Issuu

December 9, 2014 Volume 86, Issue 15

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

A Student Publication

Campus Life Page 2

Opinions Page 4

Arts & Entertainment Page 6

Sports Page 8

News Page 10

Christmas time is here

LionsRoarNews.com

Inside the ‘Roar’

The Lion’s Roar / Heather Jewell

see DANCE pg. 7

The Lion’s Roar / Sara Patrick

Anna and Elsa, two characters from the popular Disney movie “Frozen,” ride in the 2014 Hammond Christmas Parade. Elsa used her magic to rain snow down on the city of Hammond on last Friday night as the parade made its way around campus and through downtown.

By Jay Love Sports Editor

Christmas spirit filled the hearts of those who attended the 56th installment of the annual Hammond Christmas Parade. This year’s theme was “It’s a beautiful night in the city of Hammond.” This year’s parade was last Friday, Dec. 5. The parade was filmed by Florida Parishes Television. Groups and organizations joined in to help the Hammond Rotary Club put on the parade, which was sponsored by the Hammond Downtown Development District Authority. Daryl Ferrara of the Hammond Rotary Club described what the organization had in mind for this year’s parade.

“We were hoping to provide a fun-filled family atmosphere to the Hammond Community,” said Ferrara. Mayson Foster served as this year’s grand marshal. Foster served as the mayor of Hammond between 20032014. “It was an honor for me to serve the citizens of our great city for the past twelve years. As I rode along in the parade, I was astounded by the number of people that yelled ‘Thank you, Mayor Foster.’ It is great that the people appreciate the service that our public officials give to their communities,” said Foster. “This was the largest crowd that I have ever seen for any event in Hammond. The weather was perfect and the paradegoers were well behaved.”

Both students and community members got involved in the preparation of the parade. “There are six bands participating from Southeastern so we are really excited about that,” said Terry Lynn Smith of the Hammond DDD. “There are a lot of Southeastern students that come out, and it is great to have them out there.” This year marked the first time the Hammond DDD has sponsored the parade, despite having participated in the parade for several years. Participants in the parade were judged in one of four categories: automobiles, commercial floats, noncommercial floats and walking groups. Each category featured first, second and third place awards for those who

participated. First place in the automobile category went to Mgm Mini Storage and U-Haul. Taking first place in the commercial floats was Star Equipment. Chic-fil-A was close behind in second place. Winning the non-commercial category was the Rotary Club of Hammond. Second place awards in the category went to the Amite Oyster Festival. Lastly, the top walking group of the parade as chosen by the judges was Sweet Home Missionary Baptist Church. Two dance academies followed behind the church in the ranking. Lemoine Academy of Dance and Dance Revolutions placed second and third, respectively.

see PARADE pg. 3

Staff Reporter

The Nutcracker performance is once again coming to the Columbia Theatre. Hammond Ballet has been producing The Nutcracker in Hammond for nearly two decades. This will be their 18th production, and they are continuing to hold the community’s rapt interest. The backdrops, props and costumes all hold similarities to the national level productions of The Nutcracker; Artistic Director Janey Neyrey also adapts choreography each year to the dancers’ ability and adds in new characters, costumes and props as well. Her husband, Shawn Neyrey, builds the props for the show; some of his creations include the Ice Queen’s white swan and the walnut boat. Dancers are sometimes given multiple roles depending on their availability and the expertise of each performer. The casting has become a family event in the past; parents are cast in adult roles and have multiple children performing in the show with them. The Hammond Ballet has no public funding or private sponsors,

so parents who volunteer are crucial to the production and fundraiser tea. The production’s performers are students of the Hammond Ballet Company, with dancers being as young as four years old. “They look so cute in their costumes, dancing on stage. These are kids that people know in the community, so everyone comes to see them,” said Roy Blackwood, Columbia Theatre’s interim director. Along with the students of the Hammond Ballet Company, Andrea Marciel de Faria and Daniel Benavides, two professional dancers, will perform in The Nutcracker this year. Benavides is from Anaheim, California and joined the Orlando Ballet Company in 2006. He is returning for his second performance with Hammond Ballet, his first time was in 2012, when he also performed in their production. Faria was born in Brazil and has since traveled to Germany and continued her studies under the tutelage of Hans-Joachim Tappendorf. She has performed as the female lead in productions, such as Princess Aurora in Sleeping Beauty

see NUTCRACKER pg. 3

Follow the Roar Stay connected. Like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram @lionsroarnews.

see FOOTBALL pg. 8

The Lion’s Roar / Tamara Alexander

see RING CEREMONY pg. 10

Business speaker to address fall graduates

Annual ‘Nutcracker’ ballet returning to Columbia By Heather Jewell

Public Information / Randy Bergeron

By Emily Stephan Copy Editor

Courtesy of the Hammond Ballet Company

Andrea Faria and Daniel Benavides will perform as guest artists with the Hammond Ballet Company for the upcoming Nutcracker performance.

Weather Tuesday H 70 L 34

Central American businessman José Barrios Ng is scheduled to speak at commencement for the fall 2014 graduating class, where he will also be presented with an honorary doctorate degree from the university. Barrios is one of the most renowned business leaders of present times, notably having made recent efforts to modernize the Panama Canal. A graduate of Louisiana State University’s class of 1970 with a bachelor of science degree specializing in electrical engineering, Barrios went on to procure a master’s degrees from the Georgia Institute of Technology and the University of California shortly afterward. Today, he is the president and CEO of ABCO Global and Capital Finance. Barrios is also a major philanthropist, supporting the causes of single mothers, indigenous peoples and the future improvement of the education systems in both Central America and the United States.

see GRADUATION pg. 3

Reminders Wednesday H 59 L 34

The deadline to return rental textbooks without a late fee is Monday, Dec. 15 at 6 p.m.

Campus Life

Page 2 December 9, 2014

The Lion’s Roar

Communication seniors honored By Sara Patrick Editor in Chief

Each semester, seniors majoring in communication have to take the Communications 498 course in which they must pass a comprehensive exam and write an extensive senior thesis. After preparing all semester, 23 seniors presented their theses at the 10th Annual Senior Colloquium last week. “The colloquium started in 2004,” said Dr. Claire Procopio, who teaches and advises students in Comm. 498. “It was Dr. Mirando’s idea, so we had him do the welcome this year as part of that. He’s had 10 years of helping students to write theses, and this is the culmination of that effort.” The colloquium was held on The Lion’s Roar / Fernanda Chagas Friday, Dec. 5 at 9 a.m. This year’s Tiana, a dog in training to one day aid patients dealing with mental illness, visits campus to help those that pass by deal with the stress and anxiety of finals week topics included music, social media, public relations, changing through pet therapy. This is the first time pet therapy was brought to campus to help relax students in a time that may be stressful. depictions of women and more. Four students gave presentations in each room. After all presentations were complete, the department honored all of the students at a pinning ceremony educate people on mental illness and how to hide how they are currently feeling from other sponsored by the National By William Schmidt help those who have it. people. Staff Reporter Organizational Communication Research has shown that pet therapy is a “There is just this sense of calm that they Association, where the seniors To help relieve stress and those dealing way in which people are able to get relief from bring,” said Tara MacInnes working on her were given a pin they can wear at with mental illness, NAMI hosted pet therapy negative emotions. masters in clinical mental health counseling. graduation. last Wednesday. According to the webmd website, “Studies “Dogs have a sense of understanding that “In 2007, Alex Juan, who is According to the organization’s website, show that animals can reduce tension and people don’t always understand, and dogs can one of our alumni and is here “NAMI is the National Alliance on Mental improve mood. Along with treatment, pets just be beneficial to people.” for the celebration, got a student Illness, the nation’s largest grassroots mental can help some people with mild to moderate Those pursuing a career in counseling also organization to help raise money health organization dedicated to building depression feel better.” can gain knowledge of real world experience. for pins,” said Procopio. “In 2008, better lives for the millions of Americans Along with helping people’s emotions, “I’m getting my masters in counseling and we added the tradition of pinning affected by mental illness. NAMI advocates the webmd website explains how pet studying for local mental care counseling,” each of our seniors, which we’ve for access to services, treatment, supports and therapy can also help with uncomplicated said MacInnes. “My dogs are in the middle of continued. They were selling research and is steadfast in its commitment to love, responsibility, activity, routine, being trained as therapy dogs so hopefully they T-shirts so we can afford to buy raise awareness and build a community for companionship, social interaction, physical will work for me with clients in the future.” pins for the next generations of To learn more about NAMI, visit their students coming through.” hope for all of those in need.” contact of others and provide better health. NAMI is not only at Southeastern to Dogs can help a person who is going website or contact the President at melanie. Four students received special help students with mental illness but also to through a time of troubles even if they may mann@selu.edu. awards. Rachell Sons was honored

Pets relieve finals stress

for having the Best Paper of Fall 2014. Sons’ research explored the effects of trainer credibility on trainee satisfaction in the restaurant industry. “The thesis papers themselves have gotten longer, stronger, better over time,” said Procopio. “We think that it’s an opportunity for our students to show what they can do. We had a real strong group of papers come through.” The Honorable Mention Professor’s Choice for Best Paper went to Rita West, whose paper and presentation were a feminist rhetorical criticism of the Dove Campaign for Real Beauty. “It feels fantastic to be done with my thesis and the colloquium,” said West. “At the beginning of the semester I was freaking out thinking I would never be able to do this and get it done, but with the help of all the professors, especially Dr. Procopio, it was definitely doable. I’m really proud of the work I’ve done.” The Honorable Mention Reader’s Choice for Best Paper went to Brittney Peterson, who looked at how relationships portrayed on sitcoms can influence personal beliefs and expectations in intimate relationships. “I actually built on my prospectus, so it’s research I’ve been working on for a year,” said Petersen. “To be able to just present it and get it out feels really good. I’m glad it’s over.” The third Honorable Mention was a Congeniality award given to someone who always had a positive attitude, came to class ready to work and inspired others throughout the semester. Mr. Congeniality was awarded to Micah Jones.

UPD receives grant to prevent impaired driving By Morgan Ledet Staff Reporter

The University Police Department has been awarded a grant to prevent impaired driving. The grant is to let officers work overtime in helping to prevent driving impaired or without a seat belt. The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission also awarded the department the grant in order to conduct additional traffic safety enforcement. This gives the police permission to work overtime to help better the community and prevent fatal accidents. The overtime allows officers to work day and night for occupant protection and impaired driving enforcement. The UPD also decided to team up with the LHSC and the National Highway Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) “Click It or Ticket” and “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaigns. “Our students and employees

travel the parish roads every day and commute from surrounding parishes,” said Lt. Patrick Gipson. “We want everyone to arrive at their destination safely. That’s why we conduct highway safety enforcement.” The amount of alcohol related fatalities has decreased since the year of 2009, and the police are using this grant to help that number keep decreasing. The amount of alcohol crashes related was about 40 percent this year. That percentage has also decreased since 2009. The number of fatalities that have happened due to not wearing a seat belt has increased just over the past two years. Also, the amount of passengers ages six and older not wearing a seat belt has increased since last year. “Enforcement is only part of the effort,” said Harold Todd, director of University Police. “We will be collaborating with local partners to educate our students about safe driving habits.”

The UPD is also parternirng with local organizations, including Reshaping Attitudes for Community Change (TRACC), Peer Educators Educating Peers (PEEPS), the Hammond City Police Department, Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office and Louisiana State Police. “Our efforts are part of a community-wide effort to save lives,” said Todd. “If everyone works together and encourages their friends to drive safely, we can make our parishes’ roadways some of the safest in Louisiana.”

These measures are being taken to protect the lives of the residents in Hammond because they are 14th out of all parishes in the state for alcohol-related fatal and injury crashes. It is first in the state for unrestrained fatalities. The parish is hoping this money will help take drunk drivers off the road and keep

people safe. “The primary goal of the grant is to reduce fatal and injury crashes on Louisiana roadways,” said Gipson. “The grant provides funding for officers to work overtime conducting day and night occupant protection and impaired driving enforcement.” For more statistics and

information on “Click It or Ticket It” or “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaigns, visit lahighwaysafety.org.

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Campus Life

The Lion’s Roar

December 9, 2014 Page 3

Parade brings holiday cheer to town PARADE continued from pg. 1

The Lion’s Roar / Sara Patrick

Soline and Jim Pedro (left), who are serving as the King and Queen for the Krewe of Omega XXIX parade that will roll in February 2015, wave to the crowd at the 2014Hammond Christmas Parade. Many local organizations put together decorative floats from which they threw beads and candy. A few floats even offered live musical entertainment such as caroling (right). GRADUATION continued from pg. 1 “Mr. Barrios has been a long-standing friend to the university,” said President John Crain. “He is an active member of the Rotary Club, as well as several philanthropic boards. He is known for his support of social development efforts in Central America, is a leader in supporting the advancement of indigenous peoples, including single mothers and supports efforts to improve the lives of those who live in high risk communities.” Barrios has had an impact on the state of Louisiana as well with his attempts to modernize the Panama Canal in recent years. “Significantly, he facilitated the Panama Canal’s support to the State of Louisiana’s efforts to develop the International

Jose Barrios Transfer Terminal that will facilitate trade into and out of Louisiana,” said Crain. “More recently, he worked with the Louisiana Committee of 100, the US Commercial Services and Southeastern and its Hispanic Business Institute to implement the Executive Commercial Mission to Panama in order to expand business relations between Louisiana and Panama.”

In addition, Barrios’ notable achievements extend to the university itself. “For more than seven years now, Mr. Barrios has supported efforts to improve the internationalization of the Southeastern campus and Louisiana,” said Crain. “He supports our study abroad programs, addresses our students, mentors our faculty on global and maritime issues and works with our faculty to improve the economic wellbeing of our region.” The commencement ceremony will take place at the University Center on Saturday, Dec. 13. The procession will begin at 10 a.m. For more information on the commencement, contact the Office of the President via phone at 985-549-2280 or email at rmarshall@selu.edu or chrissie@selu.edu.

The ultimate goal set forth by whoever sponsors the parade tends to remain the same. “It seems like a great way to get Hammond ready for the Christmas season,” said Smith. Despite the warm wintery night, the spirit of Christmas was enjoyed by attendees. “The parade got me in the Christmas mood even though the weather feeling so takes a little bit of it away,” said Reese Furrow, marketing major. “It was my first time to make it out for the Hammond parade. It was nice way to ring in the season.” For more information on events put on by the Hammond DDD, visit their website at dddhammond. com. News and information about the Hammond Rotary club can be found on hammondrotary.com.

Wind Symphony utilized as music recruitment tool By Melanie Mann Staff Reporter

Inspired by “Dies Irae,” a Latin hymnal death chant detailing the apocalypse, “Red Cape Tango” is a musical piece written by Michael Daugherty to represent Superman’s battle to the death with Doomsday. According to Daugherty’s website, this “dance of death” is conceived as a tango, which begins in soft, solemn melody and becomes increasingly loud and erratic with emphatic sounds of crash cymbals, brake drums and timpani drums as the suspense builds in the dramatic altercation. This was the opening piece performed by Southeastern’s Wind Symphony on Friday, Dec. 5 in Pottle Auditorium as part of the annual High School Honor Band Festival. The festival is held each year with the goal of recruiting musically talented high school students to the university’s music department. “This concert is always NUTCRACKER continued from pg. 1 and Cinderella in Cinderella. This will be her third year performing The Nutcracker with Hammond Ballet. “It’s every little ballerina’s

on the Friday night of the festival,” said conductor of the Wind Symphony Glen Hemberger. “It’s a way for us to show off our ensemble. We have 140 high school students here, and it’s a way to show what our department has to offer.” The Wind Symphony concerts usually present compositions to match a specific theme. However, a large variety of pieces were performed to display the many colors of wind instruments as well as the range of talent within the music department. While “Red Cape Tango” was more intense and dramatic, pieces such as “Song for Lyndsay” by Andrew Boysen Jr., displayed the more beautiful, romantic side of wind instruments. John Mackey’s “Kingfishers Catch Fire” was the final piece. This piece exuberantly depicts kingfishers, brilliantly colored birds said to give the impression of bursting into flames when flying in sunlight. Because of

their shy natures, kingfishers are rarely seen by people, but when they do emerge, the sight is breathtaking. It was the beauty of these birds flying into the sunlight that Mackey was trying to portray in this piece. “We like to do something flashy at the end, and we like to show off prettier pieces,” said Hemberger. “We always try to present a variety of pieces.” Though the Wind Symphony was primarily meant to impress musically talented high school students, the performance attracted an audience as varied as the pieces performed. Current students, faculty and community members attended the performance in support of the music department. “I really love wind symphonies,” said Cheyenne Moore, freshman vocal performance major. “I always go to the performances, and I even try to plan my schedule around them. You don’t miss wind symphonies. It’s just not an option.”

dream to be Clara in the Nutcracker one day. I was surprised yet honored when my dream came true,” said Eva Delatte, this year’s Clara. “With Christmas magic and love in my own heart, I will transform myself into the little

girl who believed in Christmas magic and saved her beloved Nutcracker.” The Nutcracker performance will be Dec. 1213, at 7 p.m. Tickets are now available or can be purchased at the door.

Organizational News is due on the Friday before publication by 10 a.m., with a limit of 150 words. $

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Psi Chi

would like to congratulate the new inductees of Psi Chi. Congratulations Lauren Snowdy, Alexandra Hitt, Lena Menner, Kaysie Gray, Sarah Gauthier, Charity Williams, Heather Conn, Erin Gilbert, Megan Jenkins, Alexis Guedry, Paris Williams, Ashley Klibert, Stephanie Graphia and Georgia Shaheen. We would also like to congratulate graduating seniors as you move forward into the next step of your lives, graduate school and or careers. Congratulations Hunter Waddell, Brittany Verberne, Tanya Self, Heather Conn, Paris Williams and Alexis Guedry.

Opinions

Page 4 December 9, 2014

Merry Christmas, happy Kwanzaa and have a splendid Chanukah. If I offended you in that opening sentence, then I’m sorry, but not really. People share these phrases with good-hearted intentions yet there are businesses and organizations that don’t allow their employees or members to utter these words. Jay Love People may not be aware of this, but Sports Editor there are companies out there that ban their employees from telling customers “Merry Christmas.” According to Liberty Council, an organization that seeks out to advance religious freedom, companies that exclude any reference of “Christmas” from their businesses include Polo Ralph Lauren, RadioShack and Aerie to name a few.

The Lion’s Roar

Indeed many, if not all Christians feel the true meaning of Christmas is to celebrate the birth of Christ. But, the phrase “Have a Merry Christmas” has more to it than just enjoying the Christian holiday. As a server and bartender at a restaurant, telling customers to have a Merry Christmas as they leave has become a habit around this time of year. I do it without even thinking. As far as familyowned Mexican restaurants in Livingston Parish go, more often than not a customer will tip more generously when you say, “Merry Christmas” compared to “Happy Holidays.” I don’t really know how I would go about speaking to costumers if my boss banned the saying of “Merry Christmas.” What would I tell them as they leave? “Have a nice next several weeks as the New Year approaches” just doesn’t have the same effect to it. When somebody tells you to have a Merry Christmas, I’ve

always taken it as a sign to have an enjoyable time and live on in peace during the final wintery days of the year. I am a Catholic. Even if a waiter, pizza delivery guy or cashier tells me to have a Happy Chanukah, I will accept the comment as warmly as if that person said “Merry Christmas.” One doesn’t have to be a member of a certain religion to respect and understand what it means when I say Merry Christmas. It is something that is said to be courteous. Love and generosity are virtues that everyone should show, no matter what religion, race, gender or ethnicity a person may be. Next time you’re in line at Starbucks and the barista tells you ‘Merry Christmas’ as they hand you that gingerbread latte, don’t be offended. It would not be the Christian thing to do, but the cordial, and dare I say, kind thing to give them a “you have a Merry Christmas,” too in return.

SPEAK OUT Materialism ruins Christmas

What do you want for Christmas? Addison Meyer

Freshman, Psychology “I want money.”

Amanda Rugg

Freshman, Kinesiology “I want a new scratch post for my kitten.”

Chase Richardson

Freshman, Engineering Technology “I want a new laptop.”

Gabrielle Bodet

Sophomore, Nursing “I want to go to the Shania Twain concert in Vegas.”

Kristen Washington Sophomore, Nursing

“I want a lot of gift cards.”

Lauren Laurent

By Samantha Stephan

Sophomore, Social Work “I want a Marc Jacobs watch.”

Paiton Hebert

Sophomore, Nursing ‘I want new shoes.”

McKenzie DeSandro Staff Reporter

Rashaud McDonald

Freshman, Business Administration “I want a car, Infinity 2014.”

Sarah Brown

Freshman, Criminal Justice “I want all different kinds of books, anything from fiction to nonfiction.”

When I was a child, I thought that Christmas would bring magic, friends and family together. People are more generous and there was always a hope for a mountain of presents to open on

Christmas morning. I found myself noticing a few things over the years about the gifts I got on Christmas. Throughout the Christmas season, a lot of emphasis is put on gifts. Children create wish lists that are far longer than what parents can afford to buy, so when it comes time to open gifts, they get disappointed that everything they could have wanted wasn’t given to them. After all of the gifting is over and it comes time to actually play with the toys, I realized that there are only a few

of those things that were actually useful or entertaining to me. There were even some gifts that I had gotten that got lost within days and I would forget about them until my mother, who had spent her hard-earned money on it, asked me where it was or why I didn’t use it. Now that I’m older, I’m starting to understand what Christmas would have been like from their perspective. They work diligently throughout the year to have the money to afford enough gifts to keep their children from having a feeling of emptiness after opening their presents, only for children to feel disappointed that they didn’t get enough. Mass gift giving is bad from both ends of the spectrum. With living in a commercialized culture, children believe that the main concept behind the reasoning of Christmas is to have the best, most and trending gifts possible. Children are quick to say that,

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. 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.

“Christmas is ruined because I didn’t get the newest video game or a new stuffed animal.” Christmas is becoming less and less “magical” because of our preoccupation with gifts. Families fight or pout because of the disappointment instead of spending time with each other. The only practical way to keep this from happening is to make sure allparties have a clear idea of what the expectations for the quantity and quality of gifts should be. Whether it be a child, friend or significant other, it’s best to give slight ideas as to what they will be receiving, or at least how much they will be receiving, to keep from forming unrealistic ideal. This is especially important with children. It is equally important to only give things that you know will be useful or meaningful. No one likes giving or getting gifts that are just being propped on a shelf.

Additional copies may be purchased for 50 cents in Mims Hall Room 128. Annual mail subscriptions are $35 within the continental U.S. The Lion’s Roar, in its print form, associated Web sites and CD/DVD versions are designated public forums. Student editors have the authority to make content decisions without censorship or prior approval. The Lion’s Roar also defends the rights of student journalists relative to freedom of speech and press as stated in Amendment I of the Constitution of the United States of America. The Lion’s Roar is published through the Office of Student Publications, part of the Division for Student Affairs. It is published weekly during regular semesters and monthly during the summer semester.

Editor in Chief Assistant/A&E Editor Copy Editor Campus Life Editor Sports Editor

Sara Patrick Allison Crady Emily Stephan Megan Simon Jay Love

Distribution Tyler Kennedy Advertising Assistants Ashley Guillot Taylor Bergeron Office Assistants Katherine Langley Administrative Assistant Heather Collins Coordinator Lorraine F. Peppo Director Lee E. Lind

Contact General Offices Mims Hall Room 128 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

Opinions

The Lion’s Roar

Union expansion

Black History Month

Students watched as the new Student Union structure rose over the past year, and in the spring the doors were finally opened, offering a new variety of fast food options, the new fresh-food concept cafeteria and a grand ballroom.

December 9, 2014 Page 5

Angela Davis lecture

The former Black Panther and civil rights advocate spoke at Southeastern on prison injustice. Students voiced both positive and negative opinions regarding her lecture.

Midterm elections

Amendments 1 and 2 protected healthcare from budget cuts, leaving higher education vulnerable to them. Mayoral candidates’ platforms were discussed; Kenneth Harris was endorsed.

As many students celebrated Black History Month in February, one reporter noted the power of using peaceful messages and protests, as Rosa Park and Martin Luther King, Jr. did.

Idea of raising minimum wage

Anti-sodomy laws

Sodomy is currently illegal in Louisiana. The past legislative session proposed to change this, but it was shot down. The laws are used to discriminate against sexual minorities.

The idea of raising minimum wage from $7.25 to $10.10 was made popular by progressives in the spring of 2014, but there would have been many drawbacks to the economy if this had gone through.

Medical marijuana legislation

Student parents

Students with children face many obstacles in college, and there should be more resources and programs made available to student parents who juggle studying for classes and raising a family.

Medical marijuana has been legal in Louisiana for years, yet there is no legal way to dispense it. The past legislative session proposed a system for dispensing it, but it was shot down.

Arts versus sports

Carving in Friendship Oak

The $50 rise in the athletics fee was passed in the spring, sparking the debate over why athletics and fine arts departments are not on the same playing field for funds.

Someone carved a heart and initials into Friendship Oak. This could cause an infection and kill the beloved oak tree.

Each year the endless cycle of news starts to seem repetitive for both writers and readers, but 2014 proved interesting thanks to a new variety of issues on campus and in the local community. The Lion’s Roar produced 29 issues overall in the spring, summer and fall semesters of the school year, each week taking time to address the latest news, campus events, arts, sports and even opinions on hot topics. Taking a look back, the opinions written by our staff over the last year covered some controversies and student concerns that peaked the interests of many in Hammond.

Hobby Lobby trial

The fight for corporations’ right to religious freedom started when Hobby Lobby refused to adhere to the Affordable Care Act, part of which would require the business to fund birth control and emergency contraception for employees. Hobby Lobby won the controversial trial, allowing them to keep their doors open.

Paying student athletes

Two staff members went head to head debating the hot topic of whether or not student athletes deserve to get paid.

What fired you up this year? Did you agree with the opinions of The Lion’s Roar staff members? Many reacted to these opinions online or through Letters to the Editor. Here, we’ve compiled a festive summary of our biggest topics of debate in 2014. All of these opinions and more are available on The Lion’s Roar website, lionsroarnews.com. Student Publications will have new content when the spring semester begins. The staff hopes everyone stays safe and warm over the Christmas break, and we look forward to providing more news and opinions in 2015.

International student visas

Student visas do not allow international students to seek employment except for campus jobs, internships, etc. It was argued that these jobs do not allow international students to support themselves, so college campuses now have to support these impoverished students.

Ferguson

Olympics/World Cup

The Southeastern Sociological Association held a moment of silence for Mike Brown. While some spoke out about the injustice of the Ferguson shooting, others felt outraged by the moment of silence, saying the shooting was justifiable from the police officer’s perspective.

All eyes were glued to their TV sets for two of the largest worldwide sporting events of the year. The 2014 Olympic Games in London drew viewers in the spring, and the FIFA World Cup in Brazil brought soccer to the forefront over the summer.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

Study abroad problems

Immersive study abroad programs, which only allow students to speak the language they are studying, can put students in danger when problems arise during their stay in a foreign country.

No wi-fi in the dorms

There was no wi-fi in the dorms and on-campus apartments. Within the next year, University Housing has said they will be adding wi-fi to all on-campus residences.

Smoke-free policy

While some appreciate the health-conscious law, others are upset that smokers’ rights are being violated. It was suggested that if past policies had been enforced, the law would not have been necessary.

Gator farm child abuse allegations

A Hammond alligator farm was reported to Child Protective Services by PETA for endangering a child’s life by teaching him how to handle alligators. It was argued that the alligators were bound in such a way it would not endanger the child, and should not be considered abuse.

The national “No More” campaign sought to educate students about sexual assault and violence against women, sparking a debate on many feminist issues. Rape jokes are never OK. Body shaming is unacceptable. Men can be victims of domestic violence as well.

Years may change, but people stay the same “New Year, new you” is something I have always heard towards the end of each year. But does anybody really change just because it’s a new year? I feel the only thing that changes is the year. The year 2014 will soon become 2015, and I will be the same person. There was a point in time where I said Morgan Ledet that I would have a different attitude Staff Reporter towards life but then I wouldn’t. I always forget my New Year’s resolution. I always say, “I will change my attitude for school, eat healthier or work out.” These things never seem to stay in my mind. I say each year that I will try to be a better student. I will take more time to study and be more prepared for tests or quizzes, but I always wait till the last minute. I can honestly say that I have changed the way I studied. I am better at studying than I was in my freshman year of college. I am now a sophomore and have realized I should not wait till the night before to study for a test. This is not something that changed at the beginning of last year, but it changed because I needed to be a better student. Eating healthy is something I always say, but never do. I am picky when it comes to the food I eat. I do not eat any type of vegetables, nor do I drink milk. I always start the year by trying new things, but I still do not drink milk or eat vegetables. When it comes to working out, I am just too lazy. I don’t like the fact that I have to exercise around people. I am not really a shy person, but when I work out, I would rather be in the comfort of my own home. The closest thing I get to working out is the dance classes I take and assist on the weekends. I consider dancing my exercise even if it is only an hour on Thursdays and Fridays. All these things are just things I say. “Actions speak louder than words.” Saying I will do these things doesn’t mean anything. “New Year, new me” is something that sounds good, but I never act on it. I cannot be the only one who doesn’t live up to their resolutions. Many people make resolutions and claim they do everything they can to fulfill them, but we get so caught up in life that we forget the promises we make to ourselves. Maybe we should just live our lives without saying “New Year, new me.” I always feel that everything happens for a reason and maybe that is why I do not believe in New Year’s resolutions.

PAGE 6 DECEMBER 9, 2014

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

THE LION’S ROAR

Shattered Illusions

BY HEATHER JEWELL Staff Reporter

Review This weekend I went to the movies wishing to immerse myself in a storyline other than “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1.” Instead I went to “The Theory of Everything,” starring Eddie Redmayne and Felicity Jones. Based on the life of renowned physicist Stephen Hawking and his wife, Jane, viewers were given a look at the relationship between the two not previously offered. After watching it, I can say that the characters and the actors portraying them had me deeply and emotionally involved. Stephen Hawking has amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a neuro degenerative, which eventually left him in a wheelchair and dependant on a computerized voice system for communication. ALS is a foul disease that leaves its victims with muscle spasms, difficulty in speaking and swallowing; and eventually ending with paralysis; however, it does not affect the individual’s thinking process. In the movie, Hawking is told, “You’ll be able to think, but no one will know what it is you are thinking.” Redmayne’s portrayal of Hawking is phenomenal; he captures the rawness of the situation and took his acting to a different level. When the real Hawking saw the movie, there were moments when he thought it was himself he was seeing onscreen, and not just the performance of an actor according to theguardian.com. The relationship between husband and wife was far from a classic love story; their love is strengthened by a mutual respect that never ceases. From their first meeting and wedding days after Hawking begins to suffer from his disease, Jane never leaves him. She gives him affection, support and patience. Redmayne and Jones complimented each other fantastically, delivering beautiful performances that left audience members as I witnessed, speechless and teary eyed. I believe everyone would benefit from seeing this movie; it gives you something to ponder hours after the final credits, encouraging one to strive to find joy. There should be no boundaries to human endeavor. We are all different. However bad life may seem, there is always something you can do and succeed at. According to Hawking, “While there’s life, there is hope.”

The Lion’s Roar / McKenzie DeSandro

Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra performing a Yuletide Celebration at the Columbia Theatre as part of their Beethoven in blue jeans series. The orchestra plays year-round in locations all over the state.

LPO plays Yuletide Celebration BY MCKENZIE DESANDRO Staff Reporter

People from all over the North Shore filled the seats of the Columbia Theatre to see the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra perform. On Friday, Dec. 5, the orchestra performed their Yuletide Celebration to help raise Christmas spirits in Hammond. The show kicked off with the all-familiar “Sleigh Ride” written by Leroy Anderson in 1946, engaging all ages. “My favorite song so far was the first one, ‘Sleigh Ride.’ I like the original Christmas music,” said Michelle Becnel of Hammond. “It just has a sense of familiarity to it that really makes you feel good.” The show quickly took a turn into some lesser known pieces, such as “Les Patineurs,” otherwise known as “Skater’s Waltz,” and “Hansel and Gretel: Evening Prayer and Dream Pantomime.”

Both songs showcased the talent of the orchestra, particularly the violins which caused at least one audience member to recall fond memories of her father. “I keep thinking how much my dad would have loved watching all these violins,” said Susan Cook of Hammond. “He played the violin. It’s just amazing to me, since I don’t play anything, what people can do when they’re behind these instruments.” While some enjoyed the comfort of the familiar songs or the memories and feelings the music brought back, others held onto the overall spirit of the show. “I don’t think it’s any particular song, I just think it’s the spirit. It’s done in such a light-hearted way,” said Paul Hailes of Hammond. “I think the conductor particularly has got a nice sense of humor. The way he’s sort of introducing pieces is fantastic. It helps people who may not know the pieces as well settle into them, and I think his enthusiasm really comes

out through those pieces.” The aforementioned conductor, Robert Bernhardt, has worked since 1981 as the assistant conductor to “bring his unique combination of easy style, infectious enthusiasm and wonderful musicianship to the city and orchestra he loves,” according to the program given at the show. The Yuletide Celebration ended with a Christmas Sing-along with the help of Kenner guest choirs from St. Martin’s Episcopal School and KehoeFrance School, Slidell guest choirs from Clearwood Junior High School and Little Oak Middle School and Southeastern’s own Choir. The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra will have their next performance on Dec. 18 at 7:30p.m. at First Baptist Church, New Orleans. They will be performing “Outside the Bachs, Baroque Christmas.” For more information on upcoming performances and show times, visit lpomusic.com.

Excursion Weekend to present varied fine arts BY MEGAN FERRANDO Staff Reporter

When art does not come to you, you must go to it. This is the thought process of many from neighboring cities and even far away ones such as Chicago in relation to Hammond’s ﬁrst P.3+ Excursion Weekend from Jan. 9-11. “This is an excellent opportunity to have a day trip or weekend long excursion to Hammond to see many great art exhibits, live music, theatrical performances and our must-see world class installation of Giants in the City,” said Mike Kilgore, executive director of the Hammond Regional Arts Center. “It has brought together local, regional, national and international artists, including those participating in Giants in the City, to Hammond.” The P.3+ showcases regional art is an attachment to Prospect 3, a contemporary art biennial in New Orleans. The HRAC is hosting an excursion weekend where art lovers can take a bus from New Orleans, carpool from other nearby cities and ride the train from Chicago, Memphis or Jackson.

“As part of this excursion, we have invited artists from all the major destinations on the train route through Hammond to represent their communities for Prospect 3,” said Kilgore. “This includes Acre TV from Chicago, Lester Merriweather and Kenneth Alexander from Memphis and Josh Hailey from Jackson. This provides us the opportunity to partner with our counterpart organizations in those cities so that they may help us promote the rail excursion to their audience members.” At least 30 people are expected to arrive via train, 50 via bus and many more via various carpools from Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Mobile and more. Rail travelers will be greeted by the Hammond Chamber of Commerce upon arrival and receive a special track-side reception. Bus excursion participants and independent travelers will receive a welcome reception at the HRAC. The weekend begins with the First Friday Art Walk on Jan. 9 from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. The art walk will include a recycled fashion show, art exhibit and Tribal Happenings Belly Dancers. Live

music, local dining and a live body painting demonstrations, sideshow and art will be provided at The People’s Art Pop Up Gallery. The welcoming reception at the HRAC will take place Saturday, Jan. 10. Attendees will be able to see all of the exhibits, along with a second line parade as part of Feast of Flowers, performances and finally Giants in the City, a traveling exhibit of giant inflatable art sculptures created by international artists. Giants in the City will be located outdoors of Hammond Eastside Apartments all weekend long. The inflatables are capable of reaching over 45 feet high. “Giants in the City incorporates giant inflatable art sculptures within the city in public spaces, to propound the importance of art in the existing urban landscape and to celebrate the possibilities offered by this giant format, giving to the community and to the general public a contemporary visual art experience as never seen before,” said Kilgore. The weekend will end for those who purchased the P.3+ package deal with a brunch at Tope Là

Catering Sunday. The package will include a two night stay with continental breakfast, shuttle service to downtown, special closing reception at Hampton Inn and a Sunday brunch at Tope Là Catering before departing. Cost for a single person is $324 and $444

for a couple. Another available discount for P.3+ is 20 percent off the Amtrak. Aside from cost of travel and room, all of the weekend exhibits are free and open to the public. To learn more about the excursion weekend, view hammondarts.org.

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Arts & Entertainment

The Lion’s Roar

December 9, 2014 Page 7

Dancers showcase course choreography By Heather Jewell Staff Reporter

Students who wished to take a leap and spin into choreography this Fall 2014 semester took a class specifically to hone and expand their skills. The class performed this past Thursday night, showcasing all they had learned. Many styles were presented by each dancer. Faith Allen and Jaquan Warren were two soloists who incorporated their personal styles into their pieces; Allen performed a contemporary dance while Warren conducted a hip hop routine. The class was open to all currently enrolled students of the university, and is only available in the fall semesters. Students enrolled were under the tutelage of Skip Costa, a Southeastern alumnus. Costa spent ten years in New York, and returned to the South nearly two and a half years ago to take the position at Southeastern as a dance and choreography instructor. In the middle of the

semester there was a showing when individuals not in the class could go and witness the work done in the studio. They had the opportunity to determine whether or not they would like to register the following year. “If you have an interest in movement, of any style, this class will teach you not only how to move, but how to better it. Through dance you learn to better carry yourself,” said Joseph Matherne, a junior computer science major who incorporated martial arts into his own solo routine. Group numbers choreographed by each student were also presented; the group routines were all to the song “After the Storm,” by Mumford and Sons. Students could use any version of it that they found. They began working on their pieces in November with assigned practice hours. They applied their newly gained knowledge to devise their pieces. Martie Fellom, a dance

coordinator at Southeastern, was very impressed with Michaela Thanars’ group routine, in which she featured chairs for the dancers. “It was a very inventive piece of work that invited me into the piece on a personal journey, the use of the dancers and incorporating chairs was very inventive,” said Fellom. Costa wanted his students to choreograph their own interpretations of the song although he had larger plans for the dances. In the spring, the choreographers and Costa will execute one routine with every interpretation simultaneously being performed in Friendship Circle. Costa hopes more students will take an interest in the program and that it could then expand throughout campus, putting on more shows, weekly. “If you put 15 people in a room for a day with only the flooring and a stereo, you would see so many different types of movement from that one day,” said Matherne.

The Lion’s Roar / Heather Jewell

Michaela Thaners is a student in Skip Costa’s choreography class. She presented her solo and group routine before peers, Costa and Martie Fellom, who has been a dance coordinator at Southeastern for nearly 30 years.

Four choirs spread Baroque-styled holiday cheer

challenge, and I had the people to do it.” The production featured The voices of four choral several student vocal soloists, groups united to highlight the showcasing the voices of reason for the season with the Benjamin Vollentine, Brent Baroque sounds of George Goodrich, Mindy Guidroz, Frederic Handel’s “Messiah.” Caleb Porter, Rachel Davis, The University Chorus, Lauren Gibson, Bridget Concert Choir and Women’s Zeringue and Kalee Broussard. Chorale teamed with the Catherine Chrisope, graduate Northshore Choral Society student conductor, chose the last Sunday for an afternoon introduction pieces and directed Christmas concert. the Women’s Chorale. She The Department of Fine and chose “Cry Out and Shout” Performing Arts sponsored the by Knut Nystedt and “Ascribe performance, which was free to the Lord” by Rosephanye for the community. This year the Powell. program featured Part I of the “To make a nice contrast popular choral work “Messiah.” between the light, delicate “We’ve done more Baroque sound, we had a very traditional Christmas concerts rhythmic, very driving piece,” in the past, so this semester we said Chrisope. “The Baroque chose to have a blast from the style has very precise rhythms past, something familiar that and runs, and it’s difficult to people could recognize,” said sing. You can do it, but it’s Brian Martinez, director tricky.” The Lion’s Roar / Allison Crady of the University Chorus and The chosen repertoire gave Northshore Chorale. “It’s an a classic twist to the typical Benjamin Vollentine, junior vocal performance major and member of the university Concert Choir, performed a solo for the first song, “Comfort Ye My experience that most choruses Christmas concert. need to experience, and it’s “I liked [the “Messiah”] People... Ev’ry Valley Shall Be Exhalted,” kicking off the “Messiah.” been a while since Southeastern because it still tells the story of some student instrumentalists show. has done it. We were up for the Christ and Christmas, but it’s accompanied the multitude of “Alissa Rowe and I work in a different way than we’re vocalists. really closely together. She $ $ $ used to,” said Chrisope. “A lot “This is the first time I’ve prepared some of the student deepsouthstudios@yahoo.com of people are still very familiar done orchestra, and for this groups, and I prepared the big CASTING CALL with, ‘For unto us a child is style it had to be very light and group and the others just joined $25-$50 PER HOUR born,’ and the ‘Hallelujah’ delicate and couldn’t be over in,” said Martinez. “We also had Models needed for chorus, so it still kind of mixed dramatic and romantic,” said members from the community glamour and film industry. in with our Christmas stuff. It’s Chrisope. choir in St. Charles Parish that Send name, contact just not like, ‘Joy to the world,’ Dr. Alissa Rowe, director of came and sang as well.” information and recent or stuff like that.” choral activities and assistant For more information on photos to: An orchestra composed of professor of voice, worked to Fine and Performing Arts deepsouthstudios@yahoo.com hired Louisiana Philharmonic prepare the Concert Choir and events, call the department at crossword revised_Layout 1 12/05/2014 Page 1 players as well10:42 as AMthe Women’s Chorale for the 985-549-2184. $ puzzle$layout_rival $ standard Orchestra sudoku puzzle layout_Firehouse Subs_Layout 1 12/05/2014 10:48 AM Page 1

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ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Your love of the holidays creates a special bond between you and the people in your life. Use this as a way of building stronger relationships that will carry over well beyond this time. TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) A new approach could go a long way toward resolving a painful estrangement, especially at this holiday time. And since your aspects favor friendship this week, why not go ahead and try it? GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Your positives continue to dominate, and any negative factors that squeeze in can be dealt with easily. The secret is to tackle them at once and not allow them to benefit by your neglect. CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Good news: A colleague’s remarks could help you move toward ultimately resolving that persistent workplace situation. Meanwhile, enjoy the holidays with loved ones. LEO (July 23 to August 22) No one reflects the bright holiday more than all you Leos and Leonas who love the shimmer and glimmer of the season. P.S.: There just might be a very special something from Santa. VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Celebrate the holidays by being more receptive to new experiences. Overriding the Virgo reluctance to try new things could be the best gift you’ve given yourself in a long while. LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Good news about

a loved one makes the holidays even more festive. Expect some unexpected gifts, so be prepared with a few nicely wrapped packages of goodies to offer in return. SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) The holiday season provides an opportunity to meet new people, some of whom you might even consider “worthy” enough to join the Scorpio’s select group of friends. SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) You always bring your own wonderful sparkle and light to the holidays, and don’t be surprised if this year someone special reaches out to respond to your warmth in kind. CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Togetherness is the dominant theme for the Goat’s holiday celebrations this year. That means reaching out to bring everyone you care for into your very own special circle of light. AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) A reminder of a very special moment from the past makes the holidays more memorable for the romantic Aquarian. New friendships hold the promise of a romantic future as well. PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Getting into the swim of things for all you party-loving Pisceans is easy enough this holiday season. And, of course, you can expect to impress people wherever you go. BORN THIS WEEK: Your dedication brings you the success you strive for, and your generosity impels you to reach out and help others on their way up. (c) 2014 King Features Synd., Inc.