Volume 123 · No. 1
Thursday, January 12, 2017
EST. 1887
lsunow.com
@lsureveille
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AUGUSTUS STARK / The Daily Reveille
bill
of
health
dailyreveille OBITUARY
Sorority remembers friend, sister Katie Keogh University student killed by train
International students protest potential insurance changes
BY NATALIE ANDERSON @natalie_mechell
BY KATIE GAGLIANO @katie_gagliano Neepa Kuruppu Arachchige, like hundreds of international students, stared at her screen in shock as the cost of her insurance suddenly skyrocketed in late November. Because of a proposed change to the University’s health insurance requirements, Arachchige’s private insurance options under her current provider, ISO Insurance, were reduced down to a single plan. The premium for this plan, just over $1,000 per semester, was in stark contrast to the
see INSURANCE, page 7
$1 ,0 31
School of Renewable Natural Resources Ph.D. candidate Sanjeev Joshi, pictured above, is challenging health insurance policy changes for international LSU students. His Change.org petition calls on University administration to rescind a proposed change to University health insurance requirements for international students that would result in increased costs. International University student Neepa Kuruppu Arachchige’s premium would increase from less than $300 to more than $1000 per semester. This would be an increase of more than 320 percent.
$240
BEFORE POLICY CHANGE
AFTER POLICY CHANGE
University student Katie Keogh, a psychology sophomore, died Jan. 9 after being hit by a train in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. She was a member of the Louisiana Beta Chapter of Pi Beta Phi Fraternity for Women and attended St. Joseph’s Academy in Baton Rouge. Keogh, 20, was reportedly walking with several others in the 1400 block of 10th Avenue “when they attempted to beat a Norfolk Southern train.” She was pronounced dead on the scene, despite medical personnel’s CPR attempts. Madelaine Denenea, the University’s Pi Beta Phi Fraternity for Women chapter president, shared a statement on behalf of the chapter. The statement included its sentiment to Keogh by saying, “Katie was one of the most genuine people we have known and cared for others unconditionally.” “She always made you feel like someone was listening, whether it be a lifelong friend or someone she had met five minutes ago,” the
see KEOGH, page 7
STUDENT UNION
Dorm Room Kutz moves into former Union Barbershop space Popular shop relocates from Nicholson location BY TAYLOR DELPIDIO @TD_Reveille After closing its doors in October 2015, the LSU Student Union Barbershop is back and under new management. Moving from their previous location at 4225 Nicholson Drive, local legend Jamel Bowser and his shop Dorm Room Kutz now occupy the space. Bowser said he considers this a dream come true. “I always wondered if I would know what it’s like to live out my dream, and now I know,” Bowser said. “It’s amazing.”
He said the move made sense because his clientele was already mostly University students. However, the move was not without hiccups. In anticipation of the move, Bowser posted to GoFundMe to help cover the costs of moving. Among other things, some of the clients’ help made the transition smooth enough for him to take it down. In an email, Assistant Vice President of Auxiliary Services Margot Carroll said Dorm Room Kutz moved into the space on Dec. 1. “We are very excited to offer these services to the LSU community,” Carroll said.
see DORM ROOM KUTZ, page 7
photos by ZILIN LI / The Daily Reveille
Dorm Room Kutz barber Devan Lang [left] trims a client’s hair Jan. 9 in the Student Union. Dorm Room Kutz barbershop moved into the Student Union on Dec. 1.
page 2
Thursday, January 12, 2017 B-16 Hodges Hall Louisiana State University Baton Rouge, La. 70803 Newsroom (225) 578-4811
Advertising (225) 578-6090
Editor in Chief ROSE VELAZQUEZ Managing Editor APRIL AHMED
in this
ISSUE
Check it Out
page 8
KATE ROY / The Daily Reveille
Deputy News Editor LAUREN HEFFKER Sports Editor JOSHUA THORNTON
4
Entertainment Editor ALLIE COBB
LSU Libraries released its top 10 most used e-books
Feel the Heat
Opinion Editor ANJANA NAIR Production Editor RAMSINA ODISHO
8
Read the intense workout LSU athletes go through off campus
Back to School
Deputy Production Editor TAYLOR WILEY Photo Editor ZOE GEAUTHREAUX
12
Deputy Photo Editor HASKELL WHITTINGTON
See what your classmates were up to on the first day of the spring semester
Player to Painter
CORRECTIONS & CLARIFICATIONS
14
The Daily Reveille holds accuracy and objectivity at the highest priority and wants to reassure its readers the reporting and content of the paper meets these standards. This space is reserved to recognize and correct any mistakes that may have been printed in The Daily Reveille. If you would like something corrected or clarified, please contact the editor at (225) 5784811 or e-mail editor@lsureveille.com.
University student David Losavio transforms his inspirations into colorful creations
Rev Ranks
News Editor WILLIAM TAYLOR POTTER
16
ABOUT THE DAILY REVEILLE
Check out our entertainment writers’ takes on the newest releases page 14
courtesy of DAVID LOSAVIO
page 12
JORDAN MARCELL / The Daily Reveille
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 of the Office of Student Media within the Manship School of Mass Communication. A single issue of The Daily Reveille is free. To purchase additional copies, please visit the Office of Student Media in B-39 Hodges Hall. The Daily Reveille is published weekly during the fall, spring, and summer semesters, except during holidays and final exams. Second-class 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.
News
page 3 FACULTY photo courtesy of DIG BATON ROUGE
BY KATIE GAGLIANO @katie_gagliano
STRUCK DOWN
Judge’s ruling striking down governor’s executive order could affect University community
2016
NBA All-Star Game moves from Charlotte, North Carolina, to New Orleans after the North Carolina “Bathroom Bill”
Judge Todd Hernandez struck down Edwards’ executive order
July 22
Dec. 14
April 13
Oct. 20
Edwards releases a statement after Attorney General Jeff Landry filed his lawsuit, calling the suit “baffling, though not surprising”
Gov. John Bel Edwards signs Non-Discrimination Executive Order and rescinds Marriage and Conscience Executive Order
2017
BY LAUREN HEFFKER | @laurheffker A district court judge’s December ruling striking down Democratic Gov. John Bel Edwards’s executive order prohibiting workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity may have further repercussions for LGBTQ University students and faculty. On Dec. 14, 19th Judicial District Court Judge Todd Hernandez, a Republican, struck down the order on state constitutional grounds in favor of Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry. In his
ruling, Hernandez wrote, “Executive Order JBE 16-11 extends beyond lawful parameters of executive order authority and its adoption and implementation is found to be either a creation of new law and/or an expansion of existing state law.” Edwards’ executive order specifically guarantees workplace protections for state employees and private contractors with state entities. Immediately after the ruling,
Edwards announced his intentions to appeal the “erroneous decision” at the First Circuit Court of Appeal in Baton Rouge. Because LSU is a public university under the Legislature and receives state funding, faculty are among those who could be affected by the executive order’s. The University has a policy of inclusion, Vice Provost of Diversity Dereck Rovaris said. “This is something we have, as an institution, made a commitment to,” he
see LGBTQ, page 18
William Cefalu named to ADA post
On Jan. 10, the American Diabetes Association announced Dr. William Cefalu, the executive director of Pennington Biomedical Research Center, as its next chief scientific and medical officer. Matt Petersen, the ADA’s managing director of professional engagement, said the association is thrilled to welcome Cefalu. Peterson described Cefalu as the whole nine yards, understanding both the clinical and basic science aspects of the broad field of diabetes research. Cefalu is well-known and respected in the field, Petersen said. He has worked with the ADA for nearly two decades and served as the editor in chief of the ADA journal “Diabetes Care,” the highestranked peer-reviewed journal in the field of diabetes. Cefalu’s considerable understanding of the disease’s expansiveness will be crucial when lobbying policy makers for increased support in Washington D.C. Diabetes is the most prevalent disease with the least amount of funding coming from the federal level, Petersen said. Diabetes has been growing at an epidemic rate, with nearly 30 million Americans currently diagnosed and more receiving diagnoses each day. The disease is especially prominent in Louisiana. According to information
see PENNINGTON page 18
BATON ROUGE COMMUNITY
Bike-friendly downtown pathway completes phase one
BY HANNAH VENERELLA @hannahvenerella Phase one of the Downtown Greenway — a pathway that will ultimately stretch almost three miles to connect recreational facilities, neighborhoods, cultural attractions and over seven of Baton Rouge’s public parks — opened to the public Dec. 27. Former Mayor-President Melvin L. “Kip” Holden cut the last ribbon of his 12-year term at the ribbon cutting ceremony of phase one of the Downtown Greenway, which consists of the North Boulevard Promenade section that will eventually stretch from the Mississippi River to City Park. The historic live oak trees
that line the path light up at night, illuminating the trail that features exercise stations, benches, water fountains and eventually recycling bins. Flowers will bloom in the spring and sculptures will be added for a touch of local cultural artwork. The next phase of the Downtown Greenway will prove to be more challenging because it crosses over to Government Street, said Davis Rhorer, executive director of the Downtown Development District. This phase, which is waiting for environmental approval to start construction, will connect North Boulevard to East Boulevard all the way to Expressway Park. The 2.75 mile greenway, which will link North
Boulevard Town Square to the Expressway Park, will probably be completed by the end of this year, Rhorer said. Only weeks into phase one’s completion, the pathway bustles with bicyclists, joggers and employees who seek peace of mind. The pathway is convenient for grabbing lunch downtown, and it is really peaceful, said Natalie Mault Mead, director of education and curator at the Old Governor’s Mansion. Bike-riders find solace in the pathway and are ecstatic that Baton Rouge has taken the initiative to become more bike-friendly over the years. The University is among a
see GREENWAY page 18
AUGUSTUS STARK / The Daily Reveille
Bike enthusiast and former University professor Bob Brumberger displays his bike on Jan. 10 before he rides down the Downtown Greenway located on North Boulevard.
page 4
Thursday, January 12, 2017
CHECK IT
OUT
A list of the most checked out e-books through LSU Libraries from the 2016 fiscal year BY KATHERINE ROBERTS | @krobe844 Since LSU Libraries implemented e-books as a resource, the number of students using these online books continuously increased. From 2015 to 2016, e-book usage increased 35 percent, following an 87 percent increase the fiscal year before. Director of Library Communications and Publications
Sigrid Kelsey said most of these e-books allow more than one person to use them at once, and most of the e-books can also be printed or downloaded for free. Kelsey said the e-books are more popular and are used more than the print books. Here’s a list of the top ten most checked out e-books from last year.
Film Studies: An Introduction
11,769
11,912
GROVE MUSIC
ONLINE
SECOND EDITION
10,233
11,591
22,151 PETROLEUM PRODUCTION SYSTEMS,
9,238
Safety & Industrial Hygiene
GENERAL ENGINEERING & PROJECT ADMINISTRATION
Principles and Practices of Interconnection Networks
21,687
ORDINARY DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS
Applied Petroleum Reservoir Engineering, Third Edition
OIL & GAS ENGINEERING
MOST CHECKED OUT E-BOOKS OF 2016
HANDBOOK OF DA MAGE MECHANICS
33,485
41,026
42,259
CAMPUS CRIME BRIEFS
Non-student arrested for felony theft Arrests made for simple battery, disturbing peace
A 25-year-old non-student was arrested in relation to a theft that occurred in October at the UREC basketball court, LSUPD spokesperson Lt. Kevin Scott said. According to Scott, LSUPD retrieved Denzel Kelson from the custody of the Ascension Parish
Sheriff’s Office on Jan. 6. After LSUPD obtained an arrest warrant, they arrested Kelson for the theft of a backpack and other items in the backpack, Scott said. The incident took place on Oct. 27 near the UREC basketball court area, according to Scott.
Scott said the total value of the backpack and its contents were reported to be $955. The majority of the value came from the victim’s phone inside the backpack, he said. Kelson was booked into East Baton Rouge Parish Prison for felony theft.
25-year-old arrested for criminal trespassing in Administration Building A 25-year-old non-student was arrested after reportedly trespassing in the University’s Administration Building, LSUPD spokesperson Lt. Kevin Scott said. According to Scott, LSUPD
responded to a suspicious person report on Jan. 9 at 4 p.m. Responding officers learned that the suspicious person who visited the facility, Joshua Davis previously trespassed on campus
property, Scott said. Davis later arrived at LSUPD Headquarters and was arrested for criminal trespassing. He was booked into East Baton Rouge Parish Prison.
LSUPD spokesperson Lt. Kevin Scott said a University student was arrested for simple battery after he and two juvenile suspects threw objects from an SUV at multiple female victims. According to Scott, LSUPD responded to West Lakeshore Drive where three female victims were reportedly struck by several objects on Jan. 7 at 5 p.m.. The occupants of the vehicle reportedly drove by several times and yelled obscenities at the victims, Scott said. The three victims were able to provide a license plate
number and vehicle description to LSUPD, Scott said. From the information given by the victims, LSUPD made contact with 20-year-old University student Jonathan James, Scott said. James subsequently reported to LSUPD Headquarters, according to Scott. He was arrested for simple battery, disturbing the peace and contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile. The two juveniles were also taken into custody and later released to concerned adults with related charges, Scott said. No injuries were reported from the incident, according to Scott.
page 5
Thursday, January 12, 2017 RESEARCH
Manship School details achievements in annual report BY SCOTT GRISWOLD @griswold_ii The University’s Manship School of Mass Communication released its 201516 report which included updates on various ongoing research projects, a letter from Dean Jerry Ceppos and awards for various students, graduates and faculty of the Manship School. The Newspaper and Online News Division of the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication named professor Jay Shelledy 2016 Educator of the Year. AEJMC, the nation’s largest organization of journalism professors, presented Shelledy with the award at its annual
conference in Minneapolis in August, according to the Manship School’s report. “You saw how proud we were of it,” Ceppos said, pointing to Shelledy’s name on the cover of the report. “I think it’s recognition that he’s a very special person, and we’re that right in thinking that he’s special. The sort of legendary status he’s built up over the years is just remarkable.” Shelledy heads multiple journalism projects at the University, including the Civil Rights Era Cold Case Murders Project and the Wrongful Conviction Project. Both projects involve digging deeper into court cases of the past which had concluded with incorrect sentences. Shelledy said he believes
his journalistic projects are what pushed him to win the award. “If you’re talking about what this person is doing, you’ve got three bright shiny objects. I suppose that got their interest,” Shelledy said about AEJMC. “It’s really nice for the school to get [the award].” The Civil Rights Era Cold Cases Project is a Manship School effort to bring closure to unsolved Civil Rights-era, Ku Klux Klan-related homicides in Louisiana and southern Mississippi, according to the LSU Cold Case Project website. The project was created after a law was passed which allowed the FBI to investigate about 100 racial murders from the civil rights era.
Manship students have been investigating a number of these previously unsolved cases since 2010. According to the Civil Rights Cold Cases Project website,“to date, every civil rights murder case that has been reopened and successfully prosecuted was the direct result of an investigation initiated by a journalist. The greater goal and ultimate hope of the project is that the stories we tell, even about cases that can no longer be prosecuted, will bring reconciliation for individuals, for communities and for the nation.” Other award winners announced in the report included JoLena Broussard who won the Ruth Edelman Public Relations Student So-
BRITTAIN
SHELLEDY
ciety of America Award for Achievement in Women’s Leadership Development. The report also featured Amy Brittain. She is on the Washington Post staff, which was recently recognized with a Pulitzer Prize for “its revelatory initiative in creating and using a national database to illustrate how often and why the police shoot to kill and who the victims are most likely to be,” according to the Manship report.
STUDENT LIFE
Vice Provost Dereck Rovaris addresses diversity plans for 2017 BY DENA WINEGEART @DenaWinegeart
of students. Rovaris said he wanted to remind University students these Despite 2016 being riddled areas on campus are there for with controversy, particularly support, not shelter. “It’s not a bunker, It’s not a regarding diversity issues, Vice Provost for Diversity Dereck place where you can go and hide,” Rovaris reflected on 2016 and Rovaris said. Rovaris reflected positively on previewed 2017 with optimism for new events and resources previous years positively when students took University issues into becoming available to students. In November, students gath- their own hands to make impactful ered on multiple occasions to react change around campus. A primary to the election of Donald Trump example, Rovaris said, was when and to prepare for what the next students recently suggested that four years may look like for under- the University work to create represented groups. Rovaris said, gender neutral bathrooms on campus after a Studuring this “We have to dent Government time, the Office resolution passed of Diversity let acknowledge that in October 2015 students gather and react as a history and then move regarding this isRovaris said community as forward, and that’s sue. the faculty in the they felt necessary, with little what I think the King Office of Diversity faculty is ali nvolvement celebration does.” ways available to from the facassist students in ulty. DERECK ROVARIS navigating how to After the Vice Provost for Diversity make similar imelection, the pactful changes at Black Student the University. Union and the “I have been encouraged by NAACP at LSU organized a protest in the Quad to tell students Student Government’s willingness to roll up their sleeves and say, that their voices matter. Rovaris said while 2016 ‘Let’s see if we can make some was a rough year, the Office of changes,” Rovaris said. Rovaris also said a “wellDiversity has high hopes for 2017, with plans to advance its ultimate known” individual will be coming goal of ensuring that the Univer- to speak on campus. He hinted sity is a place where everyone can that when he started at the University in 2014, there was concome to succeed. To help students succeed, the troversy surrounding this indiOffice of Diversity has launched vidual and that now they are a initiatives to create “safe spaces” welcomed speaker in the upcoming around campus where faculty semester. With Martin Luther King Jr. members are trained to listen to and understand the struggles Day approaching, Rovaris said students may be going through. that now is an important time to These areas are usually in fac- reflect on our history not just as a ulty offices and are marked nation, but as a University. Rovaby “LSU Safe Space” stickers. ris said, “We have to acknowledge Rovaris noted there are plans that history and then move forto extend training to more fac- ward, and that’s what I think the ulty in order to meet the needs King celebration does.”
[ABOVE] Theodore “TJ” Davis speaks during the protest on Nov. 10 in the Quad. [BELOW] Destinee Merida speaks during a protest on Nov. 10 in the Quad.
LSU Faculty Statement
IN SUPPORT OF OUR STUDENTS We, as individual faculty members, reaffirm our support for all our students and alumni who may be feeling vulnerable and unsafe at this uncertain time in our nation. Throughout the 2016 election season, and in the weeks since November 8th, there has been an increase in verbal and physical threats, harassment, and assaults directed at LGBTQIA people, women, Muslims and Arab-Americans, Jewish people, Black people, Indigenous people, Mexicans, Latinx, immigrant communities, and people with disabilities.* Many of us have heard first-hand of incidents affecting our students in and around Baton Rouge, especially LGBTQIA students and students of color. We also acknowledge that all identities are intersectional, and that prejudice against one perceived minority easily feeds into prejudices against others. As practitioners and scholars of conscience, we are compelled to speak out against any acts of intolerance, bigotry, or abuse. For us, this is bigger than any political campaign; confronting hate should not be a partisan issue. Thus, we pledge to use our collective energies to push back against the climate of fear, homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, ableism, racism, xenophobia, Islamophobia, anti-Semitism, and anti-intellectualism that some have felt newly empowered to express in the context of the election. We pledge to do our best to provide alternatives to exclusion and reaction by exposing myths and lies through our research and writing, promoting critical inquiry in our classrooms, and building bridges of unity and understanding through service to the campus community.
To all of our students, please know that we support you.
* In the ten days following the election, for example, the Southern Poverty Law Center documented 867 acts of harassment and intimidation aimed at minority individuals.
https://www.splcenter.org/20161129/ten-days-after-harassment-and-intimidation-aftermath-election
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page 7
Thursday, January 12, 2017 notified of the policy requirements in August, at which time roughly $240 per semester she the information was expected to was accustomed to paying, she be promulgated to students. said. Massé said she’s uncerGiven her modest financial tain where the slip-up in comstipend as a teaching assistant, munication occurred, but that administrators the chemistry Ph.D. candidate unfortunately was distraught over the new pol- can lose sight of the humans aficy’s blow to her financial stabil- fected when paperwork changes ity. For the healthy 28-year-old, are involved. paying more than three times Once aware of the situation, her usual rate for an expanded Koubek and President F. King health insurance plan seemed Alexander worked swiftly to unrealistic, she said. protect the students, Massé said. Arachchige felt painted into a The policy change has been corner. rolled back for the spring, and She, like many international international students have been students, sought out private in- allowed to maintain their current surance as an affordable alter- policies for the time being. Funative to the University’s more ture changes are likely inevitaexpensive plan. Though the Uni- ble, Massé said, but administraversity’s expanded plan provided tors are working to reconcile the great coverage, Arachchige said needs of graduate students while she didn’t want to pay for some- ensuring minimum insurance thing she likely requirements “These are adults are met. wouldn’t use. When the In the past, the who have to pay changes were imUniversity has alplemented, Arach- their rent, buy their lowed students to chige realized she subpar groceries, but who purchase may be forced plans that did not to. In response to also must have health meet minimum the University’s international insurance.” amended coverstudent requireage requirements, ments in order to MICHELLE MASSÉ private insurance minimize their Graduate School Dean providers, like personal expenses, she said. This ISO Insurance, increased premiums and re- has worked for many students, duced policy options to meet the but in the case of an unforeseen University’s new standards. medical emergency, students Instead of being an afford- would be left liable for the fees able alternative, the private their policies did not cover. plans were now as expensive as It’s unconscionable to leave the University’s policy, she said. students vulnerable, Massé said. “It’s like there are no op“If suddenly you have appentions,” Arachchige said. “LSU dicitis, a detached retina, a probis forcing us to get whatever lem pregnancy and you have a they offer.” policy that will leave you on the For some students, the choice hook for $7,000 or $8,000, then was even more pointed. all of a sudden you realize that Sanjeev Joshi, a Ph.D. can- your policy that was a great savdidate in the School of Renew- ings is no savings at all,” Massé able Natural Resources, said said. his insurance policy through Massé, Lee and other key Insurance for Students would administrators will be meeting have been voided under the ex- throughout the spring semester panded coverage requirements. to explore the best possible opSuddenly left without insurance, tions for the University’s insurJoshi would have been forced ance requirements and potential to either scramble for a new alternatives. She said they may policy or purchase care through consider identifying private the University. policies that meet the minimum Joshi decided to speak out international criteria, among and started a petition through other options. Change.org calling on UniverRegardless of the changes sity administrators to rescind that are ultimately made, Massé the changes. To date, the petition said effective and timely communication of the University’s has over 640 signatures. Many others, Joshi and intentions and the potential cost Arachchige included, spoke to students will be crucial for with Graduate School Dean students to plan and appropriMichelle Massé and Provost ately budget. Ensuring graduRichard Koubek about their ate students are kept abreast concerns and opposition to the of changes and involved in the policy change. conversation is a top priority, Massé said her meeting with Massé said. She said it’ll likely take time the students was the first time the policy change’s implemen- to establish a policy everyone tation had been brought to her can agree on. Until then, it’s attention, and she was alarmed crucial that concerned students by the University’s poor com- continue to speak up. munication. Massé served on “We’re going to need those the University committee re- groups of students who are sponsible for the policy sugges- concerned to continue to artions, but was not involved in the ticulate those concerns, and to implementation. remind us that these are adults Matt Lee, vice provost of who have to pay their rent, buy Academic Programs and Sup- their groceries, but who also port Services, said the Univer- must have health insurance,” sity’s administrative units were she said.
INSURANCE, from page 1
DORM ROOM KUTZ, from page 1 Dorm Room Kutz offers a variety of services including basic haircuts, coloring, braiding, sew-ins and makeup. The shop offers services for male, female and youth clientele. Bowser said the highlight of the move is that they hired stylists for the new location to offer expanded services for women. “LSU is more than half female,” Bowser said. “So we wanted to have people to cater to that part of the student body that we didn’t have at my other shop.” Stylist Ragan Mays said they can accommodate anyone, regardless of hair type or style. The basic haircut costs $25, but Bowser said he is offering a $5 discount for all University students, faculty and staff. Reception to the shop has been positive so far, Bowser said. “Most people are glad that we’re here,” Bowser said. “A lot of people are happy that the barbershop is open, period.” Bowser also said he is bringing back the fan-favorite signature wall from the original location but has yet to pick a spot for it. Bowser credits a group of University students from 2015 for getting the shop off the ground. Without their help, all of this would not be possible, he said. The shop is open from 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, and by appointment only on Sundays.
ZILIN LI / The Daily Reveille
Barber Brandon Davillier cuts hair for a client Jan. 9 at Dorm Room Kutz in the Student Union.
photos by ZILIN LI / The Daily Reveille
Dorm Room Kutz relocated to the first-floor space that housed the Student Union Barbershop until 2015.
KEOGH, from page 1 statement said. The statement said Katie will be profoundly missed and remembered especially for her radiant energy and outgoing personality. It said she was the kind of person who was easy to love. Keogh is also being remembered by her friends via social
media. The national Pi Beta Phi Facebook page shared a post on Keogh on Tuesday. “Pi Beta Phi is saddened to share Louisiana Beta Katie Keogh was killed in an accident late last night. Katie was a sophomore majoring in psychology at LSU. Her sisters remember her as one of the most genuine people they have known. She is also
remembered for her radiant and outgoing personality. Katie cared about people unconditionally. Everyone who knew her loved her, and she will be profoundly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with Katie’s family and with the sisters of Louisiana Beta as they go through this very difficult time,” the statement read.
Sports
page 8
SEC no longer dominant conference CAL’D UP CHRIS CALDARERA @caldarera11
KATE ROY / The Daily Reveille
FEEL THE HEAT BY HANNAH MCDUFFIE | @hannahmcduffie_
Local Yoglates II studio services community, LSU athletes Inside Susan Marchand and Lorilin Braymer’s 90-degree hot yoga studio, they each guide LSU athletes through different poses working every aspect of the athletes’ bodies. One hour of a Yoglates II class is equivalent to an hour of cardio, stretching and weight lifting. “Once you start doing the classes, you get addicted.” Marchand said. Yoglates II , which is located off Perkins Road next to Juban’s restaurant, is a local fitness center that incorporates yoga, pilates and calisthenics in a large gym studio with the temperature set at 90 degrees.
“We have the temperature hot because it elevates the heart rate and makes the muscles more flexible, thereby reducing the chance of injury,” Braymer said. Braymer, the original owner of Yoglates II, built a relationship with the LSU Athletic Department 10 years ago, and Braymer and Marchand both cheered at LSU. For the last 10 years, she and Marchand have been helping athletes improve different skills that can help them in their careers. “For us to be able to train and work with the athletes and the LSU Athletic Department is an honor and
see YOGA, page 19
For nearly a decade, the Southeastern Conference has been the superior college football conference in the United States. That’s not just the sweet tea talking; that’s a fact. Beginning with Florida’s title in 2006, SEC teams netted seven national championships in a row and appeared in the championship game for eight-straight years. Elite conferences not only win titles but also have multiple teams capable of playing at a championship level in a given season. If anyone doubts that the SEC checked that box, one would only have to look as far as the 2011 championship which pitted LSU against Alabama. However, the South’s dominance of college football was nonexistent in 2016, and it’s clear the SEC is no longer head and shoulders above the other conferences. Cue the salty tears from listeners of The Paul Finebaum Show. The SEC was notorious for having multiple teams finish a football season with 11 wins. This year only one of its teams finished with more than 10 wins, whereas the rest of the “power five” conferences had numerous 10- and 11-win teams.
see SEC, page 19
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
LSU looks to continue win streak against Missouri, South Carolina BY JBRIAAN JOHNSON @JBriaan_Johnson Through 16 games this season, LSU’s women’s basketball team has already eclipsed its win total from last season. The Lady Tigers (13-3, 2-1 Southeastern Conference) will look to carry that momentum in their upcoming games against Missouri on Jan. 12 and South Carolina on Jan. 15. LSU has also won nine of its last 10 games, and Coach Nikki Fargas said being healthy has been a key for the team this season. “Last year, we had one sub,” Fargas said. “I like the fact we can go deep in our bench. It allows
us to really go at our opponents. Everybody is doing their part, and when you can get 10 players with 10 or more minutes, it gives you different lineups, it gives you different game planning where you can go bigger and quicker and play with a smaller lineup and play a little small ball.” The Lady Tigers are already one win away from tying their total number of SEC wins from last year as they enter their fourth conference game. After dropping the first conference game on the road to No. 4 Mississippi State, the Lady Tigers bounced back with victories at home against the Florida Gators and a come-from-behind win to defeat Arkansas in Fayetteville.
As of late, LSU has been riding the hot hand of sophomore guard Chloe Jackson. Over the past four games, Jackson has averaged 22.5 points per game, including a 34-point explosion against Florida. “Shots were falling,” Jackson said. “Everything was just going my way which was great and my team needed it. I was just happy I could do that for my team.” Junior guard Raigyne Moncrief expressed the intensity Jackson has played recently. “She’s just being aggressive,” Moncrief said. “We all know what Chloe can do. She’s a great shooter and she can attack the basket. We
see STREAK, page 19
RYAN MCCARBLE / The Daily Reveille
LSU sophomore guard Chloe Jackson (0) shoots a three-pointer during the Tigers’ 76-53 loss against the UConn Huskies on Nov. 20 in the PMAC.
page 9
Thursday, January 12, 2017 GYMNASTICS
Seniors look to finish career strong, focus on leadership BY KENNEDI LANDRY @@landryyy14 LSU’s senior gymnasts have seen the highs and lows of the gym program. From two Super Six appearances and multiple Southeastern Conference honors, seniors Ashleigh Gnat, Sydney Ewing and Shae Zamardi are hoping to achieve more. “I think that we positioned ourselves last year perfectly,” Gnat said. “Obviously, there’s more that can be done. It just really depends on how the cards play out, how other teams are doing, how the scores go and things like that.” After the excitement of coming in second place at the 2016 National Championship wore off, the team realized they wanted more: To be first. It showed in LSU’s first meet against then-No. 9 ranked Georgia where the Tigers posted a recording setting 197.825 season-opening score. Last season’s finish has been a huge motivator for LSU during the preseason and starting off this season with confidence. Ewing explained that there are always imperfections that can be worked on and small errors that can be fixed.
“Its funny because gymnastics is one of those sports where there’s always something to get better at, even though we did so well,” Ewing said. “Just staying together and attempting to maintain our energy and our confidence is most important going into this next meet.” Just as important as improving their gymnastics is the overall attitude of the team. Being a supportive teammate and keeping a positive attitude contributes to the team, Ewing said. Unifying the team completely has been a major goal in the preseason, Gnat said. Being loose and free of anxiety and having fun is something the team aims to practice a lot more this season. Gnat said everyone competes best when they are enjoying themselves. Leadership from the upperclassmen is key for such a “talented” team, Gnat said. “The team is so talented, so really it’s more about characteristics things, not so much about gymnastics,” Gnat said. The mix of newcomers and veterans in the lineup adds depth to the lineup this season. Coach D-D Breaux said it is good to have fresh energy and a little bit of naivety on the team,
but it is necessary to have those gymnasts who have the experience as well. “You just need some talent,” Breaux said. “But you also need kids that are pretty tenacious and are passionate about the sport and LSU and what we’re trying to accomplish here. I think we’ve put together a pretty good group.” Veteran team members
have worked hard to get the freshmen accustomed to the atmosphere and getting them to trust them and the coaching staff, Gnat said. Freshmen, such as all-arounder Kennedi Edney, have come in and worked hard to improving the team. Continuing to support one other and focusing on the little things that need to be fixed
is going to be essential this season, Ewing said. Everyone needs to do what they can do in order to help the team succeed. “I think that individually, for myself, I really want to enjoy this last year and do the best that I can,” Gnat said. “It’s been a really, really exciting preseason. I can’t wait to see what else is going to come.”
AUGUSTUS STARK / The Daily Reveille
The Tigers celebrate during their 197.825-193.600 victory against the Georgia Bulldogs on Jan. 6 in the PMAC.
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
Jackson named SEC Player of the Week Lady Tigers heading to SEC play with healthy roster BY JOURDAN RILEY @jourdanr_TDR LSU sophomore guard Chloe Jackson is “excited” after receiving three accolades. Jackson received two Player of the Week awards Jan. 9, and another Jan. 10. Jackson earned honors from the Southeastern Conference league office, the Louisiana Sports Writers Association (LSWA), and CollegeSportsMadness.com. “[I was] pretty excited,” Jackson said. “It was a big deal. It felt good.” Jackson, who transferred from North Carolina State, sat out most of the 2015-16 season because of an injury. Now healthy and eligible, the Maryland native is averaging 28.0 points, 3.5 steals, 2.0 rebounds and 2.5 assists in LSU’s last two SEC games. Against Florida, Jackson posted a career-high 34 points in the 78-67 victory. LADY TIGERS’ SUCCESS The Lady Tigers struggled during the 2015-16 season
because of a depleted roster sophomore guard Shanice caused by player injuries. LSU Norton in ninth with 1.9. ended the season with a 10Freshman forward Ayana 21 overall record and a 3-13 Mitchell ties for tenth with 1.8 SEC finish. steals per contest. Senior forWith a healthy team, LSU is ward Alexis Hyder ties for the entering SEC play with a deeper No. 15 spot with 1.4 steals. bench for coach Nikki Fargas Hyder and Moncrief tie for which adds flexthe No. 14 spot ibility for linein SEC play with “[I was] pretty ups, Fargas said. an average of excited. It was a “It’s been 11 blocks. great to be big deal.” healthier,” FarNOT PERFECT YET gas said. “That’s Finishing defenCHLOE JACKSON been a key for sive plays heading sophomore guard us this seainto the Lady Tigers son, and that matchup against you can look at your bench Missouri is a focus for LSU this and sub people in. Last year, week, Hyder said. we had one sub. I like the fact “Sometimes, we play defense we can go deep in our bench. 25 seconds of the shot clock,” It allows us to really go at our Hyder said. “The last five secopponents.” onds we lose focus, and that creJunior guard Raigyne Mon- ates other possessions for the crief, who only started three offense.” games last season because of a With SEC play getting in knee injury, is averaging 14.6 full swing, Fargas said the points per game, good for No. 16 team is taking it one game at in the SEC. a time. Defense has been a point of “It’s critical,” Fargas said. emphasis for Fargas and the “Every game in the SEC carLady Tigers. ries a lot of weight. Even though Five Lady Tigers rank you have South Carolina and in the top-15 in steals in Kentucky who are ranked, the SEC. our Missouri game is going to Moncrief places second in be a tough game. We always the conference averaging 2.9 battle with them. They’re wellper contest. Trailing behind coached. They’re discipline. Moncrief is Jackson who is fifth They have players that can shoot with 2.1 steals per game and the three.”
RYAN MCCARBLE / The Daily Reveille
[ABOVE] LSU sophomore guard Chloe Jackson (0) resets before a play during the Lady Tigers’ 76-53 loss against the UConn Huskies on Nov. 20 in the PMAC. [BELOW] Jackson (0) dribbles the ball during the Lady Tigers’ 66-55 win against Rice on Nov. 16 in the PMAC.
page 10
Thursday, January 12, 2017
MEN’S BASKETBALL
Epps, Sims filling in void left by Craig Victor’s dismissal BY SETH NIEMAN @seth_nieman
Hours before LSU took on Southeastern Conference foe Vanderbilt on Dec. 29, sophomore forward Craig Victor II was dismissed, leaving a void in the Tigers’ starting lineup. Enter freshman Wayde Sims and junior Aaron Epps. “It’s always tough any time you lose a body like that,” coach Johnny Jones said. “Any time you have a change like that, it’s subtle, and guys have to get used to their minutes played. It’s different for our team, and it’s going to have to be a process for us.” Following the dismissal of Victor, LSU expanded the
minutes on the floor for Sims, a 6-foot-6 forward, and Epps, a 6-foot-10 forward. Sims has averaged 23.3 minutes per game since Victor’s dismissal, and Epps has averaged 19.6 minutes per game. “I feel like I had to step up, and it’s not just me; it’s everybody else on the team,” Sims said. “We all have to step up and fill the role that Craig gave us.” Fans of LSU might remember Sims for his accolades prior to committing to the Tigers. Sims played high school basketball at University High School in Baton Rouge. Because of his height, Sims said he played in the post for most of his high school career. In high school, Sims was
the 2014-15 Louisiana Gatorade Player of the Year and a First Team All-State selection. He won three state titles and averaged 21.2 points and 9.6 rebounds per game during his senior year. “I knew from recruiting that I was going to have to play in the post and at the three and the four,” Sims said. “I feel confident that I can do that for this team.” Sims has averaged 9.3 points and 6.3 rebounds per game in the three games since Victor’s dismissal. He shot 4-of-6 from beyond the arc in LSU’s 96-89 loss at home to Vanderbilt. “I just have to continue to play strong defensively and get stops,” Sims said. “When I come off the bench, I like to see where the gaps and open spots are, so
I can flash to them and get easy buckets.” Jones sees potential in the freshman’s future. “He’s [Sims] been a good threat for us all year long, and we know he’s only going to grow and continue to get better,” Jones said. “Wayde played center in high school, and that helps because he can go inside and post up against smaller players and also play effectively against bigger opponents.” Epps has started in each game since Victor’s dismissal. He has averaged 5.3 points and four rebounds per game in the three games following the dismissal and finished with 11 points while shooting 5-of-8 from the field in LSU’s 88-77 win
against Missouri. Epps has spent more minutes at center rather than power forward — something he said he can’t remember doing since last season. “I couldn’t even tell you the last time I played at the five,” Epps said. “Probably last season. When I catch the ball on the block, I just need to be patient and not force anything; just let it come to me.” Epps and Sims have spent a significant amount of time on the floor together. “I feel like it helps with moving the ball, spreading the floor out,” Epps said. “I feel like we’re both patient when we’re out there. We don’t force anything, and we like to share the ball too.”
RYAN MCCARBLE / The Daily Reveille
[RIGHT] LSU junior forward Aaron Epps (21) shoots a layup during the Tigers’ 78-70 win against North Florida on Nov. 18 in the PMAC [LEFT] LSU freshman forward Wayde Sims (44) dribbles while guarded by Mississippi State freshman center Schnider Herard (34) during the Tigers’ 95-78 loss to the Bulldogs on Jan. 7 in the PMAC. GYMNASTICS
No. 1 LSU prepares for top five matchup against No. 4 Alabama BY KENNEDI LANDRY @landryyy14 With another meet against a top-ranked opponent, No. 1 LSU is looking to continue improving in its upcoming matchup against No. 4 Alabama. LSU dominated in its home opener against Southeastern Conference opponent Georgia on Jan. 6 with a record breaking score of 197.825, which propelled the Tigers to No. 1 in the country. Amid the excitement, the team is focused on not letting this affect the way they compete. “It was really exciting just waking up being like ‘Oh, we’re No. 1,’” senior all-arounder Ashleigh Gnat said. “It’s cool but it’s something that we can’t buy into as a team. We have to be focused on us and what we’re doing.” A big part of competing is remembering it is about more than just the team on the other side of the arena, LSU coach
D-D Breaux said. She reminds the team they are competing against everyone, and they cannot be affected by the people on the floor. Despite a strong opening meet, the key is consistency and self confidence, Breaux said. One person having energy and aggression creates a “benchmark performance” that motivates the rest of the team. “The thing that really catapulted us and gave us the emphasis to move forward with a lot of confidence and aggression was Julianna [Cannamela] coming right out of the shoot doing a beautiful vault,” Breaux said. “She vaulted as well Friday night as she did ending our season last year at the national championships.” Heading into the meet, LSU is ranked No. 1 on beam and vault, as well as No. 2 on floor and bars in the country. Alabama junior Kiana Winston is ranked No. 1 in the nation on beam, and LSU freshman
Kennedi Edney sits No. 1 on vault while senior Gnat sits No. 1 on floor. Alabama is coming into the meet after losing 197.750-196.700 to then-No. 1 ranked Oklahoma in its season opener. LSU faced Alabama in the PMAC last season in a 197.925196.225 win. “It is a little bit different when we compete on the road because it is Alabama,” senior all-arounder Sydney Ewing said. “It’s their fans, but if we go in there and just stay together and keep our energy high, we can use their crowd to our advantage in a way.” The team’s objective is to “Beat Bama,” but to also remember that this is just the next meet and, hopefully, the next victory, Breaux said. “The main thing is we want to win,” she said. “We want to walk out there with a victory. We want our to team to feel very good about the pursuit and the process in what we’re doing.”
THE DAILY REVEILLE ARCHIVES
LSU associate head coach Jay Clark talks to the gymnastics team during the Tigers’ 197.4500 score for the second place in the National Championship April 16 in Dallas Fort Worth.
page 11
Thursday, January 12, 2017
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page 12
Thursday, January 12, 2017 Kinesiology and fitness studies junior Clyde Thomas and nutrition and food science sophomore Mary Legendre prepare to suspend hammocks on Jan. 11 in the Quad.
Architecture grad student Missy Alf walks through the Quad on Jan. 11 during a break between her classes.
Childhood and family studies freshman Scott Streitelmeier enjoys the company of Wendi, a puppy, on Jan. 11 in the Quad.
BACK TO SCHOOL
Mass communication junior Jaci Pinell reads a novel on Jan. 11 just outside of Hodges Hall.
Students make themselves at home on campus during the first day of spring classes photos by JORDAN MARCELL / The Daily Reveille
Environmental engineering senior Lauren Featherston enjoys a book during her break on the first day of classes on Jan. 11 in the Quad.
page 13
Thursday, January 12, 2017
k-street photos by RYAN MCCARBLE / The Daily Reveille
Recently opened restaurant Kalurah Street Grill offers a mix of regional and international flavors, bringing a new casual dining experience to the Perkins overpass
The Seared Scallop dish has been Kalurah Street Grill’s best selling entrÊe since opening its doors on Jan. 6.
Entertainment
P L AY E R TO
PAINTER
University student uses pop art as creative outlet, stress relief
page 14
photos courtesy of DAVID LOSAVIO
BY CORRINE PRITCHETT @corrineellen University information systems and decision sciences student and artist David Losavio, also known as DLo, was born and raised in Baton Rouge. Losavio comes from a family of eight siblings and has been a Tigers fan since he was a child. With five siblings who are already University alumni, LSU has always been his ideal school to pursue his education. “I’ve been brainwashed to love LSU football since I can remember,” Losavio said.
see POP ART, page 15
ART
Pop-surrealist art exhibition on display at Baton Rouge Gallery Surreal Salon 9 runs until Jan. 26 BY ABBY KING @abbby_marieee Baton Rouge Gallery opened Surreal Salon 9, an annual art exhibition highlighting the pop-surrealist/ lowbrow movement in American Contemporary art, on Jan. 4. The exhibit will be on display until Jan. 26. Although 700 works from 300 artists were considered for this year’s exhibition, the gallery chose to feature 63 works from 58 artists. Although the chosen artists come from
26 different states, they are all coming together in Baton Rouge for a celebration of the talent, creativity and artistry each of them brings. Alexis Stephenson is a local artist whose work will be displayed in the exhibition. Stephenson recognizes not only what the contributing artists do for the Salon, but also what the annual Surreal Salon does for the city of Baton Rouge. “Surreal Salon puts Baton Rouge Gallery on the map as a nationally recognized gallery, shining light on the brilliant collective of artists in Louisiana and in our country,” Stephenson said. “We do a lot as a city
in regards to honoring our appreciation for the arts.” The Surreal Salon is also a good platform for up-andcoming artists to gain exposure and make connections with artists from all over the country who are part of the same movement. “It’s almost like Baton Rouge is an artist’s residency in some ways because the talent really is just pouring out everywhere you turn,” Stephenson said. “Our local artists have unique and profound gifts to share, in a plethora of mediums, and they deserve to be seen, heard, appreciated
see SURREAL SALON, page 15
Respected popsurrealist artist Greg “Craola” Simkins will be a juror at this year’s Surreal Salon exhibition. Simkins is a Los Angeles-based artist known for his eccentric works such as this 2016 piece, entitled “Yellow.”
photo courtesy of GREG SIMKINS via imscared.com
page 15
Thursday, January 12, 2017 DLO, from page 14 His love for sports followed him through high school, where he narrowed his focus to baseball. He dedicated himself to being the best player he could be to achieve a spot on the University’s baseball team. Losavio’s future plans fell through when he didn’t make the team, but he soon found a new outlet for dealing with his drastic life change: painting. “I had to mentally deal with the fact that I failed to reach that goal,” Losavio said. “I couldn’t blame anyone but myself. That’s really when I put all of that energy into art. That helped me cope. Now I can’t imagine life without it.” His cousin and collaborator Jacob Zumo, or JZumo, is an artist who is a huge part of Losavio’s artistic inspiration. Zumo mentored Losavio in painting, where Losavio found his niche in the art world. Using acrylic paint on canvas, Losavio likes to portray his pop art with vibrant colors. “I want my art to speak for itself,” Losavio said. “I love the colors, and I don’t think I’ll ever fully get away from it. It makes life more visually interesting.” Andy Warhol is one of Zumo’s favorite pop artists, and his work inspires Losavio’s style as well. Losavio also looks to music, specifically hip-hop, for artistic motivation. One of Losavio’s favorite
photos courtesy of DAVID LOSAVIO
University student and artist David Losavio uses vibrant colors in his artwork, which includes portraits of New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees [above] and hiphop artist Chance the Rapper [right]. paintings he’s done depicts popular hip-hop artist Chance the Rapper. He also painted the University’s beloved Mike the Tiger and is currently working on a piece depicting LSU running back Derrius Guice.
Losavio considers painting a form of stress relief. Using art as an outlet for his frustrations gives his eye-catching pop artwork a sense of meaning that reaches beyond its appearance. His color choices ex-
Surreal Salon puts Baton Rouge Gallery on the map as a nationally recognized gallery, shining light on the brilliant collective of artists in Louisiana and in our country. ALEXIS STEPHENSON
local artist
SURREAL SALON, from page 14 and taken seriously in the art world.” Along with exposure, artists attain a sense of self-validation from being selected. Each work goes through an arduous jurying process to earn its place in the exhibition. “It’s an honor to be included in this show,” Stephenson said. “On a personal level, it’s a beautiful feeling to have my work recognized. I paint from such a vulnerable place in my soul-space, so being selected gives me a little boost of confidence and just inspires me to want to explore my work even deeper.” Each year, Surreal Salon
chooses an acclaimed juror to select the exhibition’s “Best in Show.” This year’s juror is one of today’s most respected and renowned pop-surrealist artists, Greg “Craola” Simkins. Simkins is a Los Angeles-based artist best known for his large works and eccentric imagination which he expresses through his art. “Craola’s work is gorgeously surreal and diverse. I really admire his skills as a painter, and, in my opinion, I think his artwork is pretty epic,” Stephenson said. “He definitely has the credentials. He actually chose each piece shown in this year’s show, so I’m interested in picking his brain and nerding out about the exhibition’s
Surreal Salon 9 will run at Baton Rouge Gallery Tuesday-Sunday, noon to 6 p.m. until Jan. 26
aesthetic and, of course, all things art.” The winner of the “Best in Show” award will receive an editorial and have their work featured in an upcoming issue of Juxtapoz magazine.
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press boldness and give each painting an individual touch. As introverted as he is, Losavio said, “I feel like art is my main way of communicating. There can be some positive to that. It is a stress reliever, and
I think the fact that I bottle emotions and channel them does give my art some ability to speak.” To view Losavio’s artwork, head to DavidLosavio.com or his Instagram @dl_o.
FOR RELEASE JANUARY 12, 2017
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ACROSS Water barrier Deep hole Snatch “Beware the __ of March!” Hillside Hit the ceiling Window glass Cake ingredient Kiln Slaying Gets hitched Mongrel Sup Narrow boats Coast Jesse or Buck Waterbirds Faux __; social blunder Dallas team, for short Perch Accessories for Don Ho 180˚ from WNW Singer Como Reed or Fargo __ about; tossed & flailed one’s arms Finicky By way of Castle ditch Race car driver __ Earnhardt In an odd way Element whose symbol is Fe Listened Housetop Air pollution Uncanny Positive Excessive publicity Make a smudge worse Mountain __ DOWN Short swim Eden resident List of dishes Valuables
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5 __ out; say suddenly 6 Bear living in Jellystone Park 7 Reach across 8 Army rank 9 Expansion 10 Nighttime dance party 11 Middle-__; not young & not old 12 Uncle __ Rice 14 Pulpit talks 21 Member fees 25 Pack animal 26 One of Santa’s reindeer 27 __ in; inundated by 28 Firm refusal 29 Foil or saber 30 Not difficult 31 __ up; speaks one’s feelings 32 __ cats and dogs; pours 33 Child’s school assignment 35 Feeling put out
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38 Discusses again 39 Dawdles 41 Fraternity letter 42 Boring event 44 Even the score 45 Think about 47 “Ave __” 48 Piece of china
49 Fighting force 50 Thrown for a __; confused 52 Be abundant 53 Uncommon 54 Deafening 55 Olden times 59 Some, but not many
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Thursday, January 12, 2017
REV R ANKS
‘Hidden Figures’ delivers as empowering, refreshing film BY KENNEDI WALKER @kennedi0497 I had the opportunity to see the awe-inspiring film, “Hidden Figures” on opening night. History was well represented by the marvelous acting and beautifully written script, which was developed by Theodore Melfi and Allison Schroeder. Set in 1960s Virginia, “Hidden Figures” tells the true story of three intelligent and hardworking AfricanAmerican women employed by NASA. Together these three women were the brains behind launching astronaut John Glenn into orbit and successfully turning around the space race. Katherine Johnson (Taraji P. Henson), Dorothy Vaughan (Octavia Spencer) and Mary Jackson (Janelle Monáe) were three of the smartest mathematicians and engineers to date. The movie shed light on the trio’s hardships as African-American women during the civil rights movement and their perseverance to
courtesy of 20TH CENTURY FOX
overcome adversity at home, school and work. I found it truly baffling that there were no colored restrooms in the building
Katherine Johnson had been moved to on NASA’s Langley Research Center. Every time she needed to use the restroom, she was forced to run to the
opposite side of Langley’s campus where there was a restroom she was allowed to use. This scene broke my heart
because it illustrated a bit of what all my fellow African Americans had to go through just to do something as simple as use the restroom. This movie portrayed not only the struggles African Americans had to go through during this time, but more specifically, AfricanAmerican women, who had to work much harder to prove their worth. The audience was able to see what African Americans had to endure on a daily basis, including white versus colored water fountains, sitting on the back of the bus and going through a long and grueling court process just to be allowed to take college classes at a “white” school. “Hidden Figures” is currently No. 1 in the box office and has made over $22 million dollars so far. The film was nominated for two Golden Globe Awards, two Screen Actors Guild Awards and is set to reel in big at this year’s Academy Awards. This movie was truly inspiring, touching and overall one of the best films I have ever seen.
‘Underworld: Blood Wars’ adds nothing new to old franchise BY ABBIE SHULL @Abbielj The “Underworld” saga has lost what made it great 14 years ago. The campiness of the first installment of the Kate Beckinsale-led film franchise made for distinctive and entertaining cinema. “Underworld: Blood Wars,” the fifth installment in the series, follows Selene yet again at the center of a centuries-old battle between Lycans and Vampires. She and her fellow bloodsucker David must battle not only the werewolves but also other vampires in order to defeat the Lycan leader Marius. Directed by Anna Foerster, a longtime collaborator of Roland Emmerich, “Blood Wars” has more female badassery than the previous four films because of the new roles of Semira and Lena. Foresters direction gives life to a relatively dry script by Cory Goodman, whose
dialogue is on the same level as soap opera dramas. However, nothing Forester does manages to breathe life back into the franchise. After last summer’s “Love and Friendship,” it’s rather depressing to see Kate Beckinsale’s comedic abilities continually wasted by a long dead franchise. Unfortunately, this installment brings in other world-class actors, like Charles Dance of “Game of Thrones,” and forces them to indulge in the exposition-heavy script. I can forgive the franchise and say that, if you’re a fan of “Underworld,” you’ll enjoy this film. Kate Beckinsale is still just as strong and empowering as she was in 2003, and the evolution of the Lycan characters is compelling in “Blood Wars.” But if you’re not familiar, and should find yourself curious about this decades-old saga, quickly run away in search of better films to spend your money on.
courtesy of SONY PICTURES
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Thursday, January 12, 2017
‘Divide’ could be Sheeran’s best album after year-long hiatus BY ABBY KING @abbby_marieee The new year is off to a good start for Ed Sheeran fans with the surprise release of two new singles, “Shape of You” and “Castle on the Hill” from his upcoming album “Divide.” The singles came as a peace offering to fans after Sheeran’s agonizing year-long hiatus from social media and music. Despite the ache of his absence, it’s obvious Sheeran made good use of his time off and is ready to start 2017 in full swing. With two brand new songs and the announcement of a new album, fans are finally able to justify their Ed-less year. Sheeran first teased fans when he posted a picture of a solid blue square to both his Twitter and Instagram accounts in early December. This kept fans guessing until
the first of the year when he clarified via a Twitter video that he would be releasing new music shortly. Days later he released two seven-second videos featuring lyrics from each new single, yet still no music. The final tease came Jan. 5 in the form of two more videos debuting the first ten seconds of each single, as well as a Snapchat filter where the first thirty seconds of “Shape of You” could be heard behind strobe lights and bright blue sunglasses. Both songs in their entirety were released Jan. 6, and, considering the social media frenzy that ensued, were well-received by fans. The first single, “Shape of You,” is an upbeat sure-to-be pop hit about finding love in a modern setting, with a beat that all but begs listeners to dance along.
The second, “Castle on the Hill,” is also upbeat. But in contrast to the light beat and blithe lyrics of “Shape of You,” Sheeran provides an edgier, energetic guitar anthem with the kind of intimate, nostalgic lyrics he’s known and loved for. Compared to the two softer, romantic singles “Thinking Out Loud” and “Photograph,” from “Multiply,” it seems that fans can expect “Divide” to showcase a more lively, pop-driven side of Sheeran’s artistry than previously displayed. However, that’s not to say the album will be any less successful. With a year of silence turned into a month long teaser campaign, fans are craving an album more than ever and if these two singles are any indication, it’s likely that “Divide” could be Sheeran’s best one yet.
courtesy of ATLANTIC RECORDS
‘La La Land’ offers fresh take on classic Hollywood style BY CORRINE PRITCHETT @corrineellen “La La Land” is a breathtakingly beautiful romantic musical that takes place in Los Angeles which used be referred to as La La Land. The movie has a wonderful old Hollywood feel, making it seem realistic and authentic. Emma Stone, whose character is named Mia, and Ryan Gosling, whose character is named Sebastian, share many playfully fanciful moments and channel a message of following your dreams. The main characters feel lost as they struggle to follow their ambitions and unsure of where their lives are taking them. The film begins with a beautiful musical number that could either grab the attention of viewers or leave them sitting bored in their seats. However, the movie had my attention as soon as Stone appeared with an adorable yellow dress, innocent expression and desire to express herself through song. While watching and listening to its music, it’s obvious that “La La Land” is a distinctive film. Stone plays her character Mia so
perfectly that she had audience members believing she really was a struggling actress, even though Stone is overwhelmingly successful in reality. Even as she begins to sing, viewers are so convinced of her feelings of joy mixed with sorrow that it seems fitting for her to only be able to express her feelings through song. Though convincing as a young musician, Gosling doesn’t pull at your heartstrings like Stone does from the very beginning. But his charm makes him a great partner for Stone’s character, giving the film a striking romance. Along with the chemistry between the two main characters and the breathtaking music throughout the film, “La La Land” has a classic script that nearly everyone can fall in love with. Boy meets girl, they fall in love and then suddenly they realize that falling in love doesn’t solve all of life’s problems. In this way, the classic story feels new and incredibly relatable. The look and feel of the story proves that happiness can be found in dark times, as long as you find the light. “La La Land” captivates the audience while also breaking their hearts; it’s an utterly real love story.
courtesy of FLICKR
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Thursday, January 12, 2017
PENNINGTON, from page 3
GREENWAY, from page 3
provided by the ADA, 13.9 percent of Louisiana adults, or over 520,000 people, have diabetes. Each year, another 35,000 Louisiana residents are diagnosed. A native of Louisiana and longtime diabetes researcher, Cefalu’s experience with the disease will allow him to provide powerful testimony before lawmakers, Petersen said. “He can say ‘Look, I’ve done this kind of work, and I know how big the payoff will be if we do a lot more,’” Petersen said. “This is a real opportunity for him to influence how diabetes research is funded as a whole in this country.” During his time at Pennington, Cefalu secured considerable national and international funding for chronic disease research, while personally attracting over $50 million in scientific grants and contracts for research into botanical treatments for insulin resistance, diabetes and obesity. A University alumnus, Cefalu said only an opportunity as significant as the ADA position could draw him away from the state and his work at Pennington. LSU President F. King Alexander said that though Cefalu may no longer work for the state, his efforts will be felt. “While we are sad to see Dr. Cefalu leave Pennington Biomedical, his new position with the American Diabetes Association elevates one of our state’s greatest challenges to a national focus,” Alexander said. “Louisiana citizens will benefit not only from the groundwork he has laid here at Pennington Biomedical but also from the important work he will do at the ADA.” Cefalu’s tenure will begin Feb. 20, and he will be responsible for overseeing the association’s research and professional education programs, as well as translating research into applicable information for patients and clinicians.
progressive group of colleges and universities across the United States transforming transportation on their campuses and in the communities that surround them. The flagship campus was awarded a
LGBTQ, from page 3
Legislature with LGBTQ nondiscrimination ordinances including gender identity in and sexual orientation not passing. Because people don’t understand what a transgender or nonbinary person is, fear arises in the form of prejudice and intolerance, she said. “Being lesbian, gay or bisexual has become much more widely accepted; whereas being trans or gender nonconforming is not talked about as much, so I think that people still have some wiggle room with how much they’re able to get away with as far as discrimination,” Murr said. As for the University, Murr said it’s moving “very slowly” in the right direction. While the Student Government resolution to implement gender neutral bathrooms was approved last school year, Murr said there’s still no signage. Public administration graduate student Karie Holton serves as Spectrum’s graduate project coordinator. Holton’s role is to assist LGBTQ students and work toward policy changes on campus. While most people at the
said. “I see us in some respects having to protect rights that have been well fought [for] and well earned that we shouldn’t have to go back and do, but we will. I don’t see any immediate or even down the road problems for any of our community members.” Natural resource ecology and management senior Courtney Murr is president of Spectrum – a student organization that provides resources for LGBTQ students. Invalidating this executive order sends a message telling LGBTQ students they should still have to hide who they are to get a job, she said. “I think it’s politicians saying they don’t think our rights to have a job and feel safe in our workplace are important to them. As their constituents, it’s like, who are they really trying to serve here? Are they trying to serve their constituents, or are they trying to get elected, get ahead, play the political game,” Murr said. Since she’s been in Louisiana, Murr said she’s seen a recurring theme in the
silver Bicycle Friendly University designation, making the campus one of only 164 bicycle-friendly colleges and universities across the country. Bob Brumberger, a former part-time University professor and bicycle enthusiast, said
he usually starts his journey at the Levee, winding his way through downtown, passing the State Capitol and eventually pedaling his Brompton bike toward the beginning of the greenway. The trail, which can be identified by its green paint that
marks the crossroads, has already married locals with the environment and with each other and can only unravel more gifts from here. “Downtown is full of treasures, and I think this pathway will help unbury them,” Brumberger said.
AUGUSTUS STARK / The Daily Reveille
The Downtown Greenway opened to the public Dec. 27 and runs along on North Boulevard.
University are accepting, there’s always going to be some sort of struggle, she said. Access to facilities and policy change in gender neutral bathrooms have been the largest challenges so far. While many people may not fully understand the scope of gender identity, it’s no excuse for lawmakers to not support LGBTQ legislation because of the transgender protections, Holton said. “I think at the base of it, it’s just [Attorney General Jeff] Landry hating trans people and doing whatever he can do to not have to accommodate trans people,” she said. Local LGBTQ activist and University alumni Peter Jenkins has been a leader and voice in the LGBTQ community for several years. “A lot of the students at LSU are going to go into public employment with the government, and many of us are LGBT,” Jenkins said. “Do we want to tell the most talented students ‘You’re not welcome here, and we don’t want you professionally?’” Jenkins said they’re fairly confident LGBTQ people will be
able to attain the equality that ramifications similar to those in “AG Landry is trying to prevent North Carolina. Louisiana’s ecocoming to fruition.” The major- nomic climate could suffer exity of people in Louisiana don’t treme repercussions, especially agree with denying LGBTQ peo- if similar measures are passed ple their rights, Jenkins said. within the Legislature, Holton Since North said. Carolina passed “The argument and failed to remade down here is peal House Bill that being good for 2, or the “BathLGBTQ is good for room Bill,” the business,” she said. state has lost There has been millions of dola legal precedent lars in halted building over the past business expandecade around the issions, tourism sue of sex discrimination and being industry revenue trans, Jenkins said. and canceled performances and The LGBTQ comJENKINS munity needs protecsporting events. The bill requires people to use tions across the board because bathrooms that correspond there are a number of people with the gender designated on who don’t believe that LGBTQ their birth certificate. Follow- people are actually discriminating the bill’s passage, the NBA ed against, Jenkins said. All-Star game was moved to “[John Bel Edwards’] advisNew Orleans from Charlotte, ers and [he], felt that issuing this executive order would be North Carolina. Jenkins and Holton, who are the best thing for this state, and president and vice president they were right,” Jenkins said. of the University’s LGBTQ+ “That was absolutely the right Alumni Chapter, both agree move because everyone dethat the tossing out of Execu- serves equal protections under tive Order JBE 16-11 could have the law.”
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Thursday, January 12, 2017 YOGA, from page 8 humbling,” Marchand said. “It’s humbling to know that they trust us to put the athletes in our care.” Many current LSU athletes attend classes at Yoglates II during the off season to stay in shape and improve core stability and strength. Several pro athletes who have played at LSU attend Yoglates II and train periodically. Teams and players will also get private classes to target specific areas of the body that may need rehabilitation or improvement. “All of the athletes benefit from our classes,” Marchand said. “We try to work the smaller muscle fibers, fast-twitch, slowtwitch. We really try to work their core.” Braymer’s motto “Train outside the box,” is a motto LSU athletes live by each time they walk in to Yoglates II. Marchand explained how taking the classes makes the athletes more efficient in their sports, less prone to injury and more flexible. “A lot of those kids [athletes] don’t have much time in their daily lives to stop and focus and really channel energy, rest, rehab,” Braymer said. “This one hour or 45 minute class gives them that chance to do that.” Focus and discipline is a major component for athletes and that is a trait Marchand and other instructors push. Yoglates II has over 15 instructors who all go through a written and physical exam to
earn certification to teach. Randi LSU athletes, but anyone in the Hines wanted to start teaching local community is welcome to after she attended her first Yo- join, Marchand said. The mother glates II class. of New York Giants wide receiv“The exam is exhausting but er Odell Beckham Jr. commutes well worth it,” Hines said. “We from New Orleans to participate take information home to learn in classes at Yoglates II. For any participant, there about the body and how to be encouraging to members. We also are mental and physical health learn how to build benefits, such as relationships with weight loss, immembers and cre‘For us to be able proved muscle ate a community. and a to train and work strength That’s part of full body workout. the reason I fell “When our with the athletes in love with this members come place. It was a and the LSU Athletic here, they simply home away from Department is an focus on themselves,” Braymer home while I was honor and humbling.’ said. “You don’t in college.” know what the Yoglates II person next to you works closely has been through. with the LSU SUSAN MARCHAND You don’t know gymnastics team co-owner of Yoglates II if they are reto help improve covering from a their focus. The team meets with Yoglates II in- hamstring injury or if a mothstructors weekly for a private er can do a full squat because lesson. she just had a child because “With the gymnasts, let’s say every person is focusing on they have a sore back one week, themselves.” so we tailor the routine to stretch Yoglates II also offers a disthem out a whole lot and not give counted rate for students. Stuthem a lot,” Marchand said. “We dents can pay $50 for one month, don’t want to give them any more $90 for three months or $11 per class. There are several classes back pain.” When the athletes are out of each day and students can attend season, they train with all par- as many classes as they wish. ticipants in that class. There is no contract, so particiThe relationship between Yo- pants can come as they want and glates II and the LSU Athletic pay as they go. Department started after an ath“We welcome everyone, letics employee started attend- regardless of their age or size. ing classes. She saw the benefits We want people to know that firsthand and believed that LSU you don’t have to be fit to come athletes would too. here because this is a judge-free Not only is Yoglates II for zone,” Marchand said.
four years that the ACC toppled the SEC in the national champiThese power five conferences onship game, as Florida State also demonstrated the depth that broke the south’s championship the SEC lacked. streak when it defeated Auburn Wisconsin, Oklahoma, Penn in the 2013 title game. State, Florida State and Michigan Fans of the SEC have also all could have made impressive seen a recent decline in the conruns at the title had they been in ference’s coaching staffs. the playoff. The south used to have a I’d be hard-pressed to say monopoly on elite coaches. Once the same about any team from upon a time, Nick Saban, Les the SEC that is Miles, Urban not named the Meyer, Steve Alabama Crimson College football experts Spurrier and Tide. Mark Richt were thought their beloved Bowl season Big 10 Conference would all coaching in is another benchSEC in the finally claim the top spot, the mark for measursame football ing the strength of but the conference’s 3-7 season. bowl record is almost as a conference. Now, the The SEC usu- atrocious as Ohio State’s SEC’s household ally led the pack in Fiesta Bowl performance. coaches are guys this category, but like Dan Mulfinished the year len, Bret Bielema with a mediocre and Hugh Freeze 6-7 postseason record. who oversee the dumpster College football experts fire programs of Mississippi thought their beloved Big 10 State, Arkansas and Ole Miss, Conference would finally claim respectively. the top spot, but the conference’s That statement may offend 3-7 bowl record is almost as atro- the fans of those programs, but cious as Ohio State’s Fiesta Bowl watching their teams combine performance. for an 18-20 record offended my In fact, after watching this eyes. year’s bowl games, the real winIt’s clear the SEC is not the ner appears to be the ACC. The same conference that owned conference finished with a 9-3 the ranks of the college footbowl record, and Clemson de- ball world. The question is will throned reigning champion and SEC fans admit this, or will SEC powerhouse Alabama for they continue to cling to the the 2016 title. success of Nick Saban and the This was the second time in Crimson Tide?
SEC, from page 8
HASKELL WHITTINGTON / The Daily Reveille
Alabama head football coach Nick Saban walks down the sideline during the Tigers’ 10-0 loss against Alabama on Nov. 5 at Tiger Stadium. carries a lot of weight,” Fargas said. “Even though you have South know what Chloe can do. She’s Carolina and Kentucky who are more confident in her shot and the ranked, Our Missouri game is goability to score the ball. We need ing to be a tough game. We always her to be like that for the rest of battle with them. They’re wellthe SEC and we just coached. They’re ‘We all know what discipline. They need to tag along behind her.” players that Chloe can do. She’s have LSU’s next test can shoot the will be against Mis- a great shooter and three.” souri who is looking LSU will be she can attack the looking for its second conto avenge ference win to end a basket.’ its loss to Mistwo-game slump in souri after fallRAIGYNE MONCRIEF the SEC. Missouri ing in last year’s has lost its last two junior guard contest 52-46. games to Kentucky “One oppoand Alabama by a nent at a time and we’re going to combined total of three points, stay in the moment,” Fargas said. losing 64-62 on the road at Ken- “You don’t want to fast forward tucky and a one-point loss to the and look ahead to South Carolina. Crimson Tide 59-58. You want to put on a good perfor“Every game in the SEC mance out there for your fans.”
STREAK, from page 8
photos by KATE ROY / The Daily Reveille
Instructor Randi Hines (left) and owners Susan Marchand (middle) and Lorilin Braymer (right) prepare for an afternoon hot yoga session on Jan. 9 at Yoglates II, located off Perkins Road.
Opinion
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BORED GAMES As technology usage increases, ability to socialize declines MYIAPINION MYIA HAMBRICK @MyiaChristine
It’s New Year’s Eve, and I am hosting a party at my house. I have about 15 friends over, and we still have about two hours until midnight, so I suggest we play a board game. The first round was fun, but the second felt tedious. It’s not that I didn’t want to be there, but it seemed the people I was with were uninterested in the board game we started about 15 minutes earlier. The energy in the room went from exciting to dull in a matter of minutes. That’s when I looked around the room and realized the reason they were uninterested in the game: they were entirely engrossed by their cell phones. I’m not a board game fascist, so they weren’t forced to play, but the fact that they would rather be on their phones Snapchatting and Instagramming instead of the company of
cartoon by BETSY PRIMES / The Daily Reveille
a room full of people they care about was weird. The human attention span has dropped to about 8.25 seconds since 2000, when it was an estimated 12 seconds, according to a 2015 article by The Telegraph. For reference, a goldfish’s attention span is nine seconds. Many scientists attribute this drop to our increased involvement with and dependence on technology. Our constant use of technology has made us people who yearn for instant gratification. If we aren’t feeling validated, happy or entertained right away, we don’t want anything to do with the activity. Hence, the lack of interest in a board game in which you have to wait more than 15 minutes to see who wins. Sitting around on our phones while we are in the presence of people we love
makes it harder to enjoy being around those people. Next time I host a party, everyone will have to put their phones down for at least an hour and have party conversation. Technology itself is not a bad thing. We have made strides in health care, civil protection and the efficiency of everyday life because of it, but it has made us weak in socialization. The amount of people suffering from anxiety and depression because they feel alone is staggering these days. Approximately 20 percent of teens will experience depression before they reach adulthood, according to I Need a Lighthouse, A Depression and Suicide Awareness Program. They feel alone because even when they’re around people, they are essentially alone, and the only interaction
they have is from the likes and shares on the internet. You don’t have to be alone. It is very easy to find a friend to hang out with while you ditch phones and have real conversation. There is a time and a place for everything, so I am not saying we should completely rule out interaction through social media because it is a part of our world today. I am saying try to cut it out when you’re around people you should be enjoying spending time with. I am trying to work on this myself, and I’m bringing my friends along with me. Let’s see if we as a society can beat the goldfish again. Myia Hambrick is a 21-year-old mass communication junior from Temple, Georgia.
Broome forms inclusive millennial agenda subcommittee SAVED BY THE BELL FREDERICK BELL @frederickdbell Newly elected East Baton Rouge Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome has created several subcommittees to focus on issues around the city, creating a unique opportunity for students to have an impact on local government. These subcommittees will present a report of policy proposals at the end of January to the mayor. The purpose of the subcommittees could be described as a major research operation focused on numerous topics. According to The Advocate, the members of these subcommittees, “will study arts, culture and leisure; flood recovery; infrastructure,
transportation and mobility; economic development and enterprise; north Baton Rouge revitalization; health care, social services and mental health; housing and land use; metropolitan organization; the millennial agenda; women’s issues; race relations; and education.” Several University students, including Student Government president Zack Faircloth, student senators Ahmad El-Rachidi and Max Martin, mass communication student Madeline Abadie and myself serve on the Millennial Agenda subcommittee. The committee is composed of other young volunteers within the East Baton Rouge Parish area coming from Southern University, Baton Rouge Community College and other local colleges and universities. The Millennial Agenda subcommittee will study other
areas of the country and world where our generational issues have been put at the forefront of government administrations. The goal is to help renew a sense of purpose for the millennial generation in the city so they no longer feel the need to leave Baton Rouge to find social and economic opportunities. Over the next few weeks, members of the Millennial Agenda subcommittee will meet in conference rooms across the city and carefully formulate policy proposals for Mayor Broome to consider implementing. Mayor Broome is right to seek the guidance of young people to help forge her agenda to change the current landscape we face. As a millennial, I will directly benefit from having my voice heard because I live and work in Baton Rouge and have a unique perspective to give the new
mayor during her time in office. Too long have those in positions of power talked about involving youth, but rarely have they offered them a substantive spot at the table. Broome has. Broome, who had many millennials on her campaign, has not forgotten the positive effect that the youth perspective can have on good governing. It is refreshing to see a leader who realizes this fact and is acting on it. The issue of economic stagnation eventually leading to impending unemployment has some millennials fearful of the future. However, the future of business and industry is increasingly becoming dependent on millennials. According to the Baton Rouge Business Report, “Millennials now make up the nation’s largest generation, comprise more than one-third of
the workforce and are far more diverse than generations past.” This further emphasizes the importance of the millennial generation on local, national and global economies. “Millennials are the New Frontier,” millennial marketing expert Tobias Wilhelm said at a recent seminar during Baton Rouge Entrepreneurship Week. East Baton Rouge Parish millennials will now have a mayor who will listen to their issues and concerns and take the steps necessary to address them. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the city and parish that will eventually be left to the millennial generation to lead. This is a time to meet the moment and play a part in this vital work. Frederick Bell is a 19-year-old mass communication sophomore from Greensburg, Louisiana.
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Thursday, January 12, 2017
Sexism, racism driving forces behind Trump presidential victory JORDANSWERS JORDAN MARCELL @JordanCMarcell A group of political scientists recently published a paper which details the results of a study they conducted. What that study — undertaken by Brian Schaffner, Tatishe Nteta, and Matthew MacWilliams — concluded, was that if we control for the variables of political ideology and partisanship, the factors of racism and sexism had a far stronger relation to President-elect Donald Trump’s support than that mere dissatisfaction with the economy. Many Trump supporters would, of course, be the first to protest claims such as this, yet essentially everyone aside from themselves have had the mettle to admit that values founded in sexism and racism have both been driving forces behind Trump’s fanatical support the entire time. A thing I find humorous, however, is that, for some reason, people think this is an easy thing for liberals to say. Apparently, we like screaming that everyone is racist or sexist or out to get us. I’ll speak for myself in saying this, but I know I’m not alone. Never, for a second, think that I just want to blame racism and sexism
for anything. It is, in fact, a wish of mine that one day no one will ever have to blame racism or sexism for anything. I actually find pleasure in hoping that both disgusting ideologies will eventually be absent from the face of this rock we call Earth. No, it is not the case that I like to play the victim, nor that I like having to speak out against racism and sexism. It is, however, the case that I would very much enjoy not being a victim, that I would consider it pretty cool if I weren’t marginalized, and would think the world a better place if racism and sexism weren’t hanging around to be discussed in the first place. As long as these parasites of society keep leeching off of advancement, I’ll try to write remedies. So, remember that I say this about Trump and many of his supporters not because I enjoy it — I would very much rather having nothing to accuse them of in the first place. They think too highly of themselves. I say it because it still needs to be heard. I’ve heard that old tag line before, where a Trump supporter attempts to gain the moral high ground and make appeals for empathy for suffering the great “prejudices” facing them, in which they claim “You (liberals) think that just because I voted for Trump I’m some racist or sexist
pig!” I’m not saying that, so stop trying to feel bad for yourselves. What I am saying, though, is that if you are a racist or sexist, then yes you probably giggled your way to the polls, side eyed everyone unlike yourself, spoke only to those like yourself, signed in happily at the desk and cast your ballot for a bigot that you thought bigots could look up to for generations to come. I repeat, a vote for Trump does not necessarily make you a racist or a sexist, and anyone who jumps to such a conclusion is not reasoning without their own prejudices. Perhaps you actually wanted change, perhaps you were thoroughly displeased with current policy — all feelings I’ll likely relate to very soon. Perhaps it was even a petty contempt for the Clinton family name, just as many dislike Trump’s own. Nonetheless, this does not make you disgusting, homophobic, a climate change denier, a religious zealot, a sexist, a racist or anything else. I have no wish to make petty assumptions of all based on any amount in a group — even if that amount were 90 percent of the group. I have no wish to alienate decent people. It is that exact same thing that I seek not to do, however, that was preached by Trump throughout the entirety of his campaign and to this day. And, in conclusion,
allow me to set something about assumption making straight. Not all Mexicans are rapists, not all black people are drug dealers, not all Muslims are terrorists and not all Trump supporters are racists and sexists. Only rapists are rapists, only drug dealers are drug dealers, only terrorists are terrorists and only racists and sexists are racist and sexists. That is the only condition. Hearsay the point that still stands here is that very many of Trump’s supporters are still racists and sexists. As a matter of fact, that little factoid is why this column has any point at all. Let those Trump supporters who deny it deny it all they like. But, put simply, they are wrong. Also, put simply, this has very sad implications for the nation. German Lopez, staff writer at Vox, couldn’t have put better words on the matter when he wrote, “The point, at least for me, is not to demonize Trump voters. The point is to understand them in order to better grasp how they could vote for someone who ran a clearly bigoted campaign and who most voters agreed is unqualified for the nation’s highest office.” No matter how much people try to focus on his “plans” for his tenure in office, the fact still stands that this man did in fact say absurdly cruel, absurdly racist, absurdly sexist,
absurdly rude, absurdly childish, and absurdly idiotic things. Yet, he won nonetheless. And don’t think he won because some Trump supporters simply forgot about the things he said. Rest assured he won because some of them agree with it. Rest assured that some of them think they can grab women by their genitalia if they were to achieve fame. Rest assured that you live with these people every day, and don’t be foolish enough to deny the fact that they influenced the election. For some reason, it seems other Trump voters took his words about his “plans” seriously, yet turned their red faces away from his other remarks and took them with a grain of salt. But, that debate of logic aside, it would still be ridiculous to accuse all Trump supporters of sharing the status of the degenerates that are racists and sexists. Let us not forget the bigots, the deplorable, the ignorant and the power that they held in this election, and let us not deny that, without them, such an equally deplorable man, a man who won the electoral college by only 80,000 votes in three states, would not be where he is today. Jordan Marcell is a 20-year-old literature and studio photography sophomore from Geismar, Louisiana.
cartoon by NICK LEO / The Daily Reveille
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Quote of the Week “Isn’t it nice to think that tomorrow is a new day with no mistakes in it yet?”
L.M. Montgomery
author Nov. 30, 1847 — April 24, 1942
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Thursday, January 12, 2017
Off-campus housing unaffordable, gives false sense of luxury
individual leases of a 4-bedroom apartment at a IT’S PERSONAL price of approximately $650 per month. A 2-bedroom unit KEVIN YAU costs approximately $750 per @tatyyau month. However, I could have As a student of the paid $100 less to live in a simUniversity, I’ve witnessed the ilar-sized condominium near construction of numerous off- Nicholson and Lee Drive with campus apartments that are one roommate. Even though marketed toward students and they do not offer as many amethat brand themselves as luxu- nities, they are in a safe area ry housing. They usually offer and well-maintained by the amenities such as fitness rooms property owner. and swimming pools, and some Because student apartments even offer are able to rent out lazy rivers their small units at and tanning higher prices, the Some of my former beds, but the of apartclassmates have to work prices lease agreements around the four days a week to pay University soar. ments come for an apartment in a at unreasonFor instance, the low-income area. ably high price of a 2-bedprices. These room apartment so-called luxthat was $980 ury student per unit a month apartments are too exorbi- in 2009 went up $250 since tant and not built for students’ the advent of luxury student needs. apartments. I predict the price According to a study tag of the apartments around published in the Journal of Nu- the University will continue trition Education and Behavior, to soar in the near future, 59 percent of all college stu- and this is not beneficial for dents suffer from malnutrition. students. However, developers of student I believe businesses that apartments choose to ignore say they cater to college stuthis fact. They charge extra for dents should be well-suited to their services. For example, their needs, but when it comes many of them offer numer- to housing, that is not the case. ous, unnecessary amenities. Students struggle to make ends Many of them come furnished, meet, and some of my former even though it is not difficult to classmates have to work four purchase simple, portable fur- days a week to pay for an apartniture from Amazon or Wal- ment in a low-income area. It is Mart that suits every day use. upsetting to me that developThe University already has a ers of student apartments are student recreation center that acting in contrary, continuing offers a variety of amenities to offer amenities that the Uniand nullifies the need for the versity already offers. It is imluxury apartments’ ameni- portant for the developers and ties. Students do not want to managers to meet students’ depay extra for places that offer mands in order to operate for amenities they would not use. the long run. Maintenance of the amenities is another cost at- Kevin Yau is a 21-year-old socitached to these student apart- ology senior from Prairieville, ments. Those apartments offer Louisiana.
WHITNEY WILLISTON / The Daily Reveille
Park Place undergoes construction on Monday at the corner of Dodson Avenue and West Parker Boulevard.
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Thursday, January 12, 2017
Democrats have to rethink the way they talk to Republicans OSIE SAYS OSIE EVANS @osiezz The 2016 presidential election was one of the most controversial in recent history. Inflammatory statements from both sides, such as President-elect Donald Trump threatening to have Hillary Clinton arrested and Clinton calling Trump supporters a “basket of deplorables” only served to increase the tension between the parties. This is not the way Americans should interact with people who have different political beliefs. Nov. 8 left much of the country disappointed and fearful for the future. However, I was more disappointed with the reactions of some of my fellow Democrats following the election. Comments from Democrats, such as former President Bill Clinton’s labeling of Trump supporters as “angry white men” and memes that ridiculed Trump supporters as racist and ignorant spread across social media. Trump and some of his supporters were rightfully criticized for their divisive
rhetoric, and Democrats cannot make the same mistakes. Blaming the election results on Republicans being racist and uneducated is an oversimplification of the concerns expressed by Republican voters, and it will simply alienate key demographics from the Democratic Party. If Democrats are going to recover from the losses of the last election and gain support in other areas, we have to change the way we speak about Republicans. One of the most popular criticisms of Republicans was their stances on social issues, such as abortion and LGBTQ rights, but a 2016 poll conducted by Gallup showed that those issues were not their main priority. The most important concerns for Republicans were the economy, healthcare and national security. Criticizing Republicans for their beliefs on issues that aren’t the main focus for most of their voters will only cause frustration, not make them more open to the message of the Democratic Party. The importance placed on the economy is especially noteworthy when one considers the surprising switch by some of the Rust Belt states to red states in the last election — Ohio,
Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Michigan. Those states have been hard hit by the decline in factory jobs, and Trump campaigned heavily to convince voters in those areas that he would bring those jobs back. He succeeded, and the switch of those states cost Clinton the election. All of the aforementioned states went to President Barack Obama in the 2008 and 2012 elections. The accusation that Trump’s victory was mainly due to racism falls apart because many of those voters supported Obama. The insults and failure to acknowledge the mistakes made in these states may permanently alienate many of these key demographics in future elections. Polls conducted by the Pew Research Center in 2016 also showed that many of Trump’s infamous comments, such as his remarks about undocumented immigrants, are not a fair representation of most Republicans. The majority of Republicans believe undocumented immigrants are as honest and hard-working as U.S. citizens and support a path to citizenship for the ones currently living in the country.
cartoon by BETSY PRIMES / The Daily Reveille
During the coming years, Democrats must make sure that their criticism of Trump and his policies doesn’t turn into personally attacking fellow voters. We should focus on reiterating why we support the Democratic Party and how its policies can help the American people. All of America’s citizens deserve to have their viewpoints respected and considered by both political parties.
Trump won 194 swing state counties that supported Barack Obama in the past. These are voters who have voted Democrat in the past and can vote Democrat in the future, but only if we can prove we have solutions to the problems they face. Osie Evans is a 20-year-old English junior from Natchitoches, Louisiana.
Resolutions become more attainable if shared socially MYIAPINION MYIA HAMBRICK @MyiaChristine Most people are familiar with New Year’s resolutions. It’s something you intend to change about yourself, like wanting to lose weight, save money or get more rest. I enjoy resolutions because I believe in fresh starts. Personally, I have made many resolutions and haven’t kept them. I have always been focused on myself in these resolutions, and I never explicitly stated them to my friends or family. If I did, I might have succeeded in keeping them. In a 2015 Statistic Brain study, 41 percent of respondents said they regularly make New Year’s resolutions. Beyond that, only 58.4 percent keep the resolution alive after the first month. While this number does not seem promising, the idea of resolutions is not a recipe for failure, but rather a chance to incite change in your lifestyle. The same study points out that people are 10 times more likely to succeed at keeping and achieving their resolutions if they explicitly state them. Logically, if each person who made a resolution shared their plans with their families and friends, more people would succeed at completing them. Imagine this: instead of keeping a centralized goal to yourself, you spread the same goal to the minds of those close to
you, starting a chain reaction of people wanting to achieve the same goal you have in mind. For example, I make a resolution to be more kind to others. Then, I tell my closest friends about my resolution, and they decide to want to be more kind, too. They share the same idea with their friends, and before I know it, there are 50 people out there who have shared their common goals for the upcoming year: to be more kind. This is a strange way of thinking about resolutions, right? It is nearly impossible to make a change in another person, but making a change in yourself
is very doable. The greater the number of people who want to be better, the greater the number of people there will be in the world doing better. Now more than ever people are hopeful for a great year. With events in 2016 wrecking society, such as shootings and the crazy U.S. election, I am hopeful, too. Division has rapidly infiltrated our current world. We can sew it back together by enthusiastically and tirelessly working together. It may sound cliché, but we can make the world a better place. Whether you want to lose weight, save money, learn a
new skill or be more kind, take someone along with you. Adding people to your resolution will increase the number of people looking to better themselves and others exponentially, which will then make resolutions a circular activity instead of a linear, isolated one. In addition to increasing the number of people eager to improve, including people in your resolution trail adds to your satisfaction when completing or working towards this goal. This person may have positive encouragements to offer, or may see things differently than you. In this way, we can become more
understanding and helpful to each other instead of constantly competing and tearing each other down. I know it is an abstract idea, but a life well-lived is also an abstract concept. It is messy, things get confusing, and if we all band together to help each other through self-improvement, this may just be the thing we need to permanently leave the dumpster fire of 2016 behind and move forward going into humankind’s best year yet. Myia Hambrick is a 21-year-old mass communication junior from Temple, Georgia.
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LSU Student Union Royal Cotillion Ballroom March 8, 2017 10 AM - 2 PM