University considers armed presence on campus
Accent that the university is in an exploratory phase. Southern’s Board of Trustees will discuss the topic again in October after further research.
Due to the rapid growth of the student body, Southern’s President’s Council and Board of Trustees recently launched a discussion about developing a new safety plan, according to an email from Dennis Negrón, vice president of Student Development.
The Sept. 6 email contained information about the possibility of introducing a greater armed presence on campus and included a survey to gauge students' and faculty's interest in heightened security.
Ken Shaw, university president, stated in an email to the
Assistant Chief of Police for the Collegedale Police Department (CPD) Jamie Heath said, “Just Hamilton County alone, when you talk about school threats, the Sheriff's Office has made 20-30 arrests this semester. Twenty might be a little high [but] it’s still alarming. The issue is growing across the country and in Hamilton County.”
Southern’s open campus layout also creates more vulnerability, especially with the main road running through the university, which complicates efforts to control who comes
on and off campus, according to Shawn Haas, associate director of Campus Safety.
“When we’re looking at safety planning in general, we’re always evaluating the campus and making changes or recommendations for change,” said Haas. “[For instance] it’s a little dark in some areas, so they’re upgrading the lighting.”
According to an Accent article published in September of 2023, “Cameras that scan license plates and identify car owners to determine if they have active warrants or are banned from campus have been installed at every entrance at Southern Adventist University to increase safety on campus.”
The Collegedale Police Depart-
ment (CPD) is a few minutes from the university. Officers are routinely on-site. However, Southern does not hire them.
“Collegedale officers are already frequently on your campus,” said Heath. “Whether we are working with our campus safety partners, answering calls for service, or simply parking our patrol cars and walking around, an officer is either already there or very close by.”
Heath said Collegedale is separated into four areas by the police department: North, East, South and West.
Southern is located in the South district of Collegedale, making it one of the routine locations that officers are sent to patrol each day, along with the neighborhoods
Pickleball fever: Inside Southern Adventist University's growing intramural scene
Alissa Flores Reporter
After a long wait, university intramurals are back in the game, ready to serve up some fun competition this year. With previous Accent articles publicizing the rise in intramural participation over the last two years, this coming semester is looking like it will be a smash hit, particularly for pickleball.
According to Troy Walker, director of intramural sports at Southern Adventist University, there has been a significant increase in the singles/ doubles sports on campus. Pickleball matches, as well as leisure competition on the courts, has seen exponential growth. In the spring of 2022, when the university first offered pickleball as an intramural option, its 37 teams included mens, womens and mixed doubles.
“That year there were no A and B leagues, but I think last year I broke some of it up into A and B, and this year, it’s gonna be obvious that I’ve got to offer A and B for men’s, women’s and co-ed,” Walker said. “That definitely has to happen with the pure numbers of teams.”
2023 spiked to 81, more than double the number of teams compared to the first year. He stated that the sport’s reputation of being easier to pick up and play than other racquet sports, and requiring less running, lends itself to its popularity.
Preston Waters, senior marketing major and the head of the pickleball life group, is excited about its popularity.
“I am the life group leader for pickleball and prayer, and my life group size has nearly doubled with the amount
of people who come to the Southern courts on Friday at 2:00,” said Waters.
Walker added, “This will be our third year with pickleball intramurals. We’ve done it for two years now. It’s difficult to say the specific rate, but it has grown faster than any other sport.”
Many students have enjoyed the addition of pickleball as an intramural option and have voiced their stories and appreciation for its impact on student life. Waters told his story of winning a men’s A league
championship, as well as the mixed B league with his fiancée, Alexis Dewey.
Raegan Blake, sophomore public relations major, stated that her love for pickleball was solidified when she was able to play a tournament with her brother during her first year on campus. Blake and her teammate, Anderson Mills Slade, won the women’s doubles B league championship for pickleball in 2023.
Matthew Taylor, junior mass
According to Walker, the number of pickleball teams in See
nearby. Therefore, Southern has armed officers patrolling its grounds each day, throughout the entire day.
“And we are out there for extra jobs and just walking around the campus getting to know the students and the layout and responding to calls for help,” Heath said.
Negrón said the discussion about whether the university needs to expand that armed presence has taken off more recently, “likely because several different constituencies have asked us to explore the topic: students, employees, alumni, trustees.”
Southern already hires police
Crumbleberry market closes
Alexis Dewey News Editor
On Sept. 3, 2024, Crumbleberry Market posted on its Instagram page that it is no longer operating on campus. The post stated that Southern created a new policy that will no longer allow independent businesses to compete with its food and beverage sales.
“As a result, SAU will be putting restrictions on our lease renewal, which will make it impossible for us to continue to operate the business in the way we would like.”
According to a previous article by the Accent, Crumbleberry Market is a plant-based, local and family-owned café-style restaurant started by Southern alumna Nicole Gustman. For the last several years, the market has been located in Fleming Plaza, which houses the Village Market.
Before the market was located in Fleming Plaza, it sold baked goods, cheeses and more at the Chattanooga market, as well as at surrounding eateries including Local Juice, Cashew, Nutrition World, Juice Bar, Georgia Winery and the Village Market, according to its Instagram.
Anaya Parker Reporter
Alexis Dewey News Editor
Campus safety officer, Jonathan Barker, assists students crossing the road after convocation. September 12, 2024. (Photo by Ron Cabacungan)
Andrew Sangar and Alissa Flores play pickleball.
(Photo by Elias Zabala)
See Officer on page 2
PICKLEBALL on page 2
MARKET
continued from page 1
On March 28, 2021, Crumbleberry Market posted on Instagram a photo of the counter where customers used to order, with the caption “We have loved opening our doors this past month and are excited to be expanding our hours!” This post was reflecting on the recent opening of the market in Fleming Plaza.
At the same time, Gustman continued having a booth at the Chattanooga Market on Sundays, according to Instagram, as well as her creations continuing to be sold at local grocery stores and other eateries.
Gustman shared her inspiration for Crumbleberry Market with the Accent in 2022, saying, “I love food. …I started baking at home a lot. And then, at some point, I was like, ‘Oh, maybe I could make money doing this.’ And I started by selling … some products over at the Village Market.”
Gustman also mentioned in 2022 that she was open to offering her food as a part of Southern’s meal plan. “If we can figure it out in the future, we would be interested in [offering a meal plan option],’ Gustman said, “I know it clearly is something
PICKLEBALL
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that the students are interested in us doing.”
A few Southern students decided to comment on Crumbleberry’s Instagram post.
“Crumbleberry you will always have my love,” commented Sharmaine Monreal, junior medical laboratory science major.
“On behalf of all Southern students, we miss your pumpkin muffins. We’ll be following along! I hope you guys can still be close to campus,” Ella Huffman, senior health science major, commented.
In an email to the Accent, Justin Moore, associate vice president for Financial Administration, said “While Southern appreciates the value and quality that Crumbleberry brought to our campus and surrounding community, we do not consider it appropriate to provide information about specific lease agreement details, or to comment publicly on the business operations, decisions and/or posts of tenants."
Although many questions have been left unanswered, both Moore and Gustman have decided to not speak with the Accent on this topic for the foreseeable future.
Officer
continued from page 1
officers for large events, including convocations, graduation and SonRise, according to Haas.
The university has discussed arming Campus Safety officers, but there is no official plan for that at this time, said Negrón. Before being armed, campus safety officers would need significant training and certification.
Students have mixed opinions about increased armed security.
Dalton Baldwin, a junior biology major, said “I don’t think it’s necessary, but you know the contrary is, ‘What if there is a shooting?’”
Zach Bradley, junior history major, said, “It makes me feel more secure knowing that there’s someone who could put a quick stop if there was violence.”
“It makes me feel more secure knowing that there’s someone who could put a quick stop if there was violence.”
Collegedale Academy (CA), across the street from Southern, has a designated School Resource Officer (SRO) on its campus throughout the
school year due to an agreement with the CPD, according to Heath. CA pays for the salary of its officer during the school year, and the city pays for the months outside of the academic year.
Negrón requested that the CPD submit a proposal to Southern to provide officers solely dedicated to the campus in order to provide sufficient coverage, Heath stated in an email to the Accent.
“After several discussions were had between the police department and campus safety and Dr. Negrón, the police department chose not to submit a proposal for several reasons,” Heath wrote in the email.
One reason the Collegedale Police Department is not ready to provide Southern with armed officers exclusive to campus is the logistics and costs. According to Heath, more than one officer would be required to provide sufficient coverage for the campus and property belonging to Southern.
“The cost for that kind of staffing alone would be in the hundreds of thousands of dollars,” Heath stated in the email. CA only requires one SRO due to the size of its campus, he explained further. With Southern being a larger campus, more officers are required in order to ensure
safety.
“The logistics of staffing a privately funded institution with government employees would create logistical issues from the start, mainly involving when these people would be expected to work, for how long, and who would be paying their salaries,” Heath stated.
“We can't use taxpayer money to provide police services to private entities. The only reason we were able to work out an agreement with Collegedale Academy is because CA agreed to pay the officer's salary during the ten months that the school is in session. We pay for everything else. This is so taxpayer money isn't being used to benefit a private institution.”
According to Heath, providing an SRO for a private school is a first for Collegedale and possibly the state. He said negotiations involved attorneys and the Tennessee Municipal League to ensure taxpayer dollars were not at risk.
Heath said, whether the CPD is working with Southern’s Campus Safety, answering calls or parking patrol cars and walking around, an officer is either already there or very close by to address any safety issue that may arise.
This growth has raised concerns in the intramural department that tennis might fall behind in popularity and importance.
“I don’t want to hurt tennis because of it,” Walker said. “I want to be able to maintain a solid tennis program, but I want to make room for a solid pickleball program too because I think it’s that type of sport and activity that allows people to be active and social easier than other sports.”
According to Walker, tennis intramurals have also grown and the program is seeing increased participation compared to previous years. However, with the surge of pick -
leball’s popularity, there has been a shortage of courts on campus. Walker confirmed that his department has run into court space issues, where tennis players have to wait for a court because of heavy pickleball use.
Walker continued to share that discussion of adding dedicated pickleball courts to accommodate the growing student population and intramural participation has risen.
Southern’s campus currently uses tennis courts with pickleball lines added onto them.
“From what I understand, [new courts] are still on the schedule to actually happen. It’s a matter of figuring out where they go,” Walker said. “They were originally going to all go down by the lower tennis courts. Now, they’re talking about maybe half of them down there and half of them up by the upper tennis courts.”
Walker said this news could mean fewer lines and more opportunity for the student population to enjoy paddle or racquet sports without a crowding issue.
Jordan McCullough, a long
time intramural referee, said, “I've definitely seen a lot more intermingling down on the courts when I go down there. Sometimes there are lines of people waiting to get onto a court.”
in my circle because they’re not in my department, are now [my] friends,” she said.
“Now I say ‘hi’ to those people across the campus, and we don’t always talk
about pickleball, but sometimes that’s the conversation starter, and then we talk about other things, about our lives.”
“I feel that pickleball is such a booming sport that everyone is getting involved,”
“I feel that pickleball is such a booming sport that everyone is getting involved.”
Waters said. “I love seeing students get involved with it on campus. The addition of a pickleball P.E. class is really exciting, too. The one thing Southern is missing is the actual pickleball courts. There is a need. It just needs to be filled.”
Alongside the sport’s increase in popularity, some students said it has also had an impact on their lives.
Blake shared her affection for the sport and how it has affected her regular life on campus.
“[The people in my life group], which normally aren’t
Sushi returns to the Village Market with new family partnership
Eva Resz Reporter
Southern Accent communications media production major, stated that although he personally views pickleball as the “dessert of sports,” it is what people want to play. Given its popularity, he understands why pickleball is now offered as an intramural sport.
The Village Market is once again offering vegetarian sushi, now prepared by family members of Naw Lawn Dumphya, the Village Market’s former sushi chef, who passed away last April at the age of 62. Sushi returned to Village Market shelves on July 14.
In a previous Accent article, Southern Adventist University students expressed their appreciation for Dumphya’s joyful spirit and positive attitude, as well as his sushi, which was a popular food choice on campus. Now, Dumhpya’s sister, Sang Hkun, and her son, Seng Hkun, are working with the Vil-
lage Market to provide sushi to customers again. Together, the two craft a variety of vegetarian sushi, nigiri and spring rolls.
Jackie Rose, Village Market manager, explained that extensive efforts were required to bring fresh sushi back to the market’s grab-and-go bar.
According to Rose, the Village Market offered to hire Sang and Seng Hkun to make sushi in the market’s kitchen; however they chose to stay independent.
The sushi took a few months to return because the Hkun family had to get a dedicated kitchen and license in
order to provide sushi, Rose explained.
“There were many hoops we had to jump through due to labor laws and health department regulations,” Rose said. “We explored different sources but realized they wouldn’t be as good as Lawn’s.”
Rose praised Dumhpya for always bringing fresh and handmade sushi, which is a key requirement for the Village Market. The Hkun family is using Dumhpya’s original recipes for their sushi, continuing to provide many of the same food options.
Despite not being served at
Social
Lifestyle
Sports
Colin Glenn and Austin Fuentes play singles at the new courts.
(Photo by Elias Zabala)
Managing Editor Hayden Kobza contributed to this article See SUSHI
A roll of the Village Market's returning sushi option. Thursday. September 12, 2024. (Photo by Daniel Zhao)
COLLEGEDALE NEWS
Morning Brew Co: A fresh taste of coffee in Collegedale
mer, Morning Brew Co. started as a coffee cart that catered for events and weddings.
Morning Brew Co., a coffee shop located in Cambridge Square, has quickly become a popular spot for community life in Collegedale. Opened just three months ago, owner Denis Liskevich wants the coffee shop to be more than just a place to grab your morning hot drink.
“It’s an atmosphere and space where people can come sit, enjoy a cup of coffee and catch up with friends and family,” Liskevich said.
Liskevich’s dream for Morning Brew Co. was sparked during his time as a student in Portland, Oregon, where he saw how coffee shops became places of community and connection.
“Morning Brew Co. started with a dream to create a space for friends and family to gather and share memories,” Liskevich said. “I remember all of my favorite memories either started or ended with a coffee shop, and I’ve been chasing to repeat those memories for the amazing community right here in Ooltewah/Collegedale.”
Before opening its new location in Cambridge Square this sum-
The positive response from the community at these events paved the way for the shop’s permanent location in Cambridge Square. Morning Brew Co. also ran a pop-up coffee bar at the Collegedale Commons last fall, according to a previous Accent article.
“We strive to provide high-quality specialty coffee, pastries and food for every customer above all else,” Liskevich said. The shop’s menu features a range of beverages from classic coffee and matcha to cold brew.
“Our main focus is on specialty third-wave coffee, and [we] hope to have people taste a good cup of coffee and understand what that tastes like,” Liskevich said.
In addition to its beverage offerings, Morning Brew Co. serves a variety of pastries made fresh each morning. Their offerings include chocolate croissants, danishes and scones, as well as crepes made to order.
“We always try to make everything in-house and as organic as possible,” Liskevich said.
The shop also offers seasonal
items including house-made pumpkin spice and golden hour syrups, along with apple crumble scones and pumpkin cold foam.
Southern junior nursing major, Alicia Anderson, shared her experience trying Morning Brew Co. beverages, “I think the coffee was whatever but I thought the matcha was super good and much better flavor than Starbucks or Dunkin.”
In relation to Morning Brew Co. being a potential study spot for students, she told the Accent, “The ambiance is very chic … and surprisingly there aren’t many people there whenever I go. It’s cozy because it’s small, but there are still a lot of places to sit and visit or study together.”
“I appreciated the environment that Morning Brew provided for its customers," Everest Kim, junior nursing major, said. "The ambiance was clean, spacious and tastefully decorated. As for its coffee, I think Morning Brew makes a solid iced latte. The coffee flavor is strong and their syrups are decent. However, it’s nothing to write home about; and I’m not sure it’s much better than similarly priced competi-
tors that don’t charge a whole dollar for an oat or almond milk substitution.”
For those looking for a new order at Morning Brew Co., Liskevich’s personal pick includes the dirty chai tea, which he describes as “super underrated and [a] very fall/ autumn vibe.”
According to Liskevich, Morning Brew Co. is dedicated to building relationships with local businesses and using their
products, from coffee beans to future menu items.
“We strive to build relationships with local companies and use their products in our shop,” Liskevich said.
Looking ahead, Morning Brew Co. plans to expand its pastry and food menus, as well as continue to support the community through initiatives like free coffee for first responders and other local events.
Disability support services welcomes new coordinator
Disability Support Services
(DSS) has hired a new coordinator, Jahnil Ancheta, who is bringing hope to students on campus who have disabilities.
Ancheta, a 2009 Southern graduate, stepped into the position on July 1 and plans to advocate for students on campus.
“I just want people to know that we're here to help them and to advocate for them and to serve them,” Ancheta said. “I feel very passionate about helping students succeed here at Southern.”
“I feel very passionate about helping students succeed here at Southern.”
Heidi Burke, a sophomore history major who navigates campus with a wheelchair, said she is optimistic about the impact Ancheta could have on the quality of life for disabled students on campus. Last year, Burke expressed concerns to the Accent about the lack of accessibility, mentioning a lack of elevators and ramps in many of the buildings.
Chrystelle Toledo, a freshman
elementary education major who also uses a wheelchair, said of Ancheta, “She is doing great in DSS. Things are moving and getting done, which is refreshing.”
After graduating from Southern, Ancheta worked for the Tennessee Disability Coalition in Nashville, Tennessee, partnering with Vanderbilt Children's Hospital, where she worked with individuals who suffered from brain injuries.
“I had a few different roles,” she said. “[I was a] stay-athome mom for a couple years, and then went back to work. … I put in a lot of prayer for God to open the door somewhere else, and I actually got the position here at Southern as an admissions counselor.”
When Ancheta returned to Southern as the transfer admissions counselor three years ago, she was immediately intrigued by the DSS office and the disability services coordinator position.
“I remember saying, ‘Oh my gosh. If I could have any job at Southern, that would be the job I would want,” Ancheta said. “So, three years later, God does His thing and opens the doors.”
Ancheta majored in social work during her time at
Southern, which she attributes to her love for serving people who are marginalized in society.
“I think I have a passion for advocacy in general, which is why I became a social worker,” Ancheta said.
“I think I have a passion for advocacy in general, which is why I became a social worker.”
She said she loves working at Southern, where she feels “valued not just as an employee, but as a person, as a child of God. It’s not always like that everywhere you work.”
Ancheta wants DSS to be a safe place where students can find help.
“[I want them to] feel like someone cares,” she said. “Because I truly care. I feel very called to this position.”
Students who need assistance can call DSS at 423-2362544 or email the office at dss@southern.edu. Ancheta’s office can be found on the third floor of the Bietz Center in Suite 3900.
SUSHI
continued from page 2
the Village Market for several months, sushi has retained its popularity. Previously, the Village Market sold an average of 270 sushi units per day. That number has recently increased to approximately 310 units daily, thanks to their collaboration with the Hkun family. Denisse Meza, sophomore elementary education major, said, “The sushi is a great alternative for days when I don’t want to go to the cafe. It’s simple, filling and really good.”
“The sushi is a great alternative for days when I don’t want to go to the cafe. It’s simple, filling and really good.”
Sushi has been an offering at the Village Market since 2010. The return of sushi has been a welcomed addition to its deli selection.
Preston Sturges, sophomore computer science major, said, “The sushi at the VM was the best food on campus, and I probably would have switched schools if they had stopped making it.”
OMM adds new chaplain position after depature of Student Missions director
kian’s role and the office has decided to add a new full-time chaplain position to the team.
Southern Adventist University’s Office of Ministry and Missions (OMM) began the school year with the departure of Steven Manoukian, the former Student Missions director, on Aug. 16. Manoukian is now the director of development at Andrews Adventist University.
According to Joseph Khabazz, vice president for Spiritual Life, OMM is actively interviewing new candidates to fill Manou-
Southern’s Student Missions office is a part of OMM and offers students the opportunity to participate in short-and long-term missions around the world. As director of Student Missions, Manoukian encouraged Jayden Angormas, junior theology major, to be a part of student missions in Hawaii.
Khabazz said, “We have the largest student Missions Program in the North American
Division. … We believe every major has a mission.”
“Steven has a heart for missions,” Collin Emde, junior marketing major, said. “He went out of his way to come to Familia Feliz in Bolivia to support us. Each day he either made cinnamon rolls, bread or delicious dishes to give us missionaries some rest from cooking. It was difficult to say goodbye when he left Familia Feliz, and it’s difficult to say goodbye now. We miss you, Steven.”
Manuel Gomez, a Southern alumnus, will start as the associate chaplain for worship and discipleship in early November. In this role, Gomez will oversee student mentorship, worship services and other campus activities through the OMM.
Gomez graduated from Southern with a bachelor’s degree in theology and earned his master’s from Andrews University. He is currently living in Florida and completing his doctorate in ministry with a focus on discipleship.
Khabazz said, “This new role was an administrative deci-
sion made to continue providing spiritual support for students, which is a key mission for Southern.”
Despite the staffing changes since Manoukian’s departure, Khabazz emphasized that OMM’s goal for Southern stu-
dents remains unchanged.
“We are seeking to transform lives for eternity,” he said. “We seek to help students find their identity in Jesus and use the skills they have to build His kingdom.”
Emma Rodriguez Collegedale News Editor
Emily Sokotovych pours a cold brew coffee for customer. Monday. September 16, 2024. (Photo by Preston Waters)
Eva Resz Reporters
Lilian Lelko Staff Writter
Jahnil Ancheta, Southern alumnus, started her new position on July 1. (Photo by Lillian Lelko)
DEEP SABBATH
SA Vice President, Alfredo Trevedan, leads the opening prayer. Saturday. September, 14 2024. (Photo by Ron Cabacungan).
Students gather in fellowship together during the after-service potluck. Saturday. September 14, 2024. (Photo by Ron Cabacungan)
Students from Oakwood University worship at the Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists during Deep Sabbath. Saturday. September 14, 2024. (Photo by Daniel Zhao)
SA President Edvan Benitez paints with his friends at the CK2 dining area. Saturday. September 14, 2024. (Photo by Daniel Zhao)
Southern students bond with the Oakwood students at the Deep Sabbath activity. Saturday. September, 14 2024. (Photo by Daniel Zhao)
MENTAL HEALTH
Cut the small talk: Tips for having more meaningful conversations with others
Abby Dizon Contributor
Editor’s Note: The following articles are written by counseling professionals from Counseling Services and psychology students in partnership with the Southern Accent.
College is a time for creating close friendships and forging meaningful connections. On the other hand, it is also a time of short, superficial conversations. The hectic pace of academic life often limits opportunities for genuine conversations, whether it is the rush between classes, finding a balance between work and commitments or even filling in the awkward time at social gatherings.
Although small talk has its benefits, it can also lead to suppressing true feelings, resulting in hurried and reflexive exchanges. Instead of fostering a culture of superficial communication, let us strive for an environment where genuine care and active listening are valued.
Forget about the “fake it till you make it”
I have experienced moments where I tried the “fake it till you make it” strategy and avoided delving into my feelings. Instead of expressing how I was truly struggling, I decided to keep it bottled up, despite feeling overwhelmed. I had to learn that the key to genuine conversations lies in being authentic and vulnerable. This does not mean always sharing your life story, as
it can overwhelm others, but rather expressing your true emotions and struggles.
Sharing your genuine emotions and vulnerabilities not only lightens the weight off your shoulders but also fosters a safe space for all individuals to be open and authentic.
Sometimes, trusting others enough to share your innermost thoughts encourages them to follow and share their own experiences and vulnerabilities, resulting in shared moments and challenges.
Follow-ups
Try to commit to a follow-up after engaging in a genuine
conversation where you actively listened to and recalled the key points. By referencing your past conversations, you demonstrate your genuine care and engagement in the other person. Apply your active listening skills to the follow-up conversations by referencing what was previously said. I have often experienced follow-up conversations where it felt like a repetition of questions the individual had previously asked, and I had answered. These instances serve as a reminder of the importance of active listening and connecting with others.
Ask for stories, not answers
Another tip for cultivating more meaningful conversations involves avoiding overused questions such as “How are you doing?” and “How is your weekend/ week going?” This often only results in standard answers and does not typically spark engaging discussions.
Instead, try prompts such as, “Is there something you are excited about or looking forward to this weekend?”
Doing so, you encourage others to delve into their experiences through questions that encourage storytell -
ing or reflection, leading to deeper conversations.
In a fast-paced world where small talk is a placeholder for genuine care, meaningful conversations are invaluable. When time permits, connect with others by taking time to check up on them. This will offer a sense of support that disingenuous, superficial exchanges simply cannot provide. Through meaningful conversations, we are reminded of the importance of genuinely being present for each other, making our interactions more fulfilling and authentic.
SPORTS
Summer 2024 sports come to a close
Jacob Nevis Sports Editor
With the 2024 Paris Olympics, the MLB season and the conclusion of the NBA and NHL seasons, sports fans had plenty to watch this summer.
This year saw the return of the Summer Olympics, where Team USA dominated once again. Team USA started with a bang, winning some events it had not won in quite a while.
In gymnastics, Simone Biles
helped lead the women and Team USA back to the gold medal in the team competition. Biles also became the most decorated gymnast of all time.
The U.S. women’s and men’s national basketball teams were also able to win gold once again in an exciting fashion.
Team USA tied with China for the most gold medals at 40, but the United States was able to “win” the Olympics by accumulating over 44 silvers. The final medals total for Team USA was 126.
The Summer Olympics will make their return in 2028, when Team USA gets to play at home in Los Angeles, California.
The MLB season, the only major sports league in the United States that runs during the summer, also kept sports fans occupied this summer. Teams across the league have made their push for the postseason, which will start in October.
Some exciting MLB stars included American League MVP favorite Aaron Judge
of the Yankees and National League MVP frontrunner Shohei Ohtani of the Dodgers. Ohtani will look to become the first player in MLB history to record over 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a season.
Two pitchers in each league also seek to capture the most valuable pitching award, known as the Cy Young award. Chris Sale of the Atlanta Braves hopes to add the Cy Young award to his lustrous career,
while Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal looks to do the same. Both players would become MLB Triple Crown winners, leading their respective leagues in wins, strikeouts and ERA.
The NBA and NHL seasons also came to a close, with the Boston Celtics defeating the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA finals and the Florida Panthers capturing their first Stanley Cup in the NHL.
Intramural Schedule:
Wednesday 6:00 pm
- Happy Hitter v. Bat News (Ladies)
- Glitter Gloves v. Foul Play (Ladies)
- Hitmen v. Hits And Giggles (Ladies)
7:00 pm
- Home Run Homies v. Batties (Ladies)
- Zeke’s Freaks v. Los Papis MMG (Men’s B)
- Swingerz v. Stags (Men’s A)
8:00 pm
- Pitch Perfect v. Catch Me Outside (Ladies)
- Bat-itude v. Bat To The Bone (Ladies)
- Bubble Boy Warriors v. sigma (Men’s B)
9:00 pm
- The Benchwarmers v. Lone Pairs (Men’s B)
- Geeks v. Softballers (Men’s B)
Thursday 6:00 pm
- Talge! v. Love Muffins (Men’s B)
8:00 pm
- This Is Our Colts v. Big Baller’s Club (Men’s B)
Having meaningful conversations is one way to
OPINION
Gillette 2024: The best a camporee can get?
Matthew Taylor Contributor
On Friday, Aug. 9, the main events of the International Pathfinder Camporee in Gillette, Wyoming, were concluded a day earlier than anticipated due to severe weather concerns. The program, originally intended for five nights, was shortened to three nights instead.
Although the weather defined the camporee as a negative experience for many, it is impossible to ignore the blessings that Gillette offered to tens of thousands of Pathfinders and sponsors from around the world.
I have attended the quinquennial event since the 2009 “Courage to Stand” Camporee in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. My favorite part of camporees was always the evening program, and I would even collect posters signed by the cast. In the 2019 “Chosen” Camporee, I was provided the opportunity to perform as a background extra in the production alongside Leo Aguilera. This past summer, Leo and I were cast to portray brothers Moses and Aaron in the “Believe the Promise” Camporee in its Gillette debut. This was a dream come true.
This incredible opportunity provided a unique point of view into the creation of the camporee. The cast spent the better half of the summer practicing for this performance at Andrews University, and later in Gillette. Although the hours were long and the work arduous, the cast proved their dedication each day through their support, humor and love.
Unfortunately, a lot of factors seemed to be working against the success of this production. First, high winds halted construction of the stage. Despite this setback, the directors used the time wisely to
strengthen even minor elements of the production.
Amid weather concerns, it was decided that Act 1 would be pre-recorded in case of emergency. As expected, the turbulent storms forced the first program to be canceled. In a unique silver lining, when the storm passed, the cast and crew took a group photo beneath the rainbow, which we attributed to God’s original promise.
The cast feared how this turn of events would affect the Pathfinders’ experience. However, once the storm had passed, we witnessed groups of Pathfinders cheerfully trading pins while standing in puddles and mud. Despite the negative circumstance, the attendees understood the purpose of the campo-
ree—to build community—and took advantage of this opportunity to make friends from across the world.
We returned the next day energized to perform both Act 1 and Act 2 in the same night. During the first performance, rain started to trickle on the stage and audience. However, in between acts, the rain began to fall more heavily and frigidly. To preserve the safety of the audience and cast, the performance of Act 2 was delayed.
I will readily admit that this shook my faith. I was confused why God would allow so many complications to affect a program where 70,000-plus believers had gathered in His name.
After a successful performance of Act 2 and 3, it was regretfully
announced that a more dangerous storm was brewing for Saturday evening, and the event had to finish a day early. I expected that this would dampen the cast’s spirits, but it did not. We soldiered through and managed to spend the entire night through 5 a.m. recording the performance of Act 4. While performing the final night of Act 5, we pushed through scenes and effects we had never fully rehearsed. Filled with adrenaline and emotion, we stepped through the illusionary Red Sea and into the crowd of Pathfinders. We returned to the stage and sang the finale: “Our God Will Make a Way.” I was struck with the emo-
tion of the moment. Although we had to finish a day early, we welcomed Sabbath by performing the incredible miracle of crossing the Red Sea. The point of God’s miracle was successfully displayed to tens of thousands. In the finale’s musical number, many of us in the cast were moved to tears at the sheer magnitude of accomplishing months of hard work.
At first glance, many elements could cause this camporee to be considered a failure, but a spiritual event can rarely be described with stats or numbers. God worked a miracle in the lives of those at the camporee.
RELIGION
Proverbs 3:5-6 – What it means to truly know God
Lucas Bueno Religion Editor
Proverbs 3:5-6. Some of you might already be reciting the verse in your minds right now. This is one of the most well-known and beloved verses of Scripture.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.”
Recently, during an opening devotional in my intermediate Hebrew class, we took a closer look at this verse. The profes-
sor highlighted something in the original Hebrew that made us see it in a different light and that hopefully can help you gain a deeper appreciation of this verse.
As we examined the passage in Hebrew, our professor highlighted the use of the word translated in many Bibles as “acknowledge.” The root of the Hebrew is “yada,” which is most commonly translated as “to know.”
The word “yada” is used in the Hebrew Bible to describe the intimate relationship between Adam and Eve, as well as the
close relationship that God desires to have with each person He created. This word shows the depth of connection that God wants with you. He wants to be involved in all aspects of your life—not just on Sabbaths or in daily devotions, but every day, every moment.
However, as with every relationship, both parties must contribute. If God wants to know us, we must also want to know Him.
Let’s read Proverbs 3:5-6 again, but now with a slightly different translation of the word containing the root “yada.”
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways know Him, and He will make straight your paths.”
I am not trying to argue that “acknowledge” is an inaccurate or wrong word to use in our English translations of these powerful verses. However, use of the word “know,” based the way it has been used to describe God’s relationship with His people, adds greater depth to these verses.
Verse 5 urges us to trust only in the Lord and not in ourselves, and in verse 6, we are called to
know the Lord, and by doing so, our wayward, haphazard paths will be made straight by His most powerful will and plan. Let us not just acknowledge the Lord in our lives, but let us know Him. Let us walk with Him every moment. Let us read the love letter of the Holy Scriptures He has given to us. By knowing Him, may we become more like Him each day.
By knowing Him, may our walks of life be made straight, and may our paths lead us to join with Him for life everlasting.
A storm rages above the stage at the International Camporee in Gillette. (Photo courtesy of source)
Lessons I learned from Coldplay: Underrated songs from an “overrated” band
Emily White Lifestyle Editor
It may come as a surprise to some that I, a music major, like to listen to musical genres other than classical. I enjoy my escapades into the world of contemporary music, even though I typically shun mainstream artists. However, this summer I hit a wall: I didn’t want to listen to classical music, nor was I enthused with the pop songs that Spotify recommended to me.
At the same time, my brother was preparing to play the piano for a wedding reception; one of the songs on his setlist was Coldplay’s “Yellow” from their first album, which he played in the car every morning on our way to work one week. Admittedly, I had only heard the song once or twice beforehand and had associated Coldplay with their later, more synth-heavy tunes such as “Paradise” and “Viva La Vida.”
I didn’t necessarily mind those hits, but I was convinced that the rest of Coldplay’s music would probably be as mediocre as I found their most popular songs. However, being force-fed “Yellow” for five days straight began to change my mind, and I decided I wanted to get to know this older, more pensive version of the band.
For the following two months, I listened to Coldplay’s first three albums on repeat, and I found that I actually enjoyed some of their music! Here’s a short list of songs from each album that I find myself coming back to:
“Trouble” (Parachutes)
The piano is featured prominently in this ballad, which directly follows “Yellow.” I am attracted to its wistful tone and contrite lyrics, and I enjoy the chord progression of the whole song. My favorite part is the electric guitar and piano instrumental at the very end.
“We Never Change” (Parachutes)
The acoustic-heavy instrumentals, the lilting drumset part, the minor mode, and the contemplative lyrics all make for a melancholy four minutes. Listening to the song at night amplifies its somber quality.
“Politik” (A Rush of Blood to the Head)
The intense feeling of this first track of A Rush of Blood to the Head is shockingly different from the way Coldplay presented itself in Parachutes. Written in response to 9/11, it was recorded just two days after the terrorist attacks. The song begins with a driving drumset and electric guitar; later, the atmosphere transitions, providing a hauntingly beautiful accompaniment to the lyrics, “But give me love over this.”
“A Rush of Blood to the Head” (A Rush of Blood to the Head)
The chord progression in the chorus is what caught my attention (for my music theory nerds: a: VI, IV, VI, IV, N7, VI, IV, N7, i).
Also, the way Chris Martin sings “Honey” at the beginning of every chorus is so romantic — it
#SAUlife
is one of my greatest desires to have someone speak to me like that one day.
“X&Y” (X&Y) I’ll be honest: the main melody here isn’t that striking, and neither are the lyrics. However, I find myself singing along to the chorus a lot because I like the chord progression; even though it’s simpler than others, the use of diminished chords makes it unique. The synth
string quartet at the end is also a nice touch. The most important lesson I have learned from my Coldplay experience is that just because something is mainstream doesn’t mean that it’s inherently bad (or good), whether it’s music or anything else. It’s not fair for me to label something as terrible as soon as I find out it’s popular; however, it’s more open-minded of me to try something and then form my opinion on it.
So what if my worldview is changed or my way of doing things is challenged? I shouldn’t be scared of broadening my horizons, especially if I hope to become a well-rounded person. Even though I may cringe a little bit when I review my Spotify Wrapped and find that Coldplay is inevitably on my Top 5 Artists list, the enjoyment I get from listening to their lesser-known songs compensates for my deviating from my “alternative” identity.
SOCIAL
“Just because something is mainstream doesn’t mean that it’s inherently bad, whether it’s music or anything else.” (Photo from coldplay.com)
carren242 Watch out for Jack the Ripper Squirrel Photo Credit: Sharna Ebanks
_czerny_ Photo Credit: Self
Carren Rodgers C
ebenedict_22 Churches and Cathedrals of Switzerland and Italy Photo Credit: Self
ari_tubari Field Trip on digital ! <3 Photo Credit: Sophia Ferreira
jennakalenapeters Yummy eats in downtown Chat Photo Credit: Priscille Mikala
jtcasterr Photo Credit: Nestor Amparo
Czerny Advance C
Ethan Benedict E
Jonas Caster J
Arianna Moretta A
Jenna Peters J
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Faculty Development
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