The Southern DIGEST ISSUE 5, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2018
STOP THE VIOLENCE: Volume 71 ● The sentinel of the enlightened student body at Southern University and A&M College ● Since 1926
Editorial
Jacqueline Morgan ● DIGEST Editor-in-Chief
As your eyes glance across this page, take a brief moment of silence to honor the lives that we, as a local community, lost this past weekend. This year alone, 64 people have been murdered in Baton Rouge, just 25 short of last year’s total of 89. Of the homicides this year, only 56.3% of them have been solved, a number bound to spark more violence throughout the community. Time and time again, we have been forced to become eyewitnesses to black people killing black people. Who wins when victims of circumstance collide? Between being locked away in a cell and buried six feet under, more is lost than can ever be recovered. As I pondered the calls I would receive after another young man’s life was taken from him, I feared what the reactions would be to my end of those conversations. Therefore, no, The Southern Digest does not intend to investigate the murder of former LSU basketball player Wayde Sims.
Department, what do you need? Administration, what do you need? I challenge the community to fight harder and stronger. Set aside the anger and gripes. Put down the weapons, and pick up assets: unity, peace, intellect, and humility. Reconsider what Southern University means to the ever growing future around us. Children are absorbing the environment around them at a rapid pace. It’s up to us to protect the future we hope to see. For those in need of someone to talk to, visit the BarancoHill Counseling Center as soon as possible. You are not alone, and violence is never the answer.
The local media outlets that surround the greater black community grasp onto any and every chance available to sensationalize the loss of black life. They all snatch opportunities to capture video memorials left behind, but never stroll any further to ask the community what they need. Jaguars, what do you need? Southern University Police
www.southerndigest.com
2 CAMPUS BRIEFS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY Suite 1064 – T.H.Harris Hall – P.O. Box 10180 – Baton Rouge, LA 70813 225.771.2231 Phone / 225.771.5840 Fax www.southerndigest.com The Southern DIGEST is written, edited and published by members of the student body at Southern University and A&M College. The Southern DIGEST is published once weekly (Tuesday with a run count of 3,000 copies per issue during the Southern University - Baton Rouge campus fall, spring semesters. The paper is free to students, staff, faculty and general public every Tuesday on the SUBR campus. The Southern DIGEST student offices are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday - Friday. The offices are located on the first floor of T.H. Harris Hall, Suite 1064. ISSN: 1540-7276. Copyright 2018 by The Southern University Office of Student Media Services. All articles, photographs and graphics are property of The Southern DIGEST and its contents may not be reproduced or republished without the written permission from the Editor in Chief and Director of Student Media Services. The Southern DIGEST is the official student newspaper of Southern University and A&M College located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Articles, features, opinions, speak out and editorials do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the administration and its policies. Signed articles, feedback, commentaries and features do not necessarily reflect the views of the editors, staff or student body. PUBLICATION ASSOCIATIONS The Southern DIGEST is a member of the Black College Communications Association (BCCA), National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), Associated Collegiate Press (ACP), College Media Association (CMA), Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ), Full member of the Associated Press (AP) and the Louisiana Press Association (LPA). STUDENT MEDIA PROFESSIONAL STAFF Director Heather Freeman Publications/Graphics Manager Jermaine Proshee Advertising/Sales Manager Camelia Jackson CONTACTS (Area Code 225) Advertising/Sales Office- 771.5833 DIGEST Newsroom - 771.2231 The Jaguar Yearbook/Ego Magazine - 771.5812 Southern University and A&M College at Baton Rouge is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097, telephone (404) 679-4500, Website: www.sacscoc.org.
SUBMISSIONS All submissions must be received by 3p.m. each Friday for Tuesday’s Issue. PAGE 2 is only available to officially registered campus organizations, Southern University Departments. All briefs should include a date, time, contact name & number. Submit announcements to: The Southern DIGEST Suite 1064 Harris Hall, Attn: PAGE 2 You my also email: digest@subr.edu
CORRECTIONS Fact and accuracy is our goal and our job. As the voice of the Southern University student body we are committed to ensuring to most fair, truthful and accurate accounts of our work. In the event of an error we will make all corrections on Page 2. Bring corrections to The Southern DIGEST office located in Suite 1064, Harris Hall.
What’s Happening The Southern DIGEST • TUESDAY • OCTOBER 2 • 2018
ID Office Attention students, those who are returning students do not need the new ID card at this time as your cards are still valid. Only incoming freshmen and transfer students are required to get an ID card at this time. There will be an announcement when returning students will be required to get the new ID card. CUSA Tutoring Services Interested in being a tutor? Stop by Stewart Hall Room 155 to see if you meet the requirements. For more information call 225-7712206 or email brittany_ melancon@subr.edu. Need a tutor? Stop by the tutoring center in Stewart Hall Room 155 or the CSE ISTAR Learning Center on the 1st floor of Pinchback Hall. Traffic and Parking Friendly Reminder via the Director of Traffic and Parking: Please ensure all parking tag decals are visible in vehicles, which includes: laying flat on dash or hanging from mirror. If you have more than one tag i.e. commuter decal and handicap, please make sure both are visible. If you are faculty in a reserved spot, please be sure your number matches your parking spot. Bayou Classic BizTech Challenge Gather your best business ideas, a few fellow students, and a faculty advisor, then register to compete in this year’s Bayou Classic BizTech Challenge at biztechchallenge.com. Apply by September 30 to compete for the $10,000 grand prize.
Southern University School of Nursing Southern University School of Nursing call for Standardized Patients Volunteers needed to help nursing students develop competencies for proper techniques for vital signs, health histories, and physical assessment skills. Dates are Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays October 18-November 17
Thursday, Oct. 4 the Lady Jags will travel to Pine Bluff, Arkansas to take on the Golden Lions at 6:30PM. Department of Psychology The Departments of Psychology are pleased to sponsor the 20th Annual Social and Behavioral Sciences Undergraduate Research Conferences from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm on November 15, 2018 in the Smith-Brown Memorial Union in the Cotillion Ballroom
For more information and to schedule your time call Shena Content for projects: Students in the departments of criminal Williams at 225-771-5000 justice, economics, history, Participants will receive a $30 political science, psychology, Gift Card rehabilitation, and disability studies, social work, sociology, Women’s Soccer and speech pathology are The soccer team will be racing encouraged to submit to the goal against Grambling abstracts by Friday, October 26, State at home on Friday, Oct. 2018. For more information, 5 at 7PM. please contact Dr. Reginald The Lady Jags will take on the Rackley (225)771-2900 or Golden Lions of ArkansasReginald_Rackley@gmail.com Pine Bluff on Sunday, Oct. 7 at 1PM. 10th Annual Homecoming Cross Country Art Exhibition: SU Visual The cross country team will Arts Alumni IV be racing to the Combined The exhibit will run from Cross Country meet at September 25th - October Mississippi College in Clinton, 11th, 2018. MS. on Saturday, October 6. Calling the Best and Brightest
High-School Preview Day
Become a Part of the SU Quiz Bowl Team. The Local Honda National Quiz Bowl will be held on Wednesday, October 3, 2018, at 6:00PM in the Smith Brown Memorial Student Union.
The 2018 Jaguar PreviewHigh School Day on the Bluff, will be held Saturday, November 10. For more information visit: www.subr. edu/jaguarpreview.
Jaguar Volleyball
Yearbook Staff Wanted
Tuesday, Oct. 2 the Lady Jags will take on the Panthers of Prairie View at 6:30 PM in Prairie View, TX.
Stop by 1064 T.H. Harris Hall to apply. Be apart of history.
FALL 2018 STAFF EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jacqueline Morgan
SPORTS EDITOR James Eaglin, Jr.
MANAGING EDITOR James Eaglin, Jr.
PHOTO EDITOR Keith Lewis
COPY EDITOR Contara Mayfield
DIGEST WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS Ella Dodor Michael Patterson, Jr. Destiny Speaks Dante Davis Courtney Jacobs Adriana Trosclair Taylor Jeanlewis Vincent Honey Elaziah Nickerson Jodeci Ashford Hannah Schlaman Terrance Jones Christina White Leah Williams Miracle Harris Jordan Victorian
COMMENTARY EDITOR Debrandin Brown NEWS EDITOR Gabrielle Hutchinson LAYOUT EDITOR Caleb Penn MULTIMEDIA EDITOR Devin Hadrick A&E EDITOR Najeri Evans
www.southerndigest.com
News The Southern DIGEST • TUESDAY • OCTOBER 2 • 2018
Southern University Laboratory School:
Swan Street’s Best Kept Secret
NEWS 3 SULC Homecoming: Fall Fest Courtney Jacobs ● DIGEST Staff Writer
During the homecoming events that were held last week, the Southern University Law Center also held their own version of events. Jacqueline Morgan ● Gabrielle Hutchinson DIGEST Editor-in-Chief/News Editor
school for 14 years. Valentine can speak for the institution in ways that others cannot.
On the campus of Southern University and Agricultural & Mechanical College sits another institution of learning that has the capability of serving students from kindergarten until their senior year of high school.
“Since going here, I feel like it’s been a lot of change, but it’s been a lot of good change in my opinion. I feel like they’re really preparing us for the next stage in life which is college if that’s what we want to do, or trade school if that’s an option as well,” Valentine confides.
Since 1922, The Southern University Laboratory School (SU Lab) has sat at the cusp of Southern University, dually serving as an educational lighthouse and enrollment feeder system for the university. The school was inspired by the late Dr. J. S. Clark who dreamed of a school where university students enrolled in the teacher preparation program could put their gifts to the test. “The earliest school was called the Southern University Model Training School. In the early 1930’s the name was changed to Southern University Demonstration School. A few years later, the school was renamed the Southern University Laboratory School,” SU Lab Director Herman Brister recalls. In 2013 the Southern University Laboratory Virtual School was established, allowing students from across Louisiana to attend classes fulltime and virtually anywhere. Its’ 11th and 12th grade students also have the opportunity to participate in Dual Enrollment programs and graduate in person on the campus of its parent school, Southern University. Although it currently serves students from every Louisiana parish, the virtual school is reportedly more popular in rural areas where resources are not as readily available in other areas. Academic advisor for the virtual school, Karris Story explains, “Some [students] have medical conditions that prevent them from being successful in a classroom setting. Our school gives them an alternative to being in the classroom in the event.” Southern University Lab School was first accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools in 1936, and maintains what is now known as AdvancED accreditation to date. Ninetysix years later, the school has grown not only in prestige, but also in size. Southern Lab and Southern Lab Virtual School now serve 319 students and 385 students respectively. “Over the past few years, we have seen a significant growth in our enrollment and test scores because of the hard work of a dedicated faculty, staff and administration. In the fall of 2017, our school report card improved from a 98.2 ‘B’ to 101.1 ‘A’,” Brister boasts. Baton Rouge native and prospective Southern Jaguar, Braylon Valentine, senior at Southern Lab, has attended the
From the tender age of four, Valentine witnessed the comings and goings of Southern Lab. He has witnessed, first-hand, and embodied the school spirit that drives Southern Lab -- that is in academia as well as community outreach. Valentine was one of many young students to participate in SHEEO Project Pipeline Repair, a project that aims to encourage male participation in and completion of educator preparation programs. “They’re [grooming] us to become male teachers. Coming out of the program, I feel that they really prepared us to go into any field of teaching, as far as any STEM program as well as foreign language if that’s what you wanted to do.” Incidentally, SU Lab is not only well known for its academic power, but also its athletic talent. Current volleyball, basketball, health, and physical education instructor, Quianna Chaney, is a glowing example of such. Chaney graduated from the Lab School and has since come back to repay the gift of conditioning. Recalling her academic career at the lab school, Chaney says, “Academically, I was able to go to LSU. Southern Lab allowed me to take some classes at LSU before I was enrolled there to get a feel for how things were going to be.” Chaney later made her way to professional basketball, humbly claiming, “Athletically, I’d say I was pretty much ready for the most part.” “Pretty much ready” would later manifest into a ten-year career.
Fall Fest is an annual tradition of the law center that is usually held during the same week as the main campus’ homecoming events, and it also provides a bit of relief from the rigorous curriculum that the law center offers. “We have been doing fall fest for about 20 years now, and it started as an outbreak of Law Week,” states Roderick White, the Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs of the law center. Law Week is held every spring, and it was suggested to do something of the same caliber during the Fall semester. “Overall, it usually is a good thing for the students and it helps them.” Notable alumni from the Southern University Law Center--such as Tony Clayton and Preston Castille--came and spoke to students about entrepreneurship and networking, and to also demonstrate to the students that there is more you can do with a juris doctorate degree outside the court. “Fall fest is our own way to celebrate everything homecoming and so it gives everyone an opportunity to connect with alumni and collaborate,” stated Candice Guice, an attorney and blogger who graduated from the Southern University Law School. “They have a ton of fun events throughout the week that just gives students that chance to network and get to know each other a little better,” says Guice. Events such as an alumni versus current student basketball game, a fashion show, a barbeque, and a networking mixer are just a few of the many events that was facilitated by the Southern University Law Center for Fall
“I finished school early in 2007 and was drafted in 2008 to Chicago Sky. I played a year there and the next year I played in San Antonio. After that, I continued to play overseas. I decided to go ahead and stay there for eight years. I came back to teach.” Much like its mother institution, Southern Lab offers a variety of activities to its students, including sports, marching band, dance programs, and academic clubs -- and rest assured that they are just as competitive as the Jaguars! For more information, visit the Southern Lab website, or simply pass by on Swan street across from the A.W. Mumford Memorial Stadium.
www.southerndigest.com
Fest. This year’s theme was “The Verdict Is In,” and every event that was held has centered around the stages that the court process goes through. “The first day of Fall Fest was called “The Court Rests,” and we just had a field day for the students because we are usually serious all of the time,” stated Zay Jeffers, a 3L student who is also the president of the Student Bar Association. “On Tuesday we had a networking event that showed students how to network and how to follow up when you network. We also had an entrepreneurship symposium, and we had Professor Mark Thurman among others to come and talk to students about different ways you can be an entrepreneur with your JD.” While most people think you can only work in the legal system with a juris doctorate, you can also pursue goals with the arts as well. One of the law center professors brought students from the Mentorship STEAM Academy that’s located here in Baton Rouge in order to give them a chance to network and to discover that there is more than just a courtroom that comes with a law degree. “There are events that we [Student Bar Association] hold that are centered around the legal profession, and we also do social events for our students,” stated Jeffers. Jeffers was also able to give a bit more information about the law center itself and how the degree works. “With the way law school works, everyone is here to obtain their juris doctorate degree. There are certifications you can get as well, such as tax certification and public policy,” says Jeffers, who is expected to graduate May 18th, 2019. Now that Fall Fest has reached its end for the fall 2018 semester, we can look forward to Law Week Spring 2019.
4 JAGUAR SPORTS
Sports The Southern DIGEST • TUESDAY • OCTOBER 2 • 2018
Fallen: Jaguars smothered by tenacious Braves Defense
Sophomore, wide receiver, Kendall Catalon takes a huge hit during the Southern vs. Alcorn game on Homecoming night in A.W. Mumford stadium on September 29. (Caleb Penn/DIGEST)
Debrandin Brown ● DIGEST Sports Writer
drive.
The Southern University Jaguars (2-2. 1-0 SWAC) took on the Alcorn State University Braves (3-1 overall, 1-0 in SWAC) in their second conference game of the season last Saturday at A.W. Mumford Stadium during the homecoming festivities. Alcorn has statistically been better than what traditional homecoming opponents are. When asked about his thoughts on how the schedule fell, head coach Dawson Odums had this to say: “It’s a lot of good teams that are playing teams for Homecoming, and it’s just the way the schedule falls.” While the pregame weather was perfecting for tailgating, the first quarter saw a downpour of rain that would continue to last throughout the first half of play. After winning the coin toss, Southern elected to receive the ball to start the game, which marked the beginning of a defensively-dominant first half. Alcorn held Southern to a 3-and-out on their first
Bayou Classic, NBC Sports Announce Extension Through 2021 Dante Davis ● DIGEST Sports Writer
Southern University, Grambling State University, and NBC Sports Group have agreed to terms to allow NBC Sports Network to continue airing the Bayou Classic football game on television through 2021. Prior to 2015, NBC had been broadcasting the event since 1991. This year’s classic, to be played on November 24 at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, will
While both SU’s and ASU’s defenses put up great performances for the majority of the first half, missed opportunities and miscommunications in the wet conditions by both offenses deterred both teams from the endzone. With the score tied at zero going deep into the first half, Southern was responsible for forcing the first turnover of the game as senior defensive back, Demerio Houston, picked off ASU’s quarterback. Failing to convert their turnovers into points however, Southern missed their field goal attempt in the closing seconds of the first quarter that would have given them a 3-0 advantage. After a big play on offense, Alcorn capitalized on their field position by making a field goal towards the end of the first half to give them a 3-0 lead at halftime. Unlike how the defensive-oriented first half of play began, Alcorn wasted no time in putting up the game’s first touchdown four plays into the second half to put ASU up 10-0.
serve as the 28th TV broadcast. The rivalry between the two instate historically black universities dates back to 1932. In 1972, the contest was officially dubbed the ‘Bayou Classic’. Two years later, the game would be played on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. The date has never changed since. Of the 45 meetings between Southern and Grambling in New Orleans, Grambling currently holds a two game advantage at 23-21. The rebranding has enabled the Bayou Classic to become one of the premier football experiences in all of collegiate sports, drawing an estimated 200,000 people to New Orleans each year. There are events planned throughout the entire Thanksgiving weekend, including the BizTech Challenge, Greek Show,
After being set up by a 60-yard kickoff return on the part of sophomore wide receiver Christopher Chaney, Southern’s offense continued to sputter, as they were held to a freshman kicker Martel Fontenot field goal on their only scoring possession of the night to bring themselves within 7. Senior defensive lineman Simeon Houston recorded Southern’s second forced turnover of the night in the midst of the third quarter, as he caught an interception from the line of scrimmage. Even after sophomore quarterback John Lampley threw an interception, and was eventually benched, SU’s offense remained stagnant and failed to reach 90 yards of offense before the start of the fourth quarter. Alcorn’s defense continued to keep the Southern offense from scoring in the second half of play. “They’re defense is good; real good.” said Coach Odums during the post game presser on Saturday night in regards to what Alcorn did to win see FALLEN on page 5
Battle of the Bands, and the Bayou Classic Parade, among others. As the game moved to being aired on NBC Sports Network in 2015, the kickoff time was able to be pushed back, allowing additional revenue to be created for both schools. “The Thanksgiving weekend, national time slot on NBC is important to building the tradition of our game and the Bayou Classic brand,” said President of New Orleans Convention Companies Inc., Dottie Belletto. NBC Sports Group’s Vice President of Programming and Owned Properties, Gary Quinn, agrees on the importance of keeping this tradition alive and prosperous.
www.southerndigest.com
“The Bayou Classic is a college football staple, and one we’re proud to have broadcast for three decades at the end of this agreement. We look forward to showcasing this annual Thanksgiving tradition for the next three years to avid college football fans across the country on NBCSN.” The ability to have arguably the most anticipated game of the football season nationally broadcasted on television and media outlets plays an important part in keeping the tradition going. Sophomore Jasmine Grover notes that not everyone can see EXTENSION on page 5
JAGUAR SPORTS 5
Sports The Southern DIGEST • TUESDAY • OCTOBER 2 • 2018
#WayTooEarly NFL Playoff Predictions Jordan Victorian ● DIGEST Sports Writer
Only 12 of the NFL’s 32 teams will have a chance of hoisting the Lombardi Trophy. While the sample size is limited, we will attempt to predict the 2018-2019 NFL Playoffs, based on current statistics and bold assumptions, through the first quarter of the season AFC North Playoff Team(s) Cincinnati Bengals, Current Record 3-1, Season’s End Prediction 11-5 (3rd Seed) Since drafting Pro Bowlers A.J Green and Andy Dalton in 2011, the Bengals have been one of the more consistent teams in the NFL. With the exception of the past two years, the team has made the playoffs every year since acquiring Green and Dalton. The offense has been above average this year, currently ranking 4th amongst NFL teams in points scored per game. Being arguably the most consistent team in the NFL, and leading the division after 4 weeks of play, look for the team to return to the playoffs this year. AFC South Playoff Team(s) Jacksonville Jaguars, Current Record 3-1, Season’s End Prediction 10-6 (4th Seed)
In one of the weaker division’s in football, the stage may be set for a competitive divisional championship race in the AFC South. While each team has a significant strength, all seem to have a significant weakness as well. However the division will come down to the Indianapolis Colts and the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Jaguars elite defense will carry them to a 10-6 record and a division crown, but inconsistent play from Blake Bortles, will limit them from making a consistent playoff run. In the last 3 quarters of the season Andrew Luck will find his groove, guide the Colts to the playoffs, and win the NFL Comeback player of the Year Award. NFC North Playoff Team(s) Green Bay Packers, Current Record 2-1-1, Season’s End Prediction 9-6-1 (4th Seed) The NFC North will feature another competitive Divisional title race. Similar to the AFC South each team has significant strengths and weaknesses. No team looks to be taking the a firm grip battle for divisional crown. However one teams has a significant advantage, Aaron Rodgers. Along with arguably the best quarterback of this era, the Packers defense has played well, ranking top 10 in total yards allowed, sacks, and
interceptions. This along with Rodgers directing the offense, will lead to the Packers winning the divisional crown and securing a home playoff game at Lambeau Field. NFC South Playoff Team(s) New Orleans Saints, Current Record 3-1, Season’s End Prediction 11-5 (2nd Seed) Carolina Panthers, Current Record 2-1, Season’s End Prediction 10-6 (5th Seed) In arguably the best division in the NFL, every team has a legitimate shot of making the playoffs. Last year three teams made it to the postseason from this division, and we will look for a similar trend in 2018. While the Saints defense is among the league’s worst, they have one of the best Quarterback, Running Back, Receiver trios in the NFL. Look for the Buccaneers to eventual fall from grace and the Panthers sneak in with close wins throughout the season to secure them a wild card spot. Do you agree? Tweet using the hashtag #WayTooEarly to keep the conversation going.
Indianapolis Colts, Current Record 1-3, Season’s End Prediction 9-7 (6th Seed)
FALLEN from page 4
Saturday’s game. Players were not available for comments. Although the rain settled down going into the second half of play, wet conditions persisted for the duration of Saturday night’s contest. When asked whether or not weather played a factor in his team’s loss, Odums simple reply was, “[Alcorn] played in it.” Failing to eclipse 150 offensive yards on the day, the Jags fell to the Alcorn Braves with a score of 20-3 as they head into the bye week tied for 2nd place in the SWAC at 1-1. Prairie View A&M currently holds first place in the West division after defeating Grambling State last weekend. The Jaguars have the opportunity to regain control of their SWAC title hopes, as they prepare to travel to Texas and play against Prairie View on October 13th. EXTENSION from page 4
make it to New Orleans every year, “Since not everyone can make it to the Bayou Classic, it’s good to see that people far and wide still have the opportunity to support their favorite team: Southern University.”
FOLLOW US TWITTER
@SOUTHERNDIGEST
www.southerndigest.com
6 PHOTOS OF THE WEEK
Around Campus The Southern DIGEST • TUESDAY • OCTOBER 2 • 2018
COME THROUGH: The Alpha Tau Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. stroll through the ball room during Pretty Wednesday inside Smith-Brown Memorial Student Union. (Miracle Harris/DIGEST)
GIVEAWAYS: Yasmine Williams, a student at Southern University and the Black College Today, Inc gives away free natural hair products during Pretty Wednesday on September 26 inside Smith -Brown Memorial Student Union. (Adriana Trosclair/DIGEST)
THROW ME SOMETHING MR: During the Southern University Homecoming Parade, float #76 is crowded with parade goers reaching for T-Shirts. (Courtney Jacobs/DIGEST)
SMALL TALK: Governor John Bel Edwards (center) visits and speaks with Southern University alumni president, Laquitta Thomas (right), while tailgating before the homecoming game versus Alcorn State on Saturday, September 29. (Courtney Jacobs/DIGEST)
WEAR IT WELL: The 88th Miss Southern, Darby Smith, crowns the 2018-2019 Miss Freshman, Morgan Harris, during the 2018 Coronation, themed “The Empires New Reign”, on Wednesday, September 26, in the F.G. Clark Activity Center. (Rocelyn Hamilton/DIGEST)
SALUTE: Senior, Melody Byrd, of the Beta Psi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Inc gazes at victory during her performance in the Mini Dome at the Southern University Greek Show on September 28. (Keith Lewis/ DIGEST)
MISDIRECTION: Redshirt Sophomore running back Devon Benn, searches for an open lane in the defense during Saturday’s SWAC matchup against Alcorn State. (Devin Hadrick/DIGEST)
PURE GRACE: The Gold N’ Bluez perform at the 2018 Homecoming Pep Rally on September 28 in the Minidome. (Kyndall Jones/DIGEST)
www.southerndigest.com
PHOTOS OF THE WEEK 7
Around Campus The Southern DIGEST • TUESDAY • OCTOBER 2 • 2018
TOO SMOOTH: Members of the Alpha Sigma Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. pose for a quick photo in the ballroom of the student union during Pretty Wednesday. (Kennedy Madison/DIGEST)
WORK IT: Students model apparel created by SU designers at the 2018 Homecoming Fashion Show on September 25 in the Minidome. (Kyndall Jones/DIGEST)
RESTING AT THE TOP: The 88th Miss Southern, Darby Smith, during her coronation, themed “The Empires New Reign”, on Wednesday, September 26, in the F.G. Clark Activity Center. (Rocelyn Hamilton/DIGEST)
How do you feel about campus safety and the violence that’s been going on in our community? Devin Whitehorn
Spencer Bynum
Kiyanna Givens
Deja June
Major: Business
Major: Accounting
Major:
Major:
Management
Classification:
Mass
Elementary
Classification:
Freshman
Commnications
Education
Freshman “I as a young black female feel that being safe on this college campus is important in so many ways. Our campus security has been doing a great job keeping the students on campus safe, but as far as violence in the community, I feel that the black community should do better with how they handle certain situations. As far as BRPD, they’re more worried about the minor things going on other than the major things happening in the community. Communication is key with any situation and problems can be solved efficiently - Everyone has a voice!”
“As a single male, I’m worried about my safety. While withholding the emotion by all the violence. I trust both SUBR/ BR police departments to keep the peace. I feel that if we work as a community, we as a university could get rid of all the violence. We should have more safety features to get home safely. A bigger police presence would be prevent crime. Have a university student council where students could give there opinions on the matter, would info people how to stay safe.”
Classification: Freshman “Southern University has taken many strides to ensure that this campus is secure. For example, The Jag safe emergency poles allows students to get immediate response from the campus police department, and we also have the Jag safe app for safety precautions. I feel safe at my HBCU.”
Classification: Freshman
“I am concerned with the safety of the campus and with the safety of others as a whole.I feel that there is a lot of things that can be avoided with people simply just doing their jobs, in public settings. Sometimes when you’re supposed to be checked and they don’t check you thoroughly, this can also open up room for mistakes and violence to go on.....” Minorities as a whole should change their mindset and come together rather than tearing each other down.”
EDITORIAL POLICY The Southern DIGEST welcomes letters from readers commenting on current issues and other matters of general interest to the SU family and public. We set aside this space to publish these letters for others to enjoy. This newspaper is not responsible for individual opinions expressed on its Editorial and Commentary pages (Including Sports Commentaries). The Southern DIGEST reserves the right to edit any contributions and or reject them without notification. Authors are encouraged to limit the length of submissions to 300 words. Letters should not include libelous statements. Offensive and personal attacks will not be permitted. The DIGEST will not print “open letters” addressed to someone else. All contributions must be type written, signed and must include the author’s address and phone number. Unsigned letters will not be printed. Southern University students should include their majors, hometowns and year in school. When referring to specific DIGEST articles, please include the date and title. All materials should be directed to the editor in chief of The Southern DIGEST, P.O. Box 10180, Baton Rouge, La. 70813. Materials may be delivered by hand to the DIGEST office located in Suite 1064 Harris Hall or can be emailed to digest@subr.edu
www.southerndigest.com
8 A&E
Arts & Entertainment The Southern DIGEST • TUESDAY • OCTOBER 2 • 2018
Lots of Funny
Homecoming Comedy show brings the funny Najeri Evans ● Leah Williams DIGEST Staff Editor / Writer
Tuesday, September 25 was this year’s annual homecoming Fashion Show, and was followed by the Annual Comedy Show. The comedy show was opened and hosted by King Keraun. It featured Dee Lai, Spencer Neal, and was headlined by Darren Brand. The opener, King Keraun, is from Houston, Texas. Making appearances on the shows Insecure and Blackish, King Keraun has a rather large social media following. Speaking on his performance, Keraun said the students were rowdy and he enjoyed it. Oppositely, Ashley Brooks, junior Civil Engineering major from New Orleans felt that, “King Keraun was supposed to be funnier, the guy he came with was better.” Getting into comedy because with him having several felony charges, he couldn’t do anything else. His advice to college students is to start creating your own things. “Don’t ever try to just do something to where you’ll just be working for somebody else for the rest of your life. Make sure you have your own, something you can build and pass on to your kids,” said Keraun. He said he can’t go into details yet, but be on the lookout for a movie starring him by the Summer of 2019. The next comedian to take the stage was D’Lai, or Dee Lai, from
Comedians King Keraun, DLai, Spencer Neal, and Wild N’ Out’s Warren Brand entertain students with endles jokes at the Homecoming Comedy Show, Tueday, September 25 in the F.G. Clark Activity Center. (Rocelyn Hamilton/DIGEST)
Alexandria, Louisiana. He said he got his career started in Baton Rouge. Working as a blackjack dealer at a casino, it was the owner of Tony’s Seafood talked him into doing standup. His first time on stage, he hated
it but he gave it another try and fell in love. His most memorable performance was a sold out show in Atlanta with Katt Williams. He has a podcast, Did You Miss Me, with Billy Sorrell, as well as a movie called
#Twominutesoffame with Keke Palmer and Katt Williams coming out, and a 30 minute special produced by see LOTS OF FUNNY on page 10
Grown-coming:
Avant, Moneybagg Yo, and Yo Gotti take the stage Debrandin Brown ● DIGEST Staff Editor
The 2018 JagWars Homecoming Concert filled the F.G. Clark Activity Center to capacity with students anticipating performances by performing artists Avant, Moneybagg Yo, and Yo Gotti on Thursday, September 27. With a very Baton Rouge-oriented performance line-up, local artists took their chances at hyping the already excited crowd for each of the headliners as artists such as Sunnei J and Nilly welcoming the concerts first guests into the building. As the crowd grew larger, Southern University alumna and concert host, Jamesia Stewart, prompted disk jockey for the evening, DJ Revolution, to prepare the crowd for Avant to take the stage. The first performer of the night, Avant, took the stage with a flurry of classic R&B and soul sounds as he recited some of his biggest hits, including songs such as “Separated” “My First Love”, and “Read Your Mind”. “How many of y’all ladies out here are single right now?” said the platinum selling recording artist as he began to serenade the audiences ladies with smooth R&B vocals.
R&B artist, Avant, wooing the ladies during the Homecoming Concert on Thursday, September 27 in the F.G. Clark Activity Center. (Rocelyn Hamilton/DIGEST)
Being the first headlining performer of the night, Avant started off the show on a subtle note in most regards and prepared the crowd for what was sure to be a high-octane rest of the night with Money Bagg Yo and Yo Gotti. According
to Laniya Spencer, a
Rap Artist, Yo-Gotti, performs his hit song “Juice” during the Homecoming Concert on Thursday, September 27 in the F.G. Clark Activity Center. (Destiny Speaks/DIGEST)
sophomore mass communications major from Memphis, Tennessee, she wasn’t shy about her enjoyment of the concert. “I’m from Memphis, so I personally had a good time. [It] made me feel happy for a minute,” Spencer said of the concert as a whole. As far
as Avant goes, Spencer had this to say about how his performance ended, “Everything except [for] Avant showing his pubic hairs was live.” said Spencer in regards to the conclusion of Avant’s set when he partially exposed his lower abdomen see CONCERT on page 9
A&E 9 The Carter V: Weezy is Back
Arts & Entertainment The Southern DIGEST • TUESDAY • OCTOBER 2 • 2018
Homecoming Art Exhibit Annual Art showcase returns to the Bluff
Ballie Boyd ● DIGEST Staff Writer
Courtney Jacobs ● DIGEST Staff Writer
At the Art Exhibit in Hayden Hall on September 25, 2018 they showcased over 20 pieces of art. It was Southern University’s 10th Annual Homecoming Art Show, and it was the fourth annual for Alumni of Southern.
After waiting about four years, Lil Wayne has finally dropped his long-awaited album “Tha Carter V” on September 27, which is also the rapper’s birthday. The album has a lot of history behind it, as it was first announced by Wayne in December of 2012. It was originally set to come out in 2014, but issues with the record label provided a long delay for the album to be released.
Gallery director Robert Cox brought together some of his past students to make the magic happen. There were arts of all kind from digital painting, to oil paintings to abstract. Homecoming has always been a huge success at Southern University of Baton Rouge but art was never apart of the celebration until Dr. Rebecca T. Cureau who was chair of the art department at the time made the dream start becoming a reality. The first exhibition took place on October 12, 2009 and it was an instant success and had a huge impact on the department and the Art mural was unveiled. This year the gallery was renovated with new wooden flooring and fresh white walls to make the artwork pop.
Karin B. Dorsey, “His T-Shirt” 48x42
Artist Karin B. Dorsey painting “His T-Shirt” is a painting of a woman staring out to what appears a window holding onto a t-shirt and is impregnated, tears are falling from her eyes which shows pain. The artwork has some definition as the the hair is in Bantu knots.
Hammond, Louisiana, with over 20 years of experience in art. Karin B. Dorsey states about her painting “Him is a body of work that focuses on the role of the black male in the family. His T-Shirt is a still shot of a pregnant adult female after her boyfriend
Karin B. Dorsey is a graduate from Southeastern Louisiana University in
see ART EXHIBIT on page 10
According to Rolling Stone, “Believe Me”, a track with Wayne featuring Toronto rapper Drake, was going to be the lead single of the album. However, days before the album was set to release, Wayne used Twitter as an outlet to announce that Bryan “Birdman” Williams—Wayne’s mentor and the head of the record label Cash Money—”refused to release” the album. “I am a prisoner and so is my creativity. I am truly sorry and I don’t blame ya if ya fed up with waiting 4 me & this
Source/Twitter
album,” tweeted Wayne in December of 2014. What followed was a lawsuit where Wayne demanded $51 million dollars and the right to sever his ties with the label, which caused the album to be on hiatus indefinitely. Wayne has released other works of art during Carter V’s delay, such as “Dedication 6” and “Free Weezy Album”, all which have hit singles, but none that truly offers the cut throat lyrics and vibrating beats that has coined his other Carter albums. According to a recent Billboard cover story, Wayne and Birdman settled on an undisclosed amount and see CARTER V on page 10
A&E OPINION
Nappily Ever After:
Najeri Evans● DIGEST Staff Writer
up with him. But old feelings, heaps of jealousy, no doubt, arise when he promptly begins dating another woman.” Narrating, Violet, as a child, is standing beside the pool desperate to dip in. Opposing this, her mother warns her not to, reminding Violet the long process it regularly took to style her hair to “perfection”. The story continues, as her mother teaches her to do things to ensure her standard of beauty. When Violet reaches a successful point in her adulthood, she is a reflection of the careful and controlling nature of her mother. Like many black girls, Violet was being held to a standard that she could not naturally fulfill. Taking a toll on her during a difficult birthday, the story shifts.
Source/Amazon
Growing up a young black girl, life sometimes seemed like an endless cycle of being expected to “fix” what society deems wrong with us. From “taming” our “unruly” hair to shushing our“loud” voices to oblivion. Released September 21 on Netflix, Sanaa Lathan stars as Violet in “Nappily Ever After”. Movie Insider summarizes the film, “Violet Jones tired of waiting for her longtime boyfriend to propose, breaks
At the time, unfortunate for her, she spirals through a fiasco break up with her “perfect” boyfriend, Clint. Later, drunkenly cutting off all of her hair, she gains a refreshing new perspective on life. The story continues as Violet begins loving herself without vanity, growing to embrace her imperfections. In more ways than one, Violet is every black girl. Societal pressures normalize the ideal of perfection in beauty. Symbolically, cutting of her hair was the cutting of ties to the opinions and preferences of others. Once Violet embraces her look, she is met with a new confidence that ultimately brightens her life. Freeing her true self, she lets go of her fear and inhibitions to live life, worrying less and living more.
CMG Artist, MoneyBagg Yo, rocks the crowd during the Homecoming Concert on Thursday, September 27 in the F.G. Clark Activity Center. (Destiny Speaks/DIGEST)
on stage. The night continued as Money Bag Yo took the stage around the nine o’clock hour, and ignited what was a moderately relaxed performance environment into a jovial conglomerate of sweat and trap lyrics filling the stadium. The crowd was perhaps at its most lit as Money Bagg went into the crowd during the beginning of his show and recorded snaps on multiple members of the crowds phones in what has become somewhat of a tradition at Money Bagg Yo concerts. The night reached its peak as Yo Gotti took the stage, and like Money Bag Yo before him,
his performance increased the audiences energy to an even higher level than before. “The concert was nostalgic. Avant was great, and [DJ Premier] even played music from Texas.” said A’Yanna Muigua, a senior music performance major from Dallas, TX. when asked about her experience at this years homecoming concert. As Yo Gotti performed multiple songs off of his latest project, as well as a couple from earlier projects, the crowd sung word for word as he concluded a star-studded and event-filled Homecoming Week.
10 A&E
Arts & Entertainment The Southern DIGEST • TUESDAY • OCTOBER 2 • 2018
Television Icon Bill Cosby Behind Bars
LOTS OF FUNNY from page 8
Kevin Hart. He’s currently on the Joke Boys Tour with King Keraun. Spencer Neal, a comedian from Atlanta, was the third comedian to take the stage. He’s been to several colleges before, and wants to warn students, if you know college isn’t for you, don’t waste your time and money. He also was appreciative and excited to perform at Southern. “This is one of the biggest shows I’ve ever had. Shout out to SGA for bringing me down here,” said Neal. Darren Brand, also known as Wild ‘n Out comedian Big Baby, from Southern Pines, North Carolina headlined the show. As a proud HBCU graduate, one of his goals is to make a documentary series performing at HBCUs and pitching it to Netflix. He said he was excited to be at Southern because he will never turn down an opportunity to perform at an HBCU. He says he’s thankful for the opportunity that Nick Cannon gave him, but Wild ‘n Out was
Bill Cosby is escorted into the Montgomery County Correctional Facility Tuesday Sept. 25, 2018 in Eagleville, Pa. after being sentenced to three-to-10-year prison sentence for sexual assault.(AP Photo/Jacqueline Larma)
Diamond Butler● DIGEST Staff Writer
On September 25, 81-year-old Bill Cosby was sentenced 3 to 10 years in prison by a judge in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. He was charged with the drugging and sexual assault acts of Andrea Constand and several other women. This story has been discussed many times throughout many different news and media outlets. In 2004, Andrea Constand, a former Temple University employee, took Bill Cosby to court claiming that she was drugged and sexually assaulted inside Cosby’s home. A decade later, more than 60 women have come forward admitting to Cosby drugging and assaulting them. In April of this year, Cosby was found guilty on charges of aggravated indecent assault and has been deemed as a ‘Sexually Violent Predator.’ Though he is being served a punishment for his deed, he will always be known as “America’s Dad.” Cosby is most recognized for his role as Dr. Cliff Heathcliff Huxtable from The Cosby Show, but he has done a lot of things in his life. He is the creator of A Different World, Fat Albert, Little Bill, and many other successful television shows and movies. Though with his recent sentencing, many people have changed their view on who he is as a person, but despite his current controversies, Cosby’s legacy
will live on. Chavaun Young, a 20-yearold Business Major, says that she has many fond memories of Bill Cosby growing up. She explains, “Bill Cosby was the man who gave us countless memories and laughs. He made us feel proud and motivated to achieve the “African American Dream.” A 21-yearold Southern University student, who wishes to remain anonymous, adds “I remember Bill Cosby for his stand-up comedy and popular programs like A Different World and Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids.” All across social media people have been expressing conflicting views on the verdict. Many people empathize with Cosby’s victims and are satisfied with the verdict and feel that justice has been served. There are those, who have compared Bill Cosby’s sentencing to other very powerful and white figures who have been accused of sexual assault and mentions on how they are walking around free. Two of the people mentioned are Brett Kavanaugh, a candidate for Supreme Court Justice has been accused of for sexual assault. The other is Donald Trump, who many say has admitted to sexually assaulting women and was given the Presidency of the United States. The students of Southern University have weighed in with their views on the verdict. When asked about her thoughts on the verdict Southern University senior Jada Joseph shares, “The verdict is understandable because Bill Cosby should be held accountable for the crimes he has committed.” Cosby’s defense team have planned to appeal his convictions. Cosby’s team say that though he has been deemed a sexual predator, he is old and blind and not a danger to anyone but himself. His wife, Camille Cosby, his children, and several of his former Cosby Show cast members have supported him throughout the trial.
Stacey Pinkerton, left and Chelan Lasha embrace during a news conference after Bill Cosby was sentenced to three-to 10-years for felony sexual assault, Tuesday, Sept. 25, 2018, in Norristown Pa. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
Cosby’s spokesperson, Andrew Wyatt has called this trial “the most racist and sexist trial in the history of the United States.” Whether they are granted the appeal, Bill Cosby will still have to live with the things that he has done and will have to do it in prison, where he will remain unless his appeal is won.
now Wayne is now the sole owner of Young Money, and Carter V will be his first album without the Cash Money logo on it. This month, Carter V was teased by Floyd Mayweather on Instagram with the hashtag #21, and fans took that as the album would be released on September 21. When It wasn’t released, social media went into a frenzy, however Wayne eased it by announcing that Carter V would be released on his birthday, September 27. The highly-anticipated album births 23 tracks featuring a starstudded cast—Kendrick Lamar, Nicki Minaj, Snoop Dogg, and the late XXXTentacion to name a few. With the opening track “I Love You Dewayne”, Carter V immediately showcases the emotional edge that we have missed with the previous Carter albums. The track features his mother, speaking encouraging tear-filled words to him. The album includes a fresh that she recently reunited with, is murdered by police.” Another piece of art that caught the crowd’s attention was a piece called “The Popular Tree/ Strange Fruit” by artist Lloyd G. Wade is a painting of a woman who has a type of vine hanging from her hair with men balled up hanging like a lynching. Wade has a bachelor degree from Southern University A&M University College Baton Rouge and a bachelor of fine arts from the school of art institute of Chicago his art had a saying on it that stated “Southern trees bear strange fruit blood on the leaves and blood on the root”. Emani Green a freshman from Alexandria stated “I feel like the art piece was had a big message behind it symbolized the pain
www.southerndigest.com
more fun before Nick Cannon started just bringing in cast members because they have a big social media following. He says that as college students, we need to focus on our dreams now. “You have all the resources here. I feel like if I would’ve started my career in college, I would’ve been bigger than Kevin Hart right now,” said Brand. Jacque Oubre, a junior account major from New Orleans, Louisiana, says he enjoyed the show, but not as much as last year. “I mean don’t get me wrong the show was hilarious, but DC Young Fly was funnier last year,” says Oubre. Khadijah Al-Uqdah, sophomore criminal justice major from Inglewood, California also shared her experience, “I thought the comedy show was funny… the first guy wasn’t that funny, he wasn’t the best.” Overall, students seemed to enjoy most of the show. CARTER V from page 9
sound and we get a taste of the diverse Wayne we’ve come to know and love. From facing his insecurities like on track “Open Letter”, to being braggadocious on the track “Let it Fly” featuring Travis Scott, the album delivers a head-bopping moment that is 23 tracks long to listeners. Family returns in the track “Famous” that features Wayne’s daughter, Reginae Carter, who offers almost ghost like vocals on the chorus of the track. Wayne brings us through a journey with friends and family through Tha Carter V, which actually ends on a bright note, and with perhaps one of the longest back stories in history, this album definitely gave fans what they were hopefully expecting: a man who has looked at himself in the mirror countless times, and who has finally learned from his mistakes.
ART EXHIBIT from page 9
behind the woman eyes seeing her men being hanged as if they were mearless fruit, the blood that’s spread along the ground to me means that it’s going to the roots to spread the idea of slavery.” Freshman Jayla Kelly from Detroit described, “the green the artist used for her hair means life as if she bearing men to be slaughter by society, she gives life to be taken but cant do nothing about it”. The 10th year homecoming art exhibit had a lot to show and tell as the artist brought out their most symbolic pieces that not only spoke to them but spoke to the people who had the chance to see their creations.
YES WE’RE SOCIAL! Follow us on Twitter: @southerndigest or @southernu_osm on Instagram
Commentary
COMMENTARY 11 Rise Above Pride and Put First Day the Gun Down of Fall
The Southern DIGEST • TUESDAY • OCTOBER 2 • 2018
Home coming week shack back Kennedy Madison Abney ● DIGEST Staff Writer
Homecoming week is one that creates excitement for any college student. We pick and choose what events to go to and even what classes we go to that week. But now since the week is over, what do we do? How do we get back on track knowing the week was epic? Here are a few pointers. For starters, I would rest up and hydrate once the festivities are over. Many days of mine were spent getting in past 3 AM and going to sleep around 6 in the morning, only to be up in a couple of hours for class. Homecoming week usually makes some changes to my sleeping schedule, therefore I would try to get some rest. I would also wash my clothes, so my hamper could stop overflowing. Every event required different attire, the coronation, white formal attire, whereas the concert everyone was dressing to impress. Aside from my clothes being cleaned I would clean my room from top to bottom as well. More importantly, I would check Moodle to see what assignments would be awaiting me for the week. Some professors barely distributed work during homecoming week, whereas my online professors stayed consistent. This is also a good time to try catching up on work missed.
Debrandin Brown ● DIGEST Staff Editor
For as long as I can remember, the news has always been filled to the brim with the life and deaths of young people of color, and for as long as I can remember, all we have ever been able to do is hope and pray for better days. The time for that watch and wait period however, must come to an end. Wayde Sims, a returning sophomore for the LSU Tigers basketball team, was the latest to join the long list of young African Americans who have lost their life to gun violence in the city. The worst part about his death however, and the saddest part of his story, is that it’s but one piece of the tragedy known as modern day America. Growing up in Baton Rouge, the way that the streets worked was never a
secret to me or my peers. People that we cared about and grew up with were killed, and then we mourned, and so the story has repeated. At a certain point however, we as a generation have to not only ask ourselves what we want from life, but if we want that life at all.
At the end of the day, it all comes down to black people wanting what’s best for black people. Asians, Latinos, and nearly every other ethnic group in America has thrived in the last few decades; not because of competition and petty beefs among each other, but because they believed in elevating each other and their people as a whole. If we are to ever be something greater than what we are, then this is the mentality we have to go forward with. There is so much anger and hate in my generation, so much so, that if you aren’t careful, it can simply become a part of your everyday
routines and motions. Years and years of inequality and death has made us cold hearted and angry, and I understand that.
The mistake on our part however, was mistaking the feeling our anger gave us as power, when in reality, it is just fear that has been able to be manipulated by those who would rather see us dead or in jail. Anger may have gotten us acknowledged and heard by the masses, but it cannot bring us the freedom or peace of mind that love and understanding can, and the sooner we understand that, the better we will be for it. Whether it be the hood or the suburbs, we as black people must learn to put our pride to the side and coexist for the betterment of our people, and if we can, there is no limit to the good we can do. So let’s put put the guns down, and just maybe, we can start lifting each other up.
Homecoming Shenanigans: Keep Our Campus Clean! Courney Jacobs ● DIGEST Staff Writer
Homecoming at Southern University is known for its infamous events such as the Greek show, concert, and of course the football game and tailgating experience. Unfortunately, it’s also known for how trashy the campus is after homecoming events. My friends and colleagues, as students—and even faculty—of this campus, it is our duty to keep it clean! We wouldn’t like it very much if a stranger to the campus
comes and dumps all their trash so why must we do it ourselves? We always complain about a better campus and a better campus involved all parts working together: including the students. I don’t know about you, but if I was living here, I would always want where I live to be spotless and presentable for impeccable first impressions. I can guarantee you that those across town at Louisiana State University would never let their campus turn into a huge
dumpster and stay that way. On Wednesday of last week, I already saw trash on campus and homecoming week wasn’t really in full effect yet! There are some trash cans around campus, however I will turn the light on administration with this one—Southern University can use more trash cans and recycle bins around campus. There are young people on this campus who like to recycle and care about how our campus looks, and I’m sure some faculty feels the same way. When it comes to tailgating, I can understand how campus can be a bit messy with the hundreds of people who have their food tents and cases upon cases of beer cans. However, it shouldn’t take almost a week for us to get our campus clean.
Homecoming concert tickets and outfits, Greek step show tickets, club tickets, food, and other minor expenses have taken a toll on most student’s pockets. Refund checks did drop either before or during homecoming week but let’s face it: some of those checks are completely gone. For student like me, we can only wait on our next paycheck or try to hustle some more.
We have plenty of campus beautification projects, so my point is if we can do that as an event, why can’t we do it on a regular basis? We may not have a lot of resources but if we use what we have we can still be a successful and beautiful campus!
Now that one of the most important weeks during the school year is over, myself and other students as well can focus even more on what’s important : securing our degrees!
By the time this prints I hope that the all the partying from this weekend will be cleaned, and if not, we need to do something about it! www.southerndigest.com
Hannah Schlaman ● DIGEST Staff Writer
Fall in Louisiana has an omnipresently warm feel, and although it’s a bit different than weather where I’m from, it grows on you in multiple ways extremely fast. Fall is usually signified by warm colors of yellows, reds, oranges, and browns, and by the many flavors that make fall memorable such as pumpkin spice, apple cinnamon, and caramel apple. Some may look forward to the overall season because of multiple factors. In Louisiana it means cooler mornings and cooler nights, the mark of being almost halfway through the first semester of school, and the most important being the festivities. The state hosts festivals throughout the season, some including The Greater Baton Rouge State Fair, the Crescent City Blues & BBQ festival in New Orleans, and the many upcoming Halloween attractions such as The 13th Gate haunted house. In the later month of November, Louisiana brings their annual Bayou Classic also hosted in the city of New Orleans. Fall is also a time for a change of closet clothing. Being from up north, fall always means sweaters, scarves, and the many forms of boots or booties. The transition between seasons is always refreshing especially after a long summer. One of my favorite aspects about fall is the holiday of Halloween and pumpkin patches. Halloween brings some of the best movies each year and brings back some of the best movies over the many years from the various genres pertaining to the holiday. Fall to me is a reminder of the balances in life, even between the seasons. It gives the reminder that not everything lasts, and that good things are to come with the process of going forward. Change is an evitable thing in all aspects and that to accept change with positivity and good energy much like the shorter nights, the cooler days, and the changing colors. With balance and good energy comes a sense of peace and tranquility. It reminds people that there can be peace in life.
12 STUDENT MEDIA
Advertisement The Southern DIGEST • TUESDAY • OCTOBER 2 • 2018
www.southerndigest.com