Issuu

Hammond, LA

May 5, 2020

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

‘Mask Up & Make a Difference’ combats supply shortages BRYNN LUNDY Staff Reporter

The College of Nursing and Health Sciences is partnering with the Southeastern Foundation to help with the low supply of medical masks for healthcare workers amidst the global emergency. The project will also aid current and future graduates of the university who are working on the front lines. The initiative, called “Mask Up & Make a Difference,” provides a means for volunteers to do one of four tasks to help the cause. Volunteers can collect supplies and donate them, make a monetary donation to the Southeastern Foundation to aid the purchase of more supplies, help sew partially or fully completed masks or teach others how to do so. Melanie Easley, an administrative coordinator for Physical Plant Services, has donated some of her time to the cause by sewing multiple masks. Her reasoning for participating in the project is twofold. “I wanted to do this because sewing is kind of a lost art with the younger generation, and I think there are so few of us that do this,” said Easley. Alumna Valerie Saba is one of many volunteers to make and donate masks to the “Mask Up & Make a Difference” initiative. Easley’s sister-in-law is a nurse Each mask, all supplies and every monetary donation will go toward assisting front-line healthcare workers during this practitioner in the New Orleans time of low inventory and high demand. Courtesy of Valerie Saba area. Sewing masks is a way for

Students with loved ones in the medical field forced to make additional adjustments DYLAN MECHE Staff Reporter

Throughout the past several weeks, students have been forced to stay at home with their families as Louisiana responds to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Some students with parents in the medical profession have had to make additional adjustments. On March 22, Gov. John Bel Edwards issued a stay-at-home order which directed the closure of businesses deemed as nonessential such as movie theaters and barbershops. Businesses deemed as essential, including healthcare providers, have been permitted to remain open and have adapted their operation to address the pandemic. Several students have parents who are currently working jobs that are considered essential, including senior kinesiology major Claudia Rome. “My mother works for Humana insurance company,” said Rome. “While she is not

working directly against the disease, she works countless hours to help get food and supplies to the elderly to make sure that they are safe and healthy.” During the pandemic, Rome has continued to work at a physical therapy clinic that treats patients recovering from surgeries. “While both my family and I are not working on the front lines to help fight the disease, working in the healthcare industry right now means that you are always fighting the disease,” stated Rome. “We have to wear protective equipment in all aspects. We work countless hours to make sure the patients are getting the care they need.” Rome also shared that her boyfriend is working as a pediatric ICU nurse. Rome described how his essential job has affected her and her family. “He is working the front line in protecting patients,” said Rome. “He has not seen any of us since this has started. He normally strips from his scrubs as soon as he gets home and changes into normal clothes so the house

isn’t contaminated. He wears a gas mask, and he is starting to get bruises on his face because of it. He is mentally and physically tired, yet he wants to go back in day after day because he wants to treat the patients.” Sarah Shoun, sophomore kinesiology major, also described what it is like to have a loved one working in healthcare during this pandemic. “My mother is a nurse practitioner,” shared Shoun. “I get to hear stories from her about patients who are fighting for their lives, and in general, stay up to date with current news and events regarding the coronavirus.” Shoun described the additional safety measures that she and her family are taking due to her mother’s essential job and how it has affected her. “We have had to stay away from loved ones and avoid shopping and interacting with people,” said Shoun. “However, since we are told to stay at home, I have been able to hang out with my family more and enjoy more quality time with them.”

her to help essential workers and make a difference while staying at home. “I see all of these endless hours that doctors and nurses put in, as well as other essential workers, and felt that this little thing that I could do might help,” shared Easley. “My heart goes out to them. It makes me feel like I’m making a contribution to this huge mess we’re in right now. I pray for these people.” Joan Guzzardo, volunteer for “Mask Up,” has sewed and donated over 30 masks to this project. “I think it’s a worthy cause, and I think the mask is good protection for all people to wear,” expressed Guzzardo. “I’m a cancer patient right now, and it gives me something to do at home. This is a crazy, crazy time right now, but I think it’s the best thing we can do as a society to help one another.” Valerie Saba, a university alumni, is another “Mask Up” volunteer. She commented on how the task of crafting masks has affected her quarantine experience. “I think it’s made it better because I feel like I’m contributing or doing something,” said Saba. “I’m not just staying at home. I am working a little bit from home online, but it makes me feel like I’m doing something.”

Student summer jobs affected by pandemic AUSTIN DEWEASE Staff Reporter

With the progression of the global pandemic, students have had to change their summer plans. After the spring semester, students typically work to help pay fees for the rest of the year. Now that job opportunities are harder to find, students have expressed their concerns for the upcoming months. Emma Lawless, a sophomore English education major, had two retail jobs before the pandemic. Being out of work has made Lawless uncertain about her future plans. “I am supposed to go back to work at both of these places once this ends, but it does not look like this will end anytime soon,” stated Lawless. “We have discussed doing pick-up from stores at both of my jobs so customers can still shop, and we can still have a job, but nothing is certain yet.” Jenna Burns, a freshman visual arts major, is still employed at an essential business but has decided to take leave. “I made this decision because my mom, who I live with, has chronic bronchitis,” explained Burns. “It could be fatal for her if I happened to bring the virus home after being directly exposed to hundreds of customers every day.” Burns considered moving Protesters take part in a demonstration against California’s stay-at-home orders People protest Gov. Whitmer’s stay-at-home order due to the coronavirus into an apartment to continue that were put in place due to the coronavirus outbreak, in Rancho Cucamonga, pandemic outside the Michigan State Capitol in Lansing, Mich. on Thursday, working her summer job but has Calif., Sunday, May 3, 2020. Watchara Phomicinda/The Orange County Register via AP April 30, 2020. Matthew Dae Smith /Lansing State Journal via AP had some challenges.

Nationwide protests against pandemic shutdowns continue

Weather

Tuesday H 88 L 60

Index

Wednesday H 82 L 54

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

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

She believes this initiative will not only aid the workers receiving the masks but will encourage more people to wear them. “I think it’s great,” said Saba. “I think more people need to do it. I feel like if more people participated, then I think more people would be wearing masks. I think it’s a great give-back to the community.” Kayla Caldwell, a sophomore communication major, shared her sentiments about the university’s initiative. “I think it’s great because the more masks we can provide for health-care workers, the more healthy workers we will have to help those in need with no extra problems or workers at risk of getting sick,” expressed Caldwell. “Therefore, the more people they can nurse back to health.” Volunteers who are willing, able and interested in helping with the project can find more information, download a mask pattern or make a donation at southeastern.edu/maskup. Email cnhs@selu.edu to ask questions, to request materials for making masks or to deliver partially completed or fully completed masks. There is also a collection box where masks can be dropped off, at 400 Mane St., under the Kinesiology and Health Sciences Building breezeway.

Stay Connected With Us! Like and follow @lionsroarnews.

“I haven’t found anything that I could afford, and I definitely don’t earn enough to pay monthly rent,” shared Burns. With few job opportunities, students have unseen financial burdens. Kaitlin Taylor, a sophomore English education major, cannot work over the summer and hopes that her unemployment benefits will continue to give her money to pay her bills. “The pandemic has made it so I cannot work to make a living,” said Taylor. “I am surviving solely on unemployment currently.” Taylor did not receive the government stimulus check because she is claimed as a dependent on her parents’ taxes, so she cannot earn extra money to pay her bills. “I don’t know how much I would make during the summer since I had only worked as a server for a few months before all this, but I am sure it would be more than I am making now,” added Taylor. Gabby Messina, a junior English major, did not receive any forms of compensation for the pandemic because she works as a Resident Assistant for University Housing. “The money that I would’ve gotten from either a stimulus check or unemployment is tremendously more than I make in three months of work,” said Messina. “It’s more than what I would’ve made in a summer if I was able to have a consistent job as well.” Volume 91, Issue 29 A Student Publication www.lionsroarnews.com lionsroar@southeastern.edu

PAGE 2 | MAY 5, 2020

The Lionʼs Roar | CAMPUS LIFE

Library maintains engagement off campus DANIEL MCCLAIN STAFF REPORTER

Although the building is closed, the Sims Memorial Library is operating virtually to ensure that students get the help and resources they need for their classes. During the stay-at-home order, the library has continued to maintain its 24/7 online chat assistance. Eric Johnson, library director, explained the other ways the librarians have been staying involved with students. “In addition to the online chat, students can secure help from the librarians via email, chat and telephone,” said Johnson. The library has been improving its technological side by expanding its variety of ebooks, streaming videos, online articles and more. “In recent years, the library has made a concentrated effort to move from a mostly print to a mostly electronic journal collection, as well Sims Memorial Library has the guide “Using Sims Library during COVID-19 closure” available for students. The guide as adding scholarly ebooks collections,” shared contains information on accessing databases, including 40 temporary resources provided by database vendors, course Johnson. “As a result, students now have access to reserves, research help and other information. ELANA GUILLORY/THE LION’S ROAR half a million ebooks, thousands of online articles, many full-text and thousands of streaming videos

on a variety of topics.” Johnson spoke on how the librarians have been able to help students. “If we don’t have access to a particular article that is needed, the student can request articles electronically, and they will be delivered to the students’ Interlibrary Loan accounts as usual,” stated Johnson. “The librarians have also created over a hundred LibGuides, accessed from the library’s website, that provides information for doing research in many areas of study, some specific to individual classes or programs at Southeastern.” The library initially planned two events for National Library Week but was unable to have either. “For National Library Week, which this year occurred between April 19 and 25, the library normally presents an evening program entitled ‘Readings at Sims,’ featuring five or six local authors reading from their works, and a semiannual book sale for three days,” stated Johnson. Johnson shared his hopes that the library will be able to hold the events next year.

see LIBRARY, pg. 6

Southeastern Channel students win Associated Press awards TRINITY BROWN STAFF REPORTER

As the semester comes to a close, the Associated Press announced winners of the Louisiana-Mississippi Associated Press College Broadcasters Awards. The awards are normally presented to students at the annual APCB Awards ceremony, but due to COVID-19, they were announced through email on Friday, April 17. Each university that submitted recordings of their broadcast news channel in the Louisiana-Mississippi regions were notified of their honorees. Out of 12 categories, the Southeastern Channel won six first-place awards, more than any other college in the region. The Channel also had multiple first and second-place winners. Gabrielle Cox, Dylan Domangue and John Sartori won first place for Sportscast with their weekly aired show, “The Big Game.” An individual first-place award for best sports story titled “Last Southeastern Football Ranking” went to Sartori. Second place in the same category

was awarded to Domangue for his sports story titled “Jaclyn Scholvin.” All three students are graduating seniors and are going on to pursue a career in broadcast television. Sartori explained his initial reaction to finding out he won both the best Sportscast and the best story. “I was really happy, and I just thought it was really awesome to see all the hard work we had put in had paid off,” said Sartori. “Especially because we all love ‘The Big Game,’ and so we as seniors take a lot of pride in our work.” Sartori mentioned that he did not expect to win first place when working on his story. “It was just a showcasing of Southeastern’s football season and ranking because I wanted people to see how long it had been since SELU had been top-five ranking,” shared Sartori. All three students explained that Rick Settoon, the general manager of the Southeastern Channel, sends in what he thinks is the best work and waits for results. “We do the show, we review it

and Mr. Rick says this is a good show and submits it,” said Cox. Cox described the feeling of winning her first APCB award after being a part of the Southeastern Channel since 2016. “I was at work and saw the email, called my mom and dad instantly and it was just a great feeling to know it paid off,” said Cox. “It was just an honor to get the award.” Domangue mentioned that the awards were a product of their best work. “We have 11 to 12 shows at the Channel,” explained Domangue. “Each individual can do up to nine to 10 stories. Nothing is forced, we just do our best and choose which show was the best and send it in.” Domangue’s individual story was on Jaclyn Scholvin, a former player on the women’s basketball team. Scholvin’s mom had passed away as a kid, and her stepfather passed during her senior year at the university. “It was her idea, and Mr. Rick said it would be a good feature so we went with it, and we actually didn’t get to release it until the following year after she had graduated due to legal reasons

C RIME Log Date/Time, Locations, and Nature of the Incident for the Crime Log are compiled by The Lion’s Roar from the Daily Crime and Fire Report provided by the University Police Department 4/23/2020 �� 2:18 A.M. - N�� O�� S�� - P�� M��, P�� M��, P�� M��, T�� V�� 4/26/2020 �� 10:58 A.M. – B�� - L�� F��

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Gabrielle Cox. COURTESY OF THE SOUTHEASTERN CHANNEL

Dylan Domangue.

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John Sartori. COURTESY OF THE SOUTHEASTERN CHANNEL

CHANNEL

on her stepfather’s case,” said Domangue. There were also other honorees including John Williams for best videographer, Kyle Orleans, Chris Rosato and Dana DiPiaza

for first place in Newscast, The Southeastern Channel Staff for first place in General Excellence (Television) and Kyle Orleans, Chris Rosato and Dana DiPiaza for College Best of Show-TV.

The ACPB awards are confirmation of the work being done at The Southeastern Channel, and the Channel hopes to reemulate their accomplishments for semesters to come.

OPINIONS | The Lionʼs Roar

MAY 5, 2020 | PAGE 3

Protests will only make the virus stronger People around the country are now protesting to open the economy back up. Numerous protesters believe that the government is taking away their freedoms Briyana Anderson and rights. In STAFF REPORTER reality, they are the ones putting everyone in danger with their selfishness and making state stayat-home orders expand. Many of those protesters were not practicing social distancing or wearing masks at all. Ironically, Audrey Whitlock, an admin of a Facebook page that calls for rallies to open North Carolina, tested positive for the coronavirus. Whitlock elaborated in a Facebook post that she had been “forced to quarantine” by the government, and it was reported that three people in her household also contracted COVID-19. Whitlock revealed that her selfquarantine ended on April 26 and she would be able to attend

“Reopen NC” two days later. I think that is incredibly selfish. During this time, everyone should be looking out for one another. No one should be worried about reopening the country when they are not practicing social distancing and not wearing proper protective gear while out in public. This could trigger another wave of the virus, cause cases to rise once again and lengthen the stay-at-home order. Everything would be back to square one and maybe even worse than before. Nurses across the country have had to counter-protest at rallies that are trying to reopen the nation. While the nurses are standing in their masks, silent and six feet apart, the protesters are standing close together with no masks on, yelling in the nurses’ faces. The nurses are extremely brave in doing this and are setting examples for everyone around the nation. The protesters are proving a point that America is not ready to fully open up again. Protesters began to turn their anger toward nurses and the

healthcare system, assuming that it is their fault that the country is not opening up sooner. This is completely backwards. The protesters should be thanking the doctors and nurses who have been constantly working every day to save lives. Many healthcare workers have not seen their families in weeks. These people are being incredibly mindless across the nation. A countless number of these anti-lockdown protests are in major hotspots of the virus. Cities of these protests include Los Angeles and New York City, which are major hotspots of the virus. Think about this before you go out and break the stay-at-home orders by protesting: Do you want your family to be safe? Just because you are bored at home and missing your job does not mean it is okay for you to go out and cry about it. Just because the curve may seem like it is flattening does not mean that it is over. There are still many sick people out there and

Lojuanda Weary/The Lion’s Roar stay-at-home orders are still in You are putting your life in effect. If you could just hold out danger when you go out and for a few more weeks, maybe you protest. This virus does not would get your wish. discriminate against anyone. If

The cultural impact of Star Wars For as long as I can remember, the Star Wars universe has captured my imagination. When I was five years old, my dad showed me the original Star Wars. From the instant I saw that movie, I was hooked. I have fond memories of playing video games such as “Lego Star Wars” and “Star Wars Dylan Meche Battlefront II” with my STAFF REPORTER brothers on the PlayStation 2. I would spend hours looking up obscure trivia and playing weird flash games on the internet. I owned several action figures, model ships and toy lightsabers. In middle school, I would anxiously await the end of the school week so I could partake in the ultimate Friday night activity: watching the next episode of “Star Wars: The Clone Wars” on Cartoon Network. “The Force Awakens” came out when I was in 10th grade, and my entire family saw it together, wearing Star Wars-themed Christmas shirts. The point is, I have seen these movies way too many times, and I am sure that I am not alone in that fact. Almost four decades after its debut, Star Wars remains one of the most

popular movie franchises in our culture. Everything about these movies, from their characters and stories to John Williams’s sweeping musical score and the iconic ships, is permanently ingrained into our collective memories. To say that the original Star Wars film was groundbreaking would be an understatement. It was a cultural phenomenon that inspired a wave of more fantastical stories at a time where darker and grittier movies were the norm. Without the original Star Wars, films like “Avengers: Endgame” would not exist. It is hard to imagine what it would have been like to be a part of an original 1977 screening of the film: Seeing those groundbreaking special effects, being enthralled by the story of a tiny rebel alliance going against an evil galactic empire. Amazingly, even all of these years later, the franchise is still impacting the entertainment world. An entire generation is now growing up in a world where all nine films in the newly dubbed “Skywalker Saga” are available on Disney+. Disney World just opened an entire Star Wars-themed land in Hollywood Studios last year and is planning on building a Star

Wars-themed hotel to accompany it. A popular new live-action show, “The Mandalorian,” came out last winter, and several more shows are in the works. My middle school self’s head would have exploded if you told him about all of the content we have now. As we get older and the world becomes a more complicated and scary place, it is important that we have entertainment as a form of escapism. For me, watching the Star Wars films reminds me of a simpler time when my imagination ran wild with stories from this universe, when the world made more sense and I had very little to worry about. The Star Wars films are not as deep and meaningful as some other films regarded as great American classics, but they were never supposed to be. They are simple, space adventure films where good and evil are clearly defined. I think that this fact is why these movies are still relevant all these years later. It seems that these stories from a galaxy far far away will not be going anywhere anytime soon.

Speak

you were at home or in the hospital sick, you would feel differently about it. Your jobs are replaceable. However, you are not.

Out

What is your favorite Star Wars movie? “Return of the Jedi.”

- @PHOENIX_GUNDAM

“Attack of the Clones.”

- @GARRISON.CALMER

“Revenge of the SITH. I can’t wait until May the 4th be with you. It’s my favorite holiday.” - @JORDONARMAND “A New Hope.”

-@MAGPIETOTHEMORN

“Rogue One.”

- @JOSHUABAYONA

Online learning will be negatively affected by the pandemic The experience many students have had with online learning this semester will influence their decision to take online classes in the future. I think that the experience of most students will ultimately drive them away from online Joshua Archote classes. STAFF REPORTER The future of online learning will be impacted by the mid-semester switch to remote learning this spring. Many students who had never experienced online classes had their first experience with the rapid transition to remote learning caused by the pandemic, rather than a carefully designed class

meant to be delivered online. Through no fault of their own, not all faculty members have had the proper training to deliver adequate online delivery, and the in-person classes they teach are not designed for remote delivery anyway. Although the temporary switch to remote delivery has been adequate for the time being, many students have experienced communication problems with professors, technological issues and the stress associated with the pandemic. Because of this experience, some students will turn away from willfully taking online classes in the future. This experience is also likely for K-12 schools, many of which had no prior experience with online delivery.

Of course, there will be some students who enjoyed their experience with online classes and choose to take more in the future, even when the pandemic ends. However, I think the overall trend will be away from online learning once there is a vaccine for the virus, as students will associate online classes with the hectic nature of the mid-semester switch. I came to college to not only get a degree but also to meet new people, get involved on campus and experience the full spectrum of what the university has to offer. That is not to say that these things cannot be experienced through online learning, but it is more difficult. My experience with online classes has not been great. I always feel like I am forgetting about a due date or an

assignment, communicating with some professors has been a challenge and I miss being on campus and interacting with people in a class. Overall, I feel less engaged. Many of my friends and classmates have voiced the same struggles. The isolation and boredom associated with taking online classes and being quarantined have reminded us how vital social interaction is. More specifically, they have reminded us how vital the role of student-teacher interaction is when it comes to student engagement and learning. It is unclear whether or not in-person classes will resume in the fall, given that a second wave of the virus could resurface around the same time the flu

season will start, according to top health experts. Some have proposed an online option for all classes since many people will still be reluctant to gather in large numbers until there is a readily-available vaccine. If the university does decide to continue remote learning in the fall, the university will have more time to prepare high-quality online classes, and many students’ experiences with online classes could be better than this spring. Every aspect of our lives will be changed by the coronavirus pandemic, including the future of education and the role that technology plays in it. If there is one thing the lockdown has shown us, it is that there is no substitute for true human interaction.

Sleep hygiene and tips for ﬁnals week: A message from the University Health Center By Alexia Fisher, GA at the such as technology screens and University Health Center fluorescent light bulbs can delay the release of sleep-inducing The Centers for Disease Control melatonin, increase alertness, and and Prevention recommends reset the body’s internal clock), seven hours of sleep every night; reduce sugar intake before bed, get however, on average we may get on a nightly schedule, and create five to six hours of sleep. Some a sleep-friendly environment. A factors that can affect the quality sleep-friendly environment varies of your sleep include what we eat from person to person. Some and drink, the medications we take, examples of a sleep-friendly and the environment in which we environment include a dark, cool sleep. If you find it hard to fall room, background noise, and asleep or stay asleep, remember maybe the use of an oil diffuser. In these helpful tips: no screen time addition, studies show that students 30 minutes before bed (blue light who use their beds for activities

other than sleeping and sex have a harder time falling asleep and staying asleep. If you use your bed for other activities, for instance, work, then your brain will associate your bed with the other activities instead of sleep. Sleep specialists see a pattern of college students getting 3.5 hours less than the average five to six hours we already see around exam time during the semester. Around exam time, it is important to practice effective sleep tips for better sleep to wake up refreshed and ready for your exams.

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.

Consider reducing energy drink and caffeine intake after lunch or in the late afternoon and try not to study (cram) everything the night before the exam. Studies suggest taking 45 minutes on each subject before going to bed and waking up early or before the exam to touch upon the subjects as a refresher. According to the Sleep Foundation, sleep deficiency can make you moody and irritable, sending your emotions on a roller-coaster ride. Sleep deficiency can also trigger short-term euphoria, impair your judgment and encourage impulsive

STAFF Editor-in-Chief - Jacob Summerville Assistant Editor - Prakriti Adhikari Distribution - Samuel Townsend Ofﬁce Assistant - Ashlyn Harris Graduate Assistant - Sean Haydel Administrative Assistant - Gemma Carter Coordinator - Lorraine Peppo Director - Dr. Lee E. Lind

or risky behavior. This is a hard and stressful time dealing with the new normal as a result of COVID-19 and exams can add additional stress. Besides the anxiety and stress that comes with college classes, work schedules, and student organizations, there are some methods you can use to help manage your stress and anxiety levels. One way to manage your stress and anxiety levels is by taking a break from school work and work assignments. Some quick and easy activities you can do during your break include going

for a walk/jog, sitting outside, and reading something for pleasure. It is recommended to spend some time outside to get fresh air and some sunlight. The CDC reports some of the benefits of fresh air and sunlight, which include increased levels of Vitamin D and better production of chemicals in the brain, such as serotonin and melatonin, which can boost your mood and help you sleep better. With finals coming up, we hope you keep this article in mind and find these quick and useful tips helpful in your future endeavors.

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TELEPHONE NUMBERS 985-549-3527 (newsroom) 985-549-3842 (fax) 985-549-3748 (advertising) 985-549-3731 (Student Publications)

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Page 4 | May 5, 2020

The Lion’s Roar | Arts & Entertainment

HRAC takes initiative with new online projects SYMIAH DORSEY Staff Reporter

With a pandemic that has caused several businesses to close their doors, many people have been deprived of their chance to enjoy the arts. Businesses might be closed, but that has not stopped the Hammond Regional Arts Center from sharing art and providing entertainment for the community. The HRAC is utilizing its Virtual Art Gallery to display the latest artwork, and online art classes are just a click away through its website. Tara Bennett, media coordinator for HRAC, shared that the transition has motivated staff members to get creative. “We’ve had to put our creative thinking caps on for sure in terms of how we will function as an organization, but it’s overall been a positive experience,” shared Bennett. “Each of us has been very self-motivated to help the arts center steer the course in this uncertain time.” Because the pandemic has impacted the livelihoods of artists everywhere, the arts center is dedicated to supporting artists via the Virtual Art Gallery. Bennett discussed the importance of spreading awareness and giving support to local artists. “Artists are a group of people who have been affected by this pandemic a lot, as members of our community have been unable to go to galleries or art shows,” mentioned Bennett. “So, we’re showcasing art from area artists on our social media to spread awareness of the importance of art and also to provide a channel for artists to continue selling their work.” Bennett also explained how the HRAC’s services are extending further than displaying artwork. “While we are still showcasing art, we realize

people will want to do more than look at art on a screen,” said Bennett. “One of those ways we wanted to continue being connected was to offer free online classes. The only cost is your time.” The online working experience has encouraged HRAC staff members to establish weekly projects for people to enjoy at home. Bennett shared how people can create art from common household items through the arts center. “HRAC has also instituted a #TutorialTuesday where we take an item that our followers may have in abundance at home - wine corks, buttons, CDs, et cetera - and we offer different online tutorials of projects that use said item,” shared Bennett. “It’s a fun way to occupy one’s time, get creative, and show off something new without spending a lot of money.” Along with #TutorialTuesday, the HRAC has also launched #ChalktheWalkTangi, an initiative that encourages locals to decorate sidewalks and driveways with chalk art. Participants have the chance to be featured on the Arts Center’s social media. Bennett explained why people should unwind with creative activities during this unprecedented time. “Creating art is an important emotional outlet, which allows us to let out our emotions in a healthy way,” said Bennett. “Right now, it is a very emotional time for us all. When you’re stuck at home with nothing to do, you may as well get creative with the things around you. I’ve found that adult coloring has relieved a lot of my own anxiety and has focused my mind. It’s a very meditative practice.” Bennett shared how supporting the arts center is an investment in the community. “Supporting the HRAC helps ensure that we create a progressive center for arts and culture in our region,” explained Bennett. “One of the ways people can help support us is by becoming

The Hammond Regional Arts Center has instituted several projects to keep people creative at home, including #ChalktheWalkTangi. Locals can submit photo chalk art to HRAC to be featured on their social media. Courtesy of HRAC a member of the HRAC. Students can join for as low as $15 and receive the same amount of benefits as an individual membership. These details can be found on our website, and it’s just a click away to join.” For Bennett, continuing to spread the mission

of the Hammond Regional Arts Center is important work. “We’ve always been connected with our community, and we wanted to continue enriching lives through the arts even if the gallery is currently closed.”

Photographer supports local businesses through Front Porch Project

The Hollywood family, Elsbet Smith Hollywood and her two sons, is captured by Kali Norton Photography for the #FrontPorchProject. Courtesy of Kali Norton/The Lion’s Roar GABRIELLE WOOD Staff Reporter

Photographer Kali Norton is not letting COVID-19 stop her from shedding light on the Hammond community. Norton has partnered with the Hammond Downtown Development District to create the #FrontPorchProject. Kali Norton Photography offered free front porch sessions in Hammond to support small local businesses in the area. With many businesses experiencing financial challenges, the Front Porch

Project encouraged donations to help those in Hammond. Donations ranged from purchasing a gift card to participating in curbside pickup. Each business was tagged in the photos that are shared on the @frontporchproject_hammond Instagram page. Norton explained her inspiration behind the Front Porch Project. “After several requests from clients and friends for me to start offering these during this unprecedented time, I decided to see if any photographers in Hammond had already started

a #FrontPorchProject for our community,” shared Norton. “When I realized no one had, I quickly began looking into the logistics to take on this project. I was a little nervous because a project like this encompasses many moving parts to run smoothly. My project manager, currently laid off due to the shutdown, so graciously offered to donate her time to help.” According to Norton, there have been many people that have had a hand in helping the success of the project. “Combined with the girls from #FrontPorchProjectNOLA

Coronavirus, air pollution and climate change JOSHUA ARCHOTE Staff Reporter

Due to sharp reductions in air and car travel and industrial activity, the coronavirus pandemic has resulted in a decline in the burning of fossil fuels and carbon emissions, leading to a significant decrease in air pollution around the globe. With 3.4 million infections and over 200,000 deaths, the pandemic’s effects on society and the economy will be long-lasting. However, the momentary lapse in the burning of fossil fuels due to the shutdowns has served as a forced scientific experiment, offering a glimpse into a healthier environment and cleaner world. This trend was most noticeable in China, the epicenter of the outbreak, where the large-scale shutdown of the country coincided with significant drops in nitrogen oxide emissions, a pollutant emitted by motor vehicles, power plants and industrial facilities.

Kent Neuerburg, professor of mathematics who has published research on climate change, commented on the drop in air pollution around the world. “If you look at major cities around the world, they’ve seen anywhere from a 9 percent to 60 percent decline in air pollutants,” said Neuerburg. “In some of the worst-hit places, you’ve seen the strongest decline. For example in Delhi, India, they had a 60 percent decrease in pollution compared to this time last year. Los Angeles’ air quality is the best in the world, as was reported in early April.” Although these reductions are good for the environment in the short-term, scientists have been warning for decades that failing to appropriately reduce certain pollutants, such as greenhouse gases, will cause critical levels of global warming, resulting in sealevel rise, more extreme weather, food and water shortages, spread of disease, mass migration and severe drought.

According to the International Energy Agency, annual carbon dioxide emissions are expected to fall by eight percent in 2020, the largest annual reduction on record. “As after previous crises, however, the rebound in emissions may be larger than the decline, unless the wave of investment to restart the economy is dedicated to cleaner and more resilient energy infrastructure,” stated the IEA. Jay Johnson, assistant dean for the college of business and associate professor of economics, explained that the rebound in emissions may be more unlikely than some expect. “I suspect that the bounce back will be slower than some believe because many people will probably be reluctant to travel for a while until they are more confident and perhaps get their budgets back in order,” said Johnson. Carbon Brief reported that even if there is an 8% decline this

see CLIMATE CHANGE, pg. 5

and #FrontPorchProjectBR helping me get the logistics sorted out, we began scheduling porches and I’m so glad that we did,” stated Norton. “In total, I’ve photographed over 150 porches, a large portion of the Downtown Hammond business owners and their families.” Hammond Downtown Development has also contributed to the Front Porch Project by keeping the community connected. “After announcing the project, Kati from the Hammond Downtown Development reached out to me to see how they

could team up and help further support our local businesses with this project,” explained Norton. “The Hammond DDD has been using the photos I take and putting together some really awesome write-ups about each local business, their families and their operations during this time.” Norton discussed her photography process throughout Hammond neighborhoods the past few weeks. “After receiving inquiries, I’d spend each morning mapping out routes and sending out texts to everyone that could expect me to photograph their porch for that evening,” shared Norton. “Each porch session lasts about two to five minutes, in which I maintain an eight feet distance from families.” Residents did not have to wait long for a picture. Families received one digital image of choice from an online gallery. “The turnaround time for porch photos is approximately seven to eight days,” said Norton. “I promise it’s worth the wait.” Norton’s plans are going a different route for the rest of quarantine, with the project coming to a close. “Over a three-week span of time, I photographed about 20-30 porches per day,” stated Norton. “After photographing

150 porches and any downtown business who requested photos, I have closed the project in order to devote the remainder of this time of quarantine to preparing my photography studio to reopen in Downtown Hammond, which is located at 112 S. Cypress Street.” Norton described the impact the photography project has had on the community. “This has been so fun and uplifting for our community during this time,” expressed Norton. “In addition to each household making a donation to a local business in exchange for a complimentary photo download, the outpouring of love our community has expressed towards the businesses they love so much has been just beautiful.” As a small business owner herself, Norton is happy to show support and spread awareness through her photography. “I know these times are extremely trying on many, but as a small business owner with a passion for helping small businesses thrive, this type of grassroots marketing effort benefits our entire community and has been something so wonderful to come out of this mess,” said Norton. For anyone interested in Kali Norton Photography, visit www. kalinorton.com/contact

Sports | The Lion’s Roar

May 5, 2020 | Page 5

Lions Add Mississippi Gulf Coast Transfer Mobley to Roster

Mobley is current Southeastern golfer Kris Kerr’s liefelong friend. The two met at a golf tournament at the age of six and have been close since. Mobley said the deciding factor in chosing Southeastern was when Coach Jake Narro offered him a scholarship to play for the university. Courtesey of Sports Infromation HAMMOND, La. – The Southeastern Louisiana men’s golf team signed Mississippi Gulf Goast Community College

transfer Cameron Mobley to the Mobley, out of Brandon, 2020-21 roster, SLU golf head Mississippi, had three top coach Jake Narro announced 10 finishes for MGC in 12 Tuesday. tournaments during his two

years with the Bulldogs. The Rankin High School grad shot a career-low 65 (-7) in the second round of the Wallace

State Fall Invitational on Sept. 10, 2018. The SLU signee was third on the team in birdies (37) and stroke average (76.07) as a sophomore. “We’re obviously thrilled to have him,” said Narro. “He was a major contributor at Mississippi Gulf Coast and we look forward to see him continue to grow as a player and help us grow as a program. He’s a true competitor with a well-rounded golf game.” Mobley joins the Lions and reunites with one of his best friends, SLU senior Kris Kerr. The two met when they were six-years old at a golf tournament. “I was down to the wire this year on finding a place to play,” said Mobley. “And then Coach Narro called me up and offered me a scholarship so I’m very thankful to him for the opportunity. I’ve known a couple of the guys on the team for a long time and I think we will have a very good season

next year. And of course Kris, he and have I known each other as long as I can remember, he was my first friend on the golf course and we have been friends ever since.” The Lions, under Narro in his sixth year as head coach, will be looking to improve on their fourth place finish in the 2019 Southland Conference Championship. Fans interested in becoming active supporters of golf program are encouraged to join the Green Jacket Club. Lion alums are encouraged to join the exclusive S Club, which is restricted to Southeastern athletic letter winners. All membership fees and donations to Green Jacket Club are available for the exclusive use of the Southeastern golf program. Membership information is available by contacting the Lion Athletics Association at laa@southeastern.edu or (985) 549-5091 or visiting www. LionUp.com.

Insani Represents SLU on LSWA All-Louisiana Tennis Teams HAMMOND, La. – Southeastern Louisiana sophomore Putri Insani was named to the 2019-20 Louisiana Sports Writers Association All-Louisiana Women’s Tennis Teams, which were released by the LSWA on Saturday. Insani was named to the team as an honorable mention selection. The Jakarta, Indonesia native was a standout performer for the Lions on the top singles and doubles courts. On the No. 1 singles court, Insani finished the spring with a 7-4 record. She and Ximena Yanez paired for an 8-3 mark on the feature doubles court during dual match play. The duo started off 2019-20 winning fall tournament titles at the Lady Demon Invitational and Iberostar College Cup. The All-Louisiana recognition was the latest honor for Insani. She was an All-Southland Conference performer following her freshman campaign. LSU’s Taylor Bridges was named Player of the Year, while Tiger coaches Julia and Michael Sell earned Coach of the Year honors. Xavier’s Lailaa Bashir was tabbed Freshman of the Year and Mariona Perez Noguera of UL Lafayette took home Newcomer of the Year accolades. The 2019-20 LSWA All-Louisiana Women’s Tennis Teams were selected by the state’s sports information directors. SID’s were not permitted to vote for their own institution’s nominees. Putri Insani is a native of Jakarta, Indonesia. Insani finishes her sophomore season on the 2019-2020 LSWA All-Louisiana Team. Courtesy of Sports Information 2019-20 LSWA All-Louisiana Women’s Tennis Teams First Team: Taylor Bridges, LSU; Angela Charles-Alfred, Xavier; Floriane Picaut, UL Lafayette; Mariella Minetti, Northwestern Patrycja Polanska, Northwestern State Eden Richardson, LSU; Ank Vullings, UNO; Mackenzie Clark, State Player of the Year: Taylor Bridges, LSU Tulane; Ana Jover, Louisiana Tech Honorable Mention: Putri Insani, Southeastern Louisiana; Ela Freshman of the Year: Lailaa Bashir, Xavier Second Team: Lailaa Bashir, Xavier; Safiya Carrington, LSU Iwaniuk, Northwestern State; Alexia Romero, Louisiana Tech; Newcomer of the Year: Mariona Perez Noguera, UL Lafayette Nina Geissler, LSU; Patricia Martinez Molina, LSU Alexandria; Adelaide Lavery, Tulane; Mariona Perez Noguera, UL Lafayette; Coach of the Year: Julia and Michael Sell, LSU.

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