The Lion's Roar 02/02/2016

FEBRUARY 2, 2016 VOLUME 87, ISSUE 17

’ 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

INSIDE THE ‘ROAR’ Students petition against Consuming Fire Ministry

The Lion’s Roar / William Schmidt

see pg. 2

New book showcases history of Hammond

The Lion’s Roar / Karson Sharp

see pg. 5

Students snowed-in while marching for life in DC

Campus Life Page 2

Opinions Page 3

see pg. 8

Miss Southeastern quits role

BY MEGAN FERRANDO Editor in Chief

Art patron and Hammond philanthropist Marjorie Morrison died at age 99 on January 25, 2016. Morrison was the wife of former U.S. Congressman James Morrison of Hammond. She was a strong supporter of the arts, and has impacted many in the community. “She was the most active, energetic arts patron in this entire region,” said Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts Director Roy Blackwood. “There’s really nobody that has her reach or her influence. She could pick up the phone and call anyone and they would take her call. She was a valuable asset and a close personal friend of many, many of us here in town.” Morrison will be remembered for her impact and influence in the arts. She played a role in establishing the Hammond Regional Arts Center, was on the board of The Columbia Theatre, the board of Sims Memorial Library, the University Advisory Board and more. Morrison also reigned as the first queen of the Krewe of Omega in 1986. “Marjorie Morrison was one of the grand ladies of not only Hammond

but Washington, D.C.,” said alumni director Kathy Pittman. “She was always gracious and greeted everyone with a warm smile.” Morrison extended her reach to schools when the state eliminated funding for the arts in 1967. Morrison created the Arts Slide Lending Library, which ensured that all Louisiana children received art lessons. “She was tireless in her support of the arts and promotion of the importance of the arts,” said Blackwood. “She did to the best of her ability to facilitate arts in schools.” Morrison impacted not only artaffiliated programs, but the many people involved with them. She was passionate about arts, which she has shown through her efforts. “She was just a one in a million gal and we won’t see her likes again for awhile,” said Blackwood. “To have her resources and the interest and the energy is just critical for the work that she has done.” Morrison will be remembered for her impact towards Southeastern and the city of Hammond. “She was a great friend and advocate for Southeastern,” said Pittman. “Her legacy will be well remembered and she will be sadly missed.”

BY MEGAN MCCORMICK A new policy regarding the use of yard signs for organizational advertisement on campus has been put in place. As of January 5, 2016, organizations are prohibited to place yard signs around campus. However, those promoting major events, such as commencement, orientation and athletics are allowed. The policy prohibiting yard signs was revised because of the abuse regarding the privilege. Before, organizations were allowed to place yard signs around campus under the assumption that the yard signs would be removed after a few days.

“However, some organizations wouldn’t remove the signs,” said Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs Jim McHodgkins. “When the signs weren’t taken down after so many days, or weeks, our office would go to get them. The signs made our campus look unsightly.” Even though yards signs are forbidden, the use of flyers, posters, notices and other advertisements are still allowed. For those interested, a copy of the display must be sent to and approved by Student Affairs in Room 2409 of the Student Union. In addition to this, posting signs on anything other than bulletin boards is banned; this includes doors, windows,

Opinions Editor

see YOUNG pg. 9

News Page 8

LionsRoarNews.com

The Lion’s Roar / Megan McCormick

Yard signs for organizational use, such as churches or clubs, are no longer allowed on campus. These yard signs were taken down and currently lay in the Student Government Association office.

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hallways, poles, cars and trees. Also, an organization must get permission from the respective building coordinator before posting inside the building. Once signs are approved, they will be allowed to be posted 2 days before the event and must be taken down the day following the event. Posted signs are allowed to be taken down by building coordinators, the Physical Plant or by the University Police. “Even though the new policy will upset some people, social media is a big thing in this era,” said McHodgkins. “Yard signs used to be a big thing, but they aren’t a big deal anymore. Many students don’t even read them.” In the past, yard signs were used for many different events, including churches advertising free lunches or fraternity and sororities recruiting new members. However, with the office of Student Affairs now enforcing the new rule, organizations must find new ways to supply the campus with upcoming events or information. “I encourage organizations to use the social media, to get their members out there on campus to recruit new people to join or to get creative and get new ideas,” said McHodgkins. In addition to posting signs, organizations are always encouraged to send in organizational news to “The Lion’s Roar.” Organizational news is due the Friday before the upcoming issue date by 10 a.m. The news must meet the 150 word maximum to be published. The news can be submitted via “The Lion’s Roar” website or Facebook page. For more information regarding the new sign policies and other updated policies, visit the Student Affairs’ page on selu.edu.

Weather Tuesday H 76 L 52

Courtesy of Public Info

Marjorie Morrison, who died at age 99, will be forever remembered for her dedication to the arts.

New policy bans yard signs across campus

BY WILLIAM SCHMIDT On January 27, Miss Southeastern 2016 Brianna Young relinquished her title forfeiting her right to compete in the 2016 Miss Louisiana Beauty Pageant taking place June 23 to 25. Though Young is saddened with having to step down and release her title, she faithfully believes in her reasoning and knows the person who steps up and takes the title will represent the university with dignity. “The crowning moment and the title is something that I will hold onto as I further my college career,” said Young. “However, due to contractual issues, preparation for graduation, the opportunity to advance myself within my chosen career field and to prepare for graduation, my replacement will finish the reign I began and will represent our university. This decision was difficult but purpose driven. All

Sports Page 6

Marjorie Morrison passes away at age 99

Campus Life Editor

Courtesy of Alexis Flores

Arts & Entertainment Page 4

Budget issue raises concerns about higher education Emergency budget session concerning shortfall to begin on Valentine’s Day BY WILLIAM SCHMIDT Opinions Editor

One concern that is arising for the state of Louisiana is the possibility of budget cuts which includes Southeastern Louisiana University, a campus under the University of Louisiana System. According to a Campus Budget Update by President John L. Crain, “I recently joined other higher education leaders from across our state in a meeting with our new Governor, the Honorable John Bel Edwards. The subject of our meeting was the deteriorating condition of the state budget. In the current 2016 fiscal year which ends June 30, Louisiana faces a $750 million budget shortfall. Given persistently low petroleum prices, this shortfall is expected to exceed $800 million by mid-February when the Revenue Estimating Conference next meets. In addition, the 2017 fiscal year, which begins July 1, appears to be approximately $1.9 billion short of the necessary revenues to fund state expenditures at the same level planned in the current fiscal year.” The budget crisis will impact the faculty, staff and students of the university and according to the Campus Budget Update by Crain, “has resulted in a ‘perfect storm’ where our state’s fiscal health is concerned.” Other administration also raises their concerns on the issue. “This is an extremely difficult time in the state of Louisiana,” said Vice President of Administration and Finance Sam Domiano. “The projected budget deficits we face are

unprecedented.” With the raising concerns for the possibility of a shortfall in the 2016 fiscal year, Crain is working with the government in order to try and find a solution to the issue. “As indicated in Dr. Crain’s message to the campus community earlier this week, he is in discussion with fellow higher education leaders, the governor’s administration and the governor himself,” said Domiano. “The plan to address the mid-year budget shortfall must be proposed by the governor with approval of certain elements by the House of Representatives and Senate. Revenue measures that involve new or increased taxes require a two thirds majority support of both houses of the Legislature. Those votes and decisions will impact whether or not higher education must suffer additional cuts and what that amount will be.” Southeastern has to consider the timing of the budget cut among one of the major concerns with the possible budget cuts. “There are two major challenges that we face in meeting the potential five-million-dollar budget reduction,” said Domiano. “One such challenge includes the timing of the reduction. The University operates on a fiscal year, which runs from July 1 to June 30 of each year. Our ability to implement strategies to accommodate the reduction with less than five months remaining is extremely limited because a large part of budgeted funds are already expended or committed.”

see BUDGET pg. 7

Reminders Wednesday H 65 L 39

February 15 is the final day that Southeastern Louisiana University students can apply to graduate in spring 2016.

CAMPUS LIFE

PAGE 2 FEBRUARY 2, 2016

THE LION’S ROAR

Petition begins to end Consuming Fire Fellowship BY WILLIAM SCHMIDT Opinions Editor

Recently, students began a petition on campus that is also available online through Google Documents in order to remove and ban the Consuming Fire Ministries group as well as similar organizations from the university. Non-campus organizations and groups register through the university in order to exercise their constitutional rights, such as publicly speaking near the Student Union. This allows access to the campus in a manner in which university officials have the ability to set the time and place of such activities.. According to the petition, Consuming Fire Ministries justify “themselves with ‘freedom of speech,’ this group parades itself as a righteous cause in the name of religion; however, based on both their words and actions they have proven themselves [innumerable times] to be nothing more than a hate group.” One point that is mentioned in the petition is that Consuming Fire Ministries, who proclaim that they are a Christian group, is borderline harassing individuals

The Lion’s Roar / William Schmidt

Students gather together to sign a petition trying to ban Consuming Fire Ministries from being allowed to come to campus on the grounds that they may come in the name of religion are nothing more than a hate group. The petition has also gained online signatures as well. and groups of students for a variety of reasons. Some Christians who signed the petition agree with this statement. “I signed the petition because I believe even though I am a Christian, I believe that you shouldn’t harass people and it is in the Bible that you shouldn’t judge people,” said sophomore pre-engineering major Matthew Dyson. Other people who signed the

petition believe that it is wrong to preach hate to crowds of students. “Their God doesn’t respect other gods,” said freshman communication sciences and disorders major Peyton Reycraft. “They don’t respect other people by telling someone they are going to hell. My God is not a hateful God. I feel like the signs are too much, that they have written Muslims, homosexuals

are half the population. I feel that they need to take those signs down. It just sends people away. I am a lesbian-Christian and I can’t advocate for that at all.” Along with some believing that Consuming Fire Ministries is preaching hate, others believe that their message is not only sending the wrong message, but it may have detrimental aftereffects to those who hear what is being preached.

“You never know how someone is feeling,” said Dyson. “For them to just approach a random person and say, ‘Hey, you’re going to hell.’ What if they are already hopeless? Like I said, I am a Christian and I believe that God makes the final decision and if you are telling someone, that you don’t even know, that they are going to a place full of all kinds of evil, you never know what that person might be going through. They might go back home and commit suicide. I think there is a better way to communicate things; there’s a better way to get the message across.” According to the petition, “This is a student body petition created in efforts of banning the Consuming Fire Ministries from this college campus, on the grounds of being a public nuisance and using assaultive/ hateful speech. If a permanent ban is not possible, this petition also serves as a request to have the group relocated to a different area of campus, away from the high volume area of the Student Union.” Some students were in agreement that the group should be moved to a different location. “I would have them not form a barrier between the Union and

where we have to get to our next classes because people don’t have an alternative to get to their classes on time,” said Reycraft. Though the petition is to stop the Christian organization of Consuming Fire Ministries from coming to campus, students signing the petition are still okay with other Christian groups coming to campus and preaching in public. “These guys I don’t like,” said Dyson. “The other guys that just stand on the podium and teach from the Bible, they are cool with me cause they just preach. They don’t go around saying you’re going to hell. They’ll talk to you if you want to find out more about their religion.” With Consuming Fire Ministries following their constitutional rights and other students signing the petition in order to ban this specific group if at all possible, some hope that the university is able to see how much some of the student body hates the situation and hopes for a resolution. “I want the university to know that we dislike it,” said Reycraft. “We have snaps of how much we dislike it and how they stand out here and harass people and that they rant at people and ranting isn’t conversation.”

Delta Omega Alpha helps pre-profesional students strive in the real world BY KELLI MEYNARD Staff Reporter

Delta Omega Alpha is an organization for students interested in health care. This organization hopes to benefit students going to or thinking about going to medical school, veterinary school, podiatry school, pharmacy school, optometry school, nursing school, physical therapy and occupational therapy. DOA has a wide variety of speakers come in to talk to members about attending different medical schools. From physical therapy to veterinarian school, DOA speakers cover it all. The speakers mostly cover things like how to apply to medical school, requirements students need, scholarships that are available and how to make your application stand out. “We are a pre-professional honor society aimed at helping students achieve an advanced health care career,” said sophomore nursing major and DOA secretary Caitlyn Hoerner. “We have members

interested in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, nurse practitioner, physician’s assistant and many more. We bring in speakers from all around the country to tell students of these and similar careers.” Vice President of DOA Savannah Klier was recently accepted into LSU Medical School. The organization visited LSU last year and hopes to arrange another trip like this. “Last semester’s field trip to LSU Medical School was an incredible experience, and we’re working on arranging this semester’s field trip, hopefully to tour a Physician’s Assistant School,” said Hoerner. DOA does not just offer guest speakers, but they have numbers of events and community service options for its members to get more involved in the community. “This semester we’ve already had a representative from LSU’s School of Veterinary Medicine, and next meeting we will hear from Southeastern’s own nursing

school,” said Hoerner. “We also have a ton of extra events, including community service, to get our members more involved in the community.” Sophomore biology major with a concentration in integrative biology Andrew Killebrew finds joining DOA to be beneficial. “DOA has personally benefitted me by helping me get into the volunteer program at North Oaks Health System,” said Killebrew. “I was sitting in on a presentation from a faculty member from LSU Medical school, and we were discussing what builds a strong application for a potential applicant. The obvious topics were addressed such as MCAT score, GPA and also research, but my ears perked up when the presenter discussed the importance of volunteer hours.” After the guest speaker’s presentation Killebrew spoke with the LSU Medical professor and was provided with information that would help him gain volunteer hours. “I spoke with the presenter after the presentation and

asked him where I should go to become involved in the volunteer community, and he informed me that most clinics and hospitals would be willing to place me in a program to be a volunteer,” said Killebrew. “This was all it took as I took this information that was provided to me from the speaker at

our DOA event and went to North Oaks to enroll into their volunteer program. Since that meeting I have accumulated over one hundred volunteer hours along with priceless information from the many helpful and friendly doctors I have had the good fortune to meet.” Joining this organization is

about helping future medical students feel confident and informed. Students also can make connections and friends while being a part of something they are interested in. “At the end of the day, we just hope that providing these speakers and events allows

see DOA pg. 9

Meet Our

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

SCA

T h e Southeastern Christian Association is sending out an invitation to all SELU

students to join us on Tuesday, February 2 for our organization’s screening of the Christian feature film “War Room.” 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 Room107 for the SCA’s weekly Bible study. You can also connect with SCA on our Facebook page.

Correction- In volume 87, issue 16 printed on January 26, 2016, Southeastern Christian Association’s acronym was mistakenly identified as CSA. Southeastern Christians Association’s correct acronym is SCA. “The Lion’s Roar” regrets the mistake.

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OPINIONS

THE LION’S ROAR

FEBRUARY 2, 2016 PAGE 3

Thankful for no hoverboards on campus Elizabeth Brown Staff Reporter Recently, electronic coasting devices, or hoverboards, have been completely banned on campus including in all buildings, residence halls and on campus grounds due to their safety hazards. At first, this might sound ridiculous, but upon further investigations into these “hazards,” one might feel differently about them. For me, when I first found out about hoverboards, I felt like they were a waste of money and just a great way to be lazy. Not to mention, that they shouldn’t even be called “hoverboards.” Anyone that is a “Back to The Future” fan knows that a hoverboard doesn’t have wheels, for starters. Going back to the money and lazy issues, why would someone want to spend anywhere from nearly 200 to thousands of dollars just so they can stand on something and move at nearly the same speed as walking? Beside my own feelings on hoverboards, the fact that they have safety hazards completely convinced me that they are better off banned on campus at the very least. All across the world,

including but not limited to the United States, in the U.K. and even Hong Kong, there have been multiple reports of hoverboards catching on fire and/or exploding while charging or in use, causing injuries to users. According to nola.com, one report even includes a local house being destroyed because of a fire caused by a hoverboard in Lafitte, Louisiana, a small town less than 30 miles from New Orleans. I have seen countless videos and firsthand accounts of people falling off of hoverboards or crashing into things while riding hoverboards. Many U.S. airline industries, the United States Postal Service and even Amazon and other vendors have also banned hoverboards on flights, through shipping and completely ended or suspended sales on them. Additionally, many other United States college and university campuses, including the University of New Hampshire, Boston College and Georgia State University, to name a few, have decided to ban hoverboards or put restrictions on them. Furthermore, some states and cities, including New York, have even changed their laws to prohibit or restrict the use of hoverboards. With all the possible dangers and restrictions on hoverboards, I think it is safe to say that our campus, much less the world, is better off without them.

Megan Simon

Get rid of toxic people consuming your personal life William Schmidt Opinions Editor

What negative decision do you think Southeastern has made and why? They don’t have a Burger King. All we have is four fast food places to choose from. We are limited in choices. Termal Allen Freshman, Music I would try to focus on building better buildings instead of focusing on small things for students like parking. Skye Sullivan Senior, Psychology Traffic. They used to have a road that went through campus, but now you have to go all the way around. Cody Sanders Sophomore, Music Cafeteria food. With the amount of money we pay, I think they can provide a higher quality food. Evan Robinson Freshman, Criminal Justice

Throughout our life, people will come and go. I think we can all agree for the most part that some have been for the better and others, not so much. I believe that every person I’ve encountered has helped to shape who I am today. I live with no regrets. I may still think, dwell and get sad about something in the past, but I’ve learned from even the worse of mistakes and strive to always improve myself for the better. One goal that I started working on during the middle of last semester is getting rid of the toxic people in my life. Some of the people I had to “let go” of friendship wise are people that I have known for years, but our time together had come to an end. I will say this: I care deeply for the friends that I have, maybe too much at times. Others, I have tried to help but at the end of the day, I have to become a little egocentric and focus on myself. Some people in my life had just become so toxic they were stopping me from being the best person I could be. Yes, it did hurt, but one of the wisest decisions I did was letting them go. I am not

back on my past are the friends that I made while in junior high that I kept throughout high school, one specific friend coming to mind. When college came, it was safe to say that we had grown extremely close to one another but our lives were vastly different. I was unsure of where I was going, I would eventually need to take a few semesters off to figure my life out and life would also throw some unexpected curve balls that would make me even more different than I was at the time. As for my best friend, he would move along to complete a business degree with honors as well as finish a semester early. Needless to say, due to the complications of how different our lives were, the fates did not have it to where we should be long, lasting friends that were always together until the end. If I would have kept him as a friend, I am sure that I would have been that toxic friend in his life. I would have done nothing but slow him down from moving on to his bright future that he now has. Today, we still talk here and there, we aren’t the closest of friends like in the past, but we are acquaintances and I believe that it is okay to have a friend that was once the closest of friends become an acquaintance. Another college experience that comes to mind, which I know

is far too common for some, was how I dated someone that was wrong for me which made her a toxic person in my life. Needless to say, I lost another close friend while in college. It was not the person that I was dating, it was actually a friend that disapproved of the new girlfriend I had. My friend advised me to call it off because it was wrong and I would only get hurt in the end. But, by dating this person, I had become a toxic person to that friend and needless to say, we had to stop being friends because I was not benefiting her life anymore due to who I was dating. Thankfully, we are able to have casual conversations now because I learned from my mistake and I am no longer dating that person who was wrong for me for our relationship was completely toxic by the time we broke up. I will let you know that yes, I do miss some toxic people that I let go of. But, I believe that is a superficial miss. I am happier, my grades are doing better, the list goes on and on but I will say this, after letting go of those toxic people in my life, I have found a close-knit group of friends that I love and love me back. I have joined an organization, APO, that I love and that makes me feel like I fit in and furthermore, my health has improved. All in all, letting go of the toxic people is a win in my book.

The many benefits of getting involved on the campus Jonathan Rhodes Staff Reporter

I don’t like the way the shuttle runs. They need more drivers working at the same time. Sarah Zeringue Sophomore, Education

saying that we may not be friends in the future if the fates allow, but for now, the toxicity has got to go. Also, at the end of the day, we all need to realize that we are in college. We are here for a reason. College is way too expensive to just show up at. If you have no idea what you want to do with your life, I suggest you take a semester off and figure that out. It is not a sign of weakness or fault, sometimes we just need time to figure our lives out. That aside, we are here to get a degree. And if you don’t let go of those toxic friends or even acquaintances, then it will mess with your overall emotional state and possibly cause detrimental damage to your academic career. You may always focus on that other person, wonder how you could help them, go out of your way and over the top to help them; the list of what all you may do to help someone besides yourself is endless. Ask yourself though; how is this person benefiting me? If you can’t think of something, I highly suggest that you find a way to get them out of your life even if they were your best friend from way back when. People change. Friendships change. Life is always changing and moving forward even when we want to scream and need a break. One personal life experience that comes to mind when I look

and how to get internships. The Press Club is actually a big reason why I applied to work at “The Lion’s Roar.” Not only has being in a student organization helped me to reach some of my career goals, but it has also helped me to develop new friendships. These friendships are easy to develop because you and the other members are interested in the same things. Making friends through clubs and student organizations is also a good way to find out more about what events happen on campus and how you can participate in those events. If you are shy like me, you’ll want someone to hang out with on campus so you’re not alone most of the time. There are also many campus ministries on this campus that engage in extra-curricular activities and help you to grow spiritually. For me, that campus ministry is Lions for the Lamb where I get the same benefits of joining

a club, and also get to fellowship with other Christians on campus. Being in Lions for the Lamb has been like being in a family on campus that looks out for each other. Student organizations are geared to helping students do better in class as well as out of it. You can also learn a lot from the upperclassmen in these organizations. They have been there, know how to pass tough classes and what professors to take. If you really like sports, you should get involved with intramural sports. Students and employees of the Student Activity Center compete in a variety of sports depending on the semester. If you like organizing and being a part of big events, then join the Campus Activities Board. They offer a variety of events for the students of the university. There are plenty of options for extra-curricular activities on this campus. So don’t just go to school, get involved and get a better college experience.

Having the entire dorm of Zachary Taylor run on one unit. You can’t control the temperature.

When I started going to this school, I was very shy and did not see the benefits of joining a club or student organization. But, now that I am a junior and have been with the student organization for multimedia journalism the Press Club, I see how it can shape a person’s college experience. For me, joining a club is all about what you are interested in doing. Being a communication major focusing on journalism, the Press Club was the organization that piqued my interest. The Press Club has helped me professionally as a journalist and I have been given the chance to learn what is required to succeed in this field,

Jordan Blanchard Freshman, Sports Management

If you would like to submit a Letter to the Editor, email us at lionsroar@selu.edu or visit our facebook page at The Lion’s Roar.

Around Tinsley Hall, it’s not well kept up as the rest of campus. Corey Sapp Freshman, Political Science

THE LION ’S ROAR - STAFF

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES The Lion’s Roar is the official newspaper of the students of Southeastern Louisiana University. It has been in continuous publication since 1937. Submissions and letters to the editor are welcomed, but the editor of The Lion’s Roar reserves the right to edit all submissions for grammar, libel and available space or refuse publication without notification. Submissions must include the author’s full name and either phone number, e-mail or other contact information (not to be published). Faculty and staff members should include their title and department. Students should include their classification and major. By submitting an article for publication, the author understands that the submission will be edited.

Organizational News space is provided at no charge as a courtesy for university recognized Greek and Student Organizations. The space of such articles is limited to 150 words. Submissions of this Organizational News must adhere to the same polices as other submissions or letters to the editor, but must also include the name of the organization. All views expressed in The Lion’s Roar are those of the author or, if unsigned, those of the staff of The Lion’s Roar. These views should not be interpreted as the views of the administration, faculty or students of Southeastern Louisiana University. A single issue of The Lion’s Roar is free. Additional copies may be purchased for 50 cents

in the Old Student Union 1303 (Student Union West 1303). Annual mail subscriptions are $35 within the continental U.S. The Lion’s Roar, in its print form, associated Web sites and CD/DVD versions are designated public forums. Student editors have the authority to make content decisions without censorship or prior approval. The Lion’s Roar also defends the rights of student journalists relative to freedom of speech and press as stated in Amendment I of the Constitution of the United States of America. The Lion’s Roar is published through the Office of Student Publications, part of the Division for Student Affairs. It is published weekly during regular semesters and monthly during the summer semester.

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

CONTACT General Offices Old Student Union 1303 Mailing Address The Lion’s Roar SLU 10877 Hammond, LA 70402 E-mail lionsroar@selu.edu Telephone Numbers 985-549-3527 (newsroom) 985-549-3842 (fax) 985-549-3748 (advertising) 985-549-3731 (Student Publications) www.lionsroarnews.com www.selu.edu/lionsroar

PAGE 4 FEBRUARY 2, 2016

Shattered Illusions

BY WILLIAM SCHMIDT Opinions Editor

Review “In a small, happy zoo, somewhere in the Southwest, lives a ‘Mingo named Sue, who is color obsessed.” These are the opening words of the children’s book series entitled Sue the ‘Mingo written by W.J. Smith, Jr who has a degree in business administration from the university. The first book was published in 2014 and I will say that the colorful pages illustrated by Louisiana native Kev Allen are intriguing. Normally, my mind is easily distracted and most people who have studied child development, or may have kids of their own, knows that the attention span of a child is thin. But, with each page turning putting an emphasis on a different color, it is just enough chaos to keep my mind focused on the story and art but not so much chaos that it is overbearing. As for young children, the focus on one color per page turn is perfect as well as the words are simple enough that I believe this book is perfect as a child begins to grow. The first book in the series focuses on ‘Mingo wondering if a flamingo outside of pink would be more interesting. My favorite page is when ‘Mingo wonders, “Or, what about orange, what a curious sight. I’d look like a tall pumpkin on Halloween night.” And if you have a small one unable to read yet, the colors alone will entice their young eyes, with each color word shaded in their respected color. Though the first Sue the ‘Mingo had many fine qualities, you can tell it was a time on a new project of writer and illustrator working together. The pure cohesion was not there but for that one fault, they nailed that problem to rest in the second book of “Sue the ‘Mingo goes to Mardi Gras” which is once again written by Smith, Jr., illustrated by Allen and published this year. The familiar opening is at the start of the book, once again the wording of each color is shaded with respect and as I turned the pages which made me feel as if I was in New Orleans, I could tell that the writer and illustrator were as one. Once again, ‘Mingo is on an adventure and her venture brings her to the City of New Orleans to see if flamingos are pink. As she embarks on her adventure she partakes in balls wearing blue masks, parades catching beads of red, the eating of white beignets and much more. This again brings the colors that I believe will entice children to linger on each page leading to more time to pause making the transition to sleep easier. But what really brought in this second book was how author not only wrote about the colors that ‘Mingo encountered, but also the illustrations that brought in the true essence of New Orleans. I saw familiar balconies, street corners, chuckled when I saw a shrimp holding a “Go Saints” sign and for an adult, didn’t want the book to end. I am sure that ‘Mingo has many colorful stories for us to read about in the future, but for now I will leave you with the moral of ‘Mingo’s story which is to “Dream like a ‘Mingo.”

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

THE LION’S ROAR

Artist begins career while in school BY MEGAN FERRANDO Editor in Chief

While college is a place of learning, it can also be a place to begin a career. Sophomore art education major Tiffany Nesbit found that creating and selling her work does not have to begin after graduation. “Now is the time to go out there and start your work, as a young artist,” said Nesbit. “The earlier the better for me because if you’re an artist, you’re always going to be an artist. You don’t need a degree to be an artist. Some of the greatest artists don’t have a degree so why wait?” Nesbit has worked on multiple art exhibits already including “The Somethin’ Funky Show” which was based in Slidell at the Little Theatre. The exhibit showcased college artists, all of which were from Southeastern. “It was a student show made for students by students,” said Nesbit. Nesbit worked alongside fellow artist and student Alex Bond. “‘The Somethin’ Funky Show’ started out just as an undergrad showcase, but all of our submissions ended up being at Southeastern so it ended up being a Southeastern showcase,” said Nesbit. According to Nesbit, the show was a great space for artists to show off and advertise their work. Exhibits are one of many options artists have as college students to begin showcasing. Students can connect with their local community, farmer’s markets and more. “Lots of local places are awesome supporters of local artists,” said Nesbit. “I go to different farmer’s markets, different local businesses. It’s good to communicate with the local businesses and see if they’re interested in contributing. Put yourself out there and go talk. The worst they can say

The Lion’s Roar / Megan Ferrando

Sophomore art education major Tiffany Nesbit has found ways to begin her art career while still pursuing her degree. Nesbit sells her work at different farmer’s markets and displays her work at various art galleries. is no.” Besides reaching out to local businesses, Nesbit also features her work at membership galleries. “I’m associated with the HRAC and the Art House in Covington,” said Nesbit. “They both have membership galleries, and that’s awesome for college students. There is a lot of support, you just have to look for it. People aren’t going to come to you, you have to go out.” Nesbit has been showing her work for a long time and encourages all art students to begin getting their work out there. “I was blessed with a good family who supported art, so I’ve always been out there showing my work,” said Nesbit. “But

knowing a lot of friends here, it seems they really don’t have that experience. I can’t stress enough that it is so important for you to get your stuff out there as early as possible. Don’t be afraid to show it.” While Nesbit has been working to showcase her work through college, she found her art education to be very beneficial to her growth as an artist. “It’s definitely worth taking the classes,” said Nesbit. “I’ve learned so much being here. It is important. I think its good to be around other artists because you learn from each other.” Nesbit focuses largely on abstract art and channels her emotions through her pieces. Currently, Nesbit is working on a

series titled “Forms of a Landscape” which focuses on abstract forms in nature. “I consider myself an abstract artist,” said Nesbit. “I love abstract. It’s another good way of self-expression. You can see something in your mind and put it on paper rather than look at a photograph and copy it. If I feel frustrated, I usually go towards painting and paint crazy. If I just want to chill and relax, I make little doodles on paper and I usually go to ink work. So, different emotions go to different mediums.” Currently, Nesbit sells work at the Abita farmer’s market on Sundays and on her Etsy page, found at http://www.etsy.com/ shop/TiffanyAngelStudio.

First choral conducting major to lead upcoming recital BY KARSON SHARP Staff Reporter

Choral conducting major and graduate student Catherine Duensing will be directing her Choral Conducting Graduate Recital. She will be the first person at Southeastern to complete the degree. The concert is a requirement to finish the new choral conducting program. Duensing’s first degree was general studies, which focused primarily on teaching classes as well as classes one would seek in a piano performance degree. Duensing described it as a “piano education major, except without a recital.” The student conductor enjoyed expressing her favorite aspects of conducting. “I think it’s just the fact that it’s a lot more collaborative than playing solo, playing piano by yourself or playing another instrument,” said Duensing. “It’s the fact that it’s teaching and performing all in one. You get to select the music, help lead the choir through it and help teach them the music and you get to perform it with them. It’s just a big collaborative thing,

and it makes the experience even better.” She is the first student to complete a graduate degree in choral conducting, and Duensing has also found time to teach a class at Southeastern. “I’m teaching Music 101, which is an introduction to voice class, although it’s being covered by another teacher until I finish my recital,” said Duensing. “It’s open to music majors and non-music majors, so it’s open to anyone who wants to register for the course.” Duensing also shared what her plans as a director are after her recital. “We’ll see,” said Duensing. “I might be conducting one of the choirs, but I might be done after this semester because we have some other concerts coming up. But, we have another graduate student as well, so after the recital, it will be her turn to conduct for this semester. But, after I graduate, I’d like to find a job where I can continue to conduct because I love it.” Finally, Duensing shared who would be performing at the concert. “It will be Southeastern’s concert choir, which will be

our top choir at school, which will be a smaller group,” said Duensing. “We have about 35 people. We have women’s choir, or women’s choral, and that’s about 40 to 45 women. They’ll be doing four pieces in the concert, and concert choir will

be doing seven pieces. We also have instrumentalists who will be coming and playing, so we’re going to have a violin player, four percussionists, a flute and an oboe. So it will be both a choir and some instrumentalists performing.”

The concert is free for students to attend, and is considered a Southeastern event despite being held off campus. It will begin at 6:00 p.m. at First United Methodist Church in Hammond, on February 3.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

THE LION’S ROAR

FEBRUARY 2, 2016 PAGE 5

‘Common Situation’ reunites for show at Tacos and Beer BY LARSHELL GREEN Staff Reporter

Parade goers and fans gathered in downtown Hammond to escape the ‘Let the good times roll’ vibe and to enjoy a more intimate gathering. To the enjoyment of Tacos and Beer diners, a situation anything other than common occurred, the reunion show of local band “Common Situation” took place on Friday night. “Common Situation” originally included singersongwriter and guitarist Robert Persac, Will Jackson and Zack Garner. “Common Situation” has been around for about three years. Percussionist Carmen Vessel later joined the band. Vessel also plays the congas, bongos, shakers, wind chimes and tambourine. Vessel and Persac are currently the only members of the band. Together, the two of them arrange music and write together. “The name originated from the songs and how they relate to common situations that pertain to life, time and love,” said Vessel. “Common Situation” performs both covers and original songs. They often cover pop, alternative, acoustic, jazz and rock music from musicians such as “Red Hot Chili Peppers,” “OutKast” and “Pearl Jam.” “We just decided to incorporate both [covers and original songs] so that people will have more of a variety of songs that they can relate to and also, so they can hear the original songs and get a feel for those as well,” said Vessel. Vessel, who attends Southeastern, reveals that the reason for the band’s hiatus was a combination of busy schedules and her own change in education. “I had taken last spring semester off and moved back home,” said Vessel. “We just

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) St. Valentine’s Day magic rules the entire week for romantic Rams and Ewes. Music, which is the food of love, is also strong. The weekend offers news both unexpected and anticipated. TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Your aspects favor the arts -- which the Divine Bovine loves, loves, loves. Also, for those looking for romantic love, Cupid is available for requests. After all, his mother, Venus, rules your sign. GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Loving commitments continue to grow stronger. Ditto budding relationships. A recent move to help start up a new career-linked direction soon could begin to show signs of progress. CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Single Moon Children might be eager to take that proverbial chance on love. But your more serious side will feel better if you take things slowly and give your moonstruck self more time. LEO (July 23 to August 22) It’s a love fest for Leos and Leonas this week. Paired Cats might expect to be purr-fectly in sync. And with matchmaking friends, single Simbas searching for romance shouldn’t have too far to look. VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) More understanding on both sides can work miracles in restoring ailing relationships to health. Make the first move, and you’ll be closer to your muchwanted reunion.

The Lion’s Roar / Karson Sharp

Co-authors Catherine Tijerino and Eric Johnson examine photographs, local records and other historical documents as they work on their book.

Librarians create book highlighting Hammond history BY KARSON SHARP Staff Reporter

The Lion’s Roar / Larshell Green

Members of the band “Common Situation” Carmen Vessel and Robert Persac reunite after hiatus at Tacos and Beer. The band plays both original songs and covers from artists such as “Red Hot Chili Peppers,” “OutKast” and “Pearl Jam.” Vessel plays the wind chimes during the Friday night performance. She also plays percussion, congos, bongos, shakers and the tambourine. weren’t really able to meet up.” According to Persac, he spent a year at Southeastern training in classical guitar and jazz studies. Vessel began musical training at Gonzales Middle School, went on to study music at East Ascension High School and is currently pursuing a degree in music education at Southeastern. Vessel and Persac both have hobbies that extend beyond center stage. “My hobbies are making and listening to music, hiking, traveling and a current hobby that I’ve picked up on is playing the ukulele,” said Vessel. Persac’s non-performance hobbies are art related. “My hobbies are glow stringing, art and music,” said Persac. Both Robert and Persac agree their reunion show went well, and they believe that their success is a result of the support of friends and fans, as well as their own LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Accept the fact that you are worthy of being loved, and you’ll find proof in what is revealed to you over the course of the week. Also accept a compliment offered with great sincerity. SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Planning to take a new direction in life is exciting. And so is a new awareness of someone’s special affection. Expect a slow and mostly steady development of the situation. SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Although you might still feel you weren’t treated quite right in a recent matter, all that will work out in time. Meanwhile, enjoy the week’s special qualities and potentials. CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Deciding not to give up on a troubling romantic situation helps start the healing process. Expect to find some valuable insight into yourself as things move along. AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) The week is filled with positive potentials, but it’s up to you to make the right choices. The advice of someone who truly cares for you and your well-being can be priceless. PISCES (February 19 to March 20) It’s a good time to make yourself available to possibilities of the romantic kind. Already paired? Good. In that case, be sure to reassure that special person of your feelings. BORN THIS WEEK: Your generosity gladdens the hearts of others, and you bask in their joy. (c) 2016 King Features Synd., Inc.

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determination. “Our inspiration for performing is for people to hear our music and also, our love for music is definitely a big inspiration,” said Vessel. According to Vessel and Persac, they believe that the support will inspire musicians and give them inspiration towards their musical goals. “Common Situation” encourages fans to support local musicians. According to Vessel and Persac, they want fans to

know that they plan to remain together. “Common Situation” will perform at Tacos and Beer every Friday night. Vessel reflects on how both she and Persac feel following performances. “We usually feel like we’ve just touched the moon,” said Vessel. “Seriously, it feels so great to touch people’s lives through our music, it’s one of the best feelings.” For more information on “Common Situation,” visit their Facebook page.

SPONSORING

Southeastern librarians and local authors Eric Johnson and Catherine Tijerino will soon be signing their newly finished and released book, “Images of America: Hammond.” The signing is set for Thursday, February 4 at Bayou Booksellers in Hammond from 4:00-6:00 p.m. The book is published by Arcadia Publishing Co., and is a chronicle of Hammond’s history. “The Hammond Regional Arts Center was approached by Arcadia Publishing Co. looking for a writer for a book on Hammond for their ‘Images of America’ series,” said Johnson. “The books consist primarily of historical photographs with captions and a short introduction. The HRAC asked me if I knew anyone who might be interested; I asked a few people who seemed logical choices to write it, but they declined because of other projects they were working on. So I took the project on and asked my colleague Cathy Tijerino if she would like to write it with me since she had grown up here.” The historical portion of the book covers Hammond until 1950, after which the book consists of photographs donated by the Center for Southeast Louisiana Studies. Periods after 1950 will be discussed in full in later books. According to Johnson, he enjoyed writing the book and was able to better connect with the history of the town. “I loved doing a book on Hammond because I was able to learn more about the history of the city, and to finally take the time to tour all over town and actually look at the neighborhoods and houses,” said Johnson. Although Johnson enjoyed writing the book, he hopes just as strongly that Hammond residents and others will enjoy reading it. “The book was a labor of love,” said Johnson. “It took us many hours and many evenings and weekends to complete it, and we’re very proud of the finished product. It’s the first book of its kind on Hammond published since the 1980s, so many of the photographs haven’t been seen in a long time or will be new to readers. Both young and older readers will be able to recognize the buildings photographed in the book, despite the changes they have undergone over the years. “Many of the downtown buildings are still standing, although their facades have changed over the years, so students should enjoy comparing old photos with the current look of downtown Hammond,” said Johnson. “Older readers may even feel some nostalgia when they see some of the pictures. Cathy and I think that the book has a broad appeal to a wide local audience, and we’re eager to talk to our readers and hear what they think of it.” He also confirmed that more book signings are planned for the near future. “[W]e’re working on a signing at the University Bookstore as well as other venues in town. We will be part of a panel at the Hammond Regional Arts Center’s “Celebrating the Written Word” literary festival on March 12 and signing there as well,” said Johnson. “We’re also working on getting a prominent New Orleans food writer for our annual Friends of the Library Tea in March; our featured writers always bring books to sign.” More information can be found on Facebook.

SPONSORING

SPORTS

PAGE 6 FEBRUARY 2, 2016

Lions start strong, fall short in the end BY MORGAN LEDET Staff Reporter

Even with players reaching double digit points, the Lions men’s basketball team could not pull away with wins this past week. On January 26 and January 30, the Lions (3-17, 1-6 Southland) played two teams to boost their Southland Conference record but could not come out on top. In the first game against Texas A&M – Corpus Christi, the Lions kept the score tied for most of the first half. With a slow start, the defense came in strong and started to pick up early in the first quarter. With the help of the defense, freshman guard Marlain Veal completed a jump shot and a 3-pointer by JaMichael Hawkins brought the Lions up to a lead of 13-11 at the 13:41 mark. The Lions continued to fight, keeping the score tight the entire first half, but could not hold off the Islanders before the half ended. The Islanders took the lead 28-27 going into the second half of the game. “I think the team played well in the first half,” said senior guard Zay Jackson. “Some of the guys individually came out and played well in the second half. JaMichael [Hawkins], Josh [Filmore] and Marlain [Veal] had pretty good games in the first and second half.” The Islanders jumped way ahead in the second half with their biggest lead at 59-38. Thanks to some important free throws, the Lions were able to add points to their score and shrink the point gap between them and Corpus Christi. The Lions could not hold off the Islanders, however, making the final score 73-63. “They raised their intensity level and I didn’t think that we raised ours at the start of the second half,” said Head Coach Jay Ladner. “For about a four minute stretch, we kind of regrouped, battled back and had an opportunity to come back and win the game. I was proud of the comeback, but it was that stretch that was a difference in the ball game.” Veal led the team with a career-high 16 points while junior forward Jordan Capps, junior Josh Filmore, Hawkins and freshman guard Dimi Cook also had double digit points. Filmore also had a career-high of seven rebounds. With Filmore having a career high in rebounds, he shared his thoughts on the game and what he wants to improve on. “We did okay [against Corpus-Christi],” said Filmore. “We made a few mistakes execution wise, and we had few dull moments where we lost our energy and intensity. I would like to improve on being a leader because we have a couple of freshmen on the team that are new. We have to show them what to do, how to react in certain situations.” Saturday, the team travelled to Natchitoches to take on the Northwestern State University Demons. The Lions pulled ahead early in the first quarter, leading 16-3 with Capps having nine of those 16 points. Without the Lions putting points on the board, the Demons came ahead, leading with a score of 18-16. Later in the first half, the Lions took back their lead with a 9-0 run with Capps putting six of those points on the board. The Lions were leading 3230 heading into halftime. The second half came out strong with the Demons taking the lead again, but the Lions could not recover making the final score 91-76.

see BASKETBALL pg. 9

THE LION’S ROAR

Lady Lions serve up a double win BY JONATHAN RHODES Staff Reporter

The Lady Lions tennis team won their first two matches of the spring last Friday against their opponent the Alcorn State Lady Braves. The Lady Lions dominated the Braves, sweeping them in both matches. The score of the first match was 7-0, and the second match ended 4-0 after both teams agreed to end the match, as it was put out of reach for the Lady Braves. “I think we performed really well,” said senior Renee Villarreal. “Everyone was being really aggressive. We all started out really nervous at first because it was our first match of the season. But, as we progressed, we started playing better and getting more confidence. Overall we did pretty good.” The Lady Lions got off to a hot start. The match began with doubles matches where junior Margaux Kaltenbacher and sophomore Dany Raygadas defeated Lady Braves Aakansksha Punj and Marlene Maier 6-1 on No. 3 court. While on court No. 2 sophomores Lucia Bustamante and Ceci Mercier faced off against Aida Kelic and Siobhan RyanBovey defeating them 6-2. Sophomore Dalina Dahlmans and Villarreal finished the sweep in the doubles competition on court No. 1 by defeating Ivana Boberic and Ekaterina Potapova 6-4. In the singles competition for the match, the Lady Lions continued their dominant play. Villarreal won her singles match on court No. 1 (6-4, 3-0) as Braves Kelic retired. Mercier defeated Potapova (6-1, 6-1) on court No. 4. Bustamante seized her victory over Maier (6-0, 7-5) on court No. 5 while, Dahlmans poured it on Ryan-Bovey (6-4, 6-4) on court No. 2. Katlenbacher pulled out a close (6-3, 6-2) win against Kladiva Bukovec non court No. 6. Raygadas

was the last one to finish with a hard fought victory over Boberic (3-6, 6-3, 10-4). The Lady Lions won every match completing a shutout 7-0 taking Match 1. Before doubles play for Match 2, Alcorn State switched their top two double teams from Match 1. But, it did not help them as Dahlmans and Villarreal finished their match first with a 6-2 win over Kelic and Ryan-Bovey on court No. 1. Raygadas and Katlenbacher won their match over Punj and Bukovec 6-4 on court No. 3. Bustamante and Mercier match against Potapova and Boberic was a bit more competitive, but they persevered to win (76, 7-4) to sweep the doubles competition for Match 2. Singles play for Match 2 ended very quickly. Bustamante easily defeated Bukovec (6-0, 6-0) on court No. 5. Raygadas won against Potapova in similar fashion (6-0, 6-0) on court No. 3. And only seconds later Mercier defeated Punj (6-1, 6-3) on court No. 4 to end the match. Raygadas, Mercier and Bustamante were 2-0 in both singles and doubles play leading the team. Bustamante and Raygadas are proud of the team’s performance. “I feel we have started the season really strong,” said Raygadas. “I think we have a really intense team for this season.” “It was really good day,” said Bustamante. “We did what we have been practicing, and I think we supported each [other] really well” The Lady Lions next match will be against University of Louisiana- Lafayette on Saturday, February 6 at the Southeastern Tennis Complex. “I am really looking forward to continuing to have this confidence I’m having for next Saturday against Lafayette,” said Villarreal. To see the full schedule for tennis and for more stats, visit lionsports.net.

New coach, new season JONATHAN RHODES Staff Reporter

The Lions softball team is returning this season with new Head Coach Rick Fremin hoping to have another successful season. Fremin has been working with the team over the fall and is proud of their preparation this off-season. “I feel the team has been preparing extremely hard,” said Fremin. “We had a good fall, and we focused on two things throughout the fall: our installation of our system, and our evaluation of the players and the team that we were taking over. So, their prep even after the Christmas holidays has been even more focused, and the practices have been very crisp. I do feel that this preparation is going to carry us a long way throughout the season especially in the months of April and May.” Fremin is a Louisiana native from Belle Chasse. Before coming to Southeastern, Fremin coached Jackson State University and led the team to their first three Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) East Division championships in his five years as coach. Fremin is glad to be coaching school close to home. “This is a dream job for me,” said Fremin. “I hope it is my last job. I’m from south Louisiana, and this is the closest division one school with a softball program to where I was born and raised. So, this is home, and I hope to raise my family here and built a top 25 softball program that the state can be really proud of.” The Lady Lions have 13 players returning from last season. Senior outfielder/middle infielder Katie Lacour led the Southland Conference last year with a batting average of .484 and was ranked fifth in the NCAA is expected to have another stellar season. Along with Lacour, other players like sophomore outfielder Kinsey Nichols had a .340 batting average, 4 homeruns and 27 RBI last season. Senior first baseman, Amber Sather, had a batting average of .286, 7 homeruns and 31 RBI. This team batted .299 for the season last year and finished the season with a 22-30 overall record, in fourth place in the Southland Conference standings. Six Lady Lions players made the All-Southland teams and five of those players are returning to play this season. While there are many veterans on the team this season, there are as many as nine newcomers to the team. Fremin wants to

see COACH pg. 10

The Lion’s Roar / Jonathan Rhodes

Sophomores Dalina Dahlmans and Ceci Mercier led the Lady Lions to an impressive victory, sweeping Alcorn State 7-0 in their first game of the spring.

SPORTS

THE LION’S ROAR

FEBRUARY 2, 2016 PAGE 7

The trip thus far for the Lady Lions BY ELIZABETH BROWN Staff Reporter

Courtesy of Kemmler Chapple

Coaches (left) Travis Mikel and Patrick Toney (right) are returning to the Lions after a year’s absence while Matt Barrett (middle) is coming to coach after successful runs with Georgia Southern University and Southland Conference rival Sam Houston State.

New faces in Lions football BY JONATHAN RHODES Staff Reporter

Head football Coach Ron Roberts announced changes and additions to the coaching staff last Tuesday. These changes to coaching staff are believed by Roberts to help return the Lions to championship form next season after a disappointing 4-7 record last season. “I think every one of them is going to bring something that is best for the program and help us to get back to where we belong, and that is winning conference championships,” said Roberts. The new additions to the coaching staff are offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach Matt Barrett, offensive line coach Travis Mikel and secondary coach Patrick Toney. Barrett brings a lot of experience to the Lions staff. BUDGET continued from pg. 1 Another thought the university is taking into consideration is how plans made for budget reductions took place several years ago, and now savings in certain areas are no longer possible. “Furthermore, the magnitude of a five-milliondollar cut after experiencing years of budget reductions that began in December of 2008, also greatly complicates the challenge,” said Domiano. “Many of the efficiency measures, program reductions, position eliminations and reductions in expenses that were possible have already occurred, so opportunities for savings in those areas no

He was on the coaching staff of Georgia Southern in 2015 and helped them to their first ever bowl game appearance and victory at the GoDaddy. com Bowl. Barrett also coached at conference rival Sam Houston State where he helped them to back-to-back FCS playoff appearances and to the 2012 national championship game. Before going to Sam Houston State, he coached nine seasons as an offensive coordinator for Missouri Southern State and Catawba College. “It is a tremendous thrill, this program is so attractive for so many reasons,” said Barrett. “Coach Roberts has won everywhere he has been, and I have seen first-hand the talent that Coach Roberts and his staff have recruited here. From my time at Sam Houston State, we played for the national championship and then the following season got beat by Southeastern two

times in the same season. I saw the athletes, and they were very impressive and since I have been here, I have been impressed by the work ethic of the players.” Mikel had been the offensive line coach for the Lions in the 2012, 2013 and 2014 seasons. Mikel spent the 2015 season on the Hammond High School coaching staff. Mikel not only coached with Roberts at Delta State University previously but also an All-American center at DSU under Roberts in his first season as coach. Toney was also previously with the Lions coaching staff. Before, he spent the 2015 season with conference rival Sam Houston State where he helped them to make a Football Championship Subdivision playoff appearance. Toney is a 2013 Southeastern graduate and spent three seasons under Roberts working with the

Lion secondary coach. He was also special teams coordinator in the 2014 season. The changes to the coaching staff have been made to the offensive and defensive side. Chet Pobolish will now be the wide receivers coach, assistant head coach and special teams coordinator. Tyler Hennes will switch from tight ends coach to running backs coach which he was in the 2014 season. Jake Zbydniewski will switch from defensive assistant to tight ends coach. On the defensive side, Kevin Weston is switching from running backs coach to cornerback coach. “Last year, I lost five coaches so I had to maneuver coaches around just to get through the year,” said Roberts. “So, I simply moved some coaches back. Coach Weston was a defensive coordinator for eight years.

It was always his position on the defensive side of the ball. I brought him in last year. I did not have an opening on defense, but I did on offense. As opposed as I was of getting someone I did not want, I took him, and as soon as I got an open defensive spot, I gave it to him.” Roberts will be taking over duties as defensive coordinator this season. “Last year was a little different for us because it was the first time I had somebody else come in and be defensive coordinator,” said Roberts. “Right now, we are trying to get back to the things we did before 2015. We are going to look a lot like the way we did in 12, 13 and 14.” The Lions will start spring practice on March 8, and the annual spring game will be on April 16. For more information on the Lions for 2016, visit lionsports.net.

longer exists.” The university has been taking steps over the last few years to help with budget cuts that impact the campus. “Given the magnitude of the cuts to higher education, including Southeastern, the university has taken numerous measures over the course of the last several years to accommodate the reductions in state support,” said Domiano. “Such action included: The elimination of 22 low-enrollment/low productivity academic degree programs, a reduction of more than 400 faculty and staff positions from the operating fund, reorganizing and streamlining operations for greater efficiency, utilizing restricted and one-time

funding where possible to support general operations and reduction in operational expenses such as travel, supplies, acquisitions and repairs. It is important to note that while these reductions were being made, the University also experienced increases in mandated costs of more than $ 7 million annually. These costs include such things as employee retirement, insurance costs and Legislative Auditor costs, further complicating our ability to respond to cuts in state support.” The faculty and staff are not the only ones who have felt the burden of budget cuts to the university. Students have also had to deal with the budget issue in their own way. “During this same time period, our students have experienced an increase in their tuition costs of more than 116 percent,” said Domiano. “This places a

greater financial burden on our students requiring many of them to work additional hours, enroll in fewer courses and in some cases, potentially sit out or delay their enrollment as they attempt to secure the necessary funds to enroll. This also impacts the university’s ability to retain the student and the student’s ability to progress and graduate. All of these items negatively affect retention and graduation rates that ultimately also impact funding in the form of state appropriations and revenue generated from student tuition and fees. Most importantly, however, the student is impacted in their ability to complete their degree and successfully enter the workforce.” With the possibility of midyear budget cuts taking place, it is important for the students to keep up with information on the issue. “Students should stay

informed of the decisions that may impact them and the university,” said Domiano. “The Southeastern Alumni Association sponsors a ROAR Network (Reach Out Advocate and Rally) that is free and open to anyone to register. As the legislative sessions get underway, communications are sent via the ROAR Network on a regular basis in order to keep individuals informed of the goings-on in Baton Rouge that can and will impact Southeastern.” Along with the ROAR Network, those who may want to learn more about the University of Louisiana System, or past topics of discussions dealing with other issues involving higher education, they can visit ulsystem.edu. Legislators are scheduled to start discussion of the budget issues to higher education on February 14.

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The Lady Lions basketball team went head to head with two local opponents, McNeese State University and Northwestern State University, but fell short by finishing with two conference losses. On Wednesday, January 27, the Lady Lions (3-15, 2-5 Southland) traveled to Lake Charles to take on the Cowgirls. The game began in favor of the Lady Lions with a three-pointer made by senior guard Erica Hernandez, but soon after, McNeese took a two-point lead of 3-5 in the eighth minute. Although McNeese continued to lead until the last few minutes of the first, the Lady Lions did not let this set them back. In the fourth minute, a successful layup was made by freshman forward Kyle Felton, putting the team back into the game at 11-11. From there, the Lady Lions took the lead into the second, finishing the first at 22-19. In the second, the team continued to lead with multiple successful plays made by Hernandez, senior forward Nanna Pool and sophomore guard Taylin Underwood. The team finished the second at 41-37. In the third, the team stayed in the lead until the fifth minute where Cowgirl junior guard Amber Donnes made a three-pointer, putting McNeese in the lead at 50-52. The Lady Lions staggered behind the Cowgirls by a ten-point gap at the end of third. In the fourth, the point gap widened between the two teams, and the Lady Lions were never able to regain the lead by the end, finishing at 79-96. Looking back at this game, Underwood felt that although the team did well in the first two quarters, they fell short after the half. “We did our best,” said Underwood. “We played two quarters together, but [after] we just got outplayed.” Underwood also reflected on how the team could improve from this point. “We just have to finish the game and play all four quarters together,” said Underwood. “I definitely want to see us reach our goal, which is obviously to make it to the tournament. We just have to turn it around now while we still can.” On Saturday, January 30, the team (3-16, 2-6 Southland) continued its four-game road trip by heading to Natchitoches to face the Lady Demons. NSU took the lead in the first until the sixth minute when Underwood made a good three-pointer, tying up the score 6-6. From there, the team took a twopoint lead with a good jumper made by Hernandez in the fourth minute, but was unable to keep ahead of the Lady Demons, finishing the first 1322. The Lady Lions were not able to regain the lead for the remainder of the game, finishing at the final score of 62-82. Reflecting on the performance, Pool felt that the team lacked but still kept at it until the end. “We could’ve done better, but as we kept playing, we kept it going,” said Pool. Despite their loss, Pool felt that the best part of it all was the love for the game. “The greatest moments are when we are playing as a team and we’re laughing while we’re having fun,” said Pool. From here, Head Coach Yolanda Moore would like to see the team improve defensively and offensively and finish to the end. “We have to improve defensively and be able to stop people and be able to execute on offense, get rebounds and put together a whole game on both sides of the ball,” said Moore. The team will conclude its fourgame road trip at University of Central Arkansas on Wednesday, February 3 at 7:00 p.m. For more information about the Lady Lions, visit lionsports.net.

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PAGE 8 FEBRUARY 2, 2016

THE LION’S ROAR

Fiscal issues plague the nation, SLU students help BY LARHSELL GREEN Staff Reporter

Students and faculty on campus have recently become involved in a nationwide campaign called It’s Up to Us, to bring awareness and provide solutions for fiscal issues and national debt. It’s Up to Us is currently the only Louisiana university organization participating in the competition. The campus organization, which consists of faculty and students has coined the name, It’s Up to Us Southeastern. According to itsuptous.org, students build crucial skills in leadership, strategy development and community engagement. Junior computer science major and SGA senator Subash Mishra was the first student to act as a representative for the campaign at the University, and is now the team leader of the organization. According to Mishra, the main goal of the organization is to make students aware of fiscal issues and start conversations about it. “[They] do what they can to come up with solutions [for issues] such as the long-term national debt the U.S. government has,” said Mishra. “It’s the first time being done at Southeastern, we might not be that impactful, but we are trying to be.” It’s Up to Us Southeastern is supported by SGA, the History and Political Science Society (HIPS) and various other clubs on campus. According to itsuptous.org, the

winning team will receive $10,000 and the runner-up will receive $2,500. Core members of the winning team will have the opportunity to attend an all-expenses paid trip to the 2016 Clinton Global Initiative University meeting. Members of the winning team will also be eligible to apply for a paid internship at Net Impact, which includes a stipend for lodging during the summer of 2016. Team leaders will be invited to attend an all-expenses paid trip to the Net Impact Conference. According to itsuptous.org, the Net Impact Conference is a forum for students and professionals to use their careers to tackle the world’s toughest social and environmental problems. According to Mishra, all of the participating schools were given specific grants by the Net Impact. The organization had to submit their campaign proposal with a budget. In a final report, a budget containing the receipts and uses of the grant was also done. Campaigns will be judged based on the organizers of the competition and a panel. Judges will also focus on the success of campaign activities and the creativity behind creating them. Teams are required to participate in events like, My Two Cents Day and create additional unique events. On October 22 2015, It’s Up To Us Southeastern held My Two Cents Day. According to Mishra, the organization had a very good response from the students. “Two Cents Day was the breakout event to say we exist on campus,”

said Mishra. “We had gift cards as an incentive.” It’s Up To Us Southeastern will be holding a blogging competition starting on February 1, and prizes will be given towards the end of the month. Articles will be submitted to the organization’s blog, and based on the number of likes and shares, the first place winner will receive $200. Each runner up will receive $100. Submissions can include video, text, animation, sketch and graphic novels. According to Mishra, plans for the event are still in progress. A car smash will possibly be used as an attraction to get students informed about national debt and sign the pledge. “Signing a pledge on our events will pressure the local representative to take action on this issue,” said Mishra. “Our pledge signing platform will send an email to our representative that we care about this issue.” Through these events, the organization is trying to create a discussion to show what will happen if these issues are not corrected. It’s Up To Us Southeastern also plans to hand out informational pamphlets. According to Mishra, it is possible that a representative from Congress will attend, or a documentary movie night will occur. Free food may also be available. It’s Up to Us Southeastern had seven core members in the fall and now has three members. Director of Student Engagement Dr. Pamela Rault serves as the organization’s

advisor. “At first, I looked for people in business departments, but then I sent a mass email to a lot of students about interest meetings who were interested in this program,” said Mishra. Leaders of the core team have specific duties that have been divided among them. Freshman outreach leader Richard Davis Jr. serves as the outreach leader. He works with the student media on campus such as the Southeastern Channel, KSLU and “The Lion’s Roar” to promote the organization. Wildcard leader Karah Morris is in charge of planning events that are unique and new. Logistics leader Pankaj Sherchan is responsible for having resources such as registration, food and venues for events. Engagement leader Bradley Watson connects students and other departments at Southeastern with the campaign. Davis attended SGA meetings and met Mishra and Watson, vice president of SGA, and It’s Up to Us Southeastern member. He was invited to an interest meeting and quickly became aware of the immensity of our national debt. “The United States national debt is currently over $18 trillion dollars and rising at a rate of about $2.4 billion dollars a day,” said Davis. “Lawmakers have made little to no progress over the past few years to address this issue. I feel that the first step to make a change is to encourage my generation to put pressure on the national government to

do something about this massive amount looming over our generation and future generations.” According to Davis, fiscal responsibility and national debt are important to his future after life as a college student. “…It’s important to budget and save in order to have a prosperous future,” said Davis. “With that being said, I would expect that my country’s leaders would have the same mindset when it comes to the national budget.” Davis urges students who do not see fiscal issues and debt as an important issue to consider their possible future. “If the national debt continues to rise unhindered we can see budget shortfalls when it comes to social security, national defense, as well as future tax increases and an overall unstable economy,” said Davis. “In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, ‘Be the change that you wish to see in the world.’ It’s up to us.” Students can send an email to subash. mishra@selu.edu if they are interested in It’s Up To Us Southeastern. Students who wish to sign up for events can send emails to uptous.selu@gmail.com. Applicants for the blogging competition can send their submission to uptous.selu@gmail. com. According to Mishra, it would be posted on the blog uptoselu.blogspot.com. A conformation email will be sent, and then posts will be shared for likes and comments. For more information about the national campaign, It’s Up To Us, visit itsuptous.org.

Students travel to DC to March for Life, protesting abortion BY WILLIAM SCHMIDT Opinions Editor

Twenty-seven college students from the state of Louisiana, including three from the university, went to Washington D.C. for the March for Life. Due to being snowed in, the trip ended up due to being snowed in by Winter Storm Jonas. Though the March for Life Conference was cancelled, the students were still able to enjoy other activities that were planned for Thursday, January 21, the morning after arrival. “We got to D.C. late Wednesday night,” said senior communication major Alexis Flores. “We were up early on Thursday morning to attend Geaux Forth, which is a conference hosted by Louisiana Right to Life for Louisiana High school students attending the March for Life. It was cool to see so many young people from our state all gathered together in D.C., Friday was the actual March. There was a rally before it began with several speakers.” The March for Life happens every year around the anniversary of the Roe v. Wade case in which the decision to have abortion legalized was made. People from around the nation, as well as the world, were marching together with a common goal in mind, to end abortion. The march took place on January 22. “On Friday, we marched with people from all over the world for about a mile from the National Mall by the Washington Monument to the Capitol in silent, prayerful protest,” said freshman double degree in biological sciences and political science Grace Taffaro. “There were over 500,000 people there, ranging from high school students to politicians from most of the 50 states and even France and the Netherlands.” The March for Life included people of all ages. “There were high school students there from all over the country,” said Flores. “Also, many pro-life organizations were represented at the March. Save the Storks, a group that runs mobile crisis pregnancy centers, had a really big presence this year. Silent No More, a group that helps post abortive women share their stories and find healing, always shows up to events like this. More like And Then There Were None, Online for Life and Priests for Life all marched as well.” Though the March for Life has a large participation of marchers, some feel as if the media does not portray the extent of how involved people are in the day. “It’s crazy that more people don’t know about it because there

are usually 100 to 200 thousand participants,” said Flores. “Mainstream media just doesn’t give it the coverage it deserves. There are also marches in every, or almost every state around the same time.” The main goal for some of the marchers is to see abortion come to an end through political leaders. “I originally traveled to D.C. for the prayerful protest to protect the innocents lives lost to abortion everyday in the U.S.,” said Flores. “We hope to be a witness to others, especially world leaders and people in politically powerful positions, to protect human life from conception to natural death.” The day after the march, the Students for Life of America Conference was planned but cancelled. Though the students in attendance were looking forward to the event, they were able to enjoy time in the snow. “We were all supposed to attend the Students for Life of America conference,” said Flores. “I was really looking forward to that, but it was cancelled because of the weather. The snow really came down Friday night and all day Saturday. From Friday until we left Tuesday, we were completely free. We really had a blast hiking all over a frozen D.C.” An issue arose when the students realized that they were going to have to stay for an extended stay and needed to make plans on how to fund the unexpected cost of extra days in a hotel and for food. The Louisiana Students for Life President Cisco Gonzales who attends Louisiana State University took action and set up a gofundme account for the extra expenses and shared it across social media. According to the gofundme account that was set up by Gonzales, “We hosted a fundraiser to help alleviate the costs of the trip. College is expensive, so we hosted a fundraiser with a chance to win an iPad, a $100.00 Ruth Chris Gift Card and a T.V. With this fundraiser, some students

were able to pay for their trip costs of $500.00 and $100.00 in spending money. This was designed for Wednesday through Saturday. If you have not seen the latest news, while we were in Our Nation’s Capital, Winter Storm Jonas has snowed us in. We are not able to fly out until Tuesday, and we did not anticipate extending our stay until Tuesday. As I stated before, we are college students, and Washington, D.C. is expensive. Please consider donating; anything helps. The $3,000.00 will cover the two extra nights in a hotel for 28 people.” The goal of 3,000 dollars was met with a bit more than expected. “Twenty seven college students can reach out to a lot of people,” said Flores. “We actually ended up with enough donations to cover the extra hotel costs and donate the leftover to the Woman’s New Life Center.” Some students have seen snow before, but it was still a unique experience providing a chance for the Louisiana college students to grow closer, make new memories and learn to deal with stressful situations that may arise in life. “Though I’d seen snow before, I hadn’t seen it in this high volume,” said Taffaro. “Be accepting of challenges that arise and be ready for anything life throws at you. I think stress was a little high for the students who were having to miss extra classes because we couldn’t fly out when we were supposed to, but after we accepted the news, we kind of all got closer and had the time to get to know each other.” Others learned that lessons could continually be learned, no matter the stage of life one may be at. “I did learn a lot,” said Flores. “Even in your senior year, there are bigger things in life than school. When you face your fears and do what you believe is right, regardless of the opinions of others, you will feel relief. Sometimes what seems like an unfortunate situation can provide four of the best days of your life.”

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One unexpected memory did occur for those who made the trip that will be a fond memory for the future. “The metro was free on Monday because it had closed for a few days and it was only partially operational,” said Flores. “That was a nice surprise. We also found out that there is a Snowball Fight Association in D.C. They organized a Star Wars themed snowball fight. If we had had a conference, we wouldn’t have

been able to attend that.” For those who may not know in what area they should focus making a difference in or who may want to start helping the cause of ending abortion, Flores encourages students to start with some basic research. “If anyone wants to make a difference in this area, they should start by reading about it,” said Flores. “Read and talk about it with anyone you can. That is how I became involved, and educating

yourself is a critical first step.” With new friendships, fond memories, unexpected cancelation of events due to a winter snowstorm and a cause to stand up for what one believes in, this will not be the last time for some of the students from the university to travel to Washington, D.C. for the March for Life. “I plan to attend every year until abortion is no longer legal and the innocent lives are protected,” said Taffaro.

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THE LION’S ROAR

FEBRUARY 2, 2016 PAGE 9

ROTC courses return to campus since 1995 BY ALEX BRAINARD Staff Reporter

The Lion’s Roar / Megan McCormick

As the spring 2016 semester started, the university’s U.S. Army Reserve Officer Training program has officially returned. While the program started originally in 1969 at the time of the Vietnam War, it was eventually shut down in 1995 due to budget cuts. Now that the program has returned, students can sign up for ROTC courses and pursue their military career. “We are pleased to re-introduce our students to ROTC military science classes on the Southeastern campus,” said President John L. Crain in a Southeastern press release. “Increasingly, students are looking for options that include military service, either for several years or as [a] career. Southeastern’s previous experience with ROTC was successful in helping to prepare future military leaders.” Students were able to take part in ROTC before. However, students had to take their military courses through Southern University’s Navy program or LSU’s Army and Air Force

program. “We have a lot of National Guard kids here that are enlisted,” said ROTC Alumni Chapter President Steve Worth of Hammond. “Going through the ROTC program offers you the opportunity to become an officer in the regular Army or if you decide you want to stay in the Guard you can, but you are a commissioned officer.” The ROTC program on campus does provide more benefits than just becoming an officer. “We have a scholarship that we have endowed as alumni of $143,000,” said Worth. “We gave out nine scholarships last semester and we’re going to give out nine this semester.” According to Worth as the program will continue to grow, there will be Army scholarships available to juniors and seniors that will pay for their tuition, their books and everything else they would need. Worth feels that the ROTC program causes kids to grow up and take responsibility, as well as help students interact with the different diversity of people in the world.

“I was a test black hawk test pilot in the Army,” said Worth. “I went through this program back in 1978 and I’ve enjoyed my time on active duty. It’s just great opportunities for kids that really don’t know what they really want to do, but this will give you a big variety of choices.” The ROTC courses are just like regular semester courses starting at the freshman 100 level classes while including labs. The labs contain marching and other military skills students will need to go forward. Currently the program has a total of 15 people enrolled in the courses. “As of this morning we’ve got eight freshmen, six sophomores and one junior,” said Worth. “A total of 15, which is fantastic being the first semester back on campus. Now next semester I anticipate we’ll have probably 30 students. Between Southern and Southeastern I think there are 95 cadets which is fantastic for both Southern and Southeastern.” For more information on the ROTC program, contact admissions@southeastern.edu.

Science on Tap lecture to highlight the immune system BY KELLI MEYNARD Staff Reporter

The university welcomes another speaker to educate students at the Science on Tap lecture. On Tuesday February 2 at 7:00 p.m. Southeastern Louisiana Biologist Penny Shockett will be discussing the human immune system. Her presentation is called “Why Immunity and Pathogens Are Our Frienemies” and is intended to show students how the immune system does more than just fight infections and prevent diseases. The immune system can cause negative effects when fighting diseases, which can cause our body’s health to be at risk. BASKETBALL continued from pg. 6 Capps had a career-high of 19 points, while Veal had a career-high of nine assists and career-high of 18 points. Also scoring double digit points was guard Cook and Jackson with

“The talk is about how our immune system helps us, but also can hurt us, and how microorganisms can hurt us, but also help us,” said Shockett. “The immune response involves a complex system of cells and molecules that protect us against foreign substances, and when it’s working, it keeps us healthy. But, our health can also be negatively affected by immune responses in certain disease states. Microbes that interact with the immune system can also influence our immunity. The talk will explore these interactions.” Shockett explains that the immune system interacts with more than one biological system and can cause

junior Dominic Nelson having a team-high of six rebounds. Scoring double digit points, Jackson shared how he thought the team has improved and how he wants to improve personally. “We are starting to play

many different diseases. According to scientific research, microbes are incorporated in many positive roles within the body and will majorily influence development of the immune system. The lecture will describe the mechanisms the immune system creates to clear pathogens. “People may hear a variety of ways in which to boost their immune system, but for some it does not always work. Going to the gym, eating right or taking things like Airborne and Emergen-C is not always enough to keep a stable, healthy immune system. She hopes the presentation will help students better understand

better together,” said Jackson. “We just have to learn how to win and finish out the game. What I really think I need to do is, I have to be a better leader for my teammates.” With the regular season finishing up in early March,

the immune system, disease and how microbes respond and influence immunity. “We hear all the time about different things that we can do to boost our immunity and health, whether by diet, exercise, probiotics, et cetera,” said Shockett. “For some, the immune response is a black box. Hopefully, the talk will help students, or anyone, understand better some of the basic immune mechanisms involved in health and disease, and how microbes respond to and influence immunity.” According to Professor Brian Crother, students will find this lecture relatable and it will be a

chance to see their professors outside the classroom. “They are curious about themselves and want to learn,” said Crother. “It’s impossible for the subject to not be relatable to any human. It also gives them a chance to see professors in an informal setting talking about subjects they love.” The Science on Tap lecture will be held at Tope La Catering, 113 East Thomas Street in Hammond. The lecture is free and all ages are welcome to attend. For more information on future Science on Tap events, contact the Department of Biological Sciences at 985-5493740.

Ladner shared his goals for the end of the season. “My goals are simply the same as our team’s goals,” said Ladner. “And I would like us, one, I think it would be great for us to be able to qualify for our conference tournament in

the Southland Conference in the top 8 teams out of the 13 teams. That’s our first goal and our second goal, obviously is to advance in the conference tournament. And our ultimate goal is to win the conference tournament and advance to the

NCAA Tournament, which our school has only done one time in our history.” You can catch the Lions in action at their next home game on February 6 at the University Center at 4:00 p.m. or listen live at KSLU 90.9 FM.

YOUNG continued from pg. 1

would take up the title of Miss Southeastern if the current Miss Southeastern ever had to step down. However, runner up junior communication major Nancy Peck currently holds the title of Miss Slidell 2016. Rules and regulations of the Miss Louisiana/ Miss America organization will not allow titleholders to title hop. As Young steps down, she wishes to thank all those who stood by her when she was Miss Southeastern and wishes luck for those whom she was able to meet during her time as a beauty pageant

queen. “Thank you to my pageant directors Veda Abene and Cecelia Palumbo,” said Young. “I also want to take the time to wish the future newly crowned Miss Southeastern the best and I hope for success to my newfound friends Miss Southeastern 2015 and Miss Crescent City 2016 Emily Randon and Miss Slidell 2016 Nancy Peck.” A crowning ceremony for the new Miss Southeastern will be taking place Wednesday, February 3 at 12:30 in the Student Union Theatre.

community and he informed me that most clinics and hospitals would be willing to place me in a program to be a volunteer. This was all it took as I took this information that was provided to me from the speaker at our DOA event and went to North Oaks to enroll into their volunteer program. Since that meeting I have accumulated over one hundred volunteer hours along with priceless information from the many helpful and friendly doctors.” Joining this organization is about helping future medical students

to feel confident and informed. Students also can make connections and friends while being a part of something they are interested in. “At the end of the day, we just hope that providing these speakers and events allows our members to make a confident and informed decision when planning for their future and career, and hopefully build some connections along the way,” said Hoerner. For any student interested in joining, it is not too late, contact an officer at doaselu@gmail.com.

glory was given to God and my friends and family are still there with their support.” Though Young’s reign was short, she served the university with pride. “I am thankful for the time I was able to serve for the university, CAB office and more importantly, myself,” said Young. “I share my decision without any shame or hurt, but rather with pride in myself and the resilience of a true Lion.” Normally, the first runner up DOA continued from pg. 2 members to make a confident and informed decision when planning for their future and career, and hopefully build some connections along the way,” said Hoerner. For any student interested in joining DOA, it is not too late. Contact an officer at doaselu@ gmail.com. “I spoke with the presenter after the presentation and asked him where I should go to become involved in the volunteer

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THE LION’S ROAR

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OBAMA WANTS $4B TO HELP STUDENTS LEARN COMPUTER SCIENCE

The Lion’s Roar /Larshell Green

Coach Rick Fremin, alumni and current Lady Lions softball players (above) walked down memory lane during an Alumni game on Saturday, October 17, 2015 at North Oak Park. Players old and new, (below left) enjoy the friendly game. Sophomore Carlie Whittington (below) has her eye on the prize during a challenging game against East Central Community College on Friday October 16.

COACH continued from pg. 6 develop the new talent for the future of the program. “We just kind of told them every position is open,” said Fremin. “They have to prove to the staff and to their teammates that they have earned the right to be in the starting lineup or receive opportunity. We want them all to play, however the reality of that is slim. They all got a shot in the fall and the ones that make the most of their opportunity will just get more opportunities.” The Lady Lions advanced to the conference tournament last season due to finishing fourth in the conference. However, the Lady Lions lost their elimination match against the top-seed Northwestern State. Fremin believes that this is what the team needs to do to advance further in the tournament. “I think just to be able to compete for seven-plus innings,”

said Fremin. “To make our minds up that we are here to dominant our opponent, and we are here to respect the game and play it at the highest level. To work on our skill set and to enhance our skill set that way when that moment does arrive in that particular game we will have been battle tested and prepared for the moment.” The Lady Lions first games of the season will be during the Lion Classic on February 12 through 14 at North Oak Park, were seven teams will be competing against each other in a three-day event. “I feel we are ahead of schedule right now,” said Fremin. “I have been doing this for about fifteen years, and the majority of teams at this time three weeks out is not fully prepared. But I think we are a couple a days ahead of schedule.” For more information on the Lady Lions softball team, visit lionsports.net.

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama said Saturday he will ask Congress for billions of dollars to help students learn computer science skills and prepare for jobs in a changing economy. “In the new economy, computer science isn’t an optional skill. It’s a basic skill, right along with the three R’s,” Obama said in his weekly radio and Internet address. Obama said only about onequarter of K-12 schools offer computer science instruction, but that most parents want their children to develop analytical and coding skills. “Today’s auto mechanics aren’t

just sliding under cars to change the oil. They’re working on machines that run on as many as 100 million lines of code,” Obama said. “That’s 100 times more than the Space Shuttle. Nurses are analyzing data and managing electronic health records. Machinists are writing computer programs.” The federal budget proposal for 2017 that Obama plans to send Congress on February 9 will seek $4 billion for grants to states and $100 million for competitive grants for school districts over the next three years to teach computer science in elementary, middle and high schools, administration officials said.

LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Under fire for his administration’s role in Flint’s lead-tainted water emergency, Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder did something that would be legally required in most other states by releasing his government emails related to the crisis. He did not release them all, however. The 274 pages cover 2014 and 2015, including an 18-month period during which the city switched its water source to the Flint River while under state financial management until it reconnected to Detroit’s system because of lead contamination

blamed on state regulatory failures. Snyder withheld the emails of everyone else in the 70-person executive office along with his own emails from his first three years in office. Also left out were an unknown number of messages the public sent to the governor’s office about Flint water through the state website and his staff’s responses. Michigan is one of two states to wholly exempt the governor’s office from public-records requests. The emergency in Flint has reinvigorated efforts to subject the governor to the state’s Freedom of Information Act.

WATER CRISIS SPURS CALLS TO CHANGE MICHIGAN OPEN-RECORDS LAW

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DOZENS KILLED BY BOMBS IN SYRIA, CLOUDING UN PEACE SESSION GENEVA (AP)— A triple bombing killed at least 50 people in a predominantly Shiite suburb south of the Syrian capital of Damascus on Sunday even as a U.N. mediator held his first meeting with members of the main opposition group that seeks progress on humanitarian issues before it will join formal talks on

ending the five-year civil war. The attacks were claimed by militants from the Islamic State group, and Syria’s delegate to the U.N.-sponsored peace talks said the violence confirmed the connection between “terrorism” and “some political groups” — a reference to those who oppose President Bashar Assad.

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