Collegedale pilots fly aid to hurricane victims
In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the Collegedale Airport community stepped up to provide critical relief efforts to Asheville, North Carolina. A group of dedicated pilots, led by Mayor Morty Lloyd, flew several missions, transporting essential supplies to hard-hit areas in North Carolina and Tennessee.
In the initial relief effort on Oct. 1, Lloyd joined Tom Bowen and Alan Robertson in piloting three aircraft into Asheville, which had been greatly affected by the hurricane. The team faced challenging conditions due to fog and low-lying clouds, according to Lloyd. But with the
assistance of air traffic control, the pilots successfully navigated the mountains and landed at the Asheville airport.
“[In] a lot of the communities that were affected, there [are] a lot of outlying areas that did not have access”
Ryan Byford, director of airport operations at the Collegedale Airport, said the pilots had a significant impact on areas devastated by the hurricane.
“[In] a lot of the communities that were affected, there [are] a lot of outlying areas that did not have access,” he said in an interview with the Accent.
“Roads were closed; the only
way in was through air - helicopters and stuff like that.
“So, what we did is try to expedite some of these deliveries that were collected at The Commons over to those areas where they were off-loaded, put in helicopters and flown to very remote places in western North Carolina,” he continued. “It helped make a very big [difference] for those communities that were less fortunate than we were.”
The Commons served as the collection site for Collegedale’s Disaster Relief Operations, according to a press release from Bridgett Raper, communications strategist for the Small Cities Coalition of Hamilton County.
“The City of Collegedale and
423 Night Market moves to Hulsey parking lot
Eva Resz Reporter
423 Night Market, traditionally held in the Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventist parking lot, successfully relocated to the Hulsey parking lot this year. Hosted by Student Association (SA) on Oct. 5, the event attracted students, community members and staff.
With 82 vendors, the 423 Night Market surpassed last year's record of 60, making it the largest market to date, according to Edvan Benitez
SA president and senior theology major.
With 82 vendors, the 423 Night Market surpassed last year's record of 60, making it the largest market to date
Benitez was in charge of coordinating 423 Night Market.
“The church had all their events going on that weekend that they had booked way in advance,” Benitez said. “That’s why we needed to make that
change. I followed [the] recommendations of my sponsors and the advice of AV and plant services.”
Due to the location change, the vendors had limited access to drop off their supplies at the Hulsey parking lot while the rest of the attendees had to park at the church, the Village Market and the Iles Physical Education Center.
“I like both this year’s and last year’s locations, but for different reasons. Last year’s felt more cohesive and leveled, while this year’s was
the City of East Ridge greatly appreciate the continued efforts and support as they gather supplies for the victims and families impacted by Hurricane Helene,” the press release stated.
In an email to the Accent, Lloyd explained that with countless other aircraft from across the country delivering aid, air traffic controllers worked tirelessly to manage the influx of planes and ensure the safety of all involved.
“The ground controllers held a Delta Air Lines flight in place, so that the cavalcade of general aviation aircraft could taxi to the ramp to unload,” Lloyd stated in the email. “I was immediately marshaled to a parking spot and shut my plane down.”
“The ground controllers held a Delta Air Lines flight in place, so that the cavalcade of general aviation aircraft could taxi to the ramp to unload”
Once on the ground, Lloyd was approached by a local crew member of a privately owned helicopter, who was searching for supplies to deliver.
“I began to list the various items and he said, ‘We’ll take everything that you’ve got. We discovered an isolated community on the top of a mountain that is completely cut off. I can
See PILOTS on page 3
All-Day Softball changes the game for students
Alexis Dewey News Editor
Each year, Southern Adventist University students playing softball intramurals look forward to the last Saturday night of the season, according to Troy Walker, the university’s intramurals director.
This year, however, the For the Love of the Game Softball Tournament, previously known as AllNight Softball, looked different than in years past.
For the first time in Southern’s intramural history, For the Love of the Game was held on Sunday, receiving the nickname “All-Day Softball,” according to Walker. The tournament was originally supposed to happen on Saturday, Oct. 5, rather than Sunday, Oct. 6. This change was due to the last-minute cancellation of the original tournament when the fields became too wet from rain earlier in the day.
Walker also stated that All-Night Softball could not be rescheduled to either of the next two Saturday nights, Oct. 12 and 19, due to the 423 Night Market and Latin American Club Night.
Walker further explained that it wasn’t approved to have “For the Love of the Game” on the same night as 423 Night Market because the school is not large enough to have two events happening at the same time. Additionally, some 423 student vendors may have been on a softball team and wanted
to play. Walker and Judy Sloan, dean of the School of Health and Kinesiology, made the decision together, according to Walker.
Madison Molina, junior nursing major, has played softball at Southern for the last three years.
“I love being able to play a game after a stressful day and have fun with people,” she said. “I have met some of my best friends in college from intramurals.”
In past seasons at Southern, Molina has attended For the Love of the Game.
“I love All-Night Softball,” she said. “It is one of the best events, in my opinion, that Southern offers.” Molina also played in All-Day Softball this semester.
“All-Day Softball was fine,” she said. “Definitely nothing compared to All-Night Softball, but we did what we had to do. At least we had the opportunity to play.”
Molina said that the biggest plus of having the tournament on Sunday rather than on Saturday night was that her sleep schedule was not compromised.
“[The] biggest con was the intense heat, and the environment was totally different,” she said. Many teams forfeited, and thus less people came to watch the tournament games,”
Walker said that the whole goal of intramurals is getting people to play sports and interact with each other; therefore, Sunday was a better option
Emma Rodriguez Collegedale News Editor
Volunteers load a plane with supplies to take to those affected by Hurrican Helene (Photo courtesy of Jason Allin)
Micah Leonor and Jeremiah Domingo playing at 423 night for the Battle with the Bands. (Photo by Elias Zabala
Southern holds employee town hall meeting
Anaya Parker Reporter
Southern Adventist University held its employee town hall on Thursday, Oct. 10, when administration presented the information discussed at Southern’s Board of Trustees meeting the previous weekend.
Southern President Ken Shawbegan by emphasizing his desire for faculty to know Southern’s mission statement: “Grounded in Jesus Christ and dedicated to the beliefs of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, we equip students to embrace biblical truth, embody academic professional excellence, and pursue Spirit-filled lives of service.” Shaw also said Southern has started the process of creating a new, shorter mission statement.
The following statements and statistics were presented at the meeting:
Financial Administration Report
Tom Verrill, senior vice president of Financial Administration, provided a detailed financial report about the concluding fiscal year. Southern’s undesignated cash reserve increased by $2.5 million, while account receivables stayed about the same. Long-term debt grew by $3.9 million, the endowment increased by $7 million and total assets increased by $23.3 million, for an operating gain of $430,000 and an overall gain of $18.3 million, according to Verrill.
“We are thankful that in the last two years that has gone up,” said Verrill. “Our operations are currently tracking ahead of our budget, which is a $500,000 gain for our budget.”
The increase in debt is due partially to new campus housing, but Verrill assured that this increase is well within the acceptable amounts for an institution of Southern’s size. The gross revenue for tuition has been flat for the last 10 years but has recently gone up, alleviating stress off the operating budget, according to Verrill.
spacious and open,” Tiffany Mogaka, sophomore theology major, said. “It definitely felt less crowded this year, but that could’ve been because I was overwhelmed by the last year being my first 423 night. Overall I’m grateful for the experience and look forward to another one next year!”
“I usually don’t ask for an applause, but I think we can thank God for what He has done,” said Verrill.
Achievements Shaw recounted Southern's recent significant achievements:
Southern has 3,229 enrolled students (2,929 undergraduate and 300 graduate students), 74 more than last school year. The undergraduate class is the largest for Southern, with the 2024 freshman class being the second largest in Southern’s history, according to Shaw.
During the meeting, Shaw also discussed enlarging campus housing. Southern has built 26 mountain cottages and has space for an additional 26. Another goal from Shaw is to raise regional ranking with US News Best Colleges. This year, Southern has risen from the top 48% to 30%; the goal is 25% by 2025.
Advances and improvements in the nursing department have taken place this year. Each nursing student who receives their license is required to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), according to Nurse Journal. Southern had a 100% first-time pass rate for the NCLEX from the May 2024 cohort, according to Shaw. The national average for a first-time passing rate is 87%, according to the University of Knoxville. A new nursing simulation lab was added in Miller Hall.
The new bachelor of science in engineering program for computer, electrical and mechanical concentrations has experienced rapid growth. The four-year enrollment goal was hit in two years, according to Shaw.
He highlighted competitions and achievements such as Southern’s Enactus participation in their international competition.
Southern’s growing endowment has increased by nearly $20 million since 2019, according to Shaw. This is restricted money that can be used only for certain
According to Benitez, many attendees responded positively to the new location.
“A lot of people came to me after the event and told me that they like this location a little better because it has more of this natural flea market environment,” Benitez said.
This year’s market featured several attractions, including the first-ever Battle of the Bands, with student lead groups UMAMI, The KIDZ* and
purposes. However, according to Shaw, the interest from this endowment will benefit students, such as scholarships.
“Only one other institution has a significant amount over what we’ve got,” said Shaw.
Shaw announced that a historical comb, found on an archeological dig with Southern students, will be coming to Lynn H. Wood Archeological Museum on January 26, 2025.
Additionally, Shaw said that service and volunteer work at Southern was significant last school year, with 5,748 service hours contributed, 43 local organizations served, 1,351 volunteers served and an equivalent of $172,053 of financial impact.
The new business building, Ruth McKee School of Business, is estimated to be finished in the Fall of 2026, according to Shaw. The square footage was necessary to provide additional seating. It went from 42,740 square feet to 53,719. However, Shaw said that the project is still
The Backyardigans competing.
According to Benitez, the vendors included thrift shops, sweet treats and handcrafted goods. SA provides vendors with $50 to cover some of the expenses to encourage students to participate.
Alfredo Trevedan, senior accounting major, shared his experience as a vendor at 423 Night Market.
“The location made it a little difficult because of the one-
projected to stay within $20 million dollars.
“We felt pretty comfortable that we could stay within the $20 million,” said Shaw.
Academic Report
Bob Young, senior vice president of Academic Administration, presented the academic report. He talked about Southern’s programmatic accrediting agencies, several of which will end their terms in 2025 and 2026. Retention rates were also compared to those of the Southeast Regions, with Southern doing well in first-year retention and sixyear graduation rates.
The targets are 80% for first-tosecond-year retention, 90% for second-to-third-year retention, 40% for four-year overall graduation rate and 55% for six-year overall retention rate. According to Young, all of these numbers are currently being met.
“Our first-year retention is quite good, but that doesn’t mean we aren’t working to improve it,” Young
way street, and it caused a little congestion. The grass was also still wet, so I had to be careful of not putting things directly on the grass, but beyond that, the setup process was very straightforward” he said. “It was very crowded, but that’s usually how 423 Night Market is. There wasn’t a lot of light where the electricity booths were, but the stage was bigger for the bands, so that was a huge plus.”
“I think that it is important
said. “We are continuing to work to increase our overall six-year graduation rate.”
Academic Master Planning –2024-2025 Academic Year
According to Young, Southern is looking into new academic programs in order to increase enrollment. The Bachelor of Science in Engineering was launched in Fall 2023 and has reached its four-year goal in two years. A Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, an associate degree in audiology/speech pathology, technical/trade programs and others are being evaluated to add to Southern’s offered degrees. One area that needs enhancement is the graduate program, according to Young. Methods to advance this include emphasizing in-person events, renewing marketing materials and making personnel changes. Digital and traditional marketing and recruitment strategies for the Adult Degree Completion program continue.
for us to continue hosting this event,” Benitez said. He believes the event provides students with an opportunity to start their own businesses and gives others a platform to help grow their audience.
Mogaka said, “I would love to say that my favorite part about the evening was a combination of the ambient music, bustling crowd, delicious food, and fun thrifts, but none of it would’ve been as exciting without my friends!”
Shelly Trinidad, Halley Dugaduga, and Jaren Vitangcol, singing with their band.
(Photo by Elias Zabala)
Robert Young presents for Southern's employee town hall.
(Photo by Hannah Johnson)
Shop today. Change lives tomorrow.
have everything in their hands in 30 minutes,’” Lloyd recalled. “We began to unload my aircraft as quickly as possible and placed everything on his helicopter.”
In the following days, the Collegedale Airport team continued to fly relief missions to North Carolina, focusing on particularly hard-hit areas.
With the help of a larger aircraft, they were able to transport significantly more supplies per flight, ensuring that more people could receive the assistance they needed.
“I called Taylor Newman of Crystal Air, who was instrumental in making this happen,” Lloyd stated. “He helped coordinate and fly five additional flights with a much larger aircraft (a Pil-
atus PC-12) capable of carrying 2,600 pounds of cargo. I accompanied him on one of those flights into the Avery County airport and was impressed by the logistical operations at that airport. As quickly as aircraft were unloaded, there was a line of trucks and volunteers ready to deliver relief.”
Lloyd expressed immense pride in the Collegedale community for its unwavering support and generosity.
“Ryan Byford, the Collegedale Airport manager, and others helped bring the relief from The Commons and load it onto the aircraft,” he stated. “As quickly as the aircraft was loaded, it went. These flights were made possible through several generous donors who paid for the fuel. It was wonderful to see the difference that the Collegedale Airport made for so many. Because
(Photo
of it, we operated that week with great efficiency and likely saved many lives.”
"It was wonderful to see the difference that the Collegedale Airport made for so many."
Lloyd said he is proud of the Collegedale community for the way residents responded to the need.
“We led the Chattanooga community in the collection and distribution of needed relief,” he stated. “ ... I am touched by how many Collegedale residents and fellow community members helped provide 33 tons of goods to make a difference for so many in crisis. It was truly our community responding in love.”
SOFTBALL
continued from page 1
than canceling the event.
“I even had some players come and thank me for having it rather than scratching it altogether,” he said. “We had a bunch of forfeits; way more than we would have if we had done it on a Saturday night. We started at 10 a.m. on Sunday morning, and out of the first 12 games, we probably had three of them actually happen.”
"I think just because all-night is just so popular and so ingrained in Southern, so traditional, that doing it allday just is not as fun.”
Walker said one pro of AllDay Softball was having a better sleep schedule. However, for him, “There are no pros that would outweigh the cons, in my opinion. You would think a daytime tournament would be good and positive, but I think just because all-night is just so popular and so ingrained in Southern, so traditional, that doing it allday just is not as fun.”
“I didn’t like it,” said Maddie Smith, sophomore health, physical education and recreation major, who played on a softball team and was an umpire. “It’s worse for the refs, too. It’s so hot.”
Walker said that he would like a better rain plan in place in the future in case they need to reschedule.
Student entrepreneur launches a natural skincare line
Alissa Flores Reporter
For Elyse Baltodano, junior business administration and public relations major at Southern Adventist University, launching a skincare and cosmetics line isn’t just the start of a new business, but the realization of a dream she’s nurtured for years. Driven by her passion for sharing natural and clean skincare, Baltodano said she set out to create a brand that captures a woman’s natural elegance and simple beauty.
Baltodano’s interest in skincare and cosmetics developed at a young age when she often found herself admiring the beauty products and DIY soap kits belonging to her older sister, Elani Baltodano. Later, she received her own lip balm kit, which sparked an experimentation phase in which she made her own products by following YouTube tutorials.
Her interests were always deeply involved with beauty and fashion. To her, it was natural; it was girlhood. Now, with her brand, Claribella Beauty, she is trying to make that dream a reality by offering carefully sourced, all-natural products.
“I was really into science and chemistry, or just beauty in general,” Baltodano said in an interview with the Accent. Yet, simply making these products at her home wasn’t enough. “All throughout my life, I always knew that I wanted to start my own business,” she said.
At 15, shortly after moving to Cleveland, Tenn., from Naples, Florida, Baltodano began making her first official products. After researching different ingredients, benefits, creation
processes and applications, she started her first brand, Freckles and Sunshine, which offered only one product.
“I made a vanilla body butter, and I feel the only thing I did wrong was not marketing it well, because I didn’t know what I was doing,” Baltodano said. “I knew I wanted to make products, but I didn’t know how to go about selling those products.”
Shortly after starting, Freckles and Sunshine ceased production due to her inexperience in marketing, and she pushed the idea out of her mind for a while—until the summer of 2024. Now, at 19 and a junior in college, Baltodano feels more equipped to start a business.
“I missed making the products, and I knew what I had was good,” Baltodano said. “I kind of wanted to expand and just see what the possibilities are, so this time I decided to take a different approach.”
Since her family lineage goes back to Spain and Italy, Baltodano wanted to have some of her heritage in the name of her new brand. In Spanish and Italian, Claribella Beauty means “clear” and “beauty” combined.
Baltodano wants the brand to focus on creating natural products that allow women to feel beautiful in their natural skin and embrace femininity. She aims to boost their confidence through her products.
She created her all-natural body butter products out of interest and previous experience. This product also reflected her own personal skincare journey. Baltodano said that she had always struggled with dry and flaky skin. She created her all-natural body butter because she wanted a safe moistur-
izer that did its job, thoroughly clearing her “crocodile” skin. Her new endeavor is the lip and cheek tint.
“I just love blush and lipstick in general. You don’t really need much for [a good makeup look]. You can do something simple, like everyday makeup,” Baltodano said. Furthermore, she explained how makeup doesn’t benefit skin and the maintenance of its health in some cases, saying that it sometimes even causes more rapid skin aging. This inspired her to create makeup products with skincare benefits.
To make her products and kits, Baltodano orders the ingredients online and creates them at home, where she uses her own recipes. She melts down the solid materials, mixes them with natural oils and then sometimes adds scents and natural colorants to complete the final
product. After this, she tackles packaging and eventually marketing, which she plans to work on this fall.
One of the major challenges Baltodano faced while kick-starting her brand was finding packaging that complimented her idea of a simple and minimalistic routine to provide easy application.
“Finding packaging that actually allows that has been difficult. So far, I’ve only found one manufacturer that does that, and I have to get a quote. I’m still waiting to hear back,” Baltodano said.
Now, busy with college and student life, Baltodano is involved in Enactus, Public Relations Student Society of America, SAU News, choir and an internship at It Is Written. Her absence at Southern’s 423 Night Market, a popular event for student-led businesses to start out
and get traction, also affected her plan to advance Claribella Beauty’s business. She was unable to return to Collegedale in time to run her own booth since she was part of a group of students picked for an academic competition in Orlando, Florida. To compensate, she plans to hold pop-up booths at local Chattanooga markets and accept product ordering online through direct messaging on Instagram. In bringing Claribella Beauty to life, Baltodano isn’t just creating skincare products, but crafting a brand that reflects her lifelong passion for natural beauty and personal growth. As she navigates this endeavor, Baltodano seeks to empower women in everyday life to feel confident and embrace their elegance.
Elyse Baltodano poses for photo.
(Photo by Preston Waters)
Pilot Taylor Newman, of Crystal Air, flies supplies to those impacted by the hurricane.
(Photo sourced from City of Collegedale)
Mayor Morty Lloyd carries supplies for the victims of Hurricane Helene.
courtesy of Jason Allin)
LAC NIGHT
Actors during LAC night watch shows on TV. Saturday, October 12, 2024. (Photo by Shengzhe Zhao)
Jorge Cordero and Julena Beatriz dance during LAC Night.
Thursday October 12, 2024. (Photo by Malachi Cushion)
Gym-Masters features a routine during a portion of LAC Night. Saturday, October 12, 2024. (Photo by Malachi Cushion)
Empanadas are served at LAC night.
Saturday, October 12, 2024. (Photo by Shengzhe Zhao)
Participants of LAC Night 2024 pose for photos after the show. Saturday, October 12, 2024. (Photo by Malachi Cushion)
MENTAL HEALTH
Tools for navigating conflict and breakups
Editor’s Note: The following articles are written by counseling professionals and students from Counseling Services in partnership with the Southern
College is the time to have new experiences and opportunities for growth. Inevitably, some of the most significant challenges include getting into conflicts or breaking up with friends, roommates and romantic partners. How students deal with these situations depends on their maturity and resources. Here are some tips on what to do to get through these rough times.
As with any problem, the first step is to ask, “Why?” According to Ellie K. Vilendrer, an esteemed mediator and arbitration attorney in the field of dispute resolution, “misperceptions, strong negative emotions, or poor communication” are often the culprits for conflict with those close to you.
In these situations, identify the reason for the disagreement by asking open-ended questions such as, “What about that was important to you?” and “What are you concerned about?” By identifying the underlying issue, you can work the problem out more efficiently or avoid future disagreements.
Open and clear communication is essential in conflict resolution. Acting passively, showing aggression or avoiding the problem are surefire ways to hinder progress. Instead, try to express your feelings and concerns openly.
One method is to use “I” statements. “An I-statement focuses
on your own feelings and experiences. It does not focus on your perspective of what the other person has done or failed to do,” explains Boston University Ombuds Francine Montemurro. For example, say, “I feel upset when you don’t clean up after yourself,” instead of “You never clean up after yourself.” A simple shift in the subject can make or alleviate potential tension.
Ideally, addressing conflict in a healthy manner will lead to compromise. Both persons involved should be prepared to put their pride aside and arrive at an acceptable solution. This can mean working together to let go of certain habits that trouble the other person.
According to Kenneth W. Thomas, co-creator of the Thomas Kilmann Conflict Mode Instrument, sometimes “it might be better to concede gracefully and minimize the loss of goodwill from prolonging the argument.” When at all possible, it is best to search for a win-win situation to settle matters so that all feel happy with the results.
Sometimes, collaboration and compromise aren’t enough. Breakups are emotionally exhausting and can be handled with sympathy and regard. With these departures, it is best to give yourself the time to grieve and accept the loss of a relationship. It can also be beneficial to surround yourself with encouraging friends and involve yourself in fun and fulfilling activities. Establishing clear boundaries and following them is another important part of dealing with conflict. This may involve less contact with an ex-partner or friend or taking the time to define what continued interactions are appropriate.
Minimizing contact “will provide you both with the time and space you need to heal and evaluate how you want to interact moving forward,” according to an article from the University of Colorado at Boulder. Respecting each other’s decision to main-
tain space is the best way to end a relationship or friendship that has meaning. Difficult as it might be, coping with fights and breakups is an unavoidable part of college life. Remember, you will pull through the situation with the
right tools: communication, collaboration, compromise and respect. Every experience has the potential to help you grow and mature, but it comes down to how willing you are to make the best of it.
SPORTS
World Series matchup set and the NBA returns
Jacob Nevis Sports Editor
As the MLB season enters the World Series matchup between Aaron Judge with the New York Yankees and Shohei Ohtani with the Los Angeles Dodgers, the NBA regular season starts winding up for its triumphant return.
This season promises to be as exciting as the last, when fans watched as stars Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown and Derrick White helped capture their 18th NBA finals and first since 2008. Tatum and the Celtics will attempt to continue their dominance and become the first back-to-back champions since the 2017-2018 Golden State Warriors.
The Dallas Mavericks will try to bounce back from last sea-
son’s finals loss, with one MVP favorite, Luka Doncic, leading the charge. This offseason, the Mavericks added former Golden State Warrior Klay Thompson to help lead the team to the finals.
Out in the west, the Sacramento Kings will try to return to the playoffs after missing last season’s. Stephen Curry and the Warriors aim to add their fifth championship of the decade.
The Lakers and Clippers rely on veteran players to guide the teams to the playoffs. Veteran LeBron James and Anthony Davis will lead the Lakers, while the Clippers will be led by James Harden and Kawhi Leonard.
The Phoenix Suns hope to
continue their current success. In recent years, the Suns have played successful regular seasons, but face inevitable playoff woes. The Suns traded for three-time all-star guard Bradley Beal in the offseason, hoping the trio of Beal, Devin Booker and Kevin Durant can capture their first championship.
Rising star Anthony Edwards with the Minnesota Timberwolves hope to make it to the finals after falling to the Mavericks in the Western Conference Finals during last season.
In the east, the Milwaukee Bucks hope to win another championship since their victory in 2021. Damien Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo will aim to bring their team
back to the promised land.
Others in the east looking to continue recent successes are the Philadelphia 76ers and Joel Embiid. After trading for Timberwolves star Karl Anthony-Towns, the New York Knicks made one of the splashiest trades this offseason.
This season will include the in-season tournament, starting in November. All 30 teams have been randomly paired with four other teams from their conferences to play against each other in groups of five. All games will be counted for each team’s regular season record.
Intramural Schedule:
Wednesday
6:00 pm
- Team Crash Out v. Catching Footballs Not Feels (Men’s A)
- Kim’ Convenience v. The Longest Yard (Men’s B)
- Los Angeles Lakers v. Team King (Men’s B)
7:00 pm
- Jay Gochu v. Shannon Sharpe (Men’s B)
- Coach Saban’s Seeds v. Lego Batman (Men’s B)
- Old School v. Butkers Bros (Men’s B)
8:00 pm
- SnotPickers v. Sack Attack (Men’s A)
- Chiefs v. Nextdoor Nabors (Men’s B)
- The Mighty Chondrias v. Me And Mahomes (Men’s B)
9:00 pm
- Bomb Squad v. Jay Gochu (Men’s B)
- The Mighty Chondrias v. Illegal Interceptors (Men’s B)
- Big Backers v. Team Johnson (Men’s B)
Thursday
6:00 pm
- Kim’s Convenience v. The Longest Yard (Men’s B)
- Old School v. Shannon Sharpe (Men’s B)
- Los Angeles Lakers v. Thatcher Catchers (Men’s B)
7:00 pm
- Wranglers v. Channy Dimes (Men’s B)
- Coach Saban’s Seeds v. What A Play By Mahomes (Men’s B)
- Butker Bros v. Me And Mahomes (Men’s B)
8:00 pm
- Team King v. The Longest Yard (Men’s B)
- Chiefs v. Lego Batman (Men’s B)
- Nextdoor Nabors v. Rack Em Up (Men’s B)
9:00 pm
- Chiefs v. What A Play By Mahomes (Men’s B)
- Rack Em Up v. Lego Batman (Men’s B)
- Wranglers v. Coach Saban’s Seeds (Men’s B)
Jalen Brunson plays for the New York Knicks. (Photo sourced from the Wikimedia Commons)
(Photo sourced from Pexels)
OPINION
Reconsider soft launching this cuffing season
Allison Grundy Opinion Editor
The chill breeze and changing leaves can only mean one thing: cuffing season is finally here. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary explains that “cuffing season,” which begins in October and lasts until just after Valentine’s Day, is the time of the year when many people begin new relationships.
As people find themselves in these new relationships, the question in this age of social media is how best to share relationships online.
There are two methods: “hard launching” and then “soft launching.” In marketing, these terms describe the level of discretion a business uses for introducing new products. Similarly, in regards to relationships, the terms are used to describe how publicly one chooses to reveal their significant other on social media.
Hard launching typically involves something like posting a photo of a significant other with a heartfelt caption, tagging them in the post and openly sharing the relationship online.
Soft launching is more subtle, such as sharing a photo of a hand in the corner or pictures of their supposed significant other from behind. Posts of this nature give hints and clues about the poster’s relationship status, but they are vague and open to interpretation.
As the focus on social media shifts from sharing life updates to more performative platforms for many young people, soft launching has become more popular.
Even though soft launching
can be creative and a good option for those who want to keep details of their life private for safety reasons, the soft launch does not always come off the way people intend. Often, it can suggest a lack of commitment or uncertainty about the relationship. It can also lead to confusion among friends, resulting in assumptions that may not accurately reflect the true feelings of the relationship. Some may feel more comfortable soft launching because
they are unsure about the relationship. I would argue that if the levels of commitment are not yet established, involving the relationship in social media too early will only make things more complicated. Additionally, soft launching can unintentionally send the message that even though someone may be happy to be in a relationship, for whatever reason, they are embarrassed of who it is with.
Posting relationships on social media is not for everyone, and
no one should feel any obligation to submit themselves to the opinions of others. However, presenting a relationship online that reflects its true nature can encourage support from friends and family rather than speculation.
While soft launching might seem like a trendy way to introduce a significant other, it can lead to confusion that could be harmful to a relationship.
By embracing transparency, couples can create a stronger foundation for their relation -
ship—one that’s based on trust and open communication, rather than ambiguity and external validation. So, when both partners feel comfortable sharing their relationship online, they should do so unabashedly.
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
Rolling with faith: How I learned to trust God
Caleb Hoffman Contributor
I remember when I first learned how to skateboard. I was terrified!
My friend was teaching me how to stand on the board. As I was starting to get the hang of it, he suddenly said, “Alright, now we’re going to start moving.”
I paused for a moment, petrified. I gulped and began to move
forward, but I immediately lost balance. By God’s grace, I landed on my feet. After some trial and error over the next few weeks, I began to move more confidently on my skateboard. Now, skateboarding is one of my favorite things to do. Looking back, I can see that God used that experience to teach me something important. People often say, “Don’t be afraid, just
trust God,” but it’s not always that simple for us. Being told by others not to be afraid doesn’t necessarily suddenly make one calm and confident. God has the power to conquer fear.
Isaiah 41:10 (ESV) says, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Here, God is reminding us not only to have no fear, but He’s telling us why we should have no fear. He is faithful and trustworthy. He has split seas, moved mountains and calmed storms. If He can do such great things for others, then why not assume He will do equally great things in our lives? He can help us do well on our academics, provide for our financial needs
and anything else we may face in life.
God promises to strengthen, help and uphold us. When He says something, He holds to His word (Numbers 23:19). He helped me face my fear of skateboarding. My challenge to you is to take God at His word and trust that He will do what He says He will do. Do not fear, for He is your God.
Soft launching posts give clues about the poster’s relationship status, but they can be vague. (Photo by Allison Grundy and Samuel Guerra)
Behind the Scenes: Orchestra members’ points of view on the first concert of the season
Emily White Lifestyle Editor
On Sunday, Oct. 6, Southern’s Symphony Orchestra performed its first concert of the year. The program began with Giuseppe Verdi’s overture to La Forza del Destino, followed by Giovanni Bottesini’s Double Bass Concerto No. 2 in B minor. After a brief intermission, the orchestra played its final piece, Felix Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 3 in A minor.
The concert was highly praised, described as “gorgeous” by Instagram user @eliyah_sprenkle and “amazing” by Instagram user @ abdiel_v07. Ariana Anderson, freshman psychology major, said, “I would 100% go to another orchestra concert because it was such an amazing experience.”
However, as one might assume, the concert experience is very different as a performer.
Have you ever wondered what the musicians themselves think about their performance? Question no longer! Some delightful orchestra members and I (the timpanist) are happy to share our thoughts on the concert.
Many of us, myself included, were intrigued when we received our music for the double bass concerto because double basses don’t project sound very well. Because of this, some were concerned that we would drown out the bass soloist. The concert featured Taylor Brown, principal double bass of the Chattanooga Symphony and Opera.
Micah Norwood, second violinist, said, “I really liked listening to the performer because he was really amazing, but playing it was stressful
to try to stay on time and hear what was going on.”
Caitlin Cordero, cellist, expressed similar sentiments: “My least favorite part was the second movement of the bass concerto because I felt that we may have been too loud, and the bassist may have felt that he had to play out more, which can sometimes cause strain in tone.”
However, despite these worries, everything turned out fine at the concert. Aliyah Cox, second violinist, said, “What surprised me most was the volume of our talented double bass soloist; he was able to soar above the sound of
nearly a hundred orchestra members despite the many rehearsals that made us worry he would not be heard.”
Lyndi Brenton, first violin, said, “It was very cool to be able to see the full range of the instrument, especially since it rarely receives the spotlight. My favorite parts were the cadenzas, where the bass could really show off its richness. The harmonics [he played] were also very beautiful.” ‘
A final thought about the bass concerto comes from Soren Pang, second violinist: “[It] was
nice, but the second movement was really slow, which made me sleepy.”
Most people I know in the orchestra were excited to start the year with the Mendelssohn symphony.
As the timpanist, my favorite part was the brisk second movement, when I was able to hit the drums quickly and loudly, something that every percussionist looks forward to.
However, many orchestra members had tricky, rapid passages in that movement that they spent hours agonizing over. Cordero said, “I felt like my [cello] bow and my brain required all of my energy in
order to stay in sync.” Stay in sync we did, thanks to our wonderful conductor, Mrs. Cadwallader.
The Mendelssohn symphony finished with a joyful, exhilarating allegro maestoso assai at the end of the fourth movement, a fantastic conclusion to our first concert of the year.
Eric Marsollier, concertmaster, said, “In the finale of the fourth movement, I couldn’t help but take a glance at everyone in the strings, and they were beaming with delight, so as we finished, many caught my eye and my smile and couldn’t help but grin.”
SOCIAL
• Within the nine words presented are three groups of three that share a theme. (Ex. Characteristics of a Bear: PAW, CLAW, FUR)
• Identify the 3 groups. There is only one solution!
Southern Adventist University Symphony Orchestra poses for a group photo. (Photo by Andrew Boggess)
makenna.elyse a farewell to summer
Photo Credit: Connor Collins
b.elyse.ima loving this little life
Photo Credit: Aly Lopes
Makenna Lunde Elyse Baltodano M E
thealexisdewey sweet lil life
Photo Credit: Alexis Dewey
Alexis Dewey A
lesieli_ no es vida de rico pero se pasa bien rico Photo Credit: Lesieli Savelio
ennovymichelle alpaca !
Photo Credit: Aiden Forbes Lily Mutai L
CHATTER
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Faculty Development @ Presidential Banquet Room
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Student Association: Smile Initiative
9:00 am - 12:00 pm Anxiety Symposium (a Reynold’s Chair Event, by the University Counseling Center and Psychology Department, focused on anxiety)
• @ The Grid
• 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm School of Business Alumni Luncheon @ Presidential Banquet Room
• 6:30 pm Vespers: Fall Week of Worship @ Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists
6:53 pm Sunset
8:30 pm Vespers: Fall Week of Worship @ Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists
9:00 am Southern Shuffle
Nothing Scheduled
Adventist Intercollegiate Association Conference: October 24 – 27, 2024
Alumni Homecoming: October 24 –27, 2024
• 11:00 am Convocation: Adventist Heritage, Theodore Levterov @ Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists
• 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm Student Association: Supper on the Promenade (Free) @ Bietz Center for Student Life
• 7:30 pm Recital: General #2 @ Ackerman Auditorium
Weekly Birthdays
11:45 am Merge Worship @ Collegedale Academy Elementary Gym
11:45 am Renewal @ Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists
4:00 pm Concert: Die Meistersinger Reunion (conducted by Dr. Marvin Robertson, former Dean of the School of Music, and longtime Die Meistersinger conductor) @ Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists
• 8:30 pm - 10:30 pm Bietz Center for Student Life Open
• 7:30 pm Recital: General #3
MASTER’S DEGREE IN BUSINESS
Business With a Biblical Perspective
Southern’s Master of Business Administration degree helps you acquire the skills you need to be successful in today’s workforce—based on the biblical principles of honesty, integrity, and high ethical standards.
It’s convenient
All classes are online. Full- and part-time tracks are available, and the MBA can be completed in as little as one year. With careful planning, you can complete a bachelor’s degree AND a master’s degree in five years!
It’s affordable
Southern’s competitively priced program is a valuable investment in your future
Prep for CPA Review. Students with an MBA Accounting emphasis may take the Wiley CPAexcel review courses for six of their 12 elective hours.
Answers to Links: Southern Village Houses: Birch, Dogwood, Poplar On the California Flag: Bear, Grass, Red Star Constellation Animals: Ram, Centaur, Eagle