Bike theft on campus spikes in August, p. 3
Reveille
Students arrested for stealing seats, equipment from softball stadium, p. 6
The Daily
Volume 115, Issue 3
University funds allotted to scholarsips, financial aid and fellowships $51.4M*
$35.4M 2009-10
2010-11
www.lsureveille.com
The the scho ns l projected to tar arshi td p be more than rop and ~ pin fel $53M g i low n2 013 ship 2011-12 -14 bud be get for *2010-11 accounts for a 10-percent increase e b will p eco ea ~2011-12 figures assume there will be a mi k in 10-percent tuition increase ng mo 2012 SOURCE: LSU Academic Affairs re -13 sta an ble d .
Safe for Now
Catherine Threlkeld As tuition rates rise during the next couple of years, Universityawarded scholarships may decline. Because of the looming budget crisis, the Office of Academic Affairs has prepared a list of scholarships facing elimination or reduction in the next fiscal year. The proposed scholarship adjustments eliminates 13 scholarships, changes seven and creates one new award. The changes were approved June 4 at the Board of Supervisors meeting but will not affect current students’ scholarships. Any student who is currently enrolled at the University will not see a change in his or her scholarship amount unless he or she fails to meet the require-
ments for the scholarship. Last year, the University paid Stacia Haynie, vice provost $35.4 million in scholarships and for Academic Affairs, said reduc- fellowships. The allotment ining or eliminating the creased to $51.4 scholarship programs Some awards that may million this will save the Univeryear. be altered or cut: sity about $12 million Kuhn said next year. Incoming •Chancellor’s Alumni Scholars next year’s profreshmen will not re- •Golden Oaks Award jection for the ceive the same awards •La. Distinguished Freshman Award financial aid as current students — •La. National Scholars’ Award budget will inthe next class will see •LSU Centennial Award crease to more fewer scholarships. than $53 mil•LSU Honors Scholarship Despite the schol- •Tiger Scholars Award lion. Kuhn said arship program savthe projected in•Study Abroad Scholarship ings, the University crease in finanwill have to pay more cial aid expenin financial aid during the next few ditures assumes a 10-percent tuition years to accommodate the increases increase next year, which the Uniin tuition for the LA GRAD Act, versity has committed to pay for in according to Robert Kuhn, associ- many students’ tuition exemptions. ate vice chancellor for finance and administrative services. SCHOLARSHIPS, see page 11
OIL SPILL
NCDF launches Gulf Fraud Hotline Contributing Writer
Bethany Whittemore ag. business senior
Micah Elkins
Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2010
Nicholas Persac
University to cut scholarship programs; TOPS awards safe, will cover tuition increases Staff Writer
Dominique Allen officially leaves football team, p. 7
‘...Maybe [eliminating some scholarships] could possibly be a good idea.’ ‘I definitely sympathize with people who need the money.’
political science junior
graphic by MATTHEW JACOBS, photos by HILARY SCHEINUK / The Daily Reveille
Twenty-five people answering phones on the third floor of Johnston Hall are the first line of defense against fraudsters hoping to scam federal aid during disasters. These students answer calls about alleged fraud. After following a script and logging the claim in a database, agents from 20 different federal agencies investigate the cases to execute any necessary arrests. “Any fraud scheme at all ... to exploit the damages caused by this Gulf Disaster ... will not be tolerated,” said Jim Letten, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Louisiana. Letten, who is also executive director for the National Center for Disaster Fraud, spoke Tuesday morning during a news conference in NCDF’s Johnston Hall headquarters. He announced new efforts to stop fraud related to the Gulf of Mexico oil disaster. The center launched the Gulf Coast Disaster Fraud Hotline on FRAUD, see page 11
LIBRARIES
15 collaborative study areas open in Middleton Library Spaces accommodate 5 to 6 students Sydni Dunn Staff Writer
After years of huddling around a single laptop for group study, fighting for outlets and sitting on the floor, visitors to Middleton Library now have a solution — collaborative learning spaces designed for groups to work together comfortably. Most of the 15 new enclosed areas have opened, while the rest are set to open by the end of the week. Librarians hope the sta-
tions will tame congestion and enhance student learning. “Up until now, Middleton has only had four group study rooms, and we have observed many times that students will pull together groups of chairs to try and work on things together,” said Nancy Colyar, assistant dean of libraries. “We are hoping this will alleviate [the congestion] a little.” The collaborative learning areas are equipped with 42-inch monitors, tables and chairs to accommodate five to six students. Each station will run BeamYourScreen, a software that allows students to connect wirelessly to the monitor in order to collaborate on projects, group study and
presentations, said Greg Brignac, manager of Information Technology Services. Seven public spaces will be located on the first floor, and the third and fourth floors will house four study rooms each, all available by reservation, Colyar said. A Lab Technology and Software Support Desk, located in the information area of the first floor, has also been built to assist students with software. The project also features two presentation practice rooms, located on the third and fourth floors. “We haven’t seen anything like this at LSU,” Colyar said. MIDDLETON, see page 11
BRIANNA PACIORKA / The Daily Reveille
Students works together Tuesday at the new collaboraitve study spaces on the first floor of Middleton Library. The spaces were funded by student tech fees.
The Daily Reveille
Nation & World
page 2
NATIONAL
INTERNATIONAL Number of US troops in Iraq below 50,000 for first time since 2003
Jet misses runway and crashes in China, kills 43 and injures 53
Obama mulls options after stem cell plan blocked by judge
BAGHDAD (AP) — The number of U.S. troops in Iraq has fallen below 50,000 for the first time since the 2003 U.S.-led invasion and ahead of the end-of-the-month deadline mandated by President Obama, the American military said in a statement Tuesday. The number is a watershed in the more than seven years that the United States has been at war in Iraq. Under Obama’s plan, American forces will no longer conduct combat operations but are instead to focus on training Iraqi troops. “We’ve met our goal,” Gen. Ray Odierno, the commanding general in Iraq, told reporters Tuesday. “But the story is not about 50,000. The story is that we are continuing to be committed to Iraq. But our commitment is going to change.” Odierno said that going forward, the focus will be on economic, political, cultural and technological developments.
BEIJING (AP) — A Chinese passenger jet broke apart as it approached a fog-shrouded runway in the country’s northeast and burst into flames as it hit the ground Tuesday, killing 43 people and injuring 53 others, state media said. The Henan Airlines plane with 91 passengers and five crew crashed on the outskirts of Yichun.
VINEYARD HAVEN, Mass. (AP) — The White House says it’s considering its options, including a possible appeal, after a judge ordered a halt to federally funded research under President Obama’s stem cell research blueprint. Deputy Press Secretary Bill Burton told reporters Tuesday that Obama still believes his policy can lead to lifesaving treatments while maintaining “stringent ethical guidelines.” Asked if an appeal is planned, Burton said “all possible avenues” are being explored.
Romanian nurse arrested after hospital fire killed 5 newborns BUCHAREST, Romania (AP) — A court in Romania ruled Tuesday to imprison a nurse following a blaze that killed five newborns and injured six others at a maternity hospital in Bucharest. The court said nurse Florentina Carstea will be imprisoned for 29 days pending trial on manslaughter charges. The decision can be appealed.
Gay couple files federal lawsuit against Wyoming’s marriage law CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — A gay couple has filed a federal lawsuit challenging the Wyoming law that defines marriage as existing only between a man and a woman. David Shupe-Roderick and Ryan W. Dupree of Cheyenne say
the Laramie County Clerk’s Office has refused to issue them a marriage license. They’re asking U.S. District Judge Alan B. Johnson to stop the state from enforcing any laws that block gays and lesbians from access to civil marriage. Wyoming Attorney General Bruce Salzburg declined comment Tuesday. Wildfire forces evacuations, threatens homes in California LEBEC, Calif. (AP) — Fire roared through 750 acres of mountain wilderness northwest of Los Angeles on Tuesday, forcing evacuations as flames threatened dozens of rural homes, authorities said. Firefighters worked in 100-degree heat in rugged terrain as airtankers painted ridges with orange swaths of retardant to try to corral the flames’ advance. Fifty to 60 homes were threatened, said Michelle Puckett, a spokeswoman for the U.S. Bureau of Land Management.
TODAY
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STATE/LOCAL Scientists discover new oil-eating microbe in Gulf of Mexico WASHINGTON (AP) — A newly discovered type of oil-eating microbe is suddenly flourishing in the Gulf of Mexico. Scientists discovered the new microbe while studying the underwater dispersion of millions of gallons of oil spilled into the Gulf following the explosion of BP’s Deepwater Horizon drilling rig. Field worker first to die of rabies in Louisiana in more than 60 years (AP) — The Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals says a Hispanic field worker died during the weekend of rabies. DHH says the unidentified victim was initially taken to a hospital in New Roads and transferred to New Orleans, where he later died. Lisa Faust with DHH tells WAFB-TV that the case is the first death in Louisiana attributed to rabies in more than 60 years.
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FRIDAY
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SUNDAY 91 72
BSU Back to School BBQ Sunday August 29, 2010 5 pm - pm At the AACC, Free food & Games Career Services Diversity Reception August 26, 2010 5 - 6 pm LSU Union Atchafalaya Room All Students are welcome to attend Alpha Phi Alpha Informational Sunday August 29, 2010 at 7 pm Location TBA. For more info call (985) 351-8700. Please bring an updated resume. Business attire. Delta Sigma Theata Sorority, Inc. Present “Be Your Own Boss Today at 7:13 pm in the Union Castillian Room DO YOU HAVE AN OCCURRENCE? Call Michael at the Student Media Office 578-6090, 9AM- 5PM or E-mail: officemanager@lsureveille.com
SHAINA HUNTSBERRY / The Daily Reveille
Students are back to their scholarly pursuits on Snapshot at lsureveille.com.
CORRECTIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS In the Aug. 23 article “Phishing attempts, identity theft still dangers at University,” The Daily Reveille incorrectly stated Campus Federal’s credit monitoring service would be cut for budgetary reasons. Campus Federal’s program is not funded by the University and will not be cut.
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
The Daily Reveille (USPS 145-800) is written, edited and produced solely by students of Louisiana State University. The Daily Reveille is an independent entity within the Manship School of Mass Communication. A single issue of The Daily Reveille is free. To purchase additional copies for 25 cents, please contact the Office of Student Media in B-34 Hodges Hall. The Daily Reveille is published daily during the fall and spring semesters and semi-weekly during the summer semester, except during holidays and final exams. Secondclass copies postage paid at Baton Rouge, La., 70803. Annual weekly mailed subscriptions are $125, semester weekly mailed subscriptions are $75. Non-mailed student rates are $4 each regular semester, $2 during the summer; one copy per person, additional copies 25 cents each. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Daily Reveille, B-39 Hodges Hall, LSU, Baton Rouge, La.,70803.
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The Daily Reveille
Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2010
page 3
CRIME
On-campus bicycle thefts spike in August, 13 reported so far Police suggest bikers record serial numbers Sarah Eddington Staff Writer
The campus has seen more bicycle thefts in August than it has in any other month this year, according to LSU Police Department crime reports. Thirteen cases of stolen bicycles on campus had been reported as of Monday, while the average for the past seven months has been five reported cases per month. “We do see big trends, especially around this semester, of increased bike thefts,” said Sgt. Blake Tabor, LSUPD spokesman. Tabor said only about 20 percent of recovered bikes are returned to their owners. “A lot of that is attributed to not having the proper information,” he said. Tabor said the most important thing a student can do to protect his or her property is to record the bicycle’s serial number. “In our back lot, we probably have 200 bikes that I know probably belong to students here on campus, but we can’t verify that without the serial number,” he said. Another issue is locking the
ZACH BREAUX / The Daily Reveille
Alejandro Leyton, mechanical engineering sophomore, locks his bike near Lockett Hall. Bicycle theft on campus is on the rise with 13 reported thefts this month.
bicycles. “We do have quite a few bike thefts where the locks were cut, but the vast majority of the bikes we
have that are stolen were not locked up,” Tabor said. Brennan Percy, president of the LSU Cycling Club and employee of
The Bicycle Shop on Highland Road, tire with you,” Tabor said. said the two most common locks are Evan Jones, electrical engineerU-locks and cable locks. ing junior, said he always locks his Because U-locks are larger and bicycle at designated bicycle racks bulkier, Percy said they are best for around campus with a pick-proof longer periods of time. U-locks are cable lock. also the most durable and less likely “It’s an expensive bike,” Jones to be cut through. said. “I don’t want Cable locks are to risk it.” lighter and less du- Bike Thefts this Year Alejandro rable but are ideal Number of reported bike thefts Leyton, mechanical for students who engineering sophoon campus by month are locking up bikes more, said he rides January 7 between classes, his bicycle to class Percy said. every day and has February 4 “Bike theft never had an issue March 2 increases as the with bicycle theft. April 3 number of bikes Tabor said poMay 8 increases,” Percy lice can input sesaid. “But I ride my rial numbers into June 4 bike everywhere, the National Crime July 7 and theft has never Information CenAugust 1-23 13 been a problem.” ter, a nationwide Percy said database of stolen people usually come in every three items, and items can be retrieved to four days saying their bicycle was from anywhere in the country. stolen. “Anytime we stop a suspicious “My advice is to use a good person, and they are riding a bike, we lock, lock the bike appropriately run that serial number every single and park it in a well-lit, high-traffic time,” Tabor said. “Sometimes havarea,” Percy said. ing those numbers is the only definPercy said the lock must wrap ing factor as to whether you get your around the frame, the wheel and the items back or not.” rack. Otherwise, people can steal a tire or sometimes more. Contact Sarah Eddington at “If you’re going to lock your seddington@lsureveille.com bike to a bike rack, take your front
The Daily Reveille
page 4
Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2010
FUNDRAISING
University student ‘Tiger Talkers’ call alumni for donations Money goes toward Flagship Fund Linden Uter Contributing Writer
University alumnus Omobayo Famoriyo raised $86,159 for the University while he was an engineering student. He was a “Tiger Talker” for four years and is listed as the “Top Tiger Talker of All Time.” Tiger Talkers work to raise money for the University by calling alumni and other donors for contributions. Tiger Talk, a roughly 7-yearold fundraising initiative, provides part-time jobs for full-time
students beginning at $7.25 per hour, said Quinn Rainwater, creator of Tiger Talk and director of The LSU Funds. The Tiger Talk calling office is a computer-filled room in the Manship School Research Facility, on South Stadium Drive. There are 24 calling stations, and 60 to 70 students each semester are hired to work. Students must be committed to working twice a week, and work hours are from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday, said Josh Dicharry, assistant director of The LSU Funds. Tiger Talk helps maintain a database of all University alumni, including recent graduates. Funds raised by student Tiger
Talkers in the fall go toward the LSU Chancellor’s Flagship Fund, and Chancellor Michael Martin determines where the money is most needed in the University, Dicharry said. In the spring, contributors’ donations are distributed among the University colleges. “One student can make a difference,” Rainwater said. “They are left feeling good and want to give back to their former university.” Tiger Talk is a campaign initiative under the LSU Foundation, Dicharry said. The Foundation is one of the fundraising support organizations for the University. Another campaign initiative is Forever LSU, which has a goal of raising $750 million by December 31, said Beverly Brooks Major,
HOUSING
Cottages open despite slow market Complex likely the last to open for years Frederick Holl Staff Writer
The newest off-campus community has opened its doors, and it may be the last to do so in the near future. The Cottages, a student-oriented housing complex located on Ben Hur Road between Burbank and Nicholson drives opened for move-in Aug. 14. A dwindling housing situation in Baton Rouge may make it the last apartment development of its kind to be built around campus for years to come. The Baton Rouge apartment market had a jump start in 2005 when Congress passed the Gulf Opportunity Zone Act, known commonly as the GO Zone Act, allowing companies in Baton Rouge to write off 50 percent of the cost of new rental developments the same year they were built as long as the building was ready for use by Dec. 31, 2008. This law created a rental property construction boom in Baton Rouge. From the time Hurricane Katrina hit in 2005 until 2008, roughly
4,000 rental units were built in Baton Rouge, according to a report by Cook Moore and Associates Real Estate Appraisers. “[The GO Zone Act] was quite an incentive,” said Wesley Moore, a Baton Rouge commercial real estate appraiser. Sterling Northgate and the complex that is now Campus Crossing Highland on Highland Road were both built in 2006, and Regent Apartments off I-12 at Millerville Road was built in 2007, according to the 2010 Cook Moore report. But since the end of 2008, “all construction has slowed greatly,” Moore said. In the past two years, apartment vacancy rates for large complexes around the University’s campus have gone from 0.7 percent in
spring 2008 to 3.6 percent in fall 2009, according to Cook Moore’s report. There are no student housing development projects planned for 2011, according to the report. The Cottages plan to combat the weakening rental market by providing students with amenities and services that other apartment complexes can’t compete with, Young said. “Our entire product is different,” said Josey Young, property manager for The Cottages. Phase one of The Cottages sold out six months ago, according to Young, and phases two and three are expected to be completed by January and May, respectively. Contact Frederick Holl at fholl@lsureveille.com
director of Forever LSU. So far, more than $710 million in private funds and more than $34 million in state funds have been raised, Major said. Scholarship fundraising is the special focus of the Tiger Talkers campaign until December. Student Tiger Talkers must be open, patient, friendly and engaging with new people, Dicharry said. As students gain more experience, they also learn negotiation and conversation skills. “Just be yourself, and be calm and polite. If you sense that people are stressed out, it’s important not to be overbearing,” said Kevin Oubre, political science junior who has been a Tiger Talker for a year and a half. “You actually learn how to relax people.”
The job requires high energy, and on a productive work night students should make between 100 and 150 sales calls, Dicharry said. The job is not only about asking for donations, Rainwater said. “Tiger Talkers also act as ambassadors for the University,” he said. The best callers are the ones with true LSU spirit, who follow University events, love the campus community and enjoy sharing their experiences, Dicharry said. “Sometimes phone conversations may turn in to a trip down memory lane for one of our alum,” Rainwater said. Contact Linden Uter at luter@lsureveille.com
Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2010
The Daily Reveille
page 5
The Daily Reveille
page 6
CAMPUS CRIME BRIEFS Man arrested for DWI Officers arrested a 34-yearold man unaffiliated with the University for DWI on Aug. 14 around 2:05 a.m. LSU Police Department officers stopped Michael Decuir, 4115 Essen Lane, Apt. 290, Baton Rouge, for traveling 40 mph in a 25-mph zone. Officers conducted a traffic stop; Decuir failed a field sobriety test, said Sgt. Blake Tabor, LSUPD spokesman. Decuir was booked in East Baton Rouge Parish Prison after registering a blood alcohol level of 0.12 grams percent. Man arrested for intoxication Police arrested 25-year-old Kenneth Jackson, Jr., 5340 Ford St., Baton Rouge, unaffiliated with the University, around 2:54 a.m. Aug. 15 for DWI, careless operation, improper lane usage and suspended driver’s license. Police patrolling the area in front of the Music and Dramatic Arts building on Dalrymple Drive saw Jackson’s vehicle crossing the center line at 45 mph in a 20 mph zone, Tabor said. Police conducted a traffic stop where Jackson failed a field sobriety test before registering a 0.055 grams percent blood alcohol content, Tabor said. Though under the legal limit, Jackson was booked in East Baton Rouge Parish Prison for obvious signs of intoxication. Three students arrested for stealing stadium seats, equipment Three students were caught stealing from Tiger Park on Aug. 15 and were arrested. University students Michael Guerry, 19, 3080 Svendson Drive, Baton Rouge, Tyler Hartung, 20, 4514 Alvin Dark Ave., Baton Rouge, and Clayton Spencer, 20, 960 Tifton Drive, Baton Rouge, were charged with burglary. Joseph A. Wheeler, 22, 2369 Wisteria St., Baton Rouge, unaffiliated with the University, was charged with accessory after the fact. Police saw a vehicle parked near the Natatorium around 4:30
7:20 a.m., 8:20 a.m. Noon, 3:20 p.m. 4:20 p.m., 5:20 p.m.
a.m. with suspicious contents in the back of the truck, including trash cans and metal signs, Tabor said. Inside the complex officers found the three students attempting to remove seats from the stands, Tabor said. One subject was in possession of a softball bag, catcher’s helmet and several batting helmets, Tabor said. Officers confronted Guerry and Hartung; Spencer, a former member of the LSU football team, fled the scene, only to return later with Wheeler. All were booked in East Baton Rouge Parish Prison. LSUPD helps arrest man fleeing from scene, hiding under car LSUPD officers helped BRPD catch a 27-year-old man unaffiliated with the University on Aug. 21 around 1:17 a.m. after the man was seen running from police officers. LSUPD officers were patrolling Highland Road and Nicholson Extension when they saw BRPD conducting a vehicle stop near Efferson Hall. As LSUPD officers approached for backup, they observed Willford J. Williams, 462 Kernan St., Baton Rouge, running from the vehicle, Tabor said. BRPD had pulled Williams over for making a restricted turn onto Highland Road when he took off on foot westbound, according to Cpl. L’Jean McKneely, Baton Rouge Police Department spokesman. LSUPD officers subdued Williams on the north side of the
Renewable Natural Resources building where he was hiding under a vehicle, Tabor said. Williams admitted to drinking and smoking marijuana and said he ran because he was scared, McKneely said. Williams was booked in East Baton Rouge Parish Prison for DWI, restricted turn, no driver’s license and reckless operation. Man arrested for loitering in School of Music lobby A man unaffiliated with the University was arrested on Aug. 20 around 3:51 p.m. for entering campus and remaining after being forbidden. Police found Donald S. Hill, 35, 877 Iris St., Baton Rouge, after being dispatched to the lobby of the School of Music in reference to a suspicious person. Officers identified Hill, who had been banned from campus on previous occasions. Hill was booked in EBR Parish Prison. Man arrested for vagrancy Officers arrested a 41-yearold man unaffiliated with the University on Aug. 16 at 9:34 a.m. for entering campus and remaining after being forbidden. LSUPD officers were dispatched to the Baptist Student Center after receiving a complaint. They found David F. Zavala, 2600 Florida Blvd., Baton Rouge, who was arrested five times in 2009 for loitering. Zavala was issued a misdemeanor summons and released.
Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2010 Man arrested for loitering Officers arrested a 47-year-old man unaffiliated with the University on Aug. 18 at 1:10 p.m. for entering and remaining after being forbidden. Officers found Lawrence A. Garner Stevenson, 2418 Tennessee St., Baton Rouge, during a patrol carrying a bag that matched the description of one stolen, Tabor said. Stevenson was arrested and booked at EBR Parish Prison.
of marijuana and for a traffic violation. Police found David S. Burford, 2215 Sand Creek Court, Arlington, Texas, stopped in the middle of the roadway and initiated a traffic stop. They smelled marijuana on Buford, who admitted to possessing 1.9 grams of marijuana, Tabor said. Burford was issued a summons for simple possession and issued a traffic citation.
Student arrested for marijuana A 21-year-old University student was arrested Aug. 22 at 4:35 a.m. for simple possession
Contact The Daily Reveille’s news staff at news@lsureveille.com
Wednesday August 25
Pluckers Wing Bar
Mon.: $14.99 All You Can Eat Wings and $3 Pluckers Lemonades Tues.: Kids Eat Free, $3 Mexican Beers and Margaritas Wed: Trivia at 8 pm, $4.50 Mother Plucker Mugs of Bud and Miller Thurs: $15.99 All You Can Eat Wings, $4.50 Mother Plucker Mugs of Bud Light and Miller Lite, $5.50 Patron Margaritas Sun: $3 Pluckers Specialty Shots
9-10:30 AM 12-1:30 PM 4:00-5:30 PM 8:00- 9:30 PM
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off Green Zone Repo Man B
Sports
Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2010
page 7
Stonewall Sheppard Kelvin Sheppard takes on new role entering senior campaign Michael Lambert Sports Contributor
The centerpiece of Stone Mountain, Ga., is one of the largest exposed granite domes in North America at 1,686 feet high and five miles around. The LSU football team’s defense has its own centerpiece, towering at 6 feet 3 inches and totaling 240 pounds of brute force. Stone Mountain attracts attention from tourists, but the stonewall Sheppard attracts the notice of opposing offenses. Senior middle linebacker Kelvin Sheppard, like the mountains in his hometown of Stone Mountain, sets himself apart from the rest of the pack. “As long as I’ve coached this game, I don’t know that I’ve coached a young man smarter than Kelvin Sheppard,” said LSU defensive coordinator John Chavis. “He absolutely knows the game inside and out.” Chavis said Sheppard, who is coming off a 110-tackle season, does more than most players on the team. “I could walk out today and he could take them and coach them as well as I can,” Chavis said. “There’s no question about that. He understands the game, and as a coach, that’s what you try to get them all to do.” The alumnus of Stephenson High School in Stone Mountain had a relationship with Chavis before they wore the same colors in Baton Rouge. Sheppard mulled scholarship offers from many schools, including Georgia and Tennessee, in 2006 as a Scout.com three-star linebacker. Chavis, the Volunteers’ defensive coordinator at the time, was recruiting hard for Sheppard to join him in Rocky Top, but the prospect ultimately picked LSU. LINEBACKER, see page 9
Daily Reveille file photo
LSU senior middle linebacker Kelvin Sheppard (11) fights off Alabama offensive lineman James Carpenter (77) in the Tigers’ 24-15 loss Nov. 7 against the Crimson Tide in Bryant-Denny Stadium.
“As long as I’ve coached this game, I don’t know that I’ve coached a young man smarter than Kelvin Sheppard.” John Chavis, LSU defensive coordinator
FOOTBALL
Fullback Allen departs from team
Tigers finish up final scrimmage Sean Isabella Sports Writer
Sophomore fullback Dominique Allen has left the team, LSU coach Les Miles confirmed Tuesday following the Tigers’ third and final scrimmage of fall camp. Allen, who was expected to be LSU’s starting fullback for its season opener Sept. 4 against North Carolina, was suspended indefinitely in July for violating team rules. “His issues were he needed to follow team rules and guidelines,” Miles said of the bruising 255-pound fullback. “He did not. We said goodbye not long ago.” With Allen’s departure comes a golden opportunity for junior walk-on James Stampley to step into the starting role. Miles named Stampley as the new starter, saying he is “clearly the No. 1 guy,” with players like senior Richard Dugas and true freshman Connor Neighbors also battling for snaps. As for the scrimmage, LSU went through a total of 120 plays in its last full-scale preparation before opening the season in Atlanta. The offensive production was similar to the first two scrimmages, ALLEN, see page 9
VOLLEYBALL
Waclawczyk, Johnson anchor inexperienced teammates Some freshmen push for playing time Rob Landry Sports Contributor
Their stats may be hidden in the box score, but their importance to the team is front and center. The LSU volleyball team will rely on the stout defense of their liberos to make a run at a second consecutive Southeastern Conference title. The stalwart of the crew is junior Lauren Waclawczyk. Waclawczyk ranked 10th in the SEC in 2009 with 425 digs — an average of 3.76 per set. LSU coach Fran Flory said the biggest challenge
Waclawczyk faces is keeping her confidence level high despite the lack of recognition the libero receives for good play. “Libero position is a very difficult position because there are no stats,” Flory said. “You only get information that tells you that you played poorly. You didn’t pass well, or you didn’t dig enough balls.” But nipping at Waclawczyk’s heels are sophomores Sam Delahoussaye and Meghan Mannari as well as the freshman pair of Victoria Jacobsen and Brittany Steele. Delahoussaye managed to enter all 32 of the Tigers’ matches in 2009. She tied for third on the team with 11 double-digit dig performances and was fifth on the squad with a digs-per-set average of 2.23.
Flory has been happy with the work Delahoussaye has shown as camp has progressed. “Sam Delahoussaye didn’t start as strong in preseason but has really come on,” Flory said. “In the purple-and-gold scrimmage she had an outstanding match and really moved up the totem pole.” Mannari played 22 sets in 18 matches last season, 13 of which came in SEC play. Steele, especially, has caught the eye of Waclawczyk. “She’s making me work and making me go harder, and she’s making me fight for more balls,” Waclawczyk said. Though the Tigers return their leading defender from last season, the same cannot be said at the LIBERO, see page 9
BRIANNA PACIORKA / The Daily Reveille
Freshman defensive specialist Brittany Steele (22) foes for a dig in the purple-andgold scrimmage on Saturday, Aug. 21 at the PMAC.
The Daily Reveille
page 8
Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2010
FOOTBALL
Player injury forces Miles to rearrange three positions Sheppard may play outside linebacker Hunter Paniagua Sports Contributor
The linebackers on LSU’s 2010 roster have 17 career starts combined. Senior Kelvin Sheppard accounts for all 17. Inexperienced linebackers already posed a major problem for LSU, but junior Ryan Baker’s injury only worsened the issue. Baker, who will be sidelined for at least three weeks with a broken jaw, was expected to start, and the injury left coaches with a position to fill in the starting lineup. “Any time you prepare a team, you risk injury,” said LSU coach Les Miles. “We certainly do that every time we take the field.” Miles did not announce who will replace Baker, but he mentioned two possibilities. Redshirt freshman Lamin Barrow, who was one of the top Louisiana recruits in the class of 2009, could take over. Or Sheppard, who played all three
linebacker positions in 2009, could move over and play on the outside with redshirt freshman Kevin Minter playing the middle. “There will probably be a time where Kelvin will step into a different role,” Miles said. “Just because the Mike backers behind him can really play. Yet there are some other very, very fast, agile guys on the perimeter we can go to that would keep Kelvin in his normal spot.” Minter impressed coaches with strong play in the spring and cemented a spot as Sheppard’s backup at middle linebacker. As impressive as he and Barrow have been in practice, neither one has played a down in an LSU uniform. The unproven players surrounding Sheppard could seriously test his leadership ability, but defensive coordinator John Chavis has no concerns. “He’s a great leader,” Chavis said. “I don’t know that I’ve coached a young man smarter than Sheppard. I could walk out today, and he could take them and coach them as well as I can.” Sheppard led the team with
110 tackles last season and earned a spot on the 2010 first team AllSoutheastern Conference. But his impact off the field means just as much as his impact on it. “He’ll write down some plays for me,” said true freshman linebacker Luke Muncie. “Right now he’s probably my biggest mentor and helping me out a lot with the whole scheme.” Junior Stefoin Francois will replace former linebacker Harry Coleman as the third starter. Just like Coleman did last year, Francois will make the switch from safety to linebacker. The Reserve native played safety in high school. Rivals.com ranked him as the No. 4 safety recruit in the state. Now, Francois will try to make his mark as a linebacker. “He gives us the flexibility in terms of not having to play a lot of nickel,” Chavis said. “He also brings speed for our blitz package. He gives us a guy that can turn the corner and get there a lot quicker.” Redshirt freshman Tahj Jones and true freshmen Muncie, D.J. Welter and Justin Maclin could see
NICOLE KARAMICHAEL / The Daily Reveille
LSU junior linebacker Stefoin Francois, right, hits senior linebacker Kelvin Sheppard, left, March 9 at the indoor Charles McClendon Practice Facility.
significant playing time on defense and special teams. “We’ve got a bunch of young guys that really feel like they have to prove something,” Chavis said. “There’s a lot of competition.” Despite Baker’s injury and overall linebacker inexperience, Miles remains optimistic.
“I’m looking at these linebackers, and I want to make sure they’re ready to play. I think we’re going to be real happy.”
Contact Hunter Paniagua at hpaniagua@lsureveille.com
TRACK AND FIELD
Track stadium resurfacing continues Repairs should be complete by 2011 Hunter Paniagua Sports Contributor
Bernie Moore Stadium is a barren construction site for now, but a new track will emerge in time for the 2011 track and field season. Construction began July 1 to install a track with a new surface and renovated drainage and electrical systems. Track and field head coach Dennis Shaver said he’s pleased. “We’re really excited about the fact that the track itself is basically being rebuilt from the ground up,” Shaver said. The old surface, which had not been renovated in more than 10 years, was in desperate need of repair, Shaver said. The subsurface below the track had started to decay, and air bubbles were beginning to form. “It’s basically lived its life span,” said Eddie Nunez, associate athletic director for internal affairs. A bond covered the $4.2 million price tag, Nunez said. The bond also provided funds for a new gift shop and basketball practice facility. Profits from the gift shop and ticket sales will pay back the bond. “The track doesn’t necessarily pay for itself,” Nunez said. “But other things paid for with the bond can give back to another sport, maximizing opportunities.” D. Honore Construction, Inc. crews completed demolition of the surface and subsurface in early August, said project manager Dave Rhiner. Crews will now reconstruct the
subsurface and lay down the new surface. Rhiner said he expects to finish the project by the end of January as crews have not experienced any significant setbacks that would push the deadline back. He did acknowledge that the recent rain has created minor problems for the project. “That’s the nature of the beast in construction,” Rhiner said. “There’s not a whole lot you can do about it. I think we’re all aware of it, and everybody’s looking forward to a good, strong finish.” The track team will practice in the Carl Maddox Field House when
training resumes in November. “It might just be a little inconvenience,” Shaver said. “It’s not necessarily going to have any real negative effect on our ability to prepare our team for the indoor and outdoor season in 2011.” Once the project is completed, Shaver expects the track to be of the highest quality. “It will be the very best competition and training facility there is,” he said. BRIANNA PACIORKA / The Daily Reveille
Contact Hunter Paniagua at hpaniagua@lsureveille.com
Construction continues this week at Bernie Moore Track Stadium. The $4.2M project is expected to finish in time for the 2011 track and field season.
The Daily Reveille
Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2010
ALLEN, from page 7
as the Tigers passed for about 200 yards and rushed for about 175, according to Miles. “We like the position we’re in right now,” Miles said. “We’re still not ready to play a game, but we know what we need to do probably after we see this film.” Miles also noted the strides the offense has made, specifically the passing attack. “The quarterbacks and the receivers, there’s just a lot more chemistry in the passing game, and I think they’re starting to understand the run and that philosophy more,” he said. True freshman James Wright is one young receiver who stood out Tuesday and may find his way onto the field Sept. 4. Sophomore wide receiver
finished her high school career in Winter Springs, Fla., ranked No. setter position. 27 nationally by PrepVolleyball. The Tigers must replace setter com. Sam Dabbs, a 2009 First Team AllJohnson has been impressed SEC performer who also garnered with Pursley’s work and all the honorable menother incoming tion All-America freshmen. honors. “They’re fillThe Tigers ing in the role will lean on the of what we were leadership of semissing,” Johnson nior Brittney said. “They’re doJohnson to steer ing a good job of the setters in the playing hard, beFran Flory right direction. ing focused and LSU volleyball coach Flory said she being tough.” has faith in JohnWaclawczyk son as long as she plays within hopes the team comes together for herself. the season. “Johnson needs to just be an “I just hope as a unit that we athlete and not over-think,” Flory can be the best we have,” Waclawsaid. “She’s one of the best ath- czyk said. “With the strengths we letes on the court, and sometimes have, if we use the full capability she tries too hard to be a little too of every person on our team and good technically and when she our coaching staff, with everything thinks it’s paralysis by analysis.” we have going for us, if we can do Johnson recorded 46 kills and that our wins will come.” 151 assists in 2009. Freshman Shelby Pursley is Contact Rob Landry at the incoming setter for the Tigers. She dished out 1,028 assists and rlandry@lsureveille.com
LIBERO, from page 7
LINEBACKER, from page 7
“The two schools it came down to was LSU and Tennessee,” Sheppard said. “I just felt like LSU was the place for me.” The two reunited when Chavis joined the Tigers in 2009. “Me and Coach Chavis built a great relationship,” Sheppard said. “He ended up here so it was a great outcome.” Sheppard’s total tackles have increased every season since coming to Baton Rouge, but he has also grown in other aspects of the game. The middle linebacker said he is the leader of the Tigers’ defense, although the unit has outgoing personalities such as junior cornerback Patrick Peterson and senior defensive tackle Drake Nevis. “For the most part, all of the guys come to me asking me what we are doing,” Sheppard said. “The role kind of came to me, and I’m just embracing it.” The third-year starter has grown into more than just a physical specimen on the field. “If he sees someone mess up, he’ll go put his arm around you and show you what you’re supposed to do,” said redshirt freshman linebacker Josh Johns. Sheppard has gotten the attention of college football pundits after playing 40 career games, collecting preseason accolades such as a spot
page 9
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‘Sam Delahoussaye didn’t start as strong in preseason but has really come on.’
Daily Reveille file photo
LSU middle linebacker Kelvin Sheppard (11) tries to evade a lineman in the Tigers’ 24-15 loss against Alabama on Nov. 7 in Bryant-Denny Stadium.
on the All-Southeastern Conference preseason First Team, the All-American preseason Third Team by Sporting News and the Bednarik Award Watch List. “He brings a lot to the game,” Nevis said. “I always thought he was a great player. Everyone will know he is one of the best at his position.” The highly-regarded linebacker will begin his senior campaign Sept. 4 when he returns to Atlanta for the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game against North Carolina. “It’s a big-time game,” Shep-
pard said. “Opening with a team of that caliber on national TV at night is going to be exciting and fun.” But Sheppard already has his sights set on two trips to Atlanta this season. “That’ll be exciting coming back for my senior year, being able to open the season and hopefully ending the season in the Georgia Dome,” Sheppard said.
Chris Tolliver suffered a concussion during practice last Tuesday and will likely miss the season opener, leaving Wright possible playing time behind senior Terrence Toliver and sophomores Rueben Randle and Russell Shepard. “Wright had a couple big catches again,” Miles said. “Wright probably won the day in terms of young receivers. I think he expects himself to do well. He’s a fast learner.” On the defensive side of the ball, Miles said he is still toying with the idea of moving senior Kelvin Sheppard to outside linebacker with the absence of junior Ryan Baker, who is still recovering from a broken jaw. The move would allow one of the younger linebackers, either redshirt freshmen Lamin Barrow or Kevin Minter, to slide into the
starting lineup. In defensive coordinator John Chavis’ scheme, linebackers take the role of a nickelback, staying on the field at all times even if that means covering a slot receiver or tight end. But without Baker, Miles and Chavis may be forced to utilize more nickel and dime packages to compensate. “There is an understanding by situation you might move Sheppard around and play with five defensive backs, or play with the right mix at linebacker,” Miles said. Sophomore defensive tackle Josh Downs did not play in Tuesday’s scrimmage, five days after he was carted off the field in LSU’s last scrimmage.
Contact Michael Lambert at mlambert@lsureveille.com
Contact Sean Isabella at sisabella@lsureveille.com
page 10
The Daily Reveille
Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2010
Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2010
The Daily Reveille
FRAUD, from page 1
SCHOLARSHIPS, from page 1
of calls related to the recent oil spill isn’t yet quantifiable. The center handles fraud reMonday to handle cases related to the spill. A public campaign to raise lated to “any natural or man-made awareness and attract whistle blow- disasters” including cases related to Hurricane Katrina. ers is also underway. Letten said the center handles Assistant Attorney General Lanny Breuer of the Criminal Divi- personal claims, fake charities, sion of the U.S. Department of Jus- business issues and “more complex fraud” like public tice said the NCDF needs the public’s If you have any knowledge of corruption cases. Twenty difhelp to know when fraud occurs. Tips fraudulent claims or schemes ferent agencies — may be phoned, to obtain funds intended for including the FBI, the Department of emailed or faxed the victims of the oil spill: Homeland Security to the center, and • Call 877-623-3423 and the U.S. Postal whistle blowers • Email disaster@leo.gov Service — investimay remain anony- • Fax 225-334-4707 gate these national mous. • Write National Center for Disaster fraud cases from Breuer said the Johnston Hall the NCDF is look- Fraud office. Workers ing for people (Tips may remain anonymous.) at the center have taking advantage of the current disaster and taking fielded more than 39,000 commoney from victims. While simple plaints of possible disaster-related types of fraud have been committed fraud since opening in 2005. More in the past, Breuer said the NCDF than 25,000 of those cases were reis also looking “for that which we ferred to law enforcement for further investigation. don’t even know.” Letten said Lamar AdvertisA minority of people using entitlement programs are committing ing Company donated space on more than 50 digital billboards fraud, Breuer said. “Our goal is not to go after a from Galveston, Texas, to the fisherman, but to go after the fraud- Florida panhandle to promote the ster who pretends to be a fisher- Gulf Coast Disaster Fraud Hotline. He said 500 posters are displayed man,” Breuer said. Letten said the center, which across the region as well. is part of the Department of Justice, fields about 200 calls of alContact Nicholas Persac at leged fraud every week, but many npersac@lsureveille.com won’t be actual cases. The number
MIDDLETON, from page 1
“You can stand at a podium, display a PowerPoint, read notes and have yourself recorded so that you can watch the recording and see how well you did.” This high-tech presentation critique is great for any major, Colyar said, and rooms are available to all students by reservation. The newly constructed spaces were funded by student tech fees, totaling a budget of about $400,000, Colyar said. The budget provided all learning spaces, presentation rooms, study tables and furniture with money to spare. The idea for the project dates back to December 2008, under the administration of former Student Government president Colorado Robertson. After touring several southern universities, Robertson saw a need for an improved group study infrastructure. Since the approval of
funding, LSU Libraries and ITS have teamed up to make the rooms a reality. “This will allow students to use the technology available in a more collaborative environment,” Robertson said. “It allows a peerto-peer exchange of ideas.” Outlets and personal technology hookups will be added as the University evolves, Robertson said. Katie Fruge and Camille Deshotel, kinesiology seniors, were among the first to utilize the new spaces. “We used this area last year, and we would all have to share one small laptop screen,” Fruge said. “[The learning spaces] will be very handy.”
Contact Sydni Dunn at sdunn@lsureveille.com
tion to children of LSU System graduates. No incoming freshmen “LSU really tries to do the right in 2011 will receive the award. Political science junior Micah thing even though it doesn’t seem that way,” Kuhn said. “When they Elkins said it’s important to save make a commitment to someone, the Bengal Legacy scholarship. “We need repeat customers,” especially students, they do everything they can to make sure those Elkins said. “People will be concerned because it’s not only their commitments are met.” The increase in the financial college experience but their entire aid budget will continue until fis- family’s.” Elkins is a nonresident student cal year 2011-12 but will begin to decline in fiscal year 2012-13 and with no scholarship, so he “sympathizes with people who need the stabilize, Kuhn said. The University must continue money.” For most Louisiana residents, to pay tuition exemptions for all current students until they graduate. financial aid hasn’t been a problem After current students have gradu- since the TOPS award was impleated, the financial aid budget will mented in 1998. While tuition and required fees have start to decline to TOPS reflect the scholar- ‘Students who couldn’t changed, has evolved to ship cuts. Haynie said go to school without cover the majority of tuition for the University is striving to find a help, that’s something the basic requirebalance between we have to be very ments. While atoffering enough concerned about.’ tempts to cut TOPS financial aid to atfailed this past legtract good students Jack Hamilton islative session, the while coping with budget reductions. provost and executive vice chancellor state will continue to provide for the “The goal is to use our resources to bring a strong 95 percent of in-state students who freshman class and provide need- receive TOPS, Kuhn said. “I think it’s a wonderful asbased support,” Haynie said. The University’s primary set for students in Louisiana that need-based scholarship, the Pelican others don’t have the privilege of receiving,” said Richard Koubek, Promise, will not change. “The philosophy I believe was everyone who wants to or has the desire to go to college should be able to do that and not be limited by their financial resources,” Kuhn said. Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor Jack Hamilton agreed need-based aid is important. “Students who couldn’t go to school without help, that’s something we have to be very concerned about,” Hamilton said. One scholarship on the chopping block is Bengal Legacy, which provides a 75-percent fee exemp-
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page 11 dean of the College of Engineering. “And it allows a lot more of our students to graduate debt free.” Koubek recently accepted his position at the University after serving for seven years at Pennsylvania State University. He said LSU is different from Penn State in its funding in tuition, how much the University receives from the state and how many scholarships are awarded. Koubek said the University needs to strike the proper balance in its operating budget. “We need to figure it out without taking it away from the students,” Koubek said. “We’re trying to help the students and make it more accessible and not less accessible. It might be counterproductive to take the scholarship money away. That’s not a direction I think is wholesome.” Koubek said the University’s students are competitive among the best universities, and budget constraints are an opportunity for the University to “jump ahead.” “We’re not alone in this fiscal constraint,” Koubek said. “If we’re really creative to figure it out, it’s one of those opportunities.”
Contact Catherine Threlkeld at cthrelkeld@lsureveille.com
The Daily Reveille
page 12
CANCEL THE APOCALYPSE
Opinion
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Ground Zero mosque: a great misnomer What do you get when you combine large numbers of Islamignorant Westerners and the Islamophobic conservative media? The results can be seen across the country as our population stands divided on the building of an interfaith prayer house — also known as Park51, the Cordoba House or the incredibly misleading “Ground Zero mosque.” “But why is this misleading?” you may ask. For starters, it’s not solely a mosque. A mosque must be a simple structure built only for Islamic prayer. The word “mosque” actually comes from the primitive Arabic root “sajada,” which means “to bow down.” This building will rise 13 to 15 stories and contain a Sept. 11 memorial, 500-seat auditorium, theater, gym, swimming pool, basketball court, culinary school and bookstore. It will not only be a place of solace for Muslims, but for adherents of all faiths — and even those without one. Continuing on, the future site of Park51 is not, as its media-given misnomer suggests, located on top of Ground Zero. Rather, it is located a lengthy two blocks, or 180 meters, away. And this proposed building site, which has been repeatedly called “hallowed ground” across the airwaves, is nothing more than an old and abandoned Burlington Coat Factory. If and when completed, the structure will not tower victoriously above the skyline with minarets or belt out prayer calls five times a day. This place will be the Islamic equivalent of the YMCA — though a Village People remix seems unlikely. Given these facts, why are so many people losing their proverbial pant-loads over this seemingly noble endeavor? It is here, my fellow Americans, that we must establish the incongruity between Islam and what I’m going to call Islamofascism. Islam is the faith you see predominantly across the world — characterized by open hearts, good deeds and prayers of prosperity for all. Islamofascism is what you see when you turn on your television — characterized by violent protests, conquests of world domination through force and oppression of nearly every living
creature without a penis. So which of the aforementioned ideologies has been adopted by the mass media to justify the recent atrocities carried out against Muslim countries by We s t e r n militant force? Simply put, Islamofascism is all they’ve Andrew Robertson shown us. And as Opinion Editor much as the Islamic world tries to distance itself from the events of Sept. 11, Western media refuses to portray the overwhelmingly peaceful face of Islam. The average Muslim would never fly a plane into a building chanting “Allah Akbar!”— just as the average Christian wouldn’t kill his or her children when a subconscious voice told him or her to. I would like to address a final misconception about Park51. Its primary intention, according to Imam Faisal Abdul Rauf, the project organizer, is to show Islam’s readiness for dialogue and understanding in the U.S. It will not tower above the hallowed ground of the former Twin Towers. It will not serve as a victory monument or any other form of misguided hatred or bigotry. It will, one would hope, bring together opposing faiths in this, our great melting pot of a country. Regarding whether or not Park51 can legally be built in this particular location, I refer you to the First Amendment. This is not government land; it’s privately owned. Any religious institution can build whatever they so choose at the location. So, as we observe mass media hysteria in its truest form, I encourage you to actually examine the claims presented before you as settled fact by the pretty people in the television. When Fox News unwaveringly broadcasts Rauf’s “hateful” statements about the U.S.’s actions leading to 9/11, be quick to remember Glenn Beck saying the same sentiment three months prior — on the same network. When you only hear cries of
The Daily Reveille Editorial Board Sarah Lawson Robert Stewart Stephanie Giglio Steven Powell Andrew Robertson
Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor, Content Managing Editor, Production Managing Editor, External Media Opinion Editor
Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2010
“this is offensive,” remember we live in a country not governed by emotion. And anytime you hear of a community center being built, grab a shovel — even if the organizers pray differently than you do. Andrew Robertson is a 23-yearold English writing and culture senior from Baton Rouge. Contact him on Twitter @ TDR_ Arobertson.
Contact Andrew Robertson at arobertson@lsureveille.com
Al-Qaida attack not motivated by freedoms I appreciated Zachary Davis’ comments on the Ground Zero mosque and agree with his conclusion that freedom of religion includes Muslims. But I take issue with what he seemed to be inferring. Davis seemed to insinuate that al-Qaida attacked America for its freedoms. This is ridiculous. Osama bin Laden outlined the reasons for his attack in writing. It is accessible online. Here are some of the stated reasons: 1) The U.S. supports Israel’s attempt to colonize Palestine and ethnically cleanse the natives (the Palestinians) from the land.
2) The U.S. supported sanctions against Iraq that killed hundreds of thousands of children. 3) The United States put troops in the Gulf countries, which most Gulf Arabs consider a breach of their sovereignty. What would we do if anyone attempted to do any of these things to us? Simple. We would respond with violence orders of a magnitude worse than anything al-Qaida could conjure. Though al-Qaida’s World Trade Center attack was obviously an unspeakable crime against humanity, their stated grievances were, and still are, legitimate. We don’t have to fabricate our own. David McLaughlin medical physics graduate student
THE PEN IS MIGHTIER
ZACH CHATELAIN / The Daily Reveille
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.
Quote of the Day “Be lions roaring through the forests of knowledge.” Bahá’í scripture
The Daily Reveille
Opinion
Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2010
BURNS AFTER READING
page 13
Chinese schoolboy gets served by American Idiot
I had the unique opportunity to study abroad this summer with the University’s Business in China program. During that time, I had the privilege of talking and debating with hundreds of fascinating people from around the globe. But by far the most fascinating debate I had was with a young Beijing student named Annyong. The topic of our debate was pretty straightforward: Which government was more corrupt, China or the U.S.? To expedite things, we agreed to limit the time frame to only include incidents from the past 30 years. Annyong started the debate by presenting his case, citing numerous social injustices and cover-ups ranging from Tiananmen Square to the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Once Annyong finished his fiery polemic, I told him I respected his argument but humbly disagreed. America might be falling behind China in every notable statistical category. But, God bless
us, political corruption isn’t one of them. Let’s start with former President George W. Bush. In spite of campaigning on a friendly, non-aggressive foreign policy, the mercurial Dubya laid a giant mud dragon on the Constitution in order to start — not just one — but two ill-planned wars of aggression. Nearly a decade later, America has incited a new generation of “terrorists,” Iraq is in ruins and thousands of innocent civilians lie dead. Oh, by the way, no WMDs were found. Or as Dubya put it: “Mission accomplished.” And what was the price tag for this illusive “victory,” Bob Barker? About $1 trillion, much of which was either printed or borrowed from — you guessed it — China. But the carnage doesn’t stop there. In America, unjust war mongering is an easily transferable hereditary disease. A decade earlier, former President George H.W. Bush’s administration launched its own failed
crusade to supplant former Iraqi President Saddam Hussein — a bloodthirsty tyrant Bush’s cronies had massively supported years earlier to help “spur on” the Iraq/Iran conflict. Bush Sr.’s p r e d e c e s s o r, Ronald Reagan, also had his Scott Burns share of unsavory scandals. Columnist Remember the Iran Contra affair? Don’t worry. Neither did Ronald Reagan — especially after the Alzheimer’s kicked in. Nor did his loyal Lt. Col. Oliver North. In fact, every executive fax documenting the illicit transaction was conveniently “shredded” from North’s memory — and existence. Way to “win one for the Gipper.” Ironically enough, there’s a strong case that our generation’s least morally depraved leader was a two-bit womanizer named Bill Clinton.
Wet Willy is still most famous for his sexual conquest in the Oval Office and lying under oath about receiving “erotic favors” from White House intern Monica Lewinsky — a woman God cursed with James Carville’s disfigured face and Marlon Brando’s bloated ass. Thankfully, after warding off vicious attacks from principled family men like Newt Gingrich and Bob Livingston, Clinton’s legacy — and his pant stains — were eventually washed clean. After hours of heated debate, Annyong finally dropped his paddle and admitted defeat. The debate was done. His fortune cookie was crumbled. Not wanting to rub soy sauce in his wounds, I grabbed Annyong by his scraggly Fu Manchu and pulled him aside. I urged him to keep his head up and remain optimistic. “Times are changing,” I said. “Thirty years ago, it would’ve been hard to imagine a world where America would economically selfdestruct and become the financial lapdogs to a then-Third World
country. But, lo and behold, the day has arrived. “Just wait! Once the American Empire queefs out, China will get its chance to become the world’s largest, most oppressive regime.” At the time, even I didn’t realize the significance of my words. The global playing field is shifting fast. Times are, indeed, changing faster than we can keep up. Pretty soon, President Barack Obama might even have to personally get on his knees and carry out his own Lewinsky-style operation to extract more low-interest loans from the Chinese government. It’s a hard truth for Americans to swallow, but someone’s got to do it. Yes he can! Scott Burns is a 21-year-old economics and history junior from Baton Rouge. Contact him on Twitter @ TDR_sburns. Contact Scott Burns at sburns@lsureveille.com
SPORTSMAN’S PARADISE LOST
Budget cuts are opportunity, natural economic response
As the University prepares for major cuts in state funding, many have criticized the state legislature for failing to respond appropriately. Many feel education should be given priority during budget shortfalls instead of bearing most of the economic burden, arguing the constitution should be amended to bail out higher education. Economically and philosophically, however, cuts to education are not bad. Rather, they are natural and justified. Few would say it’s bad when the fast gazelle survives at the expense of the slow one. It’s natural selection — survival of the fittest. The same applies here. When something becomes unsustainably large, the economy will contract it. Only the economically fit survive economic attack. Shortfalls simply reveal the excess within the current public education model in Louisiana. The Louisiana Board of Regents oversees four public systems consisting of 40 schools — and that’s not including private colleges. For a population around 4.5 million, that’s excessive. As the legislature struggles to make ends meet and the federal stimulus stream runs dry, there’s a reason the Louisiana Constitution hits higher education during budget shortfalls: It can take the hit better than any other sector of public funding. Also, while state-funded schooling may have been useful in previous centuries, modern technology makes self-educating simple for anyone with computer access.
Amending the state constitution to pump more dollars into an overweight, outdated system would be silly. Those dollars would be allocated better elsewhere, particularly in the pockets of businesses and investors who could invest in privatized education — if the market leads them to. Budget cuts, though painful initially, will move education away from archaic means of learning toward modern alternatives. I’m not for abolishing the public higher education sysCody Worsham tem all out — yet. Drastic Columnist change is rarely good, and schools are vital economic entities. Rather, public and private can compete, with the winner determining our educational fates. In the current financial crisis, it’s important to remember no one complained in 2004 when the economy was solid, appropriations were increasing yearly, and the Flagship Agenda called for salary increases and massive campus expansions. First pitched in the fall of 2002, the Flagship Agenda planned to increase research support, faculty, faculty pay, scholarships and library holdings by $48 million until 2010. The projected cuts from the academic core next year? $48.2 million. There’s a reason those numbers are so close. The University, like many businesses in the previous decade’s financial bubble, spent
beyond its means to invest poorly. If the market demanded flagship status for the University, then Chancellor Michael Martin’s infamous flagship fee proposal wouldn’t have crumbled like Icarus. Budget cuts are not bad — just process. And process, as Robert Penn Warren says in “All the King’s Men,” is neither morally good nor morally bad: “We may judge results, but not process.” The state has other financial fish to fry, and the inflated LSU System can absorb blows other sectors can’t to make way for modernized
educating options, putting Louisiana at the forefront of educational evolution. In all, education is voluntary. You learn what you want to learn regardless of the system. Our minds can overcome any financial hardship. We must only adjust our approach and turn tragedy to opportunity. Regardless, budget cuts are an interfered economy correcting itself, and the delays brought by stimulus money, increased appropriations and inflated economic pursuits only make the correction more painful.
And with figures like $74 million in cuts for next year being thrown around, it will be painful. But pain and morality are unrelated here. It’s economic Darwinism, and to call cuts unfair is simply foolish and short-sighted. Cody Worsham is a 21-year-old mass communication senior from Baton Rouge. Contact him on Twitter @ TDR_Cworsham. Contact Cody Worsham at cworsham@lsureveille.com
MISS-SKETCHED
LACYE BEAUREGARD / The Daily Reveille
Classifieds
page 14
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Cost: 35 cents per word a day Personals Free for students
Employment PART-TIME STUDENT WORKER Small BR office looking for student available at least 4 consecutive hours on days schedule permitting M - F for shipping & receiving. MUST be attentive to details and be able to LIFT 150 lbs. Send resume to: ione@barnettpromo.com
NOW HIRING $8/HOUR Hosts/ Hostesses needed in Club/ Suites in Tiger Stadium for all 7 home games, 8 hours each game, $8/ hour. Contact scintern@ lsu.edu, http:// www.tfaforms.com/152997 or 225.578.4735
DON’T MISS THIS OPPORTUNITY! Now hiring for all positions at the following locations: JEFFERSON 7615 Jefferson Hwy Baton Rouge 70809 PERKINS ROWE 7707 Bluebonnet Blvd. Baton Rouge 70810 “Flexible schedules & Benefits for Full Time Associates” Please apply in person during regular restaurant hours. Equal Opportunity Employer
Housing
Deadlines: 12 noon two school days prior to the print publication date
Merchandise
TENNIS INSTRUCTOR NEEDED for established tennis program. Experience preferred, but will train with little prior experience. Mon -Thur afternoons, some weekends, 6 to 8 hrs/wk. Please call only. 225.803.3361
PRESCHOOL TEACHER NEEDED Small learning center near LSU needs nurturing part time teacher who loves to work with young children 2:30 - 5:30 M-F. 225.766.1159
COLLEGE OF SCIENCE Dean’s Office has an opening for a sophomore or junior student worker beginning Monday, August 30th. All majors are welcome to apply. Applicants must be able to work 11:30-1:30 M-F. Job includes office duties. Submit letter of application, resume and list of references to Martha A. Cedotal, Sr. Assistant Dean, 351 Hatcher Hall. 225.578.4001
PARRAIN’S SEAFOOD Now hiring all front of the house positions. Apply in person Mon-Fri between 2:00 and 5:00 225.381.9922
EARN $1000-$3200 A month to drive our brand new cars with ads placed on them. www. AdCarDriver.com
PLUCKERS WING BAR NOW HIRING Cooks and Delivery Drivers. Apply at 4225 Nicholson
TJ RIBS ACADIAN Now hiring servers. Must have 1 year exp. Apply Mon-Fri between 2-4 PM
RETAIL SALES Wanted, out going, energetic sales associate. Must be mature and self motivated. Apply in person. I Love Shoes, 7729 Jefferson Hwy. 225.767.9043
PART TIME IT WORK Work around school schedule possible. Experience and professional appearance required. Send resume to resume@tcbns.com
NOW HIRING FOR FALL! Child Care Center near LSU now hiring for Fall Semester. Afternoon Teachers needed 2:30-5:30 Mon-Fri. 225.766.1159
COOL JOB TRAINING FOR FUTURE Do you want a job as a social media specialist after graduation? We will provide training for you NOW!! These jobs will be in high demand at large companies. Looking for a sophomore or junior to grow with this job until you are ready to graduate. 90% of our students get placed in careers post graduation. Business, Communications, Marketing, & Entrepreneurship students encouraged to apply. Fill out application in B39 Hodges Hall. Or send resume to: marketing@lsureveille.com to be considered for an interview.
CHILD CARE WORKER NEEDED Sundays, 8:30am 12:30pm; 4pm-7pm. Working with infants thru age 5. Experience preferred. $8.50/hour. Contact michael@ fccbrla.org 225.926.4175
BABYSITTER NEEDED! Babysitter for 2 children (9 & 11). Trustworthy, dependable & fun-loving. Need references. 225.753.0763
PRE-DENTAL HYGIENE STUDENTS needed to assist Hygienist M, W, F mornings. No experience necessary. Please fax resume to 296-0218 or email to tsav45@ gmail.com 225.296.5980
N SUPER STAR SALES PERSON Massage Envy is looking for enthusiastic, experienced sales people for our busy clinic. Must be willing to work nights / weekends. Send resume to Hiring@MassageEnvyBR.com. Wages + commissions + benefits. www.massageenvycareers.com
SALES REPS NEEDED to sell cellcontrol; our accurate, secure and dependable solution for distracted driving caused by cellular phones and other mobile devices to businesses throughout the US and Canada. Hourly + Commission 225.215.0079
ROCKSTARS WANTED - JIMMY JOHNS DO YOU ROCK? Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches is looking for KICKASS Sandwich Makers and Delivery Drivers. Now taking apps for both locations(Perkins and Cousey) Apply in person 3043 Perkins
MAXWELL’S MARKET Now hiring cashiers, servers, and kitchen postions for part time shifts. Flexible schedules. Please apply in person at 7620 Corporate Blvd or 6241 Perkins Rd.
KENNEL TECHNICIAN needed for busy veterinary office. Weekend shift work. 225.756.0204 DEREK CHANG’S KOTO Now Hiring Server, Hostess, Cashier. Limit positions. Apply today! 456-5454
MAKE EXTRA CASH At College Typing Ads for Companies! Work PT/FT. Earn $100s Weekly! www.bit.ly/ LSUDataWork
P/T SALES ASSOC. Energetic, Happy, Outgoing salesperson needed asap. 20-25hrs/wk. Great place to work w/ great hours. Mon-Fri 10-6, Sat 10-5, Sun 12-5. Some weekends req. Email resume 2222gift@ gmail.com
Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2010
Transportation
INTERVIEWING IN NOLA for Katrina Recovery. Join our LSU Sociology Research Team to conduct interviews of residents in New Orleans neighborhoods. Saturday trips to New Orleans, with full day of work. $9/ hr with free round-trip transportation & lunch. Interesting, meaningful teamwork on community recovery. Contact David Maddox, dmaddo1@tigers.lsu.edu
STUDENT WORK! $16.00 Starting Pay! Customer Sales/ Svc. Flexible PT/ FT, No Exp Necc. Conditions Apply- Call NOW! 225-237-3002
ACTORS, MODELS, MAKEUP ARTISTS wanted for THE 13TH GATE Haunted House. No Exp. needed. Good Pay. Flexible Hours. Apply in Person at 832 St. Philip St. downtown BR. September 4th, 5th, 11th, 12th. 9am-5pm jamie@midnightproduction.com 225-921-8006
For Sale TIGER MANOR CONDOMINIUMS. UNITS READY FOR FALL and SPRING 2010-2011!! Reserve now! Brand new 1, 2, and 3 bedroom units for sale starting at $124,900. Ask about our Guaranteed Buy-Back Program!! 3000 July St. 225-346-5055 www.tigermanor. com Location. Location. Location... Start Living. 225.383.0143
DELIVERY DRIVER NEEDED at busy denture lab. Neat, good driving record & drug screen reqd. PT. 225.201.0880 1 BR / 1 BA CONDO, Gated Complex, Ample Parking, Sparkling Pool, on LSU Bus Route (Brightside). $63,000. 337.937.5585 AFTER SCHOOL CARE River Road After School Care is looking for a caring and responsible person to work M-F 2:30-6:00. 225.336.9030 VW BEETLE TURBO S 2003 dark grey 6 spd new tires loaded fast 334.663.4936 PETZ PLAZA NOW HIRING We are now hiring for PT receptionist and kennel workers at our Jefferson location. Please come by to fill out an application. 225.302.5926
For Rent
STUDENT WORKERS NEEDED for vocational counseling co. fax resume to toll free 1-309-405-1532 BRICK 5BR3BA 3MIN. LSU NEW KIT. APPL., W/D, INT&CABLE READY, 225.241.4679 STUDENTPAYOUTS. COM Paid Survey Takers Needed In Baton Rogue. 100% Free To Join! Click On Surveys.
VETRINARY CLINIC Seeking part time help. General duties including kennel, helping vet and assisting in surgery. Apply 1302 Perkins Rd 225.381.9661
PARKVIEW BAPTIST PRESCHOOL Preschool Afternoon Teachers needed 3-6pm flex days. no degree required. Please email your resume to parkviewbps@gmail.com
ROOMATES NEEDED 2 Roommates needed for house near LSU. Rent $500 (negotiable) plus utilities. Girls preferable. Call for details - 225.247.0804
LARGE 1-BR (650 sq ft) $500 and 2-br (1170 sq ft) $700 in small quiet complex ideal for serious students. Walk, cycle or take the LSU bus to school, shopping. On-site manager, reserved parking, video surveillence security. 757-8175. Apply online at http://riverroadapartments.tripod.com
1-2 BR APTS near LSU, $500-$600, water, sewage, Hot water included. Call Wang 225.278.6621, 225.278.6622
Services
CHATEAU DU COUR IN TIGERLAND Large 2 BR 1 B in gated complex..772-2429 mckproperties.com
TIGER MANOR CONDOMINIUMS. UNITS READY FOR Fall 2010 and Spring 2011!! Reserve Now! Brand new 1, 2, & 3 bedrooms available. Reserve your unit today! Walk to class! 3000 July St. 225-346-5055. www.tigermanor.com Location. Location. Location... Start Living. 225.383.0143
2- BEDROOM L.S.U. BUS ROUTE 2-bedroom townhouse, fully furnished 1 and 1/2 baths at 1722 brightside $950.00 per mo. $600.00 dep. 1 yr. lease -296-4006 or 504-495-1733 504.296.4006
LSU TIGERLAND 1-2 BR, TH & Flats, Pool, W/S Paid, $450 - $650/mo. 225.615.8521
CANTERBURY SQUARE APTS 1 and 2 bedrooms $455-$545 NOW LEASING Graduate and part-time students 3003 River Road 225.343.2466
CONDO ON LSU BUS ROUTE 3 bdrms, 2 baths, $1500/mo, 504-400-1904 or 504.250.3799
ONE BEDROOM DOWNTOWN Beauregard Town with W/D $695 plus utilities (approx $200). kelly@ stuartconnolly.com 225.241.6014
1,2,3 BR CONDOS IN BRIGHTSIDE / SHARLO $650$1000. 955-6480 southlandpropertiesinc.com
HIGHLAND ROAD House 3 br 2 ba available Aug 1st $1099.00 225.769.1079
$1500 3B/3B CONDO NEAR LSU. GATED, POOL, W/D, IN COURTNEY PLACE CONDOMINIUMS. NO PETS PLEASE. 225.362.2559
L S U Walk to Campus -pool- 2BR all appls. inc w/ d $695 1BR $495 Studio inc ul’s $445. 2BR near BRCC $595. 766-5511
WALK TO LSU from Les Petite Apts. 3313 Iowa St. 1BRUN all electric central A/ C washateria $450 call 225-938-3999 or 225.766.0579
HIGHLAND ROAD House 3br/2ba $1099/mo. 225.769.1079
NOT TOO LATE! 3br/2ba gated, on LSU bus route, pool, assigned parking. 1/2 1st month free. $1400/ mo 318.447.2622
The Daily Reveille
Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2010
BRIGHTSIDE PARK TOWNHOMES LARGE 2BR 2.5 BATH W/ D, POOL, PETS OK, 1737 S. BRIGHTSIDE VIEW. $800 955-6480/588-3070 southlandpropertiesinc.com
3 Bedroom 1 Bath - $1100/month 875 Aster St. Walk to LSU. Washer Dryer Dishwasher. Central AC, all hardwood floors. Pets OK. Fenced in backyard. Call for an appointment to see. 225.205.0390
Tiger Manor Rental $525/mo 3 bdrm apt., 1 room available, 2 Roomates, seniors 1-Accounting, 1-Engineering. Excellent accomodations. Walk to campus. Call Doug-337-316-1647, or 337-234-019 337.234.0196
1726 BRIGHTSIDE MANOR Beautiful 2br on Bus Rt. washer/dryer, fenced patio, wat/sew pd. $850 Move in special 588-3070
BEAU CHENE CONDOS 2BR 2BATH WITH WOOD FLOORS AND ALL APPLIANCES $950 w/s pd 5883070 or 955-6480
Gated Communities, Clubhouse with Work Out Room, Pool & Gaming Areas Dean Flores Real Estate 225.767.2227
Roommate Wanted Female Roomate Needed to share 3BR/2Bath condo, on LSU bus route, $500+utilities/mo. Call Heather 337.780.9159 or 225.767.8830
Personals
Contrived female seeks male dirtbag for viewings of Pauly Shore’s 1993 classic film Son in Law. cwill2@ lsu.edu
Miscellaneous
Spacious Room available Room available in 2 bedroom Heatherstone townhouse. 2.5 bath, furnished living, dining, and kitchen. $595/month plus utilities. Email sshira3@tigers.lsu. edu for more info.
Fem. Grad students 4bedrm/2ba house, common area furnished, Nicholson Lakes $400.+util. 504.717.5188
female roommate needed $450 PER MONTH PLUS UTILITIES CLOSE TO CAMPUS ON LSU’S BUS ROUTE, 4625 BURBANK COURTNEY PLACE CONDOMINIUMS SBM3720@COX. NET OR 504.382.9631
NEAR LSU Carlotta/ Ivanhoe $385-$505 588-3039
1 BED ROOM AVAILABLE NOW 4065 Burbank. $495. 978-1649. $300 Deposit. Near Walk-Ons www.lsubr. com for pics and floorplans. No Pets
Roommate needed for 2 bedroom townhome. Grad student preferred. Room includes private full bathroom. Living area is fully furnished. Private covered parking. $400/month and half of utilities. 225.603.8824
apts to rent 3030 congress blvd(off Perkins, multiple flats and townhouses recently renovated, no pets, 1 month rent, 1 month security, maxpro 268-0801(Mon-Fri)
ROOMATE to SHARE CONDO Male Roommate to Share 2BR/2BTH furnished condo-Brightside Estates-w/grad student. W/D, CBL/ UTIL/INTERNET paid. $500/ month. Prefer student. No pets. dober_mann@msn.com 225.588.9409
specials now available Arlington Trace, Summer Grove & Lake Beau Pre Townhomes! 2 & 3 Bedroom Floorplans
Room in good house. W&D, alarm, etc. No lease needed. $395. Util, cable TV and Internet include. $250 dep. 225.921.1209
WOULD HOPE TO ADOPT Single woman living in NY is hoping to adopt a precious baby. Lots of loving exteneded family. Expenses paid. Please call my toll free number 1-888-412-6189 ext 101. Thanks, Tracy
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The Daily Reveille
Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2010