Vol. 79 Issue 10

Mental Health | 7

Opinion | 8

Religion | 8

Lifestyle | 9

Strategies to study smart and preserve mental health

Why transgender participation in women's sports isn't fair

Humility: The virtue of forgetfulness

Roald Dahl's legacy lives on in four new Netflix short films

November 29, 2023 Collegedale, Tennessee

Southern Accent

Vol. 79 Issue 10

The student voice since 1926

Southern alum takes helm at new Seventh-day Adventist film studio

'People want to be known': Award-winning journalist speaks on campus Marian Polanco Reporter

Hope Channel International's new film studio, Hope Studios, is creating a movie about the early Advent Movement called "The Hopeful."

Hope Studios was established in 2022. (Photo courtesy of source)

Kevin Christenson, a Southern alum, is head of the recently established Hope Studios. (Photo courtesy of source)

Emma Boughman Reporter

graduating and how Southern kickstarted that journey.

Kevin Christenson, a Southern Adventist University alumnus, is now head of Hope Studios, a recently established cinematic department under Hope Channel International (HCI). He and his team are currently working on a film documenting the start of the Seventh-day Adventist Church titled “The Hopeful.”

In a phone interview with the Accent, Christenson shared his personal story — how he has progressed through Hollywood and the film industry since

"When I was at Southern, I was studying business by day, but I was doing creative stuff by night."

just production management.

Since graduating in 2016, he has visited the School of Visual Art and Design (SVAD) and spoken at some of its events.

“When I was at Southern, I was studying business by day, but I was doing creative stuff by night,” Christenson said.

During his freshman year, he started Studio 4109, a student production similar to Saturday Night Live. The show grew to have a live studio audience of about 1,000 people. It had several different guest stars, including Anthem Lights and a member of Pentatonix. It also showcased other features such

While attending Southern, Christenson received a bachelor’s degree in international business management and a bachelor’s in international studies with an emphasis in Spanish. He said how his career has often focused on the business side of film, not

Newly found document sheds light on Adventism's origins Emma Rodriguez Reporter A newly discovered 179-yearold document is shedding light on the early days of the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church. The document, which was discovered by Southern Adventist University alumnus Michael Campbell, is the very first issue of “The Hope of Israel,” a Millerite periodical printed on July 19, 1844, and edited by Joseph Turner and John Pearson Jr. Millerites were followers of the well-known Baptist preacher William Miller and believed Jesus would return to Earth in 1844. The Millerite Movement ignited the formation of the SDA Church.

Campbell, who is the director of Archives, Statistics and Research for the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists, discovered the document during the Women in Adventist History convention that took place in October at Washington Adventist University while looking through the university’s heritage collection.

In an email to the Accent, Campbell wrote that the discovery of this document is significant for multiple reasons. First, it provides a more specific date for the launch of “The Hope of

Israel,” which until now had only been estimated.

"This is a crucial document for Adventist historians," Campbell wrote. "Until now, we could only guess as to when ‘The Hope of Israel’ began. Now we know it specifically began in the summer of 1844 at a crucial time with a group of Millerites, in whose circles James and Ellen White were very active."

Second, the document describes an early Millerite conference held at Megquier’s Hill in West Poland, Maine. The conference was held less than a year before Ellen Harmon would publicly share her first vision for the first time at a following conference in the same location.

Harmon, who later became Ellen White, was a co-founder of the SDA church, which teaches that the spiritual gift of prophecy was manifested in her ministry. She experienced her first vision during a prayer meeting at a neighbor's home in Portland, Maine.

According to her account, she was shown a series of panoramic scenes depicting the history of salvation, from the creation of the world to the Second Coming of Christ and the establishment of the New Jerusalem. The vision also emphasized the importance of the Advent belief in a See DOCUMENT on page 2

Emmy Award-winning journalist and National Public Radio “Morning Edition” host Michel Martin visited campus on Nov. 9 to speak with students and deliver a lecture titled “Making Sense of a Polarized World.”

Martin’s discourse with moderator David Barasoain, a wellknown podcast producer, Southern alumnus and adjunct professor, covered a wide range of topics, from journalism's roots to technology's impact on information consumption.

Martin began the lecture by stressing the need for authenticity and the human factor in storytelling, stating, “People want to be known.” She urged those in the audience pursuing a future in journalism to seek out voices that have earned the right to be heard and to question the authenticity of stories, citing an interview with an author who fabricated her experiences in foster care.

See JOURNALIST on page 2

as skits, rap videos and fake commercials. Studio 4109 was held from 2011-2016 and was Christenson’s first major experience with film as a whole.

After graduating, he started to get into the film industry in Atlanta, Georgia. He moved up in his career, starting with roles as an extra, then an actor stand-in and eventually some speaking roles. He got his first opportunity to be an executive producer, which led him to the production side of the industry.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, he started discussions with HCI. See FILM STUDIO on page 2

Collegedale News on page 5 Ooltewah company manufactures bulletproof desks Planned subdivision concerns Hamilton County residents FB hack hurts Whistle Stop's business

Student-centric upgrades transform Hulsey's Human Performance Lab Alissa Flores Staff Writer Over the past year, the Human Performance Lab, located in the Hulsey Wellness Center at Southern Adventist University, has undergone several changes.

Mike Boyd, professor in the School of Health and Kinesiology, took over leadership of the lab from Harold Mayer and Professor Heather Neal this summer. Since then, the lab has had had a big makeover.

“I gutted it, and Dr. [Rodney] Bussey and I repainted it, and then [others] came in [and] just totally cleaned. It hadn't been done since the building was built in 2009,” Boyd said. “We took a lot of stuff out. The lab actually now has room. It looks more professional. And there's space in there for student learning. Before, it was much more crowded, with not much area for people to work.”

Boyd also aims to effectively inform students about what the

lab offers in hopes of drawing in more usage.

When asked about what students can do in the lab, Boyd explained that it is a place for research to be done regarding individuals’ baseline fitness levels. The lab offers three types of tests: the V02 test, a body composition test and a resting metabolic test.

According to Boyd, the V02 test measures the volume of See LAB on page 2

Matthew Chung visits the Human Performance Lab. The lab offers three types of tests: V02, body composition and resting metabolic. Friday, November 3, 2023. (Photo by Andre Ottati)

If you would like to be a contributor, contact Amanda Blake at ablake@southern.edu

2 | Wednesday, November 29, 2023

NEWS LAB

continued from page 1 oxygen you take and use during exercise, and the body composition test evaluates different parts of the body and tells you where you are in regard to health and athleticism.

“Those three things give you a really good picture of what your body is doing during rest, as far as metabolism and during exercise,” said Boyd. “Any student can take any of the tests or all of the tests multiple times a semester for free.”

Boyd wants to focus more on getting students to use the lab.

He explained that in the past, most lab participants were members of the wellness center but not actual students.

“I will say the biggest difference from previous years is that it's going to be much more student-focused,” Boyd said.

In previous years the lab was advertised as a place for people outside of Southern to get tested, according to Boyd. Now, the retired head of the lab, Mayer, focuses on testing community members while Boyd and Neal work on testing the students.

“The lab should be a classroom kind of setting so you guys should be able to go in there and learn,” Boyd said.

He explained that this school year many classes require use of the lab. Some examples include the exercise and physiology class, the personal conditioning class and the sports and nutrition class.

Boyd said the lab helps students in these classes learn about how metabolism works in athletes.

To help make the lab more student-friendly, Boyd has hired students to work there.

“I have four techs that work down there right now, and all of them are either PT majors, health kinesiology majors, or health science majors,” he said.

“They run things, and that's how it should be.”

Boyd explained that although he runs tests and explains results, the lab is largely student-operated. Working at the lab helps students learn by interacting with real-life material and equipment, he added.

“It’s a great learning environment. It’s a science.” Boyd said.

When asked about how becoming the new director of the lab has affected his life, Boyd said, “Oh my goodness. So, I have to be in the lab at 5 o'clock … because we start testing at 6 [in the morning].

It takes about an hour to calibrate all of the machines. I get up at 4 now, whereas before I was getting up at 7.”

Boyd added that his job is different because he is now in charge of calibrating the lab’s machines every day to maintain their accuracy. With this kind of testing, accurate results are key, he said. However, Boyd has had a lot of help from peo-

ple who have worked in the lab in the past.

According to Boyd, students who visit the Human Performance Lab gain a great deal of information about themselves through their testing. He explained that it is beneficial on many levels because students can develop a baseline and gain insight into themselves, helping them move forward in their fit-

Matthew Chung walks on the treadmill in the lab. Friday, November 3, 2023. (Photo by Andre Ottati)

New Sabbath School emerges: DOCUMENT Bridging the gap between races

continued from page 1

Erin Rouse Staff Writer

soon-coming judgment and the need for personal preparation.

This document also gives insight into life before the Great Disappointment of 1844, named for Millerites’ reaction when Jesus did not return to Earth as

fession to forgiveness and restorative reconciliation.

Bujak said the birth of the Sabbath School started with conversations in coffee shops between her, Bravo-Bussey and Horton. They introduced the idea at the church’s Wednesday night prayer meeting and, from there, continued to read “Be the Bridge,” listen to relevant podcasts, and continue conversations with one another, said Bujak.

“We initiated the Sabbath School because we wanted it to be available for those who were busy during the week and who have a heart for change towards racial reconciliation,” Bravo-Bussey said, “especially change in the community.”

She said their biggest goal was to get people talking so that change could become possible.

Rebekah Bissell, a community member who attends the new Sabbath School, said she

has acknowledged that she has a [racist] ancestral history and wanted to know what she could do about it. She said she didn’t want to just feel empathy or guilt; she wanted to act but was never able to find a way to do so. She said that’s when Bujak told her about the growing Sabbath School that addressed racial issues.

“Having this class has been really helpful since now I’m starting to see what can be proactively done, and so I’m not just standing on the sidelines,” Bissell said.

Bissell went on to say that the conversations they’ve been having have been worthwhile because the spirit in the class has been truly kind.

“In another environment, you might get jumped on, but instead there’s this effort to accept the perspective of the person,” Bissell added.

criticized some journalists’ tendency to start their pursuit of a story with answers rather than exploring the “why,” resulting in biased news reporting.

discussing ways to engage with individuals who hold differing views, she emphasized the importance of finding common ground and doing activities together. Responding to a question about TikTok's reliability as a news source, Martin dismissed it, classifying it as an unreliable source and once again emphasizing the importance of assessing credibility.

Martin’s visit marked the second annual R. Lynn Sauls Lecture Series event, organized by the School of Journalism and Communication (SJC). The series was inaugurated last year when Carl Bernstein, one of the reporters who uncovered the Watergate scandal, spoke with PBS host Alison Lebovitz on campus.

Rachel Williams-Smith, dean of the SJC, shared her perspective on Martin’s conversation with Barasoain with the Accent.

She commended both individuals for their humorous approach and particularly appreciated Martin's ability to avoid political landmines while delivering essential truths.

When asked about the lecture's purpose, Williams-Smith said, “The topic, of course, was ‘Making Sense of a Polarized World’ — thoughts, feelings and per-

spectives in doing what she does, which is, in fact, making sense of a polarized world as a journalist.”

When asked how this year’s event differed from the previous year, she said: “You cannot compare it well because last year was the 50-year anniversary of Watergate. It was a major historical event,” which drew an audience of about 1,500 people. Martin attracted about 500, which organizers still consider a success.

Heidi Burke, a freshman journalism and history major, found Martin's down-to-earth and truthful approach inspiring. During the evening event, she told the Accent she aspires to present herself like Martin in her professional career.

After the lecture concluded, the Accent and SAU News asked several students and faculty for their opinions on the conversation. A common praise was Martin's unbiased wording when responding to questions.

Dennis Negrón, vice president for Student Development, applauded Martin, stating that “everything she was saying was something that could be said to both the liberal echo chambers and the conservative echo chambers.”

Lifestyle Editor Allison Grundy

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Editor-in-Chief Amanda Blake

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Religion Editor Madison Wilcox

For any questions, comments and article submission information, email the editor at ablake@southern.edu

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Photo Editor Adam De Lisser

Web Manager Meg Ermer

A new Sabbath School at the Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists addressing racial issues was founded

by Pastor Reginald Horton and Delise Bravo-Bussey a few months ago, according to Bravo-Bussey. What began as a conversation between the two has developed into a consistent Sabbath School that averages between 10 and 20 participants each Saturday, said Hannah Bujak, a community member.

During the week, members are encouraged to read an assigned chapter from “Be the Bridge,” a book written by author Latasha Morrison. They then meet most Saturdays in a room across from the church’s sanctuary.

During hour-long sessions, members cover a span of topics from lamenting and con-

JOURNALIST

continued from page 1 “Journalism existed to amplify the points and views of people paying for it,” Martin said, reflecting on the historical role of journalism and how the field has evolved into today's polarized media landscape. She

Michel Martin and David Barasoain hug at the end of their discourse.

Barasoain moderated this year's R. Lynn Sauls lecture featuring Martin.

Thursday, November 9, 2023. (Photo

by Preston Waters)

"People with power and an audience are the ones who have an effect. Leadership does matter."

Addressing the role of technology, Martin emphasized its moral neutrality, asserting that its impact depends on how it is wielded. She criticized algorithmic content delivery, which limits exposure to diverse perspectives, fostering polarization. Social media, she noted, amplifies content that provokes strong emotional reactions.

“People with power and an audience are the ones who have an effect. Leadership does matter,” Martin said.

She advocated for responsible media consumption and promoted “information hygiene” to prevent the spread of false information.

In a Q&A session with the audience, Martin addressed the issue of trust in the media, urging grace for human error. While

Southern Accent The Accent encourages readers to write articles and voice their opinions. However, the views expressed do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Accent, Southern Adventist University or the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

ness regimens by realizing which areas they should focus on.

In conclusion, Boyd advised, “It's great now that you guys are learning this stuff at your ages, early 20s, late teens. So if you can make lifestyle changes, that's what it's about, that's what it boils down to. Make lifestyle changes that are going to benefit you through the rest of your life.”

they expected, an event that would later inspire the founding of the SDA church. On an episode of Campbell’s “Adventist Heritage” podcast, he said, “They’re waiting for Christ to come on Oct. 22, 1844, hence the name ‘The Hope of Israel.’

They’re looking for Jesus to come as that metaphorical hope.”

See DOCUMENT on page 3

[Left to right] Jonathan Scriven, Nicholas P. Miller, Micheal W. Campbell, Kathy Hecht and Bradford Haas take a photo with a newly discovered document with historical ties to the founding of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. (Photo courtesy of source)

Layout Designers Anton Kannenberg Conner Bartsch

FILM STUDIO continued from page 1

Vyacheslav Demyan, who had just started working as HCI’s vice president at the time, spoke with Christenson about business models. The big question HCI faced was how to get their productions on major streaming services and accessible for more people to see.

"You've got to switch away from this media ministry model to a film financing company."

“Well, what that would look like is a complete structural change [in the] organization and the business model for it,” Christenson said.

In order to evangelize outside of the already existing Christian population, Christenson suggested that HCI start doing business like Hollywood.

The media and the structure needed to change. One major concept Christenson addressed See FILM STUDIO on page 3

Copy Editors Stefanie Green Kathy Zelidon Photographers Mila Bales Ron Cabacungan Andre Ottati Preston Waters Staff Sponsor Alva James-Johnson Circulation Manager Norelie Cabrera

3 | Wednesday, November 29, 2023

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NEWS

New university research hub hits ground running Clarissa Alberto Staff Writer The Center for Learning Innovation and Research (CLIAR) opened its doors to students and faculty at Southern Adventist University this fall semester.

Already, the center is supporting 12 research projects, surpassing its initial goal by seven, according to Matt Tolbert, director of CLIAR. The center is located on the second floor of Summerour Hall, operating Monday through Thursday from 11a.m. to 7 p.m. It aims to provide faculty and students with research tools and support them in their research projects.

According Tolbert, the center’s primary objective is to promote and facilitate faculty research activities.

“We'd like to increase the opportunity for professors to do more research than what they're currently doing,” said Tolbert. “There are some [professors] that because they have such teaching loads, they are not able to engage in research at the level that they really would like.”

The center also offers tutoring services for both undergraduate and graduate students in the research process, creating

innovative methods for student learning, says Tolbert.

In addition, CLIAR provides support for research classes from different departments on campus, such as nursing, journalism and communication, social work and computing. The center is available for all majors.

“We serve the entire campus, although we’re housed in Summerour,” Tolbert said.

CLIAR employs students as research assistants to aid students and faculty. They assist in gathering and running data, identifying literature, coding information and keeping records of discoveries.

Some student workers have also been asked to co-author papers along with faculty. This is an opportunity for “students to engage with faculty at this level,” said Tolbert.

According to Brielle Grant, senior psychobiology major, working at CLIAR has been a great preparation for her academic career since grad schools appreciate students with research backgrounds.

Grant added that before CLIAR, there weren’t many opportunities on campus to obtain experience in research, and she believes it will open doors for many students in the future.

“I think for me, it has really opened my mind to the possibility of doing research while also having a job. Watching these faculty professors conduct research … it’s inspiring,” said Jasiel Castro, a senior psychology major who works at CLIAR. Tolbert had the idea to create CLIAR when he found himself frustrated and lacking help with his personal research project.

“I was like, ‘Well, where do I get help?’ Like, teaching a full load … and then somebody said, ‘You know, what we need is a place where it cannot just help you but help anybody who wants to do research,’” said Tolbert.

After more than a year of completing all the necessary preparatory steps, the center opened its doors in August.

“It was a long process of going through and trying to make a good case that this would be a thing that Southern needed," said Tolbert.

The center supports research projects across departments, covering a variety of topics, including social workers' practice of self-care, exploring gender under-representation in nursing and the effectiveness of an interactive visual stick simulator for teaching. Tol-

bert said all the projects are ongoing, but some are close to being completed.

Although Tolbert is content with the location of the center, he hopes to relocate to a more spacious place in the future.

“Either expand, you know, knock down a wall or something, or move to a different location that's a little bit more centrally located on campus,” he said.

The Center for Learning Innovation and Research opened this fall and is already supporting 12 research projects. The center is located on the second floor of Summerour Hall. Tuesday, November 28, 2023.

(Photo by Maddie Chant)

Finding faith abroad: Q&A with former ACA student Sienna Day Staff Writer Editor’s Note: The following has been edited for length and clarity.

Last year, Kaeddie De Voyard, a junior English-TESOL major, decided to join the Adventist Colleges Abroad (ACA) program in France. In an interview with the Accent, De Voyard described her experience abroad and how it helped her not only learn the language but also grow spiritually.

Kaeddie De Voyard took skiing classes in France while studying abroad. (Photo courtesy of source)

FILM STUDIO

continued from page 2 was the different way Hollywood produces movies compared to HCI. “[Hollywood studios] don't want to be liable if something goes wrong on a set, or with a movie or a show. So they will open up a limited liability company just for that project,” Christenson said.. “ … You've got to switch away from this media ministry model to a film financing company.”

"If we're going to be evangelistic, we have to go out into all the world and preach the gospel."

In 2022, HCI established a new film production department called Hope Studios centered around the business

Why did you decide to join the ACA program?

My parents are from Haiti, so I’m Haitian. I grew up speaking Haitian Creole, which is very similar to French, so I’ve always wanted to become fluent in French. They never taught me, unfortunately, so I had to kind of handle that desire on my own.

I remember the day I saw that I could go to France. I think I saw a picture or something and it dawned on me — I can go to France and just spend a year there and study abroad. And I did it. It was the best decision for me.

So I got to go become fluent in the language, which was already a desire of mine, and then I also got to fulfill the desire to travel, which is something I think that we don't recognize we have the privilege of doing.

In what ways did your study abroad experience help you grow?

Firstly, I grew spiritually because I saw God work in mysterious ways. There were three instances where I witnessed Him — I witnessed my prayers come into reality.

During the first trimester, I lost my wallet. There was 50 euros in there, and I was freaking out when my aunt, who never sends me money, randomly sent me $50. I called her at one point; I’m like, “Hey,

model Christenson had presented years earlier, and the studio wanted him to run it. HCI saw this as an opportunity to grow closer to their goal.

“If we're going to be evangelistic, we have to go out into all the world and preach the gospel,” Christenson said.

Christenson is now the head of Hope Studios, and Demyan is the new president of HCI. They are currently working on their first major feature film called “The Hopeful.” This movie about the Advent Movement will be coming to cinemas in the spring. It is a 90-minute feature with an “Emmy Award-winning director [Kyle Portbury] and Emmy-award winning composers and a multi-Grammy Award-winning singer songwriter that wrote two original songs for the film,” Christenson explained.

“It’s an introduction of who we are to the world,” he added.

thank you so much for this money, this is a miracle.” She’s like, “Yeah, God told me to send you money. He spoke to me saying you needed it.”

When I was getting my classes for the second trimester I really wanted to take skiing. I knew it was going to be extra money, but I wanted to do it. Every trimester the school gives you some compensation to help you pay for certain things. They don’t usually do it in advance, but they ended up doing it in advance for me so that I would be able to pay for skiing classes.

Then, at a certain point, I found that wallet again. I did!

It was like March or April when I needed 50 euros. I had been searching everywhere for it, and I guess I didn’t look well enough or something.

It was really those moments that kind of kept me going in my spiritual life and really built me up. It really helped me remember who God is.

What did you learn about yourself?

I learned that fear is what stops us from doing the things that we want to do, specifically as adults. When you’re a kid, you’re just enjoying life — life’s a breeze. You don’t even conceptualize death or the worst possible consequence. You don’t think about those things. But when you’re an adult, it consumes you.

Playing volleyball tested me because I was never really a sporty person. It shook me because I had to be faced with my own embarrassment, you know? I had to fall down, get bruised up, the worst possible circumstances. I mean, I got injured twice. I’ve made mistakes in volleyball, and what I’m proud of myself for is how I kept coming back. And I probably wouldn’t have done that if it wasn’t for the people around me, the people in France and the friends I made who came from the United States to France.

"I learned that fear is what stops us from doing things that we want to do, specifically as adults."

Also, I learned how much I’m capable of. I was able to go out on my own, and I feel like just being able to go out and navigate the European world by myself or with friends was an awesome feat.

What do you think stops students from joining the ACA program?

I think as Americans, we kind of just think [about] America, but you can go and live in a completely different place. There are so many beautiful places and

many amazing people to meet and experiences to have. I feel like that was one of the biggest things I learned, too, just the world and all that it has to offer.

What was a prayer you had answered through this program?

One of the biggest prayers I had was to find out what I wanted to do with my life. And I figured it out. I declared a major officially after ACA. I’m telling you, God works. He was working last year. January to February was the most I’ve ever felt like I was so on fire for God and I was praying so much and talking to Him and focusing on Him. I realized that when I did that, everything else fell into place. So that was really cool too. That’s when I realized that I just need to focus on God. Because after I do that, then things just find a way of working out. According to His will, of course.

Do you miss living and studying in France?

There was a point in early August or September where I was crying because I missed it.

I mean, thinking about France, it’s so heartwarming. It feels like home. I kid you not, the people feel like family. The people feel like they actually care about you and they love you, and I don’t think that that’s something we should take for granted.

DOCUMENT

continued from page 2 In addition, the newly discovered document also contains content tied to historically significant happenings. For example, the back page of the periodical features an article highlighting abolitionism, which was a controversial issue at the time.

“At the last page there is what’s called ‘Astounding Statistics,’ and it’s talking about missions and missionary work and how for all these missionaries that come out, … you have all these people that have been enslaved and that the slave population is increasing at a rate of 75,000 per year,” Campbell said in the podcast episode. “So, you look at how many people are being converted through missionary work, and then they’re not keeping up with the rate of the population expansion of slavery and people taken away from access to the gospel.”

Michael Campbell, a Southern alum, recently found the very first issue of "The Hope of Israel," a Millerite publication. (Photo courtesy of source)

If you would like to be a contributor, contact Amanda Blake at ablake@southern.edu

4 | Wednesday, November 29, 2023

NEWS

Michel Martin: Making Sense of a Polarized World

President Ken Shaw gives opening remarks at the event, the second of its kind in the School of Journalism and Communication's annual R. Lynn Sauls Lecture Series. Thursday, November 9, 2023.

(Photo by Adam De Lisser)

Emmy Award-winning journalist and NPR show host Michel Martin answers questions from Southern Accent staff after her lecture. Thursday, November 9, 2023. (Photo by Preston Waters)

Martin speaks with sixth-grader Molly Hamstra after the convocation. Hamstra is a frequent listener of "Morning Edition," the National Public Radio show Martin hosts, and is considering a future career in journalism after listening to and interacting with Martin. Thursday, November 9, 2023. (Photo by Preston Waters)

David Barasoain listens to Martin on stage. Barasoain, a Southern alum and former adjunct professor, moderated Martin's discourse on making sense of a polarized world. Thursday, November 9, 2023.

(Photo by Preston Waters)

Dalton Baldwin and Aly Lopes were two of approximately 500 attendees at the event. Thursday, November 9, 2023. (Photo by Victor O'Dala)

Martin discusses the role of journalists and methods for responsible media consumption as Barasoain asks her questions. Thursday, November 9, 2023. (Photo by Preston Waters)

5 | Wednesday, November 29, 2023

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COLLEGEDALE NEWS Editor's Note: Students in the Investigative Reporting class at Southern Adventist University produced stories for this new two-page Collegedale News section as part of a national initiative to enhance community news coverage. The local effort, led by Southern's School of Journalism and Communication in conjunction with the Center for Community News (CCN) at the University of Vermont, places student journalists at the forefront of addressing the news desert crisis, a phenomenon caused by the decline of newspapers in local communities. The Accent believes local news is vital to a thriving democracy, and we remain committed to reporting about important issues, novel occurrences and interesting people in the greater Collegedale area. We will publish this special section in five issues of the newspaper this semester. To submit tips or press releases, go to https://southern-accent.org.

Ooltewah furniture company manufactures bulletproof desks, local institutions respond to rise of school shootings Elise Deschamps Staff Writer An Ooltewah-based office furniture company is in the process of manufacturing desks that also serve as ballistic, bullet-proof shields in response to the increased number of school shootings nationwide.

In 2019, Beverly Jerman, founder and CEO of AEGIS, LLC, and her husband, John, vice president of the company, were introduced to the bullet-proof desk patented by First Line Furniture.

The concept of the “First Responder Table” desk is that four of the tables in a room can go from a typical work desk to a bullet-proof shield in less than four seconds, according to AEGIS’s website. According to Beverly Jerman, while there is another bullet-proof desk on the market, there are not

Beverly Jerman, founder and CEO of AEGIS, LLC (Photo sourced from AEGIS website)

AEGIS, LLC, in Ooltewah began crafting First Response Tables, workspaces adults and students can activate into bulletproof barriers in less than four seconds, according to the company's website. (Photos sourced from AEGIS website)

any that can also withstand an AR-15, sniper rifle or grenade.

“If there is an active shooter, the teacher … rolls it in front of the door and locks the wheels,”

John Jerman, vice president of AEGIS, LLC (Photo sourced from AEGIS website)

said John Jerman. “So there’s a barrier at the door, then the kids in the back of the room hold the handles in their tables, and their tables flip, and they move into the corner of the room. … And in that corner, you can get about 25 to 30 kids behind a four-foottall, 15-foot-long ballistic shield.”

John Jerman said the desks help first responders “buy time” when there is an active shooter in a school. His wife said the company is currently working with Oak Ridge Laboratories on adding technology that alerts 911, the student resource officer (SRO) and the principal when the desks are flipped up. Additionally, once first responders arrive, they also can utilize the desks as a part of their process of finding the shooter throughout the schools.

“The protocol is supposed to be whoever is first on the scene

has to engage the shooter,” said John Jerman. “So if it's an SRO, and he has his desk, and he knows there’s an active shooter, he could flip this table and start pursuing that active shooter.”

The Jermans have been working with State Rep. John Ragan, (R-Oak Ridge), chair of the Education Committee, to help educate the legislature about the ballistic shield and what it can do.

“It’s really an alternative for them to offer something up to the state, the community, and to the schools as a way of protecting the schools, since they really can’t do anything about the Second Amendment at this point,” John Jerman said.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a pause in production and development for AEGIS. But after the Covenant

School shooting in Nashville, “everything really ramped up,” Beverly Jerman said.

The bullet-proof desks stirred some controversy among residents at Tennessee’s Special Session in August, with some critics accusing the company of trying to profit from the shooting. However, the Jermans expressed in an interview with the Accent that they are trying to help schools deal with the cost of keeping children safe.

“That’s the biggest thing with the schools,” said Beverly Jerman. “The government passed a bill and has a grant available to give [schools] 50% of what [they] need to harden [their] schools. So we’re suggesting that we help start a nonprofit to help schools with See DESKS on page 6

Planned subdivision concerns Facebook hack hurts Whistle Stop’s business Hamilton County residents Alexis Dewey Staff Writer Recently, some residents of Ooltewah have been concerned with the rapid growth their area has seen, according to a previous Accent article. Some are worried about the chance of a worsened traffic situation at Bell Mill and Hunter Roads.

Responsible growth, according to Steve Highlander, Hamilton County District Nine commissioner, would be straightening out Bell Mill Road and changing it from a two-lane to a threelane road.

Highland made his comments in response to questions about the plans for the new homes that are to be built near Bell Mill and Hunter Road.

“I’m not against growth, but I think we need to have responsible growth,” Highlander said during an interview with the Accent. He said the road widening project, although expensive, is something worth considering due to the immense traffic concerns. The cost of the project would be roughly $3 million.

As a result of the recent growth in the area, there is a need for places for people to live, said County Commissioner Jeff Eversole in an interview with the Accent. A developer plans to build over 200 new homes near Bell Mill and Hunter Road. Residents are now concerned that traffic will get worse and their living conditions will change due to the new development.

“It’s a beautiful area, and lots of people want to live here,” said Highlander.

"I’m not against growth, but I think we need to have responsible growth."

Highlander said he understands residents’ concerns about traffic and the roadways; however, he also realizes that more people are wanting to move to the area and the county needs to accommodate. Building just over 200 new homes in that area would result in several hundred new cars on the road, he said.

Eversole said the sheriff is helping conduct traffic studies on Hunter and Bell Mill road to help

solve some problems. The studies may help find ways for the road to have cut throughs to help avoid traffic concerns that are rising, said Eversole.

Mike Price, owner of MAP Engineers, said engineers are currently creating construction documents for the 204 homes that are to be built at Bell Mill road. The plan was originally 280 homes, but the planning commission recommended for it to be denied, so MAP withdrew the plan and proposed 204 homes instead, he said.

According to Price, MAP Engineers will conduct some road improvements in front of its location at Bell Mill Road, but anything beyond that is the county’s responsibility.

Lesieli Savelio News Editor In September, the Ooltewah Whistle Stop’s Facebook page was hacked, impacting the vintage-themed diner’s ability to communicate with customers.

General Manager Cassie Ball said social media has played a big part in marketing and outreach for the business, located at 5503 Main St., and the social media hack impacted those efforts.

“We had 24,000 followers on our original Facebook,” Ball said. “Our community has been amazing … with all the love and support, and then we went to zero. We’re basically starting from scratch.”

Ball said the owners created a new Facebook page for the business in October, and the new Facebook page has 2.6 thousand followers.

Compared to sales from last year around this time, current sales are much lower, she added. And more than anything, the hack and slowdown in business have affected the employees.

“If I don’t have sales coming in, my servers don’t have tips,” Ball said. “And they depend on their tips.”

According to Ball, owners of the business usually manage the social media account. She first noticed the hack when someone uploaded a post about socks on the Whistle Stop Facebook page.

See SUBDIVISION on page 6

A developer plans to build 204 new homes near Bell Mill Road, causing some local residents to worry about a potential increase in traffic.

Monday, November 27, 2023. (Photo by Adam De Lisser)

Whistle Stop's hacked Facebook account (left) and new Facebook account (right). The restaurant's account was hacked in September.

(Screenshots taken of Facebook)

If you would like to be a contributor, contact Amanda Blake at ablake@southern.edu

6 | Wednesday, November 29, 2023

COLLEGEDALE NEWS

Local Quilts of Valor chapter honors veterans Hannah Johnson Staff Writer Ooltewah’s Quilts of Valor (QOV) chapter has awarded 14 quilts to veterans in the community this month as a way to honor and thank them for their service.

According to the QOV website, the movement started in 2003 when a woman named Catherine Roberts, whose son was serving in Iraq at the time, had a dream about a soldier sitting alone, afraid and depressed.

However, after being wrapped in a quilt, the soldier’s entire demeanor changed into one full of hope. Roberts decided to start a national organization gifting quilts to veterans as a method of healing.

Judi Davis, a resident of Greenbriar Cove, an Ooltewah senior living community, and nine other local ladies gathered together and joined the QOV movement, creating a chapter in the area.

According to the organization’s newsletter, they call themselves the QOV Belles.

“I was trying to figure out what to do to help the community or

DESKS

continued from page 5 not only our product that we want to get out there but also with other measures to make schools better.”

"Prisons should be hardened; banks should be hardened; military facilities should be hardened.

Schools shouldn't be hard; they should be safe."

But the Jermans don’t think schools should be hardened.

“Prisons should be hardened; banks should be hardened; military facilities should be hardened,” said John Jerman.

“Schools shouldn't be hard; they should be safe. So what you do is you have a fence, you have locked doors, you have an alarm system, you have an SRO, you have cameras, you have all these layers of protection that

Ball said she thought it was strange and wondered: “Why is the owner posting about socks?”

When she asked the owner about the post, Ball said the owner told her the Facebook account had been hacked.

Ball said she doesn't know who hacked the account. She said the hacker went into the email address attached to the Facebook account, and the owner lost access.

Ball hopes supporters of the business will unfollow the old page and that the new page will continue to grow.

“I hope all 24,000 followers from our previous page decide to rebel against these crazy hackers and follow our new page,”she said. “And show them that whatever their motive was for doing that to a small local business [that it] is not going to prevail.”

Ooltewah's Whistle Stop is a small business located on Main St. (Photo courtesy of source)

something that would make me happy. I love to sew and this just fits right in," said Davis.

Davis said the group of ladies meet up every couple of weeks. They have been making quilts since October 2022 and awarded four quilts to residents of Morning Pointe, an assisted living community in Greenbriar Cove, in April 2023, five to veterans in Greenbriar Cove in June, eight to veterans in Morning Pointe on Veterans Day at the Collegedale Memorial Park and six to veterans living at Greenbriar Cove on Nov. 14.

The group plans to expand to other local senior living areas, such as Garden Plaza of Greenbriar Cove. The program is completely donation based and has no specific guidelines or qualifications for who receives the quilts. One quilt takes 30-40 hours and costs at leasts $100.

"I knew a veteran very well, and we square-danced together a lot.

He brought the quilt that had been given to him to the square dance, and he spread it out, and he was just so proud of it,” said Davis.

She said the QOV Belles’ mission is to honor and serve the

veterans, specifically the ones that were neglected. She said soldiers that came back from Vietnam were not acknowledged because it was a war that should have never happened.

Many people were mad at the soldiers, even though it was not their fault.

“They were spit upon and mistreated, rather than World War I or II soldiers that came back with honors. The Korean War was considered a silent war; they weren't given much recognition, but they were not necessarily frowned upon,” said Davis.

Davis believes that the QOV Belles have made a positive impact. She finds it so heartening to award something to a veteran and see tears in their eyes.

She mentioned how the majority of veterans most likely still have nightmares. Many men in battle will experience the death of another soldier next to them, and they have to sit there and wonder, 'Why God, why did you save my life?' she said.

“We are very proud to have this many veterans within our neighborhood,” said Davis.

Quilts of Valor ladies gift veterans with quilts at a Greenbriar Cove event. (Left) Gordon Leigh Chipman, Jr., served in the Navy from 1965-1970, and his rank at discharge was lieutenant. At one point, he worked for strategic missile patrols on the nuclear submarine Polaris. (Right) Jonathan Leon Fry served in the Air Force from 1971-1974, and his rank at discharge was Sergeant E-4. He worked as an avionics technician and served in South Korea for one year and in Thailand for a short time. (Photos courtesy of source)

make the school safer. You have a ballistic shield that if something happens, kids can get behind and they're protected.

So there's no simple solution.”

Local School Safety Measures In June, Tennessee’s SRO Grant Program application became available to help public schools afford to have one SRO per school, according to the program’s page on the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website. These SROs are armed law enforcement officers employed by local law enforcement entities, sheriff’s offices and police departments and are assigned to a public school within their jurisdiction.

Additionally, private schools have access to a Non-Public School Security Grant through the State of Tennessee. After applying for the grant, Collegedale Academy (CA) received $130,000 that will go towards school communication technology called an “Audio Enhancement’s EPIC speaker system,” according to Collegedale Academy Safety Coordinator Stacie Schepers. CA

also has employed an SRO that also works for the Collegedale Police Department during school breaks. CA pays a portion of the SRO’s salary with parents contributing to the cost via tuition.

In 2022, Hamilton County Schools (HCS) worked with the County Commission and the Board of Education to secure funding to have SROs in all of their schools beginning with the 2022-23 school year, according to Communication Officer Steve Doremus.

"In the meantime, this is what we do to protect our teachers and our students. We put in other layers, other processes, other things that make our schools safer."

Doremus said, “They continue to work with the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, Chattanooga Police Department and other jurisdictions across the county to collab-

oratively provide safe school environments.”

Both HCS and CA utilize a Standard Response Protocol developed by the “I Love U Guys” Foundation, with school administrators and teachers being trained in the protocol.

While having an SRO is a part of the solution to school safety, John Jerman said it is not the entire solution.

“Everybody thinks we do this, we’re done. We’ve got it figured out. No, it is a part of the solution, not the whole solution,” he said. “Not even the ballistic shield is the whole solution.

No one's gonna change the Second Amendment. So if we think that's not really going to happen, and we don't think there's going to be anything meaningful done to suppress the sale of assault weapons … then what are we going to do in the meantime? Well, this is what we do. In the meantime, this is what we do to protect our teachers and our students.

We put in other layers, other processes, other things that make our schools safer.”

SUBDIVISION

continued from page 5 “Directly in front of our property we will widen [Bell Mill Road] to a minimum of 22 feet in width,” Price said.

Price expressed that it is the county’s job to help fix the road, and, as the developer, MAP Engineers does not have the right or the funds to fix all the traffic problems in the area.

“I understand it does add to the traffic woes, but the county has the responsibility, along with the state, to try and fix those aspects that the developer cannot,” Price said.

The population in Hamilton County has been rapidly increasing, said Eversole. With the influx of new residents, Hamilton County has had an increase of population that is three times more than the national average, according to an article from the Chattanooga Times Free Press. Price said he realizes that the one thing people do not like is change, but the growth is increasing, and there is a need for homes.

7 | Wednesday, November 29, 2023

For more related news, visit our website at accent-southern.org

MENTAL HEALTH

Strategies to study smart and preserve mental health Khloe Mace Contributor Editor’s Note: The following articles are written by counseling professionals from Counseling Services in partnership with the Southern Accent.

Studying in college is important for your success, but knowing the best way to study can be tricky. Some students try to cram everything at the last minute, while others study so much that they tire themselves out mentally and physically. Figuring out a study approach that takes care of your mental health and well-being is essential for getting through college successfully. There are several ways that you can study while still caring for your mental health.

One method you can try is called the Pomodoro method. It is simple and effective. You study for 25 minutes straight without any interruptions, and then you take a five-minute break, according to a “Let’s Go to College” article. During that break, it is a good idea to drink water and have a snack to keep your body fueled. Taking a walk or stretching can also be a way to reset during the break. According to the article, balancing work and rest helps to give your brain and body the rest they need.

Another helpful tip is to plan ahead. You can do this in different ways, such as making a calendar with all your homework due dates and tests, according to a “DoSomething” article. This will keep you organized so that you can easily see what you need to study and plan for next.

You can also take note of big test dates and projects so that you

can study in advance instead of cram. Giving yourself enough time to study relieves stress and pressure. According to the article, it also lets you dive deeper into subjects and feel more confident in what you have learned.

Most importantly, know your limits. It is not healthy to push

yourself so hard that you feel like you cannot be successful.

Consider all your roles, both in school and outside of it. It can be easy to overbook yourself if you are not careful, according to the “Let’s Go to College” article.

If you have a job, make sure you have enough time to study. On

the other hand, if you study too much, you will burn yourself out and feel overwhelmed. Taking breaks to unplug, exercise and spend time with friends is important for your mental well-being, according to the article.

Being in college and juggling everything can be overwhelm-

ing, but there are great study techniques to ease your mind and keep you healthy. Remember, every little achievement is worth celebrating. Be kind to yourself and remember to take time to rest. You are learning and growing, and that is something to be proud of.

Understanding your limits is key to taking caring of your well-being while in college. Be kind to yourself. (Photo sourced from Pexels)

SPORTS

NFL midseason recap: Teams to watch Jacob Nevis Sports Editor The NFL season has been flying by with week 13 already approaching. With the NFL already past the midpoint of its regular season, some teams have been exceeding expectations while other teams have been disappointing, to say the least. This season, there are a couple of teams that are unsurprisingly at the top of their respective divisions and conferences.

Out west, a team has turned their season around after a poor start. In the AFC, the Denver Broncos, who started the

season 1-4 and lost one of those games 70-20, have turned their season around and become the hottest team in football, winning their last five games to improve their record to 6-5. The Las Vegas Raiders were the first team to fire their head coach and general manager in an attempt to salvage the season, but the team continues to see mediocre success, sitting with a record of 5-7.

The reigning Super Bowl Champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, have put together a good season with a record of 8-3, but haven’t looked as sharp as they have inthe past. The Chiefs of-

fense has struggled at different points this season. The Chiefs will look to right the ship to win a consecutive Super Bowl.

In the NFC West, the San Francisco 49ers have shown themselves to be a Super Bowl contender this season again. After a few bumps, losing three in a row, the 49ers have won their last three games to improve their record to 8-3. The 49ers should be able to win the NFC West division for the second consecutive season.

The Dallas Cowboys and Miami Dolphins this season have played very similar football.

Both teams have been able to

play very well against teams under .500 but have yet to win against a team with a winning record. Both teams are sitting at 8-3, with the Miami Dolphins leading their division, the AFC East. Each team will have to figure out how to play a good team if they want a shot at the Super Bowl.

The Cowboys are currently in second place in the NFC East, with the reigning NFC Champions sitting in first place. The Philadelphia Eagles currently have the best record in the NFL, sitting at 10-1. The Eagles will look to get revenge after losing last year’s Super Bowl.

The Philadelphia Eagles play the Washington Commanders. The Eagles have the best record in the NFL so far this season. (Photo sourced from Flickr)

Up in the NFC North and AFC North, the Detroit Lions and Baltimore Ravens lead their divisions. The Lions will look to win the NFC North for the first time ever, while the Ravens will look to continue to be led by their star defense to an AFC North title.

The NFL season will rapidly come to a close now, and teams will each be vying for respective playoff berths.

Editor’s Note: I still think my Miami Dolphins have a good shot to win the Super Bowl. We are going all the way!

8 | Wednesday, November 29, 2023

If you would like to be a contributor, contact Amanda Blake at ablake@southern.edu

OPINION Why transgender participation in women’s sports isn’t fair Alexis Dewey Opinion Editor The conversation about transgender people has been ever so present in the United States in recent years, and even more so now with bills being brought to the United States House of Representatives for consideration.

Ever since 2020, many schools have implemented strict rules and regulations restricting the ability of transgender people to compete in sports according to their gender identity, according to an article on the ESPN website. In April of this year, the House Representatives approved a piece of legislation that would keep transgender women from competing in sports designated for those who are biologically women, according to an article published in the New York Times. The vote for the bill ended with a 219203, with all Republicans voting “yes” and all the Democrats voting “no,” NBC reported. However, an administrative policy statement stated that if the bill were to hit President Joe Biden’s desk, he would veto it.

During a debate in the House about the bill, Nancy Pelosi, a democratic representative of California, stated that the bill went against the Title IX legislation by discriminating against women and girls, whether biological or not, in sports.

If the idea of allowing transgender women, who transition from men, to participate in women’s sports is considered equality, then I believe that view is skewed.

I have nothing against someone who wants to transition, anyone who identifies as a different gender, or even someone who has no gender at all. How-

ever, I also believe that men and women, at birth, are biologically different. Men have certain genetics that women do not have, and vice versa.

There is a difference in the amount and quality of muscle tissue between men and women, according to the National Library of Medicine. Biologically, men have more muscle tissue, as well as a “higher concentration of glycolytic enzymes and greater proportion of fast type muscle fibers, which may explain the disparity in strength.”

Testosterone is a hormone that gives a larger sum of lean muscle mass, according to an article published by the Sarasota Herald-Tribune. It is a sex

hormone that helps one grow and attain masculine features and characteristics. For example, testosterone helps with the deepening of the voice during puberty, facial hair growth, muscle size and more, according to an article published on the Harvard Health website. Men naturally produce more testosterone than women do. Women do produce testosterone; however, they produce far less. Most adult women have between 9-55 ng/ dL testosterone, while men have 300-1,000 ng.dL. There might be some women who produce more testosterone than some men. I believe, however, that because the majority of biologically born wom-

en have a lower chance of being as strong or athletic as a man, this puts them at a disadvantage while competing against men in sports.

When I was a child, I remember playing softball against boys my age, and they were always stronger and faster than me.

No matter how hard I practiced, they surpassed me. I knew that it was because they were boys, but that never stopped me from trying my best.

So, although women are capable of being just as athletic as men, the research provided above shows that it is not common. Therefore, I would have to disagree with allowing transgender women to play in wom-

en’s sports, especially on a competitive team. Biologically, we are different. Perhaps having their own division and league would help and make everyone more comfortable. I want the transgender community to be comfortable and able to play sports, but I also want other women, including me, to be able to comfortably play sports in a fair system.

I believe wholeheartedly that some women can be stronger than some men, but that does not change the scientific fact that biological men are naturally built differently. I do know, however, that although men are stronger, it does not make us women weak.

Dewey argues that allowing transgender women to participate in female sports is unfair due to the biological differences between males and females. (Photo sourced from Pexels)

RELIGION

Humility: The virtue of forgetfulness Dana Grakov Contributor It was nighttime, and I was walking down my friend’s driveway. I had just spent the evening like I spend every Tuesday evening — hanging out with friends over supper and Bible study. I always enjoy these occasions; however, this time something felt distinctly different. As I reflected, it occurred to me that the entire evening I had been content and carefree to an extent I had not experienced before. I was mystified.

This Tuesday had proceeded like every other Tuesday; absolutely nothing extraordinary had happened. Why then should I feel so complete and lighthearted? As I stood in the blackness, fumbling for my keys, my eyes were attracted to the only light source nearby — a string of fairy lights illuminating the deck where some friends were still gathered. I paused to admire the scene as I continued puzzling over the evening.

Then an odd realization struck me: That moment on the driveway was the first time I had been conscious of myself all evening. Until then, I had been too busy to think about myself. I had completely forgotten to wish I was the one who had made the clever comeback during our dinner conversation.

I had completely forgotten to kick myself for not offering to pick up everyone’s trash when I threw out my own. I had completely forgotten to wonder why one of my friends failed to greet me. By total accident, my existence as an ego had temporarily slipped from my mind.

Although the next few months of my life were preoccupied with the pressures of duties here on campus, I never completely forgot the strangeness of that

night. What had happened? As I attempted to process that experience, the word “humility” persistently presented itself to my mind. I could not understand why.

Most of us recognize humility as a cardinal virtue and prerequisite for Christlikeness. And yet, deep in the recesses of our minds, many of us are also uncomfortable with the idea of lowering ourselves below others and considering ourselves less significant than those around us.

So long as we are not conceited, humility may even seem unnecessary and perhaps illogical.

However, this cramped view of humility is incomplete and inaccurate. Humility is not the reverse of pride, nor is it self-abasement spawned by self-deprecating behavior that results in a constricted sense of self. Humility is self-forgetfulness produced by losing sight of our egos when we focus on something greater than ourselves.

Why portray humility as self-forgetfulness? Should not Merriam Webster’s definition of humility as “freedom from pride or arrogance” be adequate? The man we would all consider proud and arrogant is the sort of man who paints a picture and then looks over at his neighbor’s painting but cannot enjoy it because his mind is full of the perceived superiority of his own painting. By all standards, this man lacks humility.

But what about the other sort of man, who, in looking over at his neighbor’s painting, is unable to enjoy its beauty because his mind is full of the perceived inferiority of his own work? Although he would not be called hubristic, this man, too, lacks the humility to enjoy his neighbor’s work.

Consequently, it is logical to conclude that the antithesis of humility is not merely pride

but rather any manifestation of self-centeredness.

Who then can we call truly humble? It is the man who can enjoy his neighbor’s painting as thoroughly as if it were his own and in spite of his own.

In “Mere Christianity,” C.S. Lewis succinctly depicts the humble man as a person who is not “thinking about humility” and who, in fact, is not “thinking about himself at all.” This person is so completely unconcerned with his ego that he is unconscious of the need to in-

dulge in any sort of self-referential bias.

Experiencing self-forgetfulness for an evening, as I did, may be enlightening; however, a happy accident is not a lasting virtue.

So, then, the big question must be: “How does one find humility?

How do we remember to forget?”

The answer is to find someone bigger than ourselves and attempt to become like them by focusing on them.

If we are trying to “just be ourselves,” as popular wisdom dictates, it is irresponsible and im-

plausible to forget ourselves. But if we are endeavoring to be like someone else, what we do is no longer of ultimate importance.

What matters now is what they do.

And if that person happens to be all-mighty, all-knowing and all-encompassing, He is guaranteed to be big enough and able to fill us so completely that there will not be room for our egos anymore.

Simply put, the only way to solve the paradox of humility — learning to forget — is to find someone bigger than ourselves to lose ourselves in.

Humility is self-forgetfulness produced by losing sight of our egos when we focus on something greater than ourselves. (Photo sourced from Pexels)

9 | Wednesday, November 29, 2023

For more related news, visit our website at southern-accent.org

LIFESTYLE Roald Dahl’s legacy lives on in four new Netflix short films Allison Grundy Lifestyle Editor In September, Netflix released four short films directed by Wes Anderson based on stories by the beloved children’s author Roald Dahl. The films are: “Poison,” “The Swan,” “The Rat Catcher” and “The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar.”

The first three of the films listed run for 17 minutes; “Henry Sugar” is the longest at 45 minutes.

The films “Poison” and “Henry Sugar” are set in India during British Rule, while the films “The Swan” and “The Ratcatcher” take place in the English countryside.

Between the four films, some of the same actors play different characters. These parallelisms are a unifying factor throughout the films.

One well-deserved criticism of the films is the lack of female appearances. There are a few women who appear on screen, but none are major characters or have many lines. While Anderson’s work isn’t known for passing the Bechdel test (a measure of female representation in film), it’s clear that there’s no effort to include women in the stories. However, the films do address other historical social issues, such as discrimination in India during the British rule in the film “Poison. “ Anderson’s aesthetic touch is very prominent and recognizable throughout the films. The director memorably uses symmetry, witty dialogue, pops of color and vintage props to unite nearly all his films; these are no exception. The Netflix shorts are fast-paced because of their use of seemingly constant narration from the different char-

acters, as if someone is reading a story aloud. These narrations are straight from Dahl’s stories.

Another interesting part of the films is that they are set up to look like a play, with theater-like props and acting and cuts between different stages. Some of this stage-like acting includes the usage of invisible props and people coming into frame to hand items to actors. This is a characteristically Anderson-like artistic choice. Although, at the same time, these short films are created in a way that is unique, even for Anderson.

This is not the first time Anderson has reimagined the work of Roald Dahl. In 2009, Andersown directed and co-wrote the award-winning, stop-motion film “Fantastic Mr. Fox” based on the book by Dahl of the same name.

“Fantastic Mr. Fox” is a memorable film due to the warm-toned, perpetually autumn background throughout the movie and the clever scheming of the woodland creatures. Because of how well received and cherished this movie is, it seemingly paved the way for Anderson to work with more of Dahl’s writing.

I’m pleased to see Dahl’s legacy continue to live on after his death. Growing up, my mother would read his stories to me, and I fondly remember the playful sketched illustrations that unified all of Dahl’s children’s books.

Quentin Blake was Dahl’s illustrator, and they worked together for 14 years until Dahl’s death.

“The Swan” was the short film that stuck out to me the most because it was one of my favorite stories growing up. As a child, these stories were not only interesting and funny; I also recall Dahl’s writing being my first

Netflix recently released four short films based off stories by Roald Dahl. (Photo sourced from Pexels)

SOCIAL

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

Dear Kevin Dear Kevin, I’ve made a lot of guy friends this semester, and I’m grateful for it. However, lately I’ve been getting “special treatment” from some. My friends are suggesting that I’m leading them on, and after thinking about it, I think they’re right! Is it so bad to go to Vespers with someone?

Did they think those study sessions meant something? What’s wrong with sharing a meal every now and then? I like hanging out with them, but I don’t want to give them the wrong impression or make things awkward. HELP! Dear Friendly Francesca, Clear communication is important in this situation! That doesn’t necessarily mean bringing this up with each of your friends, but use your knowledge of these friendships to gauge what is appropriate. If you want to keep spending time with these friends, maybe try hanging out with them all together to make sure nobody gets the wrong idea.

introduction to more serious themes like bullying and the hard truth that not all adults are trustworthy or make wise decisions.

Although each of these four short films are peculiar in their own ways, the films are perfect for a short but thought-provoking break throughout the day.

And all four films have the appearance of a narrator, who is apparently Dahl himself, speaking from his study. This addition to the films seems to be another acknowledgment of the writer’s legacy.

Matthew Orquia from the Accent says “GET OVER IT.”

#SAUlife B

S

Braden Mann

Sophia Schwartzrock

Dear Kevin, I’ve gotten to be great friends with this one girl on campus, and we hang out a lot. Our relationship is platonic, but people mistake us as a couple.

We’re both aware of this, and it doesn’t bother her. However, I’m worried that my friendship with her is actually hurting her dating life. Any tips?

Dear Platonic Pablo, Phew! I can’t even count how many times this has happened to me. Since I have extensive experience in these types of situations, let me help you out.

When you both find yourself in a situation where you think you’re scaring off any potential crushes, you should loudly yell out that you only see her as a friend. That way, not only will her crushes know that she is available, but you will expand her dating pool.

_bradenmannn hike Photo Credit: Alexey Melnik

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Anna Mihaescu

E

Edward Backer

Do you have a question for Kevin?

Scan the QR code or click on the link in the Accent’s Instagram bio to submit your question.

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

annamihaescu hearts 4 fall break Photo Credit: Hannah Walker

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Alejandra Camacho

melissajmaguire For all my Photo Credit: Mr. Trumbull

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Nylia Bravo-Bussey

Knowing that students sometimes need a late-night meal, Kevin is offering a:

$10 Gift Card to Taco Bell DM us on Instagram with a photo of where Kevin is hiding! ma_al_ca_pi Coffee study date is a must

nyliabbussey Brock + Fall + Friends =

🎃❤

Photo Credit: Brock Wooten

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10 | Wednesday, November 29, 2023

If you would like to be a contributor, contact Amanda Blake at ablake@southern.edu

CHATTER Today — 29 54 - 30

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Weekly Birthdays

Faculty Development 12:00 p.m. @ Presidential Banquet Room SA Senate. 8:00 p.m. @ Bietz Center for Student Life

TODAY |29

Thursday — 30 • • •

60 - 45 Payday: Salary Convocation: SA Town Hall. 11:00 a.m. @ Iles PE Center Graduate Council. 3:30 p.m.

Friday ­— 1 58 - 53

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Saturday — 2 Connect. 9:00 a.m. @ Collegedale SDA Church Collegedale Church Service: Adoration.

9:00 a.m. @ Collegedale SDA Church SOAP Outdoor Church: Caving. 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. @ Wright Hall Steps Sabbath Morning Chats. 10:00 a.m. @ The Grid Merge Worship. 11:45 a.m. @ Collegedale Academy Elementary Evensong - Southern Harp Ensemble.

5:00 p.m.

Christmas Concert. 8:00 p.m. @ Iles PE Center

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66 - 47

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No Field Trips or Tours Employee Christmas Brunch. 9:30 a.m. @ Dining Hall Isaac, Fortunato, tenor. 3:00 p.m. @ Ackerman Auditorium SA Christmas Party. 7:00 p.m. @ Bietz Center for Student Life

Olivia Slabbert

Noah Wolfe

Jennifer Watkins

Frank Canizares

Friday |1

Monday |4

Leo Dewe

Collette Hannawi

Angel Beton

Lancelot Erickson

Canaan Hercules

Roy Cho

Ashley Halvorson

Sonia Hernandez

Taylor Donato

Hevanna Hippler

Dwight Marbun

Jennifer Germosen

Khloe A. Mace

Amanda McClellan

Polanco

Jennifer Pettengill

Julian Mercado

Felicia Ju

Ashley Salyer

Annette Metz

Ian Olson

Jordan Theodore

Helen Pizarro

Elaina Redden

Bri Zepeda

Katelyn Savino

Jake Rodriguez

Saturday |2

Emma Tol

Carmen Barber

J.T. Appel

Eve Tol

Benjamin Bryant

Ezekiel Galva

Angela Uribe

Anita Collins

Caleb Mohns

Tuesday |5

Ashley Hill

Celeste Joy Rogers

Malia Berry

Avana Im

Sunday |3

Andy Cvengros

Michael Milano

Diana Alarcon

Jonathan Diaz

Mel Owiti

Aaron Alfaro

Ethan Emde

Erika Peralta

Sarah Gregory

Stefanie Green

Norma Pizarro

Hasel Polanco

Katherine Harter

Grace Russell

Verenize Romero

Abby Kishihara

Thursday |30

Payday: hourly/Students Basketball Sign-ups Reminder Sunset. 5:28 p.m.

Vespers: Chaplain Joseph Khabbaz.

7:30 p.m. @ Collegedale SDA Church Afterglow. 8:45 p.m. @ Collegedale SDA Church - South Atrium

Sunday — 3

Rossy Vargas Zapata

Kelsey Bright

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66 - 50

Student Activities Announcements Sabbath Chats: Join this Saturday morning at 10:00 a.m. for breakfast and Bible study in the Bietz Center for Sabbath Chats! Sabbath Chats is a Student Association Sabbath school led by students in collaboration with professors to answer relevant questions through the Bible while providing breakfast.

Monday — 4 • • •

Tuesday — 5 58 - 36

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No Field Trips or Tours Undergraduate Council @ 3:30 p.m.

Horn Ensemble. 7:30 p.m. @ Ackerman Auditorium

59 -40

No Field Trips or Tours Tornado Siren Test

MASTER’S DEGREE IN SOCIAL WORK Facilitate Positive Change in People’s Lives

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

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

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

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

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

1.800.SOUTHERN • southern.edu/graduatestudies