The
Southern responds to Hurricane Helene
[my] parents still don’t have power,” she said.
Hurricane Helene was reported to be one of the worst hurricanes to make landfall in the United States, according to USA Today. The devastation impacted hundreds of lives, with the death toll reaching over 225 as of Sunday, CBS News reported. The storm hit many states, including Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Virginia and Tennessee. Several students at Southern Adventist University have been affected by the disaster. Emma Boughman, a junior animation major, lives in Spartanburg, South Carolina.
“My parents and my best friend, they all lost power, and
According to Boughman, the storm caused some power lines to explode near her home, falling into the road and the water causing trees to fall on top of cars. She had not expected the storm to be so devastating or reach that deep into the mainland and was grateful that the damage was not worse.
“I think it was just a different feeling around here because that doesn’t [usually] happen,” she said.
Katie-Jane Emde, junior biology major, is from Greeneville, Tennessee, one of the towns struck by the hurricane. Emde’s family owned a historical cabin that they used for gatherings
History, Political Studies chair leaving Southern
Anaya Parker Reporter
After more than six years as a professor at Southern Adventist University, Michael Weismeyer, chair of the History and Political Studies Department, will leave at the end of the semester to join Arizona State University’s history graduate program, he said in an interview with the Accent.
During his time at Southern, Weismeyer taught a variety of classes on U.S. history, for both upper and lower divisions, according to his Linkedin page. He has taught “US history in
the colonial period, 19th century, 20th century, immigration and ethnic history, as well as European 20th century history, plus classes on US government and political economy.”
He has also been an advisor for students and the sponsor of the history club on campus.
Weismeyer said his departure was not fueled by dissatisfaction but rather personal and professional opportunities that were too compelling to pass up.
“It’s more pull factors than push factors,” he said. “I’ll be closer to family, and there’s a new opportunity for me as
with friends and family. They hosted hot dog roasts and hayrides there for church friends and school functions. Emde remembered having her class over every year for a fall day at the cabin.
“It was like a symbol of my family’s hospitality,” she said.
Unfortunately, the cabin was destroyed during the hurricane. Emde said the dam above her home broke, sending water down the river. The water gushed over the riverbank and into Emde’s family farmlands, washing over the cabin. The family expected the cabin to be damaged underwater but found it thoroughly washed away.
“You know, you always say people are more important
than places, but then you lose a place [and think], ‘Hey, that was important, too,’” Emde said.
Despite her sadness at losing a place associated with so many memories, Emde said some of her neighbors lost their primary residences or suffered much worse. She has learned of fatalities reported in Greeneville and said some people in her town are still missing.
“I definitely want to emphasize first how grateful I am that my family is, like, safe above all else,” she said.
Zach Bradley, junior history major, also lost a special family place: his grandmother’s house in Fletcher, North Carolina. She built the home with his grandfather, filling it with sentimen-
tal value for the family. After her husband passed away, the house was something she had to remember him by.
During the storm, a tree fell on the house. According to Bradley, the home is likely to be condemned. This was difficult for him since he grew up visiting that house and made many good memories there.
“There [are] memories there in that house that are now all gone,” Bradley said.
He is now having difficulty keeping up with school because he has been preparing things to send to his grandma.
“We have a trailer, and I packed it full of supplies. I went
See Helene on page 2
Southern students invited to "Taste of Southern" gala
Eva Resz Reporter
On Thursday, Oct. 3, Southern Adventist University hosted its third annual “Taste of Southern” gala at The Signal in downtown Chattanooga. Southern selected 10 students to attend the event, each representing their department.
The dinner featured a live auction and performances by Southern’s Jazz Ensemble and the gospel quartet Ernie Haase and Signature Sound, all with the aim to bring a bit of campus to downtown Chattanooga businesses.
Ken Shaw, Southern president, initiated the idea of the gala, which was developed in 2022 to raise funds for first-generation student scholarships.
In an interview with the Accent, Shaw said the event has been a success and has raised over $220,000 for the first-generation endowed scholarship.
“Sometimes [it’s] more challenging for first-generation students to be successful, and we want all of our students to be successful, obviously,” said Shaw. “With these students, sometimes just a little extra financial help can help them to be successful.”
To attend, sponsors had to put down money to reserve one of the 30 tables at the event,
according to Shaw. Sponsors then invited special guests from the community and campus to attend.The sponsors include area businesses, Southern Southern alum and board members, according to an email by Ellen Hostetler, vice president for Advancement.
A Taste of Southern’s website displays the 22 businesses from the community who sponsored tables at this year's event, many of which are owned by alumni or are where Southern students intern.
“[The event is] a great public relations way to share the
good news about Southern,” said Shaw.“There are people in our community that know that there's a school in Collegedale, but they don't know much about it. And this showcases what our students are doing and their successes.”
“[The event is] a great public relations way to share the good news about Southern.”
This year, the event coordinators invited 10 hand-selected Southern students to go to the gala, according to Preston
Anaya Parker Reporter
Southern students and staff volunteer after the distruction of Hurricane Helene in Fletcher, North Carolina.
(Photo courtesy of source)
Professor Michael Weismeyer teaches U.S. History Through Civil War at Brock Hall. Monday, October 07, 2024. (Photo by Ronnell Cabacungan)
Southern students pose for a photo at the Taste of Southern Gala.
(Photo courtesy of source)
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a professor for their history graduate program. In academia, job openings happen so rarely, especially for certain types of jobs.”
A native of Loma Linda, California, Weismeyer said his mother, now elderly, will be nearer to him once he moves to Arizona. That, coupled with the unique opportunity to teach graduate-level history courses, made the timing right despite the challenges of leaving Southern.
“This is not the ideal time for anyone to leave,” he said, of his decision to depart in the middle of the school year. “But I’m making the best of both sides.”
Among his proudest achievements is the introduction of game-based learning to Southern’s history courses. One such activity focused on the New York constitutional ratifica-
tion debate. Others covered a 1300s plague in England, Bacon’s Rebellion in 1600 Virginia, and the 1919 Treaty of Versailles. Weismeyer and Matt Tolbert, psychology professor and director of the Center for Learning Innovation and Research, have been working on a study about religiosity and game-playing.
“I went to a conference where we played games, and I brought that back to the department,” Weismeyer said. “It’s exciting to see how engaged students become when learning history in this way.”
Weismeyer also collaborated with the English Department to revamp the furniture on the third floor of Brock Hall, creating more study-friendly spaces for students. The new furniture, he noted, “is more used than before and helps students study better.”
“His classes were always engaging and made learning fun,” said CJ Jones, sopho -
more international development and political science major. “During our Connections class, he played games with us and provided meaningful insights. It’s going to be tough to adjust when he’s gone.”
“His classes were always engaging and made learning fun”
Lisa Clark Diller, a professor and former chair of the History and Political Studies Department, had initially planned to take a sabbatical this semester. She stated in an interview with the Accent that she will delay her plans to help ease the transition during this significant period of change. Professor Shannon Martin will become the next chair of the department after she completes her dissertation. Until then, Diller will serve as interim chair.
Diller acknowledged Weismeyer’s contributions to the
department.
“He’s been outstanding at recruiting new majors, and his classes are incredibly popular,” Diller said. “His presence has had a huge impact on students, and many feel anxious about what’s next.”
Reflecting on the department’s resilience, Diller commented, “It’s always hard when faculty leave, but in our department, turnover isn’t unusual. This sense of loss shows just how important Dr. Weismeyer has been to both students and faculty.”
“I’ll be here for the rest of the year,” she said. “I’d be too stressed about what’s happening with the students to leave right now.”
When the time does come for her sabbatical, Diller will focus on writing a book about parental rights in 17th-century England, particularly in Catholic families. Her research explores how Catholic parents, often forced to send their children to boarding schools abroad to
preserve their faith, faced emotional and legal challenges.
“It’s a story about family, faith and the struggle for parental rights,” she said. “These historical challenges have relevance today as we continue to navigate parental rights and freedoms in modern societies.”
In an email to students, Weismeyer expressed his deep gratitude for his time at Southern.
“Being in the classroom with you has been a great experience over the past several years,” he stated. “Even on the long days, working with students is what gives me energy to keep going.”
As the department prepares for his departure, history students will continue to have access to advising, and Weismeyer assured them that games will still be part of their learning experience.
“I think I’ve converted everyone to the value of playing games,” he said humorously.
Lights, camera, action: Students work with Pure Flix
Alexis Dewey News Editor
Pure Flix, a Christian streaming service, recently welcomed a few Southern students on its set, according to Sophia Schwartzrock, a junior film production major.
Pure Flix is filming the second season of a series titled “County Rescue” in Cleveland, Tennessee, Schwartzrock said. The show takes place in an EMT unit that is in active use for Bradley County Emergency Services. During the day, the unit is the film's set; at night, it returns to a working unit
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shopping for water, propane, food and other things like that,” he said. “All of that gets shipped out to my family out there, and I didn’t have time to do my homework.”
The hurricane has affected not only students but faculty as well. Stephen Ruf, a professor in the School of Journalism and Communication, has a brother who lives in Waynesville, North Carolina.
According to Ruf, finding water has been difficult because of damaged infrastructure. Money has also been a problem because, until recently, all stores only took cash. Ruf’s brother told him that Walmart only began taking credit cards this past Thursday.
“[My brother and his family] have power, which is good,”
and is used for emergency calls. Shwarztrock said that the remodeling Pure Flix is doing will give the unit a new-looking interior by the end of the set.
“This is the story of an EMT unit [that goes] beyond the call to save lives while navigating their own life, love and faith,” according to Amazon Prime.
According to Southern alumna Michaela Hounslow, the assistant to the unit production manager, helped arrange the opportunity for Southern students to join the set. She also started a program where the students volunteering on set can receive internship hours.
Ruf said, “but it’s been a real struggle for all of my family to try to connect with him because they have no working phone or email.”
Southern’s Response
Though the hurricane was unpredictable, Southern planned disaster response trips before the storm began its devastation.
“The storm really hit Friday … so Wednesday, we already had it pre-approved, and [administration] have the processes in place for excusing students from class,” said Cheryl Craven, director of Christian Service.
To help with disaster relief, Southern is sending four groups of students to Fletcher Academy in North Carolina. Due to Southern’s policy that school-sponsored trips can miss only three days of classes, the four groups are being sent on overlapping schedules for more extended
“Real-world experience is absolutely invaluable, as is seeing how sets are run outside the Southern bubble,” Hounslow said.
The filming process will take six and a half weeks, and students are allowed to come throughout that period, according to Hounslow.
“Since I’m working with the person staffing the set, I was able to put in a good word for the students, and she gave me the go-ahead to set up the intern program,” Hounslow said. “We were able to organize half-day sign-ups that would fit their schedule a little better.”
assistance. Several groups have already left and relief efforts are currently in progress.
“Administration allows for three days of classes to be missed,” Craven said. “And the way that we’re sending the groups, I think it’s really helpful so that there’s no loss of service. One group leaves, but the other group comes the night before. So we’re able to overlap, and the work will continue every day rather than them being without.”
Over 90 students applied to go on the trip, and as of Thursday, Oct. 3, 69 students would be participating in the disaster relief, according to Craven.
Since the physical therapist assistant (PTA) program at Southern is too intensive for students to miss class, Craven said they created their own trip to help during the weekend.
“PTA reached out to us and …
Schwartzrock worked as one of the production assistants, along with some other Southern students. She helped decorate the set and ensure everything was in place for filming.
She recalled that the production team paid close attention to small details. Schwartzrock said they are so detail-oriented, that they rearrange everything to make sure it is perfect, even down to the shelves and yoga mats.
Meeting new people and networking was one of the many highlights for Schwartzrock. “I brought a freshman student [Piper Jamison] with me, and so,
it was kind of like showing her the ropes,” she said. “It was a new environment for the both of us, but her first time on set ever.”
“This is an absolutely incredible opportunity for students!” said Hounslow. “I’m so glad that the film students are having the chance to see more of the industry, learn from professionals and make some connections before they graduate.”
“Great American Pure Flix is committed to bringing you quality movies and programs that celebrate Faith, Family, and country,” according to its website.
said, ‘We really want to respond, but we can’t go on your trip. So, can we do our own?’ So, there’s number four,” Craven said.
Students are involved in several activities in North Carolina, including running Points of Distribution, shoveling mud out of homes, removing debris and potentially tarping roofs with full supervision. According to Craven, the first group stopped on its way to Fletcher to buy a surplus of baby food after being notified that only three jars of baby food were left for the whole district.
“Parents with little ones being without, I mean, that was huge, so they literally stopped and just bought everything in the
Walmart on the way there,” Craven said.
Craven said the trips and services on behalf of those affected by the tragedy align with the last part of Southern’s mission statement, which is to equip students to “pursue Spirit-filled lives of service.”
“When we think of being a faith-based university, it aligns with Jesus Christ, who said, in Mark 10:45, ‘The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many,’” said Craven. “So we’re giving a portion of our lives, but it’s just doing what Jesus exampled for us.”
Debris is piled on the sidewalk in a neighborhood in Hendersonville, NC.
(Photo courtesy of source)
A Southern volunteer poses while helping in an impacted home. (Photo courtesy of source)
COLLEGEDALE NEWS
Local elections in Collegedale: Candidate insights
Emma Rodriguez Collegedale News Editor
Hayden Kobza
Collegedale News Editor
With three available seats on the Collegedale Board of Commissioners and four individuals in the race, voters will go to the ballot box over the next few weeks to select the candidates of their choice.
Those running for office include two current commissioners, Vice Mayor Tim Johnson and Commissioner Debbie Baker, and two candidates not currently serving on the commission, Billy Burnette and Laura Howse. Johnson was first elected as Commissioner in 2001. Outside of the commission, he has worked full-time as a National Account Manager at Cigna for
about 40 years and also serves as an Advanced EMT with the Tri-Community Fire Department.
He has volunteered in various capacities, including as a reserve police officer and EMT in Collegedale, according to the City of Collegedale’s website.
Baker was first elected commissioner in 2009. Outside of the commission, she is a special education teacher at Apison Elementary School with the Hamilton County Department of Education. According to the City of Collegedale's website, she enjoys gardening, cooking, crafting and sports. She also has a collection of John Deere items
Burnette has served 13 years with the Tri-Community Volunteer Fire Department. Currently, he holds a senior management role with Hamilton
connect Apison Pike, Tucker and Edgmon roads. It will be a 3-plus year project, and I would like to deliver what we have started.
Laura Howse: There is always room for improvement and Collegedale citizens deserve the very best. As a homeschool mother of two teenagers, I would bring a unique perspective to the board. I would love to represent these great people, and I hope I have earned their vote.
Billy Burnette: I’ve lived in Collegedale for 24 years, where my wife and I raised our four daughters. Recently, Collegedale has experienced tremendous growth, and it’s crucial that we continue to plan carefully and make thoughtful decisions to build on the strong foundation our previous leaders have created.
Debbie Baker: I’d like to continue the projects I’ve been working on, which is that of the Greenway. I want to build bike trails. That’s good revenue, and it brings a healthy environment into the city; plus it’s family oriented. I am also big on special ed. They’ll tell you any park, anything that’s coming about, I make sure it’s handicapped accessible. I want it to be inclusive, not just because of special needs, but parents need to be able to swing with their
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Waters, senior marketing major. Waters, along with nine other students, were nominated by their respective departments to attend the event.
“It was a really unique event, and it was well decorated,” Waters said. “When [President] Ken Shaw started talking about students and their accomplishments, it made me proud to be a Southern student.”
Lesieli Savelio, senior public relations and international studies - Spanish major, was one of the students invited.
“We had some pre-gala training, and someone from the advancement office told us that this was something new; they had not invited students [as guests] in prior years,” Savelio said. “We were told that this would be a great chance to network with sponsors and attendees.” Savelio shared that although
County EMS, where he has 31 years of service.
Additionally, Burnette has been involved with the Forgotten Child Fund for 19 years and serves as treasurer on its Board of Directors, according to Chattanoogan.com.Howse has taught in the Radiography Program at Chattanooga State since 2006 and developed an online MRI program. She has also been an Online Learning Facilitator for Harvard Business School's MBA program for the past three years.
As President of the Stratford Place HOA for more than five years, she has organized food drives and community activities. According to Howse's website, the Howse family has been involved in their local church, preparing meals and hosting
kids. Another thing is affordable living space. Many more would like to live in Collegedale but can’t afford a house, even though they make good money in their professions now.
Q: What do you consider the most pressing issues facing Collegedale today?
Tim Johnson: Residential growth is inevitable and a major concern regarding traffic. In my eyes, residential growth must accommodate parks and recreation where the citizens live and necessary road improvements. Building common ground with citizens and developers is the first step.
Laura Howse: Traffic and taxes. Improvement of traffic flow is essential because the safety of our residents, especially our students and children, is a key priority. Taxpayer money should be spent with respect and consideration for the long-term liabilities. Before raising taxes, we need to consider the effect on our retired citizens with fixed incomes. Inflation has been hard for the city to manage, but it’s just as hard for families.
Billy Burnette: As I’ve been going door-to-door to meet with residents, it’s clear that
she felt honored to be invited, the event differed from what she expected.
“I didn’t get to network as much as I thought I would,” she said. “While I loved hearing the live jazz band, it was difficult to have conversation over the music.”
“While I loved hearing the live jazz band, it was difficult to have conversation over the music.”
Chidi Onyeije, senior accounting major, also attended the gala.
“My favorite part was having a conversation with Gary Rustad, Georgia-Cumberland Conference president,” Onyeije said. “He was the most connective person at the event. He is such a kind, down-to-earth guy. He cared about us beyond us as students, beyond the church; he truly cared about us as people.”
The event began at 6 p.m. with a pre-show emceed by the
events for the youth group.
Commissioner Katie Lamb, whose term ends in November, is not running for re-election.
Commissioner Tonya Sadler and Mayor Morty Lloyd are also not up for re-election, as their terms end in November 2026.
Early voting starts on Wednesday, Oct. 16, and ends on Thursday, Oct. 31. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 5. To find the closest polling place for early voting and Election Day, visit https:// elect.hamiltontn.gov/ for more information.
When voting, each person is required to bring one of the following IDs, even if expired: a Tennessee driver’s license with your photo, a United States passport photo ID issued by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security,
growth and infrastructure are major concerns. Recently, a large new community is being developed, and many citizens feel their voices were not heard. This has led to a lack of trust in the current elected officials. During my conversations with them, I explained that had I been elected at the time the decision was made, I would have also voted in favor. However, I would have held meetings in the neighborhoods to discuss the city’s options. I outlined those options, and every resident I spoke with understood and wanted to know why the current commissioners didn’t take this approach.
Debbie Baker: I would like to see parks and recreation over on the other side of town. I’m talking about mountain biking. People could come through, and that would be good, too, even for the university. Have bike stations and things that would help the city. Housing is another big issue, affordable living. Right now, we’re in a situation where prices of building materials and things have gone up, but I’d like to see it not be as high. When you come out of college, as a couple, if you can afford a $400,000 - $500,000 home, that’s great. Most can’t. Make it feasible where they can obtain one, because that’s an
SJC Ignite team that included a bake-off competition by Southern’s culinary team, a silent auction and live pieces by Southern’s Jazz ensemble.
Following the pre-show, the main event began at 7 p.m. Southern alum and Tennessee State Representative, Greg Vital, opened the evening with invocation.
Shaw then made a short speech and introduced two unique videos: one showcasing two students who were recipients of the first-generation scholarship last year, and the other about an alum who has worked in the public school system for nearly 50 years.
Gala attendees were given the option to donate an amount directed towards the first-generation student fund. Approximately $225,000 has been raised, according to Hostetler.
a photo ID issued by the federal or Tennessee state government, a United States military photo ID or a Tennessee handgun carry permit with your photo, according to the Tennessee Secretary of State’s website.
In interviews with the Accent, the four candidates running for office shared their motivations for running and plans for the city if elected. The answers were edited for length and clarity: Q: What motivated you to run for this position?
Tim Johnson: As a commissioner, I am committed to making Collegedale a better place to live, where residents can enjoy the outdoors and feel safe. I’m currently leading the biggest Greenway expansion, which will
investment. You work with your builders, and you work with getting grants. We’re always searching for a better way.
Q: How do you plan to engage with residents, particularly students?
Tim Johnson: Community engagement can be a challenge. At our Collegedale Commission meetings, we have four or five citizens that come regularly. We would like to see more. Collegedale needs to solicit feedback from students or have several representatives that bring topics to the commission. … Historically, Southern did host forums open to students and the community. We would like to see the university revitalize candidate forums. I invite students and citizens to contact me through tjohnson@collegedaletn.gov or 423-322-7991.
Laura Howse: I promise to hold quarterly town hall meetings for Collegedale residents, commissioners, planners and city officials to work together to find solutions. Communicating the town hall times and dates will be done through press releases not just Facebook posts. I will respond to emails promptly and be available to meet with students as needed.
Billy Burnette: If elected, I will regularly meet with both citizens and students to hear their thoughts and concerns. When controversial issues or resolutions come up, I want to ensure that everyone has access to all the facts—whether positive, negative or neutral—so they can make informed decisions. During such times, I plan to host town hall meetings to facilitate open discussions. Additionally, citizens already have three opportunities each month to engage with their elected officials and ask questions, and I will always make myself available during those times. I also include my cell phone number and email in all my social media posts, encouraging anyone to reach out with questions.
Debbie Baker: Students have to come get involved. It’s hard to actively engage if they don’t want to actively engage. Come to City Hall and be a voice. Invite us to things that you want us to speak at. We can get actively involved and use whatever materials and resources we have to help you. I’m real big on supporting Southern — but not just Southern, other colleges, [and] education in general — but a lot of that is just communication. We don’t know unless you tell us.
Collegedale Commissioner Debbie Baker (Photo courtesy of source)
Commissioner candidate Billy Burnette (Photo courtesy of source)
Commissioner candidate Laura Howse (Photo courtesy of source)
Vice Mayor Tim Johnson (Photo courtesy of source)
Seth Robertson plays his saxophone for Ernie Haas and Signature Sound during the Southern Gala. Thursday, October 03, 2024. (Photo by Mila Bales)
423 NIGHT
Alfredo Trevedan serves food for Saturday October 5, 2024. Saturday, October 05, 2024. (Photo by Malachi Cushion)
Elias Hanson plays the keyboard during his band's set at 423 Night Market
Thursday September 26, 2024. (Photo by Shengzhe Zhao)
Students attend the 423 Night Market on Saturday Oct. 5, 2024.
Saturday, October 05, 2024. (Photo by Malachi Cushion)
Eliud Cabellero prepares food at the Columbomex booth. Saturday, October 05, 2024. (Photo by Malachi Cushion)
Students watch the “Battle of the Bands” concert. Saturday, October 05, 2024. (Photo by Malachi Cushion)
MENTAL HEALTH
Coping with loneliness: Tips for college
Abby Dizon Contributor
Editor’s Note: The following articles are written by counseling professionals from Counseling Services in partnership with the Southern Accent.
College can be filled with new experiences and opportunities, but it can also be lonely for many students. Juggling college-level courses, trying to make new friends and adjusting to life away from home can leave students feeling isolated and disconnected.
According to a 2023 American College Health Association survey, 51% of college students reported feeling loneliness, highlighting it as a significant issue on campuses across the United States.
This article will provide a few tips on how to cope when those feelings of loneliness and disconnection arise.
First, it is necessary to have compassion for yourself. Recognize that loneliness is a natural human experience and does not reflect your worth or value. Treat yourself with kindness and understanding, just as you would a friend.
Do things that make you feel good, whether working on your favorite hobby, walking outside, listening to music or simply relaxing. Prioritizing self-care can better equip you to cope with loneliness and thrive during your college experience.
Look at alone time as an opportunity to develop independence and a time to care for your emotional needs rather than viewing it as a negative.
Seek opportunities to connect with people, even if, on some
days, all you can manage is just a quick chat with a friend. Attend campus events, volunteer somewhere you care about and join LifeGroups and clubs that share your interests or join intramurals if you enjoy playing sports. You never know where you will make a friend or find a friendly face.
Creating a social life can help you feel less alone and more like you belong. Remember,
meaningful connections can be found in unexpected places, so stay open to new experiences and opportunities to engage with others. Avoid deciding how you will feel about an activity ahead of time. In other words, don’t predetermine your emotional response to various activities.
Instead of staying stuck in the mindset that certain events will leave you feeling isolated or
hinder your progress toward making friends, approach the opportunity with an open mind, optimism and a willingness to engage. Every event and interaction is different, and outcomes may surprise you. Brief interactions or small acts of kindness have the potential to develop into genuine friendships or simply brighten your day and alleviate feelings of isolation.
Dealing with loneliness in college is not easy, but it is something you can handle. Remember to be kind to yourself, try to make new connections and make a genuine effort to do so with a positive mindset. Doing these things can improve your college experience and decrease feelings of loneliness while also building a support system.
SPORTS
Highlighting the Hispanic MLB players that are shaping this year’s postseason narrative
Gabriella Grundy Contributor
With the Major League Baseball (MLB) postseason underway, teams are fighting in the Divisional Championship Series this week to secure their spots in the League Championship Series (LCS), beginning Oct. 13. The World Series is expected to start on Friday, Oct. 25, but could be bumped up to Oct. 22 if both LCS conclude by Oct. 19. In celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month, it’s almost impossible to discuss baseball without recognizing the impact of Hispanic players and their influence in shaping professional baseball as we know it today. As the largest minority group in the MLB, Hispanic players comprise nearly 30 percent of MLB team rosters. Here’s a highlight of some key Hispanic players with
significant roles in their teams’ postseason campaigns.
Teoscar Hernández (Los Angeles Dodgers) – Winner of the 2024 Home Run Derby and twotime All-Star, Hernández’s tworun RBI single gave the Dodgers the lead over the Padres in the National League Championship Series on Oct. 5. Hernández led all position players with 154 games played, and is expected to land a hefty multi-year deal in the upcoming offseason.
Manny Machado (San Diego Padres) – Machado has been a cornerstone for the Padres since he signed a 10-year, $350 million contract with them in 2019, the fifth-largest deal in baseball history.
The third baseman is the Padres’ alltime home run leader and has an extraordinary arm. He is a six-time All-Star, two-time Gold Glove Award winner and won a Silver Slugger Award in 2020.
José Ramírez (Cleveland Guardians) – The Guardians’ superstar third baseman was robbed of one last chance to become MLB’s second-ever 40-homer, 40-steal, 40-double player, instead finishing 39-41-39 since the last scheduled game of the regular season was rained out. Ramírez is a six-time selectee to the MLB All-Star Game and a four-time Silver Slugger Award winner.
Juan Soto (New York Yankees) – Soto continues to be one of the most dangerous hitters in the league as one of the top home run hitters in the 2024 season, with 41 home runs. Soto has won the Silver Slugger Award four times and is a four-time All-Star.
While the Atlanta Braves lost the Wild Card series against the Padres last week and did not advance in the postseason, a Hispanic MLB player who has quickly become a fan-favorite is Ronald
Acuña Jr. of the Braves. Acuña, a three-time Silver Slugger and four-time All-Star had an extraordinary 2023 season, becoming the first player in MLB history to hit 40 home runs and steal 70 bases in a single season. When he was promoted to the major leagues in 2018, he became the youngest player in the MLB at that time.
In the last decade, Hispanic players in the MLB have infused a lot of energy and culture into the game. From playing style to walk-up songs, the contributions of Hispanic baseball players have brought a new level of excitement and upped the standards of athleticism in professional baseball.
Intramural Schedule:
Wednesday
6:00 pm
- She Gone v. Flag Football Team (Ladies B)
- BlitzCraig v. Catching Footballs Not Feels (Mens A)
- Thatcher Catchers v. Kims Convenience (Mens B)
7:00 pm
- He fumbled v. Abusement Park (Ladies A)
- Illegal Interceptors v. Jay Gochu (Mens B)
- Red Sea Parters v. Team Johnson (Mens B)
8:00 pm
- Team Crash Out v. Sack Attack (Mens A)
- Snotpickers v. Ceedeez (Mens A)
- Dreams Of OJ v. Chiefs (Mens B)
9:00 pm
- Channy Dimes v. Coach Saban’s Seeds (Mens B)
- Bomb Squad v. Me And Mehomies (Mens B)
- Shannon Sharpe v. Butkers Bros (Mens B)
Thursday 6:00 pm
- BigBackers v. The Longest Yard (Mens B)
- Thatcher Catchers v. Team King (Mens B)
- Dreams Of OJ v. Rack Em Up (Mens B)
7:00 pm
- Wranglers v. Lego Batman (Mens B)
- Jay Gochu v. The Mighty Chondrias (Mens B)
- Red Sea Parters v. Los Angeles Lakers (Mens B)
8:00 pm
- Illegal interceptors v. Old School (Mens B)
- Team Johnson v. Kims Convenience (Mens B)
- What A Play By Mahomes v. Nextdoor Nabers (Mens B)
9:00 pm
- Channy Dimes v. Chiefs (Mens B)
- Bomb Squad v. Shannon Sharpe (Mens B)
- Illegal Interceptors v. Me And Mahomies (Mens B)
Manny Machado plays a game for the San Diego Padres. (Photo sourced from the Wikimedia Commons).
Loneliness is a part of life, but there are ways to manage it. (Photo sourced from Pexels).
OPINION
Digital footprints: The importance of the right to be forgotten online in the AI era
Samuel
Guerra Arriaza Contributor
On Sept. 25, the tech giant Meta held its annual flagship event, Meta Connect 2024. Meta introduced multiple updates and new products to the public at the event, most featuring AI.
Tech companies hold events following a recurring model, and this year’s event would have been like any other if not for one particular device that captured people’s attention–the Orion Augmented Reality (AR) glasses–or, as Mark Zuckerberg enthusiastically called them, “the most advanced glasses the world has ever seen.”
These Orion AR glasses have attached cameras that can identify what the user looks at in the physical world and provide helpful visualizations. For example, you could open your fridge and ask for a recipe based on what’s inside.
Despite not being available to the public yet, Meta is proud of using this technology for “enabling digital experiences that are unconstrained by the limits of a smartphone screen,” Using less corporate jargon, imagine being able to do pretty much everything you currently do on your smartphone but with glasses instead. Smart glasses and similar technologies are not new. Apple, for example, released its Vision Pro VR headset earlier this year, although it differs in principle from AR glasses. However, tech enthusiasts agree that the Orion glasses seem to be making the use of AR tech -
nology closer to becoming a reality in everyday life.
Privacy concerns emerge with the rise of a future saturated with readily available cameras that can capture any real-world interaction. Nowadays, we have normalized having cameras around us, such as smartphones, dashboards, doorbells, etc.
But this upcoming iteration of cameras constantly moves with every user at an eye level, acting as an extra pair of eyes. The crucial difference is these digital eyes can keep a detailed account of everything happening in front of them, constantly capturing new data that could be misused.
In recent years, we have witnessed the surge of AI with its benefits and risks in spreading misinformation via the generation of hyper-realistic fake images or deep fake videos to scams via AI-powered impersonation. As technology advances, less information is needed to train these AIs. Moreover, AI models used for chatbots like ChatGPT, Claude, and others are being trained using big data from internet users, often without their consent or awareness.
This is where the importance of talking about the “right to be forgotten” and its online presence comes into play in this new AI era. In some countries, this right currently advocates for removing private information about a person from internet searches and other directories under specific circumstances.
The conversation about this online right is not new; it was
RELIGION
established in the European Union in 2014 by the European Court of Justice. In the United States, a Pew Research Center survey conducted in June 2019 found that 74% of American adults think it is more important to be able to “keep things about themselves from being searchable online,” while 23% said it is more important to be able to “discover potentially useful information about others.”
Despite this public support, there is no federal-level regulatory protection, and I believe
this is especially crucial when facing the new and upcoming threats posed by AI.
Beyond the risks of having personal information in the hands of tech giants for their use, profitability, potential misuse and a future panopticon-like reality, I believe that prolonging one’s presence in the collective consciousness goes against what our human nature claims.
The possibility of our digital footprint remaining forever after death brings a new set of issues we are not prepared
to face. I believe there should be a choice to opt out of this digital persistence, allowing us to come to terms with the natural destiny on Earth of being remembered by loved ones and, eventually, forgotten after a few generations.
Editor’s Note: The Opinion Section encourages multiple perspectives, so please feel free to send a response or other opinions for future articles to allisongrundy@southern.edu.
What would Jesus do? Christians and Government
Lucas Bueno Religion Editor
Right now, the United States is heading toward a momentous and tense election. So far this year, we have witnessed two assassination attempts and changes in the presidential ticket. There have also been fewer debates than usual, giving American voters less information to consider their decisions. Elsewhere in the world, other countries are experiencing tense elections or terrible conflicts. Needless to say, this year prompts many questions concerning politics and governments.
Today, we will look at what the Bible teaches regarding governments and the leaders placed over us. While the Bible doesn’t specify whom we should vote for in the next election, it provides wisdom that helps guide our minds to the right place as we consider our government and its leaders. Jesus answered wisely when the religious leaders asked if one should pay taxes to Caesar, a leader who was hated by the Jews. Matthew 22:21 ESV says, “Then he said to them, ‘Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.’” Similarly, Romans 13:1-7 ESV reads, “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment.
For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Would you have no fear of the one who is in authority? Then do what is good, and you will receive his approval, for he is God’s servant for your
good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain. For he is the servant of God, an avenger who carries out God’s wrath on the wrongdoer. Therefore one must be in subjection, not only to avoid God’s wrath but also for the sake of conscience. For because of this, you also pay taxes, for the authorities are ministers of God, attending to this very thing. Pay to all what is owed to them: taxes to whom taxes are owed, revenue to whom revenue is owed, respect to whom respect is owed, honor to whom honor is owed.”
Here, we have guidance from Christ and Paul that urges us to be subject and respectful to the authorities and governments we live under. We are not to be in strife and rebellion against them. We are to follow their laws and pay what is owed to them, as they also provide for us. However, though we are citizens of our country, Christians are also citizens of the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, we are also subject to the commands of God. Thus, if the commands of human governments contradict God’s commands, we must hold only to
God’s standards. In the past, early Adventists faced this issue regarding the Fugitive Slave Law in 1850, and we can heed their example should a similar time arise.
One of the most potent instructions regarding Christians and their earthly leaders is 1 Timothy 2:1-4 ESV. “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God
our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.”
This command calls for much humility in a climate of political division, even within our church. Regardless of who is leading, regardless of his or her policies and actions, God calls each of us to pray for them. Not just for those who match our political convictions. Our prayers must be for all the leaders. May the Bible’s advice guide our thoughts and prayers no matter what occurs this election season. May we begin praying even now.
Orion AR glasses have attached cameras that can identify what the user looks at in the physical world and provide helpful visualizations. (Photo sourced from Unsplash, Edited by Samuel Guerra)
Between two worlds: My Cuban-American heritage
Grace Garcia Contributor
Growing up as a Cuban American, my Hispanic heritage has always been an integral part of my identity.
It’s more than a box I check off on a census form; it’s a lived experience, a cultural inheritance that has shaped my worldview, values and sense of self. For me, being Cuban American means balancing two worlds: honoring the rich cultural traditions of my Cuban roots while navigating the opportunities and challenges of a lifestyle in the United States.
One of the most profound aspects of my heritage is the strong sense of family and community. In Cuban culture, family isn’t just the people you’re related to by blood; it’s a tightknit network of friends, neighbors and even distant relatives. Everyone is your family.
Growing up, I spent countless hours at family gatherings in my abuela’s kitchen, where funny stories and memories of the past were shared over cups of café con leche; the noise of children and laughter filled the whole house. Even though I was born in the United States, my parents made sure I understood the struggles and resilience of my ancestors who fled Cuba seeking freedom and opportunity. Their stories instilled in me a deep respect for perseverance and sacrifice.
Food is another deeply meaningful part of my heritage. Every dish — whether it’s a delicious plate of congrí y plátanos or a large helping of fragrant yucca — carries the flavors of my ancestors and the history of the island. Sharing a meal with family or friends is a way to connect, pass down traditions and keep our culture alive. Food transcends borders, and as Cuban Americans, it’s a constant reminder
of where we came from and the strength of our community. At the same time, being Cuban American means navigating the complexities of having a dual identity. I have always felt a push and pull between embracing my Cuban heritage and completely integrating into American culture. In school, I had to learn how to balance the val-
ues my family taught me with the expectations of American society. For instance, the communal nature of Cuban culture sometimes clashes with the individualism that’s more prized in the United States. At the same time, I’ve also struggled with navigating between two languages: English and Spanish. When I was growing up, assimilating into Ameri-
can culture meant almost forgetting Spanish. It’s a balancing act — one where I’ve learned to take pride in my cultural heritage without feeling like I have to sacrifice parts of myself to fit into the mainstream. Ultimately, my Hispanic heritage as a Cuban American is a source of pride, resilience and belonging. It’s about carrying the stories, traditions and struggles of my ancestors with me while forging my own path in a new world. It’s knowing that, while I may not have grown up in Cuba, the island’s history and culture are still very much a part of who I am. I am a product of the best of two worlds, deeply Cuban and proudly American, and that duality is something I embrace every day.
SOCIAL
Edelvis Batista Rubio Garcia, Grace Garcia’s Abuela (Photo courtesy of Grace Garcia).
c_h_i_d_i well, yes!
Photo Credit: Carlos Torres
justxjhoan LAC NIGHT IS IN 10 DAYSSSSS!!!!!
Photo Credit: not provided, but gives permission
Chidi Onyeije Jhoan Ogando
Backer
Photo Credit: Gaby Alfaro
_colinglenn This mzungu misses Uganda
Photo Credit: Dr. Braam Oberholster
Melody Mambo Colin Glenn M C
lissajflores i’m in
love affair with Sevilla’s charm and history
12:00
Student Association: Senate Surprise SOAP: Overnight Backpacking, October 11 – 12, 2024, 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm (Fee$25.00) @ Outdoor Education Center
• 6:30 pm Vespers: Anna Bennett @ Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists
• 7:10 pm Sunset
• 8:00 pm Star Watch @ Hickman Science Center Parking Lot
• 8:30 pm Vespers: Anna Bennett @ Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists
8:00 am SAT Test (To register visit https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/ sat/registration/additional-registration-options/sunday-testing) @ Bietz Center Testing Offices
• 7:30 pm Concert: Wind Symphony, Organized by School of Music @ Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists
National Depression Screening Day
9:30 am - 11:00 am Town Hall: Board of Trustees Report @ Lynn Wood Chapel • 11:00 am Convocation: Meet the Firms @ Iles P.E. Center • 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm Town Hall: Board of Trustees Report @ Lynn Wood Chapel
• 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Performing Arts: Ziggy and Miles, guitarists (Tickets$10.00) @ Ackerman Auditorium
Weekly Birthdays
7:00 pm Evensong: Vocal Students @ Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists
9:00 pm - 11:00 pm Latin American Cultural Night @ Iles P.E. Center
Columbus Day • 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm Pop with the Prez @ Promenade 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm Faculty Senate @ Robert Merchant Room
Answers: 1A. Lucha 1D. Latin 3A. Tacos 2D. Cicadas 4A. Nadas
Payday: Salary 6:00 pm Tornado Siren Test
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