The Lion's Roar 02/06/2018

’ 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

Hammond, LA

Doping scandal rocks Olympics

Discovering a new path after 31 years

see PAGE 2

Alumni tests current squad

Joyce takes the reigns at HRAC

see PAGE 3

February 6, 2018

see PAGE 5

see PAGE 6

coach, new Safety leading up to Mardi Gras New direction NIKISUN SHRESTHA Staff Reporter

At the “Krewe of Omega Mardi Gras Parade,” participants throw beads and cups from their float to attendees as they pass through Hammond. Mardi Gras and animal-themed floats filled the parade. Zachary Araki/The Lion’s Roar

ZACHARY ARAKI

Change and Student Outreach and Advocacy Representatives offered a safe environment for Tangipahoa – Reshaping community members as they Attitudes for Community waited for the Mardi Gras parade Staff Reporter

Governor on funding for higher education

to roll through Hammond.

“In the Zone” offered a safe, alcohol and tobacco-free environment leading up to the “Krewe of Omega Mardi Gras

Parade,” which started on North holds “In the Zone.”

General Pershing Street at “It’s important that all of our 6:30 p.m. TRACC Community community members are able to Outreach Coordinator Katy Cochran explained why TRACC see MARDI GRAS, pg. 4

ANNIE GOODMAN

Northwestern State University, Southeastern Louisiana University, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, University of Louisiana at Monroe and University of New Orleans, attended the conference on the third floor of the War Memorial Student Union Thursday, Feb. 1 and Friday, Feb. 2.

“I can talk about the importance of higher education,” said Edwards. “I can talk about how special our people are and that we want them to have opportunity. But if I’m not a good partner with the people in this room, that’s all it is. It’s talk.

I said when I ran for governor that the chief reasons I was running was if we had children in Louisiana that decided for some reason to leave our state to get an education, to find a job, and to have a rewarding career, that would be great. We should bless them and send them on their way.

But if we have our kids leaving our state because they believe they have to in order to get a good education, find that job and have a rewarding career, we have failed them. I do not intend to fail our children.”

In his speech during lunch on Feb. 1, Edwards addressed

Staff Reporter

The university hosted the inaugural University of Louisiana System’s “For Our Future Conference” featuring talks from Regional Vice President of Healthcare Strategic Relations and Business Development in AT&T’s Internet of Things Healthcare Group Judi Manis, Governor of Louisiana John Bel Edwards, UL System President Dr. James Henderson and the UL System’s university presidents.

Edwards said, “If you believe, as I do, that the future of this state, the future of the students, of the kids, and probably many of our students aren’t kids anymore, but if you believe that it’s tied to education, to work force development, to job training and you know that this is the largest education system in the state, then to a very real degree the future of Louisiana is in the hands of the people in this room.

I believe that.”

Officials from the nine institutions in the UL System, Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards attended the UL Systems’ inaugural “For Grambling State University, Our Future” conference, hosted at the university, where he spoke about the Louisiana Tech University, importance in funding for higher education and the recent accomplishments McNeese State University, in funding the Taylor Opportunity Program for Students. Annie Goodman/The Lion’s Roar Nicholls State University,

the accomplishments the government has made toward higher education since he stepped into office.

“For the first time in a decade, we didn’t cut higher education,” said Edwards. “That’s a great thing because it’s allowed university leaders just to take a deep breath and focus more on educating kids and not on keeping their campus open and making sure the lights come on when somebody walks in a room and flips a switch.”

Edwards then moved on to discuss a new business development in New Orleans that is expected to boost Louisiana’s economy.

“This is the single biggest economic win in the state’s history in terms of permanent direct jobs at one location,” said Edwards. “DXC Technology decides to invest in Louisiana.

They are gonna hire 2,000 people on a permanent basis, pay them an average salary of $63,000 per year. These are all clean IT jobs, and it’s gonna happen in New Orleans. There’s another 2,200 indirect jobs involved in that.

Number two in the country by

see GOVERNOR, pg. 2

Prepare for Mardi Gras closures STAFF REPORTS This semester’s Mardi Gras break will be three days lasting from Monday, Feb. 12 to Wednesday, Feb.14. Classes will resume on Thursday, Feb. 15. All dining locations will be closed from Saturday, Feb. 10 through Tuesday, Feb.13. On Wednesday, Feb. 14, Chickfil-a will be open from 8 a.m.

to 6 p.m., Mane Dish is open from 4 to 7 p.m., and Mane Market is open from 4 to 10 p.m. All locations will resume normal hours of operation on Thursday, Feb. 15.

Students are encouraged to stock up on items from campus convenience stores before the break, make sure they have Lion’s Lagniappe on

Weather

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their IDs to use at off campus locations and to utilize delivery programs offered by several local retailers. Students can add money to Lagniappe by visiting www.southeastern. edu/GET. They may also contact the MISA Office for information about the Campus Food Pantry. Visit our social Due to the Mardi Gras holiday, the campus will be closing at the beginning of media page for more updates. next week. Zachary Araki/The Lion’s Roar Index

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Campus Life.................................2 Opinions.....................................3 A&E............................................4

Horoscope, Crossword, Sudoku....5 Sports.........................................6 News..........................................8

At the press conference last Tuesday in Victory Club, Director of Athletics Jay Artigues announced veteran coach and Louisiana native Frank Scelfo as the new head coach of the Lions football program.

Artigues mentioned the criteria that Scelfo fulfilled to become the 16th head coach of the football program following the departure of coach Ron Roberts.

“In the search for our next football coach, there were a few traits that we wanted to identify,” said Artigues. “Number one, we wanted to identify someone who can fulfill the mission statement of our athletic department: committed to excellence in the classroom, in the community and in competition. Number two, a person who’s very visible in our community and in our state as well as teach our young men the importance of giving back to their community. Number three, someone that could have our program compete at the highest level to be a perennial power in the Southland Conference and a national FCS contender.”

Recruitment and connections with high schools was another factor in the decision making process.

“We also wanted to identify someone that will be able to connect our program with the high schools in our state as well as do a great job recruiting in the state of Louisiana,” said Artigues. “We feel we’ve identified all these traits and some in our new football Head Coach Frank Scelfo.”

Scelfo described the process of becoming the head coach of the program.

“Since the contact was made, conversations went back and forth,” said Scelfo. “In the meantime, you’re always exploring things. I was at the Senior Bowl last week. So, I got the chance to see some stuff.

I had a mixed championship Sunday. It’s been a lot of mixed emotion, lot of stuff going up and down, but to culminate in this, awesome.”

Scelfo was appreciative of his predecessor and his work in the program.

“I also want to thank coach Ron Roberts and his staff and their families,” said Scelfo.

“He put together a really good foundation here, and it’s a stable program right now. For their dedication to this program, this is a tough profession, and coach Roberts certainly epitomizes that. This is not a rebuilt program.

These guys have been winning.

They’ve got good players here.

They’ve been competitive.

Coach Roberts and his staff, like I said before, they’ve done a good job here.”

see SCELFO, pg. 6

Stay Connected With Us!

Volume 89, Issue 18

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A Student Publication www.lionsroarnews.com lionsroar@southeastern.edu

Page 2| February 6, 2018

McHodgkin’s retirement JENNIFER DETTWILLER Staff Reporter

Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs Jim McHodgkins will retire from the university after serving in different positions throughout his 31 years.

McHodgkins said that the exact day he started working at the university was Feb. 2, 1987, and his last official workday is scheduled for Feb. 23. He explained why he started thinking about retirement and the difficulties he faced when making the decision.

“I probably decided about six months ago, and yes it was kind of a hard decision ’cause I really enjoy what I’m doing,” said McHodgkins. “I was looking at just the financials. I just got double knee surgery done. So, I have brand new knees and I’m still fairly young. I’d get out and do a lot more things. And I felt that at this point, I’ve got the years in, and it would give me new opportunities.”

McHodgkins discussed the gratification he felt throughout his experiences contributing and developing in the university.

“Getting a chance to work with so many different students and then being able to do great things for them,” said McHodgkins. “One of the things I’m really proud of is that I had a big part in getting the Pennington Center up and going and helped with the construction of that. So, that was one of the things I’m really proud of.”

One experience that has left a lasting mark on McHodgkins is attending university students’

Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs Jim McHodgkins prepares for his retirement date on Feb. 23, 2018 making his time at the university just over the 31 years mark. Jennifer Dettwiller/The Lion’s Roar funerals.

“One of the things that is one of my duties probably over the last 20 years that I have done, is I attend all student funerals,” said McHodgkins. “So, if a student passes away during the year, I go to the wake and the funerals. That was kind of touching because you meet the families; I help those families get through the process of things that they have to do on campus, whether it’s returning textbooks or closing out accounts or working

with them to help get the stuff out of the housing. That can be a very emotional time for the families, and it also can be a very emotional time for me because I’m dealing with those individuals.”

McHodgkins finds it a rewarding circumstance because it says to the family, “I’m from the university and I’m here for you,” showing that the university cares for the students and he hopes to make the process a little easier.

He explained he has probably

Correction: In the Jan. 30 issue of The Lion’s Roar, it was stated that the Movie and Game Night sponsored by M.A.D.E. Men will be held on Feb. 28. The event date was changed to Feb. 21 after the publication ran. See page 8 and our social media pages to view the full Black History Month calender.

Student Government Association It’s finally the spring semester, and you know what that means.

“The Big Event” is right around the corner, and the Student Government Association encourages all students to join a team and participate. For those of you who do not know, “The

Big Event” is an annual day of service that encourages students to give back to the surrounding Hammond community. “The Big Event” will be held on Saturday, Apr. 21 with Saturday, Apr. 28 as a back up date pending the weather. We ask that interested

University Housing

been to around 30 plus funerals, and families he encounters are appreciative of the experience.

McHodgkins, throughout the years at the university, has also helped out with Student Government Association with some referendums they have done and has found it a rewarding experience with the amount of students and different people he has had the chance to work with.

McHodgkins, aside from being the Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs, has been impactful towards the university in his previous roles for the university.

“When I was director of recreational sports, I spent about 10 years in each one,” said McHodgkins. “I was in charge of all the recreation programs on campus. Everything from intramurals to open rec to aerobics classes. So, I helped create all those different programs, and that’s when we decided to try to go and try to get the Pennington Center.”

When McHodgkins was Assistant Dean of Student Development, he assisted and worked with different departments within student affairs.

“Such as SGA, rec. sports, multicultural at that point we had Greek life and we had student organizations, which is now student engagement,” said McHodgkins. “So, there was a lot of different areas, the counseling center, I worked with a lot of departments within student affairs and just helping them develop their program.”

participants please plan for both dates to ensure maximum participation. To register your team, visit southeastern.edu/ bigevent, and for any comments, questions or concerns, e-mail bigevent@southeastern.edu.

University Housing will be conducting informational sessions about the Resident Assistant position as well as interviews for fall 2018 positions. Candidates must be highly motivated individuals who want to make a difference in not only the lives of University Housing’s residents, but also in the lives of members of the community. Students interested in

the university Resident Assistant position are required to attend at least one informational in order to gain insight as to what being an RA entails. Once students attend at least one informational, they may be eligible to be interviewed for the RA position if all position qualifications are met. To apply for the position, visit https:// www.southeastern.edu/admin/

housing/empl_opp/ra/application/ index.html.

Applications are due Feb. 23, 2018. Informational sessions will take place at 6 p.m. on the following dates: Tuesday, Feb. 6, Wednesday, Feb. 7 and Wednesday, Feb. 21 in the Student Union Theater.

For additional information, email Selurecruitment@gmail.com or dequaz.humphries@selu.edu.

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The Lion’s Roar | Campus Life GOVERNOR

continued from pg. 1 Business Facilities Magazine in terms of economic development wins in the year 2017.”

According to Edwards, before DXC Technology decided to build in Louisiana, they expressed with Edwards the importance they too put on higher education.

“I can tell you when I sat down with the people from DXC Technology, and they were trying to decide whether they wanted to come to Louisiana, the questions they asked, the commitment they wanted, it wasn’t about our taxes,” said Edwards.

“They know we have the fifth lowest tax burden in the country. It wasn’t about the hurricane protection system in New Orleans. It wasn’t about any of those other things.

It was, ‘Governor, are you committed to higher education?

Are you committed to making sure that if we invest our money here, that we’re gonna have enough employees that we will be successful, employees that will know what they need to know, be able to do what they need to do?’ I then looked at him and said, ‘Absolutely.’”

Edwards feels the legislature not cutting

higher education in 2017 persuaded DXC to open in New Orleans.

“We then went into session last year, and for the first time in nine years, we didn’t cut our state funds for support in higher education and we fully funded the TOPS program,” said Edwards.

“And they turned around and made the announcement they were coming to Louisiana.”

E d w a r d s explained how a task force to analyze tax systems and provide recommendations was created, but the issue was never addressed in the 2017 legislative session.

“When I came into office two years ago for the first full fiscal year, we were looking at a deficit that exceeded

$2 billion,” said Edwards. “We fixed that problem in a very short-term way, a very temporary way, where the legislature raised some revenue.

And yes, we made cuts and we also achieved savings.

But the revenue that was raised, almost all of it expires June 30 of 2018.”

In order to further such growth, Edwards encouraged attendees to reach out to their legislators in regards to funding higher education in the 2018 “fiscal cliff.”

“Please don’t be silent,” said Edwards.

“Make sure your legislators know what it is you expect from them. I promise you they’re hearing from other people on other things. They need to hear from you about higher education.”

During the “For Our Future” conference, Student Government Association President Seth Leto, among others, spoke to university officials. Nikisun Shrestha/The Lion’s Roar

Opinions | The Lion’s Roar

February 6, 2018 | Page 3

Doping: Unfair play The world of sports is getting more competitive over time.

Athletes, in general, are stronger and faster now than ever before.

In an article by Business Insider Nikisun Shrestha on Aug. 14, 2016, Dr. Michael Staff Reporter Joyner, a physician and Mayo Clinic researcher said, “What you know for a fact is people began to train progressively harder starting some time around 1900.”

The athletes have reaped their rewards as well.

Numerous records in athletic events have been broken in recent times as athletes continue to exceed expectations and standards by not only improving physically but mentally as well.

However, there is a dark side to the race for achieving sporting glory. In a bid to become faster, stronger and better, the use of performance-enhancing drugs is frequently seen.

One of the recent instances of doping is the Russian athletes who have been banned from this year’s Winter Olympics. With the claims of former Russian anti-doping official Grigory Rodchenkov regarding the state-sponsored doping of Russian athletes, the International Olympic Committee had initially banned 43 athletes for life.

President of IOC Thomas Bach has described Russian doping as “an unprecedented attack on the

integrity of the Olympic Games and sport.”

The ban may seem like a severe ruling by the IOC. However, the effectiveness of the decision has come into question as 169 Russian athletes will still compete under a neutral flag. 42 of the 43 athletes that were banned have also appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. The ban has been overruled for 28 athletes.

In an interview with BBC Radio 5 live, Jim Walden, Rodchenkov’s lawyer, described his client’s life to be under serious threat.

The reinstatement of Russian athletes to the Winter Olympics has been met by strong opposition. Bryan Fogel, director of the Netflix documentary “Icarus,” which highlights the state-sponsored doping in Russia, gives his view in an interview with BBC Radio 5 live.

“When faced with the biggest scandal in Olympic history, a 40-year-scandal that calls into question the entire history of the Olympic Games, how do they act?” said Fogel. “They act by giving Russia a slap on the wrist.”

The IOC and doping is not a new scandal. It has been going on for years. The IOC has stripped increasingly more medals from athletes in each of the Olympic Games since the 2000 Summer Olympics.

Doping is also not limited to Olympic Games and Russia. One of the biggest doping scandals surrounds cyclist Lance Armstrong. He was stripped of his Tour de France titles after being guilty of using performance-

Russia’s winner Elena Nikitina celebrates after the women’s Skeleton World Cup race in Innsbruck, Austria. AP Photo/Kerstin Joensson

enhancing drugs. Major League Baseball has also had their fair share of problems with the accusations of players using performance-enhancing drugs.

In an article for The New York Times, professional cyclist Jonathan Vaughters writes why most of the athletes choose the route of doping.

He writes, “Doping can be that last two percent. It would keep your dream alive, at least, in the eyes of those who couldn’t see your heart.”

Vaughters highlights the competitive nature of modern sport and the extent to which athletes go to continue to live their dream.

SPEAK OUT How do you know you are in love?

Doping does not only affect those who use the drugs but also those who chose the clean path, worked hard but were denied of their goal due to cheating.

Although IOC might award them the medal in the later years after stripping the medal from the cheating athlete, the joy of getting the medal will never be the same as in the bigger stages of Olympics or a similar competition.

With the prevalent problem of doping, one can only hope for rigorous antidoping regulation and its implementation. But more importantly, one could hope for the athletes to make the right choice.

“Love is a commitment. It is not a feeling that is lost. So, when you’re committed to somebody, you try to make things work. You both have individual goals. You have to be an individual first before you become a couple. ” Victoria Alexius Management, Freshman

“I really don’t know how to answer this question because I have never been in love, but I think it’s when you find the person you click with.”

Morgan Brown General Studies, Junior

“You know you’re in love when you don’t have to change yourself or change the person that you’re with. Everything is not perfect, but it’s easy. There is nothing you know that you can’t fix between each other.”

Arely Infante Business Administration, freshman

“You just have to feel it. When you feel like the other person is your best friend and they just make you happy, you’re going home to who you want to go home to.”

Joshua Sapp Management, Senior

“You know you’re in love when there is nothing that can stop you from doing something for that person.”

Frederick Brown Communication, Junior

“I’d say you know you’re in love when you’re with that person, and that feeling of ‘I can’t stop looking at you. I can’t stop being with you’ never goes away. ” Shane Bergeron Engineering Technology, Freshman

“I think you know when you’re in love when you start putting the person that you love’s needs before your own and just thinking about the other person a lot more than you think about yourself.”

Claudio Franc Biological Sciences, Junior

“You know when you’re in love when you get those butterflies in your stomach whenever you’re around him, or whenever you think about that one person.”

Kitauge Sharp Social Work, Junior

“When you get a certain type of feeling, and you just feel like you can’t live without that person.”

Katelyn Rains Sport Management, Sophomore

Communication can make love ever lasting In this world, the word “love” exists as a question that no one seems to have the full answer to. “Does Jennifer Dettwiller love exist?” seems to Staff Reporter be the most important mystery surrounding the sentiment. Love exists in many ways, but when does someone know they’re in love and how can it last? I, myself, have been in a romantic relationship for quite some time now, and I am in love. I know this because he makes me laugh. He is my safe place, and we know that even if we are not always together, there are ways to make things work, especially on Valentine’s Day. The Merriam-Webster dictionary has

nine definitions for the word “love.” The definition I relate to most is, “A warm attachment, enthusiasm or devotion.” This is because that’s what I strive for in all my relationships. I believe the love one feels should bring you a sense of peace, a funloving atmosphere and strength.

Being in love with a significant other of any type comes with its obstacles, yes, but to make it last takes effort. Working as a pair to build as one and make a future together, is a part of being in love.

In my case, I knew I was in love when certain things occurred such as when we were able to goof off with each other and had cute names for each other that no one understood. When I found myself separated from him and wished he was there with me, I realized that no matter

what either one of us is going through, happiness or sadness, we are there for each other.

With the happy note of Valentine’s Day being around the corner and talk of romantic relationships, there are things to make any circumstance work. Expensive gifts are nice, but all anyone really wants is to feel loved and prioritized by the ones they love. Guys and girls alike want attention, and if you are in a long-distance relationship, like myself, FaceTime is your friend. Attention may sound needy, but it is the little things that go a long way.

Giving someone attention and giving them a piece of yourself is a big promise a lot of people are scared of because usually a person can change some of their ways and slowly become less selfish.

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 Student Union suite 1303. Annual mail subscriptions are $35 within the continental U.S. The Lion’s Roar, in its print form, and associated online or digital 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.

Slowly learning how to become each other’s backbone in certain situations is important.

Communication is key. Even if an issue feels irrelevant to bring up, do it anyway because if it comes up again and still feels a bit off, a conversation about it is the best way to heal. Fairy tales, romantic comedies and dramas leave this information out, but it is important for a thriving relationship. I know because I was the one who bottled things up until one day I exploded, and it wasn’t healthy for me or the people involved.

Just because you have a cute first meeting and it will make a great story or movie one day does not mean the relationship will last through the big stuff.

“There’s been trials and tribulations” as

Princess Tiana said in “The Princess in the Frog.” Issues will come up, and if you don’t want to deal with them, they may be a downfall in the relationship. So, it may be time to re-evaluate the relationship at hand and decide if the person you are with is worthy of you and all your personal glory.

Romantic relationships should feel like an empowering environment and like the two of you together can take on the world. It’s about picking each other up, supporting one another and remembering you always have a best friend by your side.

Love is easy and difficult with forever changing circumstances to test you, but it is an exciting day when you find someone and you can say to yourself, “That’s the human I want to spend every day with.”

The Lion’s Roar Staff Editor-in-Chief - Larshell Green Senior Staff Reprter - Jonathan Rhodes Distribution - Jesse Salminen II Office Assistant - Alyssa Larose Administrative Assistant - Gemma Carter Coordinator - Lorraine Peppo Director - Dr. Lee E. Lind

General Offices Student Union 1303 Mailing Address The Lion’s Roar SLU 10877 Hammond, LA 70402

Telephone Numbers 985-549-3527 (newsroom) 985-549-3842 (fax) 985-549-3748 (advertising) 985-549-3731 (Student Publications)

Like and follow @lionsroarnews.

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Page 4 | February 6, 2018

The Lion’s Roar | Arts & Entertainment

De-stress in downtown SARAH HESS Staff Reporter

Alumnae Brenna Barzenick and Britni Serou make a new leap in their business. The pair own the only yoga studio in Hammond, Downtown Yoga.

Located between The Steak House and Gypsy Hill Boutique, the yoga studio offers a space where they can focus on meditation and self-harmony. When walking into the building, clients can begin to de-stress, passing the living moss wall and taking the stairs or elevator where a “Namaste Y’all” welcome sign indicates that yoga students are about to enter an area of relaxation. Students reach the second floor, take off their shoes to enter the studio and begin an hour of yoga and meditation.

Previously located behind the Salad Station, Serou believes the move has opened up their potential to gain new clients including many university students. Their studio has a deep affiliation with the university offering students, faculty and staff of the university a discount.

One of their VIP customers was university mascot Roomie, who they taught actual yoga poses for promotional ads. They also work with many organizations on campus, giving lessons to the Lionettes, Phi Mu sorority, and Serou’s chapter of Alpha Omicron Pi. Serou explained how yoga can benefit college students

“For a college student, I would say to destress,” said Serou. “Relax ’cause I know tests and homework and that kind of thing can wear you down a bit. So, that would be a huge factor would be stress relief. Beyond that though, yoga is a great way to build strength and flexibility in the body versus some kinds of exercises might only give you one or the other. But, it’s also a really great way to help people pay attention and be present, which is what I love about it.”

Senior criminal justice major Molly O’Krepki, whose mom got her started doing yoga, uses yoga as a chance to de-stress and get exercise.

“I’m in class all day, so I’m just sitting around all day,” said O’Krepki. “I think it’s important to do something, for yourself. They have a lot of classes, different kinds at different times, which is really helpful. I don’t really always have time.

So just a variety of classes and times is really helpful for students and everybody that works.”

With a wide range of clientele instructors at Downtown Yoga and a variety of people, men and women, with a wide range of ages, from kids in their kid yoga classes to seniors in their 80s, they offer different courses that are beneficial to everyone. Downtown Yoga tailors their classes to where no matter the age or level of fitness, they have a class everyone can participate in.

Some classes offered include a free meditation class, single and private group sessions and rope

Roomie learns the warrior II pose in Brenna Barzenick and Britni Serou’s downtown yoga studio. Opportunities for relaxation and meditation can be found at the studio. Courtesy of Ashley Richardson wall classes where instructors teach by using ropes tethered to a wall as support and coming soon is chair yoga.

Serou’s love of yoga started at the university when she took her first yoga class during her freshman year and the next semester began

Retired university professor honored

Timothy Gautreaux.

Courtesy

of

Timothy

Gautreaux

PRAKRITI ADHIKARI Staff Reporter

Professor Emeritus of English and Writer-in-Residence Dr. Timothy Gautreaux’s “Signals: New and Selected Stories” was chosen by Wall Street Journal’s best books of 2017 list.

“Signals: New and Selected Stories” is a collection of short stories, which are set in Louisiana. According to Gautreaux, the tales are about working-class people and how they deal with their problems.

The book was published on Jan. 17, 2017.

Gautreaux, who started writing as a child in the 1950s, feels honored by the achievement he made.

“The Wall Street Journal has always been very positive about my writing, and naturally, I was honored when they chose ‘Signals: New and Selected Stories’ for their best books of 2017 list,” said Gautreaux.

Gautreaux started teaching creative writing and literature at the university in 1972 and retired from full-time teaching in 2003. He has currently moved to the position of writer-inresidence, the position awarded to a poet or a fiction writer, who has achieved distinction in his or her career, in order to mentor undergraduate and graduate writers enrolled in the creative writing concentration.

Gautreaux, who enjoyed writing stories and sending them to pen pals in California and Canada in his childhood, believes the achievement is important to have good publicity for the book.

“The publicity will be good for book sales, of course, but making such a list suggests that I haven’t lost my touch as a writer,” said Gautreaux. “I would point out that ‘Signals’ was also on National Public Radio’s list of best books for

2017, and was a paperback pick

by The New York Times Book Review.”

Gautreaux also authored “Same Place, Same Things” and “Welding with Children,” which are collections of short stories.

Department Head of English David Hanson shared why he thought Gautreaux’s achievement is important to the university.

“Tim Gautreaux’s short stories and novels are deeply rooted in this region,” said Hanson. “He grew up in Morgan City and attended Nicholls State for his undergraduate degree, later earning a Ph.D. at the University of South Carolina.

But drawing on a native region for stories, as does our other writer-in-residence David Armand, doesn’t limit the appeal of a writer’s stories to readers in that region as proven

by Dr. Gautreaux’s nationally recognized achievement.”

Gautreaux believes being raised in a working-class family was the inspiration for the book.

He shared why he believes it is important to get involved in the craft of writing.

“Writing literary fiction is

an art form, and like any art form, there’s a way to do it,” said Gautreaux. “The way involves the craftsmanship of choosing a voice, building a setting, drawing a character and plot, etc. Writing fiction is like music, painting and sculpting in that it’s not what you write about, but how you write it that counts.”

Gautreaux is retired from his work and spends his free time playing with his grandchildren and maintaining his home and acreage. He volunteers as a machinist and steam locomotive fireman and engineer for the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum.

Gautreaux thinks that aspiring writers should read a lot of books in order to become good writers.

“As far as writing fiction goes, read 100 books of the type you like and think about how the author uses words and sentences, how he puts a narrative together, why he made the writing decisions he did, and what is the origin of his material,” said Gautreaux.

“Unless you read a great deal, you’ll never be a good writer.”

teaching at the Pennington Student Activity Center. Serou and Barzenick have turned their love of yoga into a successful business and offer the spiritual and physical benefits of yoga to the Hammond community.

Western twist for upcoming concert JENNIFER DETTWILLER Staff Reporter

The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra will perform at The Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts with Guest Conductor Timothy Muffitt from the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra.

The production is scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 16, and it is set to last for two hours including a 20-minute intermission.

The Louisiana Philharmonic will perform Rossini’s “William Tell Overture,” Copland’s “Corral Nocturne and Hoe Down from Rodeo” and Beethoven’s “Symphony No. 6 ‘Pastoral’” for their theme of “Beethoven Meets the Wild West.”

“First of all, really high quality music, and these are always interesting pieces that they do,” said Executive Director of the Columbia Theatre Roy Blackwood. ”They usually play them in their entirety, which they will do this time. There are a lot of times when you hear excerpts or you’ll hear one or two movements, but frequently you don’t hear the

whole piece. But, they will do the entire three pieces.”

The Louisiana Philharmonic and conductor will participate in audience interaction during the show, educating the audience and engaging them on a more personal level.

“It’s not stuffy, and it’s really a lot of fun,” said Blackwood.

“Plus, you get to hear really high-quality music, and these are great selections.”

The pieces besides Beethoven are American-styled pieces the LPO will perform. With the “William Tell Overture” being the theme song from “The Lone Ranger,” the hope is that it will help bring the audience into the Wild West theme of the night.

“They do a great job, and they are very entertaining,” said Blackwood. “So, yeah it’s going to be a good show.”

Between the songs selected for the performance “Beethoven meets the Wild West,” the relation in the pieces may be heard throughout the passages that are performed in certain signature keys that are reminiscent of the other pieces conceptually to fit together according to Blackwood.

From wood shop to professor, still building forts ANNIE GOODMAN Staff Reporter

Professor of Theatre Design and Technical Directing Steven Schepker has been working at the university since 1993 doing scenic design, lighting design and technical corrections.

With an interest in wood shop, Schepker got his start in set design after visiting his friend in a play in high school.

“They were building scenery, and I was like, ‘I can do that,’” said Schepker. “So, I started in high school, and then later that spring, Six Flags was hiring. I grew up in St. Louis, and they have a Six Flags that’s open, unlike us, and I started working at Six Flags. So, I’ve been doing shows for 34 years.”

Schepker finds designing sets to be entertaining

because his job changes with every set.

“That’s what’s cool about my job,” said Schepker. “It’s different every time. The style of the show, the mood of the show, the atmosphere, the time period. It’s a combination of architecture and sculpture and art, and it’s that sort of combination that makes it really interesting every time. It’s always different. No two shows are the same. I’ve done some shows three or four times. Each time it’s different, depending on the director and the space and what you’re doing.”

Schepker was non-partial when choosing a job and did not plan to be working at the university.

“When I graduated from school, I just started putting out applications everywhere,” said Schepker. “I had them in Colorado. I had them in Illinois. I had them in Connecticut. I had never even been to Louisiana, and I sent an application

MARDI GRAS

continued from pg. 1 enjoy certain things that go on in our community,” said Cochran.

“So with the Mardi Gras parade, a lot of people enjoy Mardi Gras, but unfortunately, it is associated with that alcohol and drinking.

It is an exciting time, so we want to make sure that all of our community members can participate. So, we like to offer a familyfriendly environment where people feel safe and comfortable to bring out their kids and know that they’re going to be able to enjoy themselves as well, away from all that alcohol and tobacco use.”

TRACC member Paula Zachary discussed the preparation put into the event.

“We get other agencies involved, and they bring their games and whatever they want to pass out for the kids, and they stay involved with the coalitions,” said Zachary. “It’s all kinds of people coming together.”

Outreach and Enrollment Coordinator for Southeast Community Health Systems Rosa Locascio returned to “In the Zone” year after year for the kids.

“It’s a place to be safe for them, and at the same time, they have fun while we’re waiting for the parade,” said Locascio.

Sophomore biological sciences major Tegan Scott shared why E.L.I.T.E. Women participated in the event.

“We just wanted to have an impact on the community,” said Scott. “We wanted to show how we are leaders, and we are enjoying the time with the kids, hopscotching or using the chalk, and we give them beads and footballs just to encourage them.”

here, and I got an interview, and I came down.

That’s how I got the job. It was not a planned thing.”

Schepker said he enjoys working at the university because it is a unique line of work.

“It’s the students, actually, that make it the most interesting,” said Schepker. “What they know, what I can give to them, what they can do, and pushing them to be as good as they can be. That’s what I find the most challenging about teaching.”

According to Schepker, his students and colleagues keep his job interesting.

“I have, over 25 years, seen a lot of people come through the doors,” said Schepker.

“Working with them, it’s different every time.

It’s different every day. That’s what keeps me interested. The faces have changed, but we’re

Krissi Sims attended “In the Zone” and the parade with her son.

“I think it was great,” said Sims. “I love coming to the Hammond parade because my son loves it, and my friend Morgan loves it too.”

According to Cochran, the event has grown each year, reaching around 300 to 400 attendees since its inception in 2010.

Cochran said, “We’ve gotten feedback from some parents who have children who have really bad asthma, and they’ve told us that they were really excited because they were always worried they weren’t able to take their children to a lot of public events because that secondhand smoke triggers their asthma attack. So, I think that’s something that’s just awesome feedback that we’ve gotten even if we get to help one family with one child to come out and enjoy something they normally wouldn’t get to do.”

TRACC was started in 2008 to promote substance misuse prevention.

Cochran said, “Based off of a lot of the state surveys that we see, we’ve seen in Louisiana that it’s kind of part of our culture, this use of alcohol and tobacco and drugs. So, we’re just trying to spread that message to our community members and let them know that there are alternatives, and we are not necessarily for prohibition. We think that it is our right to drink when you’re of age and not to do it in excess. And that’s something too that we like to promote, that you can have a good time, but know the limit, always drink responsibly, have a designated driver. That’s really what TRACC is about.”

Sims shared her thoughts on Mardi Gras, the parade’s theme.

“I think it brings a lot of people together, lots of different

still doing the same thing, and that’s what makes it interesting.”

Schepker finds the most challenging part of designing sets to be the empty page.

“That’s always just terrifying,” said Schepker.

“There’s two happy days in a designer’s life, the day when you get started and the day the show opens. Everything in between there, that’s the hard part. The empty page is a terrifying thing.”

Schepker compared being a set designer to living in a fantasy.

“It’s challenging,” said Schepker. “It’s fun.

When I was a little kid, I used to build forts, you know, like with pillows and blankets. Now I use lumber, steel and aluminum, and I get to build really big forts. I get to play pretend every day. How many people get to play pretend every day?”

Participants in the parade throw beads and cups to attendees. The “Krewe of Omega Mardi Gras Parade” included Mardi Gras and animal-themed floats that went through Hammond. Zachary Araki/The Lion’s Roar cultures, and I just think the little kids enjoy it too,” said Sims.

Scott hopes to return to “In the Zone” next year.

“It’s really fun,” said Scott. “We got our decorations out. We got our beads out. We had a lot of kids come and play, and they love the footballs. They love the beads, and I just had a great time.

It’s a little chilly, but other than that, it’s been a great experience.”

Arts & Entertainment | The Lion’s Roar

February 6, 2018 | Page 5

HRAC executive director shares her goals New Executive Director of the Hammond Regional Arts Center Maureen Joyce was officially hired on Sept. 20, 2017.

Former Executive Director of HRAC Katherine Marquette officially exited her position on Sept. 15, 2017. Joyce spoke with The Lion’s Roar about her decision to improve, not alter the roles of executive director. Joyce’s goals center around growth and enhancement in her personal and professional journey.

LARSHELL GREEN Editor-in-Chief

The Lion’s Roar: How did you get the position at HRAC? Maureen Joyce: I spoke with Katherine Marquette during the opening on ‘Hot August Night,’ and she encouraged me to send my resume to the Hammond Regional Arts Center’s Board of Directors.

TLR: What are your goals as executive director at HRAC? M.J.: My goals at the HRAC are to grow membership and foster more partnerships and relationships with the community. I want the entire community to see how the quality of life improves for everyone when the arts thrive and flourish.

TLR: Do you plan to keep, alter or replace events at HRAC such as ‘Brews Arts Festival,’ TLR: Do you have a favorite artist? gallery openings and the ‘Literary Festival?’

M.J.: I have many favorite and inspiring M.J.: I don’t plan on replacing any events artists, entirely too many to list here. I have or programs, but I will work hard to improve, studied mostly Renaissance and Baroque art. refine and grow each event.

Johannes Vermeer inspired my largest body of artwork. Using a twin lens reflex camera, I TLR: What elements of Katherine created a collection of photographs that capture Marquette’s leadership style will you embody a solitary woman in a quiet moment in time with during your era, if any? If not, explain why. inaccessible thoughts with a dramatic single M.J.: I truly appreciate Katherine source of light and surrounded by soft details. Marquette’s leadership, dedication, loyalty and I can see something new in a Vermeer painting ability to create a firm foundation to grow the almost every time that I look at one. arts in Hammond. She dedicated her time and efforts to establish a standard of excellence TLR: Where are you from and what was in both the quantity and quality of work on your childhood like? exhibition here at the Hammond Regional Arts M.J.: I am originally from Baltimore, Center. I hope to maintain those standards and Maryland. My father died when I was quite see the Hammond Regional Arts Center moving young. Except for my time studying and living in a positive direction in the future due to her in Italy and France, I have lived in Louisiana leadership. She was instrumental in attracting ever since. me to the position. I am truly grateful, and I look forward to the exciting growth of the arts TLR: Did you attend a university? If so, in our community.

Executive Director of the Hammond Regional Arts Center Maureen Joyce sits at a table during the farmers market to what did you study and what was your time like promote HRAC’s “Hammond Rocks” initiative to promote kindness through 2018. Annie Goodman/The Lion’s Roar there?

TLR: What do you want people to know M.J.: Yes, I received both my bachelor’s and about you? master’s degree from Louisiana State University.

M.J.: I try to practice gratitude and I truly appreciate my education and time there. mindfulness daily. I need to emphasize, “try.”

I had amazing and inspiring professors and teachers and two opportunities to study abroad TLR: What do you hope to accomplish while I was there. during your legacy at HRAC? M.J.: I hope my legacy will be that I TLR: What were your previous job positions? encouraged growth in the organization, nurtured M.J.: I taught art history at Louisiana State creativity in the community, celebrated the University and Baton Rouge Community talents of artists and improved the quality of College. I taught English at St. Joseph’s life for those who stopped for a moment to Academy. I worked as the marketing director contemplate beauty, craft, intention and the at the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge. I enduring power of the arts. was a gallery assistant at Albert Blue Gallery.

I was the chef and owner of a farm-to-table, TLR: Where does your passion for art come vegetarian restaurant. from?

M.J.: My passion for the arts comes from my earliest blissful memories October 22) Your loyalty to a of drawing and painting as friend in a tough situation earns a child and then seeing the you respect from people you care powerful impact the arts play about. Those who criticize you in our history and culture. I don’t understand what friendship heard from a teacher at a ARIES (March 21 to April 19) is all about. very early age, ‘Daily life Stop being the wool-gathering SCORPIO (October 23 to can often attempt to crush Lamb, and start turning that November 21) Your strong work our souls. Art reminds us dream project into reality. You ethic is rewarded with the kind that we have one.’ have the ideas, the drive and the of challenging opportunity you charisma to persuade others to love to tackle. Now, go ahead and follow your lead. So do it. celebrate with family and/or close TAURUS (April 20 to May friends.

20) You’ve scored some big SAGITTARIUS (November successes. But remember that 22 to December 21) A legal matter all hardworking Ferdinands and you thought had been finally Ferdinandas need some time to resolved could require a second restore their energies and refresh look. But don’t make any moves their spirits. without consulting your lawyer.

SPONSORING GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) CAPRICORN (December 22 You’re gaining a stronger mental to January 19) Taking charge is image of what you’re trying to what you like to do, and since you achieve. Now look for the facts do it so well, expect to be asked to that will help get this to develop lead a special group. This could from a concept into a solid open an exciting new vista for you. proposal.

AQUARIUS (January 20 CANCER (June 21 to July to February 18) An important 22) Some of you eager-to-please matter might wind up being Moon Children might want entrusted to you for handling. The to delay some decisions until responsibility is heavy, but you’ll midweek, when you can again have support from people able think more with your head than and eager to help. your heart.

PISCES (February 19 to LEO (July 23 to August 22) March 20) A spouse or partner A new business venture seems might make an important, to offer everything you’ve been even life-changing, suggestion. looking for. But be careful that Consider it carefully. It could hold that rosy picture doesn’t betray some of the answers you’ve both traces of red ink under the surface. been looking for.

VIRGO (August 23 to BORN THIS WEEK: You September 22) A volatile situation always try to do the right thing, needs the kind of thoughtful and and for the right reasons. No considerate care you can provide wonder people have come to right now. There’ll be plenty of depend on you. time later to analyze what might (c) 2018 King Features Synd., Inc. have gone wrong.

LIBRA (September 23 to

“The arts, including everything from architecture and paintings to literature and film, not only bring us joy, significance and beauty in the moment, they also remain to tell our stories, our emphasis and our values for the future.”

-Maureen Joyce

Sponsored By

Page 6 | February 6, 2018

The Lion’s Roar | Sports

Baseball withstands the Scelfo looks to secure more competition of alumni in-state talent

New football Head Coach Frank Scelfo plans to elevate the program with a tough playing style and more recruiting in state. Scelfo has a wealth of experience, which includes working in the NFL and in Tulane University. Jonathan Rhodes/The Lion’s Roar Junior pitcher Mason Knopp prepares to pitch from the mound in the Alumni Game. Knopp will be playing his first season as a Lion in the upcoming spring season, SCELFO which begins with a game against Southern Illinois University Edwardsville on Feb. 16. Nikisun Shrestha/The Lion’s Roar continued from pg. 1 NIKISUN SHRESTHA Staff Reporter

The Lions baseball team matched up against the alumni of the program in an effort to assess their performance ahead of the start of the season.

On Feb. 3, the Alumni Game was hosted at the Pat Kenelly Diamond at Alumni Field. Head Coach Matt Riser explained how the game went and how the current team won.

“There were some good, and there were some bad things for us,” said Riser. “I think the alumni did a fantastic job putting the team together. Offensively, they’ve got a lot of guys playing pro ball, just finishing up pro ball. It’s competitive over there. We instilled that in them when they were here, and they have not lost that by any means. They enjoy going out there, playing against our guys, and gave us a pretty good look there. It came down to the last inning. We had to get a big hit, get the runs and then we closed it out in the ninth inning.”

Alumnus infielder and pitcher Derrick Mount described his experience playing against the team he played for.

“It’s a lot of fun,” said Mount. “Been out of baseball for a long time since the end of the season at the LSU Regional. I mean, it’s fun to come back and compete against the old team, see guys I haven’t seen in a while, talk to the coaches again.”

Mount was impressed with the ongoing improvement to the baseball facility.

“It’s amazing,” said Mount. “Got here two, three years ago, got the new jumbotron out there. They got the new turf last year. They got the new bleacher section out there. I mean, we keep doing good and keep getting good stuff out here.

It’s just looking really nice. They need to just keep playing well and keep growing.”

Mount also gave his assessment of the current team and wished them success for the upcoming season.

“They got a really good staff, got a lot of good pitchers,” said Mount. “They swing the bat really well, play good defensively. So, I am looking forward to watching them play this year. I wish them luck, and I hope they go further than we did last year.”

Ahead of the Alumni Game, on Feb. 2, the baseball team also hosted the “First Pitch Banquet.” The event featured a cash bar, silent auction, dinner, raffle and $2000 drawdown.

Riser was happy with the support seen at the banquet.

“I thought it was a fantastic turnout, specially considering all the circumstances with the Mardi Gras parade and everything going on, but it was extremely exciting to see all the family and friends of our program come out and enjoy a really fun night,” said Riser.

“I think everybody thoroughly

Alumni infielder Kevin Carr celebrates after his teammate reaches the home plate. The Alumni Game shaped up to be competitive with the game being decided in the final two innings. Nikisun Shrestha/The Lion’s Roar enjoyed themselves. We had a lot of action going on. We had a lot of winners on the night.”

During the banquet, senior pitcher Josh Green was the senior speaker. Riser was pleased with Green’s presentation at the event.

“I thought Josh Green, our senior speaker, did a fantastic job with his presentation,” said Riser. “He did a good job of being very direct and very simple with the delivery of his speech, but it was a very, very powerful speech.”

With the season opener against Southern Illinois University Edwardsville on Friday, Feb. 16, Riser wants the team to improve in certain aspects of the game. Riser also pointed out how the Alumni Game was a wake-up call for his team.

“We had some guys with pitch running roles, pitch hitting roles, defensive replacement roles,” said Riser. “We saw some good things that were exciting. We saw some things we need to work on in the next few weeks. The good thing is we’re two weeks out. We got time to get this thing right. There’s a lot of jobs that are open. I just like to see our competitive level go up a little more. I think some guys are still in the intersquad mode and don’t realize what they’re competing for right now. I think they got a pretty good look today with the alumni. The alumni came out here and started talking a little bit of trash and doing their deal. I think it opened our guy’s eyes a little bit of how competitive this is gonna be for the rest of the season.”

Having worked with NFL’s Jacksonville Jaguars as an offensive assistant working with the quarterbacks, Scelfo described how he would bring in his his experience at the highest level to the Lions program.

“You coach people,” said Scelfo. “You teach people. You develop relationships, and it’s not different coaching the NFL level as far as developing relationships with your players. In college football, you got to develop relationships with those guys.

Those players got to trust what you were gonna do for them, challenge them to be better players and better people every day. You can’t sit back and say, ‘I coached here, and therefore I am.’ It’s an ongoing process. 35 years being in this profession helped prepare me for this.”

Scelfo played against the Lions when he was on staff at Tulane University.

“We’ve played them at the Tiger Stadium,” said Scelfo. “We had to score late in the game to win the game during the Katrina season. I’ve seen it close enough where we’ve recruited against them. I know they’ve recruited some quality players. We can get what we want here. This campus has exploded. There’s all kinds of changes. It’s really a neat time to be part of this organization.”

Scelfo explained how he wants

his team to play offensively and defensively.

“Offensive philosophywise, we’re gonna play hard,” said Scelfo. “We’re gonna play physical. We’re gonna be a dominant football team. I’m looking forward to the way our guys react this spring. I want to be a physical football team. We’re gonna be a physical football team all round. I want our guys to fly around. Defense has a lot to do with effort, and we’ll portray that every Saturday.”

Scelfo addresses the Lion fans and commends their support for the program.

“I’d like to thank the alumni and the fans,” said Scelfo. “Since I became involved in the process, you can’t believe how much of outpouring of support I’ve gotten.

It’s been pretty cool to see, visit and talk to so many alumni that I didn’t know attended Southeastern. ‘Lion for life’ is not just a hashtag here.

It’s a pretty neat deal. I promise to take care of your program that you so passionately love.”

One of the important element that Scelfo wants to bring to the program is bringing the in-state players to the program.

“I was born and raised in this state,” said Scelfo. “My dad, born in Bogalusa, raised in Bogalusa, coached high school football.

Mom, born in Lafayette, raised there, high school math teacher. It was born and bred in me, this state of Louisiana. There are enough good players in this state, and we’ll start our recruiting efforts here.”

Sports | The Lion’s Roar

February 6, 2018| Page 7

Basketball teams sweep past UCA

Sophomore guard Tyler Morrison tries to take the ball back in the second half. The Lady Lions’ defense and unity were credited for their double-overtime victory over University of Central Arkansas. This was their fourth win against conference opponents and their fifth overall victory of the season. Jacob Summerville/The Lion’s Roar

Senior guard Joshua Filmore attempts to finish in the 89-84 victory against Central Arkansas. The Lions are currently tied for third place in the Southland Conference with Sam Houston State and want to climb the ladder in the conference by playing more consistently. Jonathan Rhodes/The Lion’s Roar

JACOB SUMMERVILLE

JONATHAN RHODES

Staff Reporter

The women’s basketball team faced two teams with winning records in Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi and University of Central Arkansas last week.

Their week started with a 56-52 loss at Corpus Christi on Jan. 31 at 7 p.m. The Lady Lions trailed by a few points for most of the game, ending the first half 30-31. The team closed the gap slightly late in the fourth quarter with a field goal by junior forward Kyla Williams, which brought the score to 52-54.

Head Coach Ayla Guzzardo discussed the team’s performance.

“It was a well-fought game overall, offensively and defensively,” said Guzzardo.

“It’s a very good team and a very good program that they have.

It could’ve been in our favor, but you know, some stretches down the road kinda hurt us. We couldn’t make some shots that we had a good opportunity to hit.”

Guzzardo specified some aspects of the game she was proud of.

“The one thing I was very proud of tonight was our bench,” said Guzzardo. “Kyla Williams played an exceptional game tonight, and there was no doubt that we were going to go to her for the last play of regulation. It was a well-fought game, but it didn’t come out in our favor.”

For the Lady Lions, the non-

starting lineup scored almost half the team’s points. Guzzardo stated how turnovers were the deciding factor in the game’s turnout.

“Foul trouble obviously hurts us early on,” said Guzzardo. “We had two starters in foul trouble with two fouls each, but that didn’t make us lose the game at all. It was the turnovers down the stretch in the second quarter that hurt us a lot. We allowed them to get back in the game, even taking care of the ball in the third. So, I would say turnovers.”

Following the loss last Wednesday, the Lady Lions defeated the Central Arkansas Sugar Bears in the University Center on Feb. 3. This was the first game in roughly four years that the Lady Lions won in double overtime, the last win being at Houston Baptist University in 2014.

Guzzardo expressed her satisfaction after the win.

“The resilience that our team put out, not only during regulation, but the extra 10 minutes that we played, speaks loud of their character and the type of people that they are,” said Guzzardo. “They fight every day. They work hard in the offseason. They worked hard in the preseason. They work hard during practice now. So, they deserve it.”

Senior guard Taylin Underwood also shared her excitement and relief following the victory.

“It feels great because we’ve definitely been working hard,”

said Underwood. “Even though our losses don’t show that, we’ve been working hard. We’re such a different team from the beginning. So, it feels really good.”

Underwood also led the team in points, scoring 26 points.

Williams followed close behind with 22 points.

Even though the Lady Lions’ offense had a high score at the game’s conclusion, Underwood and Guzzardo both expressed how the defense was a main contribution to the team’s success.

“We played such a great team game today,” said Underwood.

“The defense was awesome. We knew that our defense had to be on point today to get the win.”

Guzzardo had similar views pertaining to the defensive efforts.

“It was defensive stops,” said Guzzardo. “Through and through, that’s where we’ve been winning basketball games. We can score a lot of points, but if we don’t get defensive stops, it’s not our games. So, the defensive effort was there tonight. It got the win.”

Williams explained how she played and how the team’s unity was the key to their success.

“I would definitely say it was one of my best games, but as a whole, we played as one,” said Williams. “We played for each other because we knew we wanted to win. So, we did what we had to do. We wanted to win because we lost last game.

So, I think just that fire we had from losing came out to win this game.”

Guzzardo felt that the team’s energy wasn’t changed even though the game against Central Arkansas went to double overtime.

“We kept it consistent,” said Guzzardo. “We went make. We went zone. We went misses. We went man. It was working for us in the beginning of the game, kept us in the game. So, we went back to what we know was working for us traditionally.”

The Lady Lions will take on the University of the Incarnate Word at home on Feb. 7.

Senior Reporter

The Lions basketball team suffered a loss to Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi 6754 in the University Center, but bounced back and defended their home against University of Central Arkansas with an 89-84 win.

The Lions are currently tied for third place with Sam Houston State University in the Southland Conference, but Head Coach Jay Ladner believes that the team needs to be more consistent to move up in the conference.

“We have to learn how to handle success better,” said Ladner. “This is what happened last year to us.

We address it, but again, it is like when your parent tells you to not put your hand on the stove so you do not get burnt, and you do it anyway. We just seem to keep going back to the stove with it. We are going to work to figure it out.

If we are going to be a contender, which is what our intent is, then we are going to have to do better.”

The Lions have not beaten Texas A&M-Corpus Christi since 2013. Senior shooting and point guard Eddy Polanco feels bad that the team was unable to give the

1,023 fans, who showed up to the game on Jan. 31, a victory.

“It was disappointing,” said Polanco. “We had a big win at Nicholls. Not only did we disappoint our teammates and our coaches, but we disappointed a lot of fans that showed up. There was a lot of people that I have never seen before.”

The Lions were determined not to disappoint on Feb. 3 against Central Arkansas. The Lions shot 66.7 percent from the field in the second half and came back from being down eight points at halftime.

Redshirt senior forward Jordan Capps scored 26 points, and junior guard Marlain Veal led the Lions with 11 assists and four steals.

“I was proud of the way our team bounced back in that second half,” said Ladner. “This was a huge win for us. It was not the best win, and certainly we got a lot of work to do, but to be able to sweep Central Arkansas for the season might serve us well in the future.”

A recurring theme in both games was how slowly the Lions offense got into a rhythm and started to make the game interesting. Specifically, in the game against the Bears, more free throw attempts were made, and

the Lions were gradually more aggressive by scoring in the paint through their post players like Capps and junior forward Moses Greenwood.

Ladner wants to avoid being in these situations where they must come back from behind to win games.

“I am not happy with the way we are starting games,” said Ladner. “We are going to get it straight. I don’t know what it is or if we need to change the lineup. Time after time, we will either get down by nine points to Nicholls or be done by eight like against Central Arkansas. It is just unacceptable, and we know it.

But we are going to get it straight whether that is changing the warm up or the lineup.”

The Lions will hit the road tomorrow to compete against the University of the Incarnate Word at 7 p.m.

Ladner wants the team to focus on the upcoming game and not look too far ahead in the schedule.

“I told them to quit talking about where we are in the standing and what we got to do to get higher and let’s play one game at a time,” said Ladner. “If we just take care of our business, then everything else will take care of itself.”

Runners shine at LSU meet JONATHAN RHODES Senior Reporter

The track and field team showcased its speed and stamina at the Carl Maddox Field House in the LSU Bayou Bengal meet by placing first in five competitions.

Head Coach Corey Mistretta liked what he saw from the team.

“It was really good today,” said Mistretta. “We knew that last week we were knocking some dust off, and this week they are coming out and doing really good. We had a couple of personal bests, which is really good. It’s nice to see the kids are competing, and with a few weeks before conference, hopefully, we can keep improving.”

Sophomore Grant O’Callaghan won the mile

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run once again as he did at the McNeese Indoor II, finishing with a personal best.

Freshman Adam Cortez took the 3000-meter run by finishing with a new career best.

Junior Tajh Lewis finished in first place in the 800 meters followed by his teammate freshman Jonathan Respress.

Freshman Anthony Cordero finished in second place in the mile run and in the 3000-meter run.

Both the Lions and Lady Lions 4x400 relay teams finished in first place. The Lion “B” relay team finished in second behind the “C” team. This is the second consecutive first place finish for the Lady Lions relay team.

Mistretta encouraged his athletes to work their hardest for this meet.

“The biggest goal for us was just to compete,” said Mistretta.

“We felt last week, especially the players are so young, that they were nervous going into their first time ever competing in college, and they were a little rusty coming back from the Christmas break. I told them to just compete and trust the training that we are doing and we will see what is happening, and that is what we saw.”

Distance Coach Rocky Capello explained how the distance runners are preparing for the meets each week leading

up to the conference meet.

“We are just coming out of base work, so mostly stamina and barely any speed training,” said Capello. “We are just trying to get our endurance up so that when it is time to run that championship in three weeks, they will put in a little speed at the end, and hopefully, we will have some personal records.

Everything is going to plan. If we stay healthy and finish the workouts, I think we will be in good shape.”

Capello has his athletes focus on one meet at a time and tells them to take advantage of each of their opportunities.

“Every meet is another chance to hit a personal record, and they understand that,” said Capello.

“Even though we are in base training, all of our girls in the mile run got a personal record, and all of the guys in the mile run got a personal record. This is the first time they have run the mile all season. When you do this in the first mile indoor, that gives you an idea of where you are going to be in the outdoor season in April. They see that path, and they see those progressions. If they do what they are supposed to do, they will have huge personal records, and that is the goal.”

The track and field team will head to Birmingham, Alabama, for the Samford Open on Feb. 9 and 10.

Page 8 |February 6, 2018

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Foles, Eagles outshoot Patriots for 1st Super Bowl, 41-33 MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — As their delirious fans sang their theme song and their owner lifted the Lombardi Trophy, the Philadelphia Eagles finally could breathe freely.

Yo, Philly, you really did beat Tom Brady and the New England Patriots in a thrilling Super Bowl that rewrote the offensive record book.

Nick Foles guided the drive of a lifetime, Zach Ertz made a bobbling touchdown catch that had to survive replay review, and an exhausted defense came up with two stands in the final moments Sunday for a 41-33 victory. For the first time since 1960, the Eagles are NFL champions.

“Fly Eagles Fly,” indeed.

“We’ve played this game since we were little kids, we dreamed about this moment,” game MVP Foles said. “There’s plenty of kids watching this game right now dreaming about this moment and someday will be here.”

In a record-setting shootout between backup QB Foles and New England Patriots’ Tom Brady (12) runs from Philadelphia Eagles’ Brandon Graham during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl 52 football game Sunday, Feb. five-time champ Brady of the 4, 2018, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey) favored Patriots, Foles led a

Black History Month Events Calendar We Are Black History Tuesday, Feb. 6 at noon - Student Bake Sale Fundraiser Union Breezeway Wednesday, Feb. 7 at 11 am - Main Presented by ELITE Women Campus Presented by Zeta Phi Beta Lecture: African-American Sorority, Inc. Troops in World War II Tuesday, Feb. 6 at 1 pm - Student Poetry Slam Union Theatre Wednesday, Feb. 7 at 6 pm Presented by Department of Pennington 107 History and Political Science Presented by NAACP Associate Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Director of HIV Tabling Monday, Feb. 19 at noon - Student the Center for Continuing Studies and Professor of History at Xavier Union East Lounge University Marcus Cox is the author Presented by Sigma Gamma Rho of “Segregated Soldiers: Military Sorority, Inc. Training at Historically Black Culture Night Colleges in the Jim Crow South."

Monday, Feb. 19 at 6:30 pm Student Union Theatre Soul Sync Battle Tuesday, Feb. 6 at 7 pm Presented by Black Student Union Pennington Rooms 107-108 This annual talent showcase Presented by NAACP features students showing off their various talents, such as poetry, dance Nupe Talk and singing, in honor of Black History Tuesday, Feb. 6 at 7 pm - Student Month.

Union Room 2216 Set the Record Straight Presented by Kappa Alpha Psi Tuesday, Feb. 20 from 11 am to 2 Fraternity, Inc.

pressure-packed 75-yard drive to the winning touchdown, 11 yards to Ertz with 2:21 to go .

Then Brandon Graham stripsacked Brady and Derek Barnett recovered, setting up rookie Jake Elliot’s 46-yard field goal for an 8-point lead.

Brady got his team to midfield, but his desperation pass fell to the ground in the end zone.

“For us, it was all about one stop we had to make. We went out here and made that one stop,” Graham said.

The underdog Eagles (16-3), even injured starting quarterback Carson Wentz, came bolting off the sideline in ecstasy while Brady sat on the ground, disconsolate.

It was the first Super Bowl title for Philadelphia (16-3), which went from 7-9 last season.

“If there’s a word (it’s) called everything,” Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie said. “That’s what it means to Eagles fans everywhere. And for Eagles fans everywhere, this is for them.”

-By Barry Wilner, AP Pro Football Writer

Event dates, times and locations are subject to change. Follow the organization’s social pages for updates.

pm - Student Union E. Pavilion Presented by CAB Presented by Delta Sigma Theta Presented by Black Student Union Watch the football classic Sorority, Inc. Stop by and share a song or lyric "Remember the Titans" on our that resonates with you or shaped football field!

MISA Happy Hour black culture in America.

Wednesday Feb. 28 at 5 pm The Journey of Kenyan Location TBD Soul Food Night Thursday, Feb. 22 at 3:30 - Student Presented by MISA Tuesday, Feb. 20 starting at 4 pm - Union Ballroom Mane Dish Presented by the Department of Definition of Black Presented by Dining Services Languages Wednesday, Feb. 28 at 7 pm Location TBD Young, Black & Gifted Trap Karaoke Presented by Kappa Alpha Psi Tuesday, Feb. 20 at 5:30 - Computer Thursday, Feb. 22 at 7 pm - Bone- Fraternity, Inc. Science & Technology Building a-Fide Wings in Hammond Presented by MADE MEN Presented by Black Student Union For more information about any of the above events, please contact NPHC Showcase Afrikan Dance Class the Office of Multicultural and Tuesday, Feb. 20 at 7 pm in Pottle Feb. 26 at 6:08 pm - Pennington International Student Affairs at Auditorium 228 (985) 549-2120 or multicultural@ Presented by National Pan-Hellenic Presented by Alpha Kappa Alpha southeastern.edu.

Council Sorority, Inc. Sims Library is celebrating the Black Panther Barbershop Talk lives & achievements of AfricanWednesday, Feb. 21 at AMC Monday, Feb. 26 at 6:30 pm - American history makers from Theater at Hammond Square Student Union 2207 Southeast Louisiana during Black Presented by Project PULL Presented by The Lion's Den History Month. Follow Sims Library on Twitter or Facebook as they post Film on the Field Back to Your Roots daily snapshots of people who made Wednesday, Feb. 21 at 7pm Tuesday, Feb. 27 at 7:15 pm - a difference locally and beyond. Each Strawberry Stadium Location TBD post has links to books/videos at Sims