Check Online & Inside For:
a free download of The Benjy Davis Project’s song “Stay With Me” from it’s new album, and see page 6 for a question and answer session with the band.
SPORTS Famed coach Bobby Bowden to visit LSU in March, page 7.
Doppelgänger Fail? Mainieri expresses confusion about being compared to McCain, page 12.
THE DAILY REVEILLE WWW.LSUREVEILLE.COM
VolumeÊ 114,Ê IssueÊ 88
LAW
Former professor to file suit against LSU
Wednesday,Ê FebruaryÊ 10,Ê 2010
CULTURAL CANVASES
By Xerxes A. Wilson Senior Staff Writer
Former University Professor and hurricane expert Ivor van Heerden is planning a lawsuit against the University that alleges he was wrongfully terminated and harassed by University officials. A press release from a civil rights and employment law firm representing van Heerden said the lawsuit will claim van Heerden was wrongfully terminated for his criticisms of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers following levee failures during Hurricane Katrina. Van HeerdenÕ s contract as a research professor was not renewed last year. The suit will claim University officials manipulated policies and procedures governing faculty appointments to terminate van Heerden. The suit also claims University officials took part in a Ò campaign of harassmentÓ against van Heerden. Van Heerden said Tuesday the forms of harassment included removing his right to teach and denying contractual obligations. Van Heerden and his attorneys will discuss the allegations today at a news conference in New Orleans. Ò According to what I was told, the administration was upset because they felt my research on why the levees failed in Hurricane Katrina was hurting the UniversityÕ s ability to secure federal dollars,Ó van Herdeen said. Van Heerden told The Daily Reveille on April 14, 2009, University officials informed him his termination had nothing to do with budget cuts. Van Heerden also said University officials told him he would be fired if he agreed to be the expert witness for a $600 billion lawsuit against the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Artists, students decorate masks to benefit School of Art, celebrate Mardi Gras JAMES WEST / The Daily Reveille
Wilma Roy’s “Magritte de Gras” awaits bidding at the Mardi Gras Mask Sale at the Glassell Gallery on Feb 9. All proceeds benefit the LSU School of Art Galleries.
By Ryan Buxton Senior Staff Writer
As Mardi Gras marches full-force into Louisiana, the LSU School of Art is unmasking local artistsÕ unique takes on one of the hallmarks of the holiday. The School of ArtÕ s Glassell Gallery hosted more than 70 Mardi Gras masks Tuesday, each decorated by an artist from the Baton Rouge community. Every artist received a blank mask and was encouraged to cut loose and let creative instincts take over. The creations went much further than sequins, glitter and purple, green and gold. Sea monsters, stamps and humorously decorated paper bags are just a few of the unique creations the artists paraded onto their masks, said Malia Krolak, gallery coordinator for the School of Art. The masks were auctioned with proceeds
going back to the School of Art. Donation totals will be tallied today or Thursday, Krolak said. Krolak said the artists relished the chance to put their own imaginative perspective on a holiday so ingrained in LouisianaÕ s culture. Ò Traditionally, [Mardi Gras] is your last big party before you Log on to see have to give up chocolate for photos of the Lent,Ó Krolak said. Ò That ties different masks. into the creative community very well. ItÕ s really a time for creative expression and freedom and a little bit of wackiness.Ó Krolak said many of the masks contain signatures that make the masks extensions of the themes in the artistsÕ work. Ò Elise Toups is a local artist who does a lot of portraits, and her mask has eyes on it, so when you put it on, itÕ s like you are an Elise Toups portrait,Ó
lsureveille.com
MASKS, see page 15
NFL
Thousands gather for parade Locals celebrate Super Bowl win with players By Cory Boudreaux Sports Contributor
PATRICK SEMANSKY / The Associated Press
Contact Xerxes A. Wilson at xwilson@lsureveille.com
she said. Meg Holford, assistant gallery coordinator at the School of Art, created a mask using correspondence the gallery received. She removed stamps from the envelopes and collaged them on the mask. Ò I wanted it to be different than the usual glittery, shiny, feathery mask,Ó Holford said. Ò I wanted to connect more to the traditional sort of art Ñ less crafts, more fine art.” Many of the masks donated to the School of Art came from students at the University Laboratory School. Students created masks that ran the gamut from SpongeBob SquarePants to characters from the video game Halo, said Beverly Wilson, chair of the Lab School fine arts department.
Saints quarterback Drew Brees raises a glass of champagne Tuesday in a parade celebrating New Orleans’ Super Bowl win.
NEW ORLEANS — The floodwaters of Hurricane Katrina inundated the streets of New Orleans nearly five years ago, leaving the New Orleans Saints no place to call home for an entire season. The scene was vastly different Tuesday as a deluge of Saints fans lined the streets of downtown New Orleans to welcome home the Saints following the teamÕ s Super Bowl victory against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday night.
The city celebrated its first professional sports championship in a fashion familiar to New Orleans Ñ a parade. A number of marching bands accompanied a fleet of a dozen floats, provided by some of the cityÕ s premiere Mardi Gras krewes, that carried more than 250 Saints players, coaches and staff members. The three-mile route stretched from the New Orleans Superdome to the Ernest M. Morial Convention Center. The city, still scarred from Hurricane Katrina, was able to stand proudly for a sports franchise that has become an integral part of the fabric of New Orleans. Bobby Hebert, former Saints quarterback and radio analyst, addressed a raucous crowd in front of Gallier Hall on St. Charles Avenue before PARADE, see page 15
THE DAILY REVEILLE
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2010
Nation & World
INTERNATIONAL
NATIONAL
Haiti government says death toll for earthquake up to 230,000
Convicted killer of Kansas abortion doctor says he has no regrets
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP) Ñ HaitiÕ s government has raised the death toll for the Jan. 12 earthquake to 230,000 from 212,000 and says more bodies remain uncounted. The government initially estimated 150,000 dead from bodies being recovered in the rubble of collapsed buildings.
WICHITA, Kan. (AP) Ñ The convicted killer of a Kansas abortion provider has little sympathy for the family of his victim, comparing them to the relatives of a hit man in a recording posted online. In his first public comments since his trial for the murder of Dr. George Tiller, Scott Roeder also criticized those who sought to keep the issue of abortion out of the proceedings altogether, saying it was like asserting that the trial for abolitionist John Brown was not about slavery.
Russian military calls US missile defense plans a threat MOSCOW (AP) Ñ U.S. missile defense plans are a threat to Russian national security and have slowed down progress on a new arms control treaty with Washington, Russia’s top military officer said Tuesday. Gen. Nikolai Makarov said that a revised U.S. plan to place missiles in Europe undermines RussiaÕ s national defense, rejecting Obama administration promises that the plan is not directed at his country.
Roanoke man claims Virginia deputies beat him for burping ROANOKE, Va. (AP) Ñ A Roanoke man claims sheriffÕ s deputies beat him in the city jail because of his burping. Thomas Scott Vandegrift made the allegations in a federal lawsuit filed last week against several deputies, the city, the sheriffÕ s
office and the sheriff. According to the lawsuit, the deputies were annoyed by VandegriftÕ s burping, which was caused by acid reflux. Vandegrift was being held at the jail on a drunken driving charge. He pleaded no contest in 2008 and received a six-month suspended sentence, a $750 fine and a year of driving restrictions. Double hand transplant patient leaves Pennsylvania hospital PITTSBURGH (AP) Ñ The nationÕ s first double hand transplant recipient left a Pittsburgh hospital after medicine cleared up a rash that signaled he might be rejecting his new hands. University of Pittsburgh Medical Center spokeswoman Amy Dugas says 58-year-old Jeff Kepner, of Augusta, Ga., was discharged Monday from UPMC Montefiore hospital. Kepner received the hands at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in May and went home in October.
PAGE 2
STATE/LOCAL
Judge refuses to halt lawsuit against man accused in noose case
Lawmakers have trouble deciphering Department of Education contracts
(AP) Ñ A state judge refused Monday to put the brakes on a lawsuit against a Baton Rouge man accused of putting a hangmanÕ s noose in a black colleagueÕ s work area in 2008. Reginald Drummer sued Reggie Parent in October on the anniversary of ParentÕ s arrest under LouisianaÕ s new anti-noose law. ParentÕ s attorney, Mark Carver, asked District Judge Mike Caldwell to put the civil suit on hold because Parent still has not been formally charged by prosecutors or a grand jury. Carver argued that anything Parent says in the civil proceeding could prejudice him in the pending criminal matter. Ò HeÕ s caught between ... a rock and a hard place,Ó Carver said. DrummerÕ s attorney, Lindsey Scott, countered that the criminal charge against Parent is not set for trial and said Drummer should not be forced to wait “indefinitely” on the criminal proceedings.
(AP) Ñ Lawmakers trying to comb through millions of dollars in services contracts in the state Department of Education are having trouble getting a handle on the numbers. Data presented Tuesday showed the education department had entered into more than 6,000 contracts over the last six fiscal years, totaling $894 million. This yearÕ s contracts were listed at $342 million. New Orleans area senator wants ‘Who Dat Nation’ license plate (AP) Ñ A New Orleans area legislator wants to applaud the Super Bowlwinning New Orleans Saints with a Louisiana license plate. Sen. A.G. Crowe, a Republican from Slidell, says heÕ s proposing the creation of a specialty license plate to honor the Saints and their Ò Who Dat NationÓ followers. The bill will be considered in the legislative session that begins March 29.
Find The Daily Reveille on Facebook at www.facebook.com/lsureveille Log on to read the latest blog on Women’s Basketball. Follow The Daily Reveille on for news and sports updates and breaking news at: TDR_news, TDR_sports, lsureveille.
TODAY
Weather 51 34
Love Jones: Be Safe and Sweet NAACP Week- healthy table sit Free Speech Alley 11am-2pm Free GMAT Strategy Workshop Wednesday, Feb 10 6-7:30p.m Sponsored by LSU Test Prep Register online: www.outreach.lsu.edu/test LSU Scotch Guard Do you like volunteering? Do you want to support the LSU Army ROTC? Contact: lsuarmyscotchguard@gmail. com for more information Mr. & Miss Imani Pageant February 18, 2010 LSU Student Union Ballroom, 7:00pm
The Ladies of the Eta Kappa Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority “Racing for the Kure: Breast Cancer Awareness” Wednesday Feb. 10th @ 7:08 Coates 152 Attire is Business Casual For more info contact Kristen Dufachard @ kdufau1@tigers.lsu.edu
FREE RIDE
Mostly Sunny
THURSDAY The National Society of Collegiate Scholars presents Integrity Week Display your integrity by signing the NSCS Integrity Banner all week in Free Speech Alley from 10:00am-2:00pm
45 37 SATURDAY 57 35
FRIDAY 46 31 SUNDAY 57 33
LINDSEY McGEHEE / The Daily Reveille
Sankofa Poets February 11, 2010 LSU Faculty Club, 6:00pm Gamme Beta Phi Society Charity Event 911 Style & Fashion Model Selections. Feb. 22, 2010. 7-9pm Cotillion Ballroom Please bring a 4x6 photo For info contact: Meiosha Sutton msutton@lsu.edu Genesis Tutoring- FREE! Monday- Thursday 5pm-9pm Office of Multicultural Affairs, 355 Student Union 578-4339
7:20 a.m. 8:20 a.m. Noon 3:20 p.m. 4:20 p.m. 5:20 p.m.
Log on to see pictures of different forms of transportation around campus.
CORRECTIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS
The Daily Reveille holds accuracy and objectivity at the highest priority and wants to reassure the reporting and content of the paper meets these standards.This space is reserved to recognize and correct any mistakes which may have been printed in The Daily Reveille. If you would like something corrected or clarified please contact the editor at (225) 5784811 or e-mail editor@lsureveille.com.
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
The Daily Reveille (USPS 145-800) is written, edited and produced solely by students of Louisiana State University. The Daily Reveille is an independent entity within the Manship School of Mass Communication. A single issue of The Daily Reveille is free. To purchase additional copies for 25 cents, please contact the Office of Student Media in B-34 Hodges Hall. The Daily Reveille is published daily during the fall and spring semesters and semi-weekly during the summer semester, except during holidays and final exams. Secondclass copies postage paid at Baton Rouge, La., 70803. Annual weekly mailed subscriptions are $125, semester weekly mailed subscriptions are $75. Non-mailed student rates are $4 each regular semester, $2 during the summer; one copy per person, additional copies 25 cents each. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Daily Reveille, B-39 Hodges Hall, LSU, Baton Rouge, La.,70803.
THE DAILY REVEILLE B-16 Hodges Hall • Baton Rouge, La. 70803
NICHOLAS PERSAC JERIT ROSER GERRI SAX ELLEN ZIELINSKI ADAM DUVERNAY SARAH LAWSON ROBERT STEWART DAVID HELMAN STEPHANIE GIGLIO MATTHEW ALBRIGHT J.J. ALCANTARA KRISTEN ROWLETT STEVEN POWELL LAUREN ROBERTS
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THE DAILY REVEILLE
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2010
PAGE 3
STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS
University NAACP hosts week of fun, service, education between current members and get new members involved. The University NAACP group does service projects during the year to promote acting community service such as singing Christmas carols to the elderly and providing for a family during Thanksgiving. Barnes said the NAACP branch on campus gives all minorities an active club in which to do community service. The club has around 30 members, but students are welcome to attend meetings. Other events for this week include “Love Jones: Be Safe & Sweet” in Free Speech Alley on Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., NAACP Member Appreciation Night on Thursday at 5 p.m. in Lockett and the service project at the Boys & Girls Club on Friday at 4 p.m.
like Battle of the Sexes and Taboo. Wade is hosting an event on
Friday called “Man on Fire: Fire Safety and Prevention.” He said the group will host the Baton Rouge Boys & Girls Club, and the children will learn firearm safety measures. Monday’s event was a political forum where students could discuss current political issues and debate in an informal setting. Political science junior Kenn Barnes planned the event and said they discussed Haiti, the “don’t ask, don’t tell” military policy and problems in Uganda. “We stated facts and then opened the discussion up about what should be done,” said Keisha Perkins, art senior. Barnes said they discussed budget cuts and decided to call Louisiana representatives to express concern. “We need to do something that we can change,” Barnes said. “We’re trying to make [the representatives] more responsible.” Barnes said he hopes this week will create cohesion
surrendered 2.2 grams of marijuana, a glass pipe and a metal grinder. Pilgrim was issued a misdemeanor summons and released.
firearm with a controlled and dangerous substance, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia, Scott said.
RIDINÕ DIRTY Just after midnight on Feb. 7, police observed a suspicious person parked on East Chimes Street, Scott said. The officer made a traffic stop when he observed the car make a Uturn on Highland Road, Scott said. The officer noticed a pipe and a bag of marijuana in the car, Scott said. Upon further search, the police recovered a handgun and two magazines of ammunition. Police also recovered an ammunition box containing 19.1 grams of marijuana, Scott said. The driver, Donnie Carey, a 30 year old unaffiliated with the University of 2507 Spain St., was arrested and booked into East Baton Rouge Parish Prison for possession of a
CHUTES AND LADDERS On Feb. 5 at 2:14 a.m. police responded to an attempted theft at the Power House on the corner of Fieldhouse and South Stadium drives. University staff reported seeing a man attempting to steal a ladder. Once noticed, the man fled without the ladder, Scott said. Police later contacted Bryce
Beard, a 22-year-old student of 3030 Tall Timbers Road. The University staff identified Beard as the culprit, Scott said. Beard was arrested for criminal mischief and disturbing the peace.
Groups informs community of issues By Catherine Threlkeld Staff Writer
The University NAACP group is offering a fun-filled week of festivities and education opportunities to students and Baton Rouge community members. The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People is a nationwide civil rights organization, and the University group’s goal is to serve for community outreach, said Devon Wade, sociology senior. “We inform members of campus about social issues that affect LSU,” Wade said. “We do services that educate people about being involved in their community.” Each day of the week features an activity, ranging from a board game night to a member appreciation night.
NICOLE KARAMICHAEL / The Daily Reveille
Stella O’Rourke, communication studies senior, and Kandace Richardson, business freshman, try to guess the word Keisha Perkins, art senior, selected Tuesday while playing Taboo at LSU NAACP’s Battle of the Sexes Game Night.
Members gathered in the West Campus Apartments’ Activity Center on Tuesday for games
Campus Crime Briefs lsureveille.com
STREET FIGHTER On Feb. 5, Ryan Murphy, a 22-year-old student of 296 Al Harvey Road, Stonington, Conn., and Joseph Crifasi, an 18-year-old student of 296 Magnolia Drive, Metairie, were arrested for second degree battery and disturbing the peace, said LSU Police Department spokesman Log on Kevin Scott. to see a At about map of 2:25 a.m., police crimes were dispatched on campus. to a fight along Minnie Fisk Drive. At the scene, police found one student unconscious and another with minor injures, Scott said. Scott said witnesses reported the two injured students were involved in a fight with three other students who fled the scene. Police later arrested Murphy and Crifasi and released the other student involved, Scott said. Witnesses told police the
confrontation began while students were on a Tiger Trails bus and got physical once the students reached campus, Scott said. SMOKEY PILGRIM At about 4:15 p.m. on Feb. 5, police responded to a Jackson Hall staff member’s reports of possible drug use. Police made contact with Andrew Pilgrim, a 19-year-old student of 12228 NE 203 St., Bothell, Wash. Scott said Pilgrim admitted he had been smoking marijuana and
Contact Catherine Threlkeld at cthrelkeld@lsureveille.com
UNDER INVESTIGATION Police are investigating a car burglary in Graham Hall parking lot reported on Feb. 4 at 3:48 p.m. Contact The Daily Reveille’s news staff at news@lsureveille.com
THE DAILY REVEILLE
PAGE 4
HEALTH
H1N1 outnumbers seasonal flu cases of H1N1, Hupperich said. But the Health Center stopped swabbing patients for the virus at the end of last semester, so the number does not represent the true total. The Health Center still has By Grace Montgomery more than 100 inoculations in Staff Writer their Injection Clinic available More patients are report- free of charge to students, Hupping having the H1N1 virus than erich said. the seasonal flu, even though the They are unlikely to order seasonal flu is curmore unless the rently in its peak need arises, Hupseason. perich said. This trend Ò Despite agfollows a study by gressive marketthe Center of Dising, interest in ease Control and getting the vacciPrevention that nation seems to be found more cases dwindling,” HupJulie Hupperich of H1N1 than seaperich said. Associate Director, sonal flu nationThe Health Student Health Center ally. Center usually “Flu, to date, seems to be treats fewer than 10 cases per day, H1N1 over seasonal flu,” said Hupperich said. Student Health Center Associate Ò Most people who want to get Director Julie Hupperich. the vaccine have already gotten Flu season lasts from late No- it,” Hupperich said. vember to March with February as Cases of H1N1 first appeared the peak of the season, Hupperich on campus around spring break said. last year, Hupperich said. However, cases of H1N1 are dwindling overall. From the beginning of seContact Grace Montgomery at mester through Feb. 7, the Health gmontgomery@lsureveille.com Center treated 35 confirmed cases
Infection numbers seem to decline
‘‘
‘Despite aggressive marketing, interest in getting the vaccination seems to be dwindling.’
STATE
Two top legislative leaders say they have too many questions about a proposed LSU-Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center deal for it to proceed to final approval at this time. A vote had been scheduled for Friday. House Speaker Jim Tucker and House Appropriations Chairman Jim Fannin said lawmakers arenÕ t getting enough information, including how the deal would affect state finances. LSU and Our Lady of the Lake had been hoping for quick approval. The Advocate reported
MUSIC
Pauly D show may be set back Snow storms could delay DJ’s flight By Ryan Buxton Senior Staff Writer
Baton Rouge may have to wait a little longer to soak up a taste of the “Jersey Shore.” DJ Pauly D’s scheduled performance at Bogie’s tonight may have to be postponed if the MTV starÕ s air travel is delayed because of snow storms. Bogie’s owner, Aaron Saunier, said he spoke Tuesday with Pauly D’s agent, who wanted to warn
Saunier that Pauly D would be unable to make it if the Boston airport closes. Saunier said Pauly D wanted to give Bogie’s an early heads-up of that possibility. Ò He didnÕ t want to wait until tomorrow morning to give us a call,” Saunier said. Should the set be postponed, Saunier said there will definitely be a rescheduled date in late February or early March. All pre-sale tickets would still be valid for the new date, Saunier said. Saunier said he will know for sure Wednesday morning whether the event will go on as planned. As of press time Tuesday, the
Boston airport was still open, and Saunier said he expects Pauly D to arrive on schedule. Ò I have a pretty good feeling itÕ s going to happen,” he said. Saunier said he is working on putting together a back-up event for tonight, but nothing is definite. Students can follow the status of the show on the Bogie’s Facebook page. Doors are scheduled to open tonight at 9 p.m. for general admission and at 7 p.m. for pre-sale ticket holders. Tickets are $25 at the door. Contact Ryan Buxton at rbuxton@lsureveille.com
MATT SAYLES / The Associated Press
Lawmakers question OLOL hospital deal By The Associated Press
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2010
Tuesday the Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget will likely vote in March on the cooperative endeavor agreement that would lead to the ultimate closure of Earl K. Long Medical Center in Baton Rouge. The budget panel must sign off on the public-private partnership.
Contact The Daily Reveille’s news staff at news@lsureveille.com
“Jersey Shore” personalities, from left, Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino, Jenni “J-Woww” Farley, Nicole “Snooki” Polizzi and DJ Pauly D Delvecchio arrive at Spike TV’s Video Game Awards on Dec. 12 in Los Angeles.
WEdnEsdAy, fEbruAry 10, 2010
THE DAILY REVEILLE
PAGE 5
THE DAILY REVEILLE
Revelry Wednesday’s Q & A
Today’s KLSU 91.1 FM Specialty Shows: Beat Street (Trip Hop) 9 p.m.-11 p.m.; Underground Sounds (Underground Hip-Hop) 11 p.m.-1 a.m. Wednesday, february 10, 2010
PaGe 6
BRIANNA PACIORKA
/ The Daily Reveille
Q:
You guys have a new record coming out. What direction did the band go in for this album?
Visit lsureveille.com for a free download of “Stay With Me” from The Benjy Davis Project’s new album.
Capdevielle: “It’s our sound. It’s consistent with our past. We used to have a lot more stuff going on, like with a mandolin or a fiddle, but now I think it’s stripped down, and we’ve got a more modern rock setup.” Davis: “We got a lot of help from some Nashville guys, and we
got to use a lot of the local talent there, which was great and added some interesting stuff to our record. It’s a happier record than the last two. The album’s more mature, but it rotates between mature and immature.”
with The Benjy Davis Project Popular local southern rock act The Benjy Davis Project releases its new album, “Lost Souls Like Us,” on March 2. Core members Benjy Davis, right, and Mic Capdevielle recently sat down with entertainment writer Chris Abshire to talk about the new album and their Baton Rouge roots.
Q: You guys grew up in Baton Rouge. What
Capdevielle: “The crowds are very supportive. It’s almost like a home team atmokind of connection do you feel at the local shows sphere at a lot of shows here in town.” around town? Davis: “People here understand our Davis: “Shows in Baton Rouge are so music better. Our music is about my experiences much fun because of the energy the crowds here, so people can relate to the songs.” bring and I connect better with energetic fans.”
Q:
What did recording in Tennessee bring to the new album?
Capdevielle:
small town, Hendersonville”
“We recorded in this
Davis: “It’s a lot like Florida Boulevard, and that’s it. [laughs] We had some country session artists that were brought in and added layers of guitars and stuff like that we just can’t do ourselves.” Capdevielle: “They put some stuff on the tracks that we couldn’t have thought of and could just make you say, ‘Wow, I like that.’”
Q:
The band has had some moderate national and regional success. What has that kind of experience and exposure been like?
Capdevielle: “It’s been really cool. [With] the Abita commercial and other things like that, it’s been amazing that people can sing along to that song [“Sweet Southern Moon”] and know our stuff. We love it.” The Daily Reveille is looking for new entertainment writers. Stop by B-16 Hodges Hall if you’re interested.
Q:
How has growing up and living in Baton Rouge affected your songwriting?
Davis: “South Louisiana is such a musically and culturally rich place. All of the Zydeco, those types of music and the celebration of music in this area makes it easy to find something to say.”
THE DAILY REVEILLE
Sports
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2010
Alabama (Jan. 9): 66-49 One more loss will tie school record for worst Auburn (Jan. 20): 84-80 start in conference play
DOWNHILL slide
When the LSU men’s basketball team takes the floor Wednesday night, it will attempt to not be on the wrong side of history. A loss by the Tigers (9-14, 0-9) would tie the LSU record for the worst start in Southeastern Conference play in school history set by the 1957-58 team, which started 0-10 in the SEC before knocking off Alabama. LSU has seven more games to play in the SEC, and LSU coach Trent Johnson is optimistic about his team’s chances to be successful. “First thing I’m going to tell them before we meet is, ‘OK, we got seven to go,’” Johnson said. “Just as long as everybody stays the course and accepts responsibility for being in this situation.” The latest foe standing between LSU and its first conference win is a resurgent Arkansas squad. The Razorbacks (12-11, 5-3) lost three of their first four SEC contests, but have rattled off four wins in a row and now find themselves sitting in first place in the SEC West. “You look at the youth and inexperience they had last ARKANSAS, see page 11
FOOTBALL
Bowden to speak at LSU on March 20 By Staff Reports
By Johanathan Brooks Sports Writer
PAGE 7
Ole Miss (Jan. 23): 73-63 Tennessee (Feb. 4): 59-54
Kentucky (Feb. 6): 81-55
lsureveille.com Log on to read The Daily Reveille’s basketball blog.
photos by J.J. ALCANTARA / The Daily Reveille
Former Florida State coach Bobby Bowden will make an appearance at the LSU Football Coaches Clinic, the LSU Athletic Department announced Tuesday in a news release. Bowden will speak to coaches at the clinic Saturday, March 20. The clinic lasts March 18-20 and serves as a forum for high school coaches from Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida. Bowden recently retired from Florida State after winning 377 games in his career at both Florida State and West Virginia. He led the Seminoles to national titles in 1993 and 1999, 12 Atlantic Coast Conference championships and 21 bowl wins. “It’s an honor to have coaching legend Bobby Bowden be a part of our coaches clinic,” said LSU coach Les Miles in the release. “I have always respected and admired Coach Bowden because of what he has meant to the game of football,” Miles said. “Coach Bowden represents all of the things that are good about the game, and I’m looking forward to hearing him speak to the coaches in attendance.” Bowden will address the group of coaches before a scrimmage in Tiger Stadium. Contact The Daily Reveille’s sports staff at sports@lsureveille.com
BASEBALL
Mainieri looks to bench to provide fresh talent Dozar, Dishon to influence team By Andy Schwehm Sports Contributor
If last year proved anything about Paul Mainieri, it’s that the LSU baseball coach is always trying to improve his team, and he’s certainly not shy about it. The opening-day lineup in February for last season’s team looked quite different from the starting eight position players in the deciding national championship game against Texas in June.
Only four Tigers started in the same position in the first and last games of the season, and one of those Tigers — Derek Helenihi — lost his starting job for most of the season at third base to then-freshman Tyler Hanover. “I have never had a season in my 27 years of coaching where the lineup on day one was the same on the last day of the season,” Mainieri said. Mainieri is a strong advocate of hard work and dedication in practice leading to playing time off the bench. Mainieri has a case in point in his starting lineup this season for his bench players to look to. In fact, he has three.
Hanover and fellow sophomores Austin Nola and Mikie Mahtook started out their freshman campaigns on the bench before gradually moving into starting roles one at a time. “Opening the year as reserve players was a big adjustment for them,” Mainieri said. “Nola was starting for Catholic High [in Baton Rouge] since he was a ninth grader. The other two, I’m sure, were in similar situations. But they kept working hard, and when the opportunity was there, they took advantage of it.” The Tigers may not have that BENCH, see page 11
J.J. ALCANTARA / The Daily Reveille
LSU sophomore infielder Grant Dozar works on fielding bunts and line drives during practice Tuesday at Alex Box Stadium. Dozar is practicing at three positions.
PAGE 8
THE DAILY REVEILLE
FOOTBALL
LSU shifts focus to new recruits Seven are verbally committed to LSU By Mark Clements Sports Contributor
National Signing Day has come and gone with high school recruits across the country deciding where they want to play college football. LSU finished the 2010 recruiting season strong, snagging 29 signees and ending with another top-10 class. Now the focus shifts to the 2011 recruiting season. The state of Louisiana seems to be overflowing with talent, and LSU is already reaping the benefits. The Tigers have already received seven verbal commitments for next yearÕ s class, all of which reside in Louisiana. Rivals.com recruiting analyst Mike Scarborough said this class is oozing with talent and full of potential. Ò I think of the seven, there are probably four or five of them that are Rivals 100 type of guys,” Scarborough said. Scarborough said he sees potential for two or three of LSUÕ s commits to end with five-star rankings. Ò WeÕ ll see what the guys at Rivals decide to do,” Scarborough said. Ò But if I was in the room and helping decide, I would certainly have LaÕ El Collins, Kenny Hilliard and Anthony Johnson in the talk.” LaÕ El Collins is a 6-foot-5inch, 285-pound offensive tackle from Baton Rouge who committed to LSU back in September. The Redemptorist High School star has already been selected to play in the Army All-American Bowl and is viewed as one of the top recruits in the entire 2011 class. Collins chose LSU over a slew of offers, including Southeastern Conference schools Florida and Tennessee. Running back Kenny Hilliard of Patterson, La., is one of the biggest names in recruiting this season. Football runs deep in KennyÕ s blood, as he is the nephew of an LSU football legend, Dalton Hilliard, and cousin of former NFL wide receiver Ike Hilliard. Kenny Hilliard, who committed to LSU in December, was also one of three running backs selected early to play in the All-American Bowl. He turned down offers from Alabama, Tennessee, Miami, Minnesota, Texas A&M, Notre Dame and Tulsa in favor of LSU. New Orleans native Anthony Johnson, the final recruit Scarborough thought worthy of five stars, was also one of the first 19 to be invited to play in the All-American Bowl. “Freak” Johnson has definitely earned his nickname and is viewed as possibly the top defensive tackle recruit in the 2011 class. The O. Perry Walker High School standout was formerly committed to Tennessee before current LSU running backs coach Frank Wilson arrived in Baton Rouge. Wilson was the chief recruiter at Tennessee and had taken the lead role in recruiting Johnson. When
Wilson made the coaching change, Johnson reconsidered his commitment. Johnson switched his verbal commitment to LSU in December, showing the impact of LSUÕ s new recruiting coordinators. Ò Frank Wilson has had a big impact since he’s arrived at LSU,” Scarborough said. “That’s why theyÕ ve got a lot of these guys committed right now.” Looking ahead at positions LSU needs to fill with the 2011 class, Scarborough said one of the bigger concerns may be at quarterback. LSU picked up one quarterback commitment in the 2010 class with Zach Lee, a native of McKinney, Texas. Lee, a two-sport athlete who also pitches for his high school baseball team, is still a question mark for LSU, as he may enter the Major League Baseball draft this summer. Ò Depending on what Zach Lee does, and how high he gets drafted,
2011 Recuiting Commits: • La’El Collins, offensive tackle • Jeremy Hill, running back • Kenny Hilliard, running back • Anthony Johnson, defensive tackle • Jarvis Landry, wide receiver • Terrance Magee, wide receiver • Corey White, offensive lineman
and if he goes to pro baseball, that could be a real big need position,” Scarborough said. Ò If he goes, you need to sign two quarterbacks.” Scarborough also said LSU needs to get commitments from big name wide receivers, a marquee linebacker and some stout defensive backs, but it all comes down to rebuilding the offensive and defensive line depth. Contact Mark Clements at mclements@lsureveille.com
WEdnEsdAy, fEbruAry 10, 2010
WEdnEsdAy, fEbruAry 10, 2010
THE DAILY REVEILLE
PAGE 9
SOFTBALL
Infield depth looks promising Tigers aim for high fielding percentage By Jarred LeBlanc
Mellow Mushroom Team Trivia @ 8pm & Karaoke @ 10pm 3-10pm $6 Bud & Bud Lt. Pitchers 3pm-till $10 Buckets & $2 Shots
Sports Contributor
Like a well-oiled machine, the infield of the No. 18 LSU softball team is working in unison to maintain the core of one of the best defenses in the Southeastern Conference. The 2009 squad recorded a .962 fielding percentage, only committing 57 errors in the 53-game season. “We have a big goal on having the highest fielding percentage in the SEC,” said LSU assistant coach Kristen Hobbs. “We think that’s attainable with limiting our errors, making solid throws in practice and practicing the way we want to play.” LSU opens the season on the road at the Texas Invitational in Austin, Texas, on Feb. 12 in a doubleheader against No. 19 North Carolina and No. 21 DePaul. The Tigers, who finished second in the SEC West last season, have been picked by the SEC coaches to finish second in the SEC West again behind No. 2 Alabama. Anchoring the corners of the infield are junior third baseman Jessica Mouse and sophomore first baseman Anissa Young. “Anissa and Mouse are a big part of our team — Anissa with her bat and Mouse with her defense,” said sophomore catcher Morgan Russell. Mouse was named this season’s team captain after leading the infield throughout the 2009 season. Mouse led the starters last season in fielding percentage (.991) and had the fewest strikeouts among the starting nine (15). Young was second on the team in RBI (36), but unfortunately felt the opposing pitchers’ frustrations more than anyone and was hit by a pitch a team-leading 11 times last season. The infield hosts the team’s two new transfers, junior infielder Cassie Trosclair from Auburn and sophomore shortstop Heidi Pizer from Louisiana-Lafayette. Because of SEC transfer regulations, Trosclair will not be able to play for the Tigers during the 2010 season. Beginning in the 2011 season, she will have two years of eligibility remaining. Pizer, on the other hand, will be able to play for the Tigers and is expected to appear in the infield rotation. “Heidi Pizer has so much range,” Young said. “Her legs are so long, so she gets at everything.” Sophomore infielder Juliana Santos shined at shortstop during her freshman campaign. The Newman, Calif., native was named to the 2009 Louisville Slugger/NFCA All-South Region First Team and was also on the 2009 SEC AllFreshman Team. Santos is expected to play at both shortstop and second base this season. Sophomore second
9-10:30 AM 12-1:30 PM 4:00-5:30 PM 8:00-9:30PM EMILY SLACK / The Daily Reveille
LSU junior outfielder Ashley Applegate and two batters practice Monday in Tiger Park for the softball season opener Friday against North Carolina.
baseman Courtney Hollier, who made appearances in 37 games last season, has been alternating with Santos throughout the fall at second base. “It’s going to be a good battle to see them fight that one out, because they are both working so hard out on the field,” Young said. Freshman utility player Allison Falcon arguably had the best fall practices on the team, Hobbs said, and is expected to see immediate playing time in the middle of the infield. “She’s got a strong bat, and she’s as smooth as anything in the infield,” Mouse said. Russell and freshman catcher Lauren Houston will rotate behind
the plate throughout the season. Russell started 43 games in the Tigers’ 2009 campaign. Sophomore first baseman Lauren Capello and junior utility player Tiffany Shaw round out the infield. “Defensively, we are extremely solid,” said coach Yvette Girouard. “We have some interchangeable parts, which is good. We have some quality depth in the infield.”
Contact Jarred LeBlanc at jleblanc@lsureveille.com
Read about the softball team’s outfield on page 10.
Julie & Julia Without a Paddle: Nature’s Calling The Hurt Locker A Perfect Getaway
PAGE 10
THE DAILY REVEILLE
WEdnEsdAy, fEbruAry 10, 2010
SOFTBALL
Seniors Langoni, Shortridge, Mitchell set for outfield Loss of Jackson doesn’t affect team By Rowan Kavner Sports Contributor
Senior leadership. ItÕ s a phrase thatÕ s thrown around like beads during Mardi Gras. Teams loaded with seniors think they have it. But the LSU softball team believes leadership is about quality, not quantity. Two of the three senior Tigers, Kirsten Shortridge and Rachel Mitchell, patrol the outfield. Shortridge, a pitcher the majority of her career, played outfield last season when the team needed it. She was ranked in the Southeastern ConferenceÕ s top seven in hits (80), batting average (.426), multi-hit games (26) and stolen bases (26). The numbers are staggering considering last season was her first in center field. Ò Luckily, with great coaching it wasnÕ t as tough a transition to outfield,” Shortridge said. “Other than that, you just catch a ball. IÕ ve been catching a ball my whole life.Ó Shortridge will start in center field again this season, joined by Mitchell, who led the team with 38 RBIs last season, in right field and sophomore Ashley Langoni in left
EMILY SLACK / The Daily Reveille
The LSU softball team gathers at practice Monday in Tiger Park to prepare for the season opener Friday against North Carolina.
field. Mitchell and Shortridge are constants from last season, while Langoni was used more as a utility player last season when she saw action at second base, third base, right field, left field and designated player. LSU associate head coach James DeFeo, who coaches the outfielders, said Langoni will be a strong addition to the outfield. Ò WeÕ re really excited to have Lang in left,Ó DeFeo said. Ò SheÕ s
coming off a huge regional tournament for us last year.Ó Langoni had two monster games against then-No. 9 Arizona State at the NCAA regionals last season. She had a grand slam in the TigersÕ 10-2 win against the Sun Devils on May 16 and belted two home runs in the TigersÕ 6-4 loss on May 17. Shortridge said the outfield is solid and has the speed and range to get to almost any ball.
Ò WeÕ re very quick,Ó Shortridge said. Ò Adding Langoni out there gives us a lot of depth. SheÕ s very aggressive and competitive.Ó DeFeo said Mitchell and junior Ashley Applegate will rotate in right field. Mitchell will see the majority of the action, but when Shortridge pitches, Mitchell will move to center field and Applegate will take Mitchell’s spot in right field. Ò Having Mitch in center, weÕ re not going to skip a beat,Ó DeFeo
said. Ò Of course with [Applegate] out in right, sheÕ s played there before. WeÕ ve got no problems with those interchangeable parts.Ó DeFeo said Langoni has stayed healthy and Shortridge is near perfect after persevering through a nagging arm injury last season. Ò The only thing weÕ ve got is Mitchell and Applegate battling some back issues,Ó DeFeo said. Ò So thatÕ s why platooning them in right is going to be a good thing. But I think theyÕ ll be good to go for pretty much the whole season.Ó LSU head coach Yvette Girouard said the loss of outfielder Jazz Jackson wonÕ t affect the team. Ò I donÕ t think itÕ s going to hurt us a bit,Ó Girouard said. Ò The outfield has clicked better this year than probably since the 2004 team. There is a real chemistry out there.Ó Langoni said the seniors are unmeasurably valuable to the teamÕ s future success. Ò TheyÕ re our biggest leaders on the team,Ó Langoni said. Ò TheyÕ re our top players, and without them I donÕ t think we could do it.Ó Contact Rowan Kavner at rkavner@lsureveille.com
Read about the softball team’s infield on page 9.
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
Cornhuskers remain undefeated, move to No. 3 Nebraska’s highest ranking since 1997 By Doug Feinberg The Associated Press
Nebraska keeps winning and climbing up the Top 25. The unbeaten Cornhuskers (21-0) moved past Notre Dame to No. 3 on Monday in The Associated Press womenÕ s basketball poll. Nebraska trailed the Irish in the poll by 27 points last week, but were buoyed by victories over thenNo. 10 Oklahoma State and 12thranked Texas A&M to move two points in front. Ò They are still undefeated and are beating some pretty good teams,Ó said voter Paul Zeise of the Pittsburgh Post Gazette, who had Nebraska No. 2 on his ballot this week. Ò TheyÕ ve played a lot of teams that have been ranked in the top 10 and beat them all. They havenÕ t really had a close game.Ó Sounds like a familiar scenario to UConn, which remained No. 1 for a record 38th straight week. The Huskies (23-0) routed West Virginia and Louisville this week. Connecticut has won 62 straight games, all by double digits. Stanford remained second with Notre Dame falling to fourth Ñ despite winning twice this past week — and Tennessee fifth. While there wasnÕ t much surprise at UConnÕ s continued success, the Cornhuskers didnÕ t even
start the season ranked and didnÕ t crack the Top 25 until the fourth week of the season. Before this run, NebraskaÕ s highest ranking had been 12th in 1997. Nebraska, which will visit Kansas on Wednesday and Missouri on Saturday, has won most of its games by double digits with Miami being the only team to come within five points. The Hurricanes knocked off North Carolina this week, dropping
the Tar Heels nine spots to 18th. North Carolina, which also lost to then-No. 15 Florida State, hasnÕ t been this low in the rankings since being No. 19 on Feb. 25, 2002. North Carolina may drop even further next week after getting blown out by No. 8 Duke on Monday night. The Blue Devils fell two spots after losing at Boston College. Xavier and Ohio State moved up to sixth and seventh. Despite a 33-point loss to UConn, West
Virginia moved up to ninth Ñ its best ranking ever. Florida State jumped up five places to 10th. Baylor climbed four spots to No. 11, starting a run of five straight Big 12 teams. The Bears were followed by Oklahoma, Texas A&M, Texas and Oklahoma State. Georgetown moved up two places to 16th. The Hoyas were followed by Kentucky, which is in second in the Southeastern Conference. The Tar Heels were next,
followed by Georgia and Iowa State Ñ the seventh Big 12 team in the poll. Georgia Tech, Gonzaga, LSU, TCU and St. JohnÕ s rounded out the poll. After falling out a week earlier, TCU re-entered the Top 25. Wisconsin-Green Bay was the lone team to exit the poll. Contact The Daily Reveille’s sports staff at sports@lsureveille.com
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2010
THE DAILY REVEILLE ARKANSAS, from page 7
J.J. ALCANTARA / The Daily Reveille
LSU freshman guard Aaron Dotson tries to drive past Kentucky freshman guard John Wall on Saturday during the Tigers’ 81-55 loss Saturday to the Wildcats in the PMAC.
year and obviously some of the problems they had off the floor, but you look at this team now, and they’ve matured and grown up,” Johnson said. “They’re playing together, and they’re playing within themselves.” Arkansas is led by sophomore guard Courtney Fortson, who averages 20 points, six assists and five rebounds per contest. “Courtney is playing very well for us right now and is a big part of our success of late,” said Arkansas coach John Pelphrey in a news release. “He has a knack for scoring and getting fouled, and his hard work practicing his shot in the off season has really paid off.” Fortson missed his team’s first 14 games of the season because of a suspension stemming from a post he made on his Twitter page in February where he made light of an Arkansas student’s rape allegations. Fortson isn’t the only reason
BENCH, from page 7
same luxury this season looking for players to make an impact from the bench, as they have only 16 position players this year, compared to 21 last season. Mainieri said four bench players — junior Kyle Koeneman, sophomore Matt Gaudet, and freshmen Alex Edward and Mason Katz — are one-dimensional guys in terms of being mostly offensive players who don’t play a variety of defensive positions. “We don’t have as many numbers depth-wise, and we don’t have as much versatility depth-wise this season,” Mainieri said. Although Mainieri expects almost all bench players to make an impact at some point in the season, he pointed to sophomore outfielder Johnny Dishon and sophomore infielder Grant Dozar to make the biggest impact. Dishon plays all three outfield positions, while Dozar plays first and second base along with serving as backup catcher. “In high school, I played infield, so playing second and first isn’t too difficult,” Dozar said. “I started catching when I got to LSU and spent most of last season learning the position. I’m getting as much work as possible at each position daily.” Dozar said coming off the bench isn’t easy, but it’s part of being a baseball player. “If you’re in the game from the start, then you know the situations,” Dozar said. “On the bench, you are playing the game mentally, trying to keep your mind sharp. It’s just a matter of getting in there when coach calls your number and taking advantage of it.” Dozar saw action in 27 games last season, including six starts. He hit .265 in 34 at bats with two homers. “Coach is not afraid to give the young guys opportunities,” Dozar said. “Any time you get in, that may be your opportunity to crack that starting lineup. So you have to work like a starter throughout the year.” Despite that lack of depth in some areas, Nola said he won’t
J.J. ALCANTARA / The Daily Reveille
LSU sophomore outfielder Mikie Mahtook hits the ball during practice Tuesday inside the batting cages of Alex Box Stadium.
take his starting role at shortstop for granted this season. “I feel a lot more comfortable at my position this year, but you can’t ever settle in because you
always have people behind you,” Nola said. “I’ve got to earn my job.” Contact Andy Schwehm at aschwehm@lsureveille.com
Arkansas is playing well recently, as four other Razorbacks average double figures in scoring. Sophomore guard Rotnei Clarke averages 16.5 points, 2.5 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game. Though guards are the Razorbacks’ leading scorers, there isn’t a discrepancy in productivity between their frontcourt and backcourt. Freshman forward Marshawn Powell is a player Johnson calls one of the best in the conference — if not the nation — and he averages 15.3 points and 6.9 rebounds per game. His frontcourt mate, senior forward/center Michael Washington, averages 13 points and pulls down six rebounds per game. The Razorbacks’ 2009 season was similar to the one the Tigers are facing this season. They finished with a 14-15 overall record. Johnson said he sees some of his current team members in their opponents for Wednesday night. “Arkansas is a perfect
PAGE 11 example with what they had to go through last year,” Johnson said. “Now, look at what they’re going through. Fortson is making better decisions, and those freshmen are sophomores.” LSU, on the other hand, is playing very poorly statistically. The Tigers rank near the bottom of the SEC in most offensive categories and are a middle-of-thepack team in terms of defense. But hope isn’t lost for the Tigers in Johnson’s eyes. He said he hopes his team can learn a lesson from the New Orleans Saints — a team that was 3-13 just four seasons ago. “There’s no secret to it,” Johnson said. “Guys that are going to stay engaged and stay the course with a good, solid program — it’s going to happen. Whether you’re going to win them all, I don’t know. But the key is to win the ones you’re supposed to win and not lose the ones you should win.” Contact Johanathan Brooks at jbrooks@lsureveille.com
THE DAILY REVEILLE
Opinion
PAGE 12
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Paul Mainieri responds to doppelgänger article Dear [Reveille staff writer] Grace [Montgomery], I wanted to write you a quick letter to let you know that I am completely offended by your ar-
ticle titled, Ò SEPARATED AT BIRTH?Ó in ThursdayÕ s issue of Ò The Daily Reveille.Ó For the life of me, I cannot believe how you were able to see the slightest comparison between John McCain and myself. Although I greatly respect Senator McCain for his services to our country, I strongly believe that I am much better looking than him. Not to mention, I am about 30 years younger than he is and still
in the prime of my strikingly handsome appearance. I would agree with all of the other Doppelgangers you displayed in your article except for John McCain and I, but especially Les Miles and Kurt Russell! Come on...matching up Les Miles with Kurt Russell is truly a slap in the face to Kurt. Although they are closer in age than John McCain and I, Kurt Russell’s good looks run circles around Ò The Hat.Ó Personally, I feel you could
have chosen a much better Doppelganger to pair me up with in your article. IÕ m sure that if you would have taken a poll from the wonderful people of the LSU campus, about 90 percent of the student and faculty would have said that I look exactly like the actor, Brad Pitt, when he starred in the movie, Ò Troy.Ó If you watch the movie closely, you will see that Brad and I have the same physique as well as an eerily similar facial features
WEdnEsdAy, fEbruAry 10, 2010 which would have made for a perfect Doppelganger of us. Some have even used the phrase Ò spitting imageÓ when comparing Brad and myself. Grace, of course this letter is all in good fun. Just so you know, I am not offended at all by the article or photos. I actually think the entire article is pretty humorous. Paul D. Mainieri LSU Head Baseball Coach
OUR VIEW
Mainieri must face truth in resemblance to John McCain
In last ThursdayÕ s edition of the Daily Reveille, staff writer Grace Montgomery wrote an article comparing various high-profile campus figures to various celebrity look-alikes. The piece was a tribute to Ò DoppelgŠ nger Week,Ó during which students replaced their profile pictures with pictures of similar-looking celebrities.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
LSU vegeterian options humane, commendable As a staff member and a vegan, I was encouraged to see the article on the increase in vegetarian options at the dining halls. This change is definitely a step in the right direction. Animals raised for food suffer from painful “modifications” such as de-beaking and castration with no anesthetic or veterinary care. They live in dirty, crowded pens for their entire lives, which are dramatically shorter than they would be naturally. They are then roughly handled and shipped to slaughter, where they often remain conscious while being dismembered. By choosing a vegetarian diet, each person can save up to 100 animals’ lives every year, and it is refreshing to see LSU recognize the needs of its vegetarian students. I would like to suggest that the dining hall also cater to a
LSU Head Baseball Coach Paul Mainieri light-heartedly takes issue with the article, which compares him to Sen. John McCain (RArizona). In a letter addressed to Montgomery, which is published above, Mainieri writes, “I strongly believe that I am much better looking than him.Ó While Coach Mainieri is certainly entitled to his opinions, we respectfully disagree. We here at The Daily Reveille believe Sen. McCain is a handsome man Ñ isnÕ t that a requirement for
vegan diet, which avoids milk and egg products as well as meat. Some of the most horrific abuses in the farming world affect milking cows and egg-laying hens. Conditions are cramped, and animals often live in or near fetid pools of their own waste. Many animals die from untreated injuries. It is more cost effective for the farmer to let some animals die than to provide proper care for all of them. Numerous undercover investigations by groups like Mercy for Animals and PETA have shown farm workers abusing and beating animals. I encourage everyone to investigate the value of a vegan diet. In addition to helping animals, you can improve your health and help the environment. You can go to Web sites like TryVeg.com or GoVeg.com to learn more.
GERRI SAX ELLEN ZIELINSKI MATTHEW ALBRIGHT
Editor Managing Editor, Content Managing Editor, External Media Managing Editor, Production Opinion Editor
more fashionable — especially in terms of hats Ñ Kurt Russel is one handsome devil. (Let us know if you think otherwise, Les.) Good call Coach McCain.
AP PHOTO
on
that
one,
Contact the Editorial Board at editor@lsureveille.com
BEST AND WITTIEST
Contact The Daily Reveille’s opinion staff at opinion@lsureveille.com
Editorial Board JERIT ROSER
this assertion, but he may need to visit the optometrist. But weÕ re certainly not going to leave it up to Facebook to determine if MainieriÕ s claim is true. Log on to lsureveille.com and vote in our online poll — Does Coach Mainieri more closely resemble John McCain, Tony Sirico, or Brad Pitt? One thing we can agree with Mainieri on Ñ our comparison of LSU Football coach Les Miles to Kurt Russell may have been a little ambitious. While Miles is obviously
Erin Register financial analyst Office of the Vice Chancellor
THE DAILY REVEILLE NICHOLAS PERSAC
presidential candidates? Ñ and we thought Coach Mainieri would be pleased to be compared to such a striking figure. AP PHOTO We also challenge his claim that “about 90 percent of the students and faculty would have said that I look exactly like the actor Brad Pitt, when he starred in the movie Ô Troy.Õ Ó We donÕ t know where he gets
catoon courtesy of KING FEATURES SYNDICATE
EdITOrIAL POLICIEs & PrOCEdurEs
QuOTE Of THE dAy
The Daily Reveille (USPS 145-800) is written, edited and produced solely by students of Louisiana State University. The Daily Reveille is an independent entity within the Manship School of Mass Communication. Signed opinions are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of the editor, paper or University. Letters submitted for publication should be sent via e-mail to opinion@lsureveille.com or delivered to B-26 Hodges Hall. They must be 400 words or less. Letters must have a contact phone number so the opinion editor can verify the author. The phone number won’t be printed. The Daily Reveille reserves the right to edit letters and guest columns for space consideration without changing the original intent. The Daily Reveille also reserves the right to reject any letter without notification of the author. Writers must include their full names and phone numbers. The Daily Reveille’s editor-in-chief, hired every semester by the Louisiana State University Media Board, has final authority on all editorial decisions.
Ò What I look forward to is c ontinued i mmaturity followed by death.Ó Dave Barry American humorist, author July 3, 1947 — present
THE DAILY REVEILLE
Wednesday, february 10, 2010
BURNS AFTER READING
Opinion
PaGe 13
Valentine’s Day is coming, run for your lives, bros
ItÕ s coming. Spring has arrived. Love is in the air. ValentineÕ s Day is right around the corner. Looking around campus this week and seeing all the smiling couples, you might feel a bit down in the dumps. I know the feeling. And itÕ s completely understandable. But donÕ t take the bait. ValentineÕ s Day shouldnÕ t drag your spirits down. It should be celebrated as your personal independence day. Sure, your friends who are in relationships might appear happy. But that emotional high only lasts one day. The other 364 days, theyÕ re stuck in shackles, and you get to roam the campus as a free man. So why are college relationships such an enormous mistake? Glad you asked, bro. There are four fundamental reasons college relationships are tragic mistakes, according to world-renowned philander Barney Stinson.
First, a relationship is a terrible, terrible financial investment. At a stage in life where time is money, having a college relationship is as economically illogical as distributing used condoms at an abstinence convention. From a logistical standpoint, thereÕ s no such thing as a safe relationship. The battlefield of love is strewn with financial landmines. Since the chances of landing Ò the oneÓ are astronomically low, it all comes down to blind luck. But one thing is certain: If you throw all your money in too soon, youÕ re bound to bust faster than Sonny Bono on a bunny slope. Second, relationships suck the life out of friendships. From one bro to another, get out while you still can. Trade that dirty old leash in for a popped collar and a drunken guysÕ night on the town. Third, theyÕ re a colossal waste of time and resources. Looking for young love is like going to see an M. Night Shyamalan film. It looks crazy, and
all your friends say it sucks, but you go see it anyway. After wasting a significant portion of your time waiting to see if the story is going anywhere, you find out it was all a dumb hoax and storm from the theater wonScott BurnS dering, Ò Why the hell did I go Columnist see that?Ó So donÕ t get sucked into seeing another dumb movie, bro. Lastly, there are the overwhelming statistics. Sixty percent of the time, college relationships fail every time, according to Madeupstatistics.org. WhatÕ s worse Ñ once youÕ re locked in to a relationship, a peaceful exit is virtually impossible. Tampons can plug up a lot of unexpected breaches. But they canÕ t staunch the blood loss in a dying relationship. Expecting a college relationship will end well if things donÕ t work out is about as lethal as
anticipating that a driver will magically obey the rules of the road. Pointless metaphors aside, whatÕ s the point? You invest all that time and money into someone else, and whatÕ s the payout? A shattered heart, a signature collection of cold showers and a cesspool of wasted memories. Broken hearts might make for great music and entertaining films, but they don’t make for stable psyches and fat savings accounts. So if relationships are so futile, why do so many students insist on boarding the love train, knowing theyÕ re going to crash faster than Heath LedgerÕ s intestines? The answer is simple Ñ because thereÕ s always that unknown Ò X-factor.Ó Every now and then, crazy things happen. A poker player gets dealt a royal flush. A hillbilly strikes black gold. A Hail Mary pass gets caught.
The Saints win the Super Bowl. Not taking a chance on love might be the biggest chance of all. Many times the best decisions in life canÕ t be calculated. Sometimes you have to go out on a limb and take the million-to-one odds. Sometimes Ò you just gotta have faith.Ó Young love might be entirely illogical, but so are many of the best things in life. Who knows? Maybe one day IÕ ll meet my Snooki, and weÕ ll live happily ever after on the fecal-infested waters of the Jersey Shore. Until that day, IÕ ll just have to sit back and play skeptic. Scott Burns is a 20-year-old economics junior from Baton Rouge. Follow him on Twitter @TDR_sburns.
Contact Scott Burns at sburns@lsureveille.com
THE DEVIL’S ADVOCATE
ESP, clairvoyance and miracles real, magic isn’t I have a confession that might shatter my reputation as The Daily ReveilleÕ s token Atheist: I believe in Extra-Sensory Perception. Under certain circumstances, humans can get information through means other than their five senses. For instance, through the power of the ratio of pi, I can successfully predict the diameter of a circle by knowing only the radius. Abracadabra Ñ knowledge without the senses. But thatÕ s not all. With a similar dark art, I can predict the future! NewtonÕ s approximation of the laws of gravity allows me, or anyone else, to predict the path a flying ball will take. With enough experience, even a dog can intuitively grasp a parabola. Clairvoyance is commonplace. As a child, I was told Santa Claus delivers a sleigh of presents throughout the world. When I grew up, I learned there really is a spectacular force delivering goodies worldwide Ñ itÕ s called international trade. Recently, I got 20 fillets of tilapia from Walmart. Instead of the North Pole, they came from China. Instead of milk and cookies, I gave $12. The details are wrong, but the legend is real. As a child, I was told a man in ancient Israel cured diseases by casting out demons. That sounds ridiculous.
Perhaps they were referring to the heroes who distributed the smallpox vaccine? ThatÕ s a miracle we can all celebrate. Professor SnapeÕ s potions are nothing more than a stylistic twist on chemistry. I room with two chemistry majors who would love to analyze Daniel Morgan polyjuice potion. It canÕ t Columnist be found, so instead theyÕ re working on nanotechnology that could help cure cancer. ItÕ s not supernatural, but it is super. Some might say IÕ m being dishonest. I might be strictly following some definitions of ESP, clairvoyance and miracles, but usually these words have different meanings. And theyÕ re right. As far as I can tell, the defining difference between the mathematicianÕ s ESP and the Ò realÓ ESP is the Ò realÓ ESP is impossible. I can conceive of worlds with witches, goblins and minotaurs, but I canÕ t imagine a world with magic. Even if Harry Potter was real, we could still place the Ò magicÓ wands under a microscope and figure out how they worked. The only difference between electromagnetism and Ò magicÓ spells is one actually moves things around. The only difference between
oxytocin and Ò potionsÓ is that one, by definition, is only found in fantasy. Believers in the supernatural donÕ t have a monopoly on the spectacular, for the natural contains the Grand Canyon. Believers in the supernatural believe in things outside the domain of reason. We live in a universe that can be understood Ñ and conquered. What an unending source of beauty Ñ and power. The next time someone describes themselves as Ò spiritual, but not religious,Ó ask them what the word Ò spiritualÓ means. Their answer probably wonÕ t make a lick of sense. I have a sneaking suspicion the word Ò spiritualÓ means Ò emotions I donÕ t want to think about.Ó Emotions outside the realm of reason and the jurisdiction of curious questioning. Ò IÕ m not religious, but I do have feelings IÕ m afraid to investigate.Ó ThatÕ s not to say all knowledge is attainable. Data is expensive to gather Ñ and when processed has diminishing returns. There will always be logistical problems that appear insurmountable. Particle physicists will always be struggling to catch the next smallest particle. Economists will never be able to run the Ò Great DepressionÓ experiment again. Psychologists will never study someone who is completely self-aware. These are the frontiers to which the curious are called.
Pretending like the man in the funny hat has knowledge about the unknowable doesnÕ t help.
Rouge. Follow him on Twitter @TDR_dmorgan.
Daniel Morgan is a 21-year-old economics senior from Baton
Contact Daniel Morgan at dmorgan@lsureveille.com
TOON-A-HOLIC
CAMERON COODY / The Daily Reveille
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WEdnEsdAy, fEbruAry 10, 2010 MASKS, from page 1
Wilson also joined the students in creating a mask, using pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. She said the mask was meant to be fun, but also has a deeper meaning to her. Ò I consider many aspects of my life as being many different things that interconnect Ñ some of which you let your students know about, some of which are private and secret,Ó Wilson said. Wilson taught a lesson on masks from different cultures, highlighting the characteristics of masking in various societies.
PARADE, from page 1
the parade began. Ò We can all embrace this team because they give us hope,Ó Hebert said. One of the paradeÕ s highlights occurred when Saints quarterback and Super Bowl XLIV MVP Drew Brees received a toast from New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin and U.S. Sen. David Vitter (R-La.). Ò Move over Peyton Manning, because New Orleans has a new
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Ò We talked about how, culturally, all the way back from cavemen on, almost every society has had some masking traditions,Ó Wilson said. Ò Whether it served supernatural, spiritual or fantasy purposes, or, like Mardi Gras masks, to hide and conceal, this cultural thing has been going on.Ó Mardi Gras masks have morphed differently in various communities, said Maida Owens, director of the Louisiana Folklife Program, part of the Louisiana Division of the Arts. Ò ThereÕ s a reason why the towns have different types of Mardi
Gras than the smaller, rural communities,Ó Owens said. Ò Mardi Gras will change and shift according to the values and priorities [of each community].Ó In some of the more traditional Mardi Gras celebrations, the maskÕ s function is the most important aspect. Ò The mask is integral to Mardi Gras, especially the Cajun Creole Mardi Gras, where youÕ re disguising your identity so you can approach your neighbor, and they donÕ t know who you are,Ó Owens said. Masks were originally made with whatever materials were
available, said Carolyn Ware, associate English professor who studies folklore. Ò [Masks] were made and decorated with things people had easily available, like wire screen, table cloths, chicken feathers and corn cobs,Ó Ware said. Though masks differ from community to community, Ware said the most important aspect of them is the ability to change oneÕ s identity. Ò They also allow us to play with ordinary rules of life and turn things upside down,Ó Ware said. Ò If youÕ re a man, your mask makes you a woman, animal or part of a
different ethnic group.Ó Ware said communities make themselves unique by carrying out the same type of costume in different ways. Ò In Cajun Mardi Gras, when men dress as women, they do it in a way that itÕ s obvious theyÕ re big, burly men, with their hairy legs sticking out of a dress,Ó Ware said. Ò In New Orleans, theyÕ re much more convincing [as women].Ó
favorite son,Ó Vitter said. A festive Brees then expressed his gratitude for the city of New Orleans. Ò We love our city, and we love our championship,Ó Brees said. Daniel Landry, a 30-year-old resident of New Orleans and lifelong Saints fan, said he is overjoyed the city hosted a victory parade in honor of the Saints. Ò If youÕ re really a fan, you feel depressed when you think about what this team has gone through
over the years,Ó Landry said. Ò But this is crazy Ñ a lot of spirit, happiness and community support.Ó Rachel Reddit, a 29-year-old New Orleanian, said the importance of the SaintsÕ success stretches far beyond the gridiron. Ò It was the most incredible moment of my life,Ó Reddit said. Ò IÕ ve never been so happy. During [Hurricane] Katrina, the city was united, but united around something sad. This means so much more than football for so many people.Ó Reddit, who works at New
Orleans ChildrenÕ s Hospital, said the Saints have given hope to many children she sees on a daily basis. She said she has seen countless people who have found strength in the stories of players like Brees, who signed with the Saints during the 2006 offseason following reconstructive surgery on his throwing shoulder. The surgery made many franchises in the NFL unwilling to take a chance on Brees. Ò His story has given so much inspiration to so many children,Ó Reddit said. Ò WeÕ re so proud of this team, and not just because of
how good they play football.Ó The history of the Saints franchise has had its fair share of futility since the organizationÕ s inception in 1967. The team struggled to gain respect in the NFL as the Saints did not record their first playoff victory until 2000. The SaintsÕ three victories in the 2009 postseason eclipsed the franchise total of two playoff wins prior to this yearÕ s playoffs.
Contact Ryan Buxton at rbuxton@lsureveille.com
Contact Cory Boudreaux at cboudreaux@lsureveille.com
Wednesday, february 10, 2010
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