The Lion's Roar 01/26/2016

JANUARY 26, 2016 VOLUME 87, ISSUE 16

’ THE LION S ROAR S O U T H E A S T E R N L O U I S IA NA U N I V E R S I T Y

A Student Publication

Campus Life Page 2

Opinions Page 3

Arts & Entertainment Page 4

Sports Page 6

News Page 8

LionsRoarNews.com

Upward Electronic coasting devices now banned across campus Bound paves path for future of high school students BY ALEX BRAINARD Staff Reporter

BY WILLIAM SCHMIDT Opinions Editor

In 1987, the university began the Upward Bound Program that continues today. According to the Upward Bound Program page found on the Southeastern website, “The purpose of the Upward Bound Program is to generate in lowincome and first generation high school students, the academic strength, skills and motivation required to ensure their success in postsecondary education. The program is designed to better prepare selected students to enter and complete a postsecondary educational program after the completion of high school.” The Upward Bound Program is designed to help high school students who may come from low income families whose parents did not attend college. “It [Upward Bound Program] currently serves 425 firstgeneration college students, meaning neither parent has a college degree,” said Director of Upward Bound Programs Ron Abel. “When I say college student, I mean these are precollege students.” The Upward Bound Program currently has five different Upward Bound grants aimed with particular goals. “Three of them [grants] are what we call the Classic Upward Bound grants,” said Abel. “This grant serves students preparing them for majors in any field. We have two others, math and science Upward Bound grants that prepare students for the STEM field: science, technology, engineering and mathematics.” The program currently has 12 full-time staff members which include a director, five assistant directors and six outreach specialist. According to Abel, Upward Bound works with the students in several ways during the week, and the outreach specialist are kind of like counselors. “First of all, we keep the students we work with after school, and we become like their high school counselors,” said Abel. “We do with them what a counselor would do with the time and resources. We help students prep for the ACT. We help them determine what college they are going to go to. We help them apply to that college. We help them identify scholarships, [and] help them apply for those scholarships. When they get into those schools, we help them apply for classes, help them get in there and help them figure out how they are paying for it. We help them stay above a 2.5 GPA in the core curriculum in high school so they can graduate and move forward. We also work with them and help them bring their ACT score up so they can score the required 20 points to get TOPS.” Saturday is another day during the school year in which the Upward Bound Program

see UPWARD BOUND pg. 6

Hoverboards have become a popular way of getting around the university. They have also become a common way to travel locally throughout the country. However, there has been a recent ban on the devices due to safety hazards that were discovered. Hoverboards were becoming known to burst into flames and have already caused severe problems within America. Reports from the device’s fire outbreaks have come from Florida, Alabama, New York, Washington and Louisiana. International airports were one of the first to ban the devices with college universities such as Louisiana State University and Southeastern Louisiana University to follow procedures and also initiate bans. While across the country many colleges are still taking action and continuing bans on hoverboards, Southeastern has banned all electronic coasting devices. “My goal is to keep our students safe,” said Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs, James McHodgkins. “It’s more for safety. The biggest

thing about the hoverboards is that there are a lot of them and they catch fire and explode. We didn’t want that to happen in dormitories, classrooms and other buildings on campus where someone may be charging them and they catch on fire.” With campus banning all electronic coasting devices, the university has issued a new policy about coasting devices on campus. Students are still allowed to have transportation vehicles such as bicycles, skateboards, roller skates and any other coasting device as long as it is not electronic. The new policy does state, “Electronic skateboards, including self-balancing boards, scooters, hoverboards and other similar equipment are prohibited from being used, stored, and/ or charged in any University building and/or community. This includes campus grounds and all residence halls, apartments and organization/Greek houses.” Professor of Materials Science & Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University Jay Whitacre performed studies on the device that shows it is not the device itself that is dangerous, but the batteries inside. Lithium-ion batteries

AP Photo/Elaine Thompson, File

Southeastern Louisiana University joined many colleges and universities around the country in restricting hoverboards on campus, as federal officials review dozens of fires tied to the self-balancing scooters. are what power the hoverboards and can over heat while being charged which causes the fire to ignite. Another cause of fire is if the battery is punctured while someone is riding it. McHodgkins explained that the university banned all electronic coasting devices as a

safety precaution. “It’s more for protection for our students,” said McHodgkins. “In addition, there have been more reports of students who were injured riding those things. We’re looking at more of the safety of our students and others. Not just the users, but people

who are in the same vicinity.” While there have not been any incidents that were reported on campus, that doesn’t mean incidents have not occurred in the area. “I think the ban is necessary

see HOVERBOARDS pg. 7

Traveling abroad to help educate less fortunate BY WILLIAM SCHMIDT Opinons Editor

Though this is the first full week of classes, graduating senior psychology major Christine Jones is already making plans on how she will be traveling to Cape Town, South Africa for the second year in a row to help tutor students in math and English through the One Heart Source Program. According to oneheartsource.org, their “mission is to build environments within marginalized populations that promote a comprehensive approach to eliminating the gap between those who have access to bettering their lives and those who do not.” One of the reasons that Jones is going back to South Africa is because of the incredible experience she had last

year, but also to help children with an education they are eager to have. “I haven’t experienced anything like it in my life,” said Jones. “Going to another country I’ve done. But, going and putting your heart into a place that has so much hurt really inspired me to go back and help kids who don’t have the education. They are so excited about getting this knowledge from us. We tutor them in math and English and their so excited about what we have to teach them.” After tutoring in math and English, the guys and girls are split into two separate groups where they are able to hear encouraging words on the future that they are not use to. “We talk about what [they] want to do with [their] life and how [they] can achieve those goals,” said Jones. “[We

tell them] that, ‘You actually can do it’ because they are so used to hearing, ‘You can’t do it.’ You can see a spark in their eye, that they can actually do something in the world.” With having done the trip to South Africa last year, Jones has not only been able to learn knowledge that may not be able to be picked up in the classroom, but she also gained the knowledge of how people are working to become better themselves. “I think more than anything they [children being tutored] help us realize that there are people striving to be better and all we have to do is care,” said Jones. “I would always encourage going to another country you don’t know

see TRAVEL pg. 8

MLK remembered during march BY KARSON SHARP Staff Reporter

The Lion’s Roar / Karson Sharp

Members of Alpha Phi Alpha march across campus to honor Martin Luther King. After the march, members displayed an image of King during a memorial speech.

A large procession crossed the campus recently, including students, university officials and others who wanted to honor the memory of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Moving swiftly over the many sidewalks of campus, the marchers filled the air with cries of, “United we stand, divided we fall.” The march took place on Tuesday evening, January 19,

and moved from the Pedestrian Tunnel near North Campus to the Hurricane Katrina and Rita Memorial Fountain. After crossing the campus, marchers formed a crowd near the fountain, The Men of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. gave a speech about the life, deeds and accomplishments of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The speech explained, Dr. King used nonviolent protest tactics to create change in an atmosphere of overwhelming oppression. Though he

sometimes encountered violence, King never wavered from his dreams of liberation and harmony. The march was supported by the Office of Multicultural and International Student Affairs, The Men of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.and University President Dr. John Crain, who was in attendance. Student Engagement official Kyle Gallagher was in attendance and praised the nonviolent policies of Dr. King.

see MLK pg. 6

The Lion’s Roar / William Schmidt

The Lion’s Roar / Megan Ferrando

Courtesy of Dr. Norman German

Artist and professor Michael Aldana created “The Elation of Bondage” for The Contemporary Art Gallery’s faculty exhibiton. See page 4 for the story.

Greeks challenge popular stereotypes through philanthropy and more. See page 2 for the story.

Retired English professor draws inspiration from Louisiana culture for his short story collection. See page 4 for the story.

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Weather Tuesday H 68 L 41

Reminders Wednesday H 54 L 34

Yard signs, with the exception of a few utilized by the University, will not be permissible on campus.

CAMPUS LIFE

PAGE 2 JANUARY 26, 2016

THE LION’S ROAR

Growing Greek community reverses stereotypes BY MEGAN MCCORMICK Campus Life Editor

Wednesdays are known as “Jersey Day” for those affiliated with a Greek organization on campus. Greeks wear their letters representing their respective fraternity or sorority. While wearing the letters, members, such as Sigma Sigma Sigma sophomore sorority member Summer Carter, have had to deal with negative stereotypes that are presumed true. “Before I joined [a sorority], I totally believed in the stereotypes,” said Carter. “I thought everyone was stuck up and rude just like the movies, but Greek Life at Southeastern [has] proved me wrong.” A common stereotype is that those in Greek Life “pay for their friends.” “I have heard plenty of negativity [being] talked about sororities,” said Carter. “I just respond with, ‘I’m not paying for my friends. I’m paying for T-shirts, trips and events. We are people who want to help a certain cause and bond together to do it.’” Another stereotype is that in order to join a Greek

The Lion’s Roar / File photo

Southeastern has reached a record high of the number of students who have joined the Greek community. Aside from many beliefs and stereotypes, Greeks strive to better the campus and Hammond community. Pictured above are fraternities and sororities joining together during Greek Week 2015. organization, one must dress, act and look a particular way, but Carter believes otherwise. “Now that I am part of a sorority, I do not believe in these stereotypes,” said Carter. “The people are not stuck up and come from all kinds of backgrounds.” From movies, it could seem evident that a Greek would just want to join a fraternity

or sorority for the booze and parties. For all, this is not true. Some want to join to make a difference in the community or for an outside organization, such as a chosen philanthropy. “You just have to listen,” said Carter. “These people are kind and are looking to help their community and just wanting to get involved on campus just like every other organization.”

Another reason for joining could be to get involved or to network amongst other college students who share the same interest. “School was miserable and boring,” said Carter. “In high school, I was involved in everything. When I came to college, I had nothing to do. A friend from high school saw me and told me I should come to

an interest party. I was hesitant, but I went to see what it was all about. By the time I left, I was in love.” Aside from what others may say, Carter believes her sorority has changed her for the better. “Being in a sorority has helped me grow in more ways than one,” said Carter. “It has taught me how to work with others, get out of my comfort

zone and has made me a better leader.” Within the past year, campus has seen an increase in the number of Greeks. The combined populations of the Interfraternity, National Pan-hellenic and Collegiate Panhellenic councils have reached a record high. With the increase in numbers come positive effects. “I feel like Greek Life growing on campus helps us all grow closer as a college. It is getting more people involved with things because once you are in Greek Life, you want to get involved in other things and meet more people,” said Carter. Carter encourages one to join a Greek organization in order to experience it all for themselves. “My favorite thing about being a part of Greek Life here at Southeastern is it has helped me meet so many amazing people,” said Carter. “They have helped me get more involved on campus and they have helped me grow as a person and as a friend. I couldn’t imagine my college experience without Greek Life.” For more information on Greek Life at Southeastern, visit the Greek Life page at selu.edu.

CAB undergoes continuous improvements with new director BY LARSHELL GREEN Staff Reporter

Whether a sea of green and gold appears to indulge in free food, support arises for fellow students in talent endeavors or echoes of trendy music fills the campus, students can thank the Campus Activities Board. Movie nights, the Miss Southeastern pageant and Strawberry Jubilee are just a few of the prominent events that CAB is in charge of on campus. CAB also offers countless speakers and annual events held during Homecoming week such as Gumbo Ya Ya. One of the main goals of CAB has always been to entertain and excite the student body, while continuously promoting school spirit. Recently, CAB has been under the rule of a new director, Nick Elliot. Previously, Todd McElroy led CAB. This is Elliot’s first full time professional job in this field. He also served on the programming board as a student for four years while at Missouri State University. Elliot, who is originally from St. Louis, studied at Missouri State University where he received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Art. Later, Elliot returned, earning a Master’s degree in Student Affairs and Higher Education. “I felt comfortable, and wanted to continue my education there,” said Elliot. According to Elliot, he was a part-time master’s graduate assistant for the programming board, where he helped the university with programs. Upon applying to Southeastern, Elliot participated in a phone interview before Homecoming week of last year. Because of all of

the events surrounding the week, there was a gap between his later in person interview on campus. “My job search was focused in working with a programming board,” said Elliot. “I wanted to follow the passion of the job, and the location. I could make work for me.” After the campus interview, Elliot says that it took another few weeks to get a call for a position. Despite this, after meeting the staff and students here, he made a decision about the new position offered to him. “I really enjoyed the people I met on campus, and that influenced my decision to work here,” said Elliot. “It felt like a home environment.” According to Elliot, he does not know a lot about the past of CAB. Because of this, he stated that figuring out what has or has not worked in the past will be a challenge. “It’s going to take time to build up that reputation of what CAB is,” said Elliot. “It won’t happen overnight.” Elliot’s main focus for CAB is to create an environment of learning and entertainment through student activities. As far as keeping or eliminating events and programs on campus, Elliot plans instead to make them bigger and better through the survey of students. According to Elliot, he plans to get feedback from the student body on other possible events to introduce or improve. He believes that research from the students, including ones that work in the CAB office, will contribute valuable information. “Having that connection with students, and being able to see those smiles on their faces as being able to help create memories for the students here is enjoyable,” said Elliot.

The Lion’s Roar / Larshell Green

New CAB director Nick Elliot joins the family of green and gold. Elliot remains excited about leading the organization which is known for thrilling the campus while promoting school spirit during events like Gumbo Ya Ya. Elliot remains hopeful of his future as the new director. He enjoys the day to day surprises that come with his new position. “You never know what’s going to come next,” said Elliot. “Every day is going to be different according to the students and weather. Event planning is a wild area, it keeps it exciting.” For more information on CAB activities and programs, visit the Southeastern homepage or call 985-549-3805.

Organizational News is due on the Friday before publication by 10 a.m., with a limit of 150 words.

BGSO

The Biology Graduate Student Organization (BGSO) organized a clean up of North Oak Park in Hammond, LA on Saturday, December 5, 2015 as a way to give back to the community before departing for winter break. The BGSO has been cleaning its adopted street through the Hammond Litter Watch program on a quarterly basis, but recognized that their efforts would be better spent this month on cleaning up the park that is frequently full of community members and Southeastern students. Ten full bags of trash were removed from the park and the surrounding areas in an effort to help maintain the beauty of North Oak Park.

CSA

The Southeastern Christian Association is sending out an invitation to all SELU students to join us on Tuesday, February 16 for our organization’s screening of the Christian feature film “Courageous.” Admission is free. This event will begin at 7:30 p.m. in Fayard Hall Room 107. We would also like to invite all SELU students to join us on Mondays at 7:30 p.m. in Fayard Hall Room 107 for the SCA’s weekly Bible study. You can also connect with the SCA on our Facebook page.

DSQ

The Nu Delta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. will be conducting a shoe drive from Feb. 15 to 17. The donation box will be located on the westside of the Student Union from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. We will be accepting gently used or new pairs of shoes to donate to the House of Serenity in Ponchatoula.

Divsion for Student Affairs

The Division of Student Affairs’ Ambassadors will be hosting an Emerging Leaders’ Retreat. If you are wishing to get involved on campus, wanting to become a leader within your organization or if you are already a leader and want to further improve your skills, we encourage you to sign up. The retreat will be held at Camp Istrouma March 4 to 5. The cost is $20 per participant; however, if your organization sends two or more leaders, price goes down to $15. Registration forms can be found in the Office of Student Engagement or on the DSA webpage on selu.edu. All forms must be submitted to the office by February 19.

History and Political Science TA Office

This semester, the History and Political Science TA Office will be collecting donations for the Southeastern Student Food Pantry. The drive began Wednesday, January 13 and will run through Thursday, April 21. You may bring any items to the HIPS TA Office in Fayard Hall Room 338. The items that the Food Pantry are most in need of include: rice, pasta, pasta sauce, canned fruit/fruit cups, tuna, canned meat, packaged/canned/boxed meals, dry (powdered) milk, cereal snack, foods-crackers, granola bars, peanut butter and jelly. They also accept toiletries and school supplies.

PKA

Members of Mu Nu Chapter attended the Pi Kappa Alpha International Fraternity’s Chapter Executives Conference in Memphis, TN. The three-day event provided best practices and hands-on training for chapter presidents, treasurers and recruitment chairman. Over the course of the conference, chapter

leaders Austin Rogers, Taylor Bryant, David Murden and Alex Gondolfi worked with professionals in the fields of organizational leadership, finance, talent acquisition, health and safety programming and marketing to help them lead Mu Nu Chapter and make a positive impact on the Southeasten community. The conference featured three educational tracks, one for chapter presidents, treasurers and recruitment chairmen respectively. Additionally, general sessions addressed bystander intervention, understanding personal values and servantleadership. The Chapter Executives Conference is one of the eight PIKE University events held annually across the continent with over 3,500 annual participants. The mission of PIKE University is to develop and provide educational programs aimed at fostering leadership, management and personal development skills in order to prepare college men for success in life.

Program of Communication Sciences and Disorders

Southeastern’s Communication Sciences and Disorders Program is excited to announce that our 2016 Campbell Conference will be held on February 26, 2016. M.A., CCC-SLP Annemarie B. Clancey will be presenting a one-day course on Executive Cognitive Functioning: Developing and Utilizing a Conceptual Understanding of ECF and the Application of Treatment Strategies Across School-Based and Adult Populations. Students can attend for $15 with presentation of a university ID. The registration fee for professionals registering before February 12 is $85. Registration increases to $110 on February 13, and on-site registration is $160. Please email campbell.conference@selu.edu for more information.

OPINIONS

THE LION’S ROAR

JANUARY 26, 2016 PAGE 3

Find your semester friend today William Schmidt Opinions Editor For me, yesterday was actually the first day of my Monday only class. With finishing my undergraduate studies last semester, I now embark on the journey of graduate school. Though I have already learned that they are strikingly different, some of the wisdom I gained from undergraduate is applicable as a grad student as well as applies to those who are undergraduate. When I first came back to college in the summer of 2011, I knew nobody. Though I was a shy and timid freshman, I still wanted to make friends. I believe we are social creatures by nature and human interaction is extremely important. Even if this means holding onto that friend you have had for as long as you can remember, finding the person you click with inside an organizational group,

in sports, Greek life, et cetera. A suggestion of one other important friend that you should look for at the start of the semester is what I deem a semester friend. What I mean by semester friend is that person that will help you get through this semester. Yes, you may have that lifelong friend, but what happens if y’all have opposite class schedules and can’t see each other. This is where the semester friend comes in. I would suggest trying to find someone that may be in multiple classes with you. As your college career progresses, you will start to have more and more classes with people in the same major as you and most likely y’all will be taking classes together even outside of your major. Especially if you will be graduating at the same time. Take this time, early in the semester to get to know them, set up a plan to study together, talk about how y’all both may be free for a couple hours and can study together in the library. This will be crucial when one of y’all may get sick or have to miss a class for some reason. You have

that emergency contact where you can say, “I missed class and need the notes cause we have that huge test coming up and I have to pass.” And if y’all have been hanging out all semester, you know if you could trust them with one of your most precious commodities in college, your class notes. Yes, the semester is just starting, but believe me when I say that it will fly by, especially after the Mardi Gras holiday. Having a semester friend not only allows you to have social interaction with someone, maybe make a lifelong friend, but it gives you that person that can help you get through your academic year and if you are like me, you need every advantage. I am no exception to the semester friends. I am working on it at this very moment. But, I will say this, some of those semester friends I never talked to after the semester. But was I glad I had them when I did. Others, we may hardly see each other but when we do, it is like we just saw each other and we pick up right where we left off; as the oldest of friends who never said goodbye.

Living in an offended generation Megan Ferrando Editor in Chief Well young college folks, how will we be remembered as a generation? We are the millennials, the internetobsessed, the wander lusting souls, the free-spirited, the open-minded. Oh, and the easily offended. We are the generation where everything is personal. Everything is a bad case of microaggression. As Ms. Norbury of “Mean Girls” would probably tell us, “Raise your hand if you have ever been personally victimized by the world.” Slowly every millennials hand would creep into the air. And the middle aged and older folks’ hands would likely jump up enthusiastically. Despite our label as the “easily offended,” this is not just an issue of our generation. Today, especially in the past year, society has politely asked everyone to walk on eggshells. Society has told the person across from them, “It’s not me, it’s you.” With the continuously growing increase of social media, it is not difficult to find something that is offensive. In fact, it seems

people have even been on the hunt for a reason to cry victim. To glance at the bigger issues lately, can I remind anyone of the controversies over the confederate flag and the confederate-related monuments around New Orleans? These iconic parts of history have been around for years and years. In fact, many of the monuments in New Orleans were erected between 1884 and 1915. That’s a long time. Yet, suddenly they must be taken down. Suddenly they are offensive. Before anyone rips this page up because they don’t care about reading a “basic white girl’s” opinion regarding issues that go all the way back to race and history, let me tell you that I understand why people want these statues taken down. Many view these statues as a way of honoring white men who supported slavery during the Civil War. Just as someone would not want a statue of Hitler erected, others feel displaying a statue of these men is supporting something we are obviously against. However, that is not how I view it. Yes, some of these men represented in the statues may have even been slave owners, but that does not mean the statue was erected to support slavery. It is quite obvious, if I can speak for the majority

of Americans, that we believe slavery is wrong. I view the statues simply as a part of New Orleans history. Taking the statues down, which is what was voted to happen, does not erase all the history the city holds. Instead, it can stand as a reminder of how far we have come as a people. Our offense does not begin and end with monuments and flags however. People have been finding offense over remarks made my celebrities, little jibes made by a Facebook friend, comments made over dinner and the list continues. In a way, overreaction over every remark that we heartily disagree with, especially if it is made by a journalist, TV newscaster or other can diminish one’s freedom of speech. Yes, I am appalled by some of the comments or jokes people can make about racism or sexism, and more, but we are in America where people have a right to speak what is on their mind. If a newscaster fears the loss of his job if he speaks his true feelings, then where is the freedom of speech in that? I don’t think this means we should ignore something when a testy comment is made, but we should pick and choose our battles. Was the offensive comment made by a singer and will it quickly blow over next

What issue do you believe society gets offended by for no reason and why?

Virginia Eber Sophomore, Elementary Education People get too offended over breastfeeding in public. I feel like babies need to eat. It’s natural.

week? If so, let it stand as representation that people view things differently and stop listening to their music. Was the offensive comment made by our current president? Okay, that one needs some attention. As the generation living in a world where huge, historical movements are taking place, aka, the legalization of samesex marriage and having our first black president to name a couple, we will be reading about and talking about these movements for generations on. Our generation will be discussed in history books. What do we want them to say about us? Let’s take a breath now and let it not be the generation who was easily offended. Decide what you want to fight for, stand up for yourself and your friends, but don’t let every comment, every song and every historical icon become a personal attack that you must fight against. I find it so important to be aware of other cultures and be nonjudgmental towards people we deem “different,” but it is equally important to be aware of the fact that people’s backgrounds often build up their personal views which are sometimes offensive. For this reason, hear what they say with a grain of salt, politely share your view and move on.

April Sutton Freshman, Music One’s identity or personality. Anything that you believe, everyone is offended by. Everett Junda Sophomore, Communication Sexuality, people antagonize it too much. It shouldn’t be a relative issue; positive or negative. Macauley McGee Freshman, Psychology Political issues, people can get really touchy about it. Lindsy Brown Senior, Art Being unique, they get offended by how somebody looks in public, and think they are better than them. Seth Guerra Freshman, Music People should be more open to actually discussing their beliefs with each other.

We need trees to sit under on campus Kelli Meynard Staff Reporter Every morning on my long walk past Friendship Circle to the art buildings, I would pass War Memorial Student Union Park. It made me happy to see a place where students could tie up their hammocks or talk with their friends under the trees. I myself have studied at the tables and have enjoyed my lunch in the small piney wood. When I found out the university was going to cut the trees down, my first thought was that I felt sorry for

the hammock sleepers. I’m sure they are the most bummed out. War Memorial Student Union Park had the perfect trees for taking a hammock nap and I never got to test it out. I will never know the sweet sensation of taking a hammock nap in War Memorial Student Union Park and neither will the rest of us who never had a chance to tie up their hammock. Other than hammocks, the university does not have enough shade and quiet areas around the Student Union. There are more tables and benches being put up, as well as walkways being made. I am super excited about the walkways, no more muddy shoes. However, I wish that there

were more places like the War Memorial Student Union Park. A quiet, shady place filled with tables and benches is all I ask. We need more places, other than Friendship Circle and the greenery by Quizno’s, to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The worst time of year is August and September when it is 100 degrees outside and we are all covered in sweat. It is nice to have shady places to sit down if we choose to stay outside. Most students hangout around the Student Union in the little shade provided, and I think people would come outside more if we had places that provided shade. If you did not already know, the pine trees in War Memorial

Student Union Park were leaning and I understand that they could possibly become hazardous to the surrounding buildings, but that is why they should plant more trees. Yes, I know that it takes a while for trees to grow, but there is always the option of gazebos. There was a gazebo my friend and I used to sit at every day by the art buildings, and they tore it down last semester. One can imagine how mad I was because I love gazebos. That is why putting gazebos in War Memorial Student Union Park sounds like a great idea to me, as well as around campus. If it takes too much time to replant trees and for them to grow, then other forms of shade need to be created.

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Editor in Chief Opinions Editor Campus Life Editor Sports Editor

Megan Ferrando William Schmidt Megan McCormick Heather Jewell

Distribution Jake Treadway Advertising Assistant Nicholas Walsh

Administrative Assistant Heather Collins Coordinator Lorraine F. Peppo Director Lee E. Lind

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

PAGE 4 JANUARY 26, 2016

THE LION’S ROAR

Shattered Faculty exhibit Illusions shows variety of

original work BY WILLIAM SCHMIDT Opinions Editor

BY HEATHER JEWELL Sports Editor

Review The world has been weeping these last few weeks after the deaths of multiple iconic figures reached the ears of the public. Eagles’ guitarist Glenn Frey struck his last note, and David Bowie donned his last outfit as he was laid to rest. I won’t try to pretend to know these great individuals a great deal, however my heart weighs heavy in my chest with their passing. The farewell salutation that brought me to tears was in fact the passing of British actor Alan Rickman. We, fellow students, are the “Harry Potter” generation, and when J. K. Rowling whispered the meaning of “Always” to Mr. Rickman when he became Professor Snape, she put into place one of the greatest aspects of the entire Harry Potter movie series. These men brought things into our lives that wouldn’t have been possible before and gave people joy from watching them. Other than his role as the infamous potions master of Hogwarts, Rickman played the Sheriff of Nottingham in “Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.” His role in that film was an entire decade before he would don the black ropes of Snape, and he filled each villain with immense life. In “Harry Potter,” he turned a man everyone loves to hate into someone we could in fact, begrudgingly, hate to love. He was a git, slimeball and jerk, sure, but a coward? I’ll not open that can of worms, but Rickman himself was loved despite the role he played. Oftentimes peoples’ dislike of a character can slip onto the man who portrays them, but that was not the case for Rickman. Furthermore, knowing the meaning of “Always” in that first film allowed him to add more depth to Snape with small gestures and cues that would not be picked up on until fans left the final credits of the final film and rushed home to binge watch the series hoping to catch the slightest clue as to what they finally saw was the story of Professor Severus Snape. Bread crumbs. Tiny bread crumbs laid out in each film, giving a glimmer of light to the man that lay behind the sullen face. The world is grieving for the loss of these men. They leave behind family and friends. The internet is flooding with sorrows from fans and yet for myself it does not feel that Rickman is truly gone. Being a celebrity is its share of a curse, but since he has appeared in multiple films, one only needs to turn on the TV to watch him in action again. When Robin Williams passed away, it took me two months until I was able to watch a film he was a part of, and when I slipped in the VHS of “The Dead Poets Society,” I again experienced the feeling of hope that life would turn out okay. These great men may be gone, but they will be remembered. Always.

Though the Contemporary Art Gallery has been filled with the artwork of faculty, the official art gallery opening featuring variations of styles of work took place last week. On Thursday, January 21 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., CAG held a reception with light snacks as students, faculty and visitors viewed the work of the university’s faculty and staff for the Department of Fine and Performing Arts. Though some students came for class credit, they were excited by the experience gained from the night and having the chance to see the work of artists they knew. “I came here tonight, honestly, for class credit but now that I’m actually here, I’m really happy cause I got to see a lot of awesome art work,” said sophomore graphic design major Lauren Giambelluca. “I was just telling my friend that I go to art exhibits all the time in New Orleans, but I forgot how awesome it is to come to more personal things like this cause art just means so much more when you know the artist personally over other [artists].” The art gallery hosts a number of shows each semester, and one of the attractions was how some of the art pieces seemed to be of a larger scale than those of the past. “Everything seems a lot bigger,” said junior graphic design major Kathryn Shoultz. “Usually, it will be a lot smaller pieces. [painting instructor] Jim Graham’s painting is huge on the wall. His stuff, I’ve always seen 30 to 40 inches long, but that one is ginormous. Everything is bigger scale this time.”

The Lion’s Roar / William Schmidt

Work of faculty was displayed around the Contemporary Art Gallery for the faculty exhibition. Attendees view Jim Graham’s “Empty Islands” on oil. Along with some of the students realizing that various displays of the art work was at a larger scale than in the past, other students recognized the time and effort that some of their favorite art professors put into the work as well as remembering how that teacher’s particular talent is helping mature and improve their personal artwork. “[drawing lecturer] I am totally bias to Michael Aldana’s ‘The Elation of Bondage,’” said Shoultz. “I love his work, but I personally struggle with abstraction. Everything I draw is very realistic so right now he is actually teaching me to abstract my work. That [‘The Elation of Bondage’] is something that I can kind of base myself off of and work towards that goal and getting to that level Michael is at.” Some faculty for the opening were eager to explain their art work as well as what the meaning behind their wood cut pieces. “These are really the residue of the process of making images,” said instructor/drawing coordinator of Fine & Performing Arts Benjamin Diller. “Working through ideas and they are presented in such a way that they are sort of

random on the wall and also embedded with other books. I work within them and flanking them are wood cut pieces that are more iconic graphic and symbolic of social, political systems from the past and can connect with some contemporary issues.” Shoultz admitted that she has seen the show before, but plans to walk through numerous times. If you were unable to make the opening are have not yet visited the gallery, make sure to do as the faculty encourages students to take the time and think about the deeper meaning of the exhibit. “I hope they can look at something and have a newfound respect for tactile objects, storytelling, image making and to revisit symbols that they may be aware of,” said Diller. The current exhibition will continue to be open until February 19 and is located at 100 East Strawberry Stadium. Hours of operation are from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday with additional hours on Wednesday until 8:00 p.m. The gallery is open from 8:00 a.m. on Friday and closes at noon.

Retired professor publishes Louisiana inspired collection BY LARSHELL GREEN Staff Reporter

Recently retired English professor Dr. Norman German has published a collection of short stories, titled Dead Dog Lying and Other Stories. Most of the stories are set in Louisiana, and include its culture as well as German’s outdoor experiences and other personal events. “The story ‘Dead Dog Lying,’ set in Hammond and Ponchatoula, is representative of my writing style and themes,” said German. “Plus, it gave birth to a number of characters who reappear in other stories in the collection, so it became the title story to Dead Dog Lying and Other Stories.” German grew up in a middle class neighborhood in south Lake Charles. He later attended McNeese State University where he graduated in 1973 after earning a History degree. At the University of Texas, German earned an M.A. in English and Philosophy. He then returned to Louisiana where he earned a Ph.D. in English at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. After being “budget-cut” from Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana, German applied for a one year position in the English department at Southeastern. “The department head, Dr. Sue Parrill, invited me for an interview,” said German. “In August of 1988, I drove through the last arm of a hurricane to an abandoned campus, and Dr. Parrill was the only person I saw in D Vickers.” German continued to write while teaching daily and was offered a tenure-track position from Dr. Parrill at the end of the year during his annual evaluation. “With some luck, a modicum of talent and a lot of hard work, that year I published several short stories, a gaggle of poems and two scholarly articles,” said German. German officially retired from

Southeastern on January 5, 2016. Before his retirement, German wanted to create many of his stories into a commemorative collection. Because of changes in the publishing industry, German sought out the help of his colleague Dr. Jack Bedell, editor of Louisiana Literature Press, for ideas. “Right away, he [Bedell] said that UL Press in Lafayette was looking for additions to its Louisiana Writers Series,” said German. “I was fortunate to get a preliminary reader and a later editor who gave me some great advice regarding how to arrange the stories to create an artistic unity.” German’s collection spans over thirty years of him writing. Instead of focusing on themes in his writing, German allows morals to naturally appear in the characters and their actions. Although identity and selfdefinition can be seen throughout the collection, German admits that he is also intrigued by self-deception and subliminal motives. “The stories are aligned so that they start in New Orleans and move west along I-10, then leap into Texas with the last story,” said German. “The stories range from the nostalgia of childhood to the pragmatism and sometimes cynicism of adulthood. I would like to think the stories are a microcosm of Louisiana, seething with snakes, hurricanes, fish, fights, love and the intrigue that occurs when the ne’er-do-well meets the toogood. Taken all together, I hope the stories shine a hard light on society’s misfits: the misshapen in mind and body, including children mystified by the adult world, and grown ups trying— but never quite managing—to get it right.” German’s Louisiana roots influenced the addition of outdoor experiences, especially fishing, camping and hunting in every story of the collection. “In ‘Sportfishing with

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Cameron,’ a man gets his just reward for fishing in the saltwater tank at the Aquarium of the Americas in New Orleans,” said German. “In ‘Controlled Burn,’ a female game warden who pursues a legendary poacher is named after a road sign—Cecilia Henderson. The entire collection’s stories are strung out along I-10 from Lake Charles to New Orleans, with many characters named after towns: Scott Cankton, Uncle

Elton Jennings and Aunt Iota Estherwood.” Although German draws inspiration for his books from Louisiana culture, his experiences in his childhood and nature, some of his experience in real estate has also inspired some of his work. “For the next 20 years, I renovated one distressed house per summer, then either used them as rentals or sold them immediately,” said German. “In addition to providing me

with a lot of fodder for writing material, that avocation allowed me to retire when the timing was right. From the story collection Dead Dog Lying, ‘Merger Talks’ and ‘The Threshold of Plenty’ couldn’t have been written without my experience in real estate.” German is currently working on earning a Master’s degree in Wildlife Biology at McNeese State University. His books can be found on Amazon.com.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

THE LION’S ROAR

JANUARY 26, 2016 PAGE 5

Southeastern channel nationally recognized BY KELLI MEYNARD Staff Reporter

The Southeastern Channel recently won National Videographer Awards for 16 student productions such as: music videos, short films, promotional spots, public service announcements, a documentary, sportscast and entertainment show. These pieces were written, directed, filmed, edited, anchored, produced, hosted and reported for the Southeastern Channel. The students have been taught by an Emmy-winning Southeastern Channel staff and have won 12 Emmys themselves. The Broadcast team has been honored as first in the nation two years running by College Broadcasters, Inc. and has been named first place “Best College Television Station in the South” many times by the Southeast Journalism Conference. “These prestigious awards show that our students continue to produce television, film and video work that’s universally recognized as the best in the nation,” said Southeastern Channel Manager Rick Settoon. “Once again they’re honored as the country’s elite in high-quality college production. It’s a tribute to their talent, creativity, work ethic and high standards of quality.” The “Award of Excellence” first place winners included the short film “GPS,” which was produced and directed by Kayla Hill with help from her production team members Colton Vickers, Adam Hebert and Cady Carreras; the music video “All About That Bass,” which was directed by Danielle Shearer, Sarah Barbier, Rachel Taylor and Kristen Roussel; a video promotional spot for the student sportscast, “The Big Game,” produced by Shearer; a public service announcement, “Save Water,” produced by Roussel and a public service announcement, “Get Active,” produced by Barbier. The “Award of Distinction” second place winners included Richard Mills’s sportscast, “The Big Game,” anchored by Mills, Jonathan Poche and Taylor Rubach; the short film, “Sims in Real Life,” produced by Shearer, Taylor, Roussel and Hill; the public service announcement, “Recycle,” produced by Hill; and the public service announcement, “Northshore Recycling,” produced by Javon Monroe. “We’ve seen all of our students exhibit impressive growth, from beginning totally green to ultimately producing professional-quality stories, segments and full programs and shows,” said Settoon. “They’ve

Courtesy of Public Info

Many of Southeastern Channel student workers have been recognized and have gained valued experience during their time with the channel. learned the craft both in-front-of and behind the camera at the Southeastern Channel.” The students working with the Southeastern channel grow in skill and gain the confidence they need to be the best. “The channel has helped me by giving me confidence with my abilities,” said Shearer. “My skills have grown so much here. The channel gives you many opportunities to explore the areas that you’re interested in, whether it’s sports, news or entertainment.” Roussel is one of the first place winners who won because of her Public Service Announcement piece. She spent a tremendous amount of time working on this project and had fun doing it. “I produced a Public Service Announcement about water conservation,” said Roussel. “I wanted to create something that appealed to the audience’s emotions so I went out and bought a goldfish and used him to show that using too much water can harm the environment. I feel honored that my PSA won first place at the National College Broadcasters Convention. This particular project was my favorite that I have ever done, and I spent a lot of time filming and editing it. It feels great to be recognized for something that I had a lot of fun putting together.” Students have many different options and opportunities working for

the channel. They learn skills in every broadcasting position. “They’re headed for outstanding careers both in-front-of and behind the camera in the television, film and video industries,” said Settoon. “Some are focused on a career as a reporter, anchor or show host, while others are looking to become producers, directors, writers, editors, cinematographers, graphic artists and animators.” Working with the Southeastern Channel can help students find careers after college. “They want to work in news, sports, documentary production and entertainment, or as filmmakers and creators of movies, music videos, commercials and specialty videos,” said Settoon. “As such they’ll follow a large number of Southeastern Channel graduates from the past decade who’ve flooded the industry market and landed great jobs at television stations, film companies, video production houses and advertising and public relations firms throughout the country. These students are working daily as professionals on news, sports, entertainment, film and documentary programs along with commercials, infomercials and specialty videos.” To view the Southeastern Channel go to channel 199 (Charter Cable) or go to selu.edu to view a live stream.

Student rapper to perform at SXSW music festival BY KARSON SHARP Staff Reporter

A local style of music called bounce will be discussed at an upcoming event, the South By Southwest Music, Film and Interactive Festivals, also known as SXSW. Because it developed in New Orleans, bounce possesses a distinctly New Orleans sound. Although with the presence of Southeastern’s own student rapper, Dustin Fuller, bounce will hardly be the only local subject of the conference. Fuller, a junior marketing major, will be performing at SXSW under his stage name Magi. According to Fuller, he has been performing for three years, and he was eager to share the subjects and focuses of his music. “Right now most of my music is mostly geared towards generating my own sound,” said Fuller. “I rap about my life, the city that I’m from, the issues that I feel negatively affect my culture, I also keep it fun by rapping about some of my hobbies amongst other things. Right now I’m focused on building my brand, so I haven’t touched too deep into current events yet but I’m really looking forward to it later in my career.”

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) A gracious Lamb can learn more about a problem-filled situation than one who is openly suspicious of what could be happening. A friend might offer some welldirected advice. TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Getting adjusted to an unexpected change might be difficult for the Bovine who prefers things to go according to plan. But help could come from a most welcome source. GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) This could be a good time to get a head start on those career-related plans. The sooner you check out the pluses and minuses, the sooner you can act on your information. CANCER (June 21 to July 22) A personal situation you thought would no longer present a problem suddenly could produce some surprises. Try to sort things out with the help of trusted colleagues. LEO (July 23 to August 22) An upcoming move holds both anticipation and anxiety for Leos and Leonas who have some big decisions to make. Advice is plentiful, but it’s up to you to decide which way you want to go. VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Someone from a previous project could provide valuable guidance on how to handle a current problem, especially where it might involve a legal matter. LIBRA (September 23 to

October 22) A business situation presents some unexpected complications. But rather than try to handle them all at once, it would be best to deal with them one at a time. SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) You just might get what you want, despite the odds against it. In any event, be sure to thank all those people involved who believed in you and went to bat for you. SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Before you even hint at an accusation, remember that you’ll have to prove what you say. So be sure you have what you need to back up your comments. CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) A romantic situation takes an unexpected turn that favors some Sea Goats, but causes others to reassess how they’ve been handling the relationship. AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) A surprise turn of events could unsettle the Water Bearer. But it also might help open up an entirely different way of working out an important matter. PISCES (February 19 to March 20) A smoothly running operation could bump up against an obstacle. This is where your ability to assess situations and make adjustments can restore things to normal. BORN THIS WEEK: Your kindness is legendary, and so is your strong sense of responsibility. (c) 2016 King Features Synd., Inc.

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Fuller also recounted his experience in live performances. “I performed live a couple times, but my favorite performance would have to be the NAACP talent show in the Spring 2015 semester,” said Fuller. “I killed it. The audience was amazing. I came in 2nd place, but it’s weird because if you ask anyone who went to the show they’ll probably tell you I won which is pretty cool.” Fuller shared that he will be performing at SXSW 2016, something he eagerly anticipates. “It’s probably the biggest opportunity I’ve been presented with yet,” said Fuller. “I plan on taking full advantage of it. I’ll represent New Orleans and Southeastern to the fullest.” Finally, Fuller talked about his background in music and his particular style. “I’ve been recording for about three years now, but I’ve been in love with rap since about 3rd grade,” said Fuller. “I actually incorporate a variety of styles in my music, I try to switch it up a bit from time to time depending on the song.” As for SXSW, where Fuller will perform, a huge focus this year will be the hip-hop style New Orleans bounce. Bounce will be the subject of a panel discussion called “Ya Heard Me! New Orleans bounce,” which will feature many notable figures from the hip-hop scene. Brandon Hurst, a moderator of the panel discussion, explained bounce in detail. “Bounce is an energetic sub-genre of hip-hop which originated in New Orleans in the 1980s-1990s,” said Hurst. “It evolved from hiphop. Bounce is uptempo, high energy, dance/party music complete with call and response phrases. Much of today’s bounce is filled with sexual lyrics that promote twerking, but bounce has also been used to promote positive messages in the community.” However, bounce will not be the only subject of SXSW. A wide variety of music, film and interactive art will be showcased, and Hurst recommends everyone in the industries to attend.

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Junior marketing major Dustin Fuller has been performing live for three years and will perform his original work at the South by Southwest Music Festival and Conference “I would recommend anyone who is in the entertainment, music industry or anyone who is interested in getting into or even learning more to attend,” said Hurst. “This includes artists, managers, DJs, promoters, publicists, media outlets, bloggers, digital/technology specialists and curators etcetera. SXSW offers something for everyone, so I wouldn’t say it’s geared towards any particular audience, but attending shows that you take your career seriously because it is a great way to network, learn and expand your brand.”

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PAGE 6 JANUARY 26, 2016

THE LION’S ROAR

Lions track & field set new records at meet in New Mexico BY JONATHAN RHODES Staff Reporter

The Lion’s Roar / Kelonda Dixon

Devin King (above) previously participated in the pole vault competition at LSU Bayou Bengal Invitational. At the Cherry and Silver Invitational, King topped off two record-setting wins with a second place mark of 17 feet and 6.5 inches in the pole vault competition.

UPWARD BOUND continued from pg. 1 works with the high school students. “On Saturdays, they [high school students] come to the university and take courses,” said Abel. “Some from professors, others from certified teachers, and strengthen their skills so they can do better at their core courses in school and prepare them for college classes.” After the school year is done and summer arrives, the Upward Bound Program helps to enrich the student’s educational lives through the campus. “When summer comes, we bring the schools to campus, and they’ll live in the dormitories, eat in the cafeteria and attend classes for six weeks,” said Abel. “They are here Sunday through Thursday late. Their coursework in the 9th and 10th grade is to prepare them for the core curriculum so they can do better in that. When they become juniors and seniors, they work on college credit based on what their ACT indicates. If they are not in advanced enrollment English 101 and Math, they’ll take classes with us to get ready for that. If they are English 101 ready, they will take that with us.” The summer also offers students a chance to take fullcredit college classes, which according to Abel will change from year to year depending on faculty availability. Students will also participate in a physical fitness and cultural enrichment class.

“The kids who take college credit classes are taught by the faculty, and their coursework is exactly the same as Southeastern students would have,” said Abel. “The students in the summer participate in evening classes that help them build their skills in cultural enrichment and in getting more healthy. They will have one class in the evening that is a physical fitness type class, and the other will be a cultural class like drama or choir or art, visual arts and things like that. At the end of the summer, the students

Track & Field had a record-breaking meet last weekend at the University of New Mexico Cherry & Silver Invitational held at the Albuquerque Convention Center. The Lions broke eleven records elevating from their performance at the Bayou Bengal Invitational where only three records were broken. “If they [athletes] felt any pressure, they responded well to it,” said Head track & field Coach Sean Brady. “It may have been our best meet we ever had indoors, certainly this early.” On the first day of the meet, nine of the eleven records were broken. Senior thrower Jonathan Kinchen set his personal best on opening day as he finished first in the men’s weight throw, throwing 68 feet, nine

inches. Senior thrower Jimmy LeBlanc finished closely behind in the men’s weight throw at third place with 56 feet, 1.75 inches. Senior thrower Jermisha Frazier threw 61 feet, 6.25 inches and took second place in the women’s weight throw. Junior sprinter Dontrell Lyons finished second place in the 200-meter dash at 21.16 seconds. This is his third consecutive top-two finish. In the second day of the meet, Lyons also broke a record-time in the 400-meter dash at 46.32 seconds that was previously held by teammate senior sprinter Ashley Riley. Senior sprinter Raheem Brown qualified for the semi-final round in the 60-meter dash after finishing eighth place. Brown finished in fifth place in the semi-final round. Four of the top nine finishers in the

will put on a performance in what they have done with the cultural classes at the Columbia Theatre. And it is what we call cultural night and we invite the parents and family members to come attend.” According to Abel, a seventh week of summer is offered for the top students in which they will attend an education cultural enrichment field trip as well as have a chance to visit other college campuses. After the students become seniors and graduate, the Upward Bound Program will

600-meter run were the Lions. Senior middle distance runner and hurdler Andre Colebrook finished fourth with a personal best 1:18.59. Junior middle distance runner Alex Holden finished fifth and reached his personal best 1:19.20. Riley finished sixth with a personal best 1:19.38. Lastly, freshman middle distance runner Tajh Lewis finished ninth with a personal best 1:21.25. Both senior sprinters Nakiya Smith and Sharonna Williams recorded their personal best in the women’s 60-meter dash. Smith finished first in her heat and sixth overall with 7.61 while Williams finished second in her heat at 7.59. Williams would go on to win her section in the women’s 200-meter dash and finish 12th overall in 24.76. Sophomore Devin King had two record-

help the students start college as well as hoping that the students will finish in the time frame specified. “[The summer graduation] we call a bridge summer,” said Abel. “We will keep a protective hand on them, but they will become Southeastern students that summer. We pay for their tuition, fees and their living expenses to live on campus that summer. After that, they are enrolled in college, and hopefully they will complete a college degree in the time frame specified. Our

setting wins and topped it off with a second place mark of 17 feet, 6.5 inches in the pole vault. King was named Southland Conference Athlete of the Week after his performance at Bayou Bengal two weekends ago. “Devin jumped very well in Albuquerque in a nationally ranked competition,” said Assistant Coach Michael Bartolina. “Devin is maturing a lot and we expect in the next few weeks for him to be jumping significantly higher. He is already jumping pretty high, but I think he can jump even higher. This was another good step for him in competing at the national level with the top guys and he did really well.” The final record broken at the Invitational was broken by the 4x400-meter relay team. The team consisted of Lyons,

time frame is six years which is what the state requires for successful college completion. Our goals for them is that 80 percent will enroll in college initially after high school graduation. Of those that enroll in college, our goal is that 50 percent will complete their degree within six years, and we are always around 60 percent.” Since 1994, the Upward Bound Program has been able to do intensive follow-up studies to see how students who participated in the program finish up college.

Riley, Colebrook and junior sprinter Maverick Bowleg. They won the relay in 3:11.64 seconds, surpassing their previous school record of 3:16.09 that was set at the Bayou Bengal Invitational just two weeks ago. The Lions will be traveling to Birmingham, Alabama this weekend for the UNO Privateer Invitational but not everyone may be competing. “We are gonna take a little load off from competition,” said Brady. “We may not compete everybody. Right now we have to get our bodies rested and healthy and start training for next week, and we will see how things are going throughout the week and make some decisions on what we will compete in.” For more information and statistics visit lionsports.net.

“We do follow ups,” said Abel. “The follow ups we do now are much more intensive than in the years we did before. From ‘94 and on, we can tell you that about 80 percent of the students, as much as 84 of the students, enrolled in college. Out of that number, about 50 percent have completed a degree which is astonishing when the Southeastern completion rate is about 36 percent. We are about 14 points higher, and we are taking the students that are expected to be lower.”

SPORTS

THE LION’S ROAR

JANUARY 26, 2016 PAGE 7

Head Coach Sean Brady: Leading 14 years of success Coach, who led student athletes to the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championship, sits down for an interview with The Lion’s Roar BY JONATHAN RHODES Staff Reporter

Head track & field/cross country Coach Sean Brady is entering his 14th season at Southeastern. During those fourteen years under Brady, 81 student-athletes have qualified for the NCAA Mideast Regionals and 17 student-athletes have competed in the NCAA outdoor Track and Field Championships. Brady started his coaching career at LSU in 1996 as a volunteer assistant. After two seasons, Brady went to Utah State in 1998 as an assistant coach. During his time there, Utah State won two Big West Conference Championships. In 2002, Brady became the head coach of Southeastern and under his tenure Southeastern student athletes have set 50 new school records and continue to break more. During the 2009 season, Brady saw three school records broken and five athletes qualify for the NCAA Mideast Regional. He also went on to win Southland Conference Coach of the Year that same season. Coach Brady talks about the team and how he has achieved success in his career. The Lion’s Roar: How do you feel about this upcoming season for the team? Sean Brady: I’m very excited about the prospect of what both men and women’s teams could

File Photo

do this season. Our men’s team is loaded. Although we don’t have the depth of teams in the past; this is the best group of individuals in my 15 years as Head [track & field/cross country] Coach at Southeastern. TLR: You are entering your 14th season as Head Coach of the track & field/cross country teams, how does that feel? SB: Time passes quickly. It’s hard to believe that this is going on 14 seasons. The original plan was to stay for a few years, build the program and move on. Every year our teams got better and better. We had it; scholarships, assistant coaching positions and finally a beautiful track facility. Being a part of something and seeing our teams grow and prosper has been really special. Also, living in Southeast Louisiana has some perks. It is home and a pretty

good place to be. TLR: What do you think is different about coaching here at Southeastern than other schools you have coached? SB: Every university has their strengths and certain challenges. There is a certain amount of familiarity coaching and recruiting at Southeastern. Southeastern is home. I am a proud alum and bleed green and gold. TLR: What method of coaching have you developed that gets the results you have gotten out of your athletes? SB: My core coaching philosophy has never changed yet each new team and each athlete have different needs. I have a more humanistic style of coaching. I try to keep things very positive, very real and honest. Coaching athletes from our region takes patience and understanding. Work hard, train smart, don’t bury your athletes with unnecessary stress. TLR: How do you recruit student athletes and what do you look for in a student athlete? SB: The recruiting profile has changed over the years some. First thing we look at is the student athletes’ transcripts and test scores from high school for junior colleges. We have had great success recruiting great athletes, not necessarily the

best in their respective event. We believe if we can continue to get the best athletes, we will be successful. We have a very talented staff who knows how to coach and teach them to be great sprinters, jumpers and throwers. The intangible traits that every great athlete also plays a part in who we do and don’t decide to recruit. TLR: The 2009 season saw you win Southland Conference Coach of the Year, three school records broken and five student athletes were NCAA Mideast Regional qualifiers. What was special about that season? SB: The 2009 season was so special because it was a team of journeyman blue-collar athletes. The guys on the team worked harder than any group I have ever coached. It was the first championship Southeastern had won since joining the Southland Conference. Additionally, the meeting was one in the most dramatic fashion. It came down to the men’s 4 x 4 relay and we had to beat the best team in the conference and one of the best teams in the NCAA. Our guys found a way to do something special when their names were called. They won the race and the meet by one half of a point. It was truly one of my favorite experiences as a head coach. TLR: When did you decide to

Lions looking for second-straight Southland Win CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – The Southeastern Louisiana men’s basketball team faces off against Southland Conference-leading Texas A&M-Corpus Christi at 8 p.m. Tuesday in the American Bank Center. Southeastern (3-15, 1-4 Southland) returns to the court after an 8-day layoff to face an Islander (15-3, 6-0 Southland) squad that has won its last eight games. The game will be televised by CBS Sports Network (ATT U-Verse: 643, 1643 HD; Charter: 303, 813 HD; Cox (BR): 295, 1295 HD; Cox (NO): 315, 1315 HD; DirecTV: 221; Dish: 158 HD). Fans can also listen to the Southeastern Sports Radio Network broadcast, with Lance Pittman on the call, in the Hammond area on KSLU 90.9 FM, online at www.LionSports.

net or via the TuneIn Radio app. Links for live stats and audio are available on both the home page and men’s basketball schedule page at www. lionsports.net. As part of the national television exposure both coaching staffs will be participating in Coaches vs. Cancer Suits and Sneakers Awareness Week promotions designed to support the American Cancer Society. In addition to rocking the suits and sneakers look, Southeastern head coach Jay Ladner and his staff will be wearing special yellow laces in memory of 8-year-old Lacey Holsworth. For more information, and to purchase laces, fans can visit www. shoecarnival.com/Lacey. The Lions are coming off a 98-70 win over Lamar, their first conference victory of the season, back on Jan. 16 at the University Center in Hammond,

Louisiana.Southeastern, which shot a season-high 58.3 percent from the floor, was led by JaMichael Hawkins and Marlain Veal. Hawkins, who tied a career high with seven 3-pointers, led all players with a season-high 24 points. Veal, a freshman from Gretna, Louisiana, contributed a career-best 17 points to go along with five assists in the win over the Cardinals. Hammond native Zay Jackson leads Southeastern in scoring this season with an average of 13.7 points per game and is fourth in the Southland Conference with 4.8 assists per game. Joshua Filmore (8.8 ppg), a junior from Orlando, Florida, and Mo Greenwood (7.6 ppg), a freshman from Sharon, Mississippi, round out the Lions’ top healthy scorers. This season Southeastern is shooting

get into pole vaulting? SB: I have always been a bit of an adrenaline junkie. Pole vaulting was a natural fit. I started as a sophomore in high school to get out of some spring football practice. Once I figured out how to turn upside down, I was hooked. TLR: You went to school here at Southeastern and competed in pole vaulting. What was that like? SB: My experience as an athlete had great influence on me wanting to come back. Great coach in Andy Thiel and I made meaningful and lasting friendships while part of the team. TLR: Did going to school at Southeastern influence your decision to coach here? SB: I love the community and always believed that if Southeastern could build a facility that was on par with the other state schools, the opportunity to be successful would be there. TLR: You used to play football at Northwestern State as a defensive lineman, what was that like? SB: I played football at Northwestern as a defensive back. I doubt [an] 180 pound kid would be ready for the defensive line. It was a great experience and taught me so much about concept of team. Had it not been for a series of injuries, I may not have continued to pole vault. Life

45.1 percent (436-of-967) from the floor which ranks third in the Southland. The Lions have hit 34.3 percent (121-of353) from 3-point range, are 239-of392 (61 percent) from the free throw line and have been out-rebounded by opponents, on average, 36.3-to-33.2 per game. A&M-Corpus Christi is coming off a 97-76 conference win over the University of New Orleans this past Saturday, scoring a season high in points. Rashawn Thomas, a conference player of the year candidate, is averaging 17.8 points and a conferenceleading 8.4 rebounds per game to pace the Islanders. Brandon Pye (11.9 ppg) and Hameed Ali (10.3 ppg) are also scoring in double figures. This season A&M-Corpus Christi is shooting 43.2 percent (463-of-1072) from the floor, including 35.1 percent (126-of-359) from 3-point range. The Islanders have hit 324-of-427 (75.9

works in mysterious ways. For me, as well as many athletes that are drawn to the sport of track and field, the intrinsic rewards seem to outweigh the love of the locker room and true team participation I found in football. TLR: Why did you decide to start coaching after playing in college? SB: It wasn’t long after becoming a college student athlete that I decided to pursue coaching as a profession. I love everything about it. Training, lifting, running, video review, learning and recruiting. TLR: What is the hardest part of being a coach? SB: The hardest part about coaching is the lack of time you have to pursue other passions. I love my family, travel and all the great festivals that take place in South Louisiana. Our seasons start with cross country in August and go all the way through June with indoor and outdoor track. It’s a long season and leaves little time to pursue your other interest. TLR: Did you always think you would be this successful as a coach? SB: I always believed I would be successful. Even when our teams were not very good. I have always had confidence in myself and believe if I surrounded myself with like-minded people then great things are possible.

percent) from the free throw line and have been out-rebounded by opponents, on average, 37.7-to-36.5 per game. A&M-Corpus Christi has won 8-of11 on the court against the Lions since coming into the Southland. Southeastern returns to the court Saturday in Natchitoches, Louisiana, at in-state rival Northwestern State for another Southland Conference contest. The Lions will take to the University Center floor, Feb. 1, against McNeese State for the annual Jam the Jungle game. Advanced tickets for home basketball games can be purchased online at www.lionsports.net/tickets or through the Southeastern Athletic Ticket Office, located in Room 107 of the Dugas Center for Southeastern Athletics. For more information, contact the ticket office at (985) 549-5466 or 1-866-LION-TIX.

Community gathers to hear of MLK’s non-violent struggle for change MLK continued from pg. 1 “Generally, [what inspires me] Dr. King’s policy of nonviolence in the face of overwhelming oppression, and hate and physical violence, he stayed true to his principle of nonviolence,” said Gallagher. “It struck me because in a society today where everybody feels like they have to get somebody back for some injustice that is done to them, you really need to stop and think about what all he had to go through, and yet, he persevered in nonviolent protest.” Gallagher also commented on the number of the students in attendance. “It was a good turnout, but as always, you can have even more people who can come and hear about what effect he’s had on basically our society and the men of Alpha Phi Alpha would be better,” said Gallagher. “But it was a good turnout regardless.”

However, others in attendance also had opinions to share. Marcher and alumni of Alpha Phi Alpha Kappu Nu chapter Jeremy Lloyd shares his opinion. “Me particularly, I believe it was his message of equality and love that I have also adopted for myself,” said Lloyd. “I believe he said, ‘I decide to choose love, because hate is too strong a burden to bear.’ That’s a quote I live by because it teaches people to love each other, the golden rule, do unto others as they would do unto you, things like that.” The march, occurring the Tuesday after MLK Day, was right on the heels of the holiday. Marchers and those who organized the march explained that it was designed to be as close to MLK Day as possible, and the evening was chosen so as many people as possible could attend the march. Marchers considered this year’s remembrance walk a success and will be holding another at the same time next year. HOVERBOARDS continued from pg. 1

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because a lot of people have been getting hurt and falling,” said freshman health promotions major Christina Cutura. “One of my friends has gotten a concussion from falling off of a hoverboard. I just feel it’s easy to fall and there are so many people in the way it’s hard to control. I would say that they shouldn’t be allowed.” The ban will continue to remain in place with universities focusing on the safety of students. “Until something comes out that makes hoverboards safer or that the industry regulates them more, we’ve joined a lot of other universities and a lot of companies who have said for the safety of our students we are going to not allow them on campus,” said Mchodgkins. For more information on the Coasting Device Policy please visit the Southeastern website.

NEWS

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because it gives you more knowledge than you could ever get in a classroom. I’m not saying that a classroom isn’t a good thing, but you learn more real world stuff that is going on and you are not trapped in what’s happening in your life because you get to see other people’s problems.” For those who may consider the type of trip Jones participated and will be participating in once more, she encourages that one person can make a difference and that any trip abroad would be priceless. “Everybody can help change the world,” said Jones. “Just one person caring can lead to a thousand people caring which can lead to a million people caring. All it takes is one person to say, ‘I want to stop this.’ Even if it’s something as simple as tutoring in math and English, helping somebody with water filtration or something like that, there is no amount of money that could compare to the experience that you get. You couldn’t put a price on the knowledge and the experience from going to another country and just helping.” Jones is excited for the trip that she is able to participate in through One Heart Source. “If anyone is interested in going with One Heart Source, they can email christine.jones-4@selu. edu, and I’d love to meet up and chat about the program,” said Jones. To learn more about One Heart Source, visit oneheartsource.org. Also, if you would like to donate to Jones for her mission to help with airfare and other expenses, you may donate at gofundme. com/brfx332k.

Staff Reporter

Scientists from the university continue to donate Christmas trees to restore and protect damaged wetlands despite the program’s eight years of budgetary setbacks. The collection, which started after Christmas and will end after Mardi Gras, is headed by Dr. Rob Moreau of the Turtle Cove Environmental Research Station. According to Moreau, the program runs every year and has deployed about 35,000 trees since 1995. “We used to deploy thousands of trees each year in the early years,” said Moreau. Moreau also stated that the program was much bigger in the past with assistance from state grants and National Guard helicopter drops. The trees were deployed along with marsh grasses until assistance ended in 2008. Now, 15 to 20 student volunteers provide the

NATION

LINGERING FLIGHT DELAYS REMAIN IN THE WAKE OF BLIZZARD NEW YORK (AP) — Nearly 1,510 flights remain delayed or cancelled in the aftermath of a massive weekend blizzard that

slammed into the eastern U.S., wreaking havoc on travel in the nation’s busiest cities.

NEW GOVERNOR HASN’T MADE DECISIONS ON JINDAL-ERA LAWSUITS BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) Former Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal became embroiled in three high-profile lawsuits involving issues targeted by conservatives during his failed bid for the Republican

presidential nomination: Planned Parenthood, Common Core and same-sex marriage. His Democratic successor, Gov. John Bel Edwards, however, appears to be in no rush to wade into the controversies.

‘CABARET’ US TOUR STARS AN ACTRESS WHO SAYS ‘IT’S A DREAM’ Courtesy of Christine Jones

Christine Jones traveled to Cape Town, South Africa through One Heart Source to help aid in tutoring children in English and math, as well as, telling the importance in the future. She will return this summer.

Used Christmas trees help restore Louisiana wetlands BY IAN FISCHER

THE

labor, but they are no longer able to plant marsh grasses. “We see the impact in terms of land built,” said Moreau in regards to how he measured the success of the program. “I think early on when we were doing more trees, we built something like eight to 10 acres of land in the ‘prairie’ area of Manchac.” According to Moreau, the intent had been to “protect shorelines, build up land and to keep trees out of landfills.” Moreau and his colleague Dr. Gary Shaffer changed the strategy for last year and is continuing it this year. According to Moreau, they have a five-year permit from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to place the trees in ditches created by loggers. Their goal is to see if they will “one day fill the ditches.” Shaffer and his lab are developing a method for measuring its success. Moreau and the volunteer team

plan on deploying the trees on March 2 and 4. They will access ditches via the research center’s pontoon boat. Manager of Grounds, Landscape and Recycling Carlos Doolittle runs a drop-off site at the Sustainability Center. The on-campus site opened on January 5 and runs until the end of the month. It is open from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on Friday. “The recycling of the Christmas trees is a natural fit for the recycling program that operates out of the sustainability center,” said Doolittle who became involved in the program last year. As of January 14, the Sustainability Center collected 24 trees for the 2015 to 2016 holiday season. Visit the Southeastern website to see how you can donate and help the cause of Turtle Cove.

NEW YORK (AP) - The national tour of the thrilling musical “Cabaret” is about to launch and it’s led by a young

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woman who knows it intimately. After all, she watched it for a year on Broadway — from the stage.

WORLD

UN ENVOY LOWERS EXPECTATIONS AHEAD OF SYRIA TALKS ON FRIDAY GENEVA (AP) - Lowering expectations about his ability to help end Syria’s civil war, the U.N. special envoy announced talks between government and

opposition representatives will start on Friday to embark on a six-month process that he hopes will include civil society and women’s groups.

POLISH, LITHUANIAN AND UKRAINIAN BRIGADE TO BE READY IN 2017 WARSAW, Poland (AP)A new brigade consisting of Polish, Lithuanian and Ukrainian troops should be

fully operational in the region by 2017, Poland’s Defense Minister Antoni Macierewicz said Monday.

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