Issuu

JUNE 14, 2016 VOLUME 88, ISSUE 01

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

A Student Publication

Campus Life Page 2

Opinions Page 3

Arts & Entertainment Page 4

Sports Page 6

News Page 8

LionsRoarNews.com

Miss Southeastern practices daily in preparation for Miss Louisiana BY WILLIAM SCHMIDT Assistant Editor

With a couple of weeks left until the Miss Louisiana 2016 Beauty Pageant, Miss Southeastern 2016 Alexis LaPlante diligently works each day in preparation to promote not only herself, but the university. “I have been working very hard to make sure that I represent

CSA members serve Greenwood elementary school

the university in a positive and advocating light,” said senior kinesiology major LaPlante. “I am doing something every day to prepare for Miss Louisiana whether it be working out, working on my talent or practicing my stage walk and interview skills. I never knew just how much work preparing for Miss Louisiana would be, but I am so grateful for the opportunity and I

want to make every day count.” On Feb. 3 LaPlante was officially crowned Miss Southeastern 2016 and according to LaPlante, it has been one of the best years of her life. “Miss Southeastern so far has been a crazy journey,” said LaPlante. “I cannot believe how many opportunities that have been opened for me and all of the new people and connections that I have met along the

way. I have learned so much about myself, my potential and how much of a difference I can really make. I truly feel that this title has molded me into the person I am today, even if I have been Miss Southeastern for only a few months.” Another way Miss Southeastern prepares for Miss Louisiana is through the Trunk Show. “The Trunk Show allows those

who cannot make the trip to Monroe to see everything that I will be wearing and presenting at Miss Louisiana,” said LaPlante. “I will also be performing my talent at the Trunk Show, so those who cannot make it to Miss Louisiana can see it in person. It’s also very helpful for me to practice in my actual gowns

see MISS SOUTHEASTERN pg. 8

Five Lions selected in MLB Draft University

Center finds new court

BY WILLIAM SCHMIDT

BY JONATHAN RHODES

Shortly after finals were over for the Spring semester, members of the Catholic Student Association packed their bags and headed to Greenwood, Mississippi with a mission to help those in need. The mission trip, a time to serve others, took place from May 15 to 21 and according to recent graduate Derrick Faucheux, the main goal was to assist in projects at St. Francis Elementary School. “Before the mission trip, I tried to have an open mind since I knew this mission trip would be very different than the ones I had been on in the past,” said senior family and consumer sciences major Jill LeBlanc. “I told myself to be open to new challenges or work even if I was not in love with the idea of doing it. I knew that no matter how big or small my task was that I was there to serve and intended to do that in any way that I could.” Some other CSA members were glad to have the chance to bond with their fellow organizational members while growing closer to God. “I’ve been on many mission trips, even before I started CSA,” said junior general studies major Irene Marino. “Anytime I hear about a mission trip, I make every effort to go. I have a passion for helping people and making an impact, and for that reason, I decided to go. It is also a great way to make memories with my CSA family.”

The University Center will soon have a new basketball court for the arena that the volleyball and basketball teams will use this upcoming season. The flood that occurred in March permanently damaged the previous court. “The court was under three and a half inches of water for twenty to thirty hours, so it was totally waterlogged,” said University Center Director Duane Shafer. “After a day or so, the boards began to buckle. There was really no way to salvage it.” After the stormy weather subsided, the search for a brand new basketball court began. “We advertised for bids and awarded the contract on May second for the new court,” said Shafer. The new court will have a new design and give a new look to the arena as a whole with a different mascot and logo. “We will have a different paint/ logo scheme on the court,” said Shafer. “Not one hundred percent firm yet, but the graphics/paint job we’re considering is different from the old court. It should really look great.” While waiting for the new court to be put in place, the basketball and volleyball teams have used other gyms on campus for practice and conditioning.

Assistant Editor

see MISSION pg. 8

Staff Reporter

The Lion’s Roar / Elizabeth Brown

Jameson Fisher was a fourth round draft pick out of five drafted from the Lions. Fisher was drafted by the Chicago White Sox. After Fisher’s injury from his junior year, he was a 2016 redshirt and received Southland Conference Player of the Year. Fisher was also the 2016 HERO Sports DI Baseball Fan Choice Award Winner.

BY MEGAN FERRANDO Editor in Chief

The Lions had their largest draft-class in school history with five baseball players selected by teams during the 2016 Major League Baseball Draft. Southeastern first baseman Jameson Fisher was picked up by the Chicago White Sox in their fourthround pick (116th overall) on Friday, Jun. 10. Pitchers Domenick Carlini, Kyle Cedotal, Pat Cashman and Mac Sceroler all had their names called by four teams on the last day of the draft. Carlini was selected by the Minnesota Twins, Cedotal

was selected by the Colorado Rockies, Cashman was selected by the Chicago White Sox and Sceroler was selected by the Philadelphia Phillies. “I was so excited when I saw everybody else’s name as well,” said Cedotal about hearing the news of his teammates being selected. “Dom and Pat are incredible, incredible pitchers. Mac had an amazing year. Jameson obviously deserves it with all the work he’s done. Those guys deserve every bit of it.” As of Jun. 13, Cashman has signed with the Chicago White Sox, the same team as fellow player Fisher.

“When I got drafted by the White Sox, a ton of things instantly ran through my head,” said Cashman. “It took me a few seconds to realize that I was back with Jameson and I got even more excited. Jameson is one of the best guys I’ve met in my life and it’s a blessing to be able to start this next journey with him. I don’t know how long we will actually play together, but to be in the same organization makes me extremely pleased with the way everything happened.” Now a player for the White Sox, Cashman reflects on his time at the

see COURT pg. 6

see DRAFT pg. 2

Hammond named cleanest city 10 consecutive years BY MORGAN LEDET Staff Reporter

Winning cleanest city for 10 years in a row is not all fun and games, it is about keeping up the beauty that is Hammond. For the 10th year in a row, Hammond has been named Cleanest City in Louisiana. This contest is sponsored by the Louisiana Garden Club Federation, Inc. and Hammond is sponsored by the Hammond Garden Club. Hammond is in District H and they are in the 15,000 to 44,999 population out of 10 other districts. “All entrants must be sponsored by a Federated Garden Club to enter,” said the Executive Director of Keep Hammond Beautiful Dori St. Cyr. “There is an application and fee to enter. District judging takes place in March and state judging in April.” For this contest, the LGCF sends three qualified judges and the district director to judge 10 categories. “The judges evaluate three key areas: litter-free, beautiful landscaping and evidence of the city’s commitment to these efforts year-round,” said St. Cyr. “For example, the judges examine the city approaches and look for weeds around poles, signs and ditches. They

look for cigarette butts, weeds in cracks of sidewalks and litter in street curbs and fences. They expect to see vacant lots mowed and litter free, and they want to see that a city is controlling problems associated with abandoned buildings and cars.” During the process of keeping Hammond beautiful, there are pictures taken to show the efforts of everyone keeping Hammond beautiful. “The Hammond Garden Club produces an incredible scrapbook that shows the efforts of volunteers, city staff, city code enforcement and the Keep Hammond Beautiful members throughout the year,” said St. Cyr. Protecting Hammond’s beauty comes with plenty of work and there are numerous people who take part in this process. “The City Parks & Grounds Department picks up litter in different districts every week, cuts grass in city rights-of-way and parks and adds colorful plants to the city landscaping,” said St. Cyr. “The City Street Department cleans drainage catch basins, tasks employees to pick up litter along the cleanest city route and side streets as the competition approaches and coordinates the street

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sweeping schedule and the garbage and recycling contracts throughout the year.” What some residents of Hammond may not know is that volunteers take part in cleanups throughout the city on a daily basis and also hold monthly cleanup days. These take place nine times out of the year at many different locations around the city and they also host educational events at schools around the city. Weeks before the contest, these volunteers focus on collecting the trash along the route with cleanup days so the city is top notch for when the judges arrive. As an employee of the City of Hammond Street Department, St. Cyr thinks this award is an honor. “It is a wonderful experience for all city employees who have been keeping Hammond beautiful the past 10 years,” said St. Cyr. “It is a great honor to the city.” According to St. Cyr, there are ways we can keep our city clean for another 10 years. “Remind everyone to not litter especially cigarette butts,” said St. Cyr. “I would also like seeing more litter citations written when someone is seen throwing trash down in city parks or while driving through town.”

The Lion’s Roar / Morgan Ledet

For the 10th year in a row, Hammond was named Cleanest City in District H and in Louisiana. Hammond was selected as cleanest city by three qualified judges and the district director.

Weather Tuesday H 87 L 74

Reminders Wednesday H 90 L 74

Volume 88, issue 02 of The Lion’s Roar newspaper will be released on Jul. 12, 2016.

CAMPUS LIFE

PAGE 2 JUNE 14, 2016

THE LION’S ROAR

Orientation provides new changes for incoming students

The Lion’s Roar / Alex Brainard

Orientations for new students are held at the start of each semester. This year’s fall orientation began on Jun. 8 and will continue through August. Recently, orientation has undergone new changes that could improve the quality of the experience for new students. Orientation leaders (left) provide a fun and engaging day of campus activities to prepare new students for their new life as a Lion. During orientation, students browse campus organizations and finalize schedules.

BY ALEX BRAINARD Staff Reporter

Summer is underway and the university is holding its annual orientations for new students. However, recent changes have determined how orientation will be run in the upcoming years. “We’re expanding the orientation program to add in some more student connection pieces,” said Assistant Director of Admissions Keslie Smith. “One of the things we added was an overnight accommodation. Instead of doing two programs per week, we’re doing Wednesday check in which starts at 1 p.m. and students can stay on campus for an entire night and stay a full day on Thursday.” According to Smith, each year admissions have evaluations from family members and students. The feedback is taken into consideration each year and orientations will possibly be changed in response. “I think one of the good components of having a student stay

overnight is they get a taste of what it’s like to be a Southeastern student,” said Smith. “We want them to have a positive experience here and possibly someone who is a commuter student may change their mind and decide to stay in housing over the semester. It helps them be prepared and excited for the fall.” According to Smith, orientation for the fall began on Jun. 8 and will continue through August. “The number of students that come in this year should remain flat,” said Smith. “We are expecting four hundred students each week at orientation.” Admissions counselors do much to help students enroll in the university. “We do a variety of things to recruit people in,” said Smith. “We have admissions counselors that go out to high schools and make connections with students and high school guidance counselors. They will do private visits and presentations or they’ll do a college fair. They

are on the road a lot in the Fall semester. They make phone calls, emails, anything it takes to get students here. We reach out to as many students as we can to tell them what’s great about Southeastern.” At the orientations, some of the new incoming students had a chance to speak out on why they chose to attend the university. “It’s close to home and I like Hammond,” said orientation attendee and freshman physics major Zachary Bass. “It’s really nice here.” According to Smith, orientation is important because it is the transition that takes students from high school and leads them into college. “It’s the connections you make here that will impact your first semester at the university,” said Smith. “We want to make sure you’re prepared and excited at the university. We want to help students feel confident and reassure that you made the right decision to choose Southeastern.”

Counseling student receives grant to further study youth and minorities BY LARSHELL GREEN Staff Reporter

A counseling student at the university recently received a prestigious award in her field alongside 39 other recipients. Graduate student Victoria Grant was selected by the National Board for Certified Counselors Foundation and its affiliates for the group’s Minority Fellowship ProgramYouth. Grant will receive training in the field, an $8,000 grant and attend symposiums and workshops concentrating on areas such as minorities and transition age youth, ages 16-25. According to Grant, there are certain ways to allocate the $8,000 grant. Grant revealed that there is currently no place in the Northshore area with a visitation center. She also feels that the visitation rooms for those incarcerated are “not welcoming enough.” Grant plans to use the money to build a facility that offers job training, visitation rooms, workshops, parenting classes and the opportunity to obtain identification like birth certificates. “For those incarcerated and

ready to reenter society, they can get necessary training such as with computers,” said Grant. Grant received an undergraduate degree in family and consumer sciences and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in counselor education. After graduating from Bogalusa High School, Grant attended Xavier University of Louisiana as a prepharmacy major. According to Grant, she changed her mind after shadowing a pharmacist. During her time as an undergraduate, Grant became an orientation leader, was Vice President for the Student Association for family and consumer sciences, a member of the National Society for Leadership and Success, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, Black Student Union and a Division for Student Affairs Ambassador. After graduating, Grant did internships as a truancy officer for Amite’s court system and the Regina Coeli Child Development Center, realizing the need for change. “I didn’t want to be confined to the classroom and some children had behavior problems,” said Grant. “It

made me wonder what I could do to help.” As a military child, Grant became aware of her own emotional conflicts that inspired her career. “The constant moving has an effect on your self-esteem,” said Grant. “The constant uprooting affects personal relationships.” In high school, Grant realized the lack of knowledge and help for students seeking a post-secondary degree. Grant believes that students should be given options to reach their goals. “People change,” said Grant. “Some are more hands on and prevail through work experience.” According to Grant, she was in disbelief when she received the news and believes that the grant will give her a leg up in her profession. “I was selected,” said Grant. “Little me was chosen and to hear people congratulate me, to go to the symposium where we receive our awards, to interact with people in this profession who have the same goals, to communicate and pick their brains to see what topics are being discussed in other places, it’s good to see the transitions and different dimensions.”

The Lion’s Roar / Larshell Green

Graduate student in counseling at the university Victoria D. Grant basks in her newfound glory of being the recipient of an $8,000 grant. The grant will give Grant the opportunity to have additional training in her field and to attend workshops and symposiums.

Subway and Popeyes under renovations and scheduled to reopen in the Fall BY KARSON SHARP Staff Reporter

Just over sixty days into their construction, two new restaurants are returning to campus. The Popeyes will be located in the War Memorial Student Union and the Subway will be near Tinsley Hall. According to Facility Planning Director Kenneth Howe, the purpose of the new

restaurants is to replace previously existing Union restaurants that were damaged by fire before Christmas of 2014. Howe said the construction of the new restaurants has gone smoothly since it began in April. “It took us a long time to get approval to build,” said Howe. “The main thing holding us up was getting the insurance companies to approve our plan for construction which is why we weren’t able to get started until April.

DRAFT continued from pg. 1 university and in the city. “I loved my time in Hammond and wouldn’t change a thing about my experience there,” said Cashman “To me, Hammond is a place that brought me two of the best years of my life and is a place where my dreams came true. The people at Southeastern pushed me to new levels and reach levels, both as a player and person. I’m forever thankful for the people that I met and I’m glad to have another place to call home.” Like many others who were drafted, the players left home only days after receiving the phone call that they were selected. Sophomore Sceroler, however, chose to return to Southeastern for another year as a Lion. “It’s an honor to get drafted,” said Sceroler. “It’s every baseball player’s dream, but I’m a sophomore so I’m going to come back to Southeastern for my junior year. I’m spending the summer in the Cape Cod league and I’m going to learn a lot and get stronger and bring it all back to school next year. Hopefully I’ll get drafted in a better spot next June.” Similarly, after high school Fisher also chose to attend Southeastern instead of signing a professional contract when he was selected by the Chicago Cubs in the 24th round back in 2012. After playing three seasons as a Lion, Fisher received another phone call offering the chance to further pursue his dreams. “It was surreal moment,” said Fisher. “All the glory to God. I was at home with my family and got the call from my advisor saying the White Sox wanted to take me with their next pick. I played it off as if it was like the rest of the calls I had gotten all day when I

We have approval now and there have been no difficulties since construction actually began.” According to Howe the original Subway was located in the Student Union, but the new location will be on South Campus. This is so it can be larger than its predecessor and new dining options can be made available in the South Campus area. Currently, the closest option students have for food on South Campus is Quiznos near the old cafeteria. It is located

went back inside to my family. I sat down and all of a sudden my name was called and everyone went crazy. Once it hit me it was emotional. I’ve had my ups and downs on this journey and there were times that I didn’t think I would get this opportunity. So for it to be here now is surreal and incredible. I wouldn’t be here without family, friends, teammates and coaches, but most importantly God.” Despite receiving an arm injury his junior year, Fisher worked hard to come back stronger than his sophomore year. When he played again this past 2016 season as a redshirt junior and academic senior, Fisher received much recognition including receiving the Southland Conference Player of the Year, leading the nation in onbase percentage (.558) and more. “I was extremely proud and excited for him,” said baseball head coach Matt Riser. “He’s come a long way from his injury and worked extremely hard to get back. It was great to see him back to full strength and reap the benefits of all the hard work put in.” According to Riser, Fisher maintains strong skills in hitting and recognizing pitches. “He’s a big time hitter and probably the best hitter to come through this program in a long time,” said Riser. “He could take over a game by himself offensively. Jameson’s ability to recognize pitches is incredibly advanced for a college hitter. He’s very mature in his approach and has shown he’s ready for his professional career. The White Sox got an elite college hitter that will impact their organization immediately.” Riser praised not only Fisher’s skills as an athlete, but character as a man. “The person Jameson is speaks greater volume then the player,” said Riser. “He’s strong willed and has a ton of conviction in his faith. There’s a quality about his leadership that can’t be taught.

past Friendship Circle. The new Popeyes will be located in the Student Union next to the bookstore. Howe also revealed the schedule for the construction’s completion. “Despite the slow start we’re really working very quickly now,” said Howe. “If there are no more unforeseen delays I expect that both restaurants will be ready to open before the coming Fall semester.”

People naturally follow Jameson whether he’s on the field or off. It’s a God given talent that’s in his DNA.” Although the players were drafted, they will not begin with the major league team but must work their way up through different levels of the minor league system through their team. According to Cedotal, he will play short season in Idaho. Fisher will begin his journey in Arizona and will then settle in a number of possible places including Arizona, Montana or North Carolina and hopes to stay with a host family. “There’s definitely a few nerves but I feel like once I get settled in and find my routine, I’ll be just fine,” said Fisher. “I’m excited to meet new people, see the country and play baseball for a living. It’s the same game, just a new atmosphere and level.” As the players move on with their dreams and careers, they will also hold onto their time as a Lion and use what they have learned. “I’m always going to hold onto our philosophy at Southeastern,” said Cedotal. “Our philosophy was to always maximize our potential. I feel like I did everything I possibly could here at Southeastern. And I’ve learned everything I could. Now I just have to do the same thing at the next level and learn everything I can be at the next level.” Southeastern was the home of several other draft picks and major league players since 1985, including current major leaguer Wade Miley. Fisher was the highest overall draft pick since Miley was drafted by the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2008 and is the fourthhighest draft pick in program history. With this group, there have now been ten Lions drafted in the Matt Riser era. “I will never be a stranger to Lion Nation,” said Fisher. “It’s a special place with special people and I’ll always know I have a home fifty miles down the road from Zachary.”

OPINIONS

THE LION’S ROAR

JUNE 14, 2016 PAGE 3

Think about people before animals America, end the violence William Schmidt Assistant Editor

Morgan Ledet Staff Reporter If you live in Louisiana and I say Mike the Tiger, you are going to know exactly who I am talking about. Mike VI is the beloved mascot of LSU. For a person like me who loves tigers, Mike is a beautiful animal. Recently, Mike was diagnosed with cancer. Just like humans, animals can get cancer too. Normally, when animals are sick, they go to veterinary hospitals. Guess what? Mike did not. Mike was sent to Mary Bird Perkins – Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Center to undergo his treatment. Last time I checked, Mike was a tiger and Mary Bird Perkins is a hospital for people. Some people can’t afford treatment for their illnesses, but Mike is getting top of the line treatment at a people’s hospital. This makes me believe that society is starting to care more about animals than people. Don’t get me wrong, I think Mike should be getting treatment, but

that is what veterinary hospitals are for. This brings me to the newest topic in the news that is causing this giant uproar in our society, the killing of 17-year-old gorilla, Harambe. I am talking about the child that fell into the gorilla enclosure at a Cincinnati Zoo. First, let us understand that this is a tragic event. You think society would be worried about the poor little boy who fell, but no, they are more concerned about the gorilla. On one hand, I agree that the killing of a gorilla is not okay, but there was a child’s life on the line. My first thought about this was: “Wow, this woman let her kid fall into an enclosure, what in the world was she doing while he was falling?” Then, my second thought was kids are fast. I was talking with my mother about this topic and she always says how fast my sister was when she was that age. She could turn around and my sister would be nowhere in sight. This could have easily happened to this woman. She could have turned her head for two seconds, looked back and he would have already fallen in.

Sometimes things happen so fast and that is out of our control. Another thought that came to my mind was: “What kind of enclosure do they have for the gorillas where that boy fell in?” In the Audubon Zoo in New Orleans, the gorilla enclosure has three thick wooden logs as a gate, about a five-foot ledge that is the same height as the walkway on the outside of the gate and then a giant moat. So, maybe it is the zoo’s fault that he fell in and they need to do a better check of their gates on enclosures. Anyway, what is important is that the little boy came out with minor injuries, but to the rest of society, it is about the gorilla. What is it about society and their new obsession with killing animals? Let’s think about this for a second. Ask yourself this question: Do you eat hamburgers? If your answer was yes, well news flash, that meat came from the killing of a cow. That’s an animal, by the way. The same thing about deer meat, bacon and literally any other meat you can think of. They come from dead animals, but dang, a gorilla gets killed to save the life of a child, and the whole

world is in a frenzy. Another killing of an animal that happened a year ago was a lion. A dentist killed a lion, and the whole world freaked out. Why does society keep freaking out over the killings of animals while there are 125,000 babies who die everyday from abortions that no one cares about? People never seem to care about abortions. You are killing a baby no matter how many months you have carried the baby. This baby is a person and abortions are legal, but there are so many people who are not against abortion. They think it is okay to kill a baby, but when an animal dies, the whole world goes crazy. The same people who are probably for abortion are probably the people complaining about killing animals. Society needs to get its priorities together. This is why our world is falling apart, because we care more about animals than people sometimes. I understand that animals are an important part of our world. I love animals, and I love going to the zoo, but I think the world needs to understand that sometimes people need to be better taken care of than animals.

SPEAK OUT

What summer activity should college students participate in and why? Go swimming, play video games, have fun with friends. Don’t waste your time. School will be starting up soon.

Students should work more so they can save up more money, and they’ll be less stressed with school.

William Reeves Junior, Business Administration

Emilee Flores Senior, Elementary Education

I highly recommend going to the beach during the summer.

I would say students should go to the beach or take a family vacation. It’s nice to relax and be together.

Jessica Kumfer Freshman, Nursing

Shea Lafountain Graduate Student In Counseling

Read a classic to gain a better knowledge of the world. A hard read will increase your vocabulary.

Take a trip to the beach. You can venture out and see something new and take it easy with your best friends.

Mahitha Koduri Sophomore, Biology

Jessica Monsour Sophomore, Psychology

Whatever it is to relieve the stress from school so they can be ready for when it’s time to come back.

Exercising because I think it’s good to get out during the summer.

Tony Licciardi Freshman, Business Administration

Diamond Evans Sophomore, Kinesiology

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

see SHOOTING pg. 8

Summer fun while staying productive Tiffany Nesbit Staff Reporter Finally, it is beloved summer time and all of us college students are beyond ready for a little break. It is time to enjoy the beautiful weather and relive our childhood memories of playing outdoors and enjoying activities such as cooling off at the beach, jumping in the pool or taking long strolls down the street with our best friends. Although summer time is known for being a couple of months of freedom, many are questioning if it should also be a time for productivity, not just a long time of relaxation. Some overachievers feel the need to constantly work and go to school 24/7 during the summer. Others who do not work or go to school are “wasting their time.” It is not good to do either. It is important to have a good balance of productivity and relaxation during the summer months. Summer is an opportunity to find productivity in personal hobbies outside of school. As an artist, I find it very important to have time for myself to develop new creative ideas away from school. Summer is a great time for me to re-energize and bring my creative ideas to life without my hectic school schedule. It is very important to take time to enjoy the outdoors and enjoy what I hardly get to spend time doing during the school year. Summer is a chance to have lunch outside or go on nature walks, which both inspire my art. As a student, it is a good idea to keep a healthy balance of relaxation and productivity of your hobbies during the summer. This is because when the fall semester rolls around, you have had a chance to regain your energy and you are ready to study and work. Since you kept a sense of productivity and kept your mind active, you won’t go into a brain shock of school work. It is very important to exercise your brain even during the summertime. Even if you do not take summer school, or work a summer job, you should still use critical thinking during your vacation, but in a fun way. Work on a fun hobby. Don’t just relax on this beautiful summer vacation, but work on your own creative skills while enjoying those long walks on the beach. Relax and be productive.

THE LION ’S ROAR - STAFF

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

For two days in a row, the people of Florida woke up to news of shootings taking place. The first was of singer Christina Grimmie from “The Voice” and the second was the tragic event of those shot at the Pulse night club in Orlando, Florida. What makes the night club shooting worse was not only did it take place a few days after our Governor John Bel Edwards signed an executive order that prohibits discrimination against people based on their sexual orientation or gender identity, but it took place at the night club Pulse, known for catering to the LGBTQ+ community. Even worse, I woke up in time to see President Barack Obama’s address to the nation on the “act of terror.” Before Obama’s speech, one of his press secretaries mentioned how it was the 15th time that he spoke in front of the American people after a tragic shooting. I find this horrible. Yes, Obama has been president for eight years now which means that he averages speaking about shootings on an average of 1.9 times, and yes, sadly shootings happen every day. But, something I heard raised a question that made me truly think about the state of our nation, “Is this the kind of country that we want to live in?” In my lifetime, 9/11 has happened and multiple shootings have taken place. I still remember the day that the massacre happened at Columbine High School, then the recent shooting in Aurora at the 2012 midnight screening of “The Dark Knight Rises.” The list could go on and on. What saddens me in today’s society is that this shooting immediately became a social media frenzy. Yes, I know of the tragic event that took place at Wounded Knee, but that does not make this event less tragic. It was horrid what took place at Wounded Knee, and the fact that Americans turned a blind eye is even worse. But, I was not alive in 1890 and I can’t change the past. I know that Wounded Knee was a worse modern day massacre than the 49 that were killed at the Pulse and 53 who were injured. But, I am alive today, and I can physically see the emotional impact that this event is having on our nation, especially those who don’t follow the heterosexual lifestyle that social constraints have made “the norm.” Yet, our nation doesn’t seem to be letting go of this hate. I’ve seen the “article” of the tweets that showed how some Americans were happy that those who consider themselves gay were killed. I’ve read how some backed it up by religion, politics or personal belief and this saddens me even more. We live in America, the land of the free, and yet sometimes I think we live in the land of fear. I know that we have it a lot better than other nations, trust me, there are some nations that I would not visit. I visited Kiev, Ukraine before the political unrest and I would love, love to go back. However, I would not currently go back due to the state of the nation of the Ukraine. And yet, is America going to be a nation that people will want to travel to in the future? In the tragic event that took place in Orlando, the people came together. The President of the United States of America addressed the nation and the lines of those willing to donate blood were out the door.

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

Editor in Chief Megan Ferrando Assistant Editor William Schmidt Campus Life Editor Megan McCormick

Distribution Jake Treadway Advertising Assistant Nicholas Walsh

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

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

THE LION’S ROAR

Vonnies recognize stars of APO and theatre BY WILLIAM SCHMIDT Assistant Editor

The seats of the Vonnie Borden Theatre were filled by those dressed in formal wear in anticipation for a night that celebrated the stars. On Friday, May 13 at 7:30 p.m. Alpha Psi Omega presented The 2016 Vonnies. The Vonnies take place each year and is a time to recognize APO members who went above and beyond while also giving awards for the theatre season. The evening was split into two parts with senior recognition in the middle. The first part of the evening was the recognition of APO awards and after the senior recognition, the evening switched into the show awards. “We tried to make it distinguishable with just the APO awards and then just the show awards,” said senior communication sciences and disorders major Kelsey Hymel. “It’s an APO event which is why we have things like best Big and Little and things like that. I think people that aren’t APO like to see our camaraderie.” To help move the evening along, Hymel and senior general studies major with a concentration in theatre design Taylor Sinclair hosted the event and provided entertainment from one award to the next. “It was Taylor and I’s idea to host it as Sandy and Andy to begin with,” said Hymel. “Then I told my fellow officers and they told me that we don’t have a problem with that. So really we thought it would be funny to sit on stage the entire time like the old men from ‘The Muppets’ and kind of give side comments and keep things going because sometimes there is dead air so we are just comedic relief.” Sinclair agreed with Hymel on providing proper entertainment to keep the show moving along. Some attendees of The Vonnies were pleased that their passion had a night of recognition. “It was all on a whim,” said Sinclair. “The two of us have great improv whit. It was an honor to move along the show and help others see what we were all about in theatre. We do it every single year. Being able to do the awards simultaneously also feels really good. I am a huge part of APO. They have been a huge part of my life since I got here to school and I wouldn’t have it any other way.” One of the APO awards for the evening was Best-Best Friends. This award was given to the two APO members that were seen as the closest of friends to their fellow organizational members. “I won Best-Best Friends with Shelly Sneed,” said general studies major with a concentration in theatre junior Shelby Elliott-Layman. “I mean I feel great. I was very surprised when we got nominated because I don’t think Shelly and I are showy with our friendship. We are definitely really close. We have the same birthday. We almost have the same name. I only met her about seven months ago but it feels

like we’ve known each other our entire life.” Some of the other APO awards given out were Most Active Veteran, APO Anchor, Most Prestigious and Loudest Member to name a few. After the APO organizational Vonnies were given out, senior recognition was observed and then the show awards began. Shows from the last theatre season were nominated for various awards and included “No Exit,” “Encore, Encore,” “High & Mighty,” “Oedipus” and “The Adventures of Pinocchio Once Upon A Pine.” “It was incredibly exciting,” said Louisiana State University math teacher and actor Tyler Meyer. “Every show got their part of winning something so you know it is a good program.” The two highest show honors for individuals people best female and male actor. Sinclair took home the Best Male Actor and senior general studies major with a concentration in theatre Angela Griffitt took home Best Female Actor. Both actors were ecstatic after receiving their awards. “It’s insane,” said Sinclair. “I never thought in my life I would be an actor. The fact that I am standing here, yeah it is a departmental award, but it is probably the greatest thing I’ve ever won in my life. This is something I do want to pursue. The fact that this could be one of the first steps of many things in my life is absolutely wonderful.” Griffitt was as enthusiastic as Sinclair for her award. “Tonight was very nerve-wracking and very anxious,” said Griffitt. “I knew I was up for two awards. One that completely slipped my mind and then when it happened I was like ‘Oh, snap.’ I am so grateful for everyone that voted and it was a great night. It couldn’t have gone better. I am holding two Vonnies in my hand right now and it feels amazing. I am so grateful.” Other awards included Best Set Design, Best Crew, Best Assistant Director and Best Stage Manager to name a few. Some attendees for the evening expressed that their favorite part of the evening was not when they won an award, but rather seeing those that they worked on productions with win awards. “Liz winning Best Stage Manager was my favorite part because having my first two shows ever were with Liz as a stage-manager and I’m kind of a nervous wreck,” said ElliottLayman. “She was kind of the captain of the ship for me. She went above and beyond for me, for what is required for a stage manager. I am just happy that she got recognized and also seeing one of my very first cast members, Angie, win best actress was so surreal. I was so happy for her.” Griffitt’s favorite memory from The 2016 Vonnies was seeing her fellow actors’ reaction during her acceptance speech for Best Female Actor. “My most fond memory was looking at my two castmates,” said Griffitt.

“Well my fellow lead cast members, Shelby and Taylor. Making eye contact with them during my speech, it really hit me because working with them has been like nothing else and I always wanted to work with them. They truly changed me for the better and I love them both. That moment of making eye contact with them was a very special moment.” “Once Upon a Pine” won multiple Vonnies and Meyers led the crew in a chant at the 2016 Vonnies when they won Best Ensemble which had originally brought the cast together before production. “It gives us a chance to come together and get energetic,” said Meyers. “All those names that were called through it were just actor names we would do before a show. That was just something that united us as a cast.” For some, it was the effort of everyone involved in a show that made it truly amazing. “I was part of the ensemble, narrator and I was also the choreographers of the show ‘Once Upon A Pine,’” said Meyers. “We were just a group of actors who together on stage. The bonding kept us together. If I could say anything about that show, the cast just bonded together so well and then we put it on the stage. It was not just the ensemble. All nine of us on stage along with the stage manager, along with our directors, along with everyone involved, costume and makeup, everyone pulled one thousand percent on that show and it was a lot of fun. And while we were goofing off, we knew that we were creating something beautiful.” APO does not meet the summer but will be meeting back up in the Fall. “I feel like we are an all-inclusive

The Lion’s Roar / William Schmidt

On Friday, May 13 Alpha Psi Omega hosted The Vonnies 2016, a time to recognize productions from the theatre season and outstanding members of APO. Olivia Waguespack (top left) received an award from presenter Shelly Sneed. Another enthusiastic presenter for the evening was Crystal Schayot (top right). Cast members of “The Adventures of Pinocchio Once Upon a Pine” were led in a chant by Tyler Meyer as they received their first award of the evening (above). group of people,” said Hymel. “We are accepting wherever you are in theatre; whether you are a theatre goer, whether you are used to crew or whether you just want to do acting. I never did sound design till I came to Southeastern and now it is one of the most important parts of my life. You’ll find out things about yourself through theatre, and I think every art and APO is a great way to that world, especially through Southeastern.” Some other members found a second home through APO and wished they had become an APO member their first semester of college. “I wish I had joined it a lot sooner because there were a few semesters where I went to an interest meeting but I didn’t join,” said Elliott-Layman. “There were other things going on so I didn’t quite commit to it. But it

has only expanded, like the group of people that I know. I know so many people that I wouldn’t through APO. I’m just happy with the people I have met and the experiences I have had and I feel like I truly found a home.” For some, summer is a time to prepare for auditions that take place in the Fall semester. “I think, having never been in a show before, I was in ‘No Exit’ in the Fall and I would recommend absolutely auditioning for a show at Southeastern,” said Elliott-Layman. “You have all summer to prepare a monologue, so go for it next semester. Definitely join APO. It is a little scary at first, you think you don’t have that many hours to do service or whatever, but just go for it.”

see THEATRE pg. 6

Graduate student travels for international meeting of flutists BY MORGAN LEDET Staff Reporter

Photo Courtesy of Andrei Smirnoff

Andrés Chávez shows his love of music by creating and organizing the international meeting of flutists, “El Flautín del Bosque,” which takes place in his home country of Colombia.

Graduate student Andrés Chávez takes his love of music to a new level by organizing the second international meeting of flutists. “El Flautín del Bosque,” which is part of the “A la sombra del Tatamá” festival, is a four day event where flutists can take part in masters classes with national and internationally renowned flute masters. “There are conferences, concerts and rehearsals with the participants; students have the chance to take part of the flute orchestras of the festival,” said Chávez. This meeting takes place Jul. 7 to 10 in SantuarioRisaralda, Colombia and is sponsored by the ONG “Corpcam” and the agreement national program by the Colombian ministry of Culture. Some students are already planning to attend next year’s festival. “One of its graduate program students is doing an international festival in his home country,” says Chávez. “We have planned together with some teachers of Southeastern to go to Colombia in 2017 for the third edition.” With this program, Chávez shares what he hopes comes from this festival. “My goal is to decentralize the culture in my country, specifically in my region,” said Chávez. “I consider it important to give opportunities to other students to be in touch with other cultures and to learn more about their music throughout the flute and the traditional instruments in the coffee region where the international meeting of flutists “El Flautín del Bosque” is located.”

According to Chávez, the festival is free and he thinks more people should take part in it. “It is a great opportunity to interchange knowledge, to learn about our traditional and academic music, but also about these instruments (flute, guitar tiple and bandola),” said Chávez. “This project is a space for the construction of peace. Music opens doors that words cannot and projects like this allow people to be in touch with other experiences. These spaces are important for the communities to recognize their roots, their cultural identity and to generate dialogues between cultures.” Chávez also wants people to see that this is more than just a festival. “This international meeting of flutists is a great opportunity to highlight the Colombian talent and to show that Colombia is not only ‘drugs and war,’” said Chávez. “We also have many wonderful things to show to the world and for these wonderful things we want to be remembered.” Chávez shared that this festival has done a lot for what he loves. “This project means a lot to me just because I am doing what I love to do in life, music and sharing spaces where we can be in contact with the world,” said Chávez. “Thanks to the chances I have had to participate in festivals, now I am here in Southeastern Louisiana University earning a masters in music performance.” Chávez also loves that music is his dream and wants to continue in this path. “Music is my life, it is my space to dream and to bring dreams into reality such as this project,” said Chávez. “Music is the bridge to share and to establish dialogues or the bridge to enjoy life.”

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

THE LION’S ROAR

JUNE 14, 2016 PAGE 5

Rita West pursues ministry, releases new single Alumna co-writes new single, ‘Heart of Mercy,’ and follows passion as worship leader BY MEGAN FERRANDO

like, ‘I have this idea. I think we should write a song about the heart of mercy and I don’t really know what that means but it won’t come out of my mind,’” said West. “Before we had even met to write this song, he texted me and said, ‘Keep your calendar open because I just booked the studio and we’re going to record this song.’ I was like, ‘You know we haven’t written it yet, right?’ He was like, ‘Yeah it will be okay, it will be fine, I know that we’ll do it.’ It was great. We got together once at a friend’s house and had the majority of the lyrics written. On the retreat that kind of inspired it, we just stayed up late one night and finished writing it, finished the melody and finished the lyrics. So in two songwriting sessions, it was finished.” Before writing “Heart of Mercy,”

Editor in Chief

Despite not learning to play the guitar until after high school, alumna Rita West has pursued her passion of leading worship, the combination of music and faith. West, who graduated in communication in 2014, helped lead Lion Nation Christian Invasion during the spring 2016 semester and also was featured on a recently released single, “Heart of Mercy,” co-written with artist John Finch. The two artists met at the university. West and Finch traveled to Nashville to record the single. The first song West has recorded in a studio “Heart of Mercy” was also made into a music video, which has gained over 1,000 views on YouTube and over 40,000 views on Facebook. “The biggest thing is that the Lord invites us in,” said West as she explained the meaning behind the song. “So often in our culture right now there can be this feeling that Christians, the church and even that God is not merciful and it’s just this condemnation thing. But in reality, God is a father who welcomes us in no matter what. He calls us into his heart of mercy. The Lord speaks to us and he says, ‘I want you to come and come into my heart of mercy and experience the new life that I have for you, and the restoration and the redemption that I have for you.’” “Heart of Mercy” originated as West and Finch were planning a retreat in January with the theme, “Into the Heart of Mercy.” “He texted me one day and was

“A lot of the songs that I’ve written have just come out of my own prayer” the two started the song-writing session in prayer. West writes many of her original songs this way. “A lot of the songs that I’ve written have just come out of my own prayer, my own messed up stuff that’s happening in my life,” said West. “It’s just gathering lyrics from my

The Lion’s Roar / Megan Ferrando

Alumna Rita West followed her passion of learning the guitar and now leads worship. At the end of her senior year at Southeastern, she played at the Lion Nation Christian Invasion and has recently released her single “Heart of Mercy,” co-written with artist John Finch. own heart when the Lord is speaking and from scripture that He’s spoken through.” West has also found inspiration

from artists who express honesty in their lyrics. “That kind of vulnerability in worship leaders has had the biggest

influence on me to be like I don’t want to write a generic song,” said West. “I want this to be a reflection of myself and my encounters with the Lord. That’s what I want it to be because I connect so much when other people are vulnerable in worship.” Although West grew up in a large family of 11 with many who liked to sing, she did not seriously pick up music until her time working with NET Ministries after she graduated high school. West helped put on retreats around the country during her two years with the ministry. She also learned to play guitar and began leading worship for the first time. “I just fell in love with playing guitar and leading worship,” said West. “It came pretty naturally. I was leading worship every day which is really awesome because it helped boost my confidence a little bit to be able to do it in a safe place, and mess up, and sing in the wrong key and everybody just not caring. It was a good environment doing it in.” West is hoping to record again in the Fall and pursue music for the long term. Her purpose in music however is because of her faith. “Being a full time musician, getting to that point is really difficult but it’s not impossible,” said West. “It can happen. The reason I’m doing what I’m doing with music is for the Lord. So if anything other than His glory is my goal, then I’m going to fall flat on my face anyway.” Her single, “Heart of Mercy,” can be found on YouTube and iTunes. West can be contacted at ritawestmusic@ gmail.com.

Local Chef a tradition in Culinary Art Series BY LARSHELL GREEN Staff Reporter

At the age of 13, Chef Tommy Masaracchia began gaining interest in the restaurant business while in Hammond. That interest established the growth of a culinary artist and successful business owner. According to Masaracchia, that interest has consumed him for 40 years. Today, Masaracchia is the owner of local restaurant Tope lá and still finds the time to participate in local fundraising

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) A change of season reinvigorates the Lamb, helping to overcome the effects of a recent slower-paced period. This is a good time to restate your feelings for that certain someone. TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) You might not like using your authority to correct a workplace situation, but that’s what being placed in charge is all about. Besides, you have people ready to lend support if need be. GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Your creativity continues to run high and helps guide you to make some fine choices in the work you’re doing. Keep the weekend free for those special people in your life. CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Don’t be surprised if you experience a sudden spurt of energy strong enough to pull you out of that recent period of indecision and put you back in charge of your own goals. LEO (July 23 to August 22) This is a good time for Leos and Leonas to set new goals regarding health, educational choices and possible career moves. The plans you make now could be a blueprint for your future. VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) You might have much to offer a potential employer, but it can all be overwhelmed by too many details. Let the facts about you speak for themselves without any embellishments. LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) This is a good week to balance

endeavors like the Culinary Arts Series, the Richard Murphy Hospice Foundation and Chefs Evening. According to Media Coordinator for the Hammond Regional Arts Center Tara Bennett, featuring Masaracchia is a tradition for the Culinary Arts Series since it began in 1998. “The menu is always delicious and no one ever leaves hungry,” said Bennett. “People enjoy him not only for the quality of his cuisine, but also your responsibilities to your worka-day world with your obligations to the people in your private life. Expect news that could lead to a change in plans. SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) A changing attitude on the part of a once determined adversary could cause changes down the line. Be prepared to take advantage of an unexpected new opportunity. SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) You’d be a truly wise Sagittarius to be skeptical about an offer that doesn’t answer all your questions. Even a colleague’s testimonial doesn’t replace facts that aren’t there. CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) It’s a good idea to avoid spending on unnecessary purchases this week in order to keep a money reserve against a possible upcoming (but, fortunately, temporary) shortfall. AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) More information is what you should demand regarding that workplace situation that recently came to light. Don’t be surprised at who might turn up as one of your supporters. PISCES (February 19 to March 20) You might still be in a “treading water” mode, but by midweek, a shift in your aspect favors taking a more active role in pushing for the changes you feel are necessary. Good luck. BORN THIS WEEK: You exude a warm, caring attitude that comforts everyone who comes into your life. (c) 2014 King Features Synd., Inc.