The Golden Girls perform at Tigerama on Oct. 7. Photo by brianna paciorka
Les Miles led the No. 1 Tigers to a third victory against a Nick Saban-coached Alabama squad in five seasons. He relied on a gritty defense, an admirable performance from a maligned backup quarterback and sound special teams to turn back the No. 2 Tide on Nov. 5. Junior kicker Drew Alleman’s gamewinning 25-yard field goal gave LSU its highest-ranked regular season win since 1997 and silenced a sellout crowd of 101,821. Alabama threatened to start a defensive slugfest, but the Tigers stiffened and kept the Tide out of the end zone. Alabama ran 19 plays inside the LSU 35-yard line, losing six total yards. Tiger sophomore safety Eric Reid’s leaping interception near the goalline ended the Tide’s fourth quarter momentum and nixed their best scoring chance. “Any time you can keep a team of that caliber in the SEC from scoring a touchdown, that’s big-time special,” LSU defensive coordinator John Chavis said. LSU kept Heisman contender and Tide running back junior Trent Richardson to just 89 yards rushing on 23 carries. He broke long gains on five pass receptions, totaling 80 yards. Alabama gained 96 yards on the ground, its first game this season with fewer than 100 yards. Senior starting quarterback Jarrett Lee played his worst game this season, throwing two interceptions and struggling to handle a brutal pass rush. It was fellow senior Jordan Jefferson, fresh from suspension, who took over the offensive reins. He led LSU’s three field goal drives, rushing for 48 yards and passing for 67. The win resulted in a nearly unanimous No. 1 poll ranking. So hyped for national title implications, the game became the balanced, physical affair many expected as offensive statistics were similarly low. “It was like running into a wall on every snap,” said senior lineman Will Blackwell. Senior linebacker Ryan Baker said the game “shows the kind of grind-out football we can play. We’re known as a sort of unconventional team, but we proved for good that we can win like this straight-up.” Story by chris abshire
previous pages TOP Sophomore running back Spencer Ware celebrates with the LSU section after defeating Alabama 9-6 in overtime Nov. 5 at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Ala. previous pages BOTTOM Coach Les Miles and players sing the alma mater. left Sophomore defensive tackle Bennie Logan waves an LSU flag in front of the LSU section. TOP Right LSU defensive players attempt to drag down Alabama running back Trent Richardson. BOTTOM right Spencer Ware fights for extra yards. Photos by BRIANNA PACIORKA
A squirrel clings to a live oak tree Jan. 27. Photo by lauren duhon
far left Members of Flow Tribe leap onstage. left Bobby Franklin of X-Definition sings and dances. bottom Conner Graham of Syllable Seven plays the trumpet. Photos by blair lockhart
“You can’t really put two of our songs next to each other and say, ‘Those sound very much alike.’ Every song has its’ own sound.” ABEL SMITH Syllable Seven bass player
Students came up for air Aug. 26 amid the first stressful weeks of school by attending Student Activity Board’s free Back to School Concert on the Parade Ground.
New Orleans-based Flow Tribe, whose members described their style as “backbone-cracking” enjoyed playing at the University.
“I’ve known the guys in Syllable Seven for a few years, and I saw X-Definition play with them about a month ago,” Head said. “I really liked their sound and thought they would be a good fit for the event.”
Syllable Seven, known locally for their eclectic music, will take the stage before Flow Tribe.
“We’re a part of the Baton Rouge community,” said K.C. O’Rorke, SAB Music Committee Chair lead singer and trumpet player. Randall Head said bands were “A couple of the guys in our band chosen based on his personal past went to LSU, so we’re excited to experiences. rock it out in the 225.”
Lead singer Bobby Fields said band members loved entertaining a new crowd and sharing their energy.
Head said previous years have seen audiences of as many as 700. Head said the Smoothie King and Monster Energy Drink vans “We planned to have two stages distributed free samples to on each side of the Parade attendees. Ground, but our budget and manpower didn’t allow for that,” Story by JOEY GRONER Head said. “We are looking into expanding it in the coming years.”
Rocking out Students attend free Back to School concert
Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr, the end of Ramadan, at the Islamic Center of Baton Rouge on Aug. 30. Photos by LAUREN DUHON
Muslim students celebrate Islamic holiday Eid al-Fitr with fasting and worship Muslim students gathered Aug. 30 to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, the end of the Islamic holiday Ramadan. Eid al-Fitr is marked by the lunar calendar, meaning Muslims must wait to learn the definitive date depending on the moon. Beginning Aug. 1, the period of prayer, fasting and self-restraint is a time of worship and reflection for Muslims worldwide. More than 1,000 Baton Rouge residents flocked to the Islamic Center of Baton Rouge on Aug. 31 to congratulate one another on their fasting and to pray together. Eid al-Fitr begins with segregated prayer, with men in one room and women in another. Following prayer, there is a sermon and meal.
Since Eid al-Fitr fell on a business day and many were unable to celebrate, many Muslims hosted events throughout the weekend, including barbecues and family gatherings. Over the course of Ramadan, University students and local Muslims participated in Iftars, the breaking of fasts. Doctorate student and Muslim Student Association Vice President Saif Al Qaisi said organizations within the Baton Rouge community take turns sponsoring Iftars. The University’s MSA group sponsored small weekly group Iftars. The University held its Iftars at the on-campus masjid, or place of worship. During the weekend, the
Islamic Center of Baton Rouge hosted bigger gatherings for the whole community.
Computer engineering senior and MSA member Shoeb Khan said nonMuslim students are always curious about siyam, the Arabic word for fasting.
Al Qaisi said Ramadan is a time to reflect on blessings and learn not to take anything for granted. Muslims use this time to grow closer to Allah. “Don’t be shy to eat in front of us,” said Khan. “We have grown up “Ramadan is a month of inner around people eating in front of us.” reflection, spiritual cleansing, humility, discipline, kindness and Khan said the most frequently-asked prayers,” said University Arabic question is simple — why does he instructor Hatem Bachar. fast? Bachar cancelled class Aug. 29 “The same reason we pray,” he and 30 out of respect for the holy answered. day. He said it’s important for his students to understand the culture Story by LAUREN DUHON behind the Arabic language, and observing Ramadan is a key concept.
Top Petroleum engineering sophomore Ibrahim Matri shares his thoughts on the Libyan resistance movement Aug. 31. BOTTOM LEFT Members of an anti-Gadhafi rebel group sit near a pile of ammunition in Brega on March 12. BOTTOM MIDDLE Students display signs reading “God, Moammar and Libya” during a rally March 14 in Tripoli. BOTTOM RIGHT A pro-Gadhafi fighter walks past a destroyed Tripoli building March 12. Bottom photos courtesy of THE ASSOCIATED PRESS, top photo by LAUREN DUHON
The world looked on and cheered as rebel forces resisted oppressive dictator Moammar Gadhafi’s more than 40-year regime in Libya. War hit home for petroleum engineering sophomore Ibrahim Matri. His family and friends are caught in the chaos of change. Matri spent his high school years in Libya’s capital, Tripoli, where his family still resides. When rebel forces stormed the city Aug. 21 he could, for the first time, speak candidly to his family without fear of phone hacking by Gadhafi officials searching for opposition. “That was probably one of the happiest days of my life,” he said. Libya was trapped in a whirlwind of violence and political upset for several months. “Revolutionaries,” as Matri calls them, rioted and resisted Gadhafi’s stronghold on the country. Until now, Matri said, no one could speak openly about politics without risk.
Matri. His uncle was imprisoned for 12 years with no formal charge because officials suspected he expressed anti-Gadhafi sentiment. Once released he applied for government compensation but received little assistance. Most Gadhafi supporters stood behind the tyrant because it helped them move up the social ladder, Matri said. “His intentions were always to keep people uneducated. He didn’t want anyone to excel,” Matri said. He said the Libyan people “couldn’t be any more thankful” for intervention from NATO and the United Nations, which stopped Gadhafi from committing “genocide.” Gasiorowski called UN and NATO airstrikes, troops and intelligence “essential” to rebel victory.
“People were so scared to say anything against him,” Matri said, “even with their relatives.”
The United States served as NATO’s foremost player in Libyan intervention, according to Gasiorowski. He hopes this goodwill can forge friendly Western relationships with whatever government emerges.
Victorious rebels included Matri’s friends and cousins.
“It’s going to be a tough job, but it can be done,” Matri said.
“I would have been on the front The cornerstone for rebuilding, lines as well,” he said. “It would be Matri said, is democracy. an honor to fight for human rights, for democracy.” “You can suppress opposition for a certain period of time, but it will Matri’s family has long toiled eventually go against you,” he said. under Gadhafi’s rule. His father works for Libya’s foreign ministry Libya will most likely take the and has always attempted to serve form of a Middle Eastern-style the nation, Matri said. democracy or a civilian-led authoritarian regime, Gasiorowski “The country is not working to said. Western democracy is “very its full potential,” he said. “It’s unlikely.” very sad to see a country with a lot of money and wealth, from oil Matri hopes the spirit of the especially, with people who work Libyan people will propel the on the streets.” country into a new era. He said he hopes to move back to Libya once Mark Gasiorowski, political he graduates. science and international studies professor, called Gadhafi a “brutal “We just want to be one Libyan leader,” under whose regime people as one nation where thousands of people were killed everyone takes care of one and tortured. He said Gadhafi another,” he said. wasted Libya’s money and supported terrorist groups. Story by andrea gallo Libya’s government was inundated with corruption, according to
The fight for freedom
Libyan native Ibrahim Matri applauds the defeat of dictator Moammar Gadhafi
Baton Rouge residents gathered all their strength Oct. 15 at the Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport for the one of the city’s most unique events — the fourth annual Plane Pull. According to a news release from FedEx, the event’s sponsor, 30 teams of 20 people each raced to pull a Boeing 727 aircraft by rope 12 feet down an airport runway. Proceeds from the event will benefit The Arc Baton Rouge, which provides assistance and services to children and adults with developmental disabilities. Story and photos by brianna paciorka
bottom right Elementary education sophomore Jaclyn Tisdale dances with Bryson McCoy. top right Members of team Turner Industries pull a Boeing 727 aircraft.
Birds of a feather Wildlife Hospital’s Adopt a Bird program rehabilitates injured raptors
The Adopt a Bird program at the Wildlife Hospital of Louisiana continues to care for injured wild birds including bald eagles and turkey vultures. The more than 15-year-old Adopt a Bird program depends on assistance from students at the University’s School of Veterinary Medicine. Students feed birds and clean cages, according to Javier Nevarez, assistant professor of zoological medicine and director of the Wildlife Hospital.
Popular adoption birds include Squirt, an Eastern screech owl and Morgan, a red-tailed hawk. Morgan, who is missing a wing, was brought to the Wildlife Hospital in 1985 as an adult. Morgan is estimated to be about 30 years old and is retired from presentations. Many resident birds are accustomed to being handled by people act like pets, Nevarez said Sydney, a turkey vulture, enjoys playing with toys, especially his LSU tennis ball.
Six resident birds, unable to be returned to the wild because of Jenna Alfonso, kinesiology permanent injuries, are often used freshman, said she had never in educational presentations. heard of the Adopt a Bird program before. “Elementary school classes will raise money to adopt and sponsor “I think the state should help out a bird,” Nevarez said. with some of the funding,” she said. “The Vet School should look Nevarez said the Wildlife Hospital into finding more sources for is currently rehabilitating 10 to 12 funding to help out more birds.” birds for future release. Until their release, the rehabilitation process Bonnie DeVera, computer for a single bird can cost from $50 science sophomore, said she also to $100, he said. was unaware of the program’s existence. Since no state or federal funding is provided, the program is 100 “It’s good that the Vet School is percent funded by the public with helping out wildlife,” she said. an occasional private business “Working with the birds is also donation. great experience for the students.” Requested donation amounts depend on the amount of food the bird consumes. Expenses for Hillary, a Harris’s hawk, are about $200 each year while Brize, a Mississippi kite, only costs $100.
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Story by KATE MABRY
Top Squirt, an adult Eastern screech owl who is unable to fly. middle right bottom Morgan, an adult red-tailed hawk whose wing was amputated following a gunshot wound. Photos by LAUREN DUHON
One man’s trash Mike Skaggs dives for treasures, furniture and food in campus dumpsters
Anthropology senior Mike Skaggs’ house is fully furnished. And he didn’t spend a penny. For Skaggs, an avid dumpster diver, one man’s trash is his treasure. Skaggs’ definition of dumpster diving ranges from climbing into a trash bin and rummaging through garbage to picking up abandoned furniture off the side of the road.
Skaggs said dorm move-in and move-out days are jackpots. Anneke Miller, elementary education senior, doesn’t practice “dumpster diving” quite so literally. Miller said she never took anything from inside dumpsters but reclaimed items laid nearby. Miller was a resident assistant in Miller Hall and said she’s found dozens of salvageable items tossed in the trash, including brand-name products like Vera Wang perfume, a North Face jacket and a Prada bag.
“We’re all about sustainability and recycling, but it’s a safety issue,” High said. If anyone is caught rummaging through dumpsters, High said the police will be contacted. “I’m really careful,” Skaggs said. “It used to be a thrill to just jump in, but now I take a good look.”
Harris said the majority of his office’s decor and furniture were salvaged from the trash. He’s found a mini fridge, frames, tables, chairs and computers. Harris said one of his best finds was a Toshiba laptop with a black leather carrying case and accessories. He said the computer was infected with viruses, but a simple reformatting put it in perfect working condition again. Harris later donated it.
He’s picked up desks, couches, chairs, recliners, tables, stools, hutches, bed frames and bicycle parts from the trash. Skaggs said he has five televisions in his house, and only paid for one. “I never thought of it as weird,” Miller said. She also suggests “I usually go because I see something checking the free section of tantalizing sticking out,” he said. Craigslist for bargains.
Andres Harris, LSU Recycling manager for Facility Services, said he dumpster dives on a weekly basis, Amanda Tabor, biology junior, said but not for the usual reasons. she is disgusted by garbage.
Skaggs has also gone diving for food. He said the homeless taught him that the best time to go searching is immediately after restaurants close.
Though Harris dives to ensure garbage and recyclables are properly sorted, he said he’s found some prizes in his excursions.
Jay High, communications manager for Residential Life, said the department does not permit dumpster diving.
“I don’t encourage it. ... It’s risky business,” Harris said. “I do it because I don’t want the wrong materials going in the trash.”
“I wouldn’t [dumpster dive] unless I dropped something important in the trash,” Tabor said. Story by EMILY HERRINGTON
BOTTOM Mike Skaggs (right) and Josh Dear (left) dive Sept. 9 in a Northgate dumpster. Photos by BENJAMIN OLIVER HICKS
Left Volunteer fire chief Richard Brown stands while first responders are recognized at the candlelight vigil. Middle Balloons are released in memory of 9/11victims. Photos by EMILY SLACK
Candles jumped in the breeze and a palpable American spirit hung in the air as students, faculty and members of the Baton Rouge community observed a moment of silence in the Greek Amphitheater to mark the anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The candlelight vigil was the kickoff event for Civility Week, which aims to promote a positive outlook for students who face negative issues. “This was the largest thing that I can remember in my lifetime,” said Laronica Scales, student director of Volunteer LSU and mass communication senior. Attendees congregated in Free Speech Plaza where they received balloons and cards to record personal groth since 9/11. Each tied the card to his or her balloon and released it near Memorial Tower. At dusk speakers, including Chancellor Michael Martin and Student Government President Cody Wells, shared thoughts on recovery and optimism. “We’re here to take these moments and learn,” Martin said. He advised students “to learn and to lead.” He told attendees to remember not only those who died on 9/11, but also those who have died since 9/11 as repercussions of the tragedy. “Take the time to care about one another, even in little ways,” Martin said. Nicholas Pierce, a member of the Muslim Student Association, said there was no justification for the events that killed more than 3,000 people. Taking a life of another is breaking a Muslim oath, he said. Many Muslims have experienced both acceptance and discrimination since 9/11. Mosques, including those in Baton Rouge, have been vandalized, Pierce said. “We love this country which allows us to practice our religion freely,” Pierce said. The vigil was personally meaningful to some. Management freshman Aubrie Parker said her uncle was in the Pentagon on Sept. 11 but was unharmed. Jeff O’Brien, history junior, said one of his high school football coaches was aboard United 93, the hijacked plane that crashed in Pennsylvania. Story by JULIANN ALLEN
Mud-caked floors, stacks of unused chairs and mold-covered banisters are staples of the Old Forestry Building. And while the 55-yearold facility has passed safety inspection, many say it’s time for an overhaul.
Lirette and Bostick said professors’ offices have mold growing on the blinds and hoses running water from air-conditioning units into containers.
The building is officially home to the College of Agriculture, University Auxiliary Services and Human Resource & Leadership Development.
“We have great professors,” Bostick said. “It’s a good program.”
The building passed fire marshal inspection in 2009 with no major citations, according to Emmett David, director of facility development at the Office of Facility Services. David said despite complaints no renovations are in sight. HRLD students Kolby Lirette and Robert Bostick visit the building frequently for classes and to meet with professors and advisers. Both are disgusted by the conditions. “I cross my fingers to hope that I make it out alive,” Lirette joked.
The duo said they believe their professors deserve better conditions.
Lirette said he is proud of his major and feels the University’s lack of attention shows where priorities lie. “I don’t know if it’s necessarily distracting to my learning, but it’s more about the way it makes me feel about my degree program and the University,” he said. Michael Burnett, director of the School of Human Resource Education and Workforce Development, said he recognizes the problems in the building but sees advantages as well. “Yeah, it’s got problems. Yeah, we would like the University to invest a lot more money,” Burnett said. “I would rather us be in this facility and be all together as a school than be scattered all around the University.”
He noted banisters in the stairwell sprouting white mold, stringy spider webs and stalactite-like globs hanging from the exposed ceiling. Burnett said the building has suffered problems in several upstairs On the second story the floor is classrooms due to roof leaks over covered in dust, and several rooms are the past few years. The University being used as storage space. Hallway has repaired the roof, resolving the doors are left open, revealing mud, problem, Burnett said. dirt, piles of chairs, old teaching supplies and sarcastic comments He said the school plans to restore written on the chalkboards, like “This rooms when funds are available. place is GREAT!!!” Story by LAURA FURR “I have a black backpack, and when it comes up it’s totally dusty every time I put it on the floor of the classroom,” Bostick said.
Old Forestry Building furniture, ceilings, light switches and blinds remain in decrepit conditions Sept. 14. Photos by lauren duhon
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Left Behind
Old Forestry Building plagued by filth, clutter, mold, disarray
Students and Baton Rouge residents got down and dirty Sept. 17 at the Play Dirty Adventure Trail Run at the Baton Rouge Fairgrounds. The three-mile course included a mud crawl, 12-foot climbing challenges and grease-covered plastic slides to struggle up.
that promote exercise and sends children to the YMCA Challenge Fitness Camp.
races. Similar events have been scheduled in New Orleans and Baton Rouge.
“There’s plenty of money out there going to the study of childhood obesity,” he said. “But there’s not enough going to doing anything.”
Poleto said there has been increasing interest in off-road mud races recently, but the familyfriendly atmosphere sets Play Dirty apart from other similar races like Warrior Dash.
Poleto said more than 1,700 people participated in the main race, with another 350 kids and parents competing in the Play Dirty Mini Muck competition.
David Poleto, Play Dirty director, said a portion of the entry fees will be donated to the Rocket Kidz Foundation to battle childhood obesity. He said the event raised He said the bulk of race applicants roughly $5,000 for the organization. have been in their 20s, 30s and 40s. But people in their 60s and Rocket Kidz Foundation is 70s signed up to compete in the a non-profit which combats unconventional race. childhood obesity, said founder Patrick Fellows. Fellows said the Poleto said the event has prompted foundation finances programs the creation of more Play Dirty
“This is about coming out and sharing the day with family to benefit kids,” Poleto said. Construction management senior Michael Zertuche said he hadn’t trained for the race but he enjoyed the challenging course. Baton Rouge resident April Denham attended with her family and said she liked that the race was
broken up by obstacles. Denham, who competes in triathlon, said Play Dirty wasn’t physically challenging for her. Lafayette resident Alayna Lemaire said she was upset that Play Dirty didn’t have more mud. She said she enjoys alternative races where competition is less fierce. Poleto said races have grown in popularity “because people have been doing their standard 5K and 10K runs for years and they’re looking for something exciting and fun and unique,” Poleto said. Story by Kevin Thibodeaux
Race participants battle obstacles Sept. 17 at the Baton Rouge Fairgrounds. Photos by BLAIR LOCKHART
left Public administration graduate student Androniki Papazoglakis, D-Baton Rouge, speaks about her candidacy Sept. 19. Photo by BENJAMIN OLIVER HICKS right Papazoglakis awaits her turn onstage at a gubernatorial debate Oct. 12 at the Cox Communications Academic Center. Photo by christopher leh
Few will be happier to graduate than Androniki Papazoglakis. Her master’s degree in public administration won’t go unused should she win the October gubernatorial election. Papazoglakis, D-Baton Rouge, is busy planning her campaign. She doesn’t expect it to be easy. “It’s sad that money buys elections and media coverage,” she said. Papazoglakis said she always fights against injustice, of which she said
the current administration is guilty — hence her bid for governor.
Papazoglakis personally testified against Gov. Bobby Jindal’s House Bill 55, which limits registered In response, she plans to focus her sex offenders’ access to social platform on two things she says networking websites. Though she are lacking: merit and substance. In says members of the House agreed choosing these themes, Papazoglakis with her, she was told it was sure to hopes to simplify government. pass as a “governor’s bill.” Papazoglakis touts a bachelor’s degree in international trade and finance from the University along with public and private sector work, including executive management experience and nonprofit advocacy work.
Jindal’s use of power encouraged her to compete against him for the governorship, she said. Papazoglakis said politicians often use substance-lacking political language that alienates citizens.
“People aren’t engaged and don’t care because they don’t understand,” she said. She said there’s a political elite separated from the people, and “the divide continues to grow.” According to Papazoglakis, many of the state’s problems cannot be addressed by “egos and politics.” “[Jindal] is buying and positioning himself for a national GOP position,” she said, along with “compromising the well-being of the state.”
Among the state’s many problems is Revenue would be found through higher education, Papazoglakis said. closer cooperation between the state government and the oil and gas “History tells us that a population industries under her’ administration. can’t survive with dropout rates like [those in Louisiana],” she said. As governor she would seek to remove federal regulations currently Papazoglakis wants to start school in place which will “increase internship programs to provide jobs production,” Papazoglakis said. for college students, motivation for elementary students and assistance “We, as a state, can get the resources for teachers in need. to turn things around,” she said. Papazoglakis looks to foster collaboration between the public and private sectors.
Despite her Democratic affiliation, Papazoglakis considers herself a fiscal conservative.
“I think most people in the state are moderate,” she said.
“Louisiana has been in trouble for a long time,” Papazoglakis said. “I just can’t sit back and tolerate that.”
The idea that the state is populated by political extremes, she said, is the Papazoglakis’ masthead reads “Niki fault of the media, which she said is Bird for Governor.” When the “hijacking” political stances. election begins, the ballot will read Androniki “Niki Bird” Papazoglakis. Papazoglakis also feels “the federal government has become too If nothing else, the moniker is easy expansive.” to remember, Papazoglakis said. She said Jindal’s commitment to no new taxes and privatization are “extreme GOP” and show he “doesn’t understand a public good.”
Story by CLAYTON CROCKETT
Convicted murderer Troy Davis was executed via lethal injection Sept. 21. Following his death University students continue to protest what they consider a failure of the justice system. Nine students gathered at the Memorial Tower on Sept. 25 for a candlelight vigil in remembrance of Davis, who was convicted of killing a police officer in 1991 despite questionable evidence. “The justice system failed, but humanity hasn’t,” said Matt Novak, coastal environmental science sophomore, after the group observed a moment of silence. Davis attracted national attention as the fourth scheduling of his execution neared. He and supporters insisted upon his innocence and requested a second trial, which was rejected by the U.S. Supreme Court. Joan Broussard, biological sciences senior, said she’s read about more than 250 executed inmates who were later proven innocent by newer technologies and evidence that surfaced too late. “One innocent human executed is too many,” Broussard said.
Broussard said she strongly opposes the death penalty and the “eye-for-an-eye” mentality. She said executions only “raise body counts” and do not deter crime or bring about justice. Davis’ execution highlights “how far the Unites States has not come,” she said. Students including Novak and Alex Bobet, international studies senior, supported Davis by wearing black and writing “I am Troy Davis” on their faces. Bobet said she had hoped for a retrial and was shocked when the Supreme Court did not halt his execution. Davis’ death was a violation of the Constitution and the sanctity of life, she said. Bobet and Broussard said they have met students who disagree with them, but after opponents learned more about Davis’ case, they changed their minds. Broussard said she will continue express anger at Davis’ death as similar cases surface across the nation. “Getting people to think is the first step,” she said. Davis’ vigil ended as Broussard led the huddled group in a rendition of “Amazing Grace.” Story by BRIAN SIBILLE
far right Protesters chant anti-death penalty slogans in Jackson, Ga. on Sept. 21. Photo courtesy of THE ASSOCIATED PRESS Top Supporters hold hands during a prayer Sept. 21 for Troy Davis at the Memorial Tower. Photo by morgan searles middle Joan Broussard and fellow students hold a candlelight vigil Sept. 25. Photo by MARIAH POSTLETHWAITE inset Troy Davis enters a courtroom Aug. 22, 1991 during his trail. Photo courtesy of THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Interior design senior Leslie Gambino recently saw campus from a new angle. Navigating crowded areas like Middleton Library is usually easy for her. She had more difficulty when confined to a wheelchair.
accessible for all is preferable to designing a separate doorway for disabled individuals to enter, she said.
Benjamin Cornwell, director of Disability Services and assistant dean of students, said there Gambino’s journey through campus have been many changes from the perspective of a disabled making campus more student is part of “Interior Design at wheelchair accessible over LSU: A Universal Design Experience,” the last decade. a project created by the Interior Design Student Organization But there is room for meant to enhance awareness of improvement, he said. For example, there is no
handicapped accessibility when students design buildings. Able-bodied participants partnered to complete various tasks in a wheelchair around campus while taking pictures at each location. Allison Canal, interior design senior and IDSO president, said the organization wants to address the disadvantages disabled individuals experience on a daily basis. Rachel Birch, interior design junior, said navigating Lockett Hall in a wheelchair was challenging. She said it was difficult to open the door and there was no handicapped stall in the bathroom. When exiting the bathroom, the space was so narrow she could barely turn around. Birch’s partner, interior design junior Gennifer Williams, said going down ramps hurt her hands as she tried to control the wheelchair. But physical strain was not the only challenge of the experience. “[It was difficult] emotionally. Everyone was staring at me,” Gambino said. “It almost makes you feel a little defeated.” Gambino said she battled rough changes in pavement in the Quad and struggled to fit her wheelchair through the stacks in the library. “Everywhere I went there was a chair in the way, a table in the way,” she said. Gambino said she is now motivated to design universally. Building a single entrance
elevator in Himes Hall, preventing wheelchairs from reaching the basement or second floor. A physically disabled student can’t use the computer-based testing center, he said. They must instead take exams at Disability Services. Cornwell said some older campus buildings violate the Americans With Disabilities Act standards. If these buildings are renovated, they must meet the current code. Funding has been allocated to build a ramp leading into Woodin Hall. Other projects are also in the works, Cornwell said. A $3.50 Facility Access fee on every student’s fee bill helps fund accessibility construction. He said total funding averages about $160,000 per year. Cornwell said curb cuts can cost $3,000 to $5,000 apiece, while wheelchair ramps are anywhere from $10,000 to $40,000 each. “I don’t always know where all the issues are until someone says, ‘Hey, this is a problem,’” Cornwell said. Next semester, Canal said, the IDSO will compile all the information from students’ experiences in the Universal Design Project to create a display on the Design Building atrium wall. Story by juliann allen
Interior design senior Meg Chopin, member of the Universal Design project, struggles to open a Design Building door Sept. 20. Photo by zach breaux
Far Right A daily salad bar available at The 5. middle An entrĂŠe of rice-stuffed zucchini. left A variety of fresh fruit available at The 5 on Sept. 28. Photos by EMILY SLACK
The menu at The 5 dining hall was redesigned in fall 2011 to offer healthier meal options, according to LSU Dining Director David Heidke. Briggitte Mosley, director of athletic dining and registered dietitian, said college students’ bodies are able to handle bad eating habits, but balanced nutrition will be more important later in life. Last semester the majority of foods offered were fried or had similar unhealthy qualities, said Charlie Casrill, director of resident dining. Instead of offering hamburgers, hot dogs, grilled cheese and fries, the staff will serve lighter entrées like grilled chicken, Casrill said.
Other upgrades include installing flavored hamburgers, water dispensers as an alternative to though.” sugary drinks, Mosley said. Some students, like chemistry “We have moved to more set meals. sophomore Drew Harding, are Our marketplace [station] is an opposed to the switch. actual three-course meal. It’s your protein, your starches and your “They changed the taco bar and vegetables,” Casrill said. replaced it with sunflower seeds and fruits. I spoke with a lot Menu changes are determined by of people that enjoyed [tacos],” student and parent feedback and Harding said. societal trends, Casrill said. Casrill said students who enjoyed “Every semester we do a survey,” less healthy dining choices will still Casrill said. “They may suggest that be able to enjoy those options, just we bring back a specific item. Those not as frequently. are the things we pay attention to.” “We shouldn’t have ice cream Erin Romaine, biological engineering and cookies every day,” Heidke sophomore, said she appreciates the said. “Eating healthy is all about a improved deli. balance.” “I didn’t like how students could touch the food. Now there are fewer germs,” she said. “I miss the
Story by paul braun
Hollydays Shoppers attend Holly Days, an annual Christmas-themed market Oct. 14. Photos by MARIAH POSTLETHWAITE
Arches and ornaments decorated the Baton Rouge River Center during the 28th annual Hollydays, a Christmas-themed market.
Approximately 12,500 shoppers and more than 170 merchants from across the country attended this year’s event, Shirley said.
“It puts me in the holiday spirit,” Moore said. “And I like the unique items.”
Proceeds from the event, which was held Oct. 12 to 15, benefited the
In honor of the organization’s 80th Harmon Canon of Minnie Beasley’s anniversary, a preview party was Cookie Company came from Denver. held Oct. 12, Shirley said.
Junior League of Baton Rouge’s 17 community projects, said Michelle Shirley, Hollydays chairwoman and University alumna. She said the event’s net total was $425,000.
“We do a lot of Junior League shows throughout the country,” Canon said. “My product fits this clientele: Southern women. Women love the almond, butter and sugar cookie.”
“We could not do this without the support of the community, whether it’s from our largest donor or from someone buying a ticket,” she said.
Hollydays shopper Denny Moore said she has attended for five years. She bought a handmade dress and a vintage necklace.
Giveaways included door prizes, wine tasting, ginger bread house decorating for children, a life-size game of Candy Land, martini night, a Rolex and Mercedes raffle and the Hollydays 5K Hustle, Shirley said. Lindsay Madatic, employee relations coordinator with the University’s Human Resource Management
department and promotions chairman of Hollydays, said she participates in volunteer events through the Junior League. “Hollydays is the largest fundraiser in Louisiana, and it’s a great way
to have fun and give back to the community,” Madatic said. Story by Claire Caillier
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Animal sciences students care for their assigned horses Sept. 1. Photos by LAUREN DUHON
Laura Gentry brought a new clip-clopping rhythm this fall to the School of Animal Sciences. Working with Baton Rouge Parks and Recreation’s Farr Park Equestrian Center, Gentry taught students to maintain equipment and ride and handle horses. Gary Hay, director of the School of Animal Sciences, said the class consists of two hours of lecture and two hours of hands-on lab each week. The Equestrian Center provides the necessary tack, animals and acreage. Students enrolled in the course paid $500 each to BREC, which totals $25 per hour of lab. Hay said this is half of BREC’s normal lesson fee. Hay said Gentry, who owns horses and competes in equestrian events, was the driving force of the program, which took over a year to coordinate. According to Gentry, interest is high. She said the course teaches students to safely work and communicate with horses and builds a relationship between students and animals. Horses respond to their handlers, Gentry said. Safety, calm atmosphere, gentle handling and respect are key. Gentry said riders steer using light, temporary pressure. Gentry said students will become atune to their horses’ needs. “If we know what they’re trying to tell us, we can better communicate,” Gentry said. “We’re trying to get them to be true horsemen, be safe and communicate.” Each student is assigned to a horse for the duration of the class based on past horse experience and evaluation by the Equestrian Center, said Melissa Wood, the center’s special facilities manager. “We are very excited we were able to join forces with LSU and make this happen,” Wood said. Aryelle Stafford, animal sciences sophomore, said the experience is unique. “We’re really lucky that we can actually come out and work with real instructors who love horses,” Stafford said. Mary Kendrick, animal sciences sophomore, said horses’ personalities change often. “It’s never going to be the same ride twice,” she said. Hay said the course, called Animal Sciences 2030 or basic horsemanship, requires completion of the prerequisite Animal Sciences 1011. Basic horsemanship enrolled 44 students during the fall semester. Hay said ANSC 3030, or advanced horsemanship, is already in the works. The department is also considering constructing Equine Science and Management curriculum for animal sciences majors. Story by MEREDITH WILL
Top left Jim Mayne, associate director of Utility Services, gives students a tour of the tunnel system under the Art Building on Sept. 7.
The truth behind the underground tunnels revealed
The tunnel system winding below the Quad has spurred student curiosity and decades of urban legends. The oldest tunnels were installed when the Quad was built in 1927, according to Jim Mayne, associate director of Utility Services. They were designed by Theodore Link, master planner and architect.
In some areas underground piping runs through trench-sized tunnels rather than passages large enough to walk through, like one that runs across Highland Road to Grace King Hall.
“No tunnel runs from here to downtown,” he said. “There are a lot of things between here and there a tunnel couldn’t get through.”
Stories about tunnels connecting Mayne said students have long been intrigued by the underground system. dorms have also surfaced. Mayne maintains that would be impossible since a person can’t climb from a “It was popular for students to try to tunnel to the inside of a building. get in the tunnels when ‘Dungeons The tunnels transport steam, natural and Dragons’ was popular,” he said. gas, water, sewage and drainage to “My wife attended LSU in the 1970s, Spencer Harbin, psychology and and from buildings and the campus history senior, said some friends have and it was one of the challenges of Power House. her friends to go down in tunnels and traveled through the tunnels. come up in the Parade Ground.” Mayne said the “I heard they were old original purpose of the military tunnels,” Harbin underground tunnels said. “I’d really like to go was to provide steam down there just to see and heat to buildings. where they go, but I think they have some of the “Originally that small set entrances blocked off.” JUSTIN OVERMAN history senior of tunnels did service the buildings in the Justin Overman, history Quad,” he said. “We do senior, said he heard the have other tunnels that tunnels ran underneath come off of that and Tiger Stadium. come out of the Power House that Mayne said consequences for being serve additional areas on campus.” “I’d want to go down there, but caught in the tunnels can include knowing my luck I’d get caught,” he expulsion, but he hadn’t heard of The Quad tunnel reaches the anyone expelled for that reason in his said. Pentagon community, snakes behind six years working at the University. Hill Memorial Library and juts out For safety reasons most tunnel toward the Journalism and Cox entrances and exits remain unlocked. Rumors has it that tunnels once Communications buildings. Mayne said a gasket could blow or a linked the University to the State steam line could fail in which case a Capitol, supposedly so former A newer tunnel runs from the Power governor Huey P. Long could exit a maintenance worker would need a House directly to the Art Building, football game without fighting traffic. quick escape. then down South Campus Drive to Highland Road and eventually reaches Mayne said this and all other rumors “There’s nothing pleasant down north to the Law Center. there,” Mayne said. “I don’t know he’s heard are not true.
“I’d want to go down there, but knowing my luck I’d get caught.”
why people would want to go. I don’t even go down there unless I have to.” Problems within the system are unusual and are generally indicated by the loud sound of steam leaking. Workers check the tunnels at least once a quarter, identifying and repairing small leaks. A repair project of the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act of 2009, a federal government stimulus package, will fund the reinstallation of piping to fix a larger steam leak. Mayne said steam clouds can be seen near Blake, East Laville and West Laville Halls. This is caused by a condensate leak but is no cause for alarm. He said the steam line is in good shape. “Water contacts the steam line and steam boils off the line, sort of like spitting on an iron,” he said. Mayne said the leak costs the University around $200 a day, but the loss is only in condensate, not energy. Story and photos by Morgan searles
John Gargano, ceramic professor at the University of Lafayette, makes a jar lid on a pottery wheel at Red Hot Days of Clay on June 25. Photo by MORGAN SEARLES
Cowboys, gods and superheroes “It’s mostly kept awareness high. jumped from the comic book There are so many video games, page to the movie screen in 2011. movies and comics that it’s impossible for these characters to Comics have been part of American die,” Walley said. culture for decades. The transition to movies was inevitable. Walley added that movies don’t usually drive young children to read Comic book movies “bring in comic books. people that haven’t read about the characters before, or they bring “Kids don’t care about comic books,” in old readers that haven’t read in Walley said. “I’ve seen parents come years,” said Derek Davis, manager of in with their kids, and they just Louisiana’s Double Play. aren’t interested.”
“And they aren’t all quality movies,” Walley said. “It’s great that Hollywood has started taking notice, but they keep mining it.”
But not everyone is reaping the benefits. Jeffery Walley, owner of Walley’s Pop Comics on Jefferson Highway, doesn’t think the movies have significantly influenced sales.
It’s no secret that comic book movies have been immensely successful. According to IMDb.com, “Transformers: Dark of the Moon” grossed a whopping $347 million, almost double its estimated budget. “The Dark Knight” grossed more than $1 billion.
“Maybe they should spread out their production of comic book movies,” Smith said. “It’s going to make people sick of superheroes.”
Unfortunately, success isn’t typical.
Story by TAYLOR BALKOM
Students are starting to get sick of the films as well. Lauren Smith, natural resource ecology and management sophomore, said she isn’t tired of the films that follow the books, but dislikes ones that “butcher the plot,” like the X-Men trilogy.
“If you keep putting cruddy movies out, people will get tired of them,” Walley said.
Jeffrey Walley mans the counter Aug. 23 at his store Walley’s Pop Comics. Photos by BLAIR LOCKHART
Top right The 20th century costume worn in “Land of the Blind” by Lara Flynn Boyle. bottom right The 18th century costume worn in “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl” by Johnny Depp. Photos by MORGAN SEARLES
Historical film costume exhibit dresses up local museum Whether waltzing with a phantom or sailing seas with a swashbuckling crew, the clothes in the CUT! exhibit have seen their fair share of exciting cinema moments.
costumes worn by famous movie stars,” Spell said.
woman responsible for selecting garments for the exhibit. “It’s definitely a different type of exhibition than we’ve done before,” Spell said.
The Louisiana Art & Science Museum displayed 43 articles from May 7 to July 31. The collection featured costumes from 25 period films, worn by actors such as Johnny Depp, Kate Winslet and Keira Knightley.
“This exhibit appeals to people with a wide range of interests. A lot of people who come through are pop culture fans, and some are literary historians.”
Hundreds attended every day and some returned for multiple visits, Spell said the 16th through the 20th Spell said. centuries are represented in the costumes, which accurately show “This is something we don’t have the evolution of fashion. the opportunity to do very often,” she said. “People still talk about and Stephanie Cronan, communications still remember the caliber of these sophomore, said the exhibit types of exhibitions.” exceeded her expectations. Cronan said seeing costumes in the “I really liked the costumes from movies doesn’t compare to viewing ‘Gosford Park,’ ‘Jane Eyre’ and ‘Sense them in person. and Sensibility,’” Cronan said. “I love movies and seeing costumes “I wish the movies could show off from some of my favorites was the details of the costumes better,” amazing.” Cronan said. “The exhibit had items from some really good movies — Spell said costumes arrived at the enough to interest fans of every museum in storage crates specially genre.” made for each article. The costumes were unpacked and repaired, if Story by MORGAN SEARLES necessary, by Nancy Lawson, the
Selected from the stockrooms of Cosprop Ltd., an Oscar-winning costumier in London, LASM was the exhibit’s third tour stop. Kelly Spell, communications coordinator for LASM, said the museum coordinated the exhibit for about two years and paid significantly more than normally spent on exhibitions. “It’s an opportunity for people to get in close and personal with intricately made, well-designed
“Whether you like the name or not, it sticks in people’s heads.” Richard Cassagne restaurant manager
“Whether you like the name or not, it sticks in people’s heads,” manager Richard Cassagne said of his new burger joint Fat Cow. Fat Cow is defined as a “fast, casual counter-serve restaurant,” with the atmosphere of an “industrial barn,” Cassagne said. The restaurant, specializing in gourmet hamburgers and salads, features reclaimed wood and stainless steel accents. The modern yet rustic motif includes contrasting charcoal and orange walls and a slab of solid concrete for a bar counter. Windowed garage doors lead to an outdoor patio with additional seating and televisions. The patio will include a fireplace during colder weather. Cassagne said he hopes Fat Cow will become a venue for watching football games. In lieu of a traditional register system, cashiers ring up orders on iPads. The restaurant operates through a connection that allows him to publish menu items and track sales and inventory, Cassagne said. “We want to keep up with the times,” Cassagne said. Owners Doug Hosford and Barrett Nobile said opening the restaurant near the University’s campus seemed the “natural choice.” They said the location makes Fat Cow accessible to families and college students.
level,” he said. “It’s different from what people are used to.” Hosford said he began developing a better burger in 2009. He and partners tested 100 variations before they found the perfect blend, seasoned with only salt and pepper. Hosford said his team went to Washington, D.C., to taste the country’s best burgers and sampled 20 in 20 hours. “After number five, you can really critique a burger,” Hosford said. “You have to have good condiments.” Fat Cow burgers are topped with dressings from homemade salsa and banana peppers to foie gras and pear slices. Nobile said Fat Cow offers a “cleaner product” because the restaurant grinds and prepares its own meat every day and uses minimal preservatives. Cassagne said Fat Cow will serve alcohol and remain open on game days until 2 a.m. but will not become a bar. Nobile said he anticipated preparing 100 to 150 burgers daily and expected to see customers “trickle in.” “But they didn’t,” Hosford said. He calculated a daily average of 300500 burgers.
Alex Beem, petroleum engineering sophomore, said he’s been to Fat Cow two or three Hosford, a former fine dining chef, times and plans to return. said his goal is to bring the flavors and quality of upscale dishes to “It’s the best location that accepts the classic hamburger. Tiger Cash,” Beem said. “We want to take the quality of food in this atmosphere to a new
Chad Thompson, physics junior, eats a Fat Cow burger at the restaurant Sept. 5. Photos by BENJAMIN OLIVER HICKS
Story by EMILY HERRINGTON
After the murder of her father by her mother and stepfather, a young girl takes justice into her own hands in “Electra,” a classic tragedy by Sophocles. The play kicked off the University’s fall 2011 Lab Theatre season and was performed Sept. 6-11.
Set in the city of Argos shortly after the Trojan War, Electra and her brother Orestes seek to avenge the death of their father, Agamemnon. “This production of ‘Electra’ highlights the timeless themes of murder and revenge,” said assistant director Ben Koucherik,
a second-year MFA candidate in the University’s professional actor training program. The play questions the “validity of revenge as a means of honorable justice or irrational self-indulgence,” according to a news release.
“We have all worked incredibly hard on the piece, and it promises to be a great showcase for all of our talents in both performance and production design,” Koucherik said. Story by TAYLOR BALKOM
TOP & bottom right Graduate student Katrina Despain rehearses Sept. 5 in the Studio Theatre of the Music and Dramatic Arts Building. Photos by MARIAH POSTLETHWAITE