Olympic Medal Count
U.S. Germany Norway
GOLD
7 7 6
TOTAL
28 24 18
CROSSWORD Play with puzzles, page 6.
FINALLY!
Tigers win first SEC game of season, top Arkansas 65-54, page 7.
THE DAILY REVEILLE WWW.LSUREVEILLE.COM
Joule of the School
Volume 114, Issue 96
O’Connell has taught physics since 1964
“Physics is my thing.”
By Sarah Eddington Staff Writer
The University has endured many changes during the past 45 years — four tigers have earned the moniker “Mike,” and eight chancellors, including the University’s first, have lead the school. But during this nearly half century, Robert O’Connell has remained a constant fixture. O’Connell, the University’s longest-serving tenured professor, first came to the University in January 1964 and has been teaching theoretical physics ever since. “Physics is my thing,” O’Connell said. “I always knew I wanted a career in physics.” Irish-born O’Connell received his bachelor’s degree at the National University of Ireland in 1953. After completing college and working as a telecommunications engineer for four years, O’Connell said he decided to come to the U.S. for opportunities in scientific fields. “It was at a time when the U.S. was really getting into science in a big way,” O’Connell said. “That’s the main reason I came.” After getting his Ph.D, at the University of Notre Dame in 1962, O’Connell returned to Ireland to marry his fiance, Josephine, who was living there at the time. O’Connell worked at the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies for a year, but said conditions in Ireland weren’t favorable for theoretical physics. He then started looking for positions in the
Thursday, February 25, 2010
FINANCES
Undergrad credit card usage, debt increasing CARD Act to protect consumers By Mary Walker Baus Contributing Writer
ERIN ARLEDGE and J.J. ALCANTARA /
The Daily Reveille
Robert O’Connell is the longest serving tenured professor at the University. First working at LSU in 1964. O’Connell teaches theoretical physics.
southern U.S., and he received an offer from LSU in January of 1964. O’Connell said he came at a fortunate time for science because the University had just received the National Science Foundation’s Centers of Excellence grant.
“This was at a time when a lot of money was being put into science,” he said. O’Connell said he was never interested in administration. TENURE, see page 19
Increasing education on and limiting the use of credit cards among young people is a key aspect of the Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility and Disclosure (CARD) Act. Jared Bernstein, senior economic adviser to the vice president of the U.S., discussed in a conference call Tuesday the importance of including young people in consumer protection reforms within the CARD Act with college media. “The CARD Act is a key part of a number of administrative initiatives to increase the protection of consumers,” Bernstein said. “Our economy was in a recession ... because consumers as well as businesses often took on far more debt than they could viably service.” According to statistics compiled by CreditCards.com, 309 million Visa credit cards and 352 CREDIT, see page19
HEALTH
Research suggests chocolate decreases risk of stroke Antioxidants in candy promote heath
By Sarah Eddington Staff Writer
A February analysis shows chocolate isn’t only good for a sweet tooth, but may also help prevent strokes. Researchers at the St. Michael’s Hospital, University of Toronto analyzed three prior chocolate studies and found chocolate consumption can help eliminate the risk of stroke and lower the risk of death after a stroke. Two of the three studies supported the hypothesis. In the first study, 44,489 people who
ate one serving of chocolate per week were 22 percent less likely to have a stroke than people who didn’t eat chocolate. In another study, 1,169 people who ate 50 grams of chocolate a week were 46 percent less likely to die following a stroke than people who didn’t eat chocolate. The analysis will be presented at the American Academy of Neurology’s 62nd Annual Meeting in Toronto in April. Heli Roy, associate nutrition professor, said the findings didn’t surprise her. “It makes perfect sense,” Roy said. “Previous research has shown chocolate prevents heart disease.” Chocolate contains flavonoids — compounds found in fruits, vegetables and certain beverages that have diverse antioxidant effects to promote health. “The ones in chocolate are stronger
than in some vegetables and tea,” Roy said. “They have a greater capacity to rid the body of oxidative free radicals.” Radicals are fast-reacting compounds that cause havoc on the body, Roy said. When low-density lipoproteins are oxidized, it can lead to the build up of fatty plaques in the arteries. Antioxidants prevent LDLs from being oxidized, which could prevent heart problems. But not all chocolate has the same effects. “The darker, the better,” Roy said. “Lighter chocolates have less cocoa and more fat.” Chocolate with a higher percentage of cocoa have more antioxidants, Roy said. CHOCOLATE, see page 19
NICOLE KARAMICHAEL / The Daily Reveille
Baum’s Fine Pastries & Chocolates displays their lemon meringue truffles Tuesday. A recent study found that chocolate could help prevent strokes.
THE DAILY REVEILLE
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2010
Nation & World
INTERNATIONAL
NATIONAL
Dubai: 15 more suspects in Hamas commander slaying
Whale kills SeaWorld trainer as horrified spectators watch
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — At least 15 more suspects carrying foreign passports were linked Wednesday to an elaborate hit squad slaying of a Hamas commander that Dubai’s police chief claims was likely carried out by Israel’s Mossad secret service.
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — A SeaWorld killer whale snatched a trainer from a poolside platform Wednesday in its jaws and thrashed the woman around underwater, killing her in front of a horrified audience. It marked the third time the animal had been involved in a human death. Distraught audience members were hustled out of the stadium immediately, and the park was closed. Trainer Dawn Brancheau, 40, was one of the park’s most experienced.
Brazilian president says Castro looks ‘recovered’ HAVANA (AP) — Brazil’s president describes Fidel Castro as “exceptionally well” and says the former Cuban leader appears recovered from a health crisis that has kept him out of the public eye for more than 3 years. Brazilian President Luis Inacio Lula da Silva spent more than an hour Wednesday discussing various topics with the 83-year-old Castro, who ceded power to his younger brother Raul after undergoing emergency intestinal surgery in July 2006.
Hummer at dead end after sale to Chinese collapses NEW YORK (AP) — Hummer, the off-road vehicle that once symbolized America’s love for hulking SUVs, has hit a dead end after its sale to a Chinese heavy equipment maker collapsed late Wednesday. Sichuan Tengzhong Heavy Industrial Machines Co. pulled out of
the deal to buy the company from General Motors Co. Tengzhong failed to get clearance from Chinese regulators within the proposed timeframe for the sale, the Chinese manufacturer said Wednesday. Clay Aiken takes the stage in North Carolina for gay rights RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — More than a year after disclosing he is gay, Clay Aiken is speaking before a gay-rights event in his hometown. Aiken will deliver a speech about gay rights this weekend at the Human Rights Campaign Carolinas gala in Raleigh, The News & Observer of Raleigh reported Wednesday. Actress Meredith Baxter, who recently said she is a lesbian, also will deliver a speech. The 31-year-old Raleigh native, pop singer and 2003 “American Idol” runner-up said he wrote his own speech after remarks provided for him proved too political, including a slam aimed at former President George W. Bush.
STATE/LOCAL
Nagin’s nephew dies after fall out of a moving pickup truck
Some snow fell in La., but almost all melted immediately
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin has canceled a trip to Washington, D.C., to support his family after the death of his nephew, Larry Smith Jr. Eight days after falling out of a moving pickup truck in Algiers, Smith died Sunday afternoon at an area hospital. He was 29. John Gagliano, the chief investigator for the Orleans Parish Coroner’s Office, said Smith severely hurt his head after he tumbled out of a truck about 5 p.m. on Feb. 13. Paramedics took him to LSU Interim Public Hospital, where he survived for more than a week. Police said the truck’s driver, Anastasia Nedd, 43, of New Orleans, apparently argued with Smith moments before he fell. Officers cited her for assault but police spokesman Garry Flot said she may face more charges pending the outcome of an ongoing investigation.
SHREVEPORT (AP) — The National Weather Service says north Louisiana did get snow, but most of it melted as soon as it hit the ground. Meteorologist Nick Fillo in Shreveport says there were widespread reports of snow Tuesday night in northwest Louisiana. But overnight temperatures were generally in the mid 30s, so there was little chance to accumulate.
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Spring Fest Team Leader Applications Available at www.lsu.edu/oma Deadline: Friday, February 26th Bridge Program February 25, 2010 African American Cultural Center, 6:00p.m. DO YOU HAVE AN OCCURRENCE? Call Isaiaah at the Student Media Office 578-6090, 9AM- 5PM or E-mail: officemanager@lsureveille.com
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TODAY
Be a part of S.T.R.I.P.E.S 2010 STAFF!! No previous S.T.R.I.P.E.S. experience needed Learn more- TODAY at 3:30 in Coates 109
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Asian elephant at Baton Rouge Zoo receives foot boot (AP) — Judy, the 41-year-old female Asian elephant at the Baton Rouge Zoo, may soon be wearing a boot to protect her from recurring foot infections. Zoo spokeswoman Mary Woods on Tuesday announced the prospective move so visitors won’t be surprised by the change if and when it occurs in the next few weeks.
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CORRECTIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS
In the Feb. 23 article titled “Men’s basketball: Ross-Miller chooses LSU over Kentucky,” former Kentucky men’s basketball coach Billy Gillispie’s name was misspelled. This space is reserved to recognize and correct any mistakes which may have been printed in The Daily Reveille. If you would like something corrected or clarified please contact the editor at (225) 578-4811 or e-mail editor@lsureveille.com.
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
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THE DAILY REVEILLE
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2010
Campus Student Government to announce Crime Groovin’ lineup Monday at noon Briefs SG SENATE
Senators to run in Race for the Cure By Catherine Threlkeld Staff Writer
Melissa Guidry, Student Government director of student involvement, announced on Wednesday the release party for the Groovin’ on the Grounds lineup will be at noon Monday in Free Speech Plaza. SG will announce at the party which artists will perform March 20 at this year’s concert on the Parade Grounds. Past acts include Akon, Corey Smith, Three 6 Mafia, Better Than Ezra, Chevelle, the Gin Blossoms and Marc Broussard. During SG’s Wednesday meeting, Graduate School Senators David Widenski, Nicole Hansen and Benjamin Phelan also proposed legislation to fund graduate student Steven McCullar’s trip to a Chicago conference to present his research on crisis management.
Arts and Sciences Senator Andy Palermo spoke against the bill and said the student already received money from the graduate student fund. The SG Senate voted favorably for an amended version of the bill, allotting $190 to help fund the student’s trip. Chloe Chetta, SG director of organization outreach, said she has been working with J Hudson, SG director of external affairs, to organize events to get students involved in budget cuts. Chetta said they’ve made plans to have to “coffee and call” sessions where SG will provide students with budget cut information. The students will have the opportunity to call state representatives and request help with budget cuts. The “coffee and call” sessions will be March 10 and March 16 in the Live Oak Lounge. Emily Landry, E.J. Ourso College of Business senator, and University Court Justice Brittany Smith declared March volunteer month for SG. The senators will
volunteer with Habitat for Humanity on March 13, 20 and 27. The SG Senate is also putting together a team for Susan G. Koman Race for the Cure at 8 a.m. March 6. The 5K race benefits breast cancer awareness. Dean of Students KC White spoke to the Senate several weeks ago about getting students involved in the race. White recently survived a bout breast cancer and will be in the race as well. “I’d like to see more senators sign up,” said Brandon Jones, basic sciences senator. “I’ll be there, and I’ve been training.” Smith and Landry said SG’s executive, judicial and legislative branches will be competing to raise materials for the Ronald McDonald house in New Orleans. Ronald McDonald house provides food and housing for families of hospitalized children.
Contact Catherine Threlkeld at cthrelkeld@lsureveille.com
STAFF SENATE
Monday speaks about budget Gothreaux proposes layoff support By Jacob Most Contributing Writer
Finance and Administrative Services Vice Chancellor Eric Monday said the University needs to change and become more efficient when he spoke to the Staff Senate Wednesday about the 2011 budget framework for the University. JORDAN LaFRANCE / The Daily Reveille Monday said the University has Staff Senate President Chad Gothreaux speaks Wednesday at the Staff Senate cut approximately $43 million from the budget during the last 14 months, meeting about a new way for the University to handle budget cuts. and he said more budget cuts during Senate executive committee’s sug- met and the state legislature apthe next two years are possible. gestions were being considered proves the plan. Monday said because 80 per- by the Office of Finance and AdThe steps taken by Jindal on cent of the University’s budget is ministrative Services,” said Chad Tuesday would allow for the Unispent on people, Gothreaux, Staff versity to operate with greater aucutting operating Senate president. tonomy, especially with regard to costs quickly leads “We need to at- travel for faculty and staff, Monday to cutting people’s tack the problem of said. jobs. budget cuts on the Gothreaux also spoke about the “The most revenue, student University providing layoff support valuable thing LSU and entrepreneurial for staff members who could lose has is people,” side.” jobs due to budget cuts. Monday said. Monday re“Career Services already proMonday also ferred to Gov. Bob- vides some transitional support for Chad Gothreaux spoke about how by Jindal’s Tuesday those who lose their jobs, but we Staff Senate president the University press conference, want to see if we can have the Unicould continue to which announced versity conduct a job fair for laid off improve while dealing with budget the LA GRAD program, Granting employees,” Gothreaux said. cuts. Resources and Autonomy for DiploGothreaux said the Staff Senate Monday said the University mas, as an “amazing step” for the was going to discuss making retenneeds to increase enrollment of University and higher education. tion investments, which would help graduate students to 22 percent of The LA GRAD program would staff members who do not lose their total enrollment from the 17 percent allow Louisiana universities to in- jobs do “more with less.” currently enrolled. He also said the crease tuition by 10 percent per year University would need to offer an until they reach the average prices online degree by next fall. Contact Jacob Most at of their regional peer universities, “It’s exciting to hear that Staff assuming certain qualifications are jmost@lsureveille.com
‘‘
‘We need to attack the problem of budget cuts on the revenue, student and entrepreneurial side.’
OVER THE LIMIT On Feb. 20 at 3:43 a.m., LSU Police Department officers observed a car traveling on Nicholson Drive near South Stadium Drive strike a curb, said Sgt. Kevin Scott, LSUPD spokesperson. Police performed a routine traffic stop in which they smelled alcohol on the driver. The driver, Matthew Gandy, not affiliated with the University, told police he had one shot of tequila. Gandy failed a field sobriety test and was taken to the LSUPD station where he registered a .176 blood alcohol level, Scott said. Gandy was booked into East Baton Rouge Prison on charges of driving while intoxicated and careless operation, Scott said. PINK GORILLA At 8 p.m. on Feb 21, officers
PAGE 3 were dispatched to Middleton Library in response to a noise complaint, Scott said. Officers made contact with two students, one wearing a pink gorilla suit passing out cups and koozies to promote a local apartment complex, Scott said. Witnesses told police the student was running through the library while making loud noises, Scott said. Police escorted the students to their vehicles and they left the area, Scott said. LIFE SCIENCES THIEF On Feb. 17 at 10:30 a.m., police were dispatched to the Life Sciences Building in response a complaint about a stolen laptop, Scott said. A University faculty member observed an unidentified male leave her fifth-floor office with a stolen laptop. The faculty member chased the suspect from the fifth to second floor where she lost sight of him, Scott said. The theft is still under investigation, Scott said. Contact The Daily Reveille’s news staff at news@lsureveille.com
PAGE 4
THE DAILY REVEILLE
Thursday, February 25, 2010
EVENT
Students learn to stand out for jobs Personal Brand Week encourages uniqueness By Ryan Buxton Senior Staff Writer
Students looking to set themselves apart in the increasingly competitive job market can get tips on sharpening their skills during Personal Brand Week. The national program, created by auditing firm PricewaterhouseCoopers, is meant to train students on how to make themselves unique and create a brand for themselves to stand out to employers. Each day this week a different topic is spotlighted on PricewaterhouseCoopers’ Web site and Facebook page. The topics include “Your Network,” “Your Online Brand” and “Your Elevator Pitch” — what Holly Paul, national recruiting leader for PricewaterhouseCoopers, called a “short, succinct way” for students to “explain who they are, what they’re looking for, and what skills they bring to the table.” Paul said to create a personal brand, students have to think about themselves as a whole and be selfaware about what they have to offer employers. It goes much further than just having an impressive resumé. “A resume is one piece of paper, but the things we’re highlighting as part of Personal Brand Week are what help students differentiate themselves,” Paul said. Sara Crow, assistant director of communications for Career Services, said volunteer work and internships [both paid and unpaid] are valuable assets to students. “Excellent performance in the classroom is always important, but what makes you uniquely qualified will come from your personal experiences,” Crow said. Crow said students can start shaping their personal brand during their first semester at the University. The First Year Experience program offers students a jump-start on activities and organizations. “[FYE] is a team of people that is specifically on campus to help first year students acclimate to campus and help them decide what to
get involved in,” Crow said. Simply being at a university provides copious opportunities for networking students shouldn’t waste, Paul said. Paul said personal connections made during college are extremely valuable and are possible at big schools like LSU. “LSU is a large school, but when you’re in a large school you break your world down into smaller groups of people,” she said. Paul said students can also differentiate themselves by being masters of potential interview questions, like where one expects to be in five years. “It’s critical that students really know how to nail that question,” Paul said. “Everyone doesn’t have
to know exactly what they want to do in five years, but students need to understand their strengths and skill set and what they want to do in the future.” Students should also be mindful of when it is not advantageous to be unique, like in one’s appearance, Crow said. “You want the focus to be on you and what you’re saying, not on what you look like and what you’re wearing,” Crow said. Career Services is holding Work Experience Week, an event similar to Personal Brand Week on March 15-18.
thursday FEBRUARY 25 Mellow Mushroom 2 FOR 1: Draft, Shroom Tea & Wine till 10PM $2.50 Mexican Bottles $5 Double Grown & Grey Goose Wes Loper Live
FRED’S Tonight: 8-10 Ladies Night; 10-12 No cover for ladies $2.50 Bud Select & Michelob Ultra; $5 Absolut & Flavors Friday: 8-10 Facebook Friday with free call brands and longnecks Saturday: $2.50 Coors Light, Miller Lite, & Bud Light; $5 Ketel One
• advertise your event and specials for as low as $5 a day! •
Contact Ryan Buxton at rbuxton@lsureveille.com
RAVE MOTION PICTURES February 26th - February 28th WWW.RAVEMOTIONPICTURES.COM Baton Rouge 16 Mall of Louisiana 15 I-12@ O’Neal 225-769-5176 I-10@ Mall of LA Exit 225-769-5176 **AVATAR 3D PG13 11:35, 12:55, 3:05, 4:45, 7:00, 8:25, 10:35 **THE BLIND SIDE PG13 11:10 AM ONLY **THE BOOK OF ELI R 12:40, 4:05, 7:05, 10:05 PG13 **DEAR JOHN 11:25, 2:00, 4:35, 7:25, 9:55 **COP OUT R 12:15, 2:15, 4:1, 5:15, 7:15, 8:00, 10:00, 10:45 **THE CRAZIES R 12:00, 2:30, 5:00, 7:45, 8:30, 10:15, 11:00 **FROM PARIS WITH LOVE R 2:55, 8:20 **PERCY JACKSON & THE OLYMPIANS: LIGHTNING THIEF PG 11:00, 11:55, 1:45, 4:30, 5:20, 7:20, 10:10, 10:50 ** SHUTTER ISLAND R 11:45, 12:45, 4:00, 4:50, 7:30, 8:15, 10:40 **TOOTH FAIRY PG 11:05, 2:25, 5:10, 7:50, 10:25 **VALENTINE’S DAY PG13 11:30, 12:30, 2:40, 4:10, 5:30, 7:10, 10:20 **THE WOLFMAN R
12:10, 2:45, 5:25, 7:55
9-10:30 AM 12-1:30 PM 3:00-3:30 PM 5:30-6:00 PM
District 9 Julie & Julia News Beat Live News Beat Repeat
**AVATAR 3D PG13 11:05, 12:15, 2:55, 4:05, 6:50, 10:55 **THE BOOK OF ELI R 12:20, 7:20 R **COP OUT 11:15, 12:00, 3:00, 5:15, 7:15, 8:;00, 10:15, 10:45, 11:15 **THE CRAZIES R 11:00, 1:45, 2:30, 4:45, 7:30, 8:15, 10:30, 11:00 **CRAZY HEART R 11:25, 2:20, 5:05, 8:05 **EDGE OF DARKNESS R 4:20, 10:35 **FROM PARIS WITH LOVE R 10:10PM ONLY **PERCY JACKSON & THE OLYMPIANS: LIGHTNING THIEF PG 11:10, 12:10, 4:00, 5:10, 7:05, 11:10 ** SHUTTER ISLAND R 11:30, 12:30, 2:50, 4:15, 7:00, 7:45, 10:05, 11:05 **TOOTH FAIRY PG 12:25, 4:10, 7:10 **VALENTINE’S DAY PG13 11:45, 2:15, 4:30, 7:2, 8:10, 10:40, 11:10 **THE WOLFMAN R 11:20, 2:00, 5:00, 7:55, 10:50
7:00-8:30 PM Couples Retreat 10:00-10:30PM News Beat Repeat 11:00-12:30PM The Hurt Locker
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2010
THE DAILY REVEILLE
PAGE 5
HISTORY
Ledger shows new insight into Faulkner’s writing
By Ryan Buxton Senior Staff Writer
Famed Southern author William Faulkner died 47 years ago, but new details about his work are still being unearthed. John Lowe, University English professor and president of the Society for the Study of Southern Literature, is writing a book on Faulkner, and he is basing some of his research on a Mississippi plantation ledger recently discovered to be the inspiration for parts of Faulkner’s work, including the novel “Go Down, Moses.” The ledger was written by the great-grandfather of a lifelong friend of Faulkner’s. It contains details and records of slave ownership appearing in “Go Down, Moses,” which suggests Faulkner drew inspiration from the ledger, Lowe said. “[The ledger shows] what seems to be something [Faulkner] made up — the history of that plantation family in ‘Go Down, Moses’ — really has a basis in facts,” Lowe said. Its contents will be published by LSU Press in June in a book by Sally Wolff-King, a professor from Emory University who discovered the led-
BRIANNA PACIORKA / The Daily Reveille
John Lowe, history professor, lectures during his Introduction to African-American Literature class Monday. Lowe is currently writing a book on William Faulkner.
ger’s significance. Lowe said the description of slave ownership in the ledger probably struck Faulkner on a personal level because of a discovery he made about his own great-grandfather. “[Faulkner] discovered that in his own family his revered greatgrandfather, Colonel William Falkner, had a long-running affair with a black woman, and they had children and descendants,” Lowe said. Faulkner probably reacted in a
“very visceral, personal way” when he uncovered his great-grandfather had put pressure on a black woman to have sex with him — a situation Lowe called one of the worst parts of slavery. Lowe said the ledger and diary had been studied before, but no one knew Faulkner had used it in his writing. “Historians have consulted them, but they didn’t know Faulkner consulted them,” he said. The discovery of the plantation
BUDGET CUTS
Survey: College focus off education Sixty percent say business a priority By Ryan Buxton Senior Staff Writer
Most Americans think colleges are more concerned with being a business than providing a quality education, according to a new survey. The February survey, called “Squeeze Play 2010,” was conducted by non-profit research firm Public Agenda and surveyed 1,031 people. According to the survey, 60 percent of Americans said colleges are “like most businesses and care about the bottom line,” rather than making sure students have a good educational experience. That number increased from 55 percent from the previous year. Political science sophomore Diana Chirico said she felt professors’ focus has been taken off academics because of continuing concerns about budget cuts and the possibility of losing faculty. “Lots of my teachers are discussing what will happen to their jobs,” she said. Vice Provost of Academic Affairs Stacia Haynie said concern from students about budget cuts is understandable. “The capacity to provide really critical support services is directly related to the resources available to do that,” Haynie said. “Students who see some of those services constricted as a result of budget cuts are frustrated.” But Haynie said the University ensures quality for students by protecting the academic core and offering extracurricular services, despite
budget cuts. “We want to ensure when a student arrives on our campus it’s a strong curriculum, and courses are available,” Haynie said. “And beyond that, those students need to arrive here and have the sort of experiences that make the education opportunity the best [it] can be.” Haynie said counseling and advising as well as extracurricular activities are meant to make students’ experience at the University as rich as possible. Finance junior Blake Irizarry said in his experience University teachers have proven they care about students, and he said he doesn’t think that aspect will change because of budget cuts. “I’ve been here three years, and
I’ve realized most of the teachers are here because they want to teach you,” he said. Irizarry said his teachers “really want you to understand and grasp information,” and he thinks danger of losing faculty might be an extra incentive for them to do better. The “Squeeze Play” survey also showed 54 percent of Americans think colleges could spend less money without lowering education quality. Haynie said that is not the case. “I suspect the natural inclination is to assume that you can always get a little bit more for a little bit less, but we passed that a long time ago,” she said. Contact Ryan Buxton at rbuxton@lsureveille.com
ledger and its influence on Faulkner is causing Lowe to revise the book he has just written, “Faulkner’s Fraternal Fury: Sibling Rivalry, Racial Kinship and Democracy.” The book, to be published by LSU Press, was already complete, but Lowe will revise it during the next few months to include the new information that came with the ledger’s discovery. Apart from the revised portion, the book deals with Faulkner’s turbulent relationship with his brothers, both of whom were alcoholics, like Faulkner. “It’s about how Faulkner didn’t get along with his brothers and that shaped the direction of his writing,” Lowe said. “He knew it was a problem, and so he found a way to make great art out of it.” Discoveries like the ledger and the scholarly work with it have a transformative effect on the study of literature, said Anna Nardo, chair of the English department. “There are often archival materials that languish in libraries or archives or even in people’s attics or basements that make us rethink certain assumptions we’ve had about an author,” Nardo said.
The discovery of the ledger and the publishing of new books like Lowe’s can recreate interest in authors who have been stagnant research topics in recent years, Nardo said. “Years ago, there were more American dissertations written on Faulkner than Shakespeare,” Nardo said. “He was a very popular subject for literary study, then his stock fell a little bit because there was a lot of concern about his representation of race.” But new research and scholarly discussion will follow the new information about Faulkner, Nardo said. Lowe expects his book to be released sometime in 2011. Faulkner’s work will continue to be relevant because his writing touches on themes society is still dealing with today, Lowe said. “We continue to read his books because we’re not in a postracial age, as people say,” Lowe said. “We’re still dealing with persecution.”
Contact Ryan Buxton at rbuxton@lsureveille.com
PAGE 6
THE DAILY REVEILLE
POLITICS
Lone GOP health care backer’s controversial campaign cash dips By The Associated Press WASHINGTON (AP) — The lone Republican lawmaker to support Democratic health care legislation has seen his fundraising drop by nearly 40 percent since his vote, and he is quickly burning through a dwindling bank account after resorting to a costly national fundraising operation. Rep. Anh “Joseph” Cao, the unlikely congressman from New Orleans, is facing the perils of bipartisanship unlike any other lawmaker in Washington — trying to please a heavily Democratic constituency while relying on core conservatives for money to fuel his campaign. Although Republican leaders have continued supporting Cao with money from their campaign committees despite his health care position, the conservative donors he’s courting around the country may not be so forgiving. A Vietnamese-American, Cao (pronounced gow) won his seat in 2008 even as President Barack Obama took 75 percent of the vote in the district that is 60 percent black. Like Louisiana’s Indian-American governor, Bobby Jindal, Cao was hailed as a next-generation Republican who could put a more diverse face on the party’s predominantly white image. But Cao’s victory was unique. It came only after his Democratic opponent and predecessor, Rep. William Jefferson, was found with $90,000 in his freezer and indicted on bribery charges. Republicans acknowledge that Cao will have a tough time holding the seat. Even in a favorable political climate for Republicans, Cao’s contributions have fallen sharply since he was alone among 178 GOP House members to vote for the health care bill on Nov. 7. He raised less than $250,000 during the three months surrounding the vote, compared with nearly $400,000 the previous quarter. At the same time, he spent more than he raised — with nearly $9 of every $10 going to buy conservative donor databases, send solicitations and pay for consultants and other fundraising expenses, according to an Associated Press review of his campaign finance report. There are no rules governing how much a candidate should spend on fundraising, but Cao’s ratio is unusually high, particularly for a sitting congressman. Since starting his re-election campaign last year, at least $640,000 of the $874,602 Cao has reported spending has gone toward fundraising — about 75 percent. Instead of promoting him in the district, most of the money went to a network of conservative Washington-area consultants. Heading into the midterm election season, Cao had just $315,000 in the bank — a weak tally in an age when incumbents frequently stockpile $1 million or more. One of Cao’s two Democratic opponents, state Rep. Cedric Richmond, is gaining on him, with about $225,000 cash on
BILL HABER / The Associated Press
Rep. Anh “Joseph” Cao, R-La., answers a question Aug. 18 at a town hall meeting in Westego, La. The lone Republican lawmaker to support Democratic health care legislation has seen his fundraising drop by nearly 40 percent since his vote.
hand, in part from self-financing. In an interview with the AP, Cao acknowledged his contributions are down and fundraising expenses are eating up a large portion of them. But he said he expects his investment in direct-mail solicitations outside his district to start paying dividends. “We use those organizations to build up a donor list, and obviously to do that requires a lot of outreach and mailing,” said Cao. “The cost is high in the beginning, but as you go through the campaign the returns will be a lot better.” That may be wishful thinking. Cao’s network of fundraising consultants is led by a company called Base Connect, which has a track record of
taking huge fees while sometimes leaving its candidates with little in return. Cao has gone along with its strategy — casting himself as a Ronald Reagan conservative and a threat to the Democrats’ agenda. But he knows he can take the approach only so far without alienating voters hit hard by Hurricane Katrina. He said he put a stop to one early mailing because it was too strident. Base Connect did not respond to a request for comment.
Contact The Daily Reveille’s news staff at news@lsureveille.com
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Today in sports: Women’s Basketball at 8 p.m.
Sports
Thursday, February 25, 2010
PAGE 7
Sigh of Relief
Tigers grab first SEC win against Arkansas By Chris Branch Sports Writer
The LSU men’s basketball team won a basketball game. Let that sink in for a moment. The 12-game losing streak is done. More importantly, the zero is gone from the Southeastern Conference win column. It wasn’t even close. The Tigers (10-17, 1-12) snatched their first conference win with a dominant 65-54 win against Arkansas (14-14, 7-6), who beat LSU by 35 points just a week ago. Senior forward Tasmin Mitchell led LSU with 16 points, and junior guard Bo Spencer scored 10 points in the winning effort. “It’s been a long time,” said
LSU coach Trent Johnson. “I forgot how it felt [to win]. It’s interesting, for me, I slept good last night. That’s a problem. I woke up later than I ever have. Maybe I should just start sleeping and stop coaching.” Whatever Johnson did, it worked. The Tigers had eight players score in the contest. Such balance was a scarcity during the 12-game drought. “It felt good,” Johnson said. “The tempo was to our liking, but looking up there and seeing us up 13 or 14 against a team of this caliber felt nice.” The Tigers pounced early. A 10-0 run to open the game set the tone. Tonight was different. “It’s a big win for the team and the program,” Mitchell said. “We had a goose egg in the SEC. It was
Spring practice begins Friday By Rachel Whittaker Chief Sports Writer
With his sixth spring practice just one day away, LSU football coach Les Miles said Wednesday that changes in the team will range from practice drills to potential starting lineups. “We really saw a team improve significantly,” Miles said. “We have really good people, and it’s that factor of youth that’s saying, ‘Damn, I really want to be a part of this.’ We have enough youth in this team that it will bubble with competition.” One position last season where youth was a persisting factor was quarterback with then-sophomore Jordan Jefferson. Miles said rising junior Jarrett Lee and rising redshirt freshman Chris Garrett “will provide competition” for Jefferson, now a rising junior. “With a year under his belt, we can expect [Jefferson] to reap some of the rewards of his experiences,” Miles said. “He’s seen the position better than he has before, and he’ll continue to progress with throwing [the ball] away, not holding onto it and getting the formation lined up.” Miles said rising junior Stevan Ridley, rising senior Richard Murphy and rising redshirt freshman Michael Ford will “get the ball repeatedly” at running back. Murphy injured his knee against Vanderbilt in 2009 and did not return for the rest of the season. “He’s unbelievably ready. You should see him compete in the morning against Ford, Ridley, you name it,” Miles said. “The one
WIN, see page 15
J. J. ALCANTARA / The Daily Reveille
[Above] LSU freshman forward Dennis Harris, right, embraces junior guard Bo Spencer on Wednesday after the Tigers won their first SEC game against Arkansas, 65-54, in the PMAC. [Right] Sophomore guard/forward Zach Kinsley dunks during the win.
FOOTBALL
BRIANNA PACIORKA / The Daily Reveille
TACKLE, see page 15
BASEBALL
Gibbs pushes LSU past McNeese St. Elbow injury takes out Ranaudo for weekend By Rachel Whittaker Chief Sports Writer
The LSU baseball team’s win against McNeese State on a cold Wednesday night came with a bittersweet ending. Junior catcher Micah Gibbs slammed a go-ahead solo home run into the right field bleachers on the first pitch of the eighth inning that propelled the Tigers to a 2-1 victory, but coach Paul
Mainieri announced after the game that junior pitcher Anthony Ranaudo will be scratched from his scheduled start this weekend because of a “stress reaction” in his elbow. “He just has some pain on the outside of his elbow, which is away from the ligament,” Mainieri said. “I don’t think it’s going to be anything terribly serious. He just has so much riding on his career that I don’t want to put the kid in a situation where it might make it worse.” Mainieri said Ranaudo will not need Tommy John surgery, but he is unsure how long the 2009 All-American will need to recover. He said Ranaudo
could be out as many as three weeks. Mainieri said junior Austin Ross will start Friday and sophomore Joey Bourgeois will start Saturday against William and Mary at home, and Sunday’s starter is still to be determined. It was very much a pitchers’ duel Wednesday at Alex Box Stadium, as the game was tied at 1-1 through the top of the eighth inning before Gibbs’ second home run of the season. “I was looking for a fastball, something in the strike zone I could drive,” Gibbs said. “[Senior first baseman Blake] Dean gave me one of those FASTBALL, see page 15
J. J. ALCANTARA / The Daily Reveille
LSU junior pitcher Anthony Ranaudo throws a pitch Feb. 19 against Centenary. Ranaudo, who was slated to pitch Friday, is out for an unspecified period of time with an elbow injury.
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THE DAILY REVEILLE
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2010
FAMOUS AMOS
Spring football practice will answer fall’s questions Spring is synonymous with cleaning in most places. For Tiger fans spring means football is back — kind of. Spring practice begins Friday and, after a second straight disappointing season, there are some questions Tiger fans hope will be answered. Who will step up and start as runningback? Seniors Charles Scott and Keiland Williams used their last year of eligibility in 2009. The duo led LSU in rushing yards in 2009 with 542 and 368 yards, respectively. Rising senior running back Richard Murphy, whose 2009 season was cut short with a knee injury, is one of the front runners for the position. Murphy has been sparsely used during his tenure as a Tiger because of the depth of the position. Most of his reps came via the Wildcat formation but with the backfield looking less clogged, Murphy could be the No. 1 back next season. Rising sophomore Stevan Ridley is the other front runner for the position. After injuries took Scott, Williams and Murphy out for the season, the Tigers turned to Ridley. He showed flashes of talent, but inexperience affected his performance. Ridley is a powerful back who is also agile. He could also make
a push to keep the starting job that was handed to him last season. Two five-star recruits who redshirted this past season, Michael Ford and Drayton Calhoun, could also factor in the running backs race. The running back position leads us to our next question for the spring practice: What is the team going to do to improve its rushing attack? The running game was painful to watch last season — it seemed like the backs barely had any space to work with when they got to the line of scrimmage. The Tigers only rushed 4 Amos Morale more yards than Sports Columnist South Carolina, a pass-first team that finished in last place in the Southeastern Conference in rushing in 2009. The poor rushing attack, 84th in the NCAA, brought the rest of the offense down with it. LSU will need to have improved play from its offensive line which includes a replacement for first team All-SEC left tackle Ciron Black. The offense was good at times, but they need more production in key moments. The final big question of the spring involves the SEC’s third-best defense in 2009.
Who is going to step up on defense? The Tigers lost six starters on defense and four of last season’s top five tacklers in Perry Riley, Harry Coleman, Jacob Cutrera and Chad Jones. To say these defensive replacements have big shoes to fill would be would not do the situation justice — they have warehouses to fill. Whoever earns the cornerback spot vacated by senior Chris Hawkins will have the added pressure of playing opposite the field of the best cornerback in college football, rising sophomore Patrick Peterson. Peterson covered his side of the field like icing covers a cake. Opponents do not test Peterson’s side of the field, and opposing teams’ quarterbacks will most certainly pick on whoever wins the other cornerback job this spring. The front runner for this job should be rising senior Jai Eugene. Eugene dramatically improved his play last season and could lock the job up this spring if he shows the coaching staff more improvement. The linebacking corps lost two starters and its top reserve in Cutrera. This unit has been consistently good for the past few seasons. Competitors for this position will have to build up the chemistry that worked so well together this past season. There is some returning
The Daily Reveille file photo
LSU fullback Stevan Ridley (34) tries to avoid Alabama defensive tackle Terrance Cody (62) in the Tigers’ 24-15 loss to the Crimson Tide on Nov. 7 in Tuscaloosa, Ala.
experience at the linebacker position, but it will be interesting to see what type of linebacker play the Tigers have this spring. Quite possibly the most important part of the defense is who shows to play on the defensive line. D-line U had a subpar year and needs to improve. The pressure will be on the defensive line when it should be on the other team’s quarterbacks. Spring practice will be
interesting this season and by the time the spring game rolls around some of these questions will be closer to being answered. Amos Morale is a 22-year-old history senior from Houston. Follow him on Twitter @TDR_amosmorale3.
Contact Amos Morale at amorale@lsureveille.com
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2010
THE DAILY REVEILLE
PAGE 9
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
LSU, Arkansas matchup has postseason implications
Lady Tigers won 3 of last 4 games By Michael Lambert Sports Contributor
The last two games of the Southeastern Conference women’s basketball season are mustwins for teams hovering around the .500 mark. Only four SEC women’s basketball teams from 1998-09 have made it to the NCAA tournament with a conference record below .500. The No. 20 LSU (18-8, 7-7) women’s basketball team can bolster its resumé with a win against possible-spoiler Arkansas (1215, 4-10) tonight at 8 p.m. in the PMAC for the Lady Tigers’ second to last game of the regular season. “We know the last two [games] are crucial for us,” said sophomore forward LaSondra Barrett. “We’re not thinking win the last two. We’re thinking [about] Arkansas.” The last time the Lady Tigers failed to make the NCAA tournament was the 1997-98 season. LSU currently sits in fifth place in the SEC. “We need to close this season playing well,” said LSU coach
Van Chancellor. “It’s a big game for us.” The top four conference teams receive a bye in the SEC tournament, which begins March 4 in Duluth, Ga. “The bye’s important,” Chancellor said. “When you play another game, you have a chance to lose another game. More important than a bye is how your team is playing.” Both LSU and Arkansas were riding three-game winning streaks before their most recent games. LSU rolled past Florida, Auburn and Vanderbilt but then fell to Tennessee on Monday night, 70-61. Arkansas lost to Alabama, 69-58, Sunday after beating Auburn, South Carolina and Ole Miss in its three previous competitions. “Arkansas is probably one of the most dangerous teams [in the SEC],” Chancellor said. “They’ve played really well lately. They are very capable.” Chancellor said the Lady Tigers still have momentum, even after the defeat to the Volunteers. “We still have our confidence up,” Chancellor said. “Our team feels good about itself.” The last matchup between LSU and Arkansas took place Jan. 7 at Bud Walton Arena, where the
Lady Tigers stuck it to the Razorbacks, 65-38, as four Lady Tigers scored in double figures. “We played them so long ago,” Chancellor said. “That game has no bearing on this one.” LSU has seen success when scoring is spread among three or more players. Four Lady Tigers recorded double-digit scoring nights in going-away victories against No. 25 Vanderbilt and Florida, compared to an overtime loss to No. 24 Georgia where only senior guard Allison Hightower recorded more than six points. And junior guard Katherine Graham has become a third offensive option for LSU. Graham scored 13 points at Tennessee on Monday and 15 points on Feb. 18 against Vanderbilt. “We’ve had to find a third scorer, and I think we found one in Katherine Graham,” Chancellor said. “We’ve got to have her step up and assert herself on offense.” LSU and Arkansas are on opposite ends of the SEC spectrum in scoring defense. The Lady Tigers are No. 1 in the conference, giving up 51.9 points per game, while the Razorbacks are ranked last, allowing 67.3 points. “We can’t worry about any of that,” Hightower said. “They don’t have any pressure on them. We can’t take them lightly at all.”
J.J. ALCANTARA / The Daily Reveille
LSU sophomore forward LaSondra Barrett (55) dribbles past Vanderbilt’s Jessica Mooney (20) in the Lady Tigers’ 55-39 win against the Commodores on Feb. 18.
Three Razorbacks average in double figures — senior guard Charity Ford and sophomore guards Lyndsay Harris and C’eira Ricketts. Ricketts and Barrett were SEC Co-Freshmen of the Year in 2008-09. They also were teammates on the gold medal winning
U.S. U19 team this past summer. “It’s a rivalry when we play each other, but when we were together [on the national team], we stuck together,” Barrett said. “She wants to beat us so bad.” Contact Michael Lambert at mlambert@lsureveille.com
Thursday, February 25, 2010
THE DAILY REVEILLE
PAGE 10
SOFTBALL
Tigers capture win against Lions in dominant fashion Eight-run rule ends game in five innings By Jarred LeBlanc Sports Contributor
Dominant might be the best way to describe the No. 16 LSU softball team’s 11-0 victory against Southeastern Louisiana in five innings last night. Because of the eight-run rule, the game ended after the fifth inning when the Tigers were leading 11-0. Sophomore first baseman Anissa Young had arguably her best game at the plate as a Tiger. She went 3-for-3 with five RBIs and two home runs. Her RBIs and home runs were both single-game career highs. “I’ve been working really hard trying to see better pitches, and that’s what I did,” Young said. “I just found my barrel today.” Southeastern Louisiana (3-6) batted first but never managed to get much going offensively and
ended the game with three hits. The Lions threatened in the top of the third but left runners stranded on second and third. The Tigers (8-4) jumped out to an early 6-0 lead in the bottom of the first inning and never looked back. After leadoff walks by senior center fielder Kirsten Shortridge and junior designated player Ashley Applegate, senior right fielder Rachel Mitchell hit a blooper over the shortstop’s head to score Shortridge. Young stood in next and smashed an RBI double down the left-field line to give the Tigers a 2-0 lead. That was the end of the game for Southeastern Louisiana sophomore pitcher Vicki Honeycutt, who earned the loss after facing four batters. Honeycutt pitched less than an inning, allowing two hits and four runs. An RBI walk from freshman catcher Lauren Houston and singles from Shortridge and junior third baseman Jessica Mouse added the
ERIN ARLEDGE / The Daily Reveille
Sophomore first baseman Anissa Young follows through on a swing Saturday in the Tigers 2-0 loss to Michigan in Tiger Park. Young batted 3-3 in Wednesday’s win.
other four runs for LSU in the inning. But the Tigers didn’t stop there. LSU tacked on three runs in the second inning. After a leadoff single by Mitchell, Young smashed a home run over the center-field wall to extend the lead to eight.
RUGBY
Club prepares for Texas match
Two batters later, sophomore second baseman Courtney Hollier hit a solo home run — her first home run of her career. LSU coach Yvette Girouard made some defensive changes for the Tigers in the top of the third inning and took out starting pitcher senior Cody Trahan and replaced
her with sophomore pitcher Brittany Mack. Trahan pitched two scoreless innings, gave up one hit and had three strikeouts. Following an Applegate walk in the bottom of the third inning, Young hit her second home run of the game. It was a towering shot over the left field wall, giving the Tigers the 11-0 lead. Mack (2-2) got the win from the circle. The Texas native pitched two innings, fanned two batters and allowed two hits and no runs. “We thought this should be a confident game and no one should be scoring on us,” Mack said. LSU finished with 10 total hits, 11 RBIs and only two strikeouts. “We were far more aggressive and composed at the plate, but we’re not seeing the same quality pitching we’ve been seeing,” Girouard said.
Contact Jarred LeBlanc at jleblanc@lsureveille.com
BUZZ KILL
Win would clinch playoff spot for LSU By Cory Boudreaux Sports Contributor
Football isn’t the only sport that requires speed, physicality and determination. Such attributes have propelled the LSU rugby club to a No. 4 ranking in the American Rugby News Top 25 collegiate rankings. The club has a chance to build on its poll position, as well its 8-1 record, when it hosts conference rival Texas on Saturday. Game time is scheduled for 2 p.m. at the UREC Sport and Adventure Complex. A win against Texas guarantees LSU one of the top two spots in the final standings of its division, the Texas Rugby Union. LSU will also clinch a spot in the Western Conference playoffs, which LSU will host March 27-28, with a victory. If momentum is an indicator of confidence, LSU should have plenty of both as it prepares for Saturday’s contest. The squad has won its last two division games by an average victory margin of 72 points. Its five-game winning streak includes last Saturday’s 88-3 victory against Sam Houston State, as well as a 65-5 win against Texas when the squads met for the first time Feb. 6 in Austin, Texas. Club president and senior forward Cody Cadella said the team has remained focused on getting better to prevent a possible letdown despite LSU’s convincing victory in its first matchup against Texas. “We have been playing well
JEFFREY PHELPS / The Associated Press
Hornets forward David West is fouled by Bucks’ Luc Richard Mbah a Moute on Wednesday during the Hornets loss in Milwaukee.
ERIN ARLEDGE / The Daily Reveille
Bobby Johns, business administration senior and a captain of the LSU rugby team, practices on UREC fields to prepare for Saturday’s game against Texas.
as of late, but we don’t look at our recent wins as perfect victories,” Cadella said. “We focus on where we need to improve and what we need to fix for when we face a better team.” Junior forward Cullen Glennon, said LSU’s ability to control the pace and tempo against Texas will determine the Tigers’ success in the game. He also said while LSU might be somewhat undersized in comparison to other teams around the country, he views LSU’s lack of stature as an advantage because it allows the team to utilize its speed and conditioning. “We always look to impose our own personality during a game,” Glennon said. “We want to keep the field wide open and use our athleticism to our advantage.” Cadella said the up-tempo approach was paramount to the success LSU experienced this season.
“Our forwards are faster than those of most teams,” he said. “There have been games where as we are walking off the field, the opposing team will come to us and say, ‘It’s really hard to catch you guys.’” He also credits the club’s performance with the tenacity of players like Glennon, as well as the offensive contributions from backs such as Robert Johns and American Rugby News All-American Adam Ducoing, whom Cadella describes as “essential” to the squad’s success. “Cullen is our leading tackler and a vital part of our team,” Cadella said. “Our backs are some of the best in the country. Everyone of them is always a threat to score.” Contact Cory Boudreaux at cboudreaux@lsureveille.com
Today’s KLSU Specialty Shows: 8pm – 9pm: Greek Show; 9 pm – 11 pm: I Want My KLSU!; 11 pm – 1 am: The Kitchen Sink
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2010
Entertainment
As roller derby sees a rise in popularity, a Baton Rouge team packs stadiums
PAGE 11
FASHION
‘Runway’ finalist to appear at Mall of La.
Momolu promoting Dillard’s line By Matthew Jacobs Entertainment Writer
ERIN ARLEDGE / The Daily Reveille
(Left to Right) Rock Bottom #00 blocker, Abita Hoedown #08 jammer and Sigga Please #45 Colt team captain practice for their upcoming bout on Saturday, February 27 at 6 pm. The bout will be their second home bout and will be held in the Baton Rouge River Center.
Get Your Roll On
founded Red Stick Roller Derby in July 2007, but it took time for the group to take off. “It took a year and a half before we When University alumna Mary Koehler stumbled across a picture on had our first bout,” Koehler said. “But at our [most recent bout the Internet of a roller derin January], we had a by team, she couldn’t have packed house.” imagined she’d become a Red Stick Rollmember of a league that er Derby will domisells out tickets and packs Log on to see players nate again Saturday arenas. as they return to the But she and her roller discussing Baton Rouge Rivderby teammates are now their sport. er Center for their selling more than 1,000 second home bout this year, tickets per bout. Koehler — who graduated from the University in 2009 — DERBY, see page 13 By Matthew Jacobs Entertainment Writer
lsureveille.com
Baton Rouge residents will have the opportunity to meet a reality star fashionista today. Korto Momolu, a finalist from season five of “Project Runway,” will be at the Mall of Louisiana from noon to 2 p.m, according to Momolu’s official Facebook fan page. Momolu will appear in a meet and greet as part of a tour to promote the launch of her Dillard’s fashion line. She will appear in malls around the country throughout the spring. Becky Adams, Dillard’s assistant store manager, said the “Runway” finalist will have pictures available to sign and will be promoting her items. “People who were fans of the show will recognize her fashions,” Adams said. “Her new line has jewelry and handbags.” Momolu is a native of Monrovia, Liberia. She studied fashion design at the L’Academies des Couturiers Design Institute in Ottawa, Ontario, according to the biography on her Web site. Momolu will also appear at the Lakeside Shopping Center in Metairie on Friday from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Contact Matthew Jacobs at mjacobs@lsureveille.com
WELLNESS
I <3 Me Fashion Show promotes positive body image for students Awareness Week puts focus on health By Elizabeth Clausen Entertainment Writer
Airbrushing, Photoshop and expert lighting help make celebrities appear flawless for magazine covers and ads. But Hope McPhatter wants to show students the perfect images are misleading. Students paraded the latest
fashions at the fourth annual I <3 ME Fashion Show on Tuesday in the Live Oak Lounge in commemoration of National Eating Disorders Awareness Week. The show promotes positive body image by featuring models with realistic body types. “What today’s media and society considers to be beautiful — it’s all the same,” said McPhatter, Wellness Education coordinator in the Student Health Center. “We want to do something different and show people that it’s OK to be what you are.” The show featured 20 models of a wide range of sizes, shapes, colors and ages.
Britney Haydel, biological sciences senior, said she chose to participate in the show because she agrees with the message. “Loving your body no matter what shape or size you are — it’s something everyone could afford to do,” Haydel said. The University participated in the American College Health Association’s National College Health Assessment survey in spring 2008. Of the 715 randomly selected respondents, 1.3 percent reported experiencing anorexia in the previous SHOW, see page 13
NICOLE KARAMICHAEL / The Daily Reveille
Student models answer questions following the Wellness Education Department’s I <3 Me Fashion Show in the Live Oak Lounge of the Student Union Feb. 23 as part of National Eating Disorders Awareness Week.
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THE DAILY REVEILLE
MUSIC
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2010
CULTURE
Meriwether hosts ‘Jersey Shore’– Manship Theatre to themed show Friday at Varsity host night of French Digital release of food, wine, cinema album set for March By Chris Abshire Entertainment Writer
Popular local rock act Meriwether will be promoting the “Jersey Shore” GTL (gym, tan, laundry) lifestyle at the Varsity on Friday night. The band, along with supporting acts The Vettes and Leaving Brightside, is hosting a themed party centered around the popular MTV reality show and the band members will dress the part along with the crowd. “If the crowd’s going to be in costume, we’ll be just as ridiculous with them,” drummer Sam Anderson said. “We’ll be up onstage with the blowout hair and the popped collars having a blast. It’s gonna be one big party.” Meriwether is not averse to novelty ideas for their shows — they hosted a Zombie Halloween party in Lafayette last year. “My wife actually wanted to host a party at our house with the ‘Jersey Shore’ theme, so we used that idea and put it up for a vote against a few other choices on our Twitter and Facebook,” Anderson said. “Our fans gave
us some positive feedback for ‘Jersey Shore’ night and we went with it.” The band recently released “Plug in the Snakes” in the fall — their follow-up album to 2005’s acclaimed “Make Your Move.” “Snakes” was only made available in limited physical pressings. The album of edgy, grownup rock is now slated to receive wide digital release in March. The band professes to have no grand motives in waiting so long to put out the album in a digital format but does promise fans it will be worth the wait. “We honestly sort of rushed the physical version out, so in a lot of ways it was unfinished, which caused us to go back and remaster the songs and make some production changes to them and add, I think, two remixes to the digital release,” said lead vocalist Andrew Reilley. “The digital copy is actually a completely different product.” Reilley noted the second record’s aggressive sound should have fans fist-pumping like champs all night Friday to the music. “The songs take on a whole new life because they are so highenergy and fun to play, so they translate really well for a live
crowd,” Reilley said. The band has played at the Varsity numerous times during the last several years, but Anderson said the local support never fails to inspire. “Our fans here are just so amazing and dedicated, so a night like this is a way to show them a different side of us during our concerts and maybe even connect with other people who may not have heard us while they have a great time,” Anderson said. Reilley said the “guido” getups and hairstyles the show is likely to attract will add spice to the performance. “[The show] is just a way for us to loosen up as a band and reward our fans for their support,” Reilley said. “Plus, I can’t wait to see some of the outrageous stuff people will have on.” Meriwether’s high-octane set serves as an oddly fitting complement to a night of fist-pumping and tanned, gelled guidos and guidettes. “Everybody gets to let loose and just play guido for a night,” Anderson said. The show begins at 9 p.m and tickets are $10. Contact Chris Abshire at cabshire@lsureveille.com
All-night festival ends with breakfast By Matthew Jacobs Entertainment Writer
Students will have the opportunity to experience a night of French culture this weekend without leaving Baton Rouge. The University Center for French and Francophone Studies will host its fifth annual Night of French Cinema at 6 p.m. Friday. The event features an all-night festival showcasing four popular films exhibiting French culture with food and wine served between each showing. The program has recently become a tradition for the University and Baton Rouge community and is a soirée intended to serve as a send-up to French traditions. Night of French Cinema will
be held at the Manship Theatre at the Shaw Center for the Arts on Lafayette Street. The festival will conclude at 6 a.m. Saturday with a French breakfast of croissants, baguettes and coffee. Admission for the event is $20 for the general public and $10 for students. Todd Jacob, assistant director of the Center for French and Francophone Studies, said the experience appeals not just to students but to many local residents. “It’s a big thing in that it’s a rare international moment in Baton Rouge,” Jacob said. “It’s more than just food and films. It encompasses many aspects of French culture.” Students can visit manshiptheatre.org for a list of scheduled events, including which movies will be shown. Contact Matthew Jacobs at mjacobs@lsureveille.com
THE DAILY REVEILLE
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2010 DERBY, from page 11
but the ladies of RSRD are adding an interesting twist to this month’s match. Saturday’s bout will be an “intra-league matchup,” according to the team’s Facebook event page. The team members will divide into two teams — the Blackhearts and the Heartbreakers — and battle each other. It’s a charity match that will benefit the American Heart Association in honor of American Heart Month. Koehler, whose skater name is “Zarathrustya” — a take on the name of an ancient Iranian prophet — said the team is amazed at how much attention they’ve caught. “It’s such a new and foreign thing to people in this town,” Koehler said. “But we feed off the football mania here. It’s just as competitive.” HEADSTRONG PLAYING Roller derby consists of 10 players on the court at a time. A player referred to as the jammer acts as the point-scorer for the team. A “jam” is a two-minute period in which the players work together to help the jammer through the opposing team’s pack to the front to score points. Brad Smulyan, University theater professor and head referee under the derby name “Skunkrolla,” said roller derby is fast-paced and hardhitting. “I have yet to see one girl get hurt during a bout and not get back up and keep playing,” Smulyan said. Nicole Staudenmaier, known to her derby teammates as “Panda Scare,” said the sport is for strong women who know who they want to be. “People think it’s like it was in the ’70s when roller derby was staged and people threw punches,” Staudenmaier said. “It’s not. It’s a real sport, not just entertainment.” STRENGTH IN NUMBERS In addition to strong bonds within the team, the Red Stick Roller Derby members are proud of the way their group has grown since its inception in 2007. January’s sell-out bout was a surprising turnout, said Amie Hargrave, an experienced roller derby player known as “ZoomTang.” “It’s not just us,” Hargrave said. “I’ve heard from many other teams that say they’ve never seen as big of a derby bout.” Staudenmaier said the number of Red Stick players has also grown as roller derby becomes more mainstream. “We started out at six girls,” Staudenmaier said. “Now we have about 40.” WHIP IT And roller derby has gained national significance thanks to the media’s portrayal of the sport’s comeback. A&E ran a series in 2006 that helped jumpstart the revival of roller derby’s stature. “Rollergirls” was a 13-episode series that depicted the lives of an Austin, Texas-based roller derby
7:20 a.m., 8:20 a.m. Noon, 3:20 p.m. 4:20 p.m., 5:20 p.m.
league. Last year, Drew Barrymore directed and starred in “Whip It,” a critically-acclaimed film with Ellen Page as a small-town teenager who joins a roller derby team. Staudenmaier said “Whip It” refocused people’s attention to the roller derby scene. “Our team definitely doubled after ‘Whip It,’” Staudenmaier said. “The movie showed what roller derby’s all about. It’s about being a badass, but not an asshole.” BOUTS OF FUN The ladies of Red Stick Roller Derby may put on their competitive game faces during bouts, but they say they enjoy themselves on and off the roller derby court. Staudenmaier said the opportunity to know her teammates is the best part of being involved. “Knowing these girls is the most amazing part of roller derby,” Staudenmaier said. “Everyone wants each other to learn and succeed.” Hargrave said she values the bonds she has formed with her derby sisters. “I haven’t been this close to this many people at one time in a long time,” Hargrave said. “And I love that.” The ladies also are able to express their personalities with eclectic uniforms that consist of brightly colored tights and bold accessories. A FAMILY AFFAIR The women credit the sport as a high-energy contact sport, but they take pride in the fact that bouts are fun events for spectators of all ages. Staudenmaier said it appeals to adults, college students and children alike. “If you’re older, you can go, have a beer, enjoy the bands at halftime,” Staudenmaier said. “But you can also bring your little brother, and he’ll have a ball.” And the $12 ticket prices provide an inexpensive, fun way for people to find something new to do in Baton Rouge, Staudenmaier said. “That’s about the price of a [movie],” Staudenmaier said. “This is something different, out of the ordinary, new and fun.” Contact Matthew Jacobs at mjacobs@lsureveille.com
SHOW, from page 11
year, and 1.9 percent reported experiencing bulimia. Models answered questions from the audience after the show about how they each overcame their struggles with self image. “Hopefully the people [at the show] found someone they could relate to and say, ‘That person is comfortable with their size, and maybe I can be comfortable with mine,’” McPhatter said. “It inspires confidence.” Clothes were provided by Buckle in the Mall of Louisiana, and the hairstyles were by Vanguard College, a Paul Mitchell Partner School. Ashley Prescott, assistant manager at Buckle, said people can be fashionable no matter what their body type. She said her store offers a fitting service and puts together outfits for customers. The I <3 ME model sizes ranged from 2 to 16 for women and up to
size 42-inch waist size for men. Kendrea Harris, English junior and model at the show, said she liked the diversity I <3 ME featured. “Major fashion industry designers pick only tall people or people with perfect skin,” Harris said. “So other people might feel like it kills their dream of being a model.” Some of the show’s models were personally affected by eating disorders or body image issues in the past, and they shared their stories as they showed off their newfound confidence. Anthony Saliba, biochemistry freshman, participated in the show to raise awareness. He said it’s not easy to tell when someone has an eating disorder — something he knows from personal experience with friends. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, eating disorders usually develop during adolescence or early adulthood, making them especially common in college students.
PAGE 13
Vanessa Richard, dietician at Wellness Education, said eating disorders are a reality at the University. “Eating disorders are not a choice,” she said. “They’re a disease just like any other kind of addiction. It’s not just about food.” Eating disorders are the deadliest mental illness, with serious consequences that affect every system of the body, Richard said. Wellness Education will host a seminar tonight on intervention strategies for disordered eating from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in Room 225 of Peabody Hall. “Society has a view of what beauty is,” said McPhatter. “And we’re just trying to show that beauty comes in all sizes.” Follow Elizabeth Clausen on Twitter @TDR_EClausen. Contact Elizabeth Clausen at eclausen@lsureveille.com
THE DAILY REVEILLE
PAGE 14
REVEILLE Ranks
MUSIC MOVIES BOOKS TELEVISION
“Minor Love” Adam Green
“Separation of “This Addiction” Church & Fate” Alkaline Trio Death On Two Wheels
Epitaph Records
Former Moldy Peaches singer Adam Green continues his solo career with his latest anti-folk release, “Minor Love.” The songs are musically simplistic, and the lyrics aren’t amazing either — how and why he worked the word “flatulent” into two of the songs’ choruses is incomprehensible. Green’s vocals are more like speaking than actual singing, as he delivers one wry bit of sarcasm after another. But the joke quickly wears thin. His influences are obvious — he would sound exactly like Lou Reed if Reed had no talent and wrote terrible music.
The Ghost Umbrella/Favorite Gentlemen
The five songs from this second release from the Atlanta rockers have a soft edge that will find a wide audience. The first track and single, “Calling Us All Back Home,” is easily the standout of the EP. It’s light on instrumentals, heavy on voice. The effect is pleasantly mellow and calming. The song features a vocal solo at first, but it picks up and hits its stride when two other singers join. All the songs sound very similar, featuring a gravelly voice, guitar and sweet — if not especially creative — lyrics about love.
Alkaline Trio returns after the failed mainstream experiment of 2008’s “Agony and Irony” by revisiting its early punk roots. Unfortunately, this back-tobasics approach feels forced, and the band never really recaptures the quality pop-punk sound for which it was once known. The songs are often completely uninspiring despite lively attempts by the band to sound urgent and earnest. There are a few memorable hooks and soaring anthems on “This Addiction,” but too often Alkaline Trio struggles to find an original and appealing edge.
ELIZABETH CLAUSEN
LAUREN COUMES
CHRIS ABSHIRE
Rough Trade Records
[D] [B-] [C-]
“One Life Stand” “Percy Jackson “Shutter Island” Paramount Pictures and the Hot Chip EMI Olympians: The Lightning Thief” In true Martin Scorcese London quintet Hot Chip’s soft dance sound gets softer on its fourth album, “One Life Stand.” The boys maintain their likable distinctive sound, but they fail to meet the danceable success of previous album “Made in the Dark.” “Stand” offers a few gems (“Hand Me Down Your Love” and “Alley Cats”), but Hot Chip neglects to offer the quantity of essential tracks “Dark” did.
log on to read the full review at lsureveille.com
MATTHEW JACOBS
Sunswept Entertainment
“Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief” is like Harry Potter meets Greek mythology with a dash of “Twilight.” The film has Percy Jackson, Poseidon’s demigod son, in a quest to return Zeus’ lightning bolt and save his own mother from Hades. It has all the makings for a blockbuster hit, including a star-studded cast of Uma Thurman, Pierce Brosman, Rosario Dawson and others. log on to read the full review at lsureveille.com
KIEU TRAN
fashion, this dramatic thriller is sure to keep viewers on edge. He has learned how to create something truly gripping in this film after teaming with lead actor Leonardo DiCaprio for three previous films. Scorcese is a master depicting the deterioration of the human psyche (see “Taxi Driver”), but “Shutter Island” falls into some of the same motions of his previous films. log on to read the full review at lsureveille.com
BEN BOURGEOIS
[B-] [B-] [B+]
Editor’s Pick Jay Electronica Rap artist Control Freaq Records
Everything about the way Jay Electronica represents New Orleans rap is different. He’s a product of the Magnolia Projects, but he’s no Juvenile. He’s not interested in “azzes” or “shining every summer.” log on to read the full review at lsureveille.com
SARAH LAWSON
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2010
THE DAILY REVEILLE
Thursday, February 25, 2010 WIN, from page 1
messing with our psyche. Hopefully we’ll have some momentum going into the next game.” The lead didn’t fade. The gap got as high as 15, with LSU taking a 33-18 lead into the break. Mitchell led the effort with 12 points at the break, while seven other Tigers scored in what was arguably LSU’s best half of the season. “We came out with a good spurt and had a good lead,” Mitchell said. “We didn’t want to let that get away from us.” It didn’t stop there. Playing well for 20 minutes had been LSU’s synopsis for the entire season, but again, tonight was different. “A few minutes into the second half, I started feeling like we were going to pull it out,” Mitchell said. He almost spoke too soon. The Razorbacks finally made their run with about a minute left in the game. Behind sophomore guard Courtney Fortson, Arkansas closed the game to eight points with 52 seconds remaining. Fans and players alike started to get anxious. LSU held fast. Spencer fired in four-straight free throws to ice the game. “That’s basketball,” Mitchell said. “A big lead can be taken from you real fast. We jumped out early, but we knew everybody makes their run at some point. It was up to us to stay poised, stay with the game plan and win the game.” Freshman guard Daron Populist, a walk on, helped the Tigers keep calm down the stretch. Relentless pressure from the Razorbacks didn’t faze him much. “I think a guy who was really effective tonight for us was Daron Populist,” Johnson said. “He remains to be under control, remains poised. He does an excellent job on scout team for us.” Populist accepted the praise gracefully. “It feels good,” Populist said.
“I’m humbled. I’m just glad to get this win and move on to the next game.” The defense, for the most part, paved the way for the LSU win. LSU’s zone defense blanketed Razorback junior guard Rotnei Clarke and Fortson — normally lethal threats from 3-point range — for most of the contest. “Whether it’s a zone or a man, I think we’ve gotten better because of our intensity and our effort,” Johnson said. “Getting to shooters, proper closeouts, things that are repetition, it was only a matter of time before this young team figured it out.” LSU sophomore forward Storm Warren proved to be crucial to thwarting Arkansas’ firepower. Warren finished with five steals and three blocks to go along with eight points. “We just never quit,” Warren said. “We just keep coming.” The Tiger effort was sparkling for the third-straight game. An embarrassing 35-point loss against this same Arkansas team just 14 days ago proved to be rock bottom for LSU. “I was really curious to see how we were going to be today,” Johnson said. “Were we going to come out like we did against Vanderbilt and Mississippi State and compete? We did.”
Contact Chris Branch at cbranch@lsureveille.com
FASTBALL, from page 7
prized hints, and it appeared to work.” Dean said neither he nor Gibbs would reveal the “hints” between them. “He’s always had it in him. He’s a big guy with a lot of power; it’s just finally coming out,” Dean said. “I talked to him a little bit before he went up there to hit, and it obviously worked. It’s a secret thing.” McNeese State used seven total pitchers on the night, with junior Zach Butler taking the loss. Gibbs said rotating pitchers so often was a strategy that made it difficult for LSU hitters to get into a rhythm. “You have to stay focused because they’re bringing in different guys with different arm angles,” he said. “You have to battle when you’re up there.” LSU got a sparkling pitching performance from sophomore Chris Matulis, who took over for starter Daniel Bradshaw in the fourth inning. Matulis pitched five innings and allowed four hits and no runs with five strikeouts. Matulis threw 71 pitches Wednesday, and he said movement in his pitching was crucial. “We were doing a good mix of in-and-out and up-and-down
PAGE 15
and changing eye levels,” Matulis said. “[Associate head] coach [David] Grewe does a great job pitch-calling.” Mainieri called Matulis “the story of the game,” and he said LSU and McNeese State fought each other until the end. “It was one of those games where it was a shame either team had to lose,” Mainieri said. “McNeese State was our equal. They gave us everything we wanted and more.” McNeese State left two runners on base in the top of the ninth inning after LSU sophomore closer Matty Ott allowed back-toback singles, but a running catch by sophomore left fielder Trey Watkins sealed the game. The Cowboys took the lead in the first inning on a double by sophomore right fielder Lee Orr that drove in senior third baseman Steven Irvine. LSU finally got on the board in the bottom of the fifth inning when Dean hit an RBI single to drive in Watkins. Contact Rachel Whittaker at rwhittaker@lsureveille.com
TACKLE, from page 7
thing we won’t let him do in spring is be tackled. I’m enjoying Ford’s academic improvement. That’s a great sign of maturity.” Defensively, Miles said he will stick with the scheme from last season with a few possible position adjustments. “We still very much enjoy the fact that we can get some push up front and big ole seams in there,” Miles said. Miles said rising senior Jai Eugene could move to safety, and rising sophomore defensive back Craig Loston will “vie for playing time.” On the coaching side, a vacancy still exists at the position of tight ends coordinator from when Don Yanowsky departed for Memphis. “I have interviewed a number of guys, and we feel there will be a great candidate forthcoming,” Miles said. “We will have taken good time to make a quality hire.”
Contact Rachel Whittaker at rwhittaker@lsureveille.com
THE DAILY REVEILLE
Opinion
PAGE 16
OUR VIEW
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Gov. Jindal’s tuition proposal will ease budget problems While students were concerned with Tuesday’s hijinx in the Quad, Governor Bobby Jindal was holding a press conference announcing the LA GRAD program. Jindal’s plan would allow state universities to gradually raise tuition without needing to seek the approval of the Legislature. Universities would be allowed to autonomously raise tuition by 5 percent per year after meeting certain requirements — including increasing graduation rates, eliminating
programs with low completion rates and increasing collaboration with two-year colleges. A two-thirds vote of the legislature is currently required to raise tuition. Louisiana is the only state that has this restriction. Jindal’s plan is a commendable balance of caution and progress. It will allow the University the freedom to raise revenue buttressing against the campus budget cuts causing program cuts and reduced services.
It’s also important to remember Louisiana universities charge significantly less than equivalent institutions in the rest of the Southeast — this program will allow LSU to raise funds to compete academically. Of course, students and their parents have reason to be concerned. Paying more for a college education is a scary prospect — especially while emerging from a recession. But these changes will be a
huge step toward preventing budget cut-related chaos. And Jindal’s plan will not allow any sudden or drastic increases in costs. The plan allows for universities to raise 10 percent annually. Once they meet the average costs of regional schools, they will only be able to raise costs by 5 percent. LSU, as the flagship university, will be expected to meet the average for other flagship schools — this means this campus will take its rightful place as the centerpiece
of our higher education programs, both in terms of funding and in terms of increased admission standards and graduation rates. All in all, LA GRAD is a clever way to increase the quality of Louisiana’s higher education in a measured, responsible fashion — so we strongly support it.
Contact the Editorial Board at editor@lsureveille.com
AGE OF DELIGHTENMENT
Pageants, reality TV let us judge others guilt-free One of the few reality TV shows I watch is “Toddlers & Tiaras.” There is something grotesquely fabulous about tiny children, usually girls, prancing around in tacky, thousand-dollar outfits, fake hair and fake teeth. There are essentially two reasons I watch pageant shows. A former prissy little girl myself, I empathize with the few girls who genuinely love having their hair and makeup done and wearing sparkly dresses. But I also Sara Boyd take some sick Columnist pleasure in harshly judging the parents and grandparents who force their children to participate in pageants even though their kids are clearly uncomfortable on stage and unhappy with the entire process. Full disclosure: My fascination with this show, and this column about it, is probably (like most things I do) just about me. When I was 17, I was in a local pageant — or “scholarship program” as it would probably prefer to be called — for high school juniors. It wasn’t something I would have done on my own, but my mom won the pageant when she was my age, and it was important to her that I compete in it. My mother wasn’t like the “pageant moms” on shows like “Toddlers & Tiaras.” She never forced me to do anything I was unwilling to do, and she knew the financial sacrifice for participating in a pageant was greater than any winnings would be. She genuinely believed this particular pageant was different
than the rest, focused on a girl’s “inner beauty” as much as her outer beauty, and that this pageant could have a really positive impact on any participant’s self-esteem. I was doubtful about all that “be your best self” business going into the pageant. And now I’m sure that if pageants are good for anything, it’s encouraging you not to be yourself, but to conform to society’s antiquated idea of the perfect woman. All pageants are demeaning — and a little bit perverse. But I figured wearing pretty dresses and doing a little song and dance was the least I could do for the woman who was always willing to do anything for me. And I’d do it again, knowing how happy and proud it made her. The children on reality shows about pageants seem to be participating in pageants for similar reasons, though on a scarier scale. The parents are exponentially more excited and serious about competing than the children, who often say things like “I do pageants because it makes Mommy happy.” But your life shouldn’t revolve around what makes your parents happy when you’re that young. Many parents even bribe their children with toys and candy to make them more agreeable during the pageants. It’s one thing to make your kids eat their vegetables or wear clothes when they’d rather not. Sexualizing little girls — and paying them with Barbies or Twizzlers to coerce them into going along with it — is an entirely different matter. Perhaps the saddest part is that it makes for some damn entertaining television. The parents get a kick out of having their chil-
THE DAILY REVEILLE Editorial Board NICHOLAS PERSAC JERIT ROSER GERRI SAX ELLEN ZIELINSKI MATTHEW ALBRIGHT
Editor Managing Editor, Content Managing Editor, External Media Managing Editor, Production Opinion Editor
dren judged, and I get a kick out of judging those parents. Maybe that’s the true appeal of reality TV. It lets us indulge in the worst of ourselves or things we’re ashamed to love (like playing dress-up, or “guidos”) without opening ourselves up to the same
criticism we’re so quick to dole out. That seems much healthier than getting a wig and a spray tan, and singing “Colors of the Wind” in a skimpy outfit for a bunch of dirty old men.
Sara Boyd is a 23-year-old general studies senior from Baton Rouge. Follow her on Twitter @TDR_sboyd. Contact Sara Boyd at sboyd@lsureveille.com
MISS-SKETCHED
LACYE BEAUREGARD / The Daily Reveille
EDITORIAL POLICIES & PROCEDURES The Daily Reveille (USPS 145-800) is written, edited and produced solely by students of Louisiana State University. The Daily Reveille is an independent entity within the Manship School of Mass Communication. Signed opinions are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of the editor, paper or University. Letters submitted for publication should be sent via e-mail to opinion@lsureveille.com or delivered to B-26 Hodges Hall. They must be 400 words or less. Letters must have a contact phone number so the opinion editor can verify the author. The phone number won’t be printed. The Daily Reveille reserves the right to edit letters and guest columns for space consideration without changing the original intent. The Daily Reveille also reserves the right to reject any letter without notification of the author. Writers must include their full names and phone numbers. The Daily Reveille’s editor-in-chief, hired every semester by the Louisiana State University Media Board, has final authority on all editorial decisions.
QUOTE OF THE DAY “There are two kinds of people: those who finish what they start and so on.”
Robert Byrne American humorist April 20, 1928 — present
THE DAILY REVEILLE
Thursday, February 25, 2010
PRESS X to not die
Opinion
PAGE 17
2K Sports pitches gamers million-dollar challenge
I pose a simple question to you today: Do you want one million dollars? I know I sure do — who doesn’t? There are various ways you could go about doing this. You could win the lottery, rob a bank, spend 39 days surviving on an island or even put up with Meredith Vieira asking you questions for 30 minutes. But what if I told you there was a way for you to become a millionaire with your rear end firmly planted on the couch? Well, my friend, I hope you’re a fan of virtual baseball, because 2K Sports is giving you this golden opportunity. Recently 2K Sports, a subsidiary of Take-Two Interactive, issued a million-dollar challenge involving its upcoming video game, “MLB 2K10.” The rules are simple: Be the first to pitch a perfect game, and become a millionaire. Seems too easy, right?
For those unfamiliar with the sport of baseball, a perfect game involves the pitcher not allowing a base to anyone who steps up to the plate, either by striking them out or by receiving help from his fielders. No hits, no walks and no errors — 27 men up, 27 men down. As a large skeptic, I figured there was some big catch to make this challenge undoable, and 2K Sports was using this as some lame marketing ploy to sell its new game. But my skepticism just got knocked out of the park after reading the press release and official rules of the contest. “Our revamped pitching mechanic gives you more feel and control than ever before,” boasts 2K Sports’ Web site, “So we’re issuing a little challenge. Be the first to pitch a perfect game in Major League Baseball 2K10 ... and you can win $1,000,000.” The company claims it’s taken its game “to the next level” and is
putting its money where its mouth is. The only real catch I could find in the contest is you must complete the challenge on either the Xbox 360 or PlayStation 3 (sorry Wii owners) and you have from the game’s release date, next Tuesday, March 2, until 11:59 P.M. on May 1. The game must Adam Arinder be played on “All-Star” diffiColumnist culty setting and must either be recorded with a video camera or recording device with the footage sent to 2K Sports. Most companies would find some loophole to not pay the winner their earnings, 2K Sports expects to pay the full million sometime in that two-month span. “I would be shocked if someone doesn’t get it,” Chris Snyder,
2K Sports’ director of marketing, told video game blog Kotaku. “It’s very doable. It’s been budgeted for.” With lackluster baseball games in the past, 2K Sports knew it had to do something to get the franchise back on track. And this is one hell of a marketing strategy 2K is trying out. Coming from someone who loves video games, but isn’t too keen on baseball, I’m actually showing some interest in purchasing the game. The recent success of LSU baseball has me starting to show more interest in the sport. And with no proper college baseball video game, “MLB 2K10” might actually win me over. But in all honesty, I probably won’t purchase the game. Unfortunately wouldn’t have time to play it because of all the other great games coming out — plus my other timekiller known as school. Let alone get ridiculously good at the game
to beat veterans of the “MLB 2K” series for that million-dollar prize. But who’s to say others won’t take that leap and make “MLB 2K10” their first baseball videogame purchase? The company will definitely see a rise in sales because of this challenge, and one of those sales will make someone’s bank account increase by six zeroes. But I can’t say that it will be mine. But hey, with all this clicker nonsense in the classroom, I’d be a shoe-in to win if I ever found myself sitting across Meredith on “Who Wants to be a Millionaire?” Right? Adam Arinder is a 20-year-old communication studies major from Baton Rouge. Follow him on Twitter @TDR_aarinder. Contact Adam Arinder at aarinder@lsureveille.com
THE GRUMBLING HIVE
Missionaries’ ends don’t justify reprehensible means
Life is colored in shades of gray. Nothing is entirely right or wrong. And the ends often do seem to justify the means. Does the desire to help Haitian children in distress justify 10 Baptist missionaries’ intentional search for non-orphaned children to fill their orphanage? Nathan Shull They enColumnist tered Haiti to help children suffering in the aftermath of a horrific natural disaster. This is a noble cause. But their actions display the arrogance and ignorance for which Americans are so often accused overseas. All 33 “orphans” the missionaries attempted to transport to the Dominican Republic “have close family still alive,” The Associated Press reported Sunday. Many of these children were willingly handed over by their parents or relatives in hopes of securing a better and healthier life. Some of the parents claim they were told the children would receive an education and better care. Such promises are quite persuasive in a distressed and povertystricken country. But the resources spent to remove these children were wasted because of the lack of awareness and foresight in an environment rife with violations of children’s human rights. “We can’t talk any more about trafficking of human beings,” the missionaries’ attorney, Aviol Fleurant, told reporters. Apparently no law was broken because the parents testified they
gave permission. The 10 missionaries may not have commited a crime. And their intentions may have been true, honest and noble. But to set up an orphanage and recruit children from the slums without following the proper legal channels or doing the research necessary to ensure safe and successful passage is irresponsible and, frankly, stupid. To assert these children were in fact orphans — while fully knowing they had parents or close relatives alive — is reprehensible. Laura Silsby, leader of the missionary group, lied to the AP on Jan. 31, claiming all the children being transported had either been with distant relatives or were actually orphans, indicates even she knew the methods employed were unethical. Maletid Desilien, a mother in the Citron slums in Haiti, is overcome with grief. She is distraught from the belief she will never see her children again. She and her husband, Dieulifanne Desilien, handed over their four children to the missionaries. The youngest is 3 months old. As a Christian, I am ashamed by the arrogance with which we travel the globe without clearly understanding the consequences of our “loving actions.” Did God call these missionaries to convince living parents to relinquish their children? A child told Jeanne Bernard Pierre, director of Haiti’s social welfare agency, that “when they come knocking on our door asking for children, my mom decided to give me away because we are six children and by giving me away she would have only five kids to care for,” according to the AP.
Perhaps I don’t fully understand the dynamics of working with children in Haiti, where such devastation defies our comprehension. Pastor Jean Sainvil, a Haitian minister based in Atlanta, Ga., helped gather these children. He explained to the AP that “more than half of the 380,000 children living in Haiti’s orphanages” have living parents who could not care for them. There are many ways to create a meaningful impact in dire situations. Direct intervention and personal involvement often accom-
plishes the greatest influence when funds are limited. But to operate in such a capacity, it is imperative that any actions are completely planned and their consequences fully considered. It is unfair to the children and parents to hatch a half baked plan which falls apart, leaving everyone in a worse position. To enter a foreign country and attempt to remove children without official permission is arrogant and ignorant — especially when the international community is closely watching for human trafficking and the Haitian government is closely
monitoring adoption issues. A crucifix hanging around your neck doesn’t give you a license to rashly attempt to solve humanity’s problems without regard for laws, customs or the repercussions of your failure. Nathan Shull is a 35-year-old finance junior from Seattle. Follow him on Twitter @TDR_nshull.
Contact Nathan Shull at nshull@lsureveille.com
TOON-A-HOLIC
CAMERON COODY / The Daily Reveille
THE DAILY REVEILLE
Classifieds
PAGE 18
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Help Wanted DENTAL OFFICE with friendly staff & doctor needs scheduling secretary M-TH 1-5. Must be able to work all four afternoons 225.706.1595 &#9658;&#9658;BARTENDING UP TO NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY. TRAINING PROVIDED. AGE 18+ OK 1-800-965-6520 ext127 NOW HIRING!! Child Care Center near LSU hiring Afternoon Teachers for Spring Semester. 2:30-5:30 Mon.-Fri. 766-1159 3 TEMPORARY WORKERS Ladino Livestock 9th Los Ranchos Alpine Texas 79831 Duties: Farm workers Farm & Ranch Animals 04/1/2010-2/01/2011 Pay rate $9.02 per hour Farm workers Guaranteed æ of contract hours. All tools, supplies, equipment and housing will be provided at no cost to the worker. Duties consist of Cattle working scales, castrating, branding ECT. Transportation and subsistence expense reimbursed Interested applicants can send resumes nearest State Workforce Agency office using job listing number TX6764626 **SUMMER HELP NEEDED** Rocking Horse Child Care Center is in need of the following positions for our summer camp: LIFE GUARD/ SWIMMING INSTRUCTOR SUMMER CAMP COUNSELORS Only 7 minutes from LSU. Potential for continued PT work after the summer. Please call (225)749-4004 or Fax Resume (225) 749-4005 FITNESS INSTRUCTORS NEEDED- Great part time afternoon school year job-Full time summer job-Great Pay! Exerfit Family Fitness, Bluebonnet Ave(Crawfish Aquatic’s Sister Program) If you are highly motivated, hard working, we can teach you the rest. Please fax resume to 225-706-1634 or email to mleach@exerfitbr.com website: www. exerfitbr.com SMILING FACES NEEDED! River Road Day Care is looking for caring employees M-F 2:30 - 6:00. 15 minutes from LSU. 225.336.9030 QUALITY SUITES HOTEL - PART TIME POSITIONS AVAILABLE IN ALL DEPARTMENTS. APPLY IN PERSON. 9138 BLUEBONNET CENTER BLVD. BATON ROUGE, LA PARKVIEW BAPTIST PRESCHOOL Preschool Afternoon Teachers needed
Cost: 35 cents per word a day Personals Free for students
Employment 3-6pm flex days. no degree required. Call Kim 293-9447 SALES ASSOCIATE needed for The Royal Standard - home interiors and gift store. All Shifts Available. 2+ Weekends per Month Required. Apply in Person at 16016 Perkins Road or Call 225.751.0009 DENTAL OFFICE P/T assistant/receptionist needed. Great opportunity for those interested in the dental/medical field. Fax resume to 225.766.2122. STUDENTPAYOUTS. COM Paid Survey Takers Needed In Baton Rogue. 100% Free To Join! Click On Surveys. RECEPTIONIST Immediate opening for large luxury apartment front office. Must be detail oriented w/dependable transportation and have proficient computer skills. Leasing exp. not necessary. Hrs. M-F 12:30-5:30. Apply M-F 9:00 to 5:00pm. Turnberry Place Apts. 10720 Linkwood Court (Behind Brewbachers on Bluebonnet) NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE SURVEY TAKERS NEEDED: Make $5-$25 per survey. GetPaidToThink.com. SWIMMING INSTRUCTORS NEEDED Great Part Time Afternoon Spring Semester JobFull Time Summer Job-Great Pay! CRAWFISH AQUATICS, Louisiana’s Total Swim Program-If you are highly motivated, hard working, we can teach you the rest. Please fax resume to 225-706-1636 or e-mail to swimcraw@ bellsouth.net COUNTRY CLUB OF LOUISIANA Outside Staff needed. Flexible hours and golf privileges. Contact Pat or Dwight. 225.755.4655 LOOKING FOR HELP with garden maintenance 1 day a week, $10.00 per hour. Call after 6:00pm. 225.923.1506 P/T BOOKKEEPER at local gift/interiors store. Flexible hrs, @15 hrs/wk, Need QB Knowledge $8-10 DOE. Email resume to Highlandside@hotmail.com VETERINARY ASSISTANT Needed for small animal hospital. 15 min. from LSU. Experience preferred but not required. 225.387.2462 2 TEMPORARY WORKERS Coates Ranch Steve Coates 4417 N. State Hwy.137 Mertzon Texas 76941 Duties: Farm workers Farm & Ranch Animals 04/1/2010-2/01/2011 Pay rate $9.02 per hour Farm workers Guaranteed æ of contract hours. All tools, supplies, equipment and housing will be provided at no cost to the worker. Duties consist of Cattle working scales, castrating, branding ECT. Transportation and subsistence expense reimbursed
Housing
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2010
Deadlines: 12 noon two school days prior to the print publication date
Merchandise
Interested applicants can send resumes nearest State Workforce Agency office using job listing number TX2572892 EARN $1000-$3200 A month to drive our brand new cars with ads placed on them. YouDriveAds.com
For Sale NEW FULL PILLOWTOP MATT $150 Never used in plastic. Full pillowtop mattress w/ warranty must move can deliver 225.291.4884 TIGER MANOR CONDOMINIUMS. UNITS READY FOR SPRING and FALL 2010!! Reserve now! Brand new 1, 2, and 3 bedroom units for sale starting at $124,900. Ask about our Guaranteed Buy-Back Program!! 3000 July St. 225-346-5055 www.tigermanor.com Location. Location. Location... Start Living. FD EXP XLT 1998 New tr, wh/ gr, $4,500, 130K, call 7666368. 225.766.6368 TOWNHOUSE - SE BATON ROUGE $117,000 2bdrm/2bth Prvt Backyard, Covered Parking Completely Updated 5321sleepyhollow@gmail.com 225.910.1736 NEW PILLOWTOP MATTRESS 160 I have a new queen pillowtop mattress still in plastic w/ warranty. Can help Deliver. Must move by weekend Howard 225.291.4884 5 PIECE LIVINGROOM SET $450 New in box 5 piece livingroomset never used must move delivery available Howard 225.291.4884
For Rent GATES AT BRIGHTSIDE Very spacious condo available at the Gates at Brightside starting July 1st. 1200 + squ. feet 2 bed 2 bath, 3 miles from campus $1,400 a month plus utilities vvasan1@tigers.lsu. edu or 504.352.4825 504.352.4825 504.352.4825 GATED CONDO LSU, 2 BLKS, 2 BD 1 BA, RENOVATED CONDO. $ 850 MO. $ 500 DEPOSIT. 3101 HIGHLAND RD. UNIT 316. OWNER, AGENT. EVE@EVEWOLFE. COM 504.236.4868 WALK TO CAMPUS 1Br, 2Br, and Townhomes. Starting as low as $400.00. www. lsuwestchimesplace.com 225.346.4789 LSU TIGERLAND SPECIAL Lg Studios 1&2 BR TH &Flat Pool, w/f, $450 to $695 225.615.8521
Transportation
1-2 BR APTS, near LSU, $450-$600 / month. Call Wang. 225.278.6622 225.278.6622 1BR/1BA, 175 Burgin Ave, off Highland and Lee. No dogs. $589/$400 deposit. Call 252-3163 for appointment. HOUSE FOR RENT: 3/4 bdrm, 2 bath. 10min from LSU (Stoneliegh Dr.). $1,800/ mo. wshr/ dryer incl. 504.390.4649 TIGER MANOR CONDOMINIUMS. UNITS READY FOR SPRING and FALL 2010! Reserve Now! Brand new 1, 2, & 3 bedrooms available. Reserve your unit today! Walk to class! 3000 July St. 225-346-5055. www. tigermanor.com Location. Location. Location... Start Living.
Typing
TYPING AND EDITING Fast service, low rates. Pick up/delivery available. Available 24/7. 225.667.8891
Roommate Wanted QUIET SAFE CONVENIENT Seeking 2 Roommates to share 3BR/2BA condo, excellent condition, partially furnished, quiet, safe, gated parking, in Tigerland, convenient to campus and bus line, pool, washer/ dryer, $490 per roommate, utilities and WiFi
Services
included, 504.905.4782. 1 FEMALE ROOMMATE NEEDED 4Bd/2B Burbank Commons/$404/ On LSU Bus Route/ eopry1@lsu.edu 504.495.0969 MASTER & REGULAR BEDROOM pvt bath $395 Reg. room $295. Nice house. W&D. Alarm etc. No lease needed. $250 deposit. 225.921.1209
Personals YANKEE IN DIXIE Lonely anthropology junior seeking a nice southern girl to call his own. She should be attractive, conservative, and have a good sense of humor. yankee_in_dixie@ymail.com QUIRKY FEMALE ROCK lover looking for a fun guy to rock out with. Meet me at the Rock Concert, March 6 at North Gate Tavern (starting @ 10)- I’ll be rockin the tye-dye shirt!! SOUNDS LIKE: music. books. standing in smoke-filled bars watching live shows. taking pictures. yes? phoenixmoth@gmail.com. BAD ROMANCE: Charming, witty, and handsome bachelor looking to meet a beautiful, intelligent Lady Gaga type for love games or to just dance. jjacobs2376@gmail.com CUTE FASHION Major with an engineer’s mind looking for a nice, clean cut guy to hang out with. Let’s catch a movie or coffee sometime. fashionistadiaries61@yahoo.com
Thursday, February 25, 2010 CHOCOLATE, from page 1
“Strokes are caused by blockages in the arteries,” Roy said. “If you can prevent these with antioxidants, it’s going to reduce the risks of stroke.” Suzanne Pruyn, manager of
CREDIT, from page 1
million Visa debit cards are in circulation in the U.S. as of June 30, 2009. As of September 30, 2009, 211 million MasterCard credit cards and 130 million MasterCard debit cards are in circulation in the U.S. The CARD Act includes young people because of the consequences they face because of bad credit and debt, Bernstein said. Eighty-four percent of undergraduate students have credit cards, an increase from 76 percent in 2004
TENURE, from page 1
After serving a term as faculty senate president in 1986, he said he decided he didn’t want to pursue administration as a career. “It wasn’t for me,” he said. “I just like what I’m doing and my aim at the time was to work hard and creatively with my research. As a result, I was awarded a Boyd professorship in 1986.” A Boyd professorship is the highest academic title in the LSU System and is based primarily on research, O’Connell said. O’Connell said keeping updated on global research is important to
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Baum’s Fine Pastries and Chocolates located on Florida Boulevard, said she didn’t know about chocolate’s health benefits until a few years ago, when chocolate started getting more exposure. “It’s certainly a comfort food more than anything else,” Pruyn
said. “You want it when you’re happy, and you want it when you’re sad.” The authors of the study said the analysis doesn’t prove causation. “More research is needed to determine whether chocolate
truly lowers stroke risk, or whether healthier people are simply more likely to eat chocolate than others,” said study author Sarah Sahib, with McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Roy said there is no dietary recommendation for chocolate.
“Chocolate is high in fat and calories,” Roy said. “That’s why moderation is key.”
when the last study was conducted, according to the Sallie Mae “How Undergraduate Students Use Credit Cards” 2009 report. Only 2 percent of undergraduates had no credit history. Undergraduate seniors graduated with an average credit card debt of $2,900 in 2004. The 2009 report found undergraduate seniors graduated with an average credit card debt of more than $4,100, and almost one-fifth of seniors carried balances greater than $7,000. Young people who “get in over
their heads with credit cards” have more damage to their credit score and a tougher time getting their career started, Bernstein said. The act prohibits credit card issuers from giving credit to anyone under the age of 21 unless the person has a co-signer or can show proof of sufficient income. A cosigner has equal liability for payment as the underage card holder, which could affect their credit report. Bernstein said co-signers will be educated on the co-signing
agreements and terms. “One of the important pieces of this consumer protection is we’re getting away from the 17 pages of tiny font that only someone with a Ph.D. could wade through,” he said. Emily Burris, coordinator of the LSU Student Financial Management Center, said this reform will prevent students from graduating with credit card debt in addition to any student loan debts. “The under-21 age limit can be somewhat of a controversial idea because students feel indepen-
dence because college has started,” she said. “But it will make students more aware of being cautious about not running up a certain amount of debt. It will encourage conversations about managing debt.” Bernstein said the CARD Act also urges colleges and universities to require debt and credit management classes on campus.
him. He said he often visits international universities. “Every summer I generally go back to the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies,” he said. “It’s important to interact with the international community.” Michael Cherry, chair of the physics and astronomy department, said the department is pleased to have a faculty member like O’Connell, who is well-known around the world. “He is a tremendously valuable and productive member of our faculty,” Cherry said. “He is unique in that he teaches some of our advanced courses where he is the expert on the subject.”
After working at LSU for nearly half a century, O’Connell said he has seen a lot of campus growth. “Clearly the University has made fantastic progress in terms of its national recognition,” he said. “In the early days, there were a lot of very good people working at LSU who were really responsible for moving LSU forward.” O’Connell said while the theoretical work at LSU has “grown by leaps and bounds” from his arrivial at LSU, he said he has also seen changes outside his department. “The campus still has the same attractions, but, as a condition of progress, it is losing a lot of green
spaces,” he said. “They have put up more buildings, but I suppose one cannot complain about that.” O’Connell said he thinks the University is handling the current budget cuts well. “Obviously, its happening all over the country, so we aren’t unique in that,” he said. “I think the chancellor, administration and faculty senate president are handling things very well.” O’Connell said part of what has kept him at the University are the research opportunities. “At a big University like LSU, the big concentration is on research,” he said. “I focus on quantum theory
nowadays and general relativity.” O’Connell said it’s hard to explain the details of his research to the common person. “My wife keeps asking me that question all the time, and I’m afraid I’m inclined to not answer,” he said. “However, she’s still with me.” O’Connell said he enjoys teaching higher-level courses and it’s important to have relationships with his students, particularly the ones working with him.
Contact Sarah Eddington at seddington@lsureveille.com
Contact Mary Walker Baus at mwbaus@lsureveille.com
Contact Sarah Eddington at seddington@lsureveille.com
Thursday, February 25, 2010
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