There has been one narrative that has dominated headlines across the mainstream media for over two years: #Russiagate. Starting with the infamous Steele dossier, the #Russiagate narrative has drawn the attention of Americans of all stripes. It alleged that President Donald Trump was an asset of Russian intelligence, whether directly or through kompromat, compromising material that can be used to blackmail. It was explosive, if true, alleging Russian contacts, deep state collusion and … [Read more...]
The power of empathy
Guest Writer: Emily Glassman In chapter three of Ecclesiastes, Solomon refers to seasons we encounter on earth. He speaks of “a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance.” When a friend approaches us in a season of hurting, it seems we want to help, but many of us don’t know what to say. There is quite a bit of conversation about patterns of thought when it comes to dealing with depression or negativity, much of … [Read more...]
Letter from the president
I recently convened a student forum on campus to hear directly from students about whatever issues were on your mind. Although we touched on a few other things, the majority of time was spent on LGBTQ+ matters. I was pleased that over the course of two and a half hours, we had a good discussion of where students are today, where the Church of God stands and how our AU policies inform LGBT issues. We also discussed where we might be going as a Christian community. I was disappointed … [Read more...]
Change your group mentality
Look around. Who do you surround yourself with? Are they people just like you? Do they just so happen to be involved in the same activities, enjoy doing the same things or look similar to you? It's not necessarily a bad thing to surround yourself with people who are similar to you, but it's not necessarily a good thing either. Are you welcoming and inviting to other people if you are always surrounded by a large, intimidating group? Diversity is emphasized greatly on AU's campus, but … [Read more...]
A smelly situation: My fear
Guest Writer: Elli Brooks I have many fears. For instance, I am afraid of sharks, being buried alive, dying alone, sand and most of all, outhouses. Outhouses haven’t always been a worry of mine until the summer of 2006 when I was around the age of six. Let's start from the beginning. Every summer since I can remember, my whole family would go camping on my aunt and uncle’s farm. They lived on hundreds of acres of land, and they made a campsite off their creek where we would live off … [Read more...]
The truth is controversial
This semester, the Andersonian staff has been diligent in delivering important news to the student body. We have covered a wide range of topics, finding leads and following the stories where they take us. Some have voiced their concerns over sloppy reporting or one-sided coverage, or even just a cry of “fake news.” These accusations are far from the truth, and we stand firmly beside our reporters and behind their stories. For us, the facts matter. Our stories are written fairly and … [Read more...]
The many benefits of reducing plastics
Guest Writer: Lucy Stultz Most developed countries have come to heavily depend on single-use plastic items. Water bottles, food packaging and countless other everyday objects are designed to be used once and then thrown away. However, these items will stay on Earth for centuries. According to National Geographic, “It’s unclear how long it will take for that plastic to completely biodegrade into its constituent molecules. Estimates range from 450 years to never.” Much of the plastic that … [Read more...]
We are a product of our products
We are hiding. We are shapeshifting. We are wearing a mask. So often, we, as a society, find our "comfortable" behind our screens, lurking in the virtual world and stealthily pretending to be someone we aren't. A false sense of confidence seamlessly weaves its way into the cracks of our keyboards, and the light of our screens takes over the shape of the lightbulb over our heads as our ideas suddenly seem to only come to fruition when technology is present. Is it easier to be who we … [Read more...]
Five dorm room tips for happy, healthy fish
Guest Writer: Samantha Kagey Seemingly small decisions about your water-dwelling pets can have big consequences. That’s why it’s important to carefully consider aspects of your aquarium habitat such as water temperature, tank size, decorations, filtration systems and water conditioning. Here are five tips that will help you raise happy, healthy fish: 1. Consider the type of fish you would like to acquire. Do you want cold-water or warm-water fish? The cold-water fish are those that … [Read more...]
Don’t forget your family
College is a transitory experience. For many students, college is the first shot at life on our own. It is an exciting time, free from parental guidance and still without the full weight of adulthood to bring us down. Leaving the nest can grant the illusion of a familial divorce, chests puffed out with youthful naivety and hearts brimming with an abundance of optimism. There lies ahead a lifetime, ours for the taking if we so choose to take it. These rose-colored glasses will not hold … [Read more...]