The lion’s roar
A Student Publication • Volume 89 - Issue 2
fall 2017 Special Edition
The history of Welcome Week is explored SEE 6
Construction sends university on route to success SEE 12
Gnarly Barley celebrates university brew SEE 15
Southeastern Louisiana University • LIONSROARNEWS.COM
Mistretta steps up as track and field Head Coach SEE 20
Table of Contents August 15, 2017
05 06 08 11
Enjoy campus attractions Insight into campus traditions Campus officials share goals beyond annual Welcome Week events
“Know the Code” continues
pg. 5
A ring, a tradition, a symbol As fall ring sales approach, the history of the university’s ring is examined
12 15 17 19 20 23
pg. 11
Changes due to construction The landscape of campus is being altered, and Lion Traxx gets a new route
Gnarly Barley hosts brew party
pg. 12
Jenn Rees returns to local stages Local graduate student and acoustic singer performs after an eight-month hiatus
An overview of fall sports
pg. 17
Sean Brady ends university career Senior athletes engage in reflection Athletes prepare to bid farewell
pg. 20
The Lion’s Roar | 3
EDITORIAL By Larshell Green - Editor-in-Chief
Ask any reporter on staff what the most difficult day of production is, and I would be willing to bet that without hesitation they will say Mondays. Most of our audience knows that our newspapers are always available in green bins on campus and around the local area every Tuesday morning. Our online content is posted throughout the week starting
on Tuesday. Most people don’t take into account how many factors allow or possibly prevent us from showing audiences newspapers with original, creative and accurate content. Before stories are even written, editors and editors-intraining meet to discuss what goes in the paper. We get story ideas from a variety of sources online, in person and over the phone. Once assignments are written, staff reporters receive them and begin researching prior to interviews. If all goes well, reporters get their interviews, turn in their articles and photos and make their editors happy. Then we have to go through the editing process.
STAFF
The Lion’s Roar Editor-in-Chief Larshell Green Coordinator Lorraine Peppo Director Lee E. Lind Delivery Jesse Salminen
CONTACT US General Offices Student Union Room 1303
Mailing Address
The Lion’s Roar SLU 10877 Hammond, LA 70402
Email lionsroar@selu.edu
Telephone Numbers
985.549.3527 (newsroom)
985.549.3842 (fax)
985.549.3731 (advertising)
www.lionsroarnews.com www.selu.edu/lionsroar
Take into account the time we must spend building layout and studying for classes. This is all done over the course of Tuesday mornings up until Monday evenings of the next week when the paper is sent off to be printed by a printing press. Worst case scenario, a story falls through, layout changes and editors spin into a state of fury in order to correct things within very small windows of time. The point of my mini explanation about our production schedule is to explain that it truly takes a village to raise a child. The Lion’s Roar is like a child that requires constant attention, support, creativity
and skill. Like a child, it will grow and mature over time. We are blessed to have such a large village that is made up of former staff members, campus faculty and staff, students, community members, interviewees and more. As a staff, we all look forward to producing publications over the next semester that create connections with readers. Whether they agree with the topics we discuss or not, I hope that content sparks a new thought process that eventually develops into a conversation. Language has been a constant force throughout history that has united villages. Let’s not let this tradition die in our village.
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 in regular issues of The Lion’s Roar. 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 Student Union 1303. Annual mail subscriptions are $35 within the continental U.S. The Lion’s Roar, in its print form, associated Web sites and CD/DVD versions are designated public forums. Student editors have the authority to make content decisions without censorship or prior approval. The Lion’s Roar also defends the rights of student journalists relative to freedom of speech and press as stated in Amendment I of the Constitution of the United States of America. The Lion’s Roar is published through the Office of Student Publications, part of the Division for Student Affairs. It is published weekly during regular semesters and monthly during the summer semester.
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opinions
THOUGHTS OF A LATE COLLEGE STARTER
By Zachary Billiot - Staff Reporter Contrary to the usual assumption, I did not attend school for the full academic year last year. I was one of those people who started in the spring. From there, I took my classes, had my struggles and found a job at The Lion’s Roar. Technically, I’m still a freshman. I spent my first and only semester of the 2016-17 academic year about as typically as one can expect. That said, I’m excited to return and get back into the fold. To those of you incoming for the first time this year, heed my advice: stay on top of those deadlines. You have no idea how important they are. Professors may extend a hand to help you and remind you, but at the end of the day, it is your job to get your work done. I
admit I didn’t do too well on that front last semester, but I’m taking the “L” and using it to my advantage to further my college career and advance my work ethic. Another tip for those incoming freshmen this year: try to find yourself a couple of friends. Do not skimp out on those friend circles because they can make or break your first few semesters if you let them. I was lucky enough to find friends at the job I landed here after losing some friends I started with. On top of that, I had less time to find new people to talk to than most students due to my starting in January. Those friends helped me out in ways they will probably never know. They know who they are. That’s one of the things I missed most about college through the summer. I missed my friends that I had made. I didn’t get to
make it back to Hammond all summer, so I never got to see them. I have to admit I also missed the autonomy provided by living in a dorm. Choosing when to eat, wash clothes, clean, relax and sleep had a very specific appeal to me. While I love the dependability from living with Mom and Dad, there’s nothing quite like living on your own or with a roommate who is hardly ever home. I’ll go ahead and reiterate for the sake of its importance how you should stay on top of your deadlines. It’s extremely important. I can’t stress that enough. Keep those deadlines in mind and make time for your work. Life will be hard if you don’t, but don’t freeze up in fear from that. Remember, this is college, and it’s supposed to be a great time. It’s only a bad time if you let it, so let’s have a great year, yeah?
Opinions
Before graduation, enjoy
The Lion’s Roar | 5
these campus gems
Vonnie Borden Theatre
REC Center
Productions put on by the theatre program are presented in the Vonnie Borden Theatre. The dance program also presents some of their dance productions in this theater. Vonnie Borden Theatre is located on the first floor in D Vickers Hall. To attend events hosted here, purchase tickets from the box office located across from the theater.
The Pennington Student Activity Center is commonly referred to as the REC Center. Events such as REC Fest and Swamp Bowl are hosted in the grassy area near the Pennington. The Pennington is located at the entrance to the tunnel on south campus. All enrolled students have membership to the Pennington’s facilities.
Friendship Circle
University Center
Lions football fans tailgate the home games around Friendship Circle. Friendship Circle is located on Western Ave. near Pottle Music Building and Strawberry Stadium. Friendship Oak is located at the edge of Friendship Circle.
Men’s and Women’s basketball play their home games in the green dome- shaped University Center along with the volleyball team. This is also the venue where commencement is held each semester. Every so often, celebrity guests visit.
Pottle Auditorium faces Friendship Circle. Instrumental and vocal performances are held here. Annual events such as Guitar Fest, fanfare lectures and Wind Symphony feature faculty, students and guests.
CAG is located behind the west side of Strawberry Stadium. There are often student and faculty artworks on display in this gallery. Exhibitons are free and often coincides with insightful lectures.
Pottle Music Building
Contemporary Art Gallery
Page 6 | August 15, 2017
Campus Life
A fall week of welcome for students
Welcome Week is an annual event that happens in the beginning of the fall semester to welcome incoming and returning students to campus. File Photo By Annie Goodman- Staff Reporter To open the new academic year, the university hosts Welcome Week, previously known as Traditions, for incoming and returning students.
This year, Welcome Week will take place from Sunday, Aug. 13 through Friday, Aug. 18. “Adjusting to university life can be challenging, especially
for new, beginning students,” said Vice President of the Division for Student Affairs Dr. Eric Summers. “Our hope is that their participation in Welcome Week will lessen their anxieties and prepare them for a successful semester.” According to the Director of University Housing Dr. Pamela Rault, Welcome Week has been around for many decades. “A committee of university representatives and students evaluate the schedule from the previous year, discuss what we as a university are trying to achieve through Welcome Week, and develop events in order to reach those goals,” said Rault. Welcome Week consists of many old and new events.
“Probably the oldest event this year is Strawberry Jam,” said Rault. “Strawberry Jam is always popular with new and returning students. However, there are many new events this year that will also be a big draw to the students.” Rault believes there are three primary goals for Welcome Week. Rault said, “We want to help students feel welcomed to campus, prepare for a successful year, provide opportunities for new and returning Southeastern students to get involved and connect to campus life. We also want to help new students begin to feel a sense of belonging to Southeastern family.”
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Campus Life
What you need to know about joining Greek Life in Fall ‘17 For the
Ladies Collegiate Panhellenic Council -CPC Recruitment was on Aug. 7-12. -For more information on CPC Recruitment, contact Greek Life at (985) 549-2120. +Alpha Omicron Pi +Alpha Sigma Tau +Phi Mu
+Theta Phi Alpha +Sigma Sigma Sigma
National Pan-Hellenic Council Historically African American Greek Organizations
-NPHC will host an Informal Social on Aug. 18 during the Welcome Week Block Party. NPHC will also host an Informational on Aug. 30. More information on this Informational will be given at a later time. -Students interested in participating in recruitment must be enrolled full-time and have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5. Students interested in joining a NPHC fraternity or sorority should contact the chapter they are interested in for any additional requirements. +Alpha Kappa Alpha +Delta Sigma Theta
+Sigma Gamma Rho +Zeta Phi Beta
For the
Gents National Pan-Hellenic Council Historically African American Greek Organizations
-NPHC will host an Informal Social on Aug. 18 during the Welcome Week Block Party. NPHC will also host an Informational on Aug. 30. More information on this Informational will be given at a later time. -Students interested in participating in recruitment must be enrolled full-time and have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5. Students interested in joining a NPHC fraternity or sorority should contact the chapter they are interested in for any additional requirements. +Omega Psi Phi +Phi Beta Sigma
+Alpha Phi Alpha +Kappa Alpha Psi
Interfraternity Council
-IFC Recruitment is Aug. 27-31, and the deadline to register is Aug. 25 at 12:30 p.m. -Students interested in participating in recruitment must be enrolled full-time and have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5. +Delta Tau Delta +Kappa Alpha Order +Kappa Sigma +Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia
+Pi Kappa Alpha +Sigma Tau Gamma +Theta Chi +Theta Xi
*For more information on all Greek organizations, call Student Engagement at (985) 549-2120.
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Do you know ‘the code’?
By Riana Braselman- Staff Reporter The Office of Student Advocacy and Accountability formally known as the Office of Student Conduct hosts many campaigns and a peer hearing board to inform students of their rights and responsibilities while on campus. “Students are responsible for being familiar with all university standards, rules and regulations, and by educating them, it reduces the prevalence of conduct violations,” said Antoinette Alack, Assistant Director for the Office of Student Advocacy and Accountability. One of the ways the office educates students about the rules on campus is by hosting campaigns throughout the school year. “Know the Code” was created to help incoming and returning students to familiarize themselves with these regulations. “‘Know the Code’ is an annual campaign held in the first few weeks of fall and spring semesters to inform the campus community,
specifically the student body about our university policies, conduct standards and general expectations that we advocate for as a proactive practice to promote student success here at Southeastern,” said Alack. “In fact, since the establishment of the campaign in 2008, The Office of Student Advocacy and Accountability has reduced our recidivism rate from 5 percent to less than 2.5 percent which has an impact on retention.” Advocacy and Accountability has also established a hearing board for students, faculty and staff to participate in. “The Hearing Board is a panel of faculty, staff and students that hear cases that have allegedly violated university policy,” said Alack. “Students will have the opportunity to be trained to hear cases, investigate through questioning, deliberate on information collected, and decide a finding on the matter at hand based on a preponderance standard.” The recruitment process for the Hearing Board will take place from Aug. 14 until Sept. 1.
Campus Life
“The Office of Student Advocacy and Accountability is recruiting upperclassmen that are strongly interested and passionate about serving as peer adjudicators,” said Alack. “All majors are welcome to apply. Students must have good work ethic, be professional, dependable and maintain confidentiality. In addition, they must be in good standing, free of any disciplinary or academic violations to serve.” Applications should be sent to www. southeastern.edu/hearingboard no later than Sept. 1. A brief background check is required once applications are sent in. An in-person interview and mandatory training will follow. The purpose of the board is to encourage and redirect students with the assistance of their peers. “It is no secret that students learn from other students,” said Alack. “The Hearing Board is a great way to educate and redirect student behavior back on the right track toward graduation and to advocate for better choices.”
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Campus Life
LIKE MOTHER, LIKE SON: A JOURNEY By Nathaniel Callaway - Staff Reporter College can be an exciting time. Students and faculty can do everything from finding their way down a chosen career path to discovering the very thing that they want to do in life. For Victoria Neyland, a general studies major who graduated on May 13, her first college experience involved surgery, dancing and marriage. In 1976, Neyland began pursuing an education at the university as a dance major. She describes a few of the differences between school then and now. “When I started school in 1976, registration at
Southeastern was so different than it is today,” said Neyland. “We used to stand in long lines to register classes, and if you were at the end of the line, you may have not gotten the classes you needed. I love that registration is now just a click of a button on my computer.” Neyland claims the tools and luxuries students have available to them have improved. “Since I’ve returned, I have also taken more than half of my classes online, which I think is great because I love taking my test in my pajamas in my living room,” said Neyland.
Recent graduate Victoria Neyland and her son Noah Neyland provided support during their journeys as students. Photo Courtesy of Victoria Neyland “The school is so much larger than it used to be back in the past, and there are so many more students attending. The computers at Sims Library are a wonderful addition considering no one owned a computer in the ‘70s and the only phones available were in our dorm rooms attached to the wall.” However, the campus isn’t the only thing that’s changed since the last time she was attending. During her first year at the university, she met her husband-to-be, Robert Neyland, on campus. “I was a dance major at SLU where I met my husband, Robert Neyland who was a theatre major,” said Neyland. “We were rehearsing for the musical ‘Cabaret’ in the fall of 1976. We started dating in March of 1978. Our first date was at the old Student Union which is now the Student Bookstore. My husband asked me if I wanted anything. Then, he shocked me by asking for the money to pay for it. After all, we were students at the time. We still laugh about that first date.” The two dated for about two years until they finally got married on Saturday, Aug. 26, 1978, and then they started their fall semester together. They
lived together in the married student apartments that at the time were located where the Pennington Student Activity Center is today. Neyland noticed problems with her left eye during rehearsal for a 1980 spring dance recital. After discovering that she was pregnant in the fall of 1980 and undergoing eye surgery, Neyland withdrew from classes. “I danced in ‘Pippin’ while four months pregnant,” said Neyland. “I never returned to school after my first son was born in January 1981. I was torn between school, motherhood and the possibility of another retinal detachment that could cause permanent blindness.” Neyland always wanted to finish school, but her growing family pushed that dream further and further back. Neyland said, “Looking back on it, I really put all my energy into raising my son, but my dream was always to finish school. I had my daughter six years later.” Everything from first meeting her husband to telling him about their third child happened on campus. During a celebration of
see NEYLAND pg. 10
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News
New leadership in housing
Pamela Rault By Zachary Araki- Staff Reporter Dr. Pamela Rault steps into a new leadership role as the director of University Housing. Rault considers the opportunities that accompany the position from the two residence halls undergoing construction to enhancing learning communities. “It’s an opportunity for me to serve the university in a different capacity,” said Rault. “I’m NEYLAND
continued from pg. 9 their 18th wedding anniversary, Neyland had a surprise in store for her husband. Neyland explained, “I took a pregnancy test, and we drove to SLU to visit. As we were sitting on a bench under the Friendship Circle tree, I gave my husband two cards. One was about our anniversary, and the other was about the surprise baby which was a total surprise to him. We sat there watching the students walking through campus, and we just had to laugh at ourselves. We were starting all over again since we had a 10-year-old and a 16-year-old at the time.” Neyland has returned to school to finish her degree in general studies along with Noah, who is 20 years old and a computer science major. Neyland felt that the best way to
excited about the ability to come in and help take housing to the next level, especially with the two new residence halls coming on board. There’s an opportunity to be doing a lot more outreach and programming.” Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Eric Summers believes Rault’s transition from Student Engagement to University Housing will benefit the university. “Dr. Rault assuming the role of housing director is not only good for residential life, it’s good for the university,” said Summers. “All of the programs that Dr. Rault supervised in DSA such as the ExCEL program had an outstanding retention rate under her leadership. She will no doubt take the same approach that she had in DSA to her new role in housing to improve the success of students living on campus.”
After joining Student Engagement in October 2014, Rault found a new appreciation for the university’s close knit environment. Rault said, “When I was interviewing initially at Southeastern, everyone talked about the Southeastern family, and it did not take very long for me to understand and to actually feel part of that family. Even though I’ve only been here for a couple of years, I very much feel like I’m part of that family.” Rault discusses her ambitions with the position. “I would like to focus on just recruitment and retention,” said Rault. “When you’re thinking about housing, it deals with both of those. It’s housing recruitment for the incoming students who are not students yet, but it’s also recruiting students who are already on campus to say,
‘Hey, you may be a commuter student right now, but why don’t you come over and check out housing. It may be something you’re interested in.’ From the retention side, statistics show that if you live within campus housing, you are more engaged in the campus.” Rault sees her colleagues as an aid in resolving any challenges on the job. “I have a very supportive division within Auxiliary Services,” said Rault. “They’re definitely supportive. They want to see housing succeed, and they’ve really reached out to me many times to say, ‘Hey, do you need anything? Let us know what we can do to help.’ I think that having those relationships with colleagues is something that is very important to me and will help me succeed in this position.”
encourage him to go to college was to finish it herself and has gone to her classes with him. “When Noah was trying to decide what path to take after high school, I encouraged him to attend college,” said Neyland. “As I was helping him apply to schools, I decided I wanted to return to Southeastern to encourage my son, Noah, to attend college and not to give up when things got hard. After beginning his first semester at the university this past spring, the pair bonded through their new experiences. “He has been a good sport about attending school with his mom,” said Neyland. “We ride together on Tuesdays and Thursdays.” As time goes on, Neyland hopes that her story might encourage others to see their education as a gift to always pursue, and that no matter how hard it might get, they should
never give up on their dreams. “When I was in school the first go around, I didn’t take school as seriously,” said Neyland. “I loved being active in the theatre department and the dance department, but I didn’t put school first. That has totally changed for me this time. I take my classes very seriously, and I love learning
more than ever before. Prior to graduation, Neyland reflected on how her experiences at the university has impacted herself and others. Neyland said, “I hope my efforts will inspire my son and others to work hard to achieve their goals and to never give up, no matter what the circumstances.”
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News
TRADITIONS: BEYOND COLLEGIATE CAREERS From Staff Reports
Students order rings and attend the annual ring ceremony in preperation for graduation. However, memories for the university span beyond graduation. File Photo/The Lion’s Roar
The university’s student body spends many years and a certain amount of financial commitment to earn a degree. To symbolize this achievement, the university offers many physical objects that represent a graduate’s success, one of those objects being a graduation ring. Linda Hoover, an alumna purchased her first graduation ring for $32 in 1968 to commemorate her bachelor’s degree. “I was so proud to graduate that I wanted a ring to show off,” said Hoover. “I also bought one at the end of my specialist degrees to show the end of that endeavor so, I have symbols for both the beginning and end of my education.” Hoover was awared three degrees from the university. A special memento for Hoover from her time in higher education for the past 49 years has been her graduation ring. While the graduation year on the ring is updated with each graduating class, there are lasting symbols on the ring that tell the history of the university. The university’s seal is ingrained with the Latin words “Integhtas,” Fortitudo” and “Fidelitas” which in English is “Integrity,” “Fortitude” and “Fidelity.” Underneath the seal is the word “LIONS,” paying homage to the ring wearer’s alma mater. On the opposite side of the ring, there is a three-columned building representing the three titles the university has been called, Hammond Junior College, Southeastern Louisiana College and Southeastern Louisiana University. Beside this is the name of the graduate’s earned
degree above a portrait of the university mascot Roomie. Below this is Friendship Oak. This symbol was chosen to represent the university’s origins and bonds rooted in Tangipahoa parish while the branches of Friendship Oak represents the knowledge of the graduates spreading throughout the world. Underneath Friendship Oak is the year 1925, the founding year of the university. The green stone that sits on top of the ring reflects the school’s colors and represents the new life of the graduate earning the degree. In the center of the stone is a capital “S,” standing for the school’s name and surrounding it is a circle, reflecting the relationships and memories forged while at the university. Hoover explains why the symbolism of these images on her ring has a personal impact on her life. “My ring is important to me because it symbolizes achievements for me for which I am very proud,” said Hoover. “My parents didn’t have the opportunity to finish school because they came from large families. They had to work on the farm growing up to help raise and harvest crops, so even though education was important to them, the crops had to be harvested. Having enough money to go to college was very important for my family, and I chose to buy a graduation ring to represent that.” A graduation ring is a symbol that can be worn to represent one’s higher education. Custom rings offered depict aspects of the university that a graduate can always wear to represent memories.
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news
CONSTRUCTION
UPDATES
By Jonathan Rhodes - Staff Reporter For the fall semester, parking and the Lion Traxx route have been changed to accommodate the construction for new housing near Texas Avenue and where Twelve Oaks was located. To replace the parking behind the Sims Memorial Library that is lost due to construction, the Texas Avenue lot next to the construction site is for upper class commuter parking. The lot where the Vera W. Thomason Health Center was located is now overflow parking for Residential Zones 4 and 7. Beginning at the corner of North Oak Street and ending at North Pine Street is upper class commuter parking. The entire railroad lot is upper class commuter parking, and the parking garage is always available for upper class commuter parking. Parking Business Manager Cora von Aspern has a few tips to get parking spots on campus this semester.
“Come early to get a parking place,” said Aspern. “North campus freshman parking is overflow for everybody. The parking garage is also a good place. The third and fourth floors are never full throughout the year.” Aspern hopes students registering their cars for parking will know all rules and regulations for parking. “Students need to make sure they read the parking rules and regulations,” said Aspern. “When they register their cars, it will say to certify that they have read the rules, and most students don’t. If a student gets a citation, don’t ignore it. Come by the office, and we will do what we can to help them out. That does not mean we are gonna void every one of them.” The graphics on the next two pages show the new Lion Traxx route and an estimate of how the new dorms will look. The timeline below shows possible construction dates of completion.
Current construction updates timeline for fall 2017 and spring 2018 semester
Fall ‘17
Mid Fall
End of fall
Spring-Fall ‘18
By late August or early September, Cayman Café, Quiznos and the rest of Twelve Oaks will be completely demolished. The foundation for the two new buildings will be constructed in mid-September. The slab will be poured on the foundation, and framework will be laid down.
Between October and November, work will be done on top of the foundation. The structures will start to appear and get taller as the months go by. The parking spaces where Twelve Oaks, Cayman Café and the Vera W. Thomason Health Center are located will be used for upper class commuters.
From December into the spring 2018 semester, the exterior structures should be finished and work can be done in the interior to place bricks on the outside of the buildings. Work on the buildings will continue through the summer of 2018.
In fall 2018 the two housing facilities will be completely finished and all parking will be restored on campus. Demolition of Zachary Taylor Hall will begin. Students living in Zachary Taylor Hall will be notified before the fall 2018 semester that they will not be returning to the dorm.
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News
Lion Traxx Fall 2017 Shuttle Routes LION TRAXX GREEN ROUTE Textbook Rental
6
7 Village/Oaks
University Center 5 Gate 6
1
N o r t h
University Center Gate 2
University Avenue
N o r t h
4 TEC
O a k
G e n e r a l P e r s h i n g
S t r e e t
Student Union
2
Friendship Circle
Parking 3 Garage
ta ako
W. D
et
Stre
The goal of Shuttle Services is to have two buses on each of the routes this semester so that a bus will reach a stop every five minutes. The Lion Traxx tracker can be used to identify the locations and distances of shuttles .
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news
On Campus Housing Render Front View
Facility Planning provided a front view render of one of the newest housing facilities that is expected to be completed by fall 2018. In order for the project to begin, Zachary Taylor Hall needed to be demolished during the summer of 2017. After the conclusion of the project, parking on all areas of campus will be restored.
Collaborative Minds is the premier independent psychiatric clinic for Southeast Louisiana and the Gulf Coast region. We offer various treatment options for managing mental health illness including medication management, ADD/ADHD testing, genetic testing, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). TMS can provide symptom resolution for those suffering with major depression without the usage of medication. For more information our offices located at 10517 Kentshire Ct., in Baton Rouge or 1250 SW Railroad Ave., Unit 220-A in Hammond.
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Arts & Entertainment
University family celebrates Lion Up beer By Jonathan Rhodes- Staff Reporter
Gnarly Barley released and sold their university brand beer to members of the community and of the university. The party included live music, food and an appearance from Roomie and the Lions cheerleading team. Jonathan Rhodes/The Lion’s Roar
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) As eager as you are to take on that new challenge, it would be best to temper that spurt of “Ram”-bunctious energy until you have more facts to back up your decision. TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) This is a good time for hardworking Bovines to take a break from their hectic on-the-job schedules to bask in the unconditional love and support of friends and family. GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Pay attention to what you hear in the workplace. You could pick up some hints about possible changes. Meanwhile, a new infusion of creative energy sets in by week’s end. CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Try to be more flexible in dealing with a suddenly difficult situation, whether it’s on the job or in the home. Others might have some good points to offer. Listen to them. LEO (July 23 to August 22) You might think you’re not getting the royal treatment you deserve. But be careful not to become a royal pain by complaining about it. Be patient and allow things to work out. VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Watch that penchant for being super-judgmental at work. It might create a bad impression with someone whose decisions could determine the
The Gnarly Barley Brewing Co. held their release party for the university brand American wheat ale Lion Up beer that will be sold in stores in the Hammond and Northshore area and at Lions football games this season. The party was held on Aug 5. at the Gnarly Barley brewery. The beer became available on draft in the brewery and will be sold in a 12-ounce can everywhere else. “It’s very easy to drink, and I think it’s going to be something that is super awesome to have around for football season especially,” said Co-founder and Creative course of your career. LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) You’ve been your usual busy-bee self, gathering nectar wherever you can find it. But now’s a good time to kick back, relax and just enjoy smelling the roses. SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) That pesky personal situation seems to be improving. But change comes slowly, so be patient. Expect someone to bring more positive news by week’s end. SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Whoa! Ease up on that hectic pace you’ve been putting yourself through. Take time to recharge your energy levels before going full gallop again. CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Try to be intrigued, not intimidated, by the issues you’re suddenly facing, and you’ll be ahead of the game. Don’t be afraid to demand answers to your questions. AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) New associates freezing you out of their inner circle? Never mind. Put a warm smile on that friendly face of yours, and you’ll soon thaw them all down to size. PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Your wise guidance helps colleagues agree to compromise and move forward. Meanwhile, there are still vital issues you need to deal with in your personal life. BORN THIS WEEK: You enjoy being free with your emotions, but you also can exercise disciplined focus. You would make a fine artist.
Mon and Wed Nights 6pm-Close
COLLEGE NIGHT
$9.00 PITCHERS! $1.50 GAMES! 1612 West Thomas St. Hammond, LA 70401
Director of Gnarly Barley Cari Caramonta. The summer heat did not stop people from showing up at the brewery and celebrating the unveiling of the beer. Roomie along with the Lions cheerleading team made an appearance at the party, showing their support. Zac and Cari Caramonta were glad to also see the support from the community and the university. “It was very awesome,” said Cari Caramonta. “We’re super excited that so many people came out. Even though it wasn’t the coolest day in the world, people still came out and supported us. Every other person that came through the door had something Gnarly
Barley or Southeastern on. It’s super cool to see.” A portion of the proceeds from the beer will be dedicated to student alcohol abuse prevention on campus. The beer will only be sold for football season as of now but will possibly be sold all year-round for baseball season within the next few years. “Production is just really crazy right now, but as soon as we get some things spaced, it will definitely become part of the plan possibly next year,” said Zac Caramonta. Former alumni were present to support the university and
see GNARLY BARLEY PARTY, pg.17
Page 16 | August 15, 2017
Arts & Entertainment
CROSSON EXPERIMENTS WITH: LIGHT & SPACE
Adam Crosson, the new assistant professor of sculpture at Tulane, displayed his artwork including light sculptures at CAG. Zachary Araki/The Lion’s Roar By Zachary Araki - Staff Reporter Adam Crosson experimented with space and light in the exhibition “Adam Crosson: The Four-Pointed Triangle” at the Contemporary Art Gallery. Crosson graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 2016 with a Master of Fine Arts in sculpture and extended media. He accepted an assistant professor of sculpture position at Tulane University. “In the span of a year, I went from catching rides in the back of pickups along the Kuhio Highway to pulling allnighters leading up to critique deadlines,” said Crosson. “Those two periods of time were certainly influential, and the qualities of each could be considered bookends to my practice, one improvisational and the other highly structured at times to a fault. I continue to work toward a reckoning of these seeming polarities.”
Newkirk says the large sculpture coming off one of the walls is his favorite piece. “All of them are placed in relationship to the gallery, the walls of the gallery and the space in the gallery, but this one, the way it cantilevers out into the space is very dynamic,” said CAG Director Dale Newkirk. “When you walk by the gallery at night, it changes the look of the gallery and kind of invites you to want to investigate it more. I also think it’s really changed the space how the artist changed the lights in the gallery to these pink lights and turned the other gallery lights off, which creates an island inside of the gallery where these smaller pieces are.” Crosson included photographs shot in Louisiana beside his light sculptures. “By switching them over to shooting the negative rather than the positive image, he’s experimenting with light more, which is kind of like
what he’s doing with the sculptures,” said Newkirk. The exhibition title alludes to geographic points on a map travelled over time. “The uttterance speaks of trajectories known and unknown, of pit stops along the way, of occupation, change, movement and of wholeness and completion and the problematics arising out of the language of boundary, line, perimeter and the binary of interior, exterior,” said Crosson. “As much as the tracings of the four-pointed triangle appear to consist solely of lines, the lines themselves, the tracings are conduits containing time, textures and extents all to themselves. Four-
Pointed Triangle speaks of improbabilities, of missing and imperceptible data, of questions of faith and will and in what and of whom.” The closing reception is on Aug. 17 at noon. Incoming students and the public can attend free of charge. “I think that the students will enjoy how this show really radically changes with the gallery,” said Newkirk. “If they’re familiar with space and how the artist is using the space and light, I think it will be different than what they’re used to and what they normally think of as art. If they come into it thinking about paintings or traditional statues and sculptures, that’s not what they’re going to see.”
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Rediscovery
The Lion’s Roar | 17
Arts & Entertainment
THROUGH LOCAL ACOUSTIC SETS
Local sociology graduate student Jenn Rees, otherwise known by her stage name OAKES, returned to two local stages following an eight-month hiatus that resulted in self-reflection and personal growth. Larshell Green/The Lion’s Roar By Larshell Green - Editorin- Chief Sociology graduate student Jenn Rees managed to pave a path for herself in the world of acoustic music outside of the classroom. Rees, known by her stage name OAKES, recently returned to the stage after an GNARLY BARLEY PARTY
continued from pg. 15
partnership with Gnarly Barley. “I’ve been a huge fan of them since the beginning,” said former Lions football kicker Harris Beall. “When Southeastern partners with them to create Lion Up beer, you have to go out and show support. The beer is delicious. It has a nice fragrance to it, and it’s really light. It’s going to be perfect for tailgating for sure.”
eight-month hiatus. She is known for performing sets of original songs and covers in a variety of genres at local bars, restaurants, private parties and festivals. Her first performance following the hiatus was at Tacos & Beer in New Orleans on Thursday, July 20. Rees returned to Hammond’s Tacos Current students are also excited for the beer and how the university will now join Louisiana State University and University of Louisiana at Lafayette in having their own official licensed beer. “Me and my friend were just talking about how cool it is to have a beer for the school,” said graduate student history major Scott Cooper. “Southeastern does not have a lot of things, but this is something cool that you can look at and say it’s for Southeastern.”
& Beer on Saturday, July 22 to perform. Rees admits that she has dedicated the past year to personal reflection and growth. “I had to take some time to rediscover and work on myself as an artist,” said Rees. “Performances require a lot of energy and emotion, and I had to take some time to ground myself and explore my emotional side in full.” The decision to return to performing at Tacos & Beer was due to her history with the two establishments. “The Tacos & Beer performances in NOLA are always a good time,” said Rees. “The staff there is so incredibly welcoming, and that always makes for a good gig.” Rees admitted that following her return she has only had positive reactions to her performances. She shares what she appreciates about performing in Hammond. “The biggest difference in performing for crowds in Hammond is how laid-back the overall energy is,” said Rees. “I love seeing familiar faces, and it’s humbling to have people who look forward to coming out and showing support.” Rees was introduced to music when her mother confiscated her video gaming system as a child. “My mom took away our
Nintendo the summer before my 9th birthday and filled the house with instruments,” said Rees. “I picked up a guitar and 16 years later, voilà.” Rees explains that although most songs that she performs are covers, she always finds a way to make performances her own. “As far as songs go, it’s either requests, random or just a song that I hear in passing and really enjoy,” said Rees. “I always try to put my own spin on things though.” Some performers prefer to use the stage as an opportunity to transmit creativity to audiences, but Rees finds performing to be therapeutic. “The best thing about returning to the stage was the feeling of letting it all out vocally,” said Rees. “Performing really pushes me mentally, emotionally and physically.” Although Rees has not confirmed plans about her future ventures in the art and music world, she has her sights on a simple gift that she can give the world: kindness. “I haven’t really given much thought to leaving a legacy,” said Rees. “I just try to live in a way that inspires people to be the best they can be. Life is short. Kindness is a superpower. We all have the power to make the world brighter.”
This Week’s Puzzle AnsWers
Page 18 | August 15, 2017
Theatre Events
Arts & Entertainment
Fall 2017 to Spring 2018
By Annie Goodman- Staff Reporter The theatre program puts on two shows each semester. There
are two in the fall semester along with a performance by Alpha Psi Omega. In the spring, they present the winning
play from the Inkslinger competition. Another annual fall event is Hammond Horror Fest where students participate
in a 24-hour play writing competition which includes a performance on-stage to round off the performance.
Much Ado About Nothing
When the Rainbow is Enuf
August 28-29 at 7:30 p.m.
September 26-29 at 7:30 p.m.
“Often, I’ve found people are a little intimidated or uncertain when it comes to Shakespeare, but in reality, he wrote to entertain,” said Elisabeth Odom, director and recent university and Alpha Psi Omega alumna. “We have
been striving to break that barrier and make it so that whether you have only heard of the name Shakespeare or are a scholar on the subject, you can enjoy the experience. This show has a little something for everyone.”
“It is a very liberating body of work that calls attention to relevant issues within our society such as race, class and oppression through the lens of African-American women,” said Director Sarah Balli about “For Colored Girls who have
Considered Suicide/When The Rainbow is Enuf.” “Although it is a show ‘for colored girls,’ as the playwright puts it, it is my hope that people of every race and gender will leave feeling enlightened and empowered.”
Hammond Horror Fest
She Kills Monsters
October 20-21, event times TBA
November 7-10 at 7:30 p.m.
“Established in October 2011, the Hammond Horror Fest is designed to embrace the contributions, tastes and cultural energies that local, professional and student artists bring to this region,” said Media Coordinator for the Hammond Regional Arts Center Tara Bennett. “We take
a gritty approach to the kind of art in this festival because it’s a fun means of expression, it’s a different way to celebrate the Halloween season, and it’s also a great way to support local artists and the organization’s philanthropy, the American Cancer Society.”
This 2011 dramatic comedy written by Qui Nguyen and directed by James Winter is an exploration into “geek culture” and the process of grieving the loss of a loved one. After the death of her teenage sister, Tilly, Agnes Evans discovers one of Tilly’s “Dungeons
& Dragons” quest. Agnes quests into the game’s world in order to learn more about her late sister and ultimately find closure. Along the way, she encounters friends who were inspirations for Tilly’s characters and a side of her sister she had never known.
The Crucible April 24-27 at 7:30 p.m.
Life on the Moon February 27- March 2 at 7:30 p.m.
Anna Tatelman won the 2017 Inkslinger Playwriting Competion for her play “Life on the Moon.” Being chosen as the winner means the university’s theatre program
will be the first to present the production. The play will be presented during the Spring 2018 semester and will be directed by James Winter.
“It focuses on the hysteria of the Salem witch trials,” said Director Chad Winters. “The idea of using fear to manipulate is still relevant to us today. In this age of information overload, it’s easy to get spooked and to overreact to what’s going on. It was a cautionary tale back when Miller first wrote it in response to being labeled a communist by the House Un-American Activities Committee in McCarthy’s hunt
for communists in the United States federal government, Hollywood, universities and elsewhere. We still need to heed Miller’s warning to not be closedminded and having a circular logic when confronted with outside threats. For Salem, it was the devil, and today for many, the devil continues among many other social and political issues that we may want to hunt down out of fear.”
The Lion’s Roar | 19
sporTs
New season, new vigor, new goals By Sarah Hess - Staff Reporter The university has several sports teams that compete in conferences during the fall that are composed of football, soccer, volleyball, men and women’s basketball and golf. The university’s football team placed third in winloss ratio in the Southland Conference in fall 2016. “Game one, obviously that’s the biggest focus right now,” said football Head Coach Ron Roberts. “We’re all focused on us. It’s all about us right now, how good we can get and how good of a team we can become in the next three weeks.” Football Assistant Coach and Offensive Coordinator
Matt Barrett explains the staff’s expectations of the players and the team’s approach to preparing for this year’s competitors. “We expect to play really well 11 times,” said Barrett, who is also a quarterback coach for the team. “They expect that too. A common theme in our building is just improve every day and keep getting better, honor the process. We’re just focused dayby-day right now.” The men’s basketball team has set high goals for themselves such as reaching the Division I National Championship, but the main focus that men’s basketball Head Coach Jay Ladner wants for his team is to strive for the Southland Conference Championship. “I really feel like we have
an opportunity to compete for the league title,” said Ladner. “Really for the first time since we’ve been here, we’ve had some teams that have made some really great progress over the last few years, and I will certainly be disappointed if we can’t make a run at the conference championship.” The Lady Lions basketball team finished the 2016 season with an overall 5-24, and hopes for a more solid foundation in the 2017 season due to their program having more consistency. “Obviously, we’re looking to get better and win more games,” said women’s basketball Head Coach Ayla Guzzardo. “Have a successful season as we call it. Ideally, we’re looking for leadership. We’re looking for
competition between each player during each practice, and we’re just looking to get better overall in the community, in competition and in the classroom. We’re just looking overall to get better in all three aspects.” Guzzardo also lists the teams she believes will be the strongest competition and who the Lady Lions will be more aware of going into this season. “All the Louisiana schools are our biggest rivals to us,” said Guzzardo. “We’re also looking at the top part of our conference. Stephen F. Austin, Central Christian and Lamar are going to be very good. We’re just taking each game step-by-step, and we’re going to have a different
see FALL SPORTS , pg.21
Page 20 | August 15, 2017
Sports
Sean Brady and Corey Mistretta gain new coaching opportunities for fall We have done some amazing things with the guys here at national and international level.” After Brady took the job offer, one of the first things he did was talk to Artigues to ask him to name Mistretta as the new head coach of the team, and Artigues took his advice. “He really believed that I was in a position to move forward,” said Mistretta. “Of course for human resources reasons, they did a search and accepted a whole bunch of applications. I’m thankful that Coach Artigues, through that process, felt I was the
Track and field and cross country Head Coach Corey Mistretta, right, worked under former head coach Sean Brady, left, for three years. When Brady made the decision to leave he suggested that Mistretta take his place. Courtesy of Sports Information By Jonathan Rhodes- Staff Reporter Sean Brady has ended his 17-year run with the Lions track and field and cross country team and has taken the opportunity to be the assistant coach for Texas A&M. Corey Mistretta was announced as the new head coach of track and field and cross country on July 24 by Athletic Director Jay Artigues. Mistretta is grateful for the opportunity to be the head coach at his alma mater. “I’m super excited,” said Mistretta. “It’s extremely humbling to be able to follow in the footsteps of a
guy like Andy Thiel who is a hall of fame coach here at Southeastern and gave me my opportunity to be part of the program 33 years ago. It’s almost surreal that I am able to do what he did, and I admired him so much for what he was doing.” Mistretta served three years as a recruiting coordinator, assistant coach and Associate Head Coach under Brady, and has a lot of respect for what he accomplished. “To follow directly behind what Coach Brady has done here is unprecedented,” said Mistretta. “He has put the team on the map nationally.
guy to lead the team.” Mistretta hopes to continue the program along the path that it has been going on with athletes competing at national and international levels. “One of the great things about Coach Brady was that he gave the assistant coaches a lot of autonomy,” said Mistretta. “He and I had a lot of conversations about the direction of the team and how we needed to change things up. We paired the team back a little bit and made it smaller so that we can bring in kids that can develop into national level competitors.”
The Lion’s Roar | 21
Sports
Lions prepare gridiron battle for season kickoff By Jonathan Rhodes- Staff Reporter It’s that time of the year again when college and professional football become the highlight of the weekend. The Lions football team is preparing for the 2017 season and making decisions for their final roster. One of those roster decisions is the starting quarterback battle among returning junior quarterback Donovan Isom, transfer sophomore quarterback Lorenzo Nunez and senior quarterback Micah Thomas. “We have the same standard for all of them,” said Assistant Coach Matt Barrett. “We expect them to play tough, expect them to take care of the ball, and expect them to not put the team
Lions football is gearing up for the upcoming season through fall camp. Jonathan Rhodes/The Lion’s Roar in bad situations.” It is possible that the Lions will run a two-quarterback offense, but as of now the competition is for one quarterback to be the starter.
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“Right now, we’re not going to a two-quarterback system or anything like that,” said Head Coach Ron Roberts. “We’re going through the competition, and we will see how it is. If we have two of them that are helping us win and are playing at a high level then we’ll play two. But first, we want to see the competition and see one of them take the job.” Isom has been waiting for this opportunity to fight for the starting quarterback job after getting an elbow injury last fall camp. He believes that he has been groomed up to this point by previous quarterbacks. “Looking up to Justin and D’Shaie, they were two pretty good quarterbacks, and they were more like mentors for me, like my big brothers,” said Isom. “It was good to learn from them. I feel like they helped me
get more prepared for fall camp this year and the season.” Roberts will be the defensive coordinator again this season. He believes in this year’s defense. “I think we will be a lot more disciplined this year,” said Roberts. “I think we got a lot more experienced guys that understand the expectations that I expect and how we need to get things done.” Senior linebacker Sione Teuhema is looking to get comfortable in his position of linebacker this season. Teuhema played defensive lineman at Louisiana State University and switched to linebacker after transferring to the Lions. “I like the standup linebacker position,” said Teuhema. “I like to push myself to something different and to play a new position.”
FALL SPORTS
2 with a match at University of Louisiana at Lafayette. The first golf tournament, Sam Hall Intercollegiate, will be held Sept. 10. The men’s basketball schedule has not been released yet. The women’s basketball team has an exhibition game against LSU Alexandria Nov. 3.
continued from pg. 19 game plan for each game.” The fall season kicks off with the soccer team having a match against Jackson State University Aug. 18. Volleyball has a Green and Gold match Aug. 22. Football begins Sept.
The Lion’s Roar | 23
Sports
a love for the game
By Sarah Hess- Staff Reporter
Senior athletes of all university sports were contacted about how they feel about being an athlete. However, some of the senior athletes could not be reached for comments.
Maverick Bowleg, Track and Field Marketing
Tytiana Hall, Basketball Kinesiology
Maddie Kresevic, Soccer Accounting
Eddy Polanco, Basketball Business
“What I love most about being a Southeastern athlete is the love and support I receive from students, coaches, teammates and facility members. Also, a lot of people know who I am and some of them look up to me. This pushes me to be a better person, student and athlete.”
“I love the challenge that comes with being a student athlete and representing my school with my teammates.”
“I just really love the school spirit and pride that I get to take in my school. As an athlete, I’ve learned so much about myself. I’ve learned to work hard and be prideful in my school. There’s just something so special about being able to have that title, and I feel so privileged to have it.”
“What I love most about being a Southeastern athlete is the family feeling I receive while on campus and in the community. The community and campus feel connected with you after seeing you play and make sure you always feel at home.”
Kim Porche, Soccer Kinesiology
Taylin Underwood, Basketball Kinesiology
Bre’zall Warren, Basketball Communication
“I love that I’m part of a big family. We all are there for each other no matter what, and although we may not get along 100 percent of the time, we will always have each other’s back.”
“Southeastern and the town are very supportive of their athletes on campus. All of the teams support each other and are very tight-knit, and it makes being an athlete something even bigger. I’ve made lifelong friendships with teammates on and off the field.”
“I love building relationships with my teammates outside of athletics, having game nights, Dominoes, cookouts and sharing different cultural experiences. Being at Southeastern, I feel proud to be a lion. “
Daijah Washington, Track and Field Kinesiology “I love getting to meet new people on and off the track.”