Issuu

’ 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

July 11, 2017

Gary and Randon maintain Lion Pride LARSHELL GREEN Editor-in-Chief

Both Miss Southeastern 2017 Kristyn Gary and alumna Miss Southeastern 2015 Emily Randon gained accreditation during the 2017 Miss Louisiana Pageant. Gary and Randon competed in Monroe, Louisiana for the pageant from June 22-24. Gary was the recipient of the Women in Education Scholarship and received a $500 scholarship for competing in the pageant. Gary feels that she discovered more about who she was and who she wants to be as a person while gaining a newfound knowledge of community service. “I don’t think that I would change anything about the pageant,” said Gary. “It was definitely a learning experience for me, and I am thankful for the lessons I learned, the people I met and the overall experience.” With a commitment to necessary rehearsals and appearances, Gary admits that she and other contestants were not able to get much sleep in preparation for their respected categories. “The pageant took a lot of physical and mental preparation,” said Gary. “I had to make sure that I had the necessary wardrobe, prepare myself for the interview, practice my talent and practice for every other part.” The Evening Gown portion of the competition was Gary’s favorite category of the pageant. “My favorite category was probably Evening Gown,” said Gary. “I loved being able to show my calm and elegant side. I also loved that my FleurDe-Lis Princesses were able to come on stage with me for Evening Gown.” Randon recently graduated from the university in May 2016 with a degree in kinesiology and a concentration in exercise science. During this year’s competition, Randon received the Preliminary Lifestyle and

Sophomore early childhood education major and current Miss Southeastern Kristyn Gary received the Women in Education Scholarship. Alumna and former Miss Southeastern 2015 Emily Randon advanced as 2nd runner up in the 2017 Miss Louisiana Pageant. Although neither woman won the crown, they plan to compete next year and take the lessons and experiences that they gained this year into consideration. Courtesy of Steven Palowsky Photography, LLC. Fitness Award, was named a Science, Technology, Engineering and Math semifinalist and ended the pageant as 2nd runner up to newly crowned Miss Louisiana Laryssa Bonacquisti. “I am so proud of myself for consistently placing top three at Miss Louisiana each year I have competed,” said Randon. “I am a three time 2nd runner up, and to me, that is a huge accomplishment. I am so thankful.” Randon was eligible to run for Miss Louisiana 2017 after being named as Miss St. Tammany Heritage 2017. In that pageant, she was recognized for winning awards in Lifestyle and Fitness and Talent. Although Randon did not

take home the crown, she gained lessons that she values during her experience. “Just like with any sport or competition, I have learned that you can’t win every time,” said Randon. “Each girl walks away a winner because of everything we have gained in the process. I have gained friendships, memories and skills that will stay with me the rest of my life. That makes me feel like a winner.” The Talent portion proved to be the portion that Randon enjoyed the most and targeted her preparation towards. “I have been a ballerina for over a decade and a ballet teacher in the Hammond area for the past five years,” said Randon. “It is always a goal of

mine to share my love of ballet yet make it entertaining for an audience that may not know anything about ballet or the classical arts. Because talent is worth the most points, I spent much of my time practicing in the dance studio.” Contestants are expected to showcase most of their qualities in a nonverbal way during Miss Louisiana. Although she does not have any regrets about the outcome of the pageant, Randon hopes that the judges recognized her best attributes. “I am a kind, caring, independent and hard working person, and it was a goal of mine to show that to the judges,” said Randon. The 2018 Miss Louisiana Pageant will be Randon’s last

chance to compete because of the Miss America System’s age limit of 24. “I would love the chance to compete for my dream job one last time,” said Randon. Gary enjoyed her overall experience at the competition and hopes to return next year to compete for more scholarships and to make more friends. She was previously unaware of details about the pageant’s dayto-day operations. “I was surprised to find out that the Miss Louisiana Organization is made up of volunteers,” said Gary. “They all generously give up their time to make sure that our experience is as great as possible.” Although Gary’s main focus over the course of the

competition was competing for the title of Miss Louisiana, her birthday was on the last day of the competition. “Our wonderful hostesses got a birthday cake for me and all of the contestants sang happy birthday to me,” said Gary. “They really made my birthday special. My family and I also celebrated after the pageant.” Being Miss Southeastern 2017 has prepared Gary in a variety of ways to compete for a crown on a larger scale than at the university. “I created my platform, raised funds for service projects and began focusing more on current events,” said Gary. “Miss Louisiana does everything that local titleholders do, just on a larger scale.”

Faculty hirings affected by budget Preparing for a storm amid new season ANNIE GOODMAN Staff Reporter

Due to budget cuts over the years, the university has had to be cautious when filling vacancies in staff. “Loss of state operating dollars in past years has strained Southeastern’s budget across the board,” said Erin Cowser, Executive Director of Public and Governmental Affairs. “Every department and facet of the university has endured reductions in resources. We have worked diligently to be good stewards of all resources available. One of the things we’ve done is to be cautious in filling vacancies that occur through retirements and resignations. For faculty vacancies, any request to fill a vacant position has to be justified based on student enrollment and compliance with accreditation standards.” Cowser feels that though the university has lost faculty, it has maintained valuable faculty members. “All departments and programs are affected by the challenges presented by the budget cuts endured over the last several years,” said Cowser. “All programs have faced challenges in terms of retaining existing faculty and recruiting new faculty. We are very fortunate to have retained some of our most qualified and experienced faculty. Likewise, we are fortunate to have been able to recruit some well-qualified new faculty. Those programs where the supply and demand inequity is greatest are most challenged in terms of recruitment and retention. For example, computer science is an academic program that has experienced growing demand for qualified faculty. As a result, faculty in that discipline are difficult to

recruit and retain.” This year, however, the legislative session ended without any cuts to higher education funding. “Higher education in Louisiana has been able to let out a collective sigh of relief this year,” said Cowser. “This is one of the first years in many that we are not having to try to address reductions in state support. We are concerned, however, that any reprieve may be temporary given the ‘fiscal cliff’ next year.” Cowser believes things are starting to move in the right direction for higher education but there is still uncertainty. “Our funding has been stabilized but at such a level that Louisiana institutions remain funded at one of the lowest levels in the entire country,” said Cowser. “Although budget stability is essential, and we are extremely grateful to the governor and many legislators for achieving that outcome in this recent legislative session, one of the first obstacles we’ll encounter going forward is the fiscal cliff that looms in the 2017-18 fiscal year when temporary sales tax measures expire leaving a gaping $1.2 billion hole in the budget.” Cowser remains hopeful for the future of higher education. “Even a temporary break in the seemingly endless budget cut monotony is welcome,” said Cowser. “Our University of Louisiana System President Jim Henderson summed up our current position well. ‘While we still trail our competitors in terms of resources per student, the stability in state funding and the fulfillment of the TOPS promise position our universities to deliver an even greater return on investment,’ he said. ‘Through this work, we laid a foundation upon which a stronger Louisiana will be built.’”

Weather

Tuesday H 90 L 73

ZACHARY ARAKI Staff Reporter

Students and faculty are encouraged to take the necessary safety precautions for the hurricane season. The Atlantic hurricane season ranges from June 1 to Nov. 30. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration National Hurricane Center, the season peaks around Sept. 10. While Louisiana is subject to severe storms, such as Hurricane Katrina and the 2016 flood, the university is not as vulnerable as coastal communities. “The effects are relative to the veracity of the weather situation,” said Executive Director of Public and Governmental Affairs Erin Cowser. “Sometimes there are limbs that blow down and affiliated power outages. Thankfully, Southeastern is situated far enough inland that storm surge is not a threat.” The first step to storm safety is being informed. Students and faculty are urged to register with the emergency alert system. Instructions for signing up can be found by clicking the “Emergency Alert Sign Up” link at the bottom of the university website. “It’s wise to have a hurricane

Index

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

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

kit packed with essentials and important paper documents,” said Cowser. “Backing up important electronic data is always a smart move. You should make a communications plan with family for after the storm. It’s recommended that an outof-state contact be set in case communication within the state is difficult if not impossible. The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security has a nice app, Get a Game Plan. It’s free, and it can walk you through steps you can take for your personal safety and hurricane preparations.” Emergency guides are available online. In cases of emergency, the university has over 40 Code Blue emergency phones around campus and speakers that can broadcast sirens or voice alerts. “The protocols and responsibilities are outlined in the university’s Emergency Management Plan,” said Cowser. “The mission of this plan is to protect the health and safety of the campus community by coordinating disaster preparedness planning, risk mitigation, response, emergency communication systems and incident recovery activities.” The University Police Department, the University

Counseling Center and other departments on campus are available to assist in the case of emergencies. Annette Baldwin, a counselor at the Counseling Center since 2003, has seen students come in after a crisis and try to adjust. “When you think of storms like last year or storms like Katrina, a lot of times your community is disrupted,” said Baldwin. “We’ve had families that have had to relocate, so those typical family traditions like if you always got together with your family and extended family, well, now they don’t live locally anymore. A lot of times people have to go through a grief process depending on their variables of what they lost and then again recreating or re-adjusting to a new normal.” Preparation and response plans are reviewed for any necessary modifications based on past storms. “While countless properties throughout the region suffered from last year’s flooding, Southeastern’s buildings were spared,” said Cowser. “Our Emergency Management Plan and MOU’s with partner agencies in the aftermath of severe weather are reviewed annually for any needed updates, tweaks or additions.”

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Page 2 | July 11, 2017

The Lion’s Roar | Campus Life

Twelve Oaks makes space for new campus memories ZACHARY ARAKI Staff Reporter

Twelve Oaks leaves campus with memories and hope for the future. The removal of the Twelve Oaks building is part of a larger project crafted to answer the demand for more housing. A new Twelve Oaks Hall and a new Ascension Hall will replace Zachary Taylor Hall and add more beds. Demolition of Twelve Oaks started July 10. “I think this is a very positive project for the university as a whole,” said Director of Facility Planning Kenneth Howe. “One of the main things is that since we built the Union, one of the number one entrance ways, especially for visitors, onto our campus is Texas Avenue now. When we do all this with the new buildings here and Zachary Taylor is gone and with Cayman and Twelve Oaks gone, it is just gonna completely change that whole corridor. I think it’s gonna be a great, inviting area for recruitment, retention and community pride.” The residence halls will be built across the street from Twelve Oaks. Parking and gathering areas for students will replace Twelve Oaks. The residence halls are due to be moved into Fall 2018. “The full project encompasses several phases and includes the development of green space, configuration of parking lots, paving of walkways and the addition of adjacent plaza areas in addition to construction of two new residence halls,” said Executive Director of Public and Governmental Affairs Erin Cowser. The entire project surpasses the removal of Twelve Oaks. Before the implementation of the plan, studies and analyses were conducted to evaluate this stage of the process. “The decision to remove Twelve Oaks was a part of the master plan that was driven by the completion of the Student Union,” said Cowser. “A part of the Student Union renovation and expansion project included creating additional event space and also relocating our food service operations on campus. As such, the facility has not been utilized for the last couple of years. In addition, the facility had exceeded its useful life and had significant maintenance issues that would make repair and renovation costprohibitive.” Construction is not expected to impede passing

The removal of Twelve Oaks is one part of a multi-phase project to introduce new housing on campus. The ballroom in the new Student Union replaced Twelve Oak’s function as a venue for events. This and maintenance costs rendered Twelve Oaks obsolete and due to be replaced. Memories have been formed at Twelve Oaks events including weddings and awards ceremonies. Hope rather than grief follows the removal of Twelve Oaks. Zachary Araki/The Lion’s Roar traffic. Any construction that would affect traffic will be scheduled on low activity days such as the weekends. Parking spots taken up by the halls will be replaced during construction. “We’re taking up a number of parking spots where the buildings are being built, but when we finish with all the new parking spaces, which will be in the next academic year, we will have almost exactly the same number of parking spaces we had before we started the construction, within two spaces,” said Howe. Memories have been formed during the several events held at Twelve Oaks. “Twelve Oaks was great for its purpose at its time,” said Howe. “I know a lot of people have some great memories of Twelve Oaks. The new ballroom was built on the third floor of the new union which doesn’t have all the columns and the different things every few feet. It has a much taller ceiling. Almost all of the events that were once held at Twelve Oaks are now in the new

union including the resident food service. They used to have the cafeteria. Now, the Mane Dish moved over to the new union. It was a building that really all of its main aspects have been replaced. The building itself is in grave need of repair, very expensive repair. I’m glad I have the memories there, but I understand it’s kind of reached its point.” Ashley Royerre Talley, a university graduate and speech-language pathologist in Memphis, Tennessee, recalls attending the 2011 annual Southeastern Louisiana University Alumni Awards Evening at Twelve Oaks. “The recipients of the Alumni Scholarship were invited to attend, and I was one of them,” said Talley. “I had a great experience at this event. My parents were there. They are alumni, so they enjoyed seeing old friends and colleagues. In addition, I enjoyed listening to the Alumni of the Year speak as well as President Crain. Twelve Oaks was a nice, big open space to celebrate the

accomplishments of Southeastern alumni and students.” Christy Nuccio, a front office supervisor at the North Oaks Pediatric Clinic, got married at Twelve Oaks in 2007. “I was very surprised and sad to hear that Twelve Oaks was going to leave campus,” said Nuccio. “I am sure that I am only one of many that have forever memories there, but I think everyone would agree that it really was a wonderful place. I guess the saying goes ‘All good things must come to an end.’ Twelve Oaks was definitely a good thing.” Though remembered, Twelve Oaks will not be mourned. Talley sees the project with hopeful eyes. “Although it is sad to see Twelve Oaks leave Southeastern as we know it, it will be transformed into something new that will better serve Southeastern students and the university as a whole,” said Talley.

New addition to university affiliated social media accounts SARAH HESS Staff Reporter

One social media account is offering a new perspective of members of the lion nation. Senior business marketing major Chase Cangelosi created the Instagram account Humans of Southeastern that took inspiration from the Humans of New York Instagram where the content focuses on photographing the community and writing about their life story. The Humans of Southeastern account was started last semester in April and now has over 1,000 followers, depicting students from the university. The idea for the Instagram account first began when Cangelosi bought the new iPhone 7 that included the portrait setting on it’s camera and that is when the aesthetic from the Humans of Southeastern’s Instagram was launched. Cangelosi wanted to create an Instagram that would depict the university student body in an organic, unedited way just as he had seen from the Humans of New York’s account. Cangelosi describes his vision for the Humans of Southeastern’s Cangelosi offers a new perspective of student life on campus with his Instagram Instagram. account Humans of Southeastern. Courtesy of Chase Cangelosi “It’s funny,” said Cangelosi. “If I’m posting a picture of myself on my personal

Instagram, that picture is edited. But, with these pictures, it’s the same concept every time. I’mgoing to take a picture of you, roughly face, shoulders, maybe a little more body. It’s going to be a blurred background. No edit whatsoever. Whatever the phone makes is what you get. Then, I always ask them to caption the picture.” Once he found his Instagram’s branding, Cangelosi then had to find models for his posts. “A lot of them have been my friends who I thought might have a great quote,” said Cangelosi. “Getting the quote is the toughest part in the world. A lot of them have been people who asked me.” Cangelosi feels it might be hard for the Humans of Southestern’s account to gain recognition due to the plethora of campus organizations with their own Instagram accounts such as dining, housing and athletics. “We’re not selling meal plans,” said Cangelosi. “We’re not trying to make people come to our laser tag night. We’re not trying to make people come to our seminar. All we’re doing is giving them a nice, little picture of a student and saying, ‘Go out in school, meet this person and shake their hand. Introduce yourself, and let’s build a

community one person by one.’” To increase flow to his page, Cangelosi seeks out those actively involved in Southeastern’s many Instagram accounts to follow other lions. “It leads to me seeing a bunch of people’s posts and Instagram stories,” said Cangelosi. “People who I have no clue who they are. It’s kind of cool because I feel like I know honestly almost everyone at this school whether I’ve actually met them or not.” Cangelosi feels he is following his passion toward his career in business by operating the Instagram account and encourages everyone to also follow their passions. “Everyone deserves to be themselves,” said Cangelosi. “You have a unique quality that other people want to know about whether you know it or not, and if you ever feel the need to start something of your own, just go for it. Usually, people will respect you more doing something that you’re passionate about.” If interested in running the Humans of Southeastern Instagram, Cangelosi is looking for a freshman or sophomore student to take over the page when he graduates. He also encourages students to send any ideas to improve the Instagram account.

Work and study: Perspectives from student workers on campus job oppurtunities ZACHARY ARAKI Staff Reporter

Students fight the broke college student trope by participating in the work-study program. The benefits of working on campus can exceed a paycheck. Randi Olivier, a graduate communication sciences and disorders major believes a graduate assistant position in Disability Services will help her on the path to becoming a speech-language pathologist. “I actually was a student worker all through my four years in undergrad here as well, and I think it’s extremely convenient to go to classes and as soon as I get off classes, to go to work here,” said Olivier. “It’s also a great experience especially the GA position that I have. I’m getting experience in my field as well as attending classes. A lot of the work that I do for the

university is very applicable to my classwork and coursework.” Working on campus can also be a convenient opportunity for growth. Emily Simeon, a junior health education and promotion major works in the Work-Study Office. “It’s been really helpful,” said Simeon. “I was really shy when I was younger. It’s helped me to be able to speak to people whenever they come in and be able to help them, answering phones and whatnot. It just helps give me an experience of what it’s like to be working in the real world.” Job-seeking students can visit departments on campus, visit the Student Employment Network on the university website and contact offices such as Career Services, Financial Aid or the Center for Student Excellence,” said Simeon. The most common question Simeon receives is how to get

started. “Go around to the different departments and just job hunt basically,” said Simeon. “All departments hire on campus. It’s just a matter of asking whenever they’re looking and making sure that your schedule fits with it. We usually suggest that if you’re looking for an office job to schedule classes either in the morning or the afternoon so you can work either mornings or afternoons cause a lot of jobs on campus are office type.” Nicholas Mayeur, a graduate kinesiology major shared his experience as the facility supervisor at the Pennington. “Definitely getting able to interact with students has been an experience like any other that I’ve had in a job setting,” said Mayeur. “It really has been helpful definitely trying to step into new careers. This has been a great starting point.” Hannah Fork, a junior middle

school special education major started working at the Sims Memorial Library in January. “It’s been a great experience,” said Fork. “All of the coworkers are really nice. It’s nice because it’s on campus, and I don’t have to drive somewhere else. I can go in between classes.” Victoria Arledge, a senior biological sciences major works at the Center for Student Excellence. The work-study program has been convenient for her and her friends. “It’s been my experience that they are really great for workstudy,” said Arledge. “I have lots of friends working different departments, and they’ve all enjoyed it. It gives them a lot of time. It’s easy for them to go to class and then come back to work. They all really like that. A lot of them even have time for another job even with all Nicholas Mayeur, top, and Hannah Fork, bottom, found work on campus for more their classes too, and it works than a paycheck. Advantages of the student-work program can give students an perfectly.” opportunity for growth and job preparation. Zachary Araki/The Lion’s Roar

Opinions | The Lion’s Roar

July 11, 2017 | Page 3

Setting my sights on new goals at The Lion’s Roar Unexpectedly, I got offered the opportunity to do something that I had been dreaming of for the last few years: becoming the Editor-inChief of my university’s paper. I first became involved in this career field in my sophomore year of high school as a staff member of my high school’s yearbook. It wasn’t long before I Larshell Green became an editor there. Editor-in-Chief During my senior project, I knew that it was time to set my sights on greater goals. During an interview about the day in the life of journalists, I spoke to Lil Mirando, editor of Hammond’s Daily Star. She asked me why I wanted to be a journalist. I coyly said, “I have a story that needs to be told.” She politely corrected me and said that the best journalists tell the stories of those without a voice. Ironically, after writing for that paper, I came to my first communication class and met Dr. Joe Mirando, Lil’s husband and one of my mentors who has pushed me from the very first

day I stepped foot in his class. I said all of that to say that there’s no such thing as being given the position of Editor-inChief. I believe that I have earned this opportunity. You work day in and day out in the beginning to earn the position. Later on, you find out how hard you have to work in order to maintain it and carry on your legacy after you’ve left. I hope to inform the campus, local and even national community about who we are as a university and staff. Any news organization can cover events, but I believe that our asset lies in building a personal connection with readers. I hope that the paper will improve as far as layout, diversity, accuracy, organization, content and overall quality. However, the biggest change that I hope to accomplish is not visual but emotional. I hope that whether readers know everything about the university or absolutely nothing, our articles, especially features, register a connection with readers and intrigue them.

In the office, I have the support of Director Dr. Lee E. Lind, Coordinator Lorraine Peppo, Administrative Assistant April Assavedo and my amazing staff. Outside of the office, I have two supportive parents, friends, educators, Press Club members and fellow communication students that I know will cheer me on from the sidelines. Dr. Eric Summers and other administrators on campus have been very supportive of my new role and the paper as a whole for the five semesters that I have been on staff. I’ve had the amazing opportunity to work under four Editor-in-Chiefs as well as a slew of other section editors and senior reporters that have taught me how to be a better journalist and person. I hope to do the same thing for new reporters as a positive leader with great expectations. I’ve witnessed many examples of success and some errors from the past editors and how they handled them with grace and dignity. I can only hope I leave behind a legacy as half as great that I will be proud of.

Has the joke gone too far? The Role of Comedy Comedy gets us to laugh as there are many different styles, techniques and senses of humor playing important roles within how jokes are delivered and received. Laughing with or at something allows audiences to relax for a while and have a good time. Depending on how one likes their comedy, some comedians get us to think while we are laughing Riana Braselman whether it’s because we Staff Reporter relate to the joke somehow, are realizing the absurdity of a situation or so on. However, when does a joke go too far? Where is the line of morality when it comes to comedy? Is there any at all? When attempting to define a moral line in the world of comedy, there are two aspects to address when analyzing satire or jokes. The comedian’s intent with a joke and its effect on individuals in the audience play important key roles when looking at a joke’s purpose. People define their moral line according to how they feel intent and effect play their roles within a joke. For example, on Saturday Night Live’s 40th season finale, Louis C.K. made a joke during his opening monologue involving the topic of child molestation. After his monologue, many people debated whether or not C.K. had “crossed the line.” What was his intent? Should he have taken into consideration morally the possible effect it could have on individual audience members? One side stated that it may have come across as insensitive or triggering to potential audience members who had been molested as a child themselves and that the “effect” of C.K.’s joke may have been possibly too damaging to audience viewers. On the other side of the spectrum, many argued that C.K.’s “intent” of the joke was justified in that he was

trying to prove a point through the comedy, so despite the sensitive nature of the topic, C.K. did not cross any moral line since it served the role of making a commentary about society. Going ahead with these two key elements of comedy, intent and effect, I feel these are two invaluable pieces to the puzzle when trying to define a moral line in comedy. For me personally, I can see the logic of both sides. Running with the “Louis C.K.” example, logically, I can reason that he morally did not cross a line; his intent was not to harm an audience member with his joke. He was simply attempting to get people to think while laughing. On the other hand, I still cannot deny that while watching this bit, I get extremely uncomfortable. I see the potential harm that is within the effect of making the joke; therefore, I am not entirely comfortable in saying the joke is morally right. To me, I think the topics that fall in a grey area in the comedic world are due to relatability. Not all of the time, but often, we laugh at jokes that we can relate to. Comedians commonly hone in on life situations and ideas that the everyday person can relate with. There are countless satirical bits on the aspects of relationships, family, work, school, politics, pop culture and the list could go on. However, we may start to feel uncomfortable when comedians start to shift into the realm of topics we feel may be sensitive to a population that the general public may not be able to directly relate to such as rape, abortion, racism, terrorist attacks and so forth. We know that these topics are potentially a source of great pain to the individuals who have gone through these experiences, and we may be scared of making light of situations that are hardly light at all. Those of us outside

of these populations may become unsure of whether to laugh or shake our heads when 9/11 is mentioned in a comedic bit. We are unsure of its possible “effect” on those who experienced the event. The counterargument is that those who have been through painful situations do not simply own those topics, and they have every right to be offended if they are. However, this does not take the material away from comedians. I agree and disagree with this argument. I think relatability has a much bigger role than often given credit. For example, I recently came across a video on my Facebook news feed where a man with an amputated leg did a comedic bit on his experiences with being physically handicapped. Socially, we feel it’s morally OK that this man was making jokes about his life experiences with being amputated. However, had another comedian made similar jokes about amputees, I suspect many people would have not been morally OK with it at all. The same goes for many other subjects such as how comedians in minority groups are given more freedom to deliver jokes about racism and things of th nature. It all comes down to relatability and intent. In the end, my stance on the topic wavers according to the joke. In the world of comedy, a “moral line” may be impossible to define as maybe each comedian has different social permissions to discuss and create jokes about different topics. Personally, what it all comes down to for me is a few criteria. Am I laughing at the joke and why? If I’m not laughing, aside from the fact that it may not be funny, why, and why may I feel uncomfortable with the joke? It may just be I am unsure of how the topic may be affecting those around me or the intent does not justify the punch line at the end of the day.

Dear College

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What topic or issue do you think no one should joke about? “I’d say people with special needs. I think that’s one thing you should never joke about. I think that’s something that’s really important, and instead of making fun of somebody, you should offer to help them.” Kirsten Bourgeois Sophomore, Early Childhood Education “Somebody’s physical appearance. I think that nobody should joke about that.” Deepesh Sigdel Senior, Physics

“The thing that came to my mind was mental illness. People say, ‘Oh, I’m OCD,’ but they’re really not, or ‘Oh, I’m so depressed.’ I think that’s something you shouldn’t joke about like mental illness.” Aesha Magee Junior, Communication Sciences and Disorders “I would say never make fun of someone for something that they can’t control. If somebody has a lot of acne on their face, they can’t hide it.” Cody Saltaformaggio Sophomore, Industrial Technology “I think sexual assault. That’s a main issue for college campuses and just the world in general.” Gabrielle Reynolds Senior, Kinesiology

“I would say any recent tragic events. That’s really nothing to joke about because you have to be aware that other people could be affected by it in any kind of way.” Matthew Dyson Junior, Engineering Technology and Physics

LETTER TO THE EDITOR The demolition of Twelve Oaks and its replacement by two new dormitories is imminent. This presents the university with an opportunity to create a master plan for the external appearance of all future buildings. The first generation buildings exhibited a certain uniform, classic form that never goes out of style. The Depression-era buildings located

on or near Friendship Circle such as McGehee Hall, the music building, the original library, the old science building, even McClimans Hall and Campbell Hall, gave a certain “gravitas” to the appearance of the campus and announced to the world that we were a serious university. Subsequent construction took on the look of whatever architectural

style was trendy at the time of conception. Always utilitarian, often plain and sometimes downright unattractive, their external appearance became totally disconnected from that of the first buildings. We can change that now starting with the Twelve Oaks projects. I totally support making their interiors modern and functional,

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.

but any new buildings, especially those near Friendship Circle, should reflect the sadly abandoned form of their progenitors, even to the point, perhaps, of incorporating the “porte cochère” of the music building, the old library and the President’s residence into the design. - Ronald D. Traylor, Ph.D. Department of History

“The one thing I think people should never joke about is other people’s religion. I know as a Christian, I wouldn’t want somebody to joke about my religion, so I would never joke about somebody else’s.” Raegan Bourgeois Sophomore, Early Childhood Education “In my mind, it would probably be suicide. I don’t think that anybody should joke about that, or if someone makes a joke about it, we should really pay attention and look at that person to make sure that they’re OK.” William Rhodes Graduate Student, Counseling

The Lion’s Roar Staff Editor-in-Chief - Larshell Green Distribution - Jesse Salminen II Office Assistant - Alyssa Larose Administrative Assistant - April Assavedo Coordinator - Lorraine Peppo Director - Dr. Lee E. Lind

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Page 4 | July 11, 2017

The Lion’s Roar | Arts & Entertainment

Music students unify international audiences with vocals

RIANA BRASELMAN Staff Reporter

University students and alumni came together to bring unity through music by traveling across the world. Leaving May 24 and returning on June 2, Southeastern Louisiana University Concert Choir and Alumni toured parts of Europe, performing in four different countries while traveling abroad. “I believe the trip had multiple purposes,” said Brennan Simmons, a senior music major with a concentration in vocal performance. “The main one being to share our gift of singing with the world and communicate through the universal language of music. Another purpose was to give the opportunity for most of the choir to travel outside of the United States and see some of the most beautiful places in the world.” The group started in Vienna, Austria, then visited Budapest, Hungary, and Prague, Czech

Current students and alumni perform pieces of music on stages across Europe, from Vienna, Austria to the small village of Chlumec in the Czech Republic. Students and alumni felt they made deep connections to the international audiences through musical bonds despite cultural and language barriers. Courtesy of Amy Prats Republic. While some returned thought you were and that in some cases, there was a home, others stayed for an people in different countries great age difference between extension to Paris, France. are just like you,” said alumna the two groups. We learned “When you travel outside Amy Prats. “This choir was that no matter how far apart of the United States, you learn very special due to the fact that our ages, we all speak the that you are much smaller we were made up of current universal language of music. and less important than you SLU students and alumni, and It was humbling to witness the

group bond and come together to perform in foreign lands. We became a very unique family. In fact, members have already begun organizing social events because they miss each other.” For Prats, being able to connect with young students in the small village of Chlumec, Czech Republic was one of her favorite experiences. “One of our most memorable performances was in the small town of Chlumec in the Czech Republic,” said Prats. “We shared a cultural exchange experience with school children there. They sang first on the concert program, and then we performed. They even learned the 1985 pop hit ‘We are the World’ and sang it in English. After our joint concert, they hosted us for dinner in their school cafeteria. It was the best meal we had in Europe. The children were so inquisitive and communicated quite well in spite of our language difference. They didn’t want us to leave, and several of the girls ran by our bus as we pulled out of town.” Simmons expressed that

being able to perform in Europe gave him the opportunity to get some insight into his future career. “I loved visiting the opera house in Budapest,” said Simmons. “It really gave me some perspective on my dream of being an opera singer.” Simmons also proposed to his girlfriend while on the trip. “One of my favorite parts was proposing to my girlfriend on our tour bus on our way back to Prague after a concert in Chlumec in front of the entire choir,” said Simmons. “I’m not normally a very romantic person, but when I saw the opportunity, I just could not pass it up. When coming up with the original proposal plans, I was going to try and propose in Paris, it being the ‘City of Love’ and all that. However, things turned out differently. When we were on our way back from our second to last concert, and everyone was sharing their fondest memories of the trip and their favorite experiences,

see EUROPE TRIP, pg. 10

Art panel talks lion pride following the series conclusion led by Dillon Raborn ANNIE GOODMAN Staff Reporter

Hammond Regional Arts Center ended this season’s Let’s Talk: Art series with a discussion with the “Lion Pride” exhibition’s artists. “The event we are speaking of for this LTA event is not actually a lecture but rather a discussion panel between myself as a moderator and the three participating artists of the Hammond Regional Arts Center’s exhibition, ‘Lion Pride,’” said Moderator Dillon Raborn. “The artists are all recent Southeastern fine arts graduates, one of which is pursuing a working career in the field while the other two have recently been accepted into M.F.A. programs in California and Illinois.” Raborn asked the artists various questions about their processes of making tangible art. “The panel will begin with the artists discussing the work they have shown in the exhibition,” said

Raborn. “The topics I intend to bring up after this are varied but revolve around three primary angles to engage in discussions of art and art-making. These are formalities, processes and conceptualizations. The section on processes is intended to allow them to describe the transformation of abstract ideas into realworld labor and an artist’s duty to be absolutely fluid between those two realms.” Raborn is an alumnus of the university who went on to pursue a master’s degree. “I don’t have much to say in images, so I instead deliberately chose a long-suffering career path which allows me to speak about and through the work of others,” said Raborn. “As such, I graduated with a Fine Arts B.A. from Southeastern in spring 2015 with an art history concentration, and this May graduated from Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey, with an M.A. in the same field. I’m home for a short break but eventually intend to finish my terminal degree in the field.”

Studio gets renovations under new leader ANNIE GOODMAN Staff Reporter

Under new direction, the dance program is undergoing numerous changes. “As Southeastern pushes to advance our dance program to the current trends and accreditation of the ACDA, we will be revising our curriculum over time to reflect this,” said Director of Dance Keith “Skip” Costa. Costa sees more DNC 350: Special Topic courses being offered in the future to meet the demand of specialized courses needed to re-enforce the contemporary dance focus of the dance program through aspects of technique, choreography and performance. “Possible courses to arrive in the future are Aerial Dance I & II, Dance as Academic Research, Music for Dancers and additional, very-needed DPP performance courses that will be offered each term for a broader perspective on research and performance,” said Costa. Costa has received funding to begin renovating the dance studio. “Due to several technological grants received through Southeastern, I have been able to gain $47,000 in funding to begin to put our dance studio at the level of national standards for university dance training and education,” said Costa. “We still have $55,000 more to go, so currently, we have met our halfway goal.” With these grants, Costa has already begun renovations. “Our immediate renovations going on this summer are a new sound system, new wall mirrors, new painted black walls, new circuit breaker to support our future theatrical lighting grant and the installation of our incredible new Harlequin Marley Floor,” said Costa.

Costa has more renovations planned for the future. Costa said, “The next phase of our renovation will include a new theatrical lighting system and light board, black curtain drapes to frame the space and sound proofing of the room so that it can be a professional black box dance theatre for the exclusivity of dance as an academic field of study and research here at Southeastern which has been going on since the 1940s and also a reason for the need of this renovation.” To raise the funds they need, Costa will be implementing an activity fee. “We will also begin offering a low-cost masterclass fee once a semester for our Southeastern students to participate in a two hour masterclass by various touring artists and a low-cost performance fee to show work in our informal studio concert,” said Costa. Costa offers chances for students to audition for, view and present dances throughout each semester in the dance program. Costa said, “All Southeastern students will have numerous opportunities for auditions, to view our main stage dance concerts each semester in Vonnie Borden Theatre, to

present their dance research in various outlets on campus and off campus at our 2018 ACDA Regional Conference at Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, LA, and to perform their own works in our new informal concert in dance studio each semester for all areas of the performing arts and exciting new courses just to name a few.” Costa hopes to advance the field of dance at the university further in the future as well. Costa said, “Over time, I hope to bring back the BA in dance or help create a BA in the Performance with a dance major concentration, establish our national dance chapter of Chi Tau Epsilon fraternity, continue to bring student and faculty work for adjudication at ACDA at both the regional and national conferences at the Kennedy Center, join the National Dance Education Organization as an institution, try to hire a few more part-time lecturers in dance, continue to provide valuable opportunities and training to our dance students for successful, immediate careers after graduation or the continuation onto pursuing their MA, MFA or Ph.D. in dance or movement studies.”

The dance studio has begun renovations with newly acquired grants. Director of Dance Keith “Skip” Costa plans to further renovate. Annie Goodman/The Lion’s Roar

Raborn will be giving a lecture as part of next year’s Let’s Talk: Art series in September. “The September lecture will be based on a seminar paper I constructed in the fall semester of 2016 while I was at Rutgers,” said Raborn. “The lecture will be about iconographic appropriation in Italian Baroque painting, specifically within the work of Valentin de Boulogne, a French caravaggisti living in Rome in the early 17th century.” Raborn feels the Let’s Talk: Art series is something special that people should treasure. “I hope they cherish the opportunity to experience the richness of a university-caliber forum without the necessity of being tested on the material weeks later,”said Raborn. “Also, it’s free. Given the small scale of the various communities along the Northshore, there are not many outlets for art criticism or public access to ongoing scholarship in the fields of art and art history. The LTA lecture series provides precisely that outlet, and it ought to be cherished.”

Dillon Raborn moderated the June Let’s Talk: Art series featuring the “Lion Pride” exhibit’s artists. File Photo/The Lion’s Roar

Arts & Entertainment | The Lion’s Roar

July 11, 2017 | Page 5

Channel spins horror series

ANNIE GOODMAN Staff Reporter

Coming soon to the Southeastern Channel will be a supernatural horror series titled “Darkstalkers.” “‘Darkstalkers’ is a new scripted TV show that is produced by the Southeastern Channel,” said Jeremy Gaines, a senior communication major. “It follows Eric, an immortal demon hunter. He heads back home to Louisiana to track down a powerful demon. With the help of his newly acquired teammates, Cam, Samantha and Angelo, they fight off the wickedness that has come to Hammond.” Gaines bred the idea and is leading the production under the direction of Rick Settoon, the general manager of the Southeastern Channel. “I’ve been wanting to work at the channel since I’ve arrived at SLU,” said Gaines. “I wanted to improve on my editing, but even The Southeastern Channel is creating a horror entertainment series expected to air in the fall called “Darkstalkers.” The project was more, I wanted to learn more about thought up by senior communication major Jeremy Gaines who is also leading the production. çourtesy of Jeremy Gaines the behind-the-camera work. I’ve

dabbled in the film industry, and I wanted to see if I could learn more. I spoke with the GM of the Southeastern Channel, Mr. Rick Settoon and told him about this project I wanted to develop outside of school. He introduced the idea of actually producing it through the channel. The majority of the production team is made up of very talented individuals who work or volunteer at the channel.” “Darkstalkers” will be the first entertainment series of its kind for the channel. “Southeastern does not have a dedicated film and television department,” said Gaines. “We do have the SLU Channel, but the channel is known for developing media journalism. Whether it’s sports or TV news reporting, the channel does it all. Some students have produced short films, but our team is taking the extra step forward with the actual development of an episodic TV series.” Filming and production have already begun and is expected to air beginning in the fall. “I want to say early fall 2017,”

said Gaines. “I asked Mr. Rick to allow me to shoot a teaser that would give him an idea of what the show would be like and allow him to see our team’s capabilities. From there, we’ve been on a roll shooting actual episodes.” Gaines and fellow students are in charge of each aspect of production. “Pretty much the same as bigger productions,” said Gaines. “We are just working on a smaller scale. We write our scripts, have team meetings, audition, location scout, table reads, work with cast and crew schedules, film and finally edit. We’ll have something soon to show everyone, and we hope you all enjoy it.” Gaines hopes the series will foster pride in the students of the university. “Ultimately, we want this to be a show that everyone can get into, but preferably our fellow SLU students,” said Gaines. “To know that fellow SLU students created a project like this, I think that would increase our lion pride.”

Art by Design camp provides life lessons for students and teachers LARSHELL GREEN Editor-in-Chief

A summer art workshop dedicated to educating children in a fun environment also gives university students the opportunity to gain credits and knowledge. The university’s Departments of Visual Arts and Non-Credit Programs recently decided to sponsor The Children’s Art Education Workshop: Art by Design for youths ranging from 5-13. Dr. Kim Finley, associate professor of art education in the visual arts and fine and performing arts department

began instructing the camp alongside her students on July 10 and will stop on July 20 in Clark Hall. Finley has been in charge of the camp for almost 28 years but believes that the camp has probably existed since the 1970s. Although one of the main goals for Art by Design is to provide a fun environment for the children involved, it creates a learning environment for both students and teachers. “It is the direct experience for the course Art 371,” said Finley. “Art for the Elementary Teacher is a required

course for all Early Childhood and K- 5 Education majors.” Senior early childhood education major April Mullins states that she hopes Art by Design helps her train for a career in educating children from pre-K to third grade while giving back to southeast Louisiana’s community. “I will enjoy educating and helping the students during the art camp by facilitating different art experiences each day,” said Mullins. “I cannot wait to facilitate their learning, engage the students’ creativity and experience their own designs all while learning about different art cultures.”

Mullins believes that learning about art can be done using many methods. “Art does not necessarily have to be students using 12 different types of glitter and glue or a creating a realistic oil painting inspired by Vincent van Gogh,” said Mullins. “Art integration can be as easy as using art materials, songs, plays and even poems in the classroom to help students learn in their own creative way by making learning relevant in their lives.” Finley believes that a knowledge and appreciation for art can have a positive impact on children and adults futures. “Art is and should be an important part

of all of our lives,” said Finley. Finley explained that although Art 371 is an introductory course for non-visual art majors, her expectations for what her students can learn by being instructors spans beyond traditional art education. “I would like to think that this course builds the foundations for thinking about art versus craft in a new way as it would play out in the elementary school classroom,” said Finley. “It guides my students towards the use of their own imagination, creativity and productivity in the arts with an eye towards their own future elementary classrooms.”

Red, White & Brew celebrates five years of success, growth and customer service ZACHARY ARAKI Staff Reporter

The Red, White & Brew celebrates five years of success and growth. Todd Delaune purchased the brewery in June 2012 and has kept it running for the past five years. From the beginning, the business did well. “We came in and made some changes to take advantage of the market’s demands, meaning craft beer was becoming very popular at that time,” said Delaune. “There were some grocery store brands of wines that we discontinued, clearanced out and brought in more smaller, boutique, less-known labels. As a result of that, we actually quadrupled our business in the last five years since we bought it.” The most recent change is an extension of the business by opening a cigar shop at 206 E. Thomas. Construction is projected to finish within the next two months. The business is a response to the success of cigars at the Red, White & Brew. “We’re gonna go with a full-scale cigar shop and have about 300

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Keep an open mind about a suggestion you see as unworkable. Give it a chance to prove itself one way or another. The results could surprise both supporters and detractors. TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) News about an upcoming venture causes you to make some lastminute adjustments in your plans. But the extra work will pay off, as you come to learn more about the potential benefits opening up. GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) A more positive aspect grows out of your determination to reach your immediate goals. Continue to keep your focus sharp and on target by steering clear of petty quarrels and other pesky problems. CANCER (June 21 to July 22) By acting as a voice of reason, you can avoid adding to an already turbulent situation. You might have to shout over the tumult, but your words ultimately will be heard and heeded. LEO (July 23 to August 22) The possibility of a new acquisition always makes those Leonine eyes light up. But be careful that what you see is what you want. Appearances often can be deceiving. VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) No matter how much you might feel that you’re in the right, resist saying anything that could reignite a still-unresolved situation. Let the

matter drop, and move on. (September 23 LIBRA to October 22) Help with a personal problem comes from an unexpected source. You also find workplace pressures easing. Use this period of calm to restore your spent energies. SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) You might have to share the credit for that project you’re working on. But there’ll be enough credit to go around, and your efforts will be recognized and rewarded. SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Details need to be dealt with before you can move on to another area. Make sure you don’t leave any loose ends that could later cause everything to unravel. (December CAPRICORN 22 to January 19) News about a change in the workplace carries with it a challenge you could find difficult to resist. Check it out. It could be what you’ve been waiting for. AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Allowing your artistic nature full expression will help restore your spirits and will put you in the mood to take on that new career challenge. A Libra creates excitement. PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Expect to happily plunge right into a hectic social whirl starting at week’s end. Your aspects favor new friendships as well as the strengthening of old relationships. BORN THIS WEEK: Like St. Patrick (who was also born this week), your spiritual strength is an inspiration to others.

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Anstiss describes the benefits he obtained from the university that has prepared him for the professional-level tours. “The main lesson I learned is no matter what you’re doing, always put a hundred percent effort into it,” said Anstiss. “Always give back what you put in, and you should always be thankful for what you’re given.” The coaches and athletic staff at the university strive not just to make athletes qualified to play in the big leagues, but they are here to instill life lessons to produce well-rounded men that are also qualified to compete at a national level. Narro explains how their program based around shaping the individual as a whole and not just working on golf game has set their program apart from others. “I would say that we definitely provide an environment to get better,” said Narro. “We encourage dreaming about playing golf professionally while we’re in college, and we definitely work hard and dedicate ourselves to what we’re doing. If you can’t do that then you don’t have a chance.” Anstiss also describes some of his highlights from his career, how the golf circuit in New Zealand differs from the U.S and how this was able to help better his golf career by coming to play and learn at the university. Anstiss said, “Starting off with playing in the regional NCAA Originals in 2015. That was probably one of my main highlights. The Southland Conference last year that was definitely a highlight. Just being on a team with guys who are passionate about golf and working towards the same goal. Coming to Southeastern helped me improve my game because we don’t really have college sports back home. There are not many opportunities to play golf on a team especially all year round, and it’s also hard to combine education and sports back home because we don’t have a college sports system. That was one difference coming over here and combing the two quite well.” While Anstiss makes his way to the professional league, he thanks those from the lion nation and his coaching staff who were with him in the beginning of his career. “I can’t thank them enough for all their time, effort and support people have given me,” said Anstiss. “It really means a lot to me. Yeah, I can’t really thank people enough for the opportunity I was given.”

BASEBALL

continued from pg. 6 in them to use in their day-to-day lives and Sceroler is taking that mind set to the Major League. “I just want to come out here and show everybody that I came to work,” said Sceroler. “I’m going to work hard, and I have the desire. I just want to put a good mojo on Southeastern and let them know that everybody that comes from Southeastern knows a bunch of good people who work hard and play the game right.” Sceroler is currently in

Minnesota and is uncertain about his future with the Reds of when he will play. Even though Sceroler is officially a professional now, he will always be a part of the lion community that wishes the best success for his baseball career. “I just want to thank all the lion nation for my three years at Southeastern,” said Sceroler. “It’s been the best three years of my life, and I learned a lot there. I thank all the great people there. To all the baseball players now, if you got it, keep working and don’t stop till you reach your goal.”

Page 8 | July 11, 2017

The Lion’s Roar | News

More housing options to be added to campus Beloved faculty member JONATHAN RHODES

Soutullo remembered by enrollment colleagues

Staff Reporter

The university has started construction for two new housing options that is expected to be finished by fall of 2018. The decision to build more housing options was made due to the size of the waitlist for housing each fall semester. A market research firm was asked by the university to find out what the housing needs are and how to meet student demands. “Based on the outcome of that study, it was determined that there was a gap in room inventory versus demand,” said Executive Director of Public and Governmental Affairs Erin Cowser. “In addition, an older facility, Zachary Taylor Hall, has remained online but does not provide students with the experience or amenities they have come to expect and has become very costly to operate due to the age of the facility and maintenance needs.” The new housing options will not be similar to the dorms already on campus but will be up to date, giving students better access to the technology that will make living on campus a much easier option without having to worry about out-of-date dorm rooms. “It is our hope that this project will assist in providing all students living on campus with modern, tech-friendly living spaces,” said Vice President for Administration and Finance Sam Domiano. Due to heavy cuts to higher education from the state government, the funds necessary to pay for this project are coming out of pocket for the university through self generated funds not state money. “The approximate $36 million undertaking is being funded as a third party financing project through University Facilities, Inc., an affiliate organization of the university,” said

ANNIE GOODMAN Staff Reporter

New housing options are coming to the university and the construction for the new buildings is underway. These new facilities will be placed where Twelve Oaks used to be. Jonathan Rhodes/The Lion’s Roar Cowser. “Bonds are sold to secure funds with rental fees and other housing and auxiliary revenues used to secure the debt.” Because of the construction to build these two new housing facilities, the available parking spaces on campus will reduce for the time being. More parking will be added along with the facilities once they are finished. “The gravel lot along Texas Avenue will be temporarily unavailable during construction,” said Cowser. “The full construction project includes re-configuration and paving of the parking lot located on Railroad Avenue. Students are encouraged to utilize the ample parking available daily in the parking garage at Strawberry Stadium.” The housing facilities will include a hybrid geothermal system for heating and cooling and

will have quiet study rooms and multipurpose spaces for classes and social events. The north side of the building will have a retail food venue. Wireless cards will be used to get in and out of the facilities instead of keys. Adjacent plaza areas and walkways will also be constructed with the facilities. Zachary Taylor Hall will be removed from campus once the construction of the new facilities is finished. “The four-story buildings will feature 556 beds available in a mix of shared double and private double semi-suites,” said Cowser. “Zachary Taylor Hall, which depending on double occupancy, houses between 250 to 260 students, will remain in use until the completion of construction of the two new residence halls.”

From the Jacmel Inn kitchen to financial world ZACHARY ARAKI Staff Reporter

Jacmel Inn celebrates 40 years with the Hammond Regional Arts Center’s 20th annual Culinary Arts Series. The July 10 dinner was held at the Alack Culinary Equipment & Supplies Superstore. Joshua Garic, the original chef, was unavailable due to a time conflict. Former Jacmel Inn chef Doyle Orlando took his place. “We’re really looking forward to this installation of the Culinary Arts Series,” said HRAC Media Coordinator Tara Bennett. “It was a natural fit for us to collaborate and work together to bring Hammond a dinner that recognizes the city’s culinary history.” Orlando last participated in the Culinary Arts Series in 2012. The July dinner will be a brief return to professional cooking. “I still love to cook and part of my job now is I do a lot of presentations, so it kind of bonds something I love doing, cooking and presentations,” said Orlando. “Even when I was a chef, I did quite a few presentations or cooking demonstrations. It’s nice to go give back and see a bunch of people that I used to see at the restaurant a lot. I’m actually excited about it.”

Orlando left Jacmel to work for Edward Jones in 2015. “My idea was owning my own restaurant, building a business or just being involved in the whole restaurant industry, maybe getting out of the kitchen and going to more of a management side or corporate side,” said Orlando. “What prompted me to make the change from culinary back to strictly business was once I had kids, needing to be off nights, weekends and holidays became important. Working as a chef, I couldn’t do it anymore. I needed to be home with my kids and my wife.” Orlando entered the culinary world as a way to pay through college. After realizing his love for cooking and graduating from the university with a business degree, he attended the Culinary Institute of America. “I didn’t really have a clue what I wanted to do, and I fell into the restaurant just because I needed a job,” said Orlando. “I learned that I just like being busy. I like working. I just have to have something to do. Restaurant and cooking offered that to me. There’s always something new to learn, always something to do, and it just fit my speed.” Working at Jacmel Inn helped prepare Orlando for his current job.

Doyle Orlando, former Jacmel Inn chef, entered the culinary realm as a college job. After finding he enjoyed the work, he became a chef at Jacmel Inn. In 2015, he moved on to Edward Jones. The 2017 Culinary Arts Series will be a brief return to the professional culinary scene. Zachary Araki/The Lion’s Roar “When I worked as a chef, I basically ran my own business,” said Orlando. “I ran a kitchen, from controlling costs to hiring staff, training staff, management, making improvements, setting goals and achieving those goals, working with a budget, building a business and approving that business to be successful, and I feel like over nine years there, we climbed a slow ladder. We eventually got to be really efficient. We got to the best we could be.” Orlando’s love for cooking

continues past his culinary career. His favorite thing to cook was fish. “There’s always a new fish out there, never eaten before, and there’s an opportunity to bring it in, learn about its texture and qualities of the meat that it is and learning how to cook it, how to pair it with something,” said Orlando. “Fish was always ever changing.” Tickets are still available for the last Culinary Arts Series “Coming Home” dinner that will be taking place on Sept. 11.

Student teacher honored for skills and dedication

Paige Imbraguglio RIANA BRASELMAN Staff Reporter

The university’s College of Education highlighted a student teacher that exemplified dedication to the skills and values held within their field of work. Elementary student teacher Paige Imbraguglio was awarded the Outstanding Elementary Education Student Teacher Award, honoring her hard work and enthusiasm. “The purpose of receiving the Outstanding Elementary Student Teacher Award was to demonstrate my ability to plan an appropriate sequence of instruction based on a unit preassessment, five lesson plans for the week, formative and summative data that documented student learning and a reflection on student achievement and possible changes in teaching that might have impacted student learning better,” said Imbraguglio. “In order to even run

for the Outstanding Elementary Student Teacher Award, I first had to be nominated by my university supervisor. After being nominated, I had to submit an autobiography, create a week long unit, submit a unit assessment plan, submit a videotape of me teaching one of my lessons and submit a reflection of my teaching.” Imbraguglio feels her role as a teacher is not only to be an instructor but also a guide for students to be well-rounded individuals. “My role as a teacher is to strive to create a secure, engaging and interactive environment where my students can grow and mature emotionally, physically and socially,” said Imbraguglio. “My ultimate goal is to provide all students with a positive classroom community so that each student is valued and respected. My students will know that it is OK to make mistakes, be creative and use their imagination. I will be a strong role model for my students by being the best person I can be. Every child comes into a class with hopes and dreams of becoming something great, and as their teacher, it is my job to get them there.” Imbraguglio has an extensive resume in working with young students providing her with the skills and experiences which she feels have assisted her in being able to better work with children in the classroom. “I have been around children my whole life,” said Imbraguglio. “I started babysitting when I was 13 years old. When I was a freshman in

college, I started working at a Bright Horizons Family Solutions, which is the daycare at North Oaks Hospital. I was also a yearlong Residency Pilot Program student teacher in a third grade Reading and English classroom at O.W. Dillon Leadership Academy. At my school site, I assisted with the yoga club and attended faculty meetings, parent conferences, IEP meetings and professional developments. I also taught art in the after school program to third, fourth, fifth and sixth graders. Being a member of the Southern Early Childhood Association, Louisiana Early Childhood Association and Student-led Early Childhood Association also helped lead me to receiving the award.” Assistant Professor Dr. Debra Hailey expresses that she has personally witnessed Imbraguglio’s positivity and willingness to learn and how these qualities within Imbraguglio have aided her in being successful. “I have seen many indications of dedication to her chosen profession, but one of the things that stands out most for me is her willingness to take advantage of every opportunity for learning,” said Hailey. “I think that excitement and exuberance are two qualities that allow her to excel in early childhood education. Many times I have heard her say, ‘Let’s do it’ or ‘I am up for it.’ ‘What do we need to do to make that happen?’ She is a ready, willing, positive

see PAIGE IMBRAGUGLIO, pg. 10

At age 66, Dr. Stephen Soutullo passed away after investing many years to the university. “A few words could not possibly sum up what this man has done for Southeastern Louisiana University and the hundreds of people who were fortunate to have known him,” said Paulette Poche, Director of Records and Registration. “Steve Soutullo was a supervisor, a mentor and a friend to me as he was to so many. He always welcomed me and others as we approached his office door with a warm smile and a greeting of, ‘Come on in. How can I help?’” Soutullo worked in various roles in Enrollment Services beginning in 1992 until he retired in 2010 returning in 2014 as a consultant. “I had the privilege of meeting Steve in the 90s when I began working on my MBA and held a graduate assistantship in Student Affairs,” said Sam Domiano, Vice President for Administration and Finance. “However, I worked most closely with him when I began serving in the role of Director of Admissions and Financial Aid in 2001 which reported to Steve directly as he was serving as Assistant Vice President for Enrollment Management at the time. Steve and I established a great working relationship and friendship that remained strong ever since.” Colleagues note how generous Soutullo was with his knowledge and experience. “Although Steve was involved in many projects, he always made time to answer questions or listen to my thoughts,” said Poche. “Steve gave that gift of his knowledge and caring to all, no matter who you were, student, faculty or staff. He wanted the best for everyone involved and for the student’s journey to be able to transition from admission to graduation as smooth and as wonderful as possible.” Soutullo was a core part of the university as Assistant Vice President of Enrollment Management from 2007 to 2010. “Steve’s role was so important because it was the lifeline of the university as it was a lead position focused on the recruitment and retention of students,” said Domiano. “However, what Steve brought to the position as a person

Stephen Soutullo was a true passion and drive to work with every student in every situation to ensure student success. He was a true advocate for students and would go above and beyond to help students in any situation.” Domiano believes Soutullo leaves behind a legacy of care and wisdom for helping students. “While there are so many lessons learned from Steve, I do believe his true legacy is rooted in his advocacy for students,” said Domiano. “Students were always at the core of every discussion, every decision and every action. A legacy is about passing on the wisdom that you have gained from the many years of experiences, not just work experiences, but life experiences. There is no doubt that is exactly what Steve did, and his legacy will live on for many years to come.” Poche also believes students were a core component of Soutullo’s thoughts and decisions. “The very first student was just as important to him as the very last student,” said Poche. “Steve’s presence always left you filled with encouragement. Stephen Soutullo was genuine. Several legacies could be attributed to Steve, but I think he was very proud of the Joseph and Gloria Soutullo Memorial Scholarship in honor of his parents.” Soutullo, who passed away May 6, will be sincerely missed by his colleagues. “While you can replace people and skill sets, we will not be able to replace Steve,” said Domiano. “What Steve brought was more than about how hard he worked and how good he was at his job, it was about who Steve was as a person. Since his death, I find myself thinking often, ‘What would Steve do in this situation?’ Steve was more than a colleague, he was a friend that will truly be missed.”

News | The Lion’s Roar

July 11, 2017 | Page 9

Local business wins Lantern award for first time since 2010 JONATHAN RHODES Staff Reporter

Gnarly Barley Brewing Co. was awarded the 2017 Lantern Award for its achievement in growth since opening three years ago. They are the first business in Tangipahoa Parish to win the award since 2010. Zac Caramonta, part owner and founder of Gnarly Barley Brewing Co., shared how they felt about earning the honor. “Definitely unexpected,” said Zac Caramonta. “We got contacted by some people who thought we should apply and put in an application. We got a call, and they said, ‘Hey, they are actually gonna choose y’all as one of the people getting an award.’” The Lantern Award is given every year to each of the eight regions of the state to recognize the businesses that have made the most economic growth in the first three years of being open. Both Zac and his wife Cari Caramonta were present at the governor’s mansion to receive the award along with the other winners. Zac Caramonta considers it an honor to win the award and represent the Hammond

community. “This award not only is given for growth, but also, for the commitment to the community,” said Zac Caramonta. “We were the smallest company to be awarded an award, but it is definitely quite an honor. I think Elmer Chocolate was the last one in Tangipahoa Parish to get the award so that’s pretty cool.” The support that Gnarly Barley Brewing Co. gets from the community shows Zac Caramonta the type of impact that the business has had on Hammond. “It’s kind of awesome to see that people have taken to us and jumped on board with what we are doing,” said Zac Caramonta. “To be able to get the community excited in some way, and to help the community, is really cool. At the end of the day, we are just doing what we love. We love beer, and we love craft beer. We get to live out our dream and make it for a living, but we are also able to make our little community proud.” It has always been part of the plan to become the business that Gnarly Barley Brewing Co. is today and to flourish in this small community. “It definitely was in the plan to keep growing and do

what we are doing,” said Zac Caramonta. “Everything is kind of like a blessing. We started this as complete outsiders to the industry, so we have big plans. Every time we’ve succeed it’s like winning the lottery each time. We have been able to stay grounded and appreciate the little victories, so all of these really do mean a lot to us. I’m really fortunate to be here doing what we are doing.” Gnarly Barley Brewing Co. has had a partnership with the university for a couple of years. The business has participated in events and donated beer when possible. In August, Gnarly Barley Brewing Co. will be releasing a university brand beer called “Lion Up.” The beer will contain American wheat ale and the label will be green and gold with spirited lions around it. “We feel honored to partner with the university where we met and graduated,” said Zac Caramonta. “Southeastern is a big part of our lives. We will do an actual event at the brewery so people will be able to see the beer by the cans.” The idea is to produce it only for the fall semesters during football season. However, the Caramonta’s hope to possibly

Zac and Cari Caramonta were awarded the Lantern Award for their growth as a business in the three years since they started the Gnarly Barley Brewing Co. They will introduce a university brand beer on Aug. 5 in time for football season. Jonathan Rhodes/The Lion’s Roar

extend it to be available year round. “Maybe that will change, maybe it will be a whole year thing, but it would be kind of

hectic for our schedule,” said Zac Caramonta. “We’re really excited about it. The can looks great, and the design looks great. My sister-in-law does all of our

graphics, and she does a really good job for us.” Gnarly Barley will unveil the “Lion Up” beer on Aug. 5 at the brewery from 12 to 5 p.m.

Upward Bound hopes to continue 30 year journey of educating and inspiring young students ZACHARY ARAKI Staff Reporter

The Upward Bound Program hosted at the university has helped students reach academic success for 30 years. Upward Bound is a TRIO program funded by five federal grants. It has served students in Jefferson, St. Helena, Tangipahoa and Washington parishes since 1987. Each year, the program is divided into a school year session and a six-week residential summer session. Upward Bound aims to prepare and motivate low-income and first generation high school students to pursue and excel in postsecondary education. “We take the student who, without some help or intervention, may or probably will not go into college,” said Director Ron Abel. “We try to

take away all the barriers they might have. We work with them to get them acclimated to the university environment. We have the residential program here so they feel as comfortable on campus as possible and going to college is not a frightening thing for them. We offer academic classes that strengthen them in high school and keep their GPA up so that they qualify for college admission and receiving TOPS scholarship.” About 450 students actively participate in the program a year. The program also works with thousands of inactive participants to help them navigate college among other services. Sky Amireholnes, a student from Kentwood High Magnet School is in her first year of the program. “It’s better than school,” said Amireholnes. “It still keeps my mind on track because over the summer, your brain kind of shuts down. I’m

learning a lot of stuff in my classes like seven habits and statistics and geometry. I’m gonna be doing geometry next year, so I’ll have a head start in my classes when I get back to school.” Bobby Ray Sell Jr. is earning college credit in the program. He plans to enter the computer science field. “The classes actually helped me prepare for the next year,” said Sell. “They are teaching you lessons that our school might not even get to or that come up later in the year.” The program also includes educational fieldtrips. “My favorite part of the program has to be when we go on our trips like Turtle Cove,” said Amireholnes. “I’ve never been to Turtle Cove. I never knew about it. I probably never would have found out about Turtle Cove.” At the end of the summer, the top 160 students

will go on a trip to Washington D.C. “The trip serves as a motivator for them because they’re high school kids,” said Abel. “We’re telling them join our program, and in ten years, you will have a college degree. We have to give them interim things that motivate them.” Abel has enjoyed seeing the program’s impact on participants. “I get to look back at students who have graduated who make a lot more money than me,” said Abel. “We’ve got lawyers, doctors, nurses, teachers, any walk or field you can think of, we’ve got. When you see that, you feel really great about it. We have to place 75 percent in college, the ones that come through. We usually average about 80 percent who will go to college initially. Of that 80 percent, about 55 percent will go on to complete their degree in six years, which is remarkable.”

As part of the Upward Bound Program, students presented their research on poster boards. The research ranged from lysosomes to airplane safety. Students also constructed towns intended to represent sustainability. For example, some towns used solar panels instead of coal. The towns had selected mayors and engineers. Each year, the Upward Bound Program has about 450 active participating students. The program aims to help students prepare for and excel in secondary education. The program has been helping students since 1987. Zachary Araki/The Lion’s Roar

Excel to care: University graduate prepares for a future in medicine

Kevin Bokun ZACHARY ARAKI Staff Reporter

Support and introspection motivated the 2017 Outstanding Honors Senior of the Year Kevin Bokun to excel. Bokun, who majored in biological sciences and minored in both chemistry and psychology, will attend the

Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in Shreveport this fall. “It was very humbling, and I felt appreciated,” said Bokun. “To me, it’s not just an academic thing because I think both of the other finalists had better grades than I did and were involved in more academic activities than I was. It was really great to hear that my instructors got to see me and that I helped to contribute, not just taking tests and learning the material, in some small way and made it enjoyable to them.” An altruistic desire attracted Bokun to medicine. He channeled that aspiration through other activities including mission trips and a summer children’s camp. “I’ve always been involved with people whether it be working at the tutoring center or through my church,”

BASKETBALL

continued from pg. 7 in the heat of the moment, you don’t notice some things, but when you are off watching, there are things that you can tell them to help them out.” Because of these injuries, there is the possibility that the playing style of the players and their mentality on the court could change. However, Capps embraces the possibility of

said Bokun. “I’ve been involved in children’s ministry, a little bit of youth ministry working with teenagers and young people. I’ve also had the opportunity to visit people in the hospital with a clergyman at our church. We would go. We would talk and pray with people.” Bokun decided a medical career better fit his personality. “I’ve always wanted to help people and interact in a very personal way, and for a long time, I thought about education,” said Bokun. “There was a time when I was an education major, but I didn’t think being a teacher was exactly what I wanted to do.” Bokun felt supported by his family, friends, coworkers and religion. “I have a strong relationship with Jesus, and I pray,” said Bokun. “I

having to change his game and evolve as a player. “I’m always trying to change and evolve my game to become better,” said Capps. “It’s really just patience. With injuries, you can’t rush anything, so I’m just being patient and trusting the process. We’ll see when it’s time for me to play if I feel different, but hopefully, I feel stronger as in different. Changing your game is a good thing sometimes. People try to come back from injuries too quickly and risk getting hurt again. I’m just trying to be patient.”

believe, in addition to my family and friends, that when I pray, God will give me strength and wisdom to help me focus and to succeed in my classes.” Encouragement from faculty pushed Bokun to succeed. Professor of English Dr. Richard Louth had a positive experience with Bokun. “Students like Kevin are rare, and when they come along, they change the whole atmosphere of the class and raise the bar without fanfare for everyone,” said Louth. “I expect him to go a long way in his profession and to be a great doctor, one that people can relate to easily and learn excellence, compassion and truth from.” Bokun found a positive experience despite stress. “Even though I was stressed, I did enjoy learning the material,” said

The Lions were bounced out of the Southland Conference Tournament in the first round. However, with the returning veteran players, there is a chance for the team to not only win the conference title but also make it to the National Collegiate Athletic Association Tournament for the first time since 2005. “I wouldn’t say it was a good thing that our players got hurt,” said Capps. “But it gave the younger guys some experience, so we know what to expect from them when they come off the bench

Bokun “And even though I was nervous through the application process to graduate school, I was excited even to put an application out there because some part of me said I could make it,” . Self-reflection helped Bokun decide on a career path. He offered this advice to fellow students. “You have to feel a sense of reward from your work,” said Bokun. “Otherwise, you’ll be very tired and weary and that’s disheartening and depressing. If you don’t love what you’re doing or you don’t love a large portion of it, you need to find something about it that you love, or you might need to consider trying something else. It has nothing to do with effort, hard work, discipline or intelligence. It’s just, as people, we have to find something that we enjoy.”

this year. As seniors, we have to lead the group, but again, their experience helps and will be key to winning the conference championship and possibly making it to the national tournament.” The players will continue to practice and rehabilitate for this upcoming season that will start in November. “I think we have a good chance,” said Charleston. “By the time we start to get ready for that, we will be prepared to go up against anybody.”

Page 10 | July 11, 2017

The Lion’s Roar | News

Unwavering passion for production

To the pleasure of the Southeastern Channel Director Rick Settoon, far left, and Steve Zafutto, far right, the channel has continued to rack up Emmy awards. Steven Farmer was honored for his music video “Perfect,” Amanda Triay won an Emmy for her short film “Insomniac,” Amanda Kitch’s “A Stronger You” Public Service Announcement gained an honorable mention, Trevor Vampran’s music video “Drink a Beer,” won in the “Photographer” category and Jonathan Calhoun gained an honorable mention for his PSA “Words Hurt.”Courtesy of Communication and Creative Services LARSHELL GREEN Editor- in- Chief

The Southeastern Channel celebrates its 12th straight year of nominations and Emmy wins. Amanda Triay won an Emmy for her Long Form Fiction short film “Insomniac” and an honorable mention Emmy recognition for her music video “Heathens.” Trevor Vampran won an Emmy in the “Photographer” category for his music video “Drink a Beer.” Films air on the channel’s student film show “Cinematheque.” General Manager of the Southeastern Channel Rick Settoon praised Vampran for his abilities in production and dubbed him an “outstanding cinematographer.” “He creates stunning compositions with excellent lens choices and lighting, especially natural light, to deliver riveting images with rich color,” said Settoon. “Trevor really knows how to use his photographer’s toolbox to hook, engage and move viewers with his visual storytelling.” The mature level of quality of “Insomniac” impressed Settoon being that it was Triay’s first film. “Amanda made perfect creative choices for telling the story in her blocking and staging of the actors in relation to the camera in each shot,” said Settoon. “Her creative, shot-to-shot vision for each scene cut together seamlessly in editing with such a good pace that the audience is locked into the drama and doesn’t even notice the aesthetics and technique behind it. That’s a sign of great filmmaking and very mature for a student director.” Ethan Wooley played the main character William, and Alison Kemp played the haunting spirit that accounts the man’s guilt after his fiancé dies in a car crash that they were both involved in. Triay and Christian Carlin revealed that their inspiration for the short film spewed from seeing “Anaconda” style suspense films on YouTube and noticing how plot twists hooked people easily. Both agreed that the time crunch and low budget proved to be a stressful part of production. “I was really hoping that the audience would sort of pick up on his desperation throughout the whole thing,” said Triay. “It kind of built suspense and kind of felt what he felt. The entire thing from the beginning of script writing to turning in the finished product was three weeks. It was stressful, and our actors were great because they worked crazy long days. Ideally in a situation like that, you would want more time, but there was a deadline, but hey, it worked, we got an Emmy. Overall, I’m pretty happy with it. It’s very reassuring.” Carlin’s music choices for the film reflected the mood and content of the script that he created alongside Triay. “My idea was that the main character was basically torn between his dying wife in

the coma and the apparition that’s haunting him,” said Carlin. “So, my idea was to use some music to amplify at that point of the film whatever he was in that spectrum. When he’s remembering his wife, or talking about her, I tried to use more organic things like strings or pianos, or then when the specter was really digging her nails into him metaphorically, having a hold on him, then I would use more electronic instruments, so like fake, inorganic and less human.” Although Triay produced, directed, shot, edited and created special effects makeup for the film, she accredits a lot of the success to Carlin who wrote the screenplay and original musical score. Carlin was Triay’s longtime boyfriend who later became her fiancé after proposing on the set of “Insomniac.” Triay and Carlin met at the Baptist Collegiate Ministry when Amanda dual enrolled at the university in high school. The pair agreed that their creativity and connection with each other kept the production in harmony. “We spend a lot of time together,” said Carlin. “We talk about it a lot. If you do a project with someone else, you gotta make time to talk about it. Me and Amanda are next door neighbors. We hang out all the time, so it makes things easier. On set, I can read Amanda and she can read me with just a look.” The initial inspiration for a career in production spewed from Triay’s involvement in her productions that her church did. “I got really involved in them doing lighting especially for their youth group,” said Triay. “I think that was when I first really got involved in production with all of these people who had basically retired to volunteer at the church. Hanging out with them and learning with them really inspired me. Triay, a senior communication major and Carlin, a senior majoring in general studies with concentrations in music and creative writing both plan to graduate in December. Triay previously produced episodes of “Cinematheque” and plans to produce “College Night,” the channel’s version of “Saturday Night Live” with the help of Carlin. Vampran graduated this past spring with a bachelor’s degree in communication and served as the cinematographer, producer, director and editor for “Drink a Beer.” Bryan’s video was based on the death of his brother and sister while Vampran’s video depicts the loss of the lead character Adam Hebert’s best friend, played by Dillon Thompson, an East Baton Rouge Sherrif’s Deputy. Although the video that was inspired by Luke Bryan’s “Drink a Beer,” started solely as a class project for Vampran’s communication 260 Field Video Production, it eventually helped him to pay homage to friends who passed away. “As a cancer survivor, I’ve lost many

friends during my treatment at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital,” said Vampran. “I wanted to create something that honored their memories. Of course, the song is about enjoying a cold adult beverage, so I included my childhood best friend who is now a police officer. It serves as a dedication to the friends I’ve lost and also honors the friends that are still by my side.” Vampran admits that he did not expect the reality he now faces as an Emmy winner when his work was initially submitted. “I feel honored and was very surprised to receive the award,” said Vampran. “I knew my work was submitted but never dreamed I would win an Emmy.” With friends by his side as production partners, Vampran found the shooting to be the most difficult part of the process. “Filming all the necessary shots was definitely the hardest part,” said Vampran. “I had to do a lot of pre-production planning and storyboarding to ensure everything tied together.” The conclusion of the music videos, which revealed that the lost friend was a police officer, revealed an important message that Vampran wanted audiences to recognize. “I wanted people to remember that cops are people too with friends and families that worry and care about them,” said Vampran. “Ultimately, when we lose a loved someone, we should remember the good times we shared with them and continue to live our lives in their honor.” After spending time working at the Southeastern Channel, Vampran is thankful for the career aiding lessons that he has learned. “I learned something new every time I worked with the Southeastern Channel,” said Vampran. “I was able to practice and hone my skills through a variety of events and scenarios. Ultimately, you have to think of the viewer and what is going to make you stand out above the rest.” Vampran has hopes of working on an outdoor television show or southern movie set. “Drink a Beer” includes landscapes that were filmed at his grandparent’s house in the Maurepas swamp on the Amite River and makes use of early morning and natural light shots. His methods mirror his love for Louisiana’s landscapes. “My passion for this production combined my interest in filming outdoors and the natural beauty of Louisiana,” said Vampran. “I’d like to work on an outdoor television show or maybe even a southern movie set.” According to Settoon, the channel has seen 15 Emmy winners and has earned 56 nominations in the past 12 years. He believes that Triay and Vampran’s status as student Emmy winners will offer them a better chance at employment upon graduation in the industries of television production and filmmaking.

Recent graduate in communication Trevor Vampran, left, was inspired to create a music video for Luke Bryan’s “Drink A Beer” after several of his friends passed away from cancer. Senior communication major Amanda Triay was inspired to create a supernatural thriller short film after researching with fiancé Christian Carlin. Courtesy of Rick Settoon EUROPE TRIP

continued from pg. 4 I just knew that I had to go up there and profess my love to Sydeny in front of our entire choir. Actually, right before I proposed, I walked towards the front of the bus, told

Dr. Rowe my idea and asked her if I was stupid for wanting to propose then, and she gave me the last bit of confidence I needed to go through with it. Immediately after, we had a celebration at the bar downstairs at the Hotel Expo in Prague. The next day, we

performed an amazing last concert, also in Prague. Lastly, we got to experience Paris as an engaged couple, and take our engagement pictures in the Luxembourg Garden.” Overall, Simmons believed the choir was able to create a bridge of

music to connect with audiences despite cultural and language barriers while overseas. “Being able to touch people’s lives, who you have never met before, in a language they don’t speak, is truly an amazing experience,” said Simmons.

Around

the world

Trump Jr: ‘Had to listen’ to Russian lawyer for Clinton info

Donald Trump Jr. speaks in Indianapolis. President Donald Trump’s eldest son admitted on Monday, July 10, 2017, that he met a Russian lawyer during the 2016 presidential campaign to hear information about Hillary Clinton. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings, File) WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump’s eldest son acknowledged Monday that he met a Russian lawyer during the 2016 presidential campaign to hear information about his father’s Democratic opponent, Hillary Clinton. Donald Trump Jr. tried to brush off the significance of meeting with a foreign lawyer who held out the possibility of dirt on an opponent in the U.S. election. He tweeted sarcastically, “Obviously I’m the first person on a campaign to ever take a meeting to hear info about an opponent ... went nowhere but had to listen.” Trump Jr.’s acknowledgment came as a music publicist told The Associated Press that he set up the meeting on behalf of a client in Moscow named Emin Agalarov, the son of a Moscow-based developer who tried to partner with Trump in a hotel project. On Monday, the publicist, Rob Goldstone, said in a statement that the Russian lawyer said she had information about purported illegal campaign contributions to the Democratic National Committee that she thought Trump Jr. might find helpful. Goldstone said Trump Jr. agreed to squeeze the meeting into a tight schedule. Trump Jr.’s tweet is the latest addition to an explanation that has shifted since the meeting in June 2016 was first reported by The New York Times on Saturday. Over the weekend, Trump Jr. initially omitted any mention of Clinton from his account of the meeting, saying Saturday that the discussion focused on a disbanded program that had allowed American adoptions of Russian children. A day later, Trump Jr. acknowledged he was told beforehand that the lawyer, Natalia Veselnitskaya, might have information “helpful” to the Trump campaign, and was told by her during the meeting that she had information about Clinton. It appeared that Trump Jr. shifted his account of the meeting after being presented with additional information from The Times, which first reported both the discussion and the prospect of negative information about

Clinton. The Kremlin is disavowing knowledge of the Russian lawyer or of the meeting. Veselnitskaya represented the son of a vice president of state-owned Russian Railways in a New York moneylaundering case settled in May before a trial. The meeting was the earliest known private one between key aides to the president and a Russian. Federal and congressional investigators are probing Russian meddling in the presidential election and whether Trump’s campaign coordinated with Russians. Trump calls the investigations a “hoax.” Jared Kushner, Trump’s sonin-law and now White House senior adviser, and then-campaign chairman Paul Manafort also attended the meeting with Veselnitskaya. The Times, citing advisers to the White House who were briefed on the discussion, said Trump Jr. agreed to the meeting after being promised damaging information about Clinton. In his statement Sunday, Trump Jr. said he was asked by an acquaintance he knew from the 2013 Miss Universe pageant to meet someone who might have helpful information for the campaign. He said he was not told the name of the person before the meeting. Trump Jr. did not identify the acquaintance who arranged the meeting, but Goldstone confirmed to the AP that it was him, representing his client, Agalarov. Trump appeared in a pop music video with Agalarov in 2013 that featured several Miss Universe contestants. At the time, Trump owned the pageant. Goldstone’s explanation appears to fit with Trump Jr.’s fuller explanation given Sunday. Trump Jr. said the attorney claimed during the discussion to have information that “individuals connected to Russia were funding the Democratic National Committee” and supporting Clinton. “No details or supporting information was provided or even offered,” Trump Jr. said. -Chad Day and Nekesa Mumbi Moody Associated Press

PAIGE IMBRAGUGLIO

teaching children at the elementary school level is important because young students are learning not only about the world around them but also about themselves. “I chose the career path of teaching so that I can support children to learn about their strengths and their weakness so that they continue to make discoveries about themselves, and from this they will truly be able to accomplish whatever it is they set their minds to,” said Imbragulgio. “Children are unique and different in their own way which is why teaching is such a truly inspiring and rewarding opportunity and career. Children who receive the right kind of motivation and encouragement at an early age will be more likely to be creative and adventurous learners. I want to create challenging, engaging activities so that all students are excited to learn because if children are not having fun, interested or invested in what is being taught, they are not learning to their fullest potential.”

continued from pg. 8

team member. Another quality that works in alignment with her excitement and exuberance is her persistence. Once she gets an idea in her head and begins the planning process, she sticks with it to the end. That may mean communicating with others, asking questions, learning procedures or determining protocol, but whatever it takes to see a project or idea through to fruition, she is persistent in following through to make it happen.” Imbraguglio will be teaching in Kentwood, LA and wants to return to the university. “I will be a kindergarten teacher at O.W. Dillon Leadership Academy in Kentwood, LA for the 2017-2018 school year,” said Imbraguglio. “I also plan on furthering my education by getting a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction at Southeastern in the near future.” For Imbraguglio, she feels