The Daily Reveille - March 19, 2012

Money: Spending on pet care continues to increase, p. 3

Softball: Juliana Santos copes with Crohn’s disease, p. 11

Reveille The Daily

www.lsureveille.com

Women’s Basketball: Lady Tigers on to next round of tourney after 64-56 win, p. 9 Monday, March 19, 2012 • Volume 116, Issue 112

Santorum attends LSU baseball game Supporters greet, cheer for candidate

Catherine Threlkeld Copy Editor

LSU baseball’s winning record wasn’t the only thing attracting Louisianians to Alex Box Stadium on Sunday.

Republican presidential candidate Rick Santorum made a campaign stop at the Tigers’ game against Mississippi St. to meet his supporters and baseball fans just less than a week before

Louisiana’s presidential primary, scheduled for March 24.

About 20 people with Santorum signs and stickers greeted the candidate as his motorcade arrived. He signed autographs and made his way to a suite just left of the press box, where he chatted with former LSU athletic director and baseball coach Skip Bertman during the game.

Staff Writer

Most recent Louisiana primary poll results Romney Gingrich Paul

5.63%

Other

1.94%

Undecided

25.44%

Source: WWL-TV poll

20.97% 19.81%

CATHERINE THRELKELD / The Daily Reveille

26.21% graphic by KIRSTEN ROMAGUERA / The Daily Reveille

LAGOP announces caucus locations

Kate Mabry

SANTORUM, see page 8

Santorum

ELECTION

[Top] Republican presidential candidate Rick Santorum greets supporters Sunday outside of Alex Box Stadium.

[Bottom] Santorum keeps his eyes on the game.

Once a winner emerges in Louisiana’s presidential primary on Saturday, the state’s next step is to select the delegates to support the victorious candidate.

Party leaders will come together at caucuses throughout the state in late April to decide the delegates that will eventually represent Louisiana at the GOP’s national convention.

From 8:30 a.m. until noon April 28, Republican voters who registered prior to Dec. 15 can participate in one of the 30 district caucuses across the state.

The site for East Baton Rouge Parish residents who live south of Florida Boulevard will be the Jefferson Baptist Church on Jefferson Highway, while those who live CAUCUS, see page 8

CAMPUS

Finance junior Elizabeth Connor crowned Miss LSU 2012

Delta Zeta sorority hosts 13th annual event Emily Herrington Staff Writer

Sparkling sequins dominated the stage of the Union Theater on Sunday night as 21 University ladies put their best stilettoed foot forward in hopes of being crowned Miss LSU-USA 2012.

Audience members followed suit, dressing their best to fill the theatre and watch the show.

But in the end, only finance junior Elizabeth Connor could claim the crown.

Connor won after accumulating the highest scores in three categories — swimsuit, evening gown and interview.

The show began with a welcoming word from Jennifer Hale, Delta Zeta alumna and

WVUE sportscaster, who said she was “so impressed by the amazing contestants.”

This year is the 13th anniversary of the Miss LSU-USA pageant, a philanthropic event hosted by the Delta Zeta sorority.

The sorority raises about $40,000 each year through the pageant, which goes toward aiding local and national charities including the Baton Rouge Speech and Hearing Foundation and the Painted Turtle Camp, according to a news release.

The dark curtain lifted to unveil the competing beauties, who performed a choreographed number to a mash-up of “Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend” and “Material Girl” while donning short, black, sparkling dresses and heels.

Mid-routine, 2011 Miss LSU-USA and civil engineering junior Christina Famularo took the BENJAMIN OLIVER HICKS / The Daily Reveille center stage in her diamond crown and glittering Finance junior Elizabeth Connor reacts to winning [left] and adjusts the crown atop her hot pink gown. head [right] at the Miss LSU pageant Sunday in the Union Theater. Check out a photo

MISS LSU, see page 7 gallery and video of the event at lsureveille.com/multimedia.

The Daily Reveille

Nation & World

page 2

INTERNATIONAL

Monday, March 19, 2012

NATIONAL

STATE/LOCAL

Former Mr. Universe turns 100 in India, reveals key to longevity

Occupy protest anniversary ends with police sweep in Zuccotti Park

Lil Wayne told to cut grass at his 10,000-square-foot Kenner mansion

KOLKATA, India (AP) — A former Mr. Universe, who turned 100 said Sunday that happiness and a life without tensions are the key to his longevity.

Manohar Aich, who is 4 foot 11 inches (150 centimeters) tall, overcame many hurdles, including poverty and a stint in prison, to achieve body-building glory.

His children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren gathered the day after his birthday in the eastern city of Kolkata to celebrate.

NEW YORK (AP) — Dozens of police officers cleared the park where the Occupy movement was born six months ago and made several arrests after hundreds of protesters returned in an anniversary observance and defiantly resisted calls to clear out.

Some demonstrators locked arms and sat down in the middle of Zuccotti Park near Wall Street after police announced on a bullhorn at around 11:30 p.m. Saturday that the park was closed. Officers then poured into the park, forcing most of the crowd out.

KENNER (AP) — Lil Wayne has been told to cut his grass.

The Times-Picayune reports the rapper was cited for high grass and weeds at his 10,000-squarefoot mansion in Kenner’s gated Place Pontchartrain subdivision.

The Code Enforcement Department issued the ticket to Dwayne Carter, the New Orleans-born singer’s given name, sometime between Feb. 26 and March 2, according to a list released by the city.

The home is on sale for $1.7 million. Listed as a “celebrity” mansion, the house has five bedrooms, five bathrooms, two half baths and a “beautiful, spacious open floor plan.”

North Korea vows to go ahead with rocket launch despite criticism PYONGYANG, North Korea (AP) — North Korea vowed Sunday to go ahead with plans to launch a long-range rocket, rejecting criticism in the West that it would scuttle recent diplomacy.

North Korea said Friday that it would fire an observation satellite into space on a new rocket as part of celebrations next month of the 100th anniversary of late President Kim Il Sung’s birth.

The announcement came about two weeks after the North agreed to suspend long-range missile tests.

BIKAS DAS / The Associated Press

Indian body builder and former Mr. Universe Manohar Aich flexes his muscles March 16, the day before his 100th birthday.

Workers discover 1-ton WWII-era German bomb near Marseille port MARSEILLE, France (AP) — Officials in Marseille are evacuating an area around the French Mediterranean city’s port so they can remove a 1-ton German bomb that dates to World War II. Around 1,000 people have been asked to clear out Sunday. Boat traffic has been halted and access to several coastal roads blocked. The bomb will be taken to a military base to be detonated.

It was discovered a week ago by construction workers who accidentally pierced the explosive with their back hoe.

The government says the ignition system no longer works.

MONDAY’S SPECIALTY SHOWS

Police chief says parents need to watch teens after several shootings INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Unsupervised teenagers with nothing to do and easy access to guns are a recipe for trouble, experts said Sunday after a late-night shooting that wounded five youths in downtown Indianapolis.

Indianapolis Police Chief Paul Ciesielski said he has had more officers downtown since three shootings injured 10 young people during the Indiana Black Expo in summer 2010. A community task force found teenagers were being dropped off in the area and left unattended.

Jazz pianist Ronnie Kole to perform at Nicholls State University festival THIBODAUX (AP) — Jazz pianist Ronnie Kole will perform in a free concert on March 24 at Nicholls State University.

The 7:30 p.m. performance at the Talbot Theater is part of the 14th annual Jubilee: A Festival of the Arts and Humanities, held each spring at Nicholls.

Kole honed his act with trumpeter Al Hirt and later opened his own club on Bourbon Street.

PHOTO OF THE DAY

9PM-11PM Purple with Ben Curtis and Breezy T. (soul and R+B) 11PM-1AM Underground Sounds With DJ Jewels (Underground hip hop)

Today on lsureveille.com Learn about job offers, moving and more in “The Full Monty” on the LMFAO entertainment blog.

Get the latest recap of the NCAA tournament games and predictions on the Tiger Feed sports blog.

“Figure It Out” is returning to Nickelodeon. Read about it in “Remember When” on the LMFAO entertainment blog.

Watch a video of jazz pianist Ellis Marsalis’ concert on lsureveille.com/multimedia.

Get the latest news by downloading the LSU Reveille app in the iTunes Store and Android Market facebook.com/ thedailyreveille

@lsureveille, @TDR_sports

Weather TODAY Mostly Cloudy

82 68 TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

83 68

70 53

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

78 54

81 56

BRIANNA PACIORKA / The Daily Reveille

San Diego State University’s Aztec Warrior mascot pumps up the crowd March 18 during the LSU-SDSU NCAA tournament game at the PMAC.

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) 578-4811 or email editor@lsureveille.com.

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Monday, March 19, 2012

BATON ROUGE COMMUNITY

The Daily Reveille

page 3

Americans spend nearly $51 billion on pets in 2011

Emily Herrington Staff Writer

America’s pets are more pampered now than ever before.

Spending on pets reached an all-time high in 2011, with owners shelling out $50.96 billion on their pets, according to a report released March 1 by the American Pet Products Association.

APPA predicts the trend will continue through this year as pet owners will spend an estimated $52 billion on their pets, marking a 3.8 percent increase.

The report showed the largest increase in spending was a 7.9 percent jump in pet services, which includes grooming, boarding, pet hotels, pet sitting and day care.

Local pet store owners say they have observed similar trends.

Mary Cangelosi, owner of Puppies for You on Coursey Boulevard, said she’s seen a definite increase in business in the past year.

Cangelosi said she’s mainly seen customers buying better, more expensive dog food. She attributes the growth in business to an improving economy and the desire for companionship and entertainment that pets provide.

Perry Greco, manager of Greco Pet Supplies on Greenwell Springs Road, said 2011 was a “touch-and-go” year for business, but said 2012 looks promising.

He said his business has seen about a 10-percent increase within the past two or three months, with dog food being the best-selling item.

Greco said he attributes the increase in spending to pet owners being more informed about their animals.

“People are more educated now about what their dog needs and what’s in dog food, so they’re stepping up to more premium foods with more costly and natural ingredients,” Greco said.

“Now people know what’s good and what’s bad for their pets.”

Al Husser, owner of Pet Planet USA in Gonzales, said he didn’t see an increase in sales in the past year. His business has been steady for about six years.

Husser said he believes the spike in spending is because of innovations like food and toy testing that help owners take better care of their pets to help them live longer.

History freshman Cora McGehee admittedly spoils her cat, Jasmine. She said she spends about $30 to $40 a month on food, litter and toys for her feline.

But besides the bare necessities, she buys special cat treats, toys and outfits for Jasmine.

“I got her from the pound when she was about a year old, and I just think she deserves it,” McGehee said.

Jessica Card, director of Yelp!BR, said she recommends adopting animals instead of buying them. She said adoption will help lead to Yelp!BR’s mission of making Baton Rouge a no-kill community.

photo illustration by CONNOR TARTER / The Daily Reveille

A teacup Yorkie is spoiled with toys and luxurious pet housing. Pet store owners observed an all-time high in spending on furry friends in 2011.

“People should support adoption instead of shopping,” Card said.

Card said Yelp!BR charges $100 for dogs, which includes spaying or neutering, microchips and shots.

“We put about $300 to $400 into our dogs,” she said.

Contact Emily Herrington at eherrington@lsureveille.com

TECHNOLOGY

AT&T expands 4G coverage in La. HSPA+ network will also be offered Gordon Brillon Contributing Writer

University students and Baton Rouge residents with AT&T mobile devices will soon be able to reap the rewards of a 4G network.

AT&T will be introducing its 4G network to Baton Rouge, New Orleans and several other metropolitan areas, according to the Gulf States public relations division. The changes will be implemented throughout April, May and early summer.

Baton Rouge, as well as most

of Louisiana, is currently covered

by AT&T’s 3G LTE network, which allows users to download data at speeds up to 100 megabytes per second. The 4G LTE upgrade will increase speeds up to 10 times, according to the AT&T website.

The newest upgrade comes after heavy investment in the Baton Rouge area network. According to Sue Sperry, public relations director for the Gulf states area, AT&T spent more than $250 million on infrastructure improvements between 2009 and 2011.

Sonia Perez, state president of AT&T Louisiana, said in a news release that AT&T is excited to give subscribers an opportunity to use the full potential of the 4G-capable devices.

“AT&T customers in Baton Rouge can look forward to even faster mobile Internet speeds very soon, on our leading lineup of smartphones and devices,” Perez said. “We’re excited to bring Baton Rouge all that 4G LTE has to offer. Our teams will be working hard across the city toward our upcoming launch.”

In addition to expanding 4G LTE coverage, AT&T offers a 4G HSPA+ network for less populous areas. HSPA+ is an alternative technology that offers slower speeds than LTE but allows users to switch seamlessly between the two.

Contact Gordon Brillon at gbrillon@lsureveille.com

Monday: $14.99 All You Can Eat Wings and $3 Specialty Drinks Tuesday: $3 Margaritas and Mexican Beers....Kids Eat Free Wed: $4.50 34oz Mother Plucker Mugs....Live Trivia at 8pm Thursday: $12.99 All You Can Eat Boneless Wings... $4.50 34oz Mother Plucker Mugs and $5.50 Patron Margaritas.

Sunday: $3 Specialty Shots, Specialty Drinks and Margaritas.

Everyday: $4 Goose, Crown, Jack and Patron. $3 Jager.

Did you attend the Living Expo in the Union March 7th?

We want to hear what you thought about it! What was your favorite part about it? Least favorite? Tell us via email: events@lsulegacymag.com Thanks for coming to our event!

DO YOU HAVE AN OCCURRENCE? Call Becky at the Student Media Office 578-6090, 9AM- 5PM or E-mail: oncampus@lsureveille.com

page 4

PHOTO STORY

The Daily Reveille

Monday, March 19, 2012

Baton Rouge turns green for St. Patrick’s Day parade

photos by CATHERINE THRELKELD and XERXES A. WILSON / The Daily Reveille

Baton Rouge residents come out in scores for Saturday’s St. Patrick’s Day parade. The parade traveled on Hundred Oaks Avenue, Eugene Street, Terrace Avenue, Perkins Road and South Acadian Thruway. Also known as “The Wearin’ of the Green Parade,” the annual event marked its 27th year Saturday. Check out more photos at lsureveille.com/multimedia.

ACADEMICS

The Daily Reveille

page 5

LET’S SALSA!

LSU graduate engineering ranks No. 93 Paul Braun Contributing Writer

The University’s post-graduate engineering programs are ranked No. 93 in the nation after three consecutive years of improvement, according to U.S. News & World Report’s “America’s Best Graduate Schools” rankings.

The graduate engineering program as a whole improved from No. 99 in the 2011 rankings to No. 95 for 2012. In this year’s rankings for 2013, the program comes in at No. 93 of 193 ranked institutions.

College of Engineering Dean Richard Koubek said the improvement in both the undergraduate rankings released in the fall and the recently-released graduate program rankings could be attributed to a college-wide focus on three issues, including experience, research initiatives with an impact on the region and providing the college with the right faculty and staff.

“In many cases, people would have been satisfied if we were able to stay the same [in the rankings], given the fiscal straits we have had to deal with,” Koubek said. “That was not the case for the faculty and staff of the College of Engineering. They did not let the financial picture define or limit them.”

The Department of Chemical

Engineering gained two spots Department of Electrical Engiover last year’s ranking, No. 53 neering and Computer Science. out of 125, and now sits at 51 of Koubek said the new colthe 125 institutions, according to laboration between electrical enthe rankings. gineering and computer science The Department of Civil En- will help provide the necessary gineering gained 11 spots, mov- workforce and research initiaing up from No. tives to aid the 65 out of 111, and growing number Engineering graduate is now No. 54 out of film and techprogram rankings by of 106 institunology compations. nies coming to the department The Departstate. ment of Mechani- • Chemical engineering: 51 of 125 With the cal Engineering • Civil engineering: 54 of 106 merger, the Colimproved from • Mechanical engineering: 72 of 109 lege of EngineerNo. 72 out of 123 ing will be able • Environmental health engineering: to No. 72 out of to expand its 109 institutions. 65 of 68 research focus In the cat- • Electrical/electronic/communica- from the state infrastructure and egory of envi- tions Engineering: 89 of 112 Source: U.S. News & World Report energy industry ronmental health to also encompass engineering, the University’s program improved a third cross-disciplinary area of from No. 70 out of 79 to No. 65 research.

Koubek said he felt the imout of 68.

The Department of Electri- provement shown by the College cal and Computer Engineering of Engineering is just one aspect showed the greatest improve- of an overall improvement at the ment in the rankings. It gained 32 university.

“No college is an island indespots, increasing from No. 121 pendent of the rest of the Univerout of 135 to No. 89 out of 112.

The merger between sity,” Koubek said. “The fact that the Department of Electrical the rankings are moving up in enEngineering and the Depart- gineering but also in business and ment of Computer Science will education shows that if you work bolster the College of Engineer- together, it shows the strength of ing’s position in the national the University in unity.” rankings for both undergraduate and graduate programs, Koubek said.

Computer science students will see the most tangible effects of the merger with the Contact Paul Braun at move into Patrick F. Taylor Hall pbraun@lsureveille.com on July 1 and the creation of the

MARIAH POSTLETHWAITE / The Daily Reveille

Participants dance in a zumba session Saturday to open Salsa! night at The Varsity Theatre. Latin music performances followed to continue the night’s festivities.

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The Daily Reveille

page 6

BOARD OF SUPERVISORS

Monday, March 19, 2012

Wells asks not to move funds to other institutions in LSU system

Rachel Warren Staff Writer

The LSU Board of Supervisors may move funds granted to LSU from the Louisiana Board of Regents to other institutions in the system, and Student Government President Cody Wells is worried about how it will affect students.

The Board of Regents, which determines how state funding will be divided among LSU System institutions, plans to give LSU about $7 million less than last year, a decrease of about 4.7 percent, according to new funding distribution estimates released by the Regents.

But the University will still make about $24 million in new self-generated funds from tuition increases and a boost in enrollment, leaving it with a net gain of more than $17 million.

In the past, LSU System President John Lombardi has moved funds from one institution to another to even the amounts, and he said he can’t guarantee it won’t happen again.

Wells pleaded with the board at its Friday meeting to keep the amounts the way they are.

“We’ve worked hard for what we got,” he said. “We should be able to keep what’s ours.”

The Regents’ funding formula is performance-based, which Lombardi said isn’t fair.

“Research is not adequately represented in the formula,” he said. “If they took that into account, the funds would fall differently.”

Wells said he’s unsure what Lombardi will ultimately decide but hopes he chooses to leave the funds alone.

“Lombardi has called the A&M campus greedy in the past,” he said. “But I’m here representing the students. We deserve to get everything we’ve worked for.”

Board member Stephen Perry suggested during the meeting that the board create a working group to meet with the chancellors of the institutions in the system to ensure communication between institutions and the board.

Perry said the group, which will be created by Lombardi and Board Chairman Hank Danos, will discuss capital issues, funding issues and anything else the administrations of the institutions are worried about.

“It’s going to be a good process,” Perry said. “A painful process at times, but a good process, I believe.”

The board unanimously agreed to create the group.

STATE

U.S. Census shows more women than men in La. New information released Thursday

Lauren Duhon Staff Writer

Louisiana residents got a closer look at the demographics that make up the state last week when the Census Bureau released new findings from the 2010 Census.

The new information adds a layer of detail to the population and housing data released by the Census last year, according to Tai Istre, Louisiana state data resource officer.

The analysis of 2010 data quantifies the state’s population by gender, and the findings show females are more plentiful in the Pelican State.

Louisiana’s population, which clocks in at more than 4.5 million, is made up of 2,314,080 women, while men account for 2,219,292 of the state’s residents. That marks approximately 96 men for every 100 women.

The analysis also explores the ages of residents in the state, where the majority of households and families have an average size

of 3 members. The average age of residents is about 36 and the majority of Louisianians are between the ages of 50 to 54.

The state is home to 2,836,192 Caucasian residents, 1,452,396 African-American residents, 70,132 Asian residents, 30,579 American Indian or Alaska native residents and 1,963 native Hawaiian residents. Of these, 192,560 consider their ethnicity Hispanic or Latino.

Out of the 4,533,372 people living in Louisiana, 152,002 are foreign-born. Of the residents born in a different country, 53.7 percent are from Latin America, followed by 31.5 percent from Asia and 9.1 percent from Europe.

In regards to employment status, about 38 percent of Louisiana residents over the age of 16 are not in the labor force, with an unemployment rate of 6.2 percent.

Educational attainment in the state reported 34.4 percent of the population over the age of 25 obtained a high school diploma, with 21.4 percent receiving a bachelor’s degree or higher.

Contact Lauren Duhon at lduhon@lsureveille.com

The board also voted unanimously to pass a resolution to officially oppose the possible merger of LSU Shreveport and Louisiana Tech University.

“We value all entities in the System,” Danos said.

In other business, the board elected member-at-large Bobby Yarborough as chairman-elect for the 2012-2013 academic year.

AUSTIN BENNETT / The Daily Reveille

Contact Rachel Warren at rwarren@lsureveille.com

SG President Cody Wells pleads with the Board of Supervisors in the LSU Systems Building on Friday for funds allocated to the A&M campus to not be moved.

The Daily Reveille

Monday, March 19, 2012

page 7

“A man who stops advertising to save money, is like a man who stops the clock to save time.”

-Henry Ford

We can help. 225-578-6090

photos by BENJAMIN OLIVER HICKS / The Daily Reveille

Mass communication junior Taylor Halsey draws a question for her interview [left], sports administration sophomore Nicole Wall struts in her swimsuit [center] and 2011 winner Christina Famularo waves [right] Sunday during the 2012 Miss LSU-USA pageant.

MISS LSU, from page 1

Famularo joined the dance and kept her cool while the audience cheered wildly for her.

Famularo said her yearlong reign was amazing, and highlights include being presented on the field of Tiger Stadium and earning second runner-up in the Miss Louisiana pageant.

Passing on the crown is a bittersweet experience for her, Famularo told The Daily Reveille.

She said she’ll miss the title and all that comes with it, but she wants to allow someone else to experience what she was able to in 2011.

Next, the contestants paraded down the stairs in the middle of the stage and twirled in bikinis and heels for the swimsuit portion, while Hale announced the women’s height, hair color, eye color and hobbies.

The contestants’ hobbies ranged from shopping to hunting. Soon-to-be winner Connor

listed deep-sea fishing as one of her hobbies and said she catches “anything that’ll bite.”

Eye-catching evening gowns dominated the second category of the pageant. Sports administration sophomore Nicole Wall earned the best gown title for her floorlength, gold-sequined, sleeved dress.

Following the evening gown portion was a hip-hop performance by the LSU Legacy Dancers, who entertained the audience while it patiently waited for an intermission and the one-question interview.

The top 10 contestants were asked questions concerning current University affairs, with a heavy focus on budget cuts.

When Connor was asked what she would say to convince a prospective student to attend the University, she responded by regaling how she developed her love for the school.

“After my first day of class, I called my mom and told her that

picking LSU was the best decision I ever made,” she said.

The University offers Southern hospitality at its finest, she said.

Hale said contestants are judged on their knowledge of topics and their ability to articulate, and not for their politics or particular beliefs.

Education freshman Breanne Dicke and nursing freshman Gabby Ricca attended the pageant to see their sorority’s hard work come to fruition.

The pair said that every freshman class member was required to collect $300 in sponsorship to fund the event.

Dicke and Ricca said they both knew Connor would win because of her articulate answer to her interview question and her unique dress, which was a classic, off-the-shoulder black gown.

Contact Emily Herrington at eherrington@lsureveille.com

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The Daily Reveille

page 8 SANTORUM, from page 1

Santorum seemed to enjoy the experience, taking pictures with children and participating in games on the jumbotron.

Although LSU baseball coach Paul Mainieri was not aware Santorum was there, he said it was great that Santorum attended the game.

“I’m not going to divulge [my political views] to people, but I think it’s neat a presidential candidate thought enough of what we do here to make an appearance,” Mainieri said. “Hopefully our fans welcomed him and were very hospitable to him.”

Santorum won the Alabama, Mississippi and Kansas primaries last week with 34.5, 32.8 and 51.2 percent of the vote, respectively.

According to a WWL-TV poll conducted in early March, Santorum is favored to win the Louisiana primary with 25 percent of the vote.

While in Louisiana on Sunday, he also visited Bossier City, Shreveport and Greenwell Springs.

Republican presidential candidates Newt Gingrich and Mitt Romney are also spending time in Louisiana. Gingrich gave a speech in Covington and visited the Audubon Zoo in New Orleans on Friday.

Romney will attend a fundraiser in Shreveport on March 23, according to The Shreveport Times.

But the spotlight was on Santorum as fans young and old came to Alex Box to catch a glimpse of the former Pennsylvania senator.

Along with Santorum came a cadre of national journalists covering his campaign. Time Magazine’s

CATHERINE THRELKELD / The Daily Reveille

Republican presidential candidate Rick Santorum and former LSU athletic director and baseball coach Skip Bertman chat Sunday outside of Alex Box Stadium.

Alex Altman tweeted his take on Alex Box Stadium during the game.

“LSU’s stadium is nicer than most minor league parks. Santorum watching from a box, wearing Tiger purple,” Altman tweeted.

LSU bat girl Erin Giffin said it was exciting to see Santorum because a “possible future president is in our midst.”

Matthew Bollin, a 17-year-old Catholic High School student, said he wants to show Santorum that the younger population in Louisiana does care about politics.

“It’s never too early to get out here [to show support],” Bollin said.

Dave Persyn, a Baton Rouge resident, said he thinks Santorum came to Alex Box because “he’s looking to meet with the everyday kind of people that come to an LSU baseball game.”

Persyn, who operates a Louisiana Santorum support group on Facebook, said Santorum’s views align with his own as a pro-life Catholic. He said the U.S. Constitution’s protection of “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” guards peoples’ rights to life.

Michael Banham, a Chalmette native, said Louisiana is going to have “a very important role” in the upcoming primary.

“We want to show that Rick has support across the state,” Banham said. “He is going to be the best candidate to run against Obama.”

Sports writer Hunter Paniagua contributed to this report.

Contact Catherine Threlkeld at cthrelkeld@lsureveille.com

w e i V y a w r Fai

Monday, March 19, 2012 CAUCUS, from page 1

north of Florida Boulevard will vote at Kristenwood Catering and Reception Hall on Greenwell Springs Road.

The caucus for West Baton Rouge and Iberville parish residents will be at Reliant Technology in Port Allen.

Following the caucuses, 25 delegates and 12 alternates from each of the 30 districts will be elected to vote at the Republican State Convention on June 2 in Shreveport.

“Delegates are elected at the caucuses and will represent the population of Louisiana at the convention in June,” said Austin Stukins, interior design junior and state grassroots coordinator for Louisiana Team Gingrich 2012. “Whatever campaign that [students] want to stand with, they need to get in touch with the campaigns in their state, reach out to the individuals in charge and ask to get involved.”

At the state convention, delegates and alternates will be selected for the Republican National Convention, slated for Aug. 27 to 30 in Tampa, Fla. Finally, the delegates chosen to participate in the national convention will select the party’s nominees for president and vice president.

Stukins, a delegate candidate, said supporters should get in touch with campaigns to learn what ballot and slated delegates to vote for before the caucus.

Stukins said presidential candidate Newt Gingrich’s supporters are preparing by identifying supporters who want to attend the caucuses

while also searching for delegates who are committed to helping Gingrich.

“We’re trying to consolidate a list of all supporters so we can reach out to them,” he said.

While anyone can attend the caucuses for free, Stukins said supporters who wish to become delegates must pay a $200 qualifying fee.

Jason Doré, executive director of the Republican Party of Louisiana, said those interested in qualifying as a delegate can apply online or in person at the LAGOP’s office between April 10 and 12.

“Becoming a delegate is a great opportunity to get involved and meet other Republican activists across the state,” he said.

Stukins said the majority of voters attend primaries, but they may not be aware of the caucus or the process involved.

“It’s important that voters not only vote on March 24 in the Louisiana presidential preference primary, but also get in touch with the campaign of their choice to find out how best to be involved in the caucus here in Louisiana,” he said.

While the caucus is more than a month away, the Republican Party of Louisiana is preparing for the caucus by getting the word out and bringing publicity to the caucus.

Doré said the party is looking for volunteers interested in getting involved in the caucus and on the election day.

Contact Kate Mabry at kmabry@lsureveille.com

Sports

Monday, March 19, 2012

Still Alive

page 9

Lady Tigers rally late to advance to second round of NCAAs Luke Johnson Sports Writer

Though its season appeared to be in danger for much of the second half, the LSU women’s basketball team turned it on late, beating San Diego State, 64-56, Sunday in the PMAC and advancing to the NCAA Tournament’s second round against Penn State.

Trailing by as much as seven in the second half, it didn’t look like the Lady Tigers were going to play again in March.

“San Diego State did an unbelievable job of coming here and executing their game plan, exploiting us,” said LSU coach Nikki Caldwell. “But I’m very proud of our team for coming out with a ‘W.’” Down 47-39 with just more than 10 minutes remaining in the game and the Lady Tigers reeling, sophomore guard Jeanne Kenney turned to the home crowd and urged them to get on their feet.

The fact that Kenney’s cry was easily discernible can attest to the atmosphere in the PMAC, as the home team was watching San Diego State run away with its season.

The crowd took notice. Almost immediately they burst into what may have been the loudest the PMAC has been this season, and the effect was tangible.

The Lady Tigers went on a 10-0 run after the crowd got in it, retook the lead and it was a different game.

BRIANNA PACIORKA / The Daily Reveille

SAN DIEGO, see page 19

LSU sophomore guard Jeanne Kenney dribbles past a San Diego defender Sunday during the Tigers’ 64-56 win against SDSU in the PMAC.

BASEBALL

Despite finale loss, Tigers take two of three against MSU Nola struggles in first SEC start Hunter Paniagua Sports Writer

CATHERINE THRELKELD / The Daily Reveille

LSU junior first baseman Mason Katz smacks a home run Saturday during the Tigers’ 4-3 win against Mississippi State in Alex Box Stadium.

Things couldn’t go much worse for freshman pitcher Aaron Nola in his first career Southeastern Conference start.

Nola allowed five of the first six Mississippi State batters to reach base — three with doubles — and fell behind early. The Bulldogs scored five runs in the first inning, supplying all the offense they needed to take the series finale, 7-1, at Alex Box Stadium.

After earning one-run

victories in each of the series’ first two contests, Sunday’s game left a sour taste in the mouth of LSU coach Paul Mainieri.

“It was just one of those days,” Mainieri said. “In this league, no wins are guaranteed because you’re going up against a good team every day, and today was Mississippi State’s day.”

The Bulldogs jumped on Nola from the start, as leadoff man Adam Frazier doubled on the game’s first pitch. Nola hit the next batter, and each of the next four batters drove in a run. Mississippi State first baseman Wes Rea drove in another with a double to left-center field to give the Bulldogs a 5-0 lead before LSU even had an at-bat.

“Not every day is your pitcher going to go out and shut out the other team until the seventh inning,” Mainieri said. “When that happens, you’ve got to have some confidence and ability to be able to come from behind. Today was not the day for us to do that.”

Nola mostly settled down after the disastrous first frame. He allowed just two hits in his next five innings of work and struck out four, but surrendered one run on a sacrifice fly in the sixth inning.

“I got in kind of a groove,” Nola said. “I kept the ball down most of the time after the first inning. I had to compete even NOLA, see page 19

The Daily Reveille

page 10

SOFTBALL

Monday, March 19, 2012

Tigers sweep Miss. State in three-game weekend series LSU faces Ga. Tech on Wednesday Albert Burford Sports Contributor

LSU made its ďŹ rst threegame series of Southeastern Conference play count this weekend, earning three wins against SEC West Division rival Mississippi State (17-12, 3-7 SEC).

In Sunday’s contest, the Tigers (19-8, 4-1 SEC) pulled ahead, 1-0, in the second inning on a ďŹ elding error by Mississippi State junior pitcher Stephanie Becker.

LSU junior pitcher Rachele Fico struggled to ďŹ nd a rhythm early in the game, walking three Mississippi State batters in the ďŹ rst inning and tossing 51 pitches through the ďŹ rst two innings alone.

But Fico didn’t concede a run in the game. “[LSU coach Beth] Torina talked me through it and told me what kind of adjustments I needed to make and where I needed to put the ball,� Fico said. “We changed up our game plan a little

BENJAMIN OLIVER HICKS / The Daily Reveille

Junior pitcher Rachele Fico throws a pitch Sunday during the Tigers’ 4-0 victory against Mississippi State at Tiger Park. LSU has won 20 games against the Bulldogs since 2005.

bit and it seemed to work.�

LSU sophomore third baseman Tammy Wray helped Fico keep the shutout with a diving stop on a hit down the third baseline. Wray completed the throw to ďŹ rst base from her knees to get the out. “I can’t tell you how much

momentum it gives our team when one of our players makes such a big play like that,� Fico said. “We all just get hyped up and we’re able to carry that momentum through the rest of the game.�

LSU senior inďŹ elder Heidi Pizer took a two-out,

bases-loaded walk in the fourth inning to push the Tigers’ lead to 2-0.

LSU senior outďŹ elder Ashley Applegate, who batted after Pizer, sent a grounder to the shortstop.

But a bobble allowed Applegate to reach base safely and another LSU run to cross the plate. “Whenever you have an opportunity, you have to jump on it,� Pizer said. “Especially in the SEC, when those opportunities get pretty rare. To capitalize on those mistakes and base runners like we did this weekend was really important.�

The third run forced a pitching change for Mississippi State, which paid off for the Bulldogs as the reliever, junior Kylie Vry, got out of the inning without giving up a hit.

Applegate struck again in the bottom of the sixth with a grounder to second base. She didn’t reach ďŹ rst, but the contact was enough to drive in the Tigers’ fourth run.

The game ďŹ nished at 4-1.

The win was the 20th-straight LSU victory against Mississippi State — a streak that dates back to the 2005 season. “In the SEC, the way things

are going, everyone is beating everyone right now,� Torina said. “All of those things will be a factor at the end of the year, so every time we have a chance to win a game, we’re going to give it our best effort.�

Mississippi State has proven formidable, though, receiving votes in the polls and notching a win against No. 8 Georgia earlier in the season.

Saturday’s contest was highlighted by a 10-strikeout, complete game effort from senior pitcher Brittany Mack.

Mack’s record improved to 8-4 on the season.

The LSU offense was powered by sophomore inďŹ elder Allison Falcon’s two-RBI double in the third inning, which put the Tigers up, 3-1, after entering the inning trailing, 1-0.

The game ended at that score.

On Friday, the Tigers fought back from a 4-1 deďŹ cit with an eight-run third inning.

Six LSU players racked up RBIs on the night.

Contact Albert Burford at aburford@lsureveille.com

TRACK AND FIELD

Track team opens outdoor season, wins six individual titles Freshman Tiger wins three titles Chandler Rome Sports Contributor

The LSU track and ďŹ eld team opened the outdoor season with a bang this past weekend, capturing six individual event titles at the Louisiana Classics meet held at the Ragin’ Cajuns Track/Soccer Facility.

Coming off a third-place ďŹ nish for the Lady Tigers and a ERNEST ďŹ fth-place title for the Tigers at the NCAA Indoor Track and Field Championships, LSU coach Dennis Shaver said the meet was a sound start to the outdoor season. “The way in which our athletes competed [Saturday] was impressive for a season opener,â€?

Shaver said in a news release.

A pack of freshmen led the way for the Tigers, most notably Aaron Ernest, who captured three event titles on the day. The New Orleans native took home the 100-meter dash title with a new wind-legal personal best of 10.31 seconds and captured the 200-meter dash title in 21.29 seconds.

Ernest then teamed with fellow freshman Trevor Sansone and sophomores Shermund Allsop and Ben Guarisco to win the

4x100-meter relay title in 40.26 seconds.

Rodney Brown and Jeremy Tuttle continued the string of impressive freshman debuts, leading the throwers in the ďŹ eld. Brown ďŹ nished as the top collegian in the discus, throwing 190-8 on his second throw of the preliminary round to advance to the ďŹ nals.

Tuttle set a new personal best in the javelin competition, shattering his personal high school best by 11 feet. He ďŹ nished fourth in the event after throwing the personal best on his sixth throw. “Many are already in a spot to compete at the NCAA Championships with their performance [Saturday] at the Louisiana Classics,â€? Shaver said.

Seniors Brieanna Kennedy and Samia Stokes paced the Lady Tigers, with Kennedy setting two new personal bests in the hammer throw and the discus.

She claimed a runner-up ďŹ nish in the discus and placed third in the hammer throw, and she now ranks No. 7 in Lady Tiger history

in the discus.

Stokes won her third-straight Louisiana Classics title in the discus, ďŹ nishing 10 feet clear of the ďŹ eld with a 171-5 on her third attempt. The throw puts Stokes in

prime position to garner her third straight NCAA Championship bid.

The Tigers and Lady Tigers return home next weekend as they host the LSU Relays on

March 23-24 at Bernie Moore Track Stadium.

Contact Chandler Rome at crome@lsureveille.com

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SOFTBALL

The Daily Reveille

page 11

Santos winning in difficult battle against Crohn’s disease

Infielder diagnosed at age 11

stomach cancer.”

Soon after being diagnosed, doctors removed a foot of intestines and a “softball-sized” benign tumor.

Santos, who started playing Scott Branson softball when she was eight years Sports Contributor old, knew the deck was stacked The rigors of being a student- against her to accomplish her athlete are hard enough without childhood dreams.

“Being an 11-year-old little anything else to overcome.

LSU softball shortstop Ju- girl that was like 60-something liana Santos continues to live pounds, the chances of me being out her dream to play collegiate able to come back and compete softball, and she does so with competitively was kind of slim to none,” Santos said.

Crohn’s disease.

The Newman, Calif., native Crohn’s disease, a form of inflammatory bowel disease, battled the odds and her symptoms all the way causes a vari‘A doctor told me I to LSU, where ety of “attacks,” some of which would never be able to she started all but one game as a are debilitating play softball, and my freshman in 2009, and can restrict physical activity. life would be completely when she earned All-Southeastern “Sometimes I different.’

Conference team can’t even get out honors. of bed,” Santos Juliana Santos This season, said. “It hurts to LSU senior shortstop Santos is batting move, it hurts to lay, it hurts to just exist for those .327 and is second on the team with 18 hits. few hours.”

Senior outfielder Ashley After a two-year process to determine the cause of the symp- Applegate, whose hometown of toms, doctors diagnosed Santos Modesto, Calif., is just 25 miles with Crohn’s disease at age 11 from Santos’ hometown, said and told her to expect her life to she is very familiar with Santos’ plight since the two played softchange.

“A doctor told me I would ball together as children.

“It’s been something that’s never be able to play softball, and my life would be com- really dear to my heart and somepletely different,” Santos said. thing that I’ve watched her grow “At first, they thought I had up and struggle with,” Applegate

said. “To watch her get through these four years with her disease and overcome the things that we as student-athletes have to do is really amazing.”

LSU coach Beth Torina said Santos’ drive and love for softball makes her capable of what she’s accomplishing with her disease.

“Those kind of kids, they’re just the type of people that you’re not going to stop them,” Torina said. “They’re going to do whatever they want.”

Santos said over the years, doctors worked to best control and limit her symptoms to allow her to participate as much as possible.

“I can’t eat a lot of food, and it makes it hard to eat healthy,” Santos said. “I’m almost opposite of a heart patient, so I can’t have grains, any whole wheat, anything like that.”

Santos also needs daily medications to control her symptoms.

“I’m used to [taking medicine] now, and I don’t really think twice about it, but growing up as a little girl, you kind of question, ‘Why do I have to take all of this medicine? I don’t see any of my friends having to,’” Santos said.

Aside from the physical symptoms, Santos said it’s most important for her to keep her stress at a minimum.

“The biggest thing that hurts me the most is stress,” Santos said. “Being a student-athlete is stressful enough without having

BENJAMIN OLIVER HICKS / The Daily Reveille

LSU senior infielder Juliana Santos (right), high fives senior infielder Cassie Trosclair (left) Sunday in the dugout during the Tigers’ 4-0 victory against Mississippi State.

this disease and then this disease, on top of it, I really have to try to stay on top of my schoolwork.”

Santos underwent another surgery Feb. 21, 2011, which she credits for a decrease in the regularity of her symptoms, and has found a way to use her disease to make a positive impact.

“I’ve been able to help quite a few people, especially little girls,” Santos said. “They send me e-mails all the time about having Crohn’s disease and wanting to play softball and use me as an example.”

Santos said she tells kids that despite the tough journey, they should never give up fighting their symptoms.

“For them, like what I went through, it’s hard to go to a pizza party and not be able to eat pizza because the red sauce is going to give you a stomach ache,” Santos said. “Little things like that are really hard growing up.”

Contact Scott Branson at sbranson@lsureveille.com

CLUB SPORTS

Rugby team suffers first defeat of the season to Fla.

Team loses, 17-14, in Gainesville

crept to within five points of tying as the final seconds of the first half ticked away.

The second half saw a strong offensive push from the Tigers, Morgan Wampold but a Gator conversion at the halfway mark furthered the sepaSports Contributor ration, 17-7.

The LSU rugby squad travThe Tigers did manage to eled to Gainesville, Fla., on Sat- narrow the margin with a late urday in hopes of adding to its converted try to make it 17-14. undefeated spring record, but the The squad made a final push team had its asfor the win, but pirations dashed ‘We had enough time to Florida’s defense at the hands of proved too tough a strong No. 4 score again in the end, for the injury-ridFlorida team, offense. but they ... managed to den Tiger which narrowly “We eventubumped the No. ally got the score run the time out.’

10 Tigers in a close,” Alongi said.

Allen Alongi tight 17-14 con“We had enough junior fly-half test. time to score again Junior flyin the end, but they half Allen Alongi said injuries kept driving it up the field and plagued LSU in the matchup, as managed to run the time out.” the squad was without starting Alongi said the game’s outforward Jase Pickup, who injured come doesn’t necessarily have a his shoulder, and senior outside damaging impact on the rest of center Jeff Levasseur, who is out their season. Florida sits at No. 2 for the season with a knee injury. in the Southeastern Conference’s Sophomore defender Ryan eastern division, while LSU is Sullivan was also unable to par- No. 1 in the West. ticipate, as he was sidelined with “If we win the next game, a head wound early in Saturday’s then we’ll be placed high in match. the SEC tournament,” he said.

Florida jumped ahead, 12-0, “Since we’re already ranked No. early in the first half, but LSU 1 and they’re No. 2 in the other

division, we’re going to be seeing them again.”

Alongi said he expects the Tigers to arrive more prepared and healthier if a rematch against the Gators was to come up.

The first step to securing another chance at beating Florida comes this Saturday, as the team takes on Ole Miss in Baton Rouge. The game is set to kick off at 1 p.m. at the Sport and

Adventure Complex.

Contact Morgan Wampold at mwampold@lsureveille.com

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page 12

The Daily Reveille

Monday, March 19, 2012

Monday, March 19, 2012

The Daily Reveille

page 13

The Daily Reveille

page 14

TENNIS

Monday, March 19, 2012

Men host No. 2 Ohio State, women split doubleheader

Spencer Hutchinson Sports Contributor

The LSU men’s tennis team faces its toughest non-conference challenger of the season today when No. 2 Ohio State comes to town.

The No. 27 Tigers (11-4) will take on the Buckeyes (18-1) at 3 p.m.

“Ohio State has been one of the best teams outside of [USC] over the last three or four years,” said LSU coach Jeff Brown.

“They’re a tough matchup for everyone.”

The Tigers have a steep hill to climb against the Buckeyes, but LSU already has experience upsetting top ranked teams at W.T. “Dub” Robinson Stadium this year.

In February, the Tigers upset

then-No.12 Texas A&M, 4-3, behind strong singles performances by junior Olivier Borsos and senior Neal Skupski.

Brown said Borsos and Skupski will need another good outing if the Tigers have any chance to upset the Buckeyes.

“It’s hard to win both one and two every match, but when we do, we’re probably going to win,” Brown said.

All six of the Ohio State singles players are nationally ranked, including No. 6 Blaz Rola and No. 12 Chase Buchanan, who combine to form the No. 1 doubles duo in the country.

Both No. 71 Borsos and No. 85 Skupski are ranked for the Tigers, but Borsos is only 1-3 in his last four matches.

Senior Tom Knights, who has won six straight matches and holds

an 11-2 record this season, will also look to continue his winning streak.

The LSU women’s tennis team will follow the Tigers with a doubleheader against No. 63 Ohio State and in-state foe Grambling on Tuesday.

The No. 50-ranked Lady Tigers had a busy weekend, splitting a doubleheader on Saturday, losing, 4-3, to No. 34 Minnesota and winning, 4-0, against Prairie View A&M. The Lady Tigers had several chances to pull the upset against Minnesota, failing to convert multiple break points.

“We have won matches like that three times this year, and this is one we just lost,” said LSU coach Tony Minnis.

The Lady Tigers fared much better in their second match

XERXES A. WILSON / The Daily Reveille

Senior Whitney Wolf belts a return Saturday in her three-set singles loss to Minnesota.

against Prairie View A&M. Senior Olivia Howlett, junior Kaitlin Burns and freshman Paige Bahnsen all picked up straight set victories to go along with a Lady

Tigers sweep of all three doubles matches.

Contact Spencer Hutchinson at shutchinson@lsureveille.com

FOOTBALL

LSU adds two members to ’12 class, one to ’13 Hunter Paniagua Sports Writer

LSU coach Les Miles said on National Signing Day that he was finished recruiting for the Class of 2012.

That turned out to not be the case as LSU added two members to its class over the weekend – offensive lineman Fehoko Fanaika and punter Jamie Keehn. The two additions bring the class total to 24 players.

Fanaika, a junior college transfer from the College of San Mateo in California, sent his letter of intent Friday and will likely enroll in May. Fanaika selected LSU over Florida and Hawaii.

“He loved Florida,” San Mateo assistant coach Tim Tulloch told Scout.com. “He also loved Hawaii, and he didn’t know what to expect from LSU at first, but he felt at home at LSU. They did a great job recruiting him.”

Tulloch said Fanaika, a 6-foot6, 360-pounder, is very athletic for his size and should fit well in the power-running style offense of LSU. “He’s a physical guy who gets off the ball,” Tulloch said. “He demolished an opponent this year that was a USC signee, so he’s played against good competition. He gets after it and is going to drive you down the field.”

LSU dipped down under for a punter, adding Keehn, a Melbourne native. Keehn, 22, will likely enroll in classes this summer and redshirt next season, according to Derek Ponamsky with Bayou Bengals Insider.

LSU ADDS DIARSE TO CLASS OF 2013 LSU picked up its sixth commitment for the Class of 2013 on

Saturday after John Diarse, a fourstar athlete from Monroe, gave his allegiance to the Tigers.

Diarse attended LSU’s scrimmage Saturday, and that was all the convincing he needed to see himself in purple and gold.

“As soon as I got there this morning I had a meeting with Coach Miles,” Diarse told TigerBait.com. “Then throughout the day I was thinking about it and then watched the scrimmage, and at the end of the day, I told [wide receivers] coach [Adam] Henry to sign me up to be a Tiger.”

Diarse held offers from Alabama, Arkansas, Mississippi State, TCU and Illinois. LSU will likely use the 6-foot, 185-pounder as a wide receiver. Diarse had 26 touchdowns and more than 2,000 allpurpose yards as a junior at Neville High School.

Contact Hunter Paniagua at hpaniagua@lsureveille.com

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The Daily Reveille

Monday, March 19, 2012

GYMNASTICS

page 15

Lee leaves PMAC with win over W.Va. Alex Cassara Sports Contributor

Every collegiate sport has Senior Night, when the team honors those members who are set to move on in their final home competition.

Ashley Lee, the lone graduating gymnast, had reason to celebrate for one last time at the PMAC on Friday.

The No. 10 Tigers (7-8, 2-4 Southeastern Conference) sent Lee off with a 196.850-194.900 victory against West Virginia, matching their season high as they look forward to next week’s SEC Championship meet in Duluth, Ga. “If we have this kind of performance at SECs with a little more confidence, we’ll finish in the top of the pack,” said LSU coach D-D Breaux.

Freshman Rheagan Courville won the vault with a 9.925 and her fourth all-around title of the season with a score of 39.500, bringing her team-leading total up to 17 titles. Sophomore Sarie Morrison won her third-straight bars title with a 9.900.

Freshman Randi Lau won her first beam title with a 9.850, and fellow freshman Lloimincia Hall matched her season-high score of 9.975 in the floor routine to win the exercise.

LSU handed West Virginia its first loss to an SEC opponent this season, as the Mountaineers previously beat both Auburn and Arkansas. Although she’s seen her last action in the PMAC, Lee and the Tigers will meet those

SPORTS BRIEFS Former LSU quarterback Matt Flynn signs with Seahawks Former LSU quarterback Matt Flynn finally got his big break in the NFL, agreeing to terms with the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday.

The contract is a three-year, $26 million deal with $10 million guaranteed, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Flynn, who spent the past four seasons as a backup for the Green Bay Packers, started one game last season, setting Packers records with both 480 yards passing and six touchdowns in a 45-41 win against the Lions in week 17.

The Tyler, Texas, native led the Tigers to the 2007 BCS National Championship in LSU’s 38-24 rout of Ohio State. He will be competing for the starting job with Seahawks quarterback Tarvaris Jackson, who threw for 3,091 yards, 14 touchdowns and 13 interceptions last season.

Penn State downs UTEP in PMAC for Women’s NCAA tournament In the NCAA tournament game at the PMAC on Sunday, the Penn State women’s basketball team edged past UTEP, 85-77. The Nittany Lions will

two teams, along with the other five SEC gymnastics programs, in Duluth on Friday to compete for the SEC championship.

“I can’t change my mentality because the home meets are over,” Lee said. “There needs to be a new kind of intensity because these meets are really big for us. As sad as it is to be done in the PMAC, there’s still business that needs to be taken care of.”

Besides providing Lee with standing ovations after her performances, the Tiger faithful showed their lone senior love by kissing a giant cardboard cutout of her face, which appeared on the Kiss Cam flanked by two eager male fans.

Surrounded by her teammates, tears welled up for Lee when a video containing kind words from the rest of the girls and her coaches played on the jumbotron following the win.

“It was bittersweet,” Lee said. “I couldn’t have asked for a better group of girls and coaches to spend this season with [and] these past four years. It was sad, but it was a good night.”

Lee added scores of 9.850 and 9.800 on vault and floor respectively, but Courville recalled the contributions the elder gymnast made off the mat this season.

“She’s one of a kind,” Courville said. “She’s the one that’s gotten me through the rough times. She brings a lot of laughter to our team. When we’re feeling down, she’s just always around to bring us up.”

Breaux said Lee is one of the few gymnasts on a very young

face LSU, who beat San Diego State, 64-56.

The teams entered the locker room at halftime deadlocked at 39.

Penn State (24-6) used an 11-0 run six minutes into the second half, much of it thanks to junior guard Alex Bentley and sophomore guard Maggie Lucas.

Bentley finished the game to pull ahead with 21 points, while Lucas fired in a team-high 23 points.

Penn State, a 4-seed, won the Big Ten regular season title, but lost in the semifinals of the Big Ten tournament to fellow 4-seed Purdue on March 3.

Contact The Daily Reveille’s sports staff at sports@lsureveille.com

team who knows how to prepare for postseason meets and that she’ll be vital to the Tigers moving forward.

“We need to carry our sense of humor, our aggressiveness, a sense of calm into our postseason,” Breaux said. “Ashley brings all of that to the table.”

Contact Alex Cassara at acassara@lsureveille.com

CATHERINE THRELKELD / The Daily Reveille

LSU senior gymnast Ashley Lee performs on the floor Friday during her last performance in the PMAC. See more photos online at lsureveille.com/multimedia.

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The Daily Reveille

page 16

BASEBALL

Monday, March 19, 2012

Lack of focus costs Tigers in game against Bulldogs New relief role suits McCune

Hunter Paniagua Sports Writer

MENTAL MISTAKES COST LSU AGAINST MISSISSIPPI STATE After LSU’s 7-1 defeat against Mississippi State on Sunday, junior first baseman Mason Katz said the team had a “little league lack of focus.”

That description may be appropriate, as LSU committed three errors against the Bulldogs and on, two occasions, lost track of how many outs there were.

After freshman pitcher Aaron Nola struck out Mississippi State third baseman Phillip Casey in the first inning for the second out,

sophomore catcher Ty Ross rolled a grind. I think the kids knew that, the ball back to the mound and but at the same time, those things started walking to the dugout. Mis- are hard to explain.” sissippi State right fielder Demarcus Henderson advanced to third MCCUNE EXCELS IN NEW on the error and scored on the next BULLPEN ROLE play.

Sophomore pitcher Kurt In the sixth inning, freshman McCune moved to the bullpen afcenter fielder Chris Sciambra made ter being replaced by Nola, and it a diving catch for didn’t take long for the inning’s sechim to get his first ‘McCune was great. relief appearance ond out. Sciambra came to his feet, That was the highlight of the season. pumped his fist M c C u n e of the day for me.’ and began walkworked two ining to the dugout nings after replacPaul Mainieri as a runner scored ing Nola in the LSU head coach tagging from seventh inning, third. striking out one “That was probably the most batter and allowing just one hit disturbing thing of the day,” said — a solo home run to Mississippi LSU head coach Paul Mainieri. State first baseman Wes Rea. “These Sundays have been a strug“McCune was great,” gle for us. I told the kids that I Mainieri said. “That was the know playing three days in a row is highlight of the day for me. I

thought he came in and threw the ball tremendously. ... That’s going to be a good role for him.”

FOSTER SITS, EDWARDS STARTS Mainieri gave freshman left fielder Jared Foster the day off Sunday in favor of junior Alex Edward.

Through the first nine games of the season, Foster was hitting .375 with six RBI and three strikeouts in 24 at-bats. Since then, Foster has just four hits in 36 at bats and has seen his average fall to .217.

Edward, who pulled a hamstring during batting practice before the first game of the season, made his second start this year against Mississippi State. Edward went 2-for-4 at the plate but grounded into a double play to end the game.

“Alex gave us a spark today,” Mainieri said. “I have not given up on Jared Foster, he’s too good of an athlete and too much of a gamer.”

Mainieri said he doesn’t yet know who will continue to play in left field but said a number of guys could see time at that position.

SUNDAY STRUGGLE LSU has now lost three of its five Sunday games this season. In those games, the Tigers have been outscored, 28-12.

“Maybe I get them uptight for Sunday because I talk about how important it is for them to show up on Sunday with the same frame of mind that they show up [with] Friday night,” Mainieri said.

Contact Hunter Paniagua at hpaniagua@lsureveille.com

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The Daily Reveille

Monday, March 19, 2012

page 17

Despite rough first SEC start, Aaron Nola is the answer

made it clear that despite the loss, cited his lifelong love for LSU he was still impressed with Nola’s sports as a key deciding factor. effort.

“To be honest, I’m not really “I can’t say enough about the sure what kind of money they are way Aaron Nola refused to give going to put out, but it’s going to up, and he take a lot to MIC’D UP Aaron Nola on Sunday: continued to go away from compete at LSU,” Nola MICAH BEDARD a high level said June 8, 6 R Sports Columnist 6K (5 ER) 1 BB after that 6.0 IP 7 H 2011.

His love I doubt LSU freshman pitcher tough first Season: for LSU isn’t Aaron Nola went to sleep Saturday i n n i n g , ” 3-1, 3.12 ERA a question, and with thoughts of getting shelled in M a i n i e r i the kid can pitch, too. his first-career Southeastern Con- told reporters after the game.

I can’t help but agree.

Earlier this season, he made ference start.

Not only did Mainieri nab Tulane look silly. He struck out six But that’s exactly what hapone of the most coveted pitching in eight innings, shutting out the pened Sunday.

The Bulldogs torched Nola for prospects in the South, he got a kid Green Wave for his second victory.

I describe how tough it is for five runs in the first inning, includ- who bleeds purple and gold.

Nola, whose pitchers — especially freshmen — ing four doubles brother Austin to bounce back from such a rough en route to a 7-1 ‘I can’t say enough Nola is LSU’s first inning. rout of LSU. The Nola proved Sunday he has Tigers still took about the way Aaron starting shortstop, was selected in the something essential for a starting the series after Nola refused to give 22nd round of the pitcher: a short memory. winning on Friday up, and he continued to 2011 MLB Draft.

There’s no doubt Nola wants and Saturday.

The way Nola compete at a high level The only reason to be a successful starter. he fell that far was But after Mainieri’s postresponded to his after that tough first because teams game comments, it’s clear Nola’s nightmare first doubted he would coach has his back, no matter how frame says a lot inning .’ pass up the oppor- he pitches. about the freshtunity to play with man. He didn’t Paul Mainieri his brother.

Micah Bedard is a 21-year-old give up an earned LSU baseball coach It’s a good mass communication senior from run in his last five thing he did slide. Houma. Follow him on Twitter innings of work, LSU would be in some serious @DardDog. striking out six.

His ability to bounce back trouble if it was still hunting for after such a harsh SEC opener a weekend starter with SEC play showed that he is still the right fit under way.

Contact Micah Bedard at As he weighed whether to for the Sunday starting role.

Sophomore Kurt McCune was sign a professional contract, Nola mbedard@lsureveille.com pegged as the third starter in the pitching rotation before the season, but he hit a severe sophomore slump. His ERA skyrocketed from 3.31 last season to 5.30 in 2012.

The loss was Nola’s first of the season. His performance shouldn’t fall off one bit.

No other pitcher on LSU’s staff has Nola’s strike-throwing ability. It would be difficult for LSU coach Paul Mainieri to pull him from the rotation.

After the game, Mainieri

Mainieri stands behind freshman

CATHERINE THRELKELD / The Daily Reveille

LSU freshman pitcher Aaron Nola pitches Sunday during the Tigers’ 7-1 loss against Mississippi State at Alex Box Stadium.

CATHERINE THRELKELD / The Daily Reveille

LSU baseball coach Paul Mainieri talks to the umpire Saturday during the Tigers’ 4-3 win against Mississippi at Alex Box Stadium.

March are entered in a

The Daily Reveille

page 18

NCAA TOURNAMENT

Monday, March 19, 2012

Bearcats edge out Seminoles, 62-56, to reach Sweet 16 Ohio, KU, UF all punch tickets The Associated Press NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Dion Dixon stole the ball and dunked to put Cincinnati ahead for good with 1:32 left, and the Bearcats edged out Florida State, 62-56, Sunday night to reach their first regional semifinal in the NCAA tournament since 2001.

Cincinnati (26-10) will play No. 2 seed Ohio State in Boston on Thursday night in the East, giving the state of Ohio four teams out of the last 16 still standing.

Sean Kilpatrick scored 18 points; Dixon finished with 15 for Cincinnati. Yancy Gates finished with 10, and JaQuon Parker grabbed 11 rebounds.

Florida State (25-10) snapped a six-game winning streak that took the Seminoles to their first Atlantic Coast Conference tournament title.

But the ‘Noles are heading home short of the regional semifinal they reached a year ago.

Luke Loucks led the Seminoles with 14, Bernard James had 11 and Michael Snaer had 11.

OHIO TOPS USF, CONTINUES CINDERELLA BID NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Walter Offutt scored 21 points, D.J. Cooper had 19 and No. 13 seed Ohio beat South Florida, 62-56, on Sunday night to advance to the NCAA tournament’s Midwest Regional semifinals.

The Bobcats (29-7) will play No. 1 seed North Carolina in their second trip to the regional semifinals.

Ohio trailed by two when Offutt swished a 3-pointer, launching a 10-0 run for the Bobcats. A pair of

free throws by Cooper made it 54-46 with 3:28 left.

The Bobcats had a 59-53 lead when Toarlyn Fitzpatrick connected for South Florida’s first 3-pointer of the half. But Cooper went 3 for 4 from the line while the Bulls missed three shots in the final 36 seconds.

GATORS CHOMP SPARTANS IN SECOND STRAIGHT ROUT OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — No big upset this time. Kenny Boynton and Florida were just too good for surprising Norfolk State.

Boynton scored 20 points, and the balanced Gators routed the 15thseeded Spartans, 84-50, on Sunday to reach the regional semifinals of the NCAA tournament for the second straight year.

Norfolk State shook up the West Regional when it upset No. 2 seed Missouri, 86-84, on Friday, and was trying to become the first 15 seed to reach the round of 16.

Florida put a quick end to that idea, making five 3-pointers during a 25-0 run that made it 29-6 midway through the first half.

The seventh-seeded Gators (2510) made it to the regional semifinals for the sixth time in 12 NCAA tournament appearances under coach Billy Donovan. They will play No. 3 seed Marquette on Thursday in Phoenix after their second straight runaway win.

advance to St. Louis. They’ll play No. 11 seed North Carolina State in the Midwest Regional semifinals.

Purdue was clinging to a 6059 lead and had the ball and under a minute remaining when Lewis Jackson, the shot clock winding down, lost control at the top of the key. Johnson picked it up and went the other way for the go-ahead layup with 23.3 seconds left.

Hummel missed an open 3-pointer at the other end, and Tyshawn Taylor scored a transition dunk for Kansas with 2.5 seconds left. After a timeout, Purdue sharpshooter Ryne Smith unloaded a long potential tying 3-point try that hit the backboard and the rim before falling away.

DONN JONES / The Associated Press

Contact The Daily Reveille’s sports staff at sports@lsureveille.com

Cincinnati guard Cashmere Wright (1) drives against Florida State guard Luke Loucks (3) during Cincinatti’s 63-56 win against Florida State in Nashville, Tenn.

JOHNSON RALLIES KANSAS TO 63-60 WIN OVER PURDUE OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Elijah Johnson scored 18 points, including the go-ahead basket in the final minute, and No. 2 seed Kansas rallied to beat Robbie Hummel and No. 10 seed Purdue, 63-60, on Sunday night.

Thomas Robinson managed 11 points and 13 rebounds for the Jayhawks (29-6), who trailed nearly the entire game but still managed to

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The Daily Reveille

Monday, March 19, 2012

page 19

SAN DIEGO, from page 9

CATHERINE THRELKELD / The Daily Reveille

Sophomore second baseman JaCoby Jones tags out a Mississippi State player Sunday during the Tigers’ 7-1 loss against Mississippi State in Alex Box Stadium.

NOLA, from page 9 harder than I did the first inning. If you don’t compete in the SEC ... it’s going to go even worse.”

Mainieri hasn’t given up on the freshman hurler, though, and he said Nola’s recovery from the first inning showed what he is capable of.

“Aaron Nola is a great pitcher,” Mainieri said. “The last thing in the world I want that kid to do is lose any confidence after the first inning of today. He pitched phenomenal after that.”

After digging themselves an early hole, the LSU offense didn’t do much to crawl back out of it. The Tigers managed 10 hits — all singles — but four double plays by Mississippi State limited LSU’s offensive production.

The only LSU run came in the sixth inning when sophomore second baseman JaCoby Jones scored on a groundout by sophomore catcher Ty Ross.

“Today we took a lot of strikes and swung at a lot of bad pitches,” Mainieri said. “Today it was more of a timely hitting thing than it was getting hits. We’re a

better offensive team when we’re not having to fight from behind.”

Though LSU didn’t strike out, batters didn’t have much of an answer for Mississippi State starting pitcher Kendall Graveman. The junior pitcher entered the game with a 2.82 ERA and allowed just one run in a complete game.

“He was mixing his pitches really well,” said junior right fielder Raph Rhymes, who went 4-for-4 at the plate. “He was throwing them low in the zone, and he kept his fastball down in the zone. It’s hard to square things up when a pitcher does that.”

Despite the Sunday loss, LSU clinched its sixth consecutive series win against Mississippi State.

But Mainieri expected more.

“It is good that we won the series,” Mainieri said. “If you win every series every weekend, you’re going to have a good year in this league. But today we wanted to win.”

“Being around home court is a real big advantage,” Kenney said. “They were our sixth man on the court today.”

The Lady Tigers began to use their size to their advantage late in the game. With San Diego State in foul trouble, LSU began to funnel the ball into the post, either connecting on easy baskets or getting to the charity stripe.

The Lady Tigers’ biggest advantage in the game came from the free throw line, where it connected on 26-of-35 attempts compared to just 7-of-20 by San Diego State.

“It was just concentration,” said Aztecs senior forward Kalena Tutt, who went 2-for-8 from the free throw line. “For most of our team it was the first time going to the NCAA tournament.”

LSU senior forward LaSondra Barrett came up big for LSU from the line, hitting 13-of-18, including 11 of her last 12 attempts.

Barrett scored a team-high 17 points in the contest.

“I knew we would need free throws toward the end of the game to win,” said Barrett, who leads the conference in both free throw attempts and makes. “I just refocused.”

Defensively, the Lady Tigers kept Aztecs junior guard Courtney Clements in check for the second half after a big first-half performance.

Clements came into the game leading all scorers with a 17.4 points per game average and dropped 14 points on LSU in the first half.

But LSU’s physical defense and foul trouble stymied Clements’ offensive output late in the

BRIANNA PACIORKA / The Daily Reveille

LSU senior forward Courtney Jones (22) defends against an SDSU player Sunday during the Tigers’ 64-56 win against San Diego State in the PMAC.

game, limiting her to just three second-half points.

“They did a good job of being pretty physical in the second half,” Clements said. “They knew where I was at all times on the floor.”

The Long Beach, Calif., native hit two-of-three 3-pointers and a number of short and midrange jumpers in the first half.

While Clements was in the zone, the Lady Tigers fell into a funk, hitting just four of their final 16 shots in the first half.

The win marked a successful return to the tournament for the Lady Tigers and a successful debut for others making their first

LSAT : Lay down the law. ®

Contact Hunter Paniagua at hpaniagua@lsureveille.com

run at it, including Kenney.

“Being in the NCAA tournament for the first time is definitely a wonderful experience,” Kenney said. “I was excited just for a pin when I walked in the door. ... Hopefully we’ll get this win Tuesday and be on our way.”

The Tigers will next compete against Penn State at 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday in the PMAC.

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The Daily Reveille

Opinion

page 20

Monday, March 19, 2012

North American Scum

St. Patrick’s Day sates Americans’ desire for culture, traditions THE NEW FRONTIERSMAN CLAYTON CROCKETT Opinion Editor If we’re all Irish on St. Patrick’s Day, I guess we can all go back to being American.

Which doesn’t cut it, does it?

Think of the times you’ve heard someone say, perhaps as a child, “I’m half French, half English and half Native American” — like a cultural man-bear-pig.

In actuality, to claim more than, say, three cultures or ethnicities is the equivalent of saying no culture at all.

But we are American, right?

It’s a tough dilemma to claim ethnicity as an American, especially when abroad. To claim a handful would be misleading, as few Americans’ lives are affected by the numerous roots they hold, but to say you’re American doesn’t suffice.

I faced this dilemma when I was in Ireland.

Being in Ireland was a dream for me. After having traveled through a number of European countries, I had to accept the fact that the British Isles were the only place on Earth a redhead such as myself could blend in.

Donning a newsboy cap and letting my red curls hang, I could finally fit in somewhere that wasn’t America.

But the cultural dilemma

WEB COMMENTS As usual, the Opinion section of our website, lsureveille.com, has been absolutely buzzing with reader comments. Check it out today, and let your voice be heard.

In response to Jay Meyers’ column, “Occupy Wall Street Movement needs leader to reclaim relevance,” readers had this to say: “You word your article like Occupy is a good thing. It is a giant waste of time, and the people protesting ‘income inequality’ could be using their time to

found me on our last night in Dublin. My brother and I had been drinking heartily — stout, as one does when in Ireland.

The first time the heritage question arose was in a restroom: One Irishman, drunk as an American claiming to be Irish on St. Patty’s Day, asked from where in Ireland I hailed from.

Flattered though I was, I told him I was American — to his disbelief. Flattered once more.

He proceeded to argue with me angrily about my being Irish, leaving me baffled as to how such a ridiculous argument could arise.

It must be noted that when drinking while surrounded by people with accents, one tends to pick up the tongue without noticing, and I was guilty of unearned inflection.

The drunken man’s weaselly Welsh friend — who would not stop ranting about “shagging” girls who weren’t Irish — had to bring my instigator home.

While finishing a nightcap with some locals, another man put the culture question forward.

“I love Americans, I really do, but it bothers me when Americans claim to be Irish,” he said.

Being inebriated, I was quick to reply that my brother and I were part Irish — surrendering my credibility in the process.

“When you ask them how far back they go, or when their family emigrated,” he continued, “they know nothing.”

actually work, earn a living and make themselves more successful instead of complaining about the people that are working hard.”

- Anonymous “Just wait for May my friend. Ever consider that maybe the reason organizers haven’t been visible is because they have been working to build the Global Insurrection? The resources available to OWS and the way the movement grows exponentially means that the organizing talent has grown. The leaderlessnes also means that everyone is empowered to organize, i.e. many thousands of protests being

The Daily Reveille Editorial Board

Matthew Jacobs Chris Branch Ryan Buxton Bryan Stewart Andrea Gallo Clayton Crockett

Editor-in-Chief Associate Managing Editor Associate Managing Editor Managing Editor, External Media News Editor Opinion Editor

TAYLOR BALKOM / The Daily Reveille

Baton Rouge locals wave for throws of beads from crew members at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade held Saturday.

It’s true. I don’t know when the English part of my family left England, or when the Irish part left Ireland, or when the French left France or the Scottish left Scotland.

There are only two options when answering to your heritage abroad.

Either you do your research and tell the truth — typically accompanied by the caveat that heritage isn’t prominent in your life

— or you say you’re American with a dash of what-have-you.

It’s a letdown, especially when in Europe where almost every citizen is rooted in his or her nationality. We Americans are left to our neo-culture of pluralism, business and politics.

To claim to be a melting pot and have strong cultural ties would be like eating the cake, too, so the best we can do is be aware of America’s place in the

world and beg the foreigners to forgive our modernity.

At least until the next St. Patrick’s Day.

planned across the country.”

- Anonymous

to run its businesses like they need to. You need to actually mention the specifics in your article about this horrible president instead of leaving it vague and picking on the Bush’s more than anyone else.”

- Anonymous

“I’m willing to bet this resolution will not change overall attendance rates and will punish students who want/need to take a day off for doctors appointments, errands, car breaks down, etc.”

- Kris Warr

In response to Matthew Westfall’s column, “All U.S. presidents have been guilty of big money influence,” readers had this to say: “Yeah, well how about mentioning that Obama promised to not hire any lobbyists into his administration right before he was elected but still did. Or how about Obama giving away billions a year to his green companies which fail, or maybe his excessive union connections that have cost this country copious amounts of money and freedom

In response to the news article, “Approval could allow grading on attendance,” readers had this to say: “Make your classes interesting and stop reading off a script you wrote 20 years ago, and kids might show up!”

- Chase Edwards

Editorial Policies & 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. 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.

Clayton Crockett is a 20-year-old international studies sophomore from Lafayette. Follow him on Twitter @TDR_ccrockett.

Contact Clayton Crockett at ccrockett@lsureveille.com

“I teach at Penn State and always grade on attendance... But I also always give excused absences when student notifies me of reason.”

- Jeanne Jacobson

Contact The Daily Reveille’s opinion staff at opinion@lsureveille.com

Quote of the Day

“We have come dangerously close to accepting the homeless situation as a problem that we just can’t solve.”

Linda Lingle former governor of Hawaii June 4, 1953 — present

The Daily Reveille

Monday, March 19, 2012

Opinion

page 21

The cure for panhandling: Don’t give change to homeless THE PHILIBUSTER PHIL SWEENEY Columnist Can you spare some change?

At the Circle K on Highland Road and East State Street, it’s as common of a question as “cash, credit or debit?”

Are these handouts out of hand?

The 2010 Census counted nearly 1,000 homeless residents in Baton Rouge, and they seem to all congregate outside this Circle K — which is assuredly among Dante’s Circles of Hell.

It’s a vicious cycle — or circle, if you prefer. And it’s almost become ritualistic at this point, akin to paying a toll to access the store, a mecca for stoners and beggars alike.

There, a Thirst Buster runs 69 cents plus tax. Not to forget the rest of the change in your pocket.

It’s a moral dilemma, ultimately. Sure, we ought to help

the needy. But are panhandlers really needy? And are handouts helping?

“I feel bad, but it’s uncomfortable,” said kinesiology sophomore Erin Schwenzfeier, who was accosted twice by the same panhandler during a recent trip to the Circle K. Schwenzfeier doesn’t bring cash with her anymore, which makes it easier to deflect the panhandlers, she said.

Begging to differ, communications graduate student Brian Goldenberg said he doesn’t mind the vagrants.

“I’m from Orlando, where it’s a lot worse. They’re a lot more aggressive there,” he said.

Orlando’s not in the Florida Panhandle, but it might as well be.

The city has matched its vagrants’ aggressiveness with such ordinances as requiring panhandlers to obtain permits and refrain from downtown “spanging,” or spare-changing.

Baton Rouge has similarly sought to curb “aggressive

panhandling and forceful begging,” according to Gabe Vicknair, director of project development for the Downtown Development District.

“We are mainly concerned with the safety of our visitors,” he said.

In January, the DDD put the bums, hobos and vagabonds of downtown Baton Rouge on notice. They proposed increased sentences and fines for panhandling, which is illegal and can result in arrest, according to Cpl. L’Jean McKneely, Baton Rouge Police Department spokesman.

But restrictive civil ordinances are the least effective means of reining in panhandling, according to a U.S. Department of Justice report.

Most effective, the report asserts, are education campaigns discouraging the public from giving money to panhandlers: “In all likelihood, if people stopped giving money to panhandlers, panhandling would cease.”

But there’s something utterly

irresistible about the pleas of a distressed human being, as music graduate student Joel Mathias attested.

Like Schwenzfeier and Goldenberg, Mathias was confronted by a panhandler outside the Circle K as he returned to his apartment from Raising Cane’s. “‘Help a brother out,’ he said.

I didn’t have any change, so I gave him a chicken finger instead,” Mathias said.

The incoherent panhandler was “probably tweaked,” he continued, “but he’s still a person. He still has to eat.”

The problem, Mathias said, is that so many panhandlers are dishonest.

There’s always a different misfortune du jour, though there’s often only one reason they’re panhandling.

“If they’d just say they wanted beer money, for example, I’d give them a buck for their honesty,” Mathias said.

But that’s never the case.

Rather, panhandlers exploit

humanity’s altruistic instinct — our sympathy.

Human beings are fundamentally philanthropic, which is perhaps the most beautiful aspect of the human experience: A life lived for others is ultimately a life lived for all humanity.

In turn, it is precisely this humanitarian drive that panhandlers prey upon, which is utterly condemnable.

In the end, should we find our souls moved by the ever-rattling cup of the homeless, we need only make a contribution to the agencies combatting homelessness — not to the panhandlers perpetuating it.

And that change is ultimately something we can all spare.

Phil Sweeney is a 25-year-old English senior from New Orleans. Follow him on Twitter @TDR_PhilSweeney.

Contact Phil Sweeney at psweeney@lsureveille.com

Eulogy for a dear childhood friend, AOL Instant Messenger PRESS X TO NOT DIE ADAM ARINDER Columnist A piece of my childhood died last week.

I used to spend hours pecking furiously at the keyboard, chimes ringing back and forth as hours raced by while I communicated with my friends in an amazing new way — over the Internet.

AOL Instant Messenger became a gateway for a new enterprise of communication.

It was texting before texting.

It was social networking before social networking. It was revolutionary for its time.

Last week, The New York Times reported AOL would be closing the doors to its West Coast offices, notifying roughly 40 employees they would be out of a job by the end of the month.

These 40 employees worked on our beloved AIM. More employees will be cut over the coming weeks, unnamed executives told The New York Times.

While this news isn’t exactly surprising, it still hurts to know something I used so often as a wee lad will cease to exist in the upcoming months.

Although the firing of these employees won’t end AIM immediately, it does usher the end of updates and patches, which will eventually lead to the demise of the messaging application.

While some may scoff at my dismay for the termination of the once-great instant messenger, if you think about it, AIM

influenced much of the way we use the Internet today.

Back before texting and smartphones ruled the world, online instant messengers were the only way to quickly communicate with another person beside picking up the phone.

AIM users could also customize their font size, color and background, giving them the first opportunity to have their own online persona. People were finally able to freely express who they were on the Internet.

AIM also led to sites like My Buddy Profile, where users were able to customize a profile with activities, likes/dislikes, quotes and anything else they wanted people to check out.

Sound familiar?

I’m not saying Mark Zuckerberg got the idea to create Facebook directly from AOL, but shortly after My Buddy Profile arose, Friendster became big. After Friendster there was MySpace.

And we all know that after MySpace died, Facebook took over our lives.

Unfortunately for AOL, AIM wasn’t able to evolve with the times and quickly became irrelevant. AIM has become nothing but a memory to former users.

Texting was the leading cause of the downfall. Why sit on a computer all day waiting for someone to sign on when a quick text could do the same thing?

Also, other services such as Facebook chat and Gchat over Google’s Gmail provided the same type of service to a much broader band of users.

Before it goes away forever,

MARK LENNIHAN / The Associated Press

The AOL Running Man was used in the company’s instant messaging feature, AIM, and is a reminder of the retired online trend.

I encourage everyone to sign into your AIM profile one last time.

See if you can remember who all those crazy screennames belonged to and all the fun times you had chatting with them in 24-point Comic Sans font.

Hell, if someone is actually online, send them an IM and see what happens.

While certainly outdated in this day and age, it’s sad to see something once so popular and widely used become discarded as nothing but a piece of technological history.

As you sign onto Facebook or send someone a text message, remember that none of this would be possible without the existence

of AOL Instant Messenger.

Rest in Peace, AIM. Adam Arinder is a 22-year-old communication studies senior from Baton Rouge. Follow him on Twitter @TDR_aarinder.

Contact Adam Arinder at aarinder@lsureveille.com

The Daily Reveille

page 22

Restaurant is seeking hostesses for evening shifts. This is a part-time position. Please call for an appt or email your resume to info@ ginosrestaurant.com. 225.927.7156

STUDENTPAYOUTS. COM Paid Survey Takers Needed In Baton Rogue.

100% Free To Join! Click On Surveys.

TRAVEL SALES REP Want to make extra money? Want to travel more! How about a monthly cruise for only $69.00. Help needed as Travel Sales Rep! Please call Nathan at 225-620-1187 for details! 225.620.1187 P/T HELP NEEDED at child care center in Central. Call Jessica at 225.261.8394 CUSTOM WEBSITE DESIGN by LSU Student$18/ mo includes everythingrfrank3@ lsu.eduwww. RFsitesolutions.com PENNINGTON BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH Center is conducting a study to examine the effect of Green Tea and Black Tea on exercise performance.

Who is eligible?

Males between the ages of 18-35 years of age Willing to take a nutritional supplement for 12 weeks Currently participating in no more than 6 hours of exercise per week Currently participating in a strength and aerobic program for at least the past 3 months What testing procedures will take place?

Cardiovascular Testing Fitness Performance Testing Lower Body Strength Testing Exercise Recovery Assessments Participant Compensation: Upon completion of the study you can earn up to $250.00. 225.763.2924 MAKE $200-500 DAILY ONLINE! START FREE TODAY! CLICK LINK & CALL ME NOW TO GET STARTED! LIONEL WHITE 504.654.8800 EARN EXTRA MONEY Students needed ASAP. Earn up to $150 per day being a Mystery Shopper. No Experience Required. Call 1-855-201-3786 GRAPHIC DESIGN Be creative while working part-time for local trophy store.

Email resume to lstrophies@bellsouth.net.

MOBILE DJ POSITION Complete Media Group is looking for outgoing, energetic personalities for our DJ position. We provide entertainment for private parties, this is not a Club/Radio job. Pay starts at $100/event + tips. Perfect p/t job for college students.

Weekend availability is a must. 225.769.2229 NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS for Veterinary Technicians, Assistants, and Receptionists. Will train. Shifts available: M-F 6:30-2 and 2-9. Saturday 7:30-4:00 and Sunday 12-7. Please apply in person at 7807 Greenwell Springs Road Baton Rouge, LA 70814.

HELP WANTED Student Worker Position available at the Louisiana School for the Deaf. Call 225-757-3236 for more information.

SALES REP’S NEEDED! Unlimited income and opportunities for advancement. Work includes networking with local businesses and experience in advertising and underwritingASK US HOW TO APPLY in B34 Hodges Hall or call (225)-578-6090 today THE UNIVERSITY CLUB is seeking an experienced head lifeguard/pool manager. Must be available full time for the summer and have experience in pool maintenance. Please apply in person at 15333 Memorial Tower Dr, Baton Rouge, LA 70810.

MATH TUTORS WANTED! Must be excellent at high school math, friendly, good with kids. Must be available 3-6pm at least two weekdays. Up to $11/ hour.

Contact us at batonrouge@mathnasium.com or 753-6284. *******BARTENDING******* $300/Day Potential NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY. Training Available.

AGE 18+ OK 1-800-965-6520 ext127 PART TIME HELP WANTED Small christian Landscape Design/ Build/ Maintenance looking for good Christian student to perform light office work and maybe some work out in the field approx. 15 to 20 hrs per week. hours very flexible. Please e-mail to rbforrest14@ cox.net or text 225.317.0741 RETAIL HELP WANTED Part Time. Weekday afternoons till 6:30 and Saturdays to start.

No experience necessary. Must work partial weekends, holidays and LSU Gamedays.

Near Airline and 1-12. Email purpleandgoldsports@gmail.com include phone number.

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS NEEDED! LSU Student Media is now hiring graphic designers for the advertising office. Work with local and national clients to network, build your portfolio, and beef up your resume! Come by B34 Hodges Hall to fill out an application or call Mary at 225.578-6090.

EARN $1000-$3200 A month to drive our brand new cars with ads. www. AdCarPay. com PART TIME EVENING HOSTESS Gino’s

APARTMENT FOR LEASE through summer. 3 girl roommates. pool, gym, tanning bed. $435/month 225.614.3098

WALK TO CLASS 2/1 3340 Wyoming $595 3/1 814 geranium $995 2/1 3187 Wyoming $495Studio $395 w/ s included 1/1 fen yrd $475 Pets OK, Mcdaniel Properties Mcproperty. mgr@cox.net 225.388.9858 WWW.GEAUXLUXURY.COM Pre-leasing August 2012

Monday, March 19, 2012

WALK TO CLASS 2/1 3340 Wyoming $595 3/1 814 geranium $995 2/1 3187 Wyoming $495Studio $395 w/ s included 1/1 fen yrd $475Pets OK, Mcdaniel Properties Mcproperty.mgr@cox.net 225.388.9858 836 W. Garfield 2/1 house fnc yd w/d conn. $550 McDaniel Properties 225.388.9858 WALK TO CAMPUS 1Br, 2Br, and Townhomes. Starting as low as $325.00. www. lsuwestchimesplace.com 225.346.4789

NOW ACCEPTING DEPOSITS Arlington Trace & Summer Grove Condos and Lake Beau Pre Townhomes 2 & 3 bedroom floor plans available DEAN FLORES REAL ESTATE www.deanflores.com 225.767.2227 HIGHLAND CRK $1400. MO. 3bdrm 2ba very nice home.avail june 1st 504-201-4170 SHARLO 3 BEDROOM 2 BATH UNIT FOR LEASE CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION 225.413.9800 TOWNHOME FOR RENT S. Brightside View Dr. Spacious 2BD/2.5B, W/D Included, Furnished/Unfurnished, Security on premise, 1 min walk to LSU bus route. $1000 225.650.9647

$500MTH LAW STUDENT Seeking Roomate Fully Furnished 2Bed2Bath INCLUDES Utilities, Cable/ Internet Must Be Student 609.221.6385

2 BD 1.5 BATH COTTAGE Close to LSU. Fenced back yard, private parking, 2-story, W/ D, $1,050/ mo. 7951 Bayou Fountain Avenue. Available April 1. 225.330.9286 or 225.757.0494.

LSU TIGERLAND 1&2 br, Flat & T/ H, W/ F, Pool W/ S pd, LSU Bus $450 - $675 225.615.8521 2BR 4119 BURBANK $650 You’ll love Goodrich. Walk or bike to class on path across the old golf course. Near Walk-Ons, Mello-Mushroom, Izzo’s & Taco Bell. LSU bus route. No pets. $400 dep. www.lsubr.com for pictures/floor plans. brrentnow@cox.net for more info.

YOU ARE LOVED “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent His Son into the world NOT to judge the world, but to SAVE the world through Him.” John 3:16-17 Questions? Comments? Prayer Requests’lsuencouragement@hotmail. com

SHANE NO ONE IS TALKING TO YOU sdavi21@lsu.edu NEED MORE FRIENDS? Did you move far from home? Do your current friends suck? Do you just wish you knew more people? We are currently taking applications for new friends to be enlisted among the ranks of our own. Do you think you are worthy? email us at friendshipapplication@ gmail.com and fill out our application to see if we find you suitable to be our new friend. No guarantee on the amount of spots available.

NEED A DATE?! Tired of being alone on Friday nights? Have a sorority function but don’t have a date and don’t feel like going with a frat boy?

Want free drinks and dinner with no expectations of anything in return?

Then email me! I am free every Friday night and will pick you up and take you on the date of your life or just be a quite shy guy who just takes you where you want to go and lets you do your own thing. You call the shots..

Email me at coxman54@yahoo.com if interested.

PREGNANT? NEED HELP? Call ST. ELIZABETH FOUNDATION. All Calls Are Confidential. 225.769.8888

The Daily Reveille

Monday, March 19, 2012

LIVE CLOSE. LIVE COLLEGE.

page 23 BURBANK COMMONS

RESERVE YOUR SPACE FOR FALL 2012 TODAY

UNIVERSITY CRESCENT

225.767.5585 | 4600 BURBANK DR

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225.768.7172 | 4500 BURBANK DR

B AT O N R O U G E S T U D E N T L I V I N G . C O M

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The Daily Reveille

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Monday, March 19, 2012