Issuu

JULY 14, 2015 VOLUME 87, ISSUE 2

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

A Student Publication

Evolut i onar y game takes next steps to success

Campus Life Page 2

Opinions Page 3

Arts & Entertainment Page 4

Sports Page 6

News Page 8

LionsRoarNews.com

Lion beauties take stage

BY MEGAN SIMON Campus Life Editor

Creators of “Evolution Through the Ages” strives to take their game to the next level, no longer solely bridging the gap between religion and evolution but also with other fields of science. Incorporating the concepts of chemistry, physics and immunology will take the game a step closer to mimicking the real world and all the phenomenons that take place in it. “Evolution Through the Ages” has made progress in the short amount of time the idea was first formed by graduate Jacob Stagray, CEO and marketing of the game. Having a patent pending and the official copyrights under their belts, Stagray and fellow creator and programmer, CEOO Sean Craft officially launched the gaming site Saturday, July 4. Stagray and Craft were also able to release a textbook filled with the knowledge the game was based off of, which can either be bought separately or with the one-time membership fee for the game. Through the research and vision of Stagray, programming of Craft and supervision of Dr. Murray Pendarvis, “Evolution Through the Ages” was created as a three-dimensional world where players can pick and choose organisms and how they evolve in this world. This world, along with the different lineages of organisms, was created to resemble the evolutionary processes of the natural world. The main goal of the game is to help your chosen organisms avoid extinction. Even though “Evolution Through the Ages” has made large strides, Stagray explains the game will still be continuously updated in the future. “Evolution Through the Ages” will constantly evolve the same way the world does,

see Evolution pg. 2

Photos Courtesy Michelle Roberts and Lacey Sanchez

Second runner-up Emily Randon (left) wears her evening gown during the 2015 Miss Louisiana. Chelsea Hymel, Blake Tabor, Breanna Mann, Lacey Sanchez, Kelly Benard, Reneé Picou and Randon (above, from left to right) showed their Lion Pride at the competition in Monroe, Louisiana June 2527. Southeastern alum Sanchez reigned as 2014 Miss Louisiana. Contestants competed in swimsuit, talent, on-stage questioning and evening gown. Randon was awarded second runner-up while Benard and Picou were recognized in the top ten contestants. Third runner-up, Holli Conway, first runner-up Justine Ker, Miss Louisiana 2015 April Nelson, second runner-up Randon and Eva Edinger (below, from left to right) hug as Nelson proudly wears her crown as the 2015 Miss Louisiana.

BY WILLIAM SCHMIDT Opinions Editor

Beauty took over the stage as 35 contestants competed for the 2015 title of Miss Louisiana. On June 25 and 26, the preliminaries for the beauty pageant took place at the Monroe Civic Center with finals on Saturday, June 27. Southeastern had multiple representations taking the stage including second runnerup Emily Randon and top ten contestants Reneè Picou and Kelly Bernard. Though Miss Crescent City New Orleans April Nelson was crowned Miss Louisiana 2015, Miss Southeastern 2015, Randon, was pleased to bring the spirit of

the university to Monroe. “Representing our university is a dream come true,” said senior kinesiology major with a concentration in exercise science Randon. “As a little girl, I watched the Miss Southeastern Pageant on TV and aspired to one day wear the crown. I love the university with all my heart and am honored every day to hold the title of Miss Southeastern.” Miss Louisiana is part of the Miss American Organization and has multiple competitive categories including swimsuit, talent, on-stage questioning and evening gown. Randon reflected on not only the most calming part of the competition but her favorite event as well.

“Because of my extensive training in ballet, I felt the most calm during the talent portion of the competition,” said Randon. “I really enjoy performing classical ballet, and I find that pageants are an outlet for me to do that. My favorite event was the Dillard’s Style Show at the mall in Monroe. We had a really fun time and got to model beautiful clothes. We also arrived in style to all of our events thanks to the sponsorship of a local limousine company.” Randon left the competition with no regrets and one of the reasons was through her volunteer work as well as promoting her platform “Love the Skin You’re In,” which promotes skin cancer advocacy and awareness.

“One of my goals as Miss Southeastern is to finish my reign with no regrets,” said Randon. “That is why I have chosen to participate in every event and volunteer opportunity that comes my way. I have also found creative ways to promote my platform such as handing out sunscreen packets at SLU baseball games, giving public service announcements on the radio and working to bring shading in the public parks of Hammond.” During the competition of Miss Louisiana, the contestants were able to make lasting memories and friendships. “I left Miss Louisiana with many great memories and friendships,” said Randon.

“The camaraderie between the girls made for a very positive environment backstage. We shared make up, acted silly and more importantly encouraged each other to strive for excellence.” The Miss Southeastern competition will be taking place on October 24 and is one way for competitors to get on the path to compete for Miss Louisiana. “Miss Southeastern was my first pageant, and I am so glad that I decided to compete,” said Randon. “I would like to tell those who are interested in participating to have confidence and take that leap of faith. Don’t let the fact that you are a newcomer hinder you from participating.”

v. Hodges majority opinion, “No union is more profound than marriage, for it embodies the highest ideals of love, fidelity, devotion, sacrifice and family. In forming a marital union, two people become something greater than they once were…They ask for equal dignity in the eyes of the law. The Constitution grants them that right. The judgement of the Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit is reversed. It is so ordered.” When the decision was first noticed by some students of Southeastern, they were unable to hide their joy from the people around them. “I was at work, and I teach a summer camp with one other gay person. We just happened to be paired up,” said senior early childhood education major Allie Pigrenet. “He literally took out his phone to check the time and his phone had just blown up, everything had just gone off. He checks it, drops his phone and just picks me up. I was like ‘what,

what?’ He was like, ‘Gay marriage is legal.’ We immediately started crying and hugging each other and the kids were like, ‘What are you doing?’ They are seven and eight years old and have no idea what is going on.” The excitement was immediately felt by others such as Pigrenet’s girlfriend, sociology graduate student Jennifer Rees who was woken up when she received a phone call. “I am passed out at home, comfily sleeping in my bed, not a care in the world,” said Rees. “I wake up because I hear my phone buzzing and I have five missed calls from her [Pigrenet]. I’m immediately [thinking] car accident, someone died, something bad happened. So I find my glasses and call her back, and I don’t even get a word out and it’s just screaming of, ‘Gay marriage is legal. We could get married. I’m not sorry that I woke you up. I love you. Bye.’ And she hangs up.” Junior communication major

Niel Bourgeois admitted that he lost a friendship due to the Supreme Court’s decision but is hopeful for the university’s overall reaction of finding a way to respect one another’s beliefs. “As far as on campus, everything will be fairer,” said Bourgeois. “I think this is a step of equality for everybody, in all areas, not just marriage. I think it pushed everyone, including Southeastern, to a better state, to be a better campus. Almost everyone I have come across has been very happy for us. I have had some people oppose it, and I have already lost a friendship but it happens. To the people that oppose it, I don’t let it bother me. We don’t all have to agree on everything. We just have to respect each other. You don’t have to believe what I believe, just don’t down it.” Others hold a firm belief that people should let other people love whoever they want. “If it doesn’t affect you personally, then it shouldn’t really

matter what other people do because of whether someone loves someone of the same gender,” said junior math education major Kayleigh Gregoire. “If it is not affecting you, you’re not involved in it. Be fair to other people’s business.” With the newfound legalization of gay marriage, some are ensuring to treat the thought of marriage as if the law has always been in place. “We are not idiotic, we are not going to get married right away,” said Pigrenet. “We are not ready. People who choose to get married have been together for six, eight, ten years. We are just like any other couple. We may know each other better because we are the same sex, but other than that, we are like everyone else. We fight like everyone else, we walk like everyone else and we go to the store like everyone else. We are not any different. It’s no longer gay marriage, it’s just marriage.” For the full story, visit lionsroarnews.com.

Same-sex marriage legal across the United States BY WILLIAM SCHMIDT Opinions Editor

With a historic civil rights decision made, gay marriage is now legal for the United States. On June 26, the U.S. Supreme

Court ruled in a 5-4 favor supporting gay marriage, marking that the U.S. constitution allows same-sex couples to marry in all 50 states. According to Associate Justice Anthony Kennedy in the Obergefell

Associated Press/Pablo Martinez Monsivais

People gather in Lafayette Park to witness the White House being lit up in rainbow colors in commemoration of the Supreme Court’s ruling to legalize same-sex marriage Friday, June 26, 2015, in Washington. Gay and lesbian couples in Washington and across the nation are celebrating the ruling, which will put an end to same-sex marriage bans in the 14 states that still maintain them.

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Weather Tuesday H 98 L 73

Reminders Wednesday H 98 L 74

Friday, July 31 is the last day to return rental textbooks without a fine.

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CAMPUS LIFE

THE LION’S ROAR

Hot August Night shows off downtown BY MEGAN SIMON Campus Life Editor

Hot August Night will be celebrating its 20th birthday for all of Hammond to applaud two decades of fun and community. The event will take place Friday, August 14 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. in downtown Hammond. “The Hot August Night Event is 20 years old,” said executive director of Downtown Development District Terry Lynn Smith. “It will be 20 years old on August 14, so we have a birthday and an event. The reason the Downtown Development District has these kinds of events is to get people to come downtown and have fun and see what we have here. We have retail, restaurants, great places to go and watch football games, a lot of merchants that have been here for awhile and some that are new. We always try to welcome both and promote their businesses, which is our major job. We also support the property owners. They pay the taxes that helps us do what we do.” At the event, there will be “Lion paw-looza” at 6 p.m. at La Carreta’s where the university’s sports teams that are present will come out and

introduce themselves. “We have the pep rally to kick off all sports and in particular football,” said Smith. “Dr. Crain comes; the coaches come, football players, soccer players, basketball players, whomever is on the ground at Southeastern playing sports will be identified.” There will also be a wine stroll, which will give participants a fun new way to check out the stores. Wrist bands for the event will be available for purchase from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and are 20 dollars each. In addition to giving both students and Hammond citizens a good time, the event is also meant to give merchants a chance to show off their businesses exposing to students all downtown Hammond has to offer. “This helps them [merchants] introduce themselves to people who don’t normally come downtown to shop,” said Smith. “They may come down for events, but never to shop. They don’t know what’s here. So, it’s an opportunity for the merchants to do this.” Forty-one merchants will be showing off their businesses at the event, contributing their own unique touches to make it

more special. “The merchants are very enthusiastic about the event,” said Smith. “They like to dress up and have things look good in their stores. I believe Paris Parker will be having a fashion show in their windows, which is extraordinary.” Since this is a cultural district, artists are allowed to sell their work without having to pay state or local taxes, there will be various arts on display in front of stores for sale. For those interested, in order to put their art up for sale, artists have to meet with the owner of the store they want to sell their art in front of. The Chamber, which is a partner of the Downtown Development District, will be hosting Chillin’ with the Chamber and the Hammond Farmers Market will also be joining in, selling produce and crafts behind the Downtown Development District. New businesses will be joining the Hot August Night family. These stores include Universities Specialty Shoppe and Gifts, Velocity Salon, W Salon, Richardson’s Fashion and Noland Stewart Salon. For more information about Hot August Night, contact Downtown Development District at 985-277-5681 at extension 2.

The Lion’s Roar / Jay Love

There will be tables set up for the university’s athletes, where Hot August Night attendees can meet the teams, get game schedules and autographs.

The Lion’s Roar / Jay Love

Along with Chillin’ with the Chamber, the wine stroll downtown and the stands set up by the Farmer’s Market, the event will also have a pep rally, Lion paw-looza, taking the La Carreta stage. EVOLUTION continued from pg. 1

Courtesy of Jacob Stagray

Evolution Trhough the Ages was launched Saturday, July 4. The creators of the game, Jacob Stagray and Sean Craft, plan to continue developing the game in an effort to improve it further and make it resemble the real world.

STEM campers show what they learned HAMMOND - With a passion for science, technology, engineering and math, students can go on to make the world work better, said Jerrie Hanible, biology teacher who spoke to STEM campers on Friday. “You have the information in you to solve problems,” she told them at the closing ceremony of the camp. Tangipahoa African American Heritage Museum and Veterans Archive held its first STEM/Aviation Camp this month, which concluded with a presentation by the students at the museum. The students got to break down and rebuild computers, launch model rockets and earn some flight training hours at the Hammond Northshore Regional Airport through the camp. The campers and their families packed the museum auditorium where they heard

from Hanible, who grew up in Hammond and teaches biology at Southeastern Louisiana University. She spoke about the different professions that the students could pursue if they stick with STEM, including being an astrophysicist, such as Neil deGrasse Tyson, who got interested in science at a camp when he was nine years old, she said. “You can choose any path you want,” she said. The audience also heard from the students themselves who spoke about their science experiments, like one that got an egg into a bottle without cracking it and another to form salt crystals through evaporation. For Javion Haywood, an eighth grader at Loranger Middle School, the best part of the camp was building the circuits to launch the model

rockets, which was challenging, but rewarding. “It made me feel proud of myself,” he said. Agent Cody Moore, member of the Best Buy Geek Squad who taught the computer classes for the camp, said the students were not the only ones who learned from the camp. He is studying at Northshore Technical Community College and hopes to transfer to Southeastern Louisiana University to get a degree in teaching. “This was a really good opportunity for me to get some experience,” he said. Nicholas Alford, the camp’s director, told the crowd he loved seeing the campers working together on projects and having a good time. “But most importantly we learned,” he said. Associate Press / Lauren Langlois (The Daily Star)

such as adding more creatures and concepts to the threedimensional world. “We want to continuously add more creatures and add more concepts,” said Stagray. “For instance, we are adding immunology and how the immune system works into the game, how microbes can affect other organisms and things like that. Sean [Craft] wants to add more physical aspects, and I do plan on adding more chemistry aspects, too.” In an effort to make the game more realistic, Stagray hopes to add more fields of science, such as chemistry and physics, into the game in order to connect all fields of science with evolution and show how much they play a role in the world of biology. This will include seeing both the atomic level, showing how elements bond through the interaction of their electron orbitals and the geologic level, where physics plays a role in tectonics and creating continental divides, which in turn, affects the evolution of certain organisms. “We don’t just want to beat evolution to death but to

promote all scientific fields because currently there has been a lot of budget cuts from the scientific world,” said Stagray. “So we are trying to not just make evolution stand out, but we are trying to build back up all the scientific fields that have been under attack from politicians and companies that just don’t understand why it’s important.” In addition, Stagray will be incorporating his own field of study, immunology, by showing the microbial level in the three-dimensional world and its effects on organisms. “From an immunology aspect, if a microbe is growing at a fast rate, it’s going to affect everything else around it because microbes can become parasitic or bacterial infections. We want the audience to see all of these connections. I know I didn’t see them for the longest time, and now that I see them, I want to help other people see them and how it all relates.” In order to aid students further, Stagray and Craft integrated tutorials that can instruct and explain concepts as one goes further in the

4 miles

from SLU campus

off Wardline Road

game. This gives users the chance to not only enjoy the game but also to understand what is going on as they play. It also gives students taking an evolution class another tool to study. Despite the game’s heavy ties with the science community, Stagray intends the game to be for everybody, not just science majors. “I want users to enter this with an open mind and not the prejudices we’ve all been taught our entire lives or that we can’t learn because of what our fields are,” said Stagray. “For instance, I don’t want an art major to be afraid of playing the game for the simple fact that they are an art major and science is above them. Science isn’t above you. It just needs to be broken down and explained in a thorough process, and that’s what we are trying to do.” To play “Evolution Through the Ages,” visit www. evolutionthroughtheages.com. There is a 12 dollar one-time membership fee. The textbook for the game is offered both as paperback for five dollars and hardcover for 15 dollars.

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OPINIONS

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Banning the Confederate Flag does not end racism Jay Love Sports Editor Flags evidently hurt feelings these days. The Confederate Flag is receiving more flak recently for reasons that some believe to be just, while others think differently. I find myself stuck in an awkward gray area where I feel for both sides of the debate. The Confederate Flag has a bad rep. Any who claim that all those who fly the flag are racist seem to be over-exaggerating. Sure, there are the bunch that spout racism and hate while claiming to only be demonstrating their “Southern Pride.” There are also many southerners who feel the need to show off the fact they live below the Mason-Dixon Line and a flag seems like a logical way of doing so. When it comes to those who fly the Confederate Flag, the actions of some rotten apples give the rest a negative image. As a non-Caucasian male, I can firsthand tell you that racism is a very real thing in South Louisiana. With all the riots that have happened in this country over the past year, racism is one outdated idea that just doesn’t have room in today’s society. The fact that there are still people out there that believe one

person is better than the other is an embarrassment to the human race. Racism is a faulty theory, much like how taking down a flag will cure the disease that is racism. I want to rid this nation of racism as much as the next guy, but I don’t quite see how banning a flag will do so. Although I have never flown the Confederate Flag myself, I must come to the defense of those who have because of my appreciation for the freedom of expression. Without that freedom, I wouldn’t even be here writing this opinion. Taking the flag away almost seems like a way of egging on those who have turned the Confederate Flag into an icon of oppression to many. In recent weeks there has been a trend among retailers to remove the flag from their businesses. Walmart and Amazon are two that come to mind who have tried to further themselves from the symbol; Amazon putting an end to its sale of the flag just seems pointless to me. It is the internet for goodness sake. For every one website that stops selling the Confederate Flag, there will be a dozen more that put it on sale. I find it easy to choose a side on most opinion pieces that come through this publication, but this go round was an exception. There is a popular book out there that states we “shall love thy neighbor as yourself.” Love those who are flying the Confederate Flag and love those who are offended by it.

Legalizing medical marijuana has benefits Elizabeth Brown Staff Reporter In the past few years or so, the topic of the legalization of marijuana has been floating around in the media throughout the United States. With all the talk going around, the state of Louisiana was faced with the question of legalization of the drug, in particular medical cannabis. According to nola.com, as of late June 2015, governor Bobby Jindal signed legislation on two bills, “authorizing a legal medical marijuana growth, prescription and dispensary system in Louisiana.” The signing of one of these bills by Jindal will make Louisiana the first southern state to make medical marijuana available to chronically ill patients. This is great for those suffering with disabling and painful illnesses because of the benefits obtained from the use of the plant. According to drugabuse.gov, there are two main parts of the plant that are of interest for medicinal purposes. Tetrahydrocannabinol, commonly known as THC, increases appetite, reduces nausea and decreases pain, inflammation and muscle control problems. Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, “may be

useful in reducing pain and inflammation, controlling epileptic seizures and possibly even treating mental illness and addictions.” Cannabis has also shown to be beneficial in the treatment of cancer where “extracts may help kill certain cancer cells and reduce the size of others” and “can slow the growth of cancer cells from one of the most serious types of brain tumors.” Scientists are also looking into using the drug as treatment for multiple illnesses and conditions such as autoimmune diseases, inflammation, pain, seizures, substance use disorders and mental disorders. If it has been proven to be helpful against multiple diseases and conditions, who are we to stand in the way of someone else’s relief? My own, closest best friend suffers from epileptic seizures, which means that at any moment, she could have a seizure. The thought of that scares me to my core because she could be driving, get into an accident or fall down a flight of stairs and get badly injured. Knowing that there is another drug out there that could prevent her from experiencing the physical and emotional pain of seizures is extremely relieving and makes me feel very emotional. With the benefits of medical marijuana known and Louisiana being the first state in the South to make medical marijuana legal and available to patients, I have a feeling that this will light a spark in

the South and other states will begin to consider the legalization and availability of medical marijuana. Another signing on one of the bills made by Jindal would “reform criminal penalties for marijuana, making it a misdemeanor rather than a felony for a second offense of marijuana possession.” It would also give first-time offenders the opportunity to “erase their first conviction for possessing marijuana if they don’t reoffend within two years.” This may lead to Louisiana and other states looking into the legalization of marijuana for recreational use, as some states have already done so, such as Colorado and Washington. According to leafly.com, looking at how the legalization of recreational marijuana has affected Colorado through a decrease in the rate of crime and arrests, an increase in tax revenue and a significant increase in the number of jobs in the job market, it seems that the economical benefits, beside the medicinal benefits, outweigh the possible risks of the use of marijuana. What seems to be the main issue with many of those who are against the legalization is that they do not seem to realize that just like any drug, it will affect people differently. Just because a drug has multiple side effects does not mean that they will affect you in all, if any, of those ways.

Why did you choose to attend Southeastern? Joshua Stoval Finance, Incoming Freshman Southeastern feels like home. It has a very homey atmosphere and doesn’t necessarily feel like school all the time. Ashton Denham General Studies, Incoming Freshman My whole family went here and loved it. I figured I would love it too. Jeffrey Ross Music, Incoming Freshman

A busy college summer should be spent in fun Megan McCormick Staff Reporter For some, summer marks the closing of textbooks until August. For others, summer is just a continuation of the never-ending cycle of waking up ridiculously early, hitting the books and returning to work. For me, my summer consists of a combination of fun while remaining involved in school. I decided, like other students, to take summer classes in order to not fall behind on my classes required in my respected curriculum. However, my dilemma is the two hour commute I would

have to take to return to campus every day. Therefore, I enrolled in online classes. It is the best of both worlds; I am able to further my education while lounging around my house throughout the summer. And when I am not lounging or typing an English paper, I’m out enjoying my two months off. At the beginning of the summer, my family and I took flight to go to the most magical place on earth. Yes, I am talking about Disney World in Florida. I know what some of you are thinking; why is a college student going to Disney? You, my friends, are the ones who need to take a load off and wind down. Summer is all about having fun. What better way to do so than to take a vacation?

Whether you plan a trip to another state or to go hiking on trails in one of Louisiana’s state parks, a vacation is a must during summertime. While some cannot afford taking off of work to go on a vacation to another state, that is not an excuse to be a Debbie Downer all summer. There are other activities students can partake in when work and school have completely consumed their lives. For example, a simple night out with friends is always a great way to let go. For those like me who do not enjoy “Turnt Up Thursdays,” don’t fret. A night out does not have to mean being pushed around a crowded bar. Instead, have a game night or movie marathon with some friends who you’ve

disconnected with over the break. A few weeks ago, I had to come to campus for a meeting. Instead of wasting gas driving to and from in the same day, I decided to make the most of my night in Hammond. After the meeting, my friends and I ate dinner, racked up on dollar candy at Walgreens and went to see a new movie at the AMC Palace. It was a perfect way to de-stress. Many people get the impression that one must spend tons of money or travel far to have fun, but that is not always the case. Instead, one can go to the park, hit the gym, have a swim day or even just take a drive to clear their mind. Summertime should be carefree; don’t make yours anything else.

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 Mims Hall Room 128. Annual mail subscriptions

Adara Anders Psychology, Incoming Freshman I chose Southeastern because it is relatively small and I think it would be a great fit for me. April Richardson Nursing, Incoming Freshman I chose Southeastern because I heard they have a good nursing program. Carlene Wyatt Undecided, Incoming Freshman I came here to be on the dance team.

THE LION ’S ROAR - STAFF

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

I chose Southeastern because it was a good experience to meet new people in a good environment.

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

Campus Life Editor Opinions Editor A&E Editor Sports Editor

Megan Simon William Schmidt Megan Ferrando Jay Love

Distribution Tyler Kennedy Advertising Assistants Ashley Guillot

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

CONTACT General Ofﬁces Student Union 1303 Mailing Address The Lion’s Roar SLU 10877 Hammond, LA 70402 E-mail lionsroar@selu.edu Telephone Numbers 985-549-3527 (newsroom) 985-549-3842 (fax) 985-549-3731 (advertising) www.lionsroarnews.com www.selu.edu/lionsroar

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Shattered Illusions

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

THE LION’S ROAR

Culinary Arts Series shows off skills

BY MEGAN SIMON Campus Life Editor

Review

There has always been the debate on whether a movie is more enjoyable in the movie theater or in the comfort of one’s own home. Personally, I never really accredited the success of a movie to the place where I watched it, but I was given the chance to put this to the test. In the past, various movie theatres scheduled classic movies that were well before our time to be played in the theaters, so that people of our generation could experience what it was like to watch these movies in the atmosphere of the theatre as if we were watching it the first time they came out. Some examples include “Back to the Future,” “Batman” and “Jaws.” Having watched the movie almost a decade ago, I saw “Jaws” for the first time in the theater. I found the theater did make a difference in the movie watching experience. The suspense was increased tremendously, especially when you hear all around you the famous Jaws theme song as the shark approaches. Even though I saw the movie already, it still made me tense with anticipation. The suspense would only increase further where there was silence in the movie theatre. The only thing you could hear was the slow, rhythmic lapping of the water. It felt as if you were really there with them in the boat waiting for the mighty beast of the sea to come. Even the classic pop-ups that all suspense or horror movies usually favor had a different effect in the theater. While watching this at home, I wouldn’t even f linch at such scenes, but the theater had me f lopping like a fish out water. The atmosphere of the movie theater not just heightened the suspense of the movie, but I found I was more emotionally invested in the movie than I was when I watched it at my own home. I was more annoyed with the incompetence of the mayor and people of Amity, who cared nothing more than keeping their precious, money-making beach alive. This could be attributed to the huge screen and surround sound of the theatre making you feel as if you were in Amity surrounded by the beachgoers and townspeople. I found that the atmosphere of the movie theater enhances the movie, making it more realistic because you are more engrossed in the film. It pulls you into the story, making you feel more emotionally and physically involved. Besides, never underestimate the effects of the big screen, surround sound and the aroma of movie theater buttered popcorn.

Courtesy of Phillip Colwart

Chef’s Evening is a chance for attendees to break from their normal southern meals and have a chance to try new cuisines made by professional chefs (above). It also gives them a chance to learn how to make such dishes in the comfort of their own home. Chef Coy Mollega (above, right) from Coy’s Contemporary Cuisine is preparing and demonstrating one of his recipes at the series dinner.

BY MEGAN SIMON Campus Life Editor

Hammond Regional Arts Center brings new and unique cuisines to Hammond with their Culinary Arts Series. The fourth dinner will take place Monday, August 10 at Alack Culinary Equipment Superstore. Doors open at 6 p.m. with the event starting at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are 65 dollars for members and 75 dollars for nonmembers. They can be purchased through the Hammond Regional Arts Center website. “This is one of our major fundraising events,” said operations manager of Hammond Regional Arts Center Daphne Hebert. “We try to have five dinners every year, getting a chef for each dinner. They present three courses. They will prepare each course, one at a time and give out the recipe while they’re talking and explain different techniques that people might not know. When they are done showing you how to make the course, they will serve it out to the audience. We usually have some

sort of salad or appetizer, a main course and dessert for every dinner. There’s wines to go with it as well.” Attendees will also have the opportunity to talk to the chefs about their careers and life to see how they came to be professional chefs. “Depending on the chef, some of them will walk around while people are eating their meal while some will stay in the back and get the next course ready,” said Herbert. “It’s all up to the individual at that point. But, usually you get the chance to meet and talk to them some time during the evening.” The featured chef for the August dinner is Chef Tony Bosco of Bosco’s Cafe. In addition to the attendees enjoying new dishes, this series gives chefs the chance to delve into cuisines they do not normally cook. “Everything they brought us is good,” said Herbert. “Every chef we’ve had is fantastic. I’ve never had a bad meal. It’s always different. Bosco’s cafe is based on Italian cuisine, but that doesn’t mean it’s going to be

Italian. This gives chefs a chance to break away from what they do everyday. So, he may decide to get crazy on us and do French cuisine because he doesn’t get to do that often enough.” This series also lets Hammond Regional Arts Center explore other forms of arts. “It is also an opportunity to delve into the other areas of art because there are a lot of different styles of sculpting and paint, and you can come and see that over and over again,” said Herbert. “It’s nice to offer something different outside of that. We really try to promote as much different arts as possible, and this is a way for us to branch out and do that.” According to Herbert, the dinner is like being a part of the audience for a cooking show, where you get to learn new techniques and tips from the professionals. For more information about the Culinary Art Series, visit the Hammond Regional Arts Center website at www.hammondarts.org.

Art center hosts art camp for adults BY HEATHER JEWELL Staff Reporter

The 15th annual Hammond Art Guild’s Art Camp is being held at the Hammond Regional Arts Center from July 13-17 and July 20-24. Originally created by the late Maya Levy, the art camp focuses on adults. “There are many art camps targeting younger children but not many geared for Adult Groups, and we felt we could fill this void,” said Art Guild Presidents Bruce Hume. Taught by various, talented artists within the Hammond Art Guild, the Adult Art Camp offers different creative mediums for students. This year the Hammond Art Guild’s Vice President, Roland Guidry, who has many years’ experience as an artist and

within the theater community, will be instructing an Intro to Water Miscible Oil Painting. The new medium uses a modified oil paint that mixes with water, yet cures much the same as traditional oil paints. Solvents are not required as it cleans with just soap and water. A Pine Needle Basket class will be instructed by Tootie Calmes. Calmes has won awards for her fine woven items and many other artistic talents. She will be instructing the course in the style of the Cushatta Indians. “Tootie’s classes are always a hit each summer,” said Hume. Sylvia Rochester will be instructing the course, Painting Seascapes in Oils. Not only has Rochester won awards for her paintings, but

Professor publishes first memoir BY HEATHER JEWELL Staff Reporter

Southeastern English professor and assistant editor for Louisiana Literature David Armand has just published a memoir and volume of poems. Armand was raised in Folsom parish and has had no short list of various jobs; he has been a draftsman, drywall hanger and press operator for a flag printing factory. His memoir, My Mother’s House is about how Armand was removed from his house and place for adoption as a baby. He was adopted by his aunt and uncle but later suffered the actions of his uncle, who became abusive as well as an suffered from alcoholism. Later in life, Armand was reunited with his biological mother after a failed suicide attempt, when Armand found her in her home after she had taken a handful of pills.

“The memoir chronicles [documents] my foray into the mental health system as I tried to get my mother the help she needed,” said Armand. The Deep Woods, Armand’s volume of poems, deals with being a father and the importance of place and memory. “As I raise my two children, I try to right the wrongs that were done to me as a child,” said Armand. The poems mostly deal with Armand’s own childhood memories of growing up in the country and how he came to terms with his adoptive father and his abusive behavior, ultimately forgiving him. He passed away when Armand was 20 years old. “The poems, however, are much more lighthearted in nature than they may sound,” said Armand.

see MEMOIR pg. 5

she is an accomplished, awardwinning author as well. Watercolor Techniques will be taught by Hume, who is also an award winning artist, accomplished in watercolor, acrylic and oils. The course, Watercolor Techniques, is designed to familiarize students with numerous techniques involved when working with watercolor. Starting off the second week will be Paint and Dye Fibers instructed by Guidry. Guidry will be teaching techniques to produce mesmerizing color and design in silk scarves. Hume will also instruct Outdoor Painting Indoors; this class is designed for those students who wish to paint as though they are in the great outdoors, learning how to omit

the unnecessary and paint the important items to tell their story. Clay Sculpture will be instructed by Mary Smith; she has won many awards for her inspiring ceramic pieces and will be instructing the basics, as well as assisting in the production of her students’ own pieces. Jewelry Construction and Design will be taught by Gisela Niedenfuer. Niedenfuer is another Hammond Art Guild Award Winning Artist, not only for her fine jewelry pieces but her amazing paintings as well. She will be instructing the basics of jewelry construction and assisting students in the production of their own fine jewelry pieces.

Daphne Hebert will be teaching a Leather Mask Making course where students will design and craft their own leather masks. Hebert is an employee at the Hammond Regional Art Center. The final course will be Drawing Techniques. Hume will be the instructor for this course as well. It is an evening Drawing class and is being presented for the individuals who can’t attend a daytime course. The class is designed for the beginner and intermediate students. “We are expecting a very good turnout, most classes are full but some are making a little extra room for a couple more students,” said Hume. For more information contact www.hammondarts.org or call 985-542-7113.

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THE LION’S ROAR

Building isn’t just for architects

The Lion’s Roar / Heather Jewell

The design of “Building Ethics” includes splashes of orange, blue, yellow and purple. Words such as idea, Question and Kindness are printed on the boards as well as the phrase, “This is a metaphor.” Images of human hearts and lungs find their place on the planks alongside the words and a photo of the anatomy of an ant can be seen inside the sculpture too.

BY HEATHER JEWELL Staff Reporter

The Southeastern art department has made history when this summer, for the first time, they teamed up with a nonprofit organization outside of the school, and alongside artist Cedar Lorca Nordbye, creating “Building Ethics.” Constructed of painted and printed lumber, the structure forms a loose outline of a house, with sporadically spaced construction tools throughout and around the perimeter of the instillation. According to Gallery Director Dale Newkirk, it has been a practice since the 1960’s that such structures would resemble temporary stage sets. “When you come into the building, the sculpture instillation is open, and viewers can go into the building it creates,” said Newkirk. The exhibit will be on display until Friday, August 21 and has two phases. All the wood they used for the project was received through either donation or grants. The first phase is still underway; the structure’s intent

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is to combine print making and sculpture with the intent of social engagement. “Building Ethics’” creation was a combined effort by Nordbye, who proposed different architecture styles during his two visits, Southeastern students who were enrolled in summer classes within the art department, department staff members, and other volunteers. Newkirk felt that since there was a low attendance, it benefitted the students more. “The creation of the structure was a part of students’ classroom hours. It was an opportunity to engage them,” said Newkirk. The exhibit is not only meant to be an art instillation, but a call to social action as well. In the second phase, after the exhibit is taken down, all of the boards will be donated and used in the construction of a home. Building the home is The Ginger Ford Northshore Fuller Center for Housing; receiving the home will be Daphne Vernon, and her son Alex, 4. Vernon is a single working mother, and this project gives them their own on that career move, albeit not as quickly as you had hoped. But stay with it. Your personal life takes an unexpected (but very welcome) new turn. SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) If you feel you’ve been unfairly treated in a workplace decision, correct the situation now while there’s still time to do so. Arm yourself with facts, and go to it. Good luck. SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Devising your own system of doing things might be the best way to handle an increasingly complex situation. But do it tactfully in order to avoid ruffling too many of your colleagues’ feathers. CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) A family member’s health problem might once again require you to shift some of your current priorities around. But this time, make certain other relatives will be there to help. AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Catching up on tasks you’ve left undone will take a while to accomplish. But the sooner you complete them, the sooner you’ll be able to take on another time-sensitive project. PISCES (February 19 to March 20) You might feel swamped by all that you’re expected to do. But take a moment to come up for air, then handle things one at a time, and you’ll soon get through them all. BORN THIS WEEK: Although you love being home with your family, you also enjoy traveling and making new friends. (c) 2014 King Features Synd., Inc.

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place to call home. Nordbye was raised in California and attended New Hampshire College and the University of Iowa. Now, he is the associate professor of art at the University of Memphis. This is not the first time Nordbye has done a project similar to “Building Ethics.” In the last year, he has accomplished two smaller projects while partnered with Habitat for Humanity. The houses completed for the afore mentioned projects were erected in his current home of Memphis, Tennessee and one in Lexington, Kentucky as well. Nordbye has dreamt for nearly two decades of completing a project of this scale, using painted and printed planks to transform the outside appearance of a house into something other than the run of the mill look. The design includes splashes of orange, blue, yellow and purple. Words such as Idea, Question and Kindness are printed on boards as well as the phrase, “This is a metaphor.” When someone is standing inside the structure itself prior to making their way out to the front again, over the door frame is the verse, “Arise, shine, for the light has come and the glory of The Lord rides upon you.” The exhibit is free and open to the public. For more information on upcoming exhibits, contact the SELU Art Department at www.selu.edu.

The Lion’s Roar / Heather Jewell

When someone is standing within the structure itself, prior to making their way out to the front, over the door frame is the bible verse, “Arise, shine, for the light of The Lord rides upon you.” Isaiah 60:1. Along the sides are other statements like “The Lord’s strength is sufficient for you.”

MEMOIR continued from pg. 4 The Deep Woods will be released this October along with another novel called The Gorge. According to Armand, it is a murder mystery that takes place at the Bogue Chitto State Park in Franklinton, Louisiana. “The novel opens with a young girl’s body being

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discovered in Fricke’s Cave near the head of the gorge, and the subsequent suspicions that are cast among the various people in town who may have had something to do with her death,” said Armand. Armand also agrees that the process of getting his work published is not an easy one but believes that his success lies in persistence, perseverance and

professionalism. “I try to teach this to all of my students who take creative writing with me here at Southeastern,” says Armand. His desire to leave something of himself behind in books and stories for his children when they get older drives Armand in his writing and he continues to find inspiration from his love of Louisiana.

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P A G E 6 J U LY 1 4 , 2 0 1 5

THE LION’S ROAR

The Lion’s Roar / Tamara Alexander

The Lions have two conference titles under their belt to go along with two FCS playoff appearances in the three years that Ron Roberts has been the head coach. Roberts was named the Southland Coach of the Year for the 2013 season, a season in which the Lions made their first ever FCS playoff appearance.

Ron Roberts coaching stars of the future BY MEGAN SIMON Campus Life Editor

Ron Roberts Youth Football Camp will be starting back up again, giving second through eighth graders a chance to hone in on their football skills. The camp is on Tuesday, July 21 and Wednesday, July 22 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Pre-registration cost 50 dollars while registration the day of is 100 dollars. The full coaching staff will be present and working the camp, along with help from their graduate assistants and a handful of football players from the university’s team. While the coaches are determined to make the camp as fun as possible, they also will be striving to teach skills that campers can utilize in the future, such as speed and running technique, catching the ball, holding the ball, kicking it and proper tackling. The camp will start off with speed training with speed and strength coach Brandon Howard. During this session, campers

will be learning the proper way to run and get faster doing so. The next few sessions will be geared to teach campers all positions of the game and fundamental skills. “We hope after they come out of this camp, they have learned a couple things about how to play football and use them in the future,” said assistant coach Tyler Hennes. According to Hennes, the camp is a good way to get the university more involved with the community and vice versa. “We try to reach out to the whole community,” said Hennes. “For the youth camp, we do it because most of our coaches have kids and want to get them involved with us. We also want to get people in the stands, so if we have their kids wanting to come to a game, they will get more involved.” Youth camp not only focuses on the fundamentals of football but also on the qualities needed for both sports and life. The camp hopes to teach these qualities to the attending youths so they can use them in the future, whether it be for athletics or academics. Head Coach Ron Roberts will be helping accomplish

this goal. “He [Ron Roberts] will introduce our staff,” said Hennes. “He will talk about what he talks to our kids about, like staying focused, grades, things that they will learn by the time they get to high school, like leadership qualities, work ethic, things that we try to instill in them at a young age. Hopefully, we are instilling characteristics in them for not only athletics but for life in general.” The football program also offers other camps in addition to the youth camp. Usually these camps are offered in June. These camps include three elite camps, which are for high school football players, two seven on seven camps and three specialist camps. The elite camps mainly focus on the individual player and learning their position more in depth. The seven on seven camps allow high school teams to compete against one another, while the specialist camps are meant for players on special teams. For more information on the various camps and upcoming youth camp, visit www.ronrobertsfootballcamps.com.

Coaches coming to venue near you BY HEATHER JEWELL STAFF REPORTER Since the return of the football team in 2003, Southeastern wanted to encourage a continuation of affairs with the university’s alumni; to do this, they began the Coaches’ Caravan that same year. During the Coaches’ Caravan, an event where various coaches of Southeastern Athletics travel to six different locations during the summer, they spend time with Southeastern alumni and other excited Lions’ fans. While on tour, they discuss the goals for the forthcoming season with attendees. “We wanted to encourage alumni to stay involved; if we let them meet the coaches, they could get to know them and learn about what to expect for the upcoming season,” said President of the Alumni Association Kathy Pittman. Head football coach Ron Roberts will be attending all six events and accompanying

him will be baseball coach Matt Riser, as well as other sports teams’ figure heads. The 2015 Caravan will last two weeks, and each stop will be hosted by a chapter of the Alumni Association. Beginning on Tuesday, July 14 in Denham Springs, the caravan will make their first appearance at the Greystone Country Club. The caravan will then continue on to the Mellow Mushroom in Metairie on July 15 and the Old Rail Brewing Company in Mandeville on July 16. The second week’s first location will be at the Florida Parishes Arena in Amite on July 21. On July 22, they will then go to Drusilla’s Seafood in Baton Rouge, and their final destination will be in Ponchatoula on July 23 at Roux and Brew Seafood Steakhouse. For more information on upcoming events, benefits and how to join the Alumni Association, call 985-5492150. To learn more about the Lion athletics, go to lionsports. net.

Southeastern Signs Riser To LongTerm Contract

The Lion’s Roar / Jay Love

Since the Coaches’ Caravan started in 2003, fans and alumni have something to look forward to every summer. This year the caravan will travel to six different locations including the state capital, Baton Rouge, Ponchatoula, Metarie and Amite Parish.

COURTESY OF SPORTS INFORMATION Southeastern Louisiana University has signed head baseball coach Matt Riser to a new multi-year contract, Director of Athletics Jay Artigues announced Thursday. The three-year contract is subject to approval by the University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors. “This was a priority for our administration,” Artigues said. “We wanted to get Matt signed to a long-term contract. He has done a tremendous job with the baseball program and is an outstanding role model for our student athletes.” Having just wrapped up his second season at the helm of the program, Riser has guided the Lions to an 80-42 overall record and a pair of championships. The

2015 Lions, who finished 42-17 overall and 25-5 in the Southland Conference, set the school record for overall wins and the Southland record for conference wins on the way to claiming the conference’s regular-season championship. Southeastern finished the 2014 season with a 38-25 record, a Southland Conference Tournament championship and the program’s first appearance in an NCAA Regional in 20 years. The Lions went 1-2 in the Baton Rouge Regional, defeating Bryant University for Southeastern’s first NCAA playoff win since 1992. “Anytime you have success with a young staff, you know opportunities will be there,” Riser said. “This lets the players and recruits know there is a commitment from both the coaches and the administration to continue building upon the

success we’ve had. We have something special here with the ability to be a true national power in college baseball.” Named the 16th head coach in school history on January 21, 2014, Riser has been part of the Lions’ success story since joining the program as a volunteer assistant under then head coach Artigues for the 2008 season. A native of Picayune, Miss., Riser earned his bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering from Tulane University in 2007. As a junior, he played a vital role in helping Tulane reach the 2005 College World Series. During his senior season he produced three home runs, 37 RBI and 16 doubles, helping Tulane to an NCAA Regional Final Appearance. “I’m very thankful to Dr. Crain, the LAA board and

Jay Artigues for coming to an agreement that allows us to continue on this path of success,” Riser said. “Hammond and Southeastern are great for my family with a baby on the way. This is home.” Riser and his wife Jeanette reside in Hammond.

Matt Riser

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THE LION’S ROAR

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Lions continue to impress in Summer BY JAY LOVE Sports Editor

While some students are spending their summers next to pools or the beach, members of the Southeastern baseball team continue to play ball throughout the summer as the Lions carry on towards defending their reign of Southland Conference Champs. A total of 19 members of the Lions baseball team are playing in several different summer leagues, including the Cape Cod Baseball League, which hosts players from the top schools in the nation. Other leagues that Lions will be playing in this summer include the Alaska Baseball League, Coastal Plain League and the Northwoods League. Junior pitcher and Denham Springs native Kyle Cedotal is staying close to home this summer. The left-hander is currently playing for the Orleans Firebirds of the Cape Cod League. Cedotal is following in the footsteps of former Lion and 2014 MLB draftee Andro Čutura and current Lion Mason Klotz as the newest Lion pitcher to compete in the Cape Cod League. With three starts under

his belt, Cedotal is 2-0 this season and boasting a 1.12 ERA. The High Point-Thomasville HiToms are hosting the most Lions this summer with three Lions on the roster currently and one more to join. Junior pitcher Klotz, sophomore infielder Kennon Menard and freshman pitcher Mac Sceroler are currently playing for the HiToms, while senior catcher Sam Roberson is expected to join the team once he is healthy. Sophomore outfielder Webb Bobo has impressed during his time with the St. Cloud Rox of the Northwoods League. The Alabama native is currently leading the team in batting average at .321 and is tied for second on the team in homeruns with three. Bobo was named the Player of the Night earlier this month after going 3-5 in a game against the Express and knocking two homers over the fence in the process. Junior designated hitter Daniel Midyett found his way onto the field as he has been playing left field for the Strasburg Express of the Valley League. The Shreveport native is hitting .283 and has had two homers this summer. Strasburg Express general manager Jay Neal has been especially fond of Midyett’s game away from

the bat. “He [Midyett] has been playing excellent defense and has done a super job,” said Neal. “It turns out he plays a good first base.” Playing alongside Midyett for the Strasburg Express is freshman pitcher Drew Avans. The Alabama native has a 3-1 record this season and is pitching an ERA of 2.76. Neal expressed how Avans has played well on offense also. “He’s been hitting a decent average,” said Neal. “He’s been playing the outfield some and his pitching has been excellent. Midyett and Avans are two really hard working guys.” The reigning Southland Player of the Year Jacob Seward and teammate pitcher Scott Szush are together competing for the Acadiana Cane Cutters of the Texas Collegiate League. Szush has made the most appearances on the mound for the Cane Cutters with nine appearances on the mound this season, while Seward has a perfect fielding percentage. Head coach Matt Riser and the Lions will look to defend their Southland Conference title this coming season. Visit lionsports.net to stay updated on Lions baseball.

Courtesy of St. Cloud Rox

Sophomore outfielder Webb Bobo (above) has been logging in time for the St. Cloud Rox of the Northwoods league, while junior designated hitter Daniel Midyett (right) has been playing outfield and first base for the Strasburg Express.

The Lion’s Roar/ file photo

Southeastern’s Langlois accepts administrative role COURTESY OF SPORTS INFORMATION Southeastern Louisiana University head softball coach Pete Langlois has accepted the position of Assistant to the Athletic Director for Facilities and Operations, Southeastern Director of Athletics Jay Artigues announced on Monday. “We’re very grateful that Pete has made the decision to become a valued member of our administration,” Artigues said. “Pete will continue to be a huge asset to Southeastern Athletics and will be an integral part of our administrative team.” Langlois, the winningest coach in program history, chose to move in to an administrative position after recently completing his 21st season at the helm of the program. Langlois’ 2015 Lady Lions advanced to the Southland Conference Tournament behind All-Region outfielder Katie Lacour, as well as AllSouthland Conference performers Megan

Moore, Amber Sather, Sydney Booker, Kinsey Nichols and Taylor Bishop. Since taking over the program in 1995, Langlois has helped the SLU softball program to grow and improve. Since joining the Southland Conference, the program has produced 56 All-Southland Conference and 49 All-Louisiana picks, while advancing to the league tournament six times. During his time in Hammond, Langlois has facilitated upgrades of the program’s home facility, North Oak Park, as a new press box, fencing, upgraded dugouts, batting cages and entrance were all added under Langlois’ watch to turn the SLU home field into one of the Southland’s top facilities. Langlois also created an indoor hitting facility adjacent to the team’s locker room. “Pete has done an outstanding job building our softball program and we’re dedicated to finding a person who can continue growing what he built,” Artigues said. “Pete will be a great asset in the search process.”

While his choice to transition to his new role was difficult, Langlois is excited about the challenge as well as the opportunity to spend more time with his wife, Yvette, their son, Jacques, and his daughters, Malorie and Macie. “I’ve had the time of my life over the past 21 years coaching at Southeastern,” Langlois said. “It will be tough to not be around the game every day, but this is an opportunity and promotion I couldn’t pass up. I’m excited to continue to be a member of the Southeastern Athletics family. “For all these years, I’ve had the opportunity to coach and work with some very special student-athletes and I will treasure those memories,” Langlois added. “It’s time for me to spend more time with my family.” A national search to name Langlois’ successor will begin immediately. Arica Rodriguez, who just completed her sixth year as an assistant coach on Langlois’ staff, will serve as interim head coach.

The Lion’s Roar / Kelonda Dixon

Pete Langlois held the Head Coach position over 20 years for the Lady Lions. In that time he has become the winningest coach in the programs history.

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