The Lion's Roar 07/10/2018

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

Hammond, LA

Leading a new pack of Lions

see PAGE 2

Family separation

The culinary arts of Ducote

see PAGE 3

see PAGE 4

July 10, 2018

Coaching a king

see PAGE 6

Four women represent the university Lifestyle and Fitness

Alyssa Larose

Miss Southeastern Louisiana University

ANNIE GOODMAN News Editor

At the 2018 Miss Louisiana Pageant, four women represented the university.

Along with 2018 Miss Southeastern Louisiana University Alyssa Larose, two former Miss SLUs and a freshman at the university competed.

Larose, a junior special education major, competed in her first pageant when she was a toddler.

She explained how that early introduction has influenced her.

“I started competing in scholarship pageants when I was 4 years old,” said Larose. “My dance teacher introduced my family and me to pageants. After a local prelim and the state pageant, I went on to win the international title and was awarded around $4,000 in college scholarships.”

Although this was Larose’s first time competing in Miss Louisiana, she had attended many times to support friends in the past.

“I competed in the Miss Louisiana’s Outstanding Teen Pageant in 2013 and won the Non-Finalist Talent award,” said Larose. “When I competed in Miss Southeastern, I had not been in a pageant in five years, and my main goal was to become Miss Southeastern to get more involved on campus.”

Kristyn Gary

According to Larose, representing the university as Miss SLU has been “a dream come true.”

So, she set a long list of goals for herself.

Larose said, “After winning the title, my plan was to be the best Miss SLU I could by: being visible on campus and in the community, having fun and doing my best at Miss Louisiana, helping CAB produce an amazing pageant in the fall, getting more sponsorship for future Miss Southeasterns, and guiding the future title holder throughout her reign.”

Although Larose had a goal to have fun at Miss Louisiana, she was surprised at just how fun it ended up being.

“It really was an emotional and empowering feeling modeling on the Miss Louisiana stage in a bathing suit and evening wear,” said Larose.

“I’m extremely grateful that I got to experience that as Miss Southeastern.

It was not until after the pageant was over that I started thinking about going back to compete again, and it was because complete strangers came up to me to say how much they had enjoyed watching me compete throughout the week.”

Currently, Larose is focused on her duties as Miss SLU and does not yet

Miss Shreveport $1,000 Women in Medicine scholarship, $500 Lifestyle & Fitness scholarship, $5,000 1st runner-up scholarship

know if she will compete for any titles next pageant season.

“I would love to compete again,” said Larose. “As of now, I plan to enjoy my last five months as Miss Southeastern.

There is a ton of traditions and events that I am looking forward to, and I will be going out and recruiting contestants for the pageant. The Miss America Pageant is in September, and I’ll decide then if I want to compete for another local title.”

Larose found the 32 other contestants to be what made the pageant most memorable for her.

“Previous contestants and titleholders often say, ‘The sisterhood is real,’” said Larose. “I can honestly tell you they are right. It did not seem like we were there competing against each other. We were bonding, helping each other, and representing our areas to the best of our abilities. We would all sing in the limos on the way to events, calm each other’s nerves backstage and stay up late telling funny stories.

I gained 32 talented, intelligent and amazing friends.”

Due to the formations of the dance numbers, Larose was able to build a bond with 2019 Miss Louisiana Holli’ Conway.

Chloe Burkett

Miss Benton $500 Community Service 1st runner-up scholarship

Unpacking the budget ANNIE GOODMAN News Editor

After a long battle over how to fill a nearly $1 billion fiscal cliff, state legislators have passed a bill that will fully fund higher education through 2025.

When Governor John Bel Edwards was elected to office in 2016, the state was already facing a large budget shortfall. According to Communications Director for Edwards Shauna Sanford, Edwards had to deal with a $1 billion shortfall within his first three months and a $2 billion shortfall the next year. In response to this, Edwards enacted a temporary one-cent sales tax and formed a committee to evaluate nearby tax systems and propose a restructuring of Louisiana’s tax system. The sales tax expired this year leaving legislators with yet another fiscal cliff to solve.

Since Edwards was elected, he has called seven special sessions, all to discuss the budget according to Sanford. The cliff would cause cuts primarily to higher education and health care. However, after three special sessions this year, House lawmakers voted 88-7 to retain 45 percent of the one-penny sales tax, which expired when the fiscal year ended on June 30.

The tax fills a $32.8 billion budget for the 2019 fiscal year.

“Had funding not been secured by renewing a large enough portion of the one cent sales tax, there would have been sizable cuts made to state support for higher education,” said University President Dr. John L. Crain. “Southeastern has already endured 18 reductions in state funds over the past decade.”

Crain further explained how the state’s budget affects the university’s budget.

“Although state funding does not impact higher education budgets remotely

see MISS LA RESULTS, pg. 8 Index

Wednesday H 90 L 73

Talent

Emily Randon

Miss Southern Oaks $1,000 Women in Education scholarship

Weather

Tuesday H 91 L 73

Evening Wear

Onstage Question

Campus Life.......................... 2 & 8 Opinions.............................. 3 & 9 A&E............................................4

Horoscope, Crossword, Sudoku....5 Sports.........................................6 News........................................ 10

see BUDGET, pg. 2 Stay Connected With Us!

Volume 90, Issue 2

Like and follow @lionsroarnews.

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

Page 2 | July 10, 2018

The Lion’s Roar | Campus Life

Welcoming fresh faces to the university ZACHARY ARAKI A&E Editor

Throughout the summer, the university welcomed incoming freshmen and helped them prepare to start college.

Orientation leaders worked to foster some lion pride and guide the students leading up to their introduction to college. Sophomore elementary education major Dejuan James, an orientation leader, offered advice to the freshmen.

“You’re just getting out of high school, and you’re starting to learn things on your own,” said James. “You’re not gonna have your parents with you 24/7 like it was before, but the thing about college as you start to pick things up by yourself, is that’s when you start to learn more about yourself, where you learn how to take responsibility and learn what the real world is like.”

The first week of summer orientation began on June 6, and the last week will be July 11, followed by a final fall orientation on Aug. 9. At the orientations, students can tour campus, pick

up their student ID, and learn more about the university through breakout sessions on topics including campus safety, financial aid, housing and dining.

“The kids are loving it,” said senior marketing and management major Sh-Kaia Mosely, an orientation leader. “The parents are loving it.

They have a lot of questions, and they’re very excited to start in the fall.”

According to James, becoming involved on campus helped him adjust to the college setting.

“The way I got through it was doing something like becoming an orientation leader as well as doing theatre because it’s stuff that I enjoy,” said James. “It was definitely tough adapting to the environment, such a large school with so many different types of people who do many different things, but finding what I love to do definitely made that easier.”

For junior criminal justice major Michael Robinson, an orientation leader, the most challenging part of starting college was being on his own.

“When I came here, I was kind of alone, and

Orientation leaders pose together during an orientation week. Assigned to a color group, the incoming freshmen follow their orientation leader to learn more about the university. During each orientation week, the orientation leaders worked to build up lion pride and teach incoming freshmen about the university. Alyssa Larose/The Lion’s Roar BUDGET

continued from pg. 1 as much as it did a decade ago when it accounted for nearly 70 percent of total funding, it still provides 18 percent of Southeastern’s total enterprise budget,” said Crain. “The remaining 82 percent is generated via such means as tuition, student fees, auxiliaries such as student housing, athletics, Southeastern Foundation support and grants.”

Crain is grateful that students will not have to suffer the effects of a cut to higher education.

“Thankfully, our students can focus on their studies without having to worry about significant increases in costs or decreases in services in order to make up for significant cuts to Southeastern’s operating budget,” said Crain.

“The renewal of .45 of a penny in state sales tax provides for relatively stable funding this next fiscal year.”

This temporary tax provides stability for higher education for the next seven years.

“Since the tax renewal extends through 2025, higher education also should be less at risk for future funding reductions,” said Crain. “And of course, since TOPS will be fully funded next year, our TOPS scholarship recipients no longer need worry about having to pay an extra cost of attendance due to reduction of the scholarship amount that was promised to them.”

Crain urges students to be involved with the state’s legislation.

“Students are always encouraged to be aware and engaged in the legislative decisions, which impact the continued success of Southeastern,” said Crain. “The ROAR Network, maintained by our Alumni Association, is an excellent resource for keeping up with the goings-on in

Baton Rouge during legislative sessions.”

ROAR stands for Reach Out, Advocate, Rally and is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization aiming to educate legislators and government officials on issues concerning higher education according to their website.

“Those who register have access to legislator contact info, bill monitoring and messaging that identifies specific legislation that could either positively or negatively impact Southeastern,” said Crain. “The goal is to keep everyone informed so they may contact legislators if they choose to do so. There’s no cost to register.

Go to www.ciclt.net/southeastern to sign up. Our SGA is great about providing opportunities for students to get involved and, when appropriate, let legislators know how their votes will impact the lives of students who make up the citizenry of the future.”

I didn’t want anybody else to feel like that,” said Robinson. “So, I became an orientation leader to help people out and try to get in the sense of they have friends anywhere and everywhere.”

James encourages incoming freshmen to approach college as more than studying.

“College is meant to be an experience,” said James. “It is meant for you to learn new things, experience different things, meet new people, and just be able to have fun. College exposes you to so many different things that you may not know are for you, and that was something I definitely didn’t know very early on.”

Several factors such as proximity to home and tuition contribute to students’ decisions to attend the university. Freshman nursing major Cole Young shared his reason for choosing the university.

“My cousin went here, and he said he loved it,” said Young. “I know a bunch of my friends that are here already, and they say how much they enjoy it. So, I gave it a try, and I’m here now.”

Mosely discussed the attributes that make the

university an appealing higher education choice to her.

“We are family-based,” said Mosely. “Our classrooms are really small. It’s like a 24-to-1 ratio. It’s hands on, and if you’re a visual learner like me, you can get the attention you need other than like, ‘Oh well, this is what you have to do.

This is the lecture,’ and you go about your day.”

Sophomore elementary education major Buffy Baker, an orientation leader, explained why she feels students should choose to attend the university.

“We have the number one cafeteria in the state,” said Baker. “We have the top nursing program for valued nationally, the top education program for valued nationally. It’s just a really good school, and you don’t have to go a million dollars in debt to come here.”

Freshman computer science major Ason Mol plans to become a programmer. He shared his experience attending the orientation.

“It’s great,” said Mol. “They really explain everything to us, and it’s getting kind of interactive.”

Opinions | The Lion’s Roar

The pride of a journalist’s legacy I am extremely proud of the goals that I have met over the last year as editor-inchief. However, I am even more proud of the progression of the staff that I was able to lead and watch flourish.

Among a staff of chemistry, communication, business, Larshell Green biology and computer Editor-in-Chief science majors, talented reporters have emerged.

I have seen firsthand an increase in confidence, writing and photography skills since they have joined the staff.

For those who may not be familiar with The Lion’s Roar’s production cycle, in my opinion, our week starts over on Tuesday and ends on Monday. Tuesdays are our fresh start. It’s the point where we look at our mistakes, make a plan and improve. Wednesdays are the days to conduct interviews and gather information.

Thursday is the first day of production, and Friday is the second. Monday is our final day to produce a paper whether it’s eight, 10 or 12 pages.

This must be done in addition to web and social media coverage, class schedules and other obligations.

When people first hear that I am editorin-chief of the newspaper, they assume that the schedule is the most difficult aspect of the job. They’re wrong. It’s the people.

I have an amazing staff, but the most difficult part of this position is managing and maintaining relationships with the

administration, audience and all members of the staff.

When I filled out the application to be editor, I had very simple goals, or so I thought they were. I first wanted to create a relationship with the community.

I also wanted to create a positive work environment. Lastly, I wanted to create a level of organization at the paper so great that we would never print one paper without having any idea as to what would go in the next one.

Beyond those goals, I wanted to create a legacy.

I walked on this campus as a shy

freshman who had an interest in telling other people’s stories.

As I prepare to exit in December, I am a confident young woman who has become a leader and a better storyteller as a journalist.

I am incredibly grateful to my mentors in the Office of Student Publications, Director Dr. Lee Lind and Coordinator Lorraine Peppo as well as my parents, communication professors, friends, peers and the entire community for their continuous love, support, honesty and curiosity.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

see LEGACY EDITORIAL, pg. 9

FILE - In this Saturday, June 23, 2018, file photo, a guard walks by toys placed for migrant children by protesters as they march to Homestead Temporary Shelter for Unaccompanied Children, in Homestead, Fla. Foster care advocates say the government won’t likely be able to reunite thousands of children separated from parents who crossed the border illegally, and some will end up in an American foster care system that is stacked against Latinos and other minorities. AP Photo/Brynn Anderson, File Dear Editor,

The Lion’s Roar Editor-in-Chief Larshell Green, far right, poses alongside members of the newspaper’s staff and members of Le Souvenir. The two staffs acts as a “work family” under the umbrella of the Office of Student Publications. File Photo/The Lion’s Roar

SPEAK OUT

What stereotype do you often get mistaken for?

“Well since I’m like 4’ll”, a lot of people think I’m not capable of doing things, or like reaching high places, but I’ve actually learned to overcome it.”

Buffy Baker Freshman, Elementary Education

“The stereotype I usually get mistaken for is that I’m a very mean person or how I come off as mean because of my appearance and how tall I am.”

Daryl Julien Junior, Communication

“I’m kind of douchey sometimes I guess because I don’t talk a lot.”

Tyler Teekel Sophomore, Nursing

“All the time, I get mistaken for that I’m very boujee. I guess it’s because how I carry myself, but really I’m humble and down to earth.”

Noilen Gonzalaes Freshman, Psychology

“The stereotype of being light skinned because I’m light skinned.”

Tamaira Williams Freshman, Athletic Training

“Because I’m fat, I get stereotyped for eating a lot, and sometimes I really don’t. It’s just hard to lose weight when you get older and older and older.”

Tyler Thomas Sophomore, Communication

“Me being a gamer person, but I’m not entirely one.”

Michael Sulzer Freshman, Art

“I get mistaken for being mean because I have resting b---- face. Everybody is always like, ‘Oh my gosh, you look so mean’, but I’m just thinking.

My head’s in space, but I’m just walking.”

Brookelynn Seghers Freshman, Health Systems Management

Being human: Not judging people by appearances I am a person. This is who I am, but people tend to set their own labels on me without knowing my story. I have an olive skin tone, green eyes, curly hair and strong Jennifer Dettwiller facial features.

Staff Reporter With all these factors, I am commonly stereotyped as being “mixed.” This then starts making me wonder what makes someone think this way, and mixed with what type of ethnicity. Why do we, as people, automatically label each other? How wrong can the label we place on one another be?

Stereotypes are one of those things we are unconsciously conditioned to place on people so we can make sense of where people belong. The only stereotype that can always be 100 percent accurate is that

July 10 2018 | Page 3

everyone is human.

Stereotypes are mostly based on what people can deduce from someone else’s appearance. This does not only go for ethnicities either. People are stereotyped by the colors they wear, how they apply their makeup, or don’t apply makeup, the crowds they hang around with and their interests. Because of this, I have donned many masks due to others’ expectations like theatre nerd, basic white chick, teacher’s pet, which I definitely am not, and jock.

However, what many people don’t understand is that stereotypes can be harmful.

Even if they meant it to be the least harmful thing ever, words do hurt.

Calling someone who is in a wheelchair a hypochondriac is an example of my own experience of being harmfully stereotyped. I understood that the person saying this could

not see my illness, but that goes back to placing a stereotype on someone by their appearance.

I’ve also been labeled as being “psychotically skinny.”

I personally do not understand how anyone could take that as a compliment. However, the person who said that meant it in exactly that way. As a woman who struggled with body image when she was younger by making herself sick to stay skinny, I personally couldn’t take that as a compliment. The physical and mental harm labels can cause someone are why people need to think before they speak and stop judging people on appearance.

Harmful, inappropriate sayings also include “a woman’s place is in the kitchen” or “a man can’t show emotion if he wants to be seen as tough.”

Everyone has their preferences if they like to cook or not, and everyone has emotions. Telling people what they should or

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.

Many readers may already be familiar with the recent discussions regarding migrant children being separated from their families who have entered the country illegally. News outlets are discussing the subject less and less now, so I wanted to write a letter in order to continue the conversation.

Here is a quick overview of the situation. Attorney General Jeff Sessions implemented a “zero tolerance policy,” calling for stricter policies regarding the prosecution of migrant families entering the country illegally. The basic process of prosecution is handing over the adults to U.S. marshals and sending them directly to federal court while children are sent to either relatives within the States or shelters run by private organizations. This resulted in almost 2,000 migrant children being separated from their parents within the span of just a few weeks.

If the United States government is just following its own immigration laws by prosecuting families crossing the border illegally, then why has there been a national outcry against the government’s decision to separate the migrant families?

No matter one’s stance on immigration, the separation of children from their families cannot be part of the equation when handling the prosecution of these parents. The psychological and physiological needs of the children are often not being adequately met in these living conditions. On the psychological front, the child’s experience of being separated from their parent can cause long-term trauma and stress due to long-term exposure to fight or flight hormones cortisol and epinephrine. Concentration and learning centers in the brain can be compromised. Many of the centers separate children differently. There are many that keep a large span of age groups together such as all boys under 17. I would argue that this increases the difficulty in meeting each age group’s basic, developmental needs.

For those concerned with the separation of migrant children from their families, there is good news. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order calling for migrant children to be reunited with their families. Though it holds children indefinitely, this is still an encouraging step in the right direction.

This time can be our call to action as American citizens. This is an opportunity for us to hold our government accountable for rejoining families. This can be a chance for us to reach out and do some advocacy. How? As college students, the best solution for us may just be keeping the conversation going, donating whatever little bit of money we can, and supporting acts in Congress that can improve this situation.

Continue the conversation on social media. Respectfully talk with people about what they think of the situation and why. Try to look for advocacy opportunities.

There are several ways to donate. Visit ActBlue’s website.

They’ve gathered different groups, charities and organizations that assist in not only this issue, but for several immigration issues as well. For example, The Florence Project aids in providing legal social services to immigrants in Arizona while Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project and Human Rights First helps provide refugees with access to legal community aid.

Stay updated on solutions. Senator Ted Cruz proposed a possible solution with his Protect Kids and Parents Act. With this bill, he is proposing to double the number of immigration judges, make the processing and reviewing of asylum cases quicker, and keep illegal immigrant families together during the prosecution process unless the parents pose a threat to the child. Senator Cruz’s bill may be a good common ground to move forward with if it were to be passed through Congress. It’s important for us as citizens to stay updated so that we can advocate for acts like this.

This issue is not going away any time soon. It can be argued that this situation may just be a symptom of larger, more complicated problems regarding domestic immigration laws as well as the state of the original countries that the people are coming from. This can be a start for all of us learning more about our immigration policies and how we can start improving them for the better, benefitting both our country and the treatment of those seeking new opportunities here in the States. It’s not simple. It’ll require us educating ourselves on our own laws and policies, and researching the complexities of the issue, but I would argue that this current situation is a wake-up call that this self-education is necessary for all of us.

shouldn’t do because they don’t fit the stereotype of their gender is harmful and highly inappropriate.

Seeing someone for who they are instead of what society has told us to label them as is what will help the world strive. No one is a goth, a prep, the whitest white or an “Oreo” or a thick or too skinny person unless they themselves identify as one. Even with that, it is still inappropriate to call someone any of these names even in a joking manner.

With everything going on in the world, race and skin color have been factors in things that they have nothing to do with, and it is harming the individual people more than the people as a whole.

We are a people. That is what is most important.

I identify as a white female who struggles with an invisible illness and body weight and loves musicals. Who are you without Riana Braselman, other people’s stereotypes?

Junior social work major The Lion’s Roar Staff Editor-in-Chief - Larshell Green News Editor - Annie Goodman A&E Editor - Zachary Araki

Office Assistant - Alyssa Larose Advertising - C. Ian M. Squires Administrative Assistant - Gemma Carter Coordinator - Lorraine Peppo Director - Dr. Lee E. Lind

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

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

Like and follow @lionsroarnews.

www.lionsroarnews.com www.selu.edu/lionsroar lionsroar@southeastern.edu

Page 4 | July 10, 2018

The Lion’s Roar | Arts & Entertainment

Ducote’s journey in culinary arts and media

The Hammond Regional Arts Center featured the culinary arts of Chef Jay Ducote of Gov’t Taco on July 9. Ducote made his place in the culinary media world with his blog “Bite and Booze” and by appearing on culinary shows such as “Food Network Star” and “MasterChef.” Courtesy of Jay Ducote JENNIFER DETTWILLER Staff Reporter

Chef Jay Ducote of Gov’t Taco began his path of becoming a chef in an unusual way.

Ducote had a string of unrelated jobs, first as a high school math teacher and baseball coach. Then, he went to work for the Louisiana government doing grant writing and policy research. He went to college for economic and political science earning a master’s degree in

political science. He is now a restaurant owner and a well-known chef.

Ducote explained how his last job led to his current occupation.

“I was just kind of bored sitting at a computer all day and just wanted some kind of creative outlet,” said Ducote. “Food is what I turned to.”

While he was looking at food as an outlet, Louisiana State University tailgates is where his journey to become a chef began.

“I really got into food, as in cooking, by

throwing tailgate parties for LSU football,” said Ducote. “That was my introduction into cooking and a crash course in Louisiana food and grilling and outdoor cooking and outdoor frying and big cast-iron pots of gumbo, jambalaya, red beans and things like that.”

As Ducote continued his path to becoming a culinary success, he started a blog named “Bite and Booze.”

“I got professionally into food, even though at the time it was really just a hobby, through writing a blog,” said Ducote. “I started doing a lot of food writing and then started cooking more, posting recipes and things like that and got into competitive barbecue and things along those lines. Still, I never thought that a chef was what I wanted to be.”

The growing blog helped put Ducote on the map, which is how Executive Director of the Hammond Regional Arts Center Maureen Joyce learned about him as a chef.

“I knew him personally from when I owned a restaurant in Baton Rouge,” said Joyce. “He was a regular at my restaurant, and before, he was on the Food Network and almost became the ‘Next Food Network Star.’ He was a regular food blogger, and in Baton Rouge, he appears regularly on a radio show called ‘Bite and Booze.’”

With “Bite and Booze,” Ducote also created his own product line but did not refer to himself as a chef at that point. His product line includes items such as Louisiana barbecue sauce, molasses mustard, barbecue rub, wine and coffee.

“Before I would have ever called myself a chef or moved forward in the chef world, I had a product line out and all sorts of stuff in the culinary media world,” said Ducote. “And then, it just all continued to grow. As far as being a chef goes, through other TV opportunities, Food

Network stuff, and building a name for myself with the food and the chef stuff just follows that.”

With his brand and name continuing to grow, Ducote figured out what his next steps into the culinary arts would be. “‘Food Network Star’ just made a whole lot of sense to me,” said Ducote. “I did season two of ‘MasterChef’ in 2011 but didn’t get very far and took that failure and turned it into an opportunity to dedicate myself to it. I knew if I really wanted to be successful in that world, I needed to learn a lot more and get a lot more experience and practice and put myself into that world a whole lot more.”

Ducote explained why he felt “Food Network Star” was his next step.

“As far as TV shows go, looking at ‘Food Network Star’ for that kind of cross between cooking and culinary media talent, it was on my radar as the show that I would love to do if I had the opportunity,” said Ducote.

Ducote was a chef in season 11 of “Food Network Star” after going through many interviews and submitting applications.

Joyce recalled how she learned Ducote was on the show.

“I don’t have cable, so I didn’t actually get to see him until he came into my restaurant and said, ‘Hey, Maureen I might be the next ‘Food Network Star,’” said Joyce. “And I was like, ‘What? That’s amazing,’ and then I watched him, and I thought he was going to win because he was so charming and real and doing such a great job.”

Joyce described Ducote’s cooking style as, “Passionate, fun-loving and full of flavor.”

Ducote was featured as a chef for the night at the Hammond Regional Arts Center on July 9 for the “Culinary Arts Series.”

Revealing the magic in devastation with literature LARSHELL GREEN Editor-In-Chief

During the weekend prior to Hurricane Katrina, alumnus Bryan Camp began working on an assignment for a university writing course.

It later developed into a work of fiction that Camp determined would take a unique perspective on the natural disaster.

“Frankly, the main influence was my inability to avoid writing about it,” said Camp.

“After the storm, I tried to keep writing that book, but I couldn’t ignore the devastation, nor did I feel comfortable using the looming threat of the storm as a plot device. So, instead of trying to write around the storm, I leaned into it and wrote about the aftermath.”

“The City of Lost Fortunes” chronicles a street magician, Jude Dubuisson, in postKatrina New Orleans. When he discovers his ability to find lost things and his father’s status as a god, he plays a poker game with other gods of New Orleans.

According to bryancamp. com, the gods are “playing for the heart and soul of the city itself.”

Camp explained his decision to use some elements of fiction to chronicle true events and experiences.

“Every piece of art, especially narrative art, is aiming for some true statement about life or experience,” said Camp. “Whether it’s a murder mystery that draws on a variety of world mythologies, a realistic drama about a family’s interpersonal relationships, a children’s book with talking animals, or a book about a magical world filled with dragons, all of our stories are, at their core, human.”

Camp’s own family evacuated to his aunt’s house in Florida for about a week. At the time, he was a commuter student living in Slidell. His cousin, who attended the University of New Orleans, stayed with him in a dorm room for Camp’s last semesters at the university.

“This is the main reason why I didn’t write about the storm itself but its aftermath and recovery,” said Camp. “I experienced the storm. I saw the devastation. I helped clean out my grandmother’s house in Chalmette, but in terms of those who truly ‘survived Katrina’ and lost everything, I didn’t feel like that was my story to tell.”

At the time that Camp began the text, he was taking two courses at the university: a detective fiction course with Dr. Claire Denelle Cowart and a

fiction writing workshop led by former writer-in-residence and English Department Instructor Bev Marshall.

During her graduate level creative writing class, Marshall met Camp in August 2005 and was immediately impressed with his writing skills and intricate critiques of his classmates’ work during assignments.

Unfortunately, the course was interrupted by Hurricane Katrina.

Marshall explained, “Bryan has a great capacity to create alternate worlds that are, not only fascinating, but exciting and fun to read. I was impressed by his ability to revise as he listened to the comments of his fellow writers and teacher.”

Camp explained that she first prompted students to describe a room and gave details about it. She later asked participants to add something that didn’t belong to the room. He chose an angel and began to craft a narrative.

“Since I had all these detective stories rolling around in my brain, I decided to describe a seedy, backroom poker game,” said Camp.

Marshall appreciated Camp’s attention to detail, error-free prose, but most importantly, his character development.

“He understood his characters, and his compassion

for them as sentient beings shone through in his work,” said Marshall.

As a writer, Camp describes his aesthetic as being influenced by a continuous chain of curiosity and suspense.

“I like dense, deceptive prose that tackles big, impossible to answer questions,” said Camp.

“I like puzzles, mysteries and trickery. I like magical worlds that feel real and real worlds that feel magical.”

Trickster myth is considered to be a repetitive theme throughout the book.

According to Camp, it causes those involved to consider their decisions in life and place in society. Camp explained why he included this element and what hopes he has for audience members.

“Trickster myth tends to cause people to re-evaluate their position in the world,” said Camp. “So, if I could make my readers do that, to reconsider a thing they took for granted about their privilege, or their community, or how the world works, I’d consider that a success.”

Camp published his story “The Independence Patch” in “Lightspeed Magazine” this year. A podcast and Vietnamese translation of the book was produced along with the text.

His second novel will be

Alumnus and author Bryan Camp created a work of fiction based on New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. In “The City of Lost Fortunes,” fictional characters examine their roles of power and trickery through different outlets. Courtesy of Bryan Camp

published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt in 2019.

Visit www.bryancamp. com to see information about Camp’s upcoming appearances and work.

Camp hopes to create a second New Orleans-inspired book. He is currently working to produce a fantasy version of

French and Spanish Colonial New Orleans that will include pirates, automatons, magic and revolution.

“I’d like to write other kinds of stuff one day, too,” said Camp. “I love video games and comics, but for the near future, I’d be happy to just keep writing books.”

Arts & Entertainment | The Lion’s Roar

July 10, 2018 | Page 5

What to know for the 23rd ‘Hot August Night’ ZACHARY ARAKI A&E Editor

Every year, the Hammond Downtown Development District brings together the community and showcases local work.

Scheduled for Friday, Aug. 24, the 23rd annual “Hot August Night” will promote what downtown Hammond has to offer.

“Last year was one of the best ‘Hot August Nights’ we’ve ever had,” said DDD Administrative Assistant Olivia Graziano. “This year,

“Hot August Night” allows artists like Kelly Boyett to show off her creative skills by capturing a scene in the Art Alley, top. Performing groups like the belly dance troupe Tribal Happenings entertained attendees in front of the Downtown Development District Main Stage, bottom. File Photo/The Lion’s Roar

we are utilizing a committee to acquire even more fresh ideas that will take the event to even greater heights. We’re very excited.”

Graziano discussed how the event has grown since its start. “‘Hot August Night’ began as a merchant event created in an effort to bring visitors to a growing downtown,” said Graziano. “It has since become a ‘minifestival’ in a thriving part of our city that everyone looks forward to, bringing 8,000-10,000 people to the district each year. Although it has evolved since its inception, the goal remains the same: to get people to experience downtown.”

As usual, the university pep rally “Lionpawlooza” will kick off the night at 6 p.m. in front of the DDD stage. The event will include the wine and beer walk, car show and art alley for artists to showcase their craftsmanship. Along with the traditional events, “Hot August Night” will include new aspects such as fast passes, which is an option to prepay by Aug. 21 for the wine and beer walk.

“This year, we are encouraging nonprofits to partner with downtown merchants for even more community involvement,” said Graziano. “We are also implementing fast passes for our wine and beer walk, and ‘Lionpawlooza’ will feature a Lion Walk before the pep rally kicks off at 6.”

The night will also feature local and original music at the “Listening Local” stage from 6-10:30 p.m. at a location that will be decided later. The

Following the pep rally “Lionpawlooza,” Roomie poses with a Lionette. File Photo/ The Lion’s Roar

deadline to apply is July 13, and the application can be found on DDD’s website.

“This is actually something that happened a few years ago and got lost over time,” said Graziano. “Local musicians are hungry for places to play their original music. A local musician, Britton Newton of Biscuithound, has been instrumental in bringing this concept back to life, and we are thrilled to be able to give these artists a venue for the evening.”

More information about “Hot August Night” can be found on the DDD website.

Graziano discussed DDD’s goals for hosting “Hot August Night.” “‘Hot August Night’ allows our community to celebrate together and experience downtown all in one night,” said Graziano. “Any money raised by the DDD during the evening will be used to accomplish items on our strategic plan, all of which are geared to improve our district. Overall, though, our goal is to get people to return to downtown after the event and shop, eat or play at one of our district’s many establishments.”

Events celebrating the arts and culture in Hammond ZACHARY ARAKI A&E Editor

Culture and appreciation for the arts can be found throughout Hammond.

The university is holding an art workshop for children from July 9-19 taught by Associate Professor of Art Education Kim Finley-Stansbury. The Hammond Art Guild teaches adult summer art camps at the Hammond Regional Arts Center from July 16-20 and 23-27.

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Things that usually come easily and quickly for the Aries Lamb might need more of your time and attention during the next several days. Try to be patient as you work things out.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) A changing situation can create some complications. But if you apply that sensible Bovine mind to what seems to be a hopeless tangle of confusion, you’ll soon sort things out.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Creating a new look for your surroundings is fun. Expect to hear mostly positive comments on your efforts, as well as some wellintended suggestions you might want to note.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Maybe you’d rather do anything else than what you’re “stuck with” right now. But if you stop complaining, you might see how this could lead to something with real potential.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) Even a proud Leo ultimately recovers from hurt feelings. However, a damaged relationship might never heal unless you’re willing to spend more time and effort trying to work things out.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) There are lots of changes on the horizon, so be prepared to make some adjustments in your usually fine-tuned life. One change might even impact a personal decision you’ve been putting off.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Being the dependable

person you are could work in your favor for a project that requires both skill and accountability. But check this out carefully. There could be a hidden downside.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) A temperamental outburst about a mishandled project causes some fallout. Be sure to couple an apology with an explanation. A new opportunity beckons by week’s end.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Changing horses midstream is usually unwise but sometimes necessary. Examine your options carefully before making a decision. A trusted colleague offers good advice.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) While much of your time is involved with business matters, fun-time opportunities open up by week’s end. Enjoy yourself, but be careful that you don’t overspend.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) A “revelation” opens your eyes to what is really going on in the workplace. What you learn could make a difference in your career path. Continue to be alert for more news.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Not wanting to make waves might be the safest way to deal with a difficult situation. But no substantive changes can be made unless you share your assessments with others.

BORN THIS WEEK: You have a way of talking to people that makes them want to listen. You could find a successful career in politics. (c) 2014 King Features Synd., Inc.

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HRAC also has an art exhibition and the monthly segment of “Playing the Staircase” coming soon. The opening reception for the artworks of metal artists John and Nancy Perilloux is scheduled for Friday, Aug. 3 from 5-8 p.m. The couple’s metal artworks draw inspiration from nature. On the last Friday of the month from 6-8 p.m., HRAC features a local or regional musician to perform original music. The July musicians are Clay Parker and Jodi James, an acoustic duo from Baton Rouge.

The exhibition is free and open to the public while admission to “Playing the Staircase” is $5.

Every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on West Thomas St., the Hammond Downtown Development District hosts a farmers market for local vendors and artisans to display the fruits of their labor. On every third Saturday of the month, the farmers market also includes a pet adoption.

Other local establishments can satisfy one’s desire for the arts. Painting classes can be found at Painting with a Twist. The Louisiana Ballroom Dance Club, Lemoine Academy of Dance and Fellom Ballet School, among others, offer dance lessons.

The Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts and university Musician Nathaniel Bauerle, right, performs on the streets of Hammond during programs such as music ensembles, the Contemporary Art the 2017 “Hot August Night.” File Photo/The Lion’s Roar Gallery, dance and theatre will resume their seasons in the fall.

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Page 6 | July 10, 2018

The Lion’s Roar | Sports

From the eyes of a coach New faces, new season

Senior general studies major Devin King and his coach Erica Fraley review a video of his pole vaults during practice to spot areas of improvement. Fraley has been coaching pole vault for around 10 years. Zachary Araki/The Lion’s Roar ZACHARY ARAKI A&E Editor

As athletes strive towards their goals, their coaches mentor and help them reach their dreams.

Erica Fraley began coaching Devin King in pole vault during his freshman year of high school and continued until King started college. After former track and field head coach Sean Brady took a position at Texas A&M University, Fraley resumed coaching King.

Since beginning his career in pole vaulting, King has earned a number of honors. King ranked 5th in the International Association of Athletics Federations world outdoor rankings this last spring.

He tied for 17th at the 2016 U.S.

Olympic Track and Field Trials.

He made the LSWA All-Louisiana Team every year of his collegiate career and holds the university pole vault record. King has displayed his skill in the sport on state, national and international levels. Fraley discussed King’s athletic capabilities.

“He’s one of those kids that had really good coordination and power for his body,” said Fraley.

“He played a lot of other sports growing up, baseball, football, and was really talented physically but didn’t necessarily know his own power. He had a lot of athletic ability that was almost dormant in his body. As an athlete, he had a lot of untapped potential.”

Before making his mark in college athletics, King displayed

his skill in the pole vault.

According to Fraley, King’s pole vault career started as a typical high school performance but progressed quickly. In 2014, King tied for 2nd at the IAAF World Junior Track and Field Championships in Athletics.

Fraley explained that being an athlete requires consistency and maturity to make wise life decisions including sleep and diet.

“I was at my best when I was 28 years old, and it wasn’t because I started young or I didn’t know what I was doing,” said Fraley.

“It just takes that long to hone your craft and develop physically completely and have a good idea of what you’re trying to do with the technique part of it.”

Fraley’s experience as an athlete in high school, college and beyond serves her as a coach. She competed at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing before coaching high school athletes.

For Fraley, the position change from athlete to coach was a natural crossover. She explained that the hardest part about being a coach for her is anticipating the struggles athletes will face.

“There are going to be ups and downs, and you can’t avoid the downs,” said Fraley. “Coaching is just as emotional as being the athlete. The athlete puts a lot of emotion into their dreams and aspirations. As a coach, you realize there’s a lot of emotion that goes into being a good coach for your athlete, helping them prepare and hope for the best, but ready to be supportive through disappointments. Coaches have more experience, so we know there’s pain along the way.”.

Fraley described her coaching philosophy as not pushing athletes past their limits.

“I’m not a pushy coach,” said Fraley. “I’m more of a coach that wants you to find your love and joy for what you’re doing and help enhance that. My philosophy is if you bring effort, heart and desire to practice, then I can help you use that to be a better athlete.”

Whether or not Fraley will continue coaching King past graduation remains undecided.

“He is an exceptional athlete that is world class level, and Southeastern is really fortunate to have him,” said Fraley. “He’s put Southeastern on the map as far as track and field goes with his performances.”

How Salim found an avenue to success LARSHELL GREEN Editor-in-Chief

As members of the Chicago Cubs stole bases during televised games, one little boy was glued to the television, eagerly watching with laughter, tears and intense passion.

“I knew at a young age that I wanted to pursue a career in sports,” said Christopher Salim. “I just wasn’t sure of the exact avenue for a long time.”

Salim recently received a position as the assistant director of sports information. He will now be the primary contact for men’s basketball, soccer, track and field, cross country and golf and continue to be the play-byplay radio announcer for the men’s basketball team.

While attending Northwestern State University, Salim began to realize how many angles and paths of success he had access to in life. He earned a degree from the university in 2007 and played baseball there from 2004-2006.

Salim explained, “I knew that if I stayed the course and trusted those around me including the mentors I had at NSU, that no matter what choice I made, I could always know that I was going in the right direction.”

On-the-job training contributed to Salim’s development of an onair personality that he describes as “comfortable and entertaining” despite the outcome of games.

Salim shared the most important

lesson he learned as the radio color commentator for Northwestern State University baseball.

“There were a lot of little nuances of broadcasting that came from color commentary,” said Salim. “Most importantly, ‘remember to never speak over the person you are on the air with and to always communicate.’”

Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Information Kemmler Chapple along with Athletics were familiar with Salim’s work as a radio play-by-play announcer for men’s basketball home games during the last season.

When former Assistant Director of Sports Information Michael Kiral left his position at the end of April, Salim expressed interest in beginning a new career at the university.

“A friend of mine from Natchitoches heard about the opening and told me about it,” said Salim. “From there, one thing led to the other, and fortunately, I was able to get my foot in the door. The fact that SLU Athletics has been on such a dramatic incline the past six to eight years, I knew that was something I wanted to be a part of.”

Salim’s experience in sports expands to producing public addresses for football, men’s basketball, volleyball and softball at Northwestern. In Natchitoches, he did broadcasts during football, basketball, baseball and softball games from 2009-2017, and served as the Natchitoches Times sports editor from 2011-2013.

Salim has developed memories games that much more exciting,” broadcasting each sport, making it said Salim. “With football, you difficult for him to pick a favorite. never know when the big play is “They all bring an element out see SALIM, pg. 7 of me emotionally that makes the

Christopher Salim stands on the football field of Strawberry Stadium. Salim recently earned the position as the assistant director of sports information. Larshell Green/The Lion’s Roar

Christopher Salim, far left, holds a Little League trophy beside his father Robert Salim and brother Tony Salim. His love for sports began with an admiration for the Chicago Cubs baseball team. Courtesy of Christopher salim

The Lions football team now has 17 new recruits to begin play in the fall. The players are preparing for fall practices that will begin in August with the new Head Coach Frank Scelfo. File Photo/The Lion’s Roar JENNIFER DETTWILLER Staff Reporter

The university football team welcomes 17 new recruits to the team roster for the upcoming 2018 football season.

Head Coach Frank Scelfo described his hopes for the upcoming season with the new talent the recruits bring to the team.

“We’re very excited about the incoming class of recruits who will be joining our program for the 2018 season,” said Scelfo.

“Several of our new recruits were able to participate in spring practice, and we expect many of our newcomers to have an immediate positive impact both on and off the field.”

These new additions to the team are expected to bring not only fresh talent to the team, but also a new and improved attitude that will unify the team and take them headfirst into a successful season.

Scelfo explained that he is looking forward to seeing the new set of players become acclimated to college football.

Scelfo said, “It’s so neat to watch a young guy come out of there and do the things that he needs to do to be able to play and go out, run out on the field for the first time and stuff like that to a collegiate football player for the first time. It’s pretty good to see, and it’s pretty neat to watch.”

With the fall season approaching, Scelfo expressed

his hopes for the team as a whole.

“We expect to be very competitive, and our team will play hard each time out,” said Scelfo. “We spent the spring familiarizing our studentathletes with the pace that we expect to practice with.

Heading into the season, when fall practice opens in August, we will continue to evaluate where we’re at as a program every day. We’re excited for 2018.”

The recruits are to include Joshua Carr form Houston, Texas, Dante’ Carter from New Orleans, Louisiana, Josh Cook from Walker, Louisiana, Jarius Gooch from Water Valley, Mississippi, Kaleb Hogg from Sulphur, Louisiana, Nathan Holliday from Watson, Louisiana, Taron Jones from Mandeville, Louisiana, Brendon Kelley from Franklinton, Louisiana, Brennan Lanclos from Mandeville, Louisiana, Xavier Lewis from LaPlace, Louisiana, Mike Mason from Encino, California, Chris Penton from Mandeville, Louisiana, Semaj Thomas from Fort Worth, Texas, Chason Virgil from Mesquite, Texas, Donniel Ward-Magee from New Orleans, Louisiana, Marquis Williams from Daytona Beach, Florida and Matthew Wright from Austin, Texas.

Football season is set to kick off at the University of Louisiana at Monroe on Thursday, Aug. 30 at 7 p.m.

What’s your favorite KSLU program?

SPORTS | The Lion’s Roar

JULY 10 , 2018 | PAGE 7

‘What inspires you?’

A word from the coaches Senior Staff Reporter Jonathan Rhodes spoke with university coaches. When asked the question, “Who or what inspired you to play sports?” coaches from a variety of areas gave comments about their motivations for their love of sports. Answers ranged from childhood relationships to hands on leadership. Regardless of their introductions into the sports world, all of the coaches Upon entrance into Strawberry Stadium, guests are greeted by action shots of university athletes displayed on the show passion for their chosen path. corridor columns. These pictures were taken throughout the years highlighting the 11 sport programs. ANNIE GOODMAN/THE LION’S ROAR

Rick Fremin Softball Head Coach

Ayla Guzzardo Women’s Basketball Head Coach

Jason Hayes Tennis Head Coach

A number of things

My drive inspired me to

I was very fortunate. I grew up in a neighborhood

inspired me to play

play sports. I saw all my

that had about 20 kids my age, and all we would

sports such as my

male friends and family

do was play sports year-round. I absolutely love

parents, mentors,

thriving in sports, and I was

competition. I played everything from team

and that I excelled

determined to be successful

sports to individual sports, and there’s nothing

in numerous areas.

in the sporting world no

better than competing for your school. It just

matter what I played or did.

means more.

Corey Mistretta Track and Field/ Cross Country Head Coach

Jay Ladner Men’s Basketball Head Coach My

dad

basketball and

I

was

a

coach, saw

the

positive influence he had in his players.

Jake Narro Golf Head Coach

Frank Scelfo Football Head Coach

My mom and dad are both Southeastern

My father, Ray Narro, inspired me to love all sports and

I come from a family of eight

alumni. They were both educators and

especially golf. He was a journalist [just like you] sports

brothers and sisters, and

coaches in Louisiana for many years. I

editor of The Meridian Star in Meridian, Mississippi. He

my dad was a high school

played football for my dad who is in the

took me to tons of sporting events growing up, which

coach. We played whatever

Louisiana High School Sports Hall of Fame.

included Saints games, Braves baseball, Mississippi State

sport was in season, outside,

Mom and Dad both inspired and encouraged

vs. Ole Miss football games and tons more. He was my

every day. Bragging rights

my siblings and I to be involved in sports

Little League Baseball coach. My favorite trip ever was

were on the line, and we

from an early age. Our mother instilled an

when he took me to the Masters Golf Tournament when

competed every day. Never

intense competitive spirit in all of us.

I was 13.

back down.

SALIM

continued from pg. 6 going to happen. The build-up for the games is so big that by the time kickoff arrives there is an adrenaline rush for a broadcaster almost the same as a player.”

According to Salim, each sport shows him a different perspective and produces a different reaction as a play-byplay broadcaster.

“Baseball is fun in that it is the sport I’m most knowledgeable with,” said Salim. “I can break down the game for the fans without criticizing players and also have enough down time to entertain the people listening.

Basketball may be the most exciting because of the pace. It is non-stop for two hours. The atmosphere is intense from the opening tip off.”

Chapple enters his 15th year at the university and his fifth

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as sports information director.

Although Salim joined the staff at the end of May, Chapple has high hopes for him.

“His experience in both print media and radio made him an ideal candidate,” said Chapple.

“Add to that his experience working in our conference, and we’re fortunate to have Chris join our department. He’s become more comfortable in his position as each day goes by and has proven that he will be a great asset to our department.”

Chapple shared that he hopes to instill departmental values such as dependability and hard work during Salim’s training process. Although Salim has not defined specific goals to complete during his tenure at the university, his principles seem to align with those of Chapple.

“As long as I’m doing the job at a high level on a daily basis that I know I’m capable of, and the supporters of this university know that they can rely on me for timely and accurate information, then it’s a job well done,” said Salim.

Page 8 | July 10, 2018

The Lion’s Roar | News

Designing his own future JENNIFER DETTWILLER Staff Reporter

University alumnus Dwayne Woodard started as an event promoter in 2014 and has since grown into an entrepreneur with his own prospering business, DOH Visuals LLC, which specializes in graphic designs.

The DOH title is derived from both his social media handle and childhood nickname “DohDollars.”

Woodard explained that he decided to learn the craft to improve promotion productivity, using YouTube as a guidebook. He also cited the university and his many experiences as major components to his current success.

“My time at Southeastern helped my brand grow by providing it with a platform,” said Woodard. “During my last year, I was able to design a vast amount of projects for different organizations.”

One of these university-based projects that helped propel him to his current level of success was the election campaign of Student Government Association President Richard Davis Jr. “Dwayne is a bright businessman and brother who knows how to treat his customers and his friends right,” said Davis. “He is funny and very sociable, but also knows how to separate business from his personal life. He helped me with all of the graphics for my campaign from the flyers promoting my platform and my experience to my voting countdown flyers to the ‘thank you’ flyer, which I posted after I won the election.”

Davis explained his decision to use Woodard for his campaign.

“I chose to use my fraternity brother’s company because he does all of the graphic design work for our chapter, and he has a very good eye for detail,” said Davis. “He also knows how to turn your ideas into reality and is open to changes.”

Assistant to the Coordinator of Marketing and Promotions Caitlin Wade first met Woodard when he reached out to her supervisor Lindsey Cramer to request an internship for Fall 2017.

Wade grew fond of Woodard’s work ethic.

“He is the kind of person you want for all four years of their college career,” said Wade. “I could tell he was self taught but that he was passionate about his work.

Naturally, he has an eye for putting together imagery and text to convey whatever subject he is working on skillfully.”

Although she noted that Woodard was self taught, she remains impressed and nabbed him a “skilled designer” in a constantly changing field. She explained that because he knows what his strengths and weaknesses are as a designer, she assigned him work in both categories in the hopes of giving him more experience.

“I hope Dwayne accomplishes what it truly means to be a free lance designer,” said Wade. “He has the connections, communication and work ethic for it.

Not all designers are cut out for that route of design.

He is on top of his game, so I hope he continues on that path because I can see it opening a lot of doors for him and his portfolio.”

With no specific creative process for his works, Woodard described the early stages of his projects as freestyling.

He discussed his future business prospects with various companies.

“Majority of my clientele request flyer design, but I plan to expand to motion graphics in the near future,” said Woodard. “I would also like to work on political campaign teams and partner with restaurants.”

In continuing his journey, Woodard explained what he hopes to improve upon in regards to his business.

“My first priority is to enhance my customer service skills,” said Woodard. “The next step would

University alumnus Dwayne Woodard pauses from his work as a graphic designer to pose for a picture. Woodard is an entrepreneur with his business DOH Visuals LLC. Jennifer Dettwiller/The Lion’s Roar be to systematize my everyday operations. All good businesses function with systems. Once I get consistent advertising content to balance with what’s stated above, the product demand should be through the roof.”

When progressing one’s career in a business setting, establishing goals and a path to accomplish them is imperative to success.

“In the future, I want to be known as a multimedia

expert,” said Woodard. “In doing that, I will enhance my designing skills in photo, video and still art.

One day, I plan to own a multimedia shop that offers designing, printing, video production and advertisement. I also have interest in event planning, fashion and investment property. I am currently in a partnership with a printing company in Baton Rouge with more consistent clientele.”

Student news reporter makes the university proud

Junior communication major Amanda Kitch accepts the 2018 Louisiana Association of Broadcasters Student Scholarship for her performance with the Southeastern Channel. Courtesy of Amanda Kitch PRAKRITI ADHIKARI Staff Reporter

Student reporter at the Southeastern Channel and junior communication major Amanda Kitch was awarded the 2018 Louisiana Association of Broadcasters Student Scholarship for an outstanding performance in news broadcasting and reporting.

MISS LA RESULTS

continued from pg. 1

“We are all so excited for the new Miss Louisiana Holli’ Conway,” said Larose. “She stood next to me in the opening and closing productions, so I got to know her pretty well. I can remember holding Miss Benton Chloe Burkett’s hand as they announced the winner. We both were ugly crying big happy tears for Holli’.”

Larose finds it hard to pinpoint a difficult part of the experience.

“The week went by so smoothly because of those people who truly care about each contestant and believe in opportunities of the organization,” said Larose.

2018 Miss Shreveport Emily Randon, who graduated from the university in 2016 with a degree in kinesiology, competed in her first ever pageant in 2014, taking the title of 2015 Miss Southeastern Louisiana University.

“I was honored to represent my university at Miss Louisiana and place second runner-up,” said Randon. “After that, I competed at Miss Louisiana again as Miss Crescent City New Orleans 2016 and as Miss St. Tammany Heritage in 2017. I placed second runnerup to Miss Louisiana three times in a row in 2015, 2016 and 2017.

According to their website, LAB is a statewide organization dedicated to promoting “the success and prosperity of Louisiana’s Broadcasters and advancement of the broadcasting industry.” The organization awarded Kitch with a scholarship of $4,000.

Kitch applied with necessary documents for the scholarship after General Manager of the Southeastern

This year, I broke my ‘second runner-up streak’ by placing first runner-up.”

In addition to placing first runner-up, Randon received scholarships for Lifestyle and Fitness and Women in Medicine.

Randon is determined to compete in the Miss Louisiana Pageant again next year.

“I would love to compete one last time before I age out,” said Randon. “I am a very driven person, and I won’t give up on my dream of becoming Miss Louisiana and competing at Miss America.”

During the Miss Louisiana Pageant buildup, Randon made a personal connection with a Monroe citizen she met at a nursing home.

“Miss Louisiana week is filled with rehearsals as well as community service appearances,” said Randon. “I enjoyed visiting the nursing home in Monroe and playing bingo with the senior citizens that lived there. I met an elderly woman, Mrs. Dale, who told me stories about how she, too, used to be a ballerina.”

Due to the packed schedule of Miss Louisiana contestants, Randon found it difficult to work in her daily exercise routine.

“The most challenging part of Miss Louisiana week was finding time to workout,” said Randon.

“I am a fitness junkie and usually

workout every day, but it was hard to find the time to exercise with the rigorous schedule of rehearsals and events.”

Randon appreciates the community service opportunities being a title holder opens up to her.

“Although I do not need a crown and sash to serve, the Miss America Organization has provided me with incredible opportunities over the years to give back to my community,” said Randon. “Just this past spring, I hosted a peanut butter drive in Hammond where I collected over 700 jars of peanut butter for the Food Bank of Northeast Louisiana.

I have also been able to serve in several children’s hospitals as well as raise funds for many different charities.”

Much like her late start to pageants, Randon was a late comer to the world of dance as well.

“I began my ballet training at the age of 12, which is considered old to start dancing,” said Randon.

“However, I was able to catch up and train on a pre-professional track throughout high school. I have been dancing for 12 years now, and I am a classical ballet instructor for several schools in St. Tammany Parish and Tangipahoa Parish.”

Randon performed a classical ballet en point piece to an excerpt from Georges Bizet’s famous

Channel Rick Settoon passed on the information.

Kitch was flattered to attend the LAB luncheon and to accept the award.

“This was quite the experience as I accepted my award and gave my acceptance speech in front of the greatest reporters and producers in the entire state,” said Kitch. “Winning this award created a whole new meaning of Southeastern’s motto ‘Success Matters.’

My success not only matters to me, but it now matters to my community and to everyone around me.”

Along with feeling honored, Kitch aims to continue doing well. She feels more motivated than ever to be more visible in the world of broadcast.

“If they are willing to invest several thousands of dollars in my skills and education, then I know they see greatness in me,” said Kitch. “That’s incredibly flattering. In my acceptance speech, I promised the audience that they will be seeing more of me, and I am not kidding.”

Kitch has already bagged several awards in the past. An honorable mention for the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Suncoast Chapter Scholarship Award 2018, an Emmy Honorable Mention for Public Service Announcement and a Louisiana and Mississippi Associate Press Broadcasters 2018 Award are only a few of the awards she lists in her resume. Kitch believes the Southeastern Channel has resources, mentors, tools and knowledge that help her network with people in her field.

“I also get to network with people in my field who actually remember my name and my work, like channel producers,” said Kitch. “The channel allows me to make what I want out of my position as a student reporter. I have the experience of going out in the real world to cover real stories with real people to learn from real mistakes and create real successes.” opera “Carmen.”

“Classical ballet en pointe is my forte,” said Randon. “I thoroughly enjoyed dancing the intriguing and flirtatious character of Carmen for my talent piece. I know many of my ballet students were watching at home, and it was my goal to inspire them to dream big.”

During the preliminary competitions on the first night, Randon won a $500 scholarship for Lifestyle and Fitness.

“Although this was my third time winning Lifestyle and Fitness in Swimsuit at Miss Louisiana, I felt especially excited and accomplished when I heard my name called,” said Randon.” It meant that all of my hard work had paid off. Also, with the new changes in the Miss America system, specifically the elimination of the swimsuit portion, it felt extremely sentimental to have won this award.”

Freshman marketing major Chloe Burkett, who competed as Miss Benton 2018, has been involved with pageants since childhood.

“I started pageants when I was 10 years old and ever since have become more in love with it,” said Burkett. “Starting this ‘sport’ was an action taken by my mom because she just wanted me to be more involved with girls my age.

I’m thankful that she did because

Settoon is proud of Kitch’s achievement. He believes the recognition helps to validate her future as a broadcaster.

“The LAB Student Scholarship was established to encourage careers for future broadcasters in Louisiana,” said Settoon. “In honoring Amanda, it shows that the LAB and all state professionals in the industry recognize not only her talent and quality of work, as she’s already won multiple national and regional awards, but also her career focus and vision.

With this scholarship, the LAB is making a generous investment in what they believe will be Amanda’s future as an outstanding broadcaster.”

According to Settoon, student reporters from the university have been awarded the Student Broadcaster of the Year award four times during the past five years.

Along with Kitch, Wesley Boone received the Student Broadcaster of the Year award. Settoon feels it is prestigious for students to be awarded with such honors.

“It’s tremendous for both Wesley and Amanda to be honored as the very best in the state by the LAB,” said Settoon. “For Wesley, to be selected as the state’s top student broadcaster out of all college television and radio students in Louisiana, is extremely prestigious since the award is given by all television and radio professionals in the state who can truly recognize the very best talent, skill and quality of work possessed and demonstrated by students.”

Kitch, who believes she was taught by “the most respected and talented theatrical, broadcasting and video professionals in the state,” plans to intern at a news station or video company in the near future.

With her everyday experience, Kitch hopes “to climb the journalistic ladder” and find a way to the top.

I’ve made lasting friendships.”

Burkett received a scholarship for Community Service First Runner-up.

According to Burkett, the lack of sleep made the week a challenge.

“We had early mornings and late nights, but I was able to get through it because we all were delirious by the end of the week,” said Burkett. “It was the best week of my life.”

Junior early childhood education major Kristyn Gary began her Miss Pageant career at the university when she was named Miss Southeastern Louisiana University 2017.

“I was interested in the experience and the scholarships,” said Gary. “The Miss Southeastern Pageant opened up so many doors for me and led me to where I am now.”

Since Miss SLU, this was Gary’s second time competing at Miss Louisiana.

“I would love the opportunity to compete again,” said Gary. “It is such a great experience and has taught me so much.”

Gary was the recipient of a $1,000 Women in Education Award.

Gary, whose platform is Book it to Success: Promoting Early Childhood Literacy, enjoyed being able to visit a local Monroe library

and read to children.

“The most memorable part of the Miss Louisiana Pageant was when we visited the local library in Monroe,” said Gary. “As an early childhood education major, being able to read to the children and play games was a blast. During a week of long rehearsals and preparation, appearances like that are a great way to bring the contestants back down to earth. It really reminds us what is important.”

Gary felt a little homesick during the week-long pageant experience.

“The most challenging part of the Miss Louisiana Pageant was being away from family for a whole week,” said Gary.

“Also, running on little sleep was challenging, but it was worth it.”

Larose expressed her gratitude for her supporters leading up to the pageant and is planning a moving farewell speech.

“I’m extremely thankful for my family, friends and the Southeastern administrators that helped me during my preparation for the pageant,” said Larose. “It is hard work balancing appearances, work, school, preparation and a job, but I got through it because I had an awesome support system.

I can’t thank those people enough.

There’s no doubt in my mind that this year’s Miss SLU pageant will be a huge success.”

Correction: In the June 12th issue of The Lion’s Roar, the volume and issue date was listed as Volume 89 Issue 29. It should have been listed as Volume 90 Issue 1.

Opinion | The Lion’s Roar

July 10, 2018 | Page 9

No fuss school readiness tips With the end of summer fast approaching, students may be dreading the upcoming semester, or looking forward to a chance to redeem themselves academically. One way to prepare for this is by being informed of the ins and outs of the processes essential to a successful start of the new term. Staff Reporter Jennifer Dettwiller shares her opinion on a few ways to do so.

To-Do’s for campus finances

Reaching your ‘A’ game An additional helpful resource is “The A Game”

by Ken Sufka, which helps establish good academic habits for college students that include how to avoid cheap seats and tips to improving social skills throughout your college career.

After coming back from study abroad or taking a semester off, make sure your financial aid is valid for more than just one more semester if you do not plan to graduate in Fall 2018.

Another thing to ensure is that your scholarships have been filed correctly before starting the semester. Verify that checks are made out to the university and are brought to the Office of Financial Aid on North Campus in enough time for them to be processed before the semester in order to avoid future stress and conflict.

Sarah Hess/The Lion’s Roar

A tip for keeping notes in one place The best type of notebook to purchase in order to condense all class notes would be a five-subject notebook and at least one to two folders to stay organized throughout the semester.

Navigating the Lion Nation For incoming freshmen, using a photo of the campus from your phone to find classes will help substantially during the first two weeks of school.

Also, always have your school I.D. You will need it to receive the Scantrons available to students at the Student Government Association office located in Student Union Room 2307.

Sarah Hess/The Lion’s Roar

Sarah Hess/The Lion’s Roar

Preparation from home Try to implement a sleep schedule that will coincide with your class schedule. Hydrate and regulate your diet now so that when school comes around, you have energy for classes and do not skip because your 8 a.m. is “too early.”

LEGACY EDITORIAL

continued from pg. 3

The staff is incredibly competent. There is no challenge that they step down from. Each member, past or present, has had an impact on my life.

But the thing is, no matter how prepared you

are, there is no rule book that tells you how to deal with a stressed out reporter who wants to quit. There’s no list of procedures that tells you how to personally react when the public develops some distrust of your organization.

There is no way to plan for a campus shooting or other threats involving other students without being personally affected.

There’s one simple thing to do in all of those situations: tell the story. Be diligent, truthful and willing to expand your perceived notions.

When I first decided to begin the position as editor-in-chief at the end of last May, I only planned to stay for about a year. When May came around, I frantically contemplated what to do next. I felt like my time was up and that I needed to allow someone else to build their legacy.

I’ve learned that it’s OK not to know what’s behind every single corner. Here’s what I hope will happen for me in the next few months: I will complete the remaining summer and fall courses that I have, continue to produce written and visual content for Chappapeela Sports Park and

learn a new skill in a position in the media,or any facet of journalism.

To the next editor-in-chief and other editors, stand your ground. Write and report on the things that matter to you, the staff and the community.

Take risks in content and design. Maintain a relationship with the staff. Have conversations with the community.

Have principles instilled in the place that will become your second home. This paper has never been and will never be created by one person. It takes a team to raise, advance and improve the “baby” that we call The Lion’s Roar.

It’s been an honor to serve as your editor-inchief. Stay tuned for my next journey.

The Lion’s Roar Editor-in-Chief Larshell Green, center right, holds the Student Publications Leadership Award at the 2018 “Division for Student Affairs Convocation.” She stands beside her mentor and Coordinator of The Lion’s Roar Lorraine Peppo, far left, mother Shernita Green, center left, and mentor and Director of Student Publications Dr. Lee Lind, far right. File Photo/The Lion’s Roar

The Lion’s Roar | NEWS

Miss Louisiana 2018

PAGE 10 | JULY 10, 2018

Courtesy of Alyssa Larose Top middle, Randon performs her classical ballet en point routine to “Carmen.” Top right, Larose models her custom-made Tony Bowles dress for the evening wear portion of the competition. Middle far left, Larose performs the closing number for the Miss Louisiana Pageant. Middle left, Gary introduces herself in the opening of the pageant. Middle right, Burkett and Randon dance to “One Foot in Front of the Other” performed live by Miss Louisiana 1990 Linnea Fayard-Allen and the Miss Louisiana Band. Middle far right, current Miss SLU Larose and former Miss SLUs Gary and Randon pose in a crowning photo. Bottom far left, Burkett presents her evening wear for the competition. Bottom left, Gary poses with her Fleur de Lis Princesses after modelng her evening gown. Bottom right, Randon displays her swimsuit for Lifestyle Fitness, which she won in her class. ANNIE GOODMAN/THE LION’S ROAR

Miss Louisiana 2018 Holli’ Conway and Miss Shreveport Emily Randon clench hands prior to the announcement of the winner during Miss Louisiana. The pageant challenged women like Conway and Randon to compete in categories that measured their confidence, style, intelligence and talent. ANNIE GOODMAN/THE LION’S ROAR

Top left, Miss Southern Oaks Kristyn Gary, Miss Southeastern Louisiana University Alyssa Larose, Miss Shreveport Emily Randon and Miss Benton Chloe Burkett support their university with a traditional Lion Up pose. COURTESY OF ALYSSA LAROSE