The Daily Reveille — February 16, 2009

SNAPSHOT

lsureveille com Log on to see photos of the Easy Street booths.

ENTERTAINMENT Students opt to cut and style their own hair to save money, page 11.

WEEKEND RECAP Lady Tigers upset top-10 Gators in a successful Pack the PMAC, page 7.

THE DAILY REVEILLE WWW.LSUREVEILLE.COM

Housing Hardships

Volume 113, Issue 92

Monday, February 16, 2009

Class makes blog to spur budget cut debate

Experts say students investing in real estate not smart idea, but some insist on taking risks

By Kyle Bove

By Steven Powell

Chief Staff Writer

Contributing Writer

University students are sending out an S.O.S. — for higher education.

The Save Our Schools blog, recently developed by students in professor Bob Mann’s political communication class, is designed to spur conversation about the looming budget cuts LSU and universities across the state are facing next fiscal year.

“My expectation is that this will grow and take on a life of its own,” Mann said.

One of many projects for the class, the blog is an exercise in how communication can inspire organization and political action. Nine students contribute to the blog — adding articles and posting pictures about what schools in Louisiana and the rest of the U.S. are doing to combat the threat of possibly large budget cuts.

Mann suggested the subject matter of the blog, but his students voted in favor of pursuing the topic.

BLOG, see page 6

equity,” said Patin, general studies senior.

As a student, owning rather Joel Patin bought a restoration than renting has its appeals, with in‘73 Corvette Sting Ray in November vestment opportunities and owners’ 2007 for $5,500. Afrights. But Walter ter sinking $1,800 in Morales, finance the Corvette for body instructor, said inand engine restora- Log on to see vesting in property tion, Patin is selling Joel Patin talk might not be the the car to buy a sec- about his best idea for college ond condominium students. investment plan.

— a move he said “Once you take will suit him well fiinto account what nancially. you can get for renting, the return “The way the market will be in on your money [when you invest a few years, this is a great investment opportunity and a chance to build up INVEST, see page 5

lsureveille.com

‘This is a great investment opportunity and a chance to build up equilty.’

GRANT GUTIERREZ / The Daily Reveille

Joel Patin

Joel Patin, general studies senior, sits by his ‘73 Corvette Sting Ray on Sunday. He is selling the car in order to make enough money to buy a second condominium.

general studies senior

TRENDS

Students appreciate, adapt to target advertising Most don’t mind sharing information

By Kyle Whitfield Editor

Entertainment ......... 11 Opinion ................... 16 Classifieds ............... 18

Broadcasts

Index

Sports ........................ 7

7:20 a.m.

8:20 a.m.

Noon 3:20 p.m.

4:20 p.m.

5:20 p.m.

Weather

KYLE WHITFIELD / The Daily Reveille

Tony Simmons, chemistry freshman, works on his computer while talking to Trent Hill, history senior, in the Student Union.

Meaghan Clark didn’t know what she wanted for dinner one night last week, but when she got on Facebook, she found her answer — sushi.

“I saw an ad from Hello Sushi and went and got some sushi,” said Clark, biology freshman. “I figured [Facebook] got my information,

like where I’m from and what’s close to me,” she said.

Just as Facebook is about as mainstream as cell phones and iPods, users are now adapting to the targeted advertising they are seeing on Facebook. And at a time when companies are tightening their belts, the efficiency of target marketing is becoming more useful.

But no matter the trend, collegeaged students seem just fine with it.

“I thought it was pretty cool they paid attention to where I was from,” Clark said.

It’s been a little more than a

TODAY MOSTLY CLOUDY

TUESDAY SHOWERS

63

65

46

year since Facebook unveiled a new advertising platform, centered on the idea of easily targeting a specific audience. The network encourages advertisers — when buying an ad on Facebook — to specify what group of people they want to reach.

Companies can target certain groups through location, sex, age, keywords, education, workplace, relationship status and relationship interests. All of those options include information users can post on their personal profile.

ADVERTISING, see page 6

WEDNESDAY THUNDERSTORMS

63

75

45

THE DAILY REVEILLE

Nation & World

PAGE 2

on the web

LSUREVEILLE.COM

WORLD NEWS

Study: ‘Richness in polar sea species’

TODAY’S QUESTION: Do you rent or own your living space?

The Daily Reveille’s administrative server was reset and is causing issues with poll results. We are working to resolve the problem, and we apologize for the inconvenience.

Contact The Daily Reveille at editor@lsureveille.com GO TO LSUREVEILLE.COM TO CAST YOUR VOTE

MONDAY, FEBRAURY 16, 2009

Iraqi election commission acknowledges fraud voting

BAGHDAD (AP) — Iraqi officials acknowledged Sunday that there was some fraud in last month’s provincial elections but not enough to force a new vote in any province.

Faraj al-Haidari, chairman of the election commission, said final results of the Jan. 31 voting would be certified and announced this week. Voters chose members of ruling provincial councils in an election seen as a dress rehearsal for parliamentary balloting by the end of the year. The U.S. hailed the absence of major violence during the elections.

BANGKOK, Thailand (AP) — The polar oceans are not biological deserts after all. A marine census released Monday documented 7,500 species in the Antarctic and 5,500 in the Arctic, including several hundred that researchers believe could be new to science. “The textbooks have said there is less diversity at the poles than the tropics, but we found astonishing richness of marine life in the Antarctic and Arctic oceans,” said Victoria Wadley, a researcher from the Australian Antarctic Division who took part in the Antarctic survey. “We are rewriting the textbooks.” In one of the biggest surprises, researchers said they discovered dozens of species common to both polar seas.

NATION, STATE AND CITY BRIEFS

Ill. GOP leader calls on Sen. Burris to resign

TODAY

monday, february 16, 2009 bcm dinner & tnt worship Every Thursday night. Dinner (free) at 7:15pm.

TNT Worship Service at 8:00pm. The BCM is at the corner of Highland & Chimes. All LSU students invited! lsubcm.org

upcoming events

confessions of a soldier African American Culture Center (AACC) Tuesday, February 17th at 7:14pm Mr. & mrs. imani pageant LSU Student Union Cotillion Ballroom Thursday, February 18, 7:30pm

scholarship opportunities for university college students Apply online @ uc.lsu.edu or pick up an application in 150 Allen Hall. Application deadline: February 27th confessions of a soldier African American Culture Center (AACC) Tuesday, February 17th at 7:14pm

CHICAGO (AP) — Just as Illinois was moving past the agony and embarrassment of former Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s ousting, the fellow Democrat whom Blagojevich appointed to the U.S. Senate was hearing calls for his own resignation Sunday amid allegations he lied to legislators. Freshman Sen. Roland Burris released an affidavit on Saturday that contradicts his statements last month to a House committee investigating Blagojevich’s impeachment. “I can’t believe anything that comes out of Mr. Burris at this point,” Rep. Jim Durkin, the impeachment committee’s ranking Republican, said at a news conference Sunday. “I think it would be in the best interest of the state if he resigned because I don’t think the state can stand this anymore.”

J. SCOTT APPLEWHITE / The Associated Press

Sen. Roland Burris listens during a committee meeting Jan. 27.

The Ill. GOP leaderhas asked Burris to resign from Congress.

Axelrod: Stem cell order Plane that crashed near coming soon from Obama Buffalo was on autopilot WASHINGTON (AP) — Expect an executive order soon from President Barack Obama on federal funding for embryonic stem cell research. That’s the word from White House adviser David Axelrod. Under President George W. Bush, federal money for research on human embryonic stems cells was limited to those stem cell lines that were created before Aug. 9, 2001. No federal dollars could be used on research with cell lines from embryos destroyed from that point forward. Federal rules do not restrict embryonic stem cell research using state or private funds.

CORRECTIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS

The Daily Reveille holds accuracy and objectivity at the highest priority and wants to reassure the reporting and content of the paper meets these standards.This space is reserved to recognize and correct any mistakes which may have been printed in The Daily Reveille. If you would like something corrected or clarified please contact the editor at (225) 578-4811 or e-mail editor@lsureveille.com.

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

The Daily Reveille (USPS 145-800) is written, edited and produced solely by students of Louisiana State University. The Daily Reveille is an independent entity within the Manship School of Mass Communication. A single issue of The Daily Reveille is free.

To purchase additional copies for 25 cents, please contact the Office of Student Media in B-16 Hodges Hall. The Daily Reveille is published daily during the fall and spring semesters and semiweekly during the summer semester, except during holidays and final exams. Second-class copies postage paid at Baton Rouge, La., 70803. Annual mail subscriptions are $115. Non-mailed student rates are $4 each regular semester, $2 during the summer; one copy per person, additional copies 25 cents each. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Daily Reveille, B-16 Hodges Hall, LSU, Baton Rouge, La.,70803.

BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) — The commuter plane that crashed near Buffalo was on autopilot when it went down in icy weather, indicating that the pilot may have violated federal safety recommendations and the airline’s own policy for flying in such conditions, a federal official said Sunday. Steve Chealander, a National Transportation Safety Board member, said the company that operated the flight recommends pilots fly manually in icy conditions. Pilots are required to do so in severe ice.

THE DAILY REVEILLE B-16 Hodges Hall • Baton Rouge, La. 70803

KYLE WHITFIELD TYLER BATISTE GERRI SAX ALEX BOND NICHOLAS PERSAC KATIE KENNEDY JERIT ROSER ROBERT STEWART SARAH AYCOCK DANIEL LUMETTA KIM FOSTER ZAC LEMOINE JAMES HARALSON LAUREN ROBERTS

Editor Managing Editor, Content Managing Editor, External Media Managing Editor, Production News Editor Deputy News Editor Sports Editor Deputy Sports Editor Entertainment Editor Opinion Editor Photo Editor Online Media Editor Reveille Radio Director Advertising Sales Manager

Newsroom (225)578-4810 • Advertising (225)578-6090

monday, february 16, 2009

THE DAILY REVEILLE

PAGE 3

CHARITY

Cinderella Project collects used dresses for prom More than 200 dresses donated

By Nichole Oden Contributing Writer

In high school, every girl dreams about one night — prom night. And the Cinderella Project of Baton Rouge is making sure every girl’s dream can come true.

The Cinderella Project held a dress collection Saturday at the IberiaBank on Essen Lane.

The Cinderella Project is a program that collects evening gowns for high school girls who would otherwise not be able to afford a prom dress, said Shelton Jones, cofounder of the Cinderella Project.

“The main criteria we look for is girls who are on the federal free lunch program,” Jones said. “Currently, in East Baton Rouge, that’s about 88 percent of students.”

Jones and her co-founder, Sarah Dupree, started the program last January.

People were able to drive

through and drop off their dresses with a volunteer.

“We had a great turnout,” Jones said. “There were about 200 dresses dropped off.”

Jones said she was worried about the weather deterring people, but even rain didn’t stop people from bringing their dresses.

Jones said donated dresses should be dry cleaned and in exceptional condition — no rips or stains. Dresses need to be in style, preferably bought within the last five years and age appropriate for a high school girl. Because prom is always in the spring, the Cinderella Project does not accept dresses with long sleeves or made of velvet.

The Cinderella Project will host a dress giveaway March 7-8.

Eligible girls can make a 30-minute appointment where a volunteer will take them around to look at the dresses and help them choose one.

Jones said they are still looking for volunteers to help with this event.

Those interested in volunteering can go to the Cinderella Project Web site and sign up for a shift on

either of the two days.

Jones said the Cinderella Project is still accepting dresses until March 5 at the Appletree Storage Center on Perkins Road.

The Cinderella Project will be hosting another fundraiser Friday at Sullivan’s Ringside on Corporate Boulevard. Jones said the Vtones band will play, and they will be accepting $10 donations at the door.

“One problem we have is people don’t donate many plus-size dresses,” Jones said. “The money made at this fundraiser will be used to buy more plus-size dresses.”

Since starting the Cinderella Project in Baton Rouge, Jones said Houma has started a similar program. Also, people in Ascension Parish contacted Jones to tell her they were interested in starting a similar program there.

“We’re pleased to see how much it’s growing,” Jones said.

ERIN ARLEDGE / The Daily Reveille

Contact Nichole Oden at noden@lsureveille.com

IberiaBank on Essen Lane hosted a prom dress donation on Valentine’s Day for the Cinderella Project of Baton Rouge.

TRANSPORTATION

National Highway deaths decrease by 10.7 percent La. death rates down 8.7 percent

By Joy Lukachick Staff Writer

A lower number of people dying in car accidents could be related to a slower economy, according to recent government report.

The national death rate of people killed in roadway crashes decreased in 2008 by 10.7 percent compared to 2007, according to the Governors Highway Safety Association. And Louisiana highway fatalties decreased 8.7 percent.

The report showed 40 out of the 44 states who responded to the survey have seen a decrease in fatality crashes during this time period.

“The economy has been a major factor, but we think there are other factors,” said Barbara Harsha, Governors Highway Safety Association executive director.

The decrease began from 2006 to 2007 but the numbers weren’t a drastic change until 2008, Harsha said. Before 2007, the numbers were fairly consistent for a decade between 40,000 and 43,000 national highway deaths per year, she said.

Because the numbers have decreased in the last year and a half as the economy has started to have problems, the association is looking into a cause being related to less people driving to save money, Harsha said.

Jim Dickerson, Louisiana Highway Safety Commission assistant director, said Louisiana

reported 907 highway-related deaths during the last calendar year. In 2007, 993 deaths were reported.

The numbers for 2008 have not been collected yet, but last year the commission’s office reported licensed Louisiana drivers traveled 454 million miles, ‘[Seatbelts Dickerson are] one said.

The price of the key of gas plays a role in impact- factors of ing how much becoming a drivers are fatality as traveling, he opposed to said.

Don Red- an injury ’ man, American A u t o m o b i l e Jim Dickerson Highway Safety Association Commission public affairs specialist, said assistant director drivers may be slowing down to save on gas, and it’s impacting the amount of crashes.

The most fuel-efficient

speeds are between 60 and 70 miles per hour, he said.

Another major factor in the decrease could be law enforcers imposing strict safety laws including seat belt laws, Dickerson said.

Out of all those killed on the highway, 64 percent were not wearing a seatbelt, he said.

“That’s one of the key factors of becoming a fatality as opposed to an injury,” Dickerson said.

Louisiana Highway Safety Commissions works with about 80 law enforcement agencies and state police who have kept enforcement levels high for seatbelt laws, Dickerson said.

Massachusetts showed the largest decrease of highway deaths at 28.5 percent, and Delaware, New Hampshire, Vermont and Wyoming were the only reported states with an increase in fatalities.

Contact Joy Lukachick at jlukachick@lsureveille.com

Louisiana Highway Traffic Information Overview Year

Vehicle Miles Injury Crashes Traveled

2004 445 million 2005 450 million 2006 454 million 2007 454 million 2008 *454 million

50,100 49,500 48,800 48,200 46,100

Fatal Crashes 886 874 890 900 *827

Fatalities 992 965 987 993 *907

* The values for 2008 are calculated by taking an estimate based on the last 12 months. They are not the actual numbers for 2008.

Source: Governors Highway Safety Association

PAGE 4

THE DAILY REVEILLE

monday, february 16, 2009

ECONOMY

Louisiana’s share of stimulus bill pegged at $3.8 billion

By Melinda Deslatte The Associated Press

(AP) — Louisiana stands to receive an estimated $3.8 billion for education, health care and other services from the $787 billion economic stimulus bill that passed Congress Friday.

Among the largest pools of money are $1.7 billion for Medicaid, $587 million to help the state avoid cuts to education programs and $455 million for road and bridge work, according to data from the Federal Funds Information for States, which was tracking the legislation for both the National Conference of State Legislatures and the National Governors Association.

The money will flow to the state over two to three years.

Louisiana officials are grappling with how the dollars can be used — and which pieces might help the state close a gap in next year’s budget, which is projected to include $1.2 billion less in state general fund income than this year.

The new fiscal year begins July 1, and lawmakers will craft that budget in the regular session that begins in April.

Gov. Bobby Jindal said he isn’t sure the state will take all the money it’s eligible to receive, depending on the strings attached.

“We’re going to be looking very carefully at the restrictions and conditions attached to these

According to the preliminary review released by the Federal Funds Information for States, Louisiana could receive: —$1.7 billion for the state’s Medicaid program.

—$587 million in education dollars to help prevent layoffs and cutbacks.

—$130 million in flexible dollars to help stave off budget cuts.

—$455 million for road and bridge work.

—$269 million for high-need schools.

—$197 million for special education.

—$77 million for transit projects.

—$72 million for clean and drinking water projects.

—$53 million for state and local law enforcement to hire officers and purchase equipment.

—$27 million for homelessness prevention.

—$16 million for the Head Start program.

dollars and programs before we recommend that we include those dollars in our budget. And I would certainly expect the Legislature to do the same thing as they review our budget before any of these dollars can be spent,” Jindal said this week.

On Friday, the U.S. House approved the spending and tax cut package, which supporters said would help create and retain jobs and keep the country from sliding deeper into a recession.

The U.S. Senate approved the measure Friday evening.

Louisiana’s senators split their vote: Democrat Mary Landrieu supported the measure; Republican David Vitter opposed it.

Only one of Louisiana’s seven congressmen, Democrat Charlie Melancon, supported the measure.

“With so many people hurting, we can’t afford to sit back and wait for the perfect solution to come along,” Melancon said. “We must take bold action now to stop the downward spiral.”

All the state’s Republican congressmen — Rodney Alexander, Charles Boustany, Anh “Joseph” Cao, Bill Cassidy, John Fleming and Steve Scalise — voted against it. Republicans said the package contained too much unneces-

GREG PEARSON / The Associated Press

Gov. Jindal speaks during a press conference Wednesday announcing a new education program to help solve disciplinary problems. Jindal said he isn’t sure the state will take all of the money it stands to receive from the economic stimulus package.

sary spending and not enough tax breaks.

“Liberal spending pet projects fail to create long-lasting, goodpaying jobs. Rather, this bill creates thousands of new bureaucratic jobs, which will slow our system down even further,” Boustany said in a statement.

While several states have tapped “czars” or hired outside help to oversee their stimulus spending, it was unclear Friday who would

guide the spending in Louisiana.

Before many of the dollars can be spent, the Louisiana Legislature or the Legislature’s joint budget committee will have to approve the spending. Some of the dollars will flow directly to local government agencies, however.

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

monday, february 16, 2009

THE DAILY REVEILLE

PAGE 5

ORGANIZATIONS

Speech and Debate Team hosts Mardi Gras Classic 18 teams traveled to BR for event

By Ryan Buxton Contributing Writer

The weekend may have been spent in tense competition, but the attendees of the LSU Mardi Gras Classic speech and debate tournament let loose Saturday evening.

Members of the LSU Speech and Debate Team paraded through the auditorium, slinging beads and dancing to a brassy Mardi Gras soundtrack, as they opened the awards ceremony

INVEST, from page 1

in property] is not all that high,” he said.

Morales said the possibility of a sudden change in property value, which would put owners further in the red than if they had simply paid rent, is a big risk. Property owners also have the costs and responsibility of maintenance, repairs and property tax, none of which a renter has, he said.

“It’s true that a renter never gets rent money back,” he said. “However, money spent on interest and property tax, which is higher than rental tax, is also permanently lost.”

Patin said the liability of owning property is one of the negative

of their annual tournament.

William Carey University, located in Mississippi, took home the sweepstakes award, earned by scoring the most points during the entire tournament. The LSU team would have received second place in the sweepstakes, but the hosting team does not accept that award.

“As a matter of professional courtesy, since we host the tournament, we do not accept the sweepstakes award,” said Mike Applin, director of LSU Speech and Debate.

The LSU team took top honors earlier this month at the Louisiana Intercollegiate Forensics Association Tri-State Championship. The team

won state championships in both debate and several speaking events, including extemporaneous speaking, informative speaking, after dinner speaking, poetry interpretation and dramatic duo interpretation.

The exciting awards ceremony at the Mardi Gras Classic was appropriate for a tournament Applin calls one of the most fun in the area.

“We compete, and we have fun,” Applin said. “We like to let people enjoy Baton Rouge and take in some Mardi Gras parades.”

Eighteen teams from the southern region traveled to Baton Rouge for the weekend’s events.

Attendees of the tournament

agreed that being able to do more than only compete made it a great experience.

“The LSU Speech and Debate Team made sure my students got to experience an exceptional tournament but also get the whole Baton Rouge experience,” said Treva Dean, associate director of the University of Alabama team.

Applin said putting the tournament together was a big job, involving about 250 people total.

Although many people were part of the tournament, guests said they received a pleasant and comfortable reception.

“The professionalism and

warmth of the tournament staff is wonderful,” Dean said.

Merle Ziegler, coach of the Mississippi College team, was also impressed.

“The individuals running the tournament have been gracious hosts,” Ziegler said. “We are looking forward to our visit next year.”

The tournament involved a debate competition as well as several speaking events, including prepared speeches and dramatic interpretations.

aspects, but he has found the costs and responsibility are “never as big a deal as they’re made out to be.”

“The major difference between renting and owning is that renting is not helping my credit or financial situation,” he said. “I’m helping myself build equity for future value.”

Morales said in past years, many mortgage applicants lied about income because the markets were less radical, not requiring income documentation. But today’s market is much stricter, often requiring a 15 to 20 percent down payment.

“I had no problem getting a loan,” Patin said. “Lots of people are misconstrued on buying a home.

I found it to be a pretty simple process.”

Patin said many programs are available to assist first-time home buyers, allowing expenses like closing cost to be rolled into the mortgage payment.

James Richardson, Public Administration Institute director, said the decision to buy should be carefully timed. Although today’s market has bottomed out, it will return in the long run, he said.

“Buying is an alternative but not necessarily a cheaper alternative,” he said.

Matt Noel, realtor for Coldwell Banker ONE, said he averages only one student client per year. Most students have their parents co-sign for a loan, he said.

“The biggest hindrance to a col-

lege student would be credit — or lack thereof,” Noel said. “It’s one of the first things mortgage companies look for, making it hard for college students to apply.”

Matthew Simmons, political science and philosophy senior, said he tried to buy a condo but was denied a mortgage loan. He said he’s renting but wants the benefits of being a home owner.

“I’d rather own,” he said. “It would allow me to build up equity and increase the value of real estate over time.”

Chasity Marshall, mortgage broker for LA Lending, LLC, said college students will find it difficult to apply for a loan, though it’s not impossible. She said her firm will

work with students, helping them to meet the qualifications.

“Current students must have had a consistent job for the past two years and a steady source of income,” she said. “It will also depend on their credit score.”

Molly Thibodeaux, realtor for Tiger Town Realty, said most condominiums near the University are owned by students’ parents.

“Every student has to make up his or her own mind as to what’s more important to them,” Richardson said. “It has the possibility be a financially better alternative but requires more work.”

Contact Ryan Buxton at rbuxton@lsureveille.com

Contact Steven Powell at spowell@lsureveille.com

THE DAILY REVEILLE

PAGE 6

LOVEY DOVEY, THAT KISS KISS

BLOG, from page 1

GRANT GUTIERREZ / The Daily Reveille

Joey Bacala, mechanical engineering freshman, and Lauren Madden, undeclared freshman, kiss Friday night in front of the Memorial Tower to celebrate the beginning of Valentine’s Day.

ADVERTISING, from page 1

“It’s always a trade-off with giving your information,” said Lance Porter, mass communication assistant professor. “You give your information to Facebook because it provides you a value. You’re able to share something about yourself; share information with your friends … As long as the ads are correctly targeted and aren’t hitting you over the head with a blunt instrument, then you’re OK with it usually.”

One of the latest and arguably more interesting Facebook-related ads involves Burger King. The ad campaign, called Whopper Sac-

rifice, solicited Facebook users to download an application that would physically mail a Facebook user a coupon for a free Angry Whopper if the user “de-friends” 10 people on Facebook. The campaign was recently halted, though, because those users “de-friended” were sent a message letting them know they were, in fact, “de-friended.”

Facebook normally doesn’t do that — the company made a brief exception for Burger King.

“Burger King did a good job there where you had people ‘burning’ their friends, which does tie into the flame-broiled Whopper idea,” said Jennifer Macha, mass

communication instructor. “That just gave them more press, which at the end of the day is good for business.”

Not only do college-aged students seem to not mind that sort of targeted marketing, but some like it.

“We’re not bothered about it, because we expect it,” said Trent Hill, a history junior from Denham Springs, La. Shelby Barr, business and marketing freshman, said the advertising on Facebook doesn’t bother her.

“If I go to LSU, I’d rather have LSU advertisements than another

The blog is not specific to the University’s budget difficulties, but rather offers a forum for members and students of all Louisiana higher education entities to express their feelings about possibly large-scale budget reductions and their effect on students, faculty, staff and Louisiana as a whole.

Gov. Bobby Jindal warned higher education officials in January that cuts in state funding of up to 30 percent are possible for the 20092010 fiscal year beginning July 1.

Including the University’s $10.3 million mid-year budget cut, LSU’s main campus would see a budget reduction of about $71.9 million if state funds were cut by 30 percent.

The drastic cut would result in layoffs, a decrease in course offerings and larger class sizes, according to a “budget reduction exercise” the LSU System released Feb. 4. college’s advertisements.”

Experts say consumers can expect more target marketing, especially since these sites are ingrained in people’s daily routines.

According to a study released Jan. 14 by the Pew Internet and American Life Project, 75 percent of online adults ages 18-24 have a profile on a social networking site.

Meanwhile, 57 percent of adults 25-34 participate in online social networks.

“As long as consumers feel like they’re in control, they’re OK,” Porter said. “That’s a key thing for any digital media — any of these new forms of advertising. That’s

monday, february 16, 2009 Parker Wishik, Student Government senator and contributor to Save Our Schools, said the blog offers a centralized database for all budget cut news and discussion.

Since its first post hit the Internet Feb. 5, the blog has garnered more than 750 views. A Facebook group was also created.

“A lot of stuff is going on [right now],” Wishik said. “The main goal is to generate conversation at this stage of the game.”

Wishik said he hopes the blog will eventually spark a unified student movement across campus to fight the budget cuts.

“We don’t want people to ignore it,” Wishik said. “We want them to do something about it.”

The blog can be found at sossaveourschools.blogspot.com.

Contact Kyle Bove at kbove@lsureveille.com why pop-up ads [anger] people so much because you’re not in control of that. When you’re online, it’s a lean-forward, self-directed kind of thing. You’re in charge.”

Like Porter, Clark said pop-up ads on Facebook would aggravate her. But she welcomes the targeted advertising any day.

“I understand from the advertising point of view they’re just trying to get people they can make money off,” she said.

Contact Kyle Whitfield at kwhitfield@lsureveille.com

THE DAILY REVEILLE

Sports

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2009

PAGE 7

Signature Win

Hightower leads Lady Tigers in impressive 66-47 win against top-10 Gators There was a festive atmo- Gators (22-4, 8-3). sphere in the PMAC before the Junior guard Allison HighLSU women’s basketball team’s tower opened the scoring with a opening tip off quick layup 12 against No. 9 seconds into the

By Rachel Whittaker Florida on Sunday game, and Florida Sports Writer afternoon. senior guard MarThe Lady Tishae Dotson angers’ home arena was filled with swered with a layup of her own pink during the 13th annual Pack 34 seconds later to tie the score. the PMAC game to Those were promote breast canthe last points cer awareness. the Gators would A crowd of score until 9:22 Log on to see a photo left in the first 5,758 was on hand slideshow of Sunday’s half. for the nationally “Pack the PMAC.” televised game.

“I’m really And LSU (13shocked,” LSU 9, 6-4) kept the environment alive coach Van Chancellor said about when the game began, going on a the Lady Tigers’ dominating start.

16-2 run in the first 10 minutes en UPSET, see page 15 route to a 66-47 win against the

Tigers second in Easton Classic

By David Helman Sports Writer

lsureveille.com

JASON BORDELON / The Daily Reveille

JASON BORDELON / The Daily Reveille

LSU sophomore guard Katherine Graham battles a Florida defender in the Lady Tigers’ 66-47 win Sunday during the “Pack the PMAC” game.

SOFTBALL

LSU junior guard Allison Hightower goes up for a shot against Florida’s defense during the Lady Tigers’ win Sunday. Hightower scored 21 points in the victory.

Ohio State had already won the Easton Tiger Classic when LSU took the field Sunday, but the Tigers split a pair of games for a second-place finish, highlighted by two top-5 upsets.

LSU (6-4) started the weekend with an extra-innings loss Friday night to the Buckeyes. LSU junior outfielder ‘You can’t Kirsten Shortwas the exwin games ridge tent of the LSU with only offense, as her hits were the two hits — two Tigers’ only hits plain and the entire night.

“You can’t simple.’ win games with Yvette Girouard only two hits LSU softball coach — plain and simple,” said LSU coach Yvette Girouard on Friday. “We let this one game get away from us. Credit Ohio State because they made something happen, and we did not.”

LSU rebounded Saturday with another extra innings performance — this time a 6-5 win against No. 5 Texas A&M. Fueled by a pair of RBIs from LSU freshman infielder Juliana Santos, the Tigers took a 3-2 lead into the game’s final inning. An infield single by Texas A&M with a runner on third tied the game and forced extra innings, where the Aggies capitalized on the tiebreaker to take a late TOURNAMENT, see page 15

MEN’S BASKETBALL

LSU likely to crack top-25 after weekend win over Rebels Tigers ranked 26th in last week’s poll

By Amos Morale Sports Contributor

LSU coach Trent Johnson used four words to describe LSU basketball’s week.

“Two hard-fought victories,” Johnson said. “Two hard-fought victories.”

The Tigers picked up a 97-94 double overtime victory against Mississippi State and a few days later earned a come-from-behind victory against Ole Miss, 73-66.

LSU showed the signs of the

hard week early in the game against The Tigers were noticeably outthe Rebels, but the Tigers may be re- rebounded in the first half of Saturwarded for their efday’s game against forts soon enough.

Ole Miss.

No. 25 Florida So noticeable State, No. 24 Ohio that one of the refState, No. 21 Utah erees told senior State, No. 15 Butler, guard Garrett TemNo. 13 Villanova, ple when LSU reNo. 12 Virginia, No. turned to the court 11 Clemson, No. 6 trailing, 37-32, at Trent Johnson UCLA and No. 5 the start of the secDuke all dropped ond half.

LSU men’s basketball coach contests last week, “He said, ‘You and LSU may move into the top-25. know they had 24 rebounds,” Temple LSU received the 26th most said. “’Y’all only had 13.’” votes in last week’s poll.

The Rebels out-rebounded the If the Tigers do move into the Tigers, 24-13, in the first half, and poll, it will be the first time since Jan. REBELS, see page 15 28, 2006.

‘‘

‘Anytime you lose your point guard, you lose your continuity.’

ERIN ARLEDGE / The Daily Reveille

LSU junior forward Tasmin Mitchell gets fouled Saturday while going for a layup during the Tigers’ 73-66 come-from-behind victory against Ole Miss.

PAGE 8

THE DAILY REVEILLE

monday, february 16, 2009

TRACK AND FIELD

Laurent sets school indoor pole vault record Thomas qualifies for Indoor Championship

By Rowan Kavner Sports Contributor

Freshman Rachel Laurent hadn’t cleared 13 feet this season in the pole vault.

But that changed Saturday at the Tyson Invitational in Fayetteville, Ark., with her NCAA auto-

matic qualifying mark and LSU indoor record jump of 13 feet, 9 1/4 inches.

The mark, which tied her for No. 6 in the NCAA this season, topped the previous indoor school record of 13 feet, 6 1/2 inches set by junior Katelyn Rodrigue a year ago.

She joins junior LaTavia Thomas as the second Lady Tiger to automatically qualify for the NCAA Indoor Championships on March 13-14.

Runway damage postponed the event from Friday to Saturday, causing a long delay for the 39 vaulters.

“I wasn’t sure how today was going to go since I had to get here at 7:30 a.m. I’ve never had to do anything like that before,” Laurent said in a news release. “I felt very anxious and couldn’t wait to get out there and compete.”

Meanwhile, the 400-meter dash stood out for two Tigers.

Freshman Robert Simmons

finished third in the event with a personal-best time of 46.55 seconds, eclipsing his previous personal best of 47.79 seconds at the Southeastern Conference/Big 12 Challenge on Jan. 31.

The third-place finish gave Simmons the third-fastest time in the NCAA this year and put him at No. 8 all-time for LSU in the event. He finished behind Georgia freshman Torrin Lawrence, who set a world-leading time of 46.18 seconds, and unattached

sprinter Terrance Reid (46.50).

“Robert ran a great race today,” LSU coach Dennis Shaver said in a news release. “That’s exactly what we’re looking for from our team this year as we prepare for the championship meets.”

Junior Armanti Hayes recorded his first NCAA provisional qualifying time of the year with a personal-best indoor time of 46.93 in the same event, taking LAURENT, see page 9

GYMNASTICS

Tigers garner first win in Tuscaloosa since 1976 Clare-Kearney wins 100th career title

By Rob Landry Sports Contributor

The LSU gymnastics team had walked out of Coleman Coliseum a winner only once in school history before this season.

That changed Friday night when the No. 11 Tigers defeated No. 5 Alabama, 196.625-195.750, their first win in Tuscaloosa, Ala., since 1976.

The loss at home was the Crimson Tide’s first to any team other than Georgia in 29 years.

“We beat Alabama at Alabama. Nobody does that,” said LSU gymnastics coach D-D Breaux in a postgame radio interview. “We beat them from the first performer to the last performer.”

Posting a high score is a higher priority in gymnastics than winning the meet because the scores determine national rankings. But the Tigers came into this competition with extra motivation to accomplish both. “[Breaux] told us to stay in the process like she always does,” said LSU junior Sabrina Franceschelli.

“She told us we don’t usually think about winning the meet, but we really wanted this one.”

LSU senior Ashleigh Clare-

Kearney won three individual titles in the meet — the vault, floor exercise and all around — giving her 100 career titles.

“It’s really an honor,” ClareKearney said. “It really is because of my teammates, my coaches, and all the LSU athletic staff. They were behind me all the way, so it’s just as much their accomplishment as it is mine.”

LSU junior Susan Jackson finished second in the all-around with a score of 39.375. She tied her season high on the balance beam with a score of 9.875.

The Tigers held a 96.37596.300 lead at the end of the first rotation. But they took control of the meet in the third event when

Alabama posted a 48.750 on the balance beam, a season low for the Tide.

Franceschelli and freshman Gloria Johnson posted season highs on the balance beam. Each scored a 9.825.

Johnson also posted a season high on the floor exercise, scoring a 9.775. “[Gloria] went out there and really showed off and performed to her best,” Clare-Kearney said. “We need both of them [Johnson and Franceschelli] in the lineup because they are capable of posting high scores.”

LSU tied its season-high score on the vault, posting a 49.250, and scored more than a 49.000 on the

floor exercise for only the second time this season.

Two Tigers posted individual season highs on the vault. Sophomore Staci Schwitkis and freshman Ashley Lee scored a 9.875 and a 9.800, respectively.

After the huge upset the Tigers now set their sights on Feb. 20 when Illinois-Chicago and North Carolina travel to the PMAC for the Tigers’ “Mardi Gras” meet.

“I’d love to see a big crowd,” Breaux said. “Maybe it will rain, and people will party early and come to the PMAC.” Contact Rob Landry at rlandry@lsureveille.com

monday, february 16, 2009

THE DAILY REVEILLE

PAGE 9

SOFTBALL

Team adapts to new Tiger Park conditions the wind would just be nuts,” said LSU coach Yvette Girouard.

“Within an inning it could be in our favor, and then it’ll be against us.”

By David Helman It’s clear the Tigers’ hits will Sports Writer be sailing in any and every direction, but the question remains if As if the Mississippi River they will leave the park. The tendidn’t dictate enough about life tative answer is yes – Ohio State in southeast Louisiana, it may and LSU combined for six home now decide the fortunes of the runs in nine games over the weekLSU softball team. end. Sam Houston State added Located across the street one in extra innings against the from the LSU School of Veteri- Tigers. nary Medicine, the new “Ohio State brings the Tiger Park is set just a ‘Within an big hitters — big girls, big inning it hitters,” Girouard said. stone’s throw away from the banks of the river.

Freshman shortstop could be in Wind didn’t seem to Juliana Santos and freshbe a factor in the Tigers’ our favor, man second baseman Feb. 11 opener against and then Ashley Langoni knocked McNeese State, as the first homers in the it’ll be LSU’s flags in center field sat new park on the way to dead at the top of their against us’ two separate wins against poles.

Yvette Girouard Texas A&M. The runs had But in the Easton Tito come as a relief to GirLSU coach ger Classic this weekend, ouard, who had seen sevthe wind blew hard in toward the eral fly balls fall short of the outplate, out to left field and gently field walls, which were supposed from left to right over the course to be closer to the plate. of one game. In three days worth “I don’t think the park is as of softball, played in rainy, over- small as we wanted it to be at cast and sunny conditions, the first,” Girouard said. “The fence wind changed direction seem- is shorter, but it didn’t come in as ingly every inning. much as we intended the fence to The windy conditions caused come in.” by the river are one of a few nuSantos and Langoni took ances to the new Tiger Park. advantage of the shorter fences “Soccer had warned us that with their home runs over the

River winds steer balls in all directions

weekend.

“The fences are a little shorter than our other field,” Santos said. “It’s going to depend on the weather, but that’s definitely an advantage.”

With the Tigers’ pitching staff still hindered by injury, it remains to be seen how the new park will play into LSU’s defense. Four separate players have pitched for LSU since Tiger Park opened, and the Tigers have given up just one home run.

When asked whether the new

stadium was a pitcher’s or batter’s park, freshman pitcher Brittany Mack replied, “Pitchers.”

“Everyone is a great hitter, but it all depends on if a pitcher knows a batter can learn to stay away from it,” Mack said. “I never think about [the wind]. I put all factors aside and put it one pitch at a time.”

Contact David Helman at dhelman@lsureveille.com

LAURENT, from page 8 sixth place overall.

Sophomore Walter Henning remained unbeaten in the weight throw after a throw of 72 feet, 3 3/4 inches — 8 feet farther than the nearest competitor.

But he was not the only LSU weight thrower to make headlines. Junior Kim Williams recorded the fourth-best throw in Lady Tigers’ history with a personal-best weight throw of 58 feet, 5 1/4 inches.

Thomas finished with a season-best time of 54.13 seconds in the 400 meters, while sophomore Kenyanna Wilson set a new personal best of 7.37 seconds finishing third in the 60-meter dash.

Both Lady Tigers set NCAA provisional qualifying times.

With the SEC Indoor Championships two weeks away, Shaver was not impressed with the men’s overall performance.

“While the women did well, I can’t really say the same thing about our men’s team as a whole,” Shaver said. “I was looking for continued improvement from them this week, and they simply failed to step it up as a group and be competitive. If no changes take place over the next two weeks, they will not positively represent LSU at the SEC meet.”

GRANT GUTIERREZ / The Daily Reveille

The LSU softball team stands and cheers in the new Tiger Park. The windy conditions caused by the Mississippi River are one of the few nuances of the new stadium.

Contact Rowan Kavner at rkavner@lsureveille.com

PAGE 10

THE DAILY REVEILLE

monday, february 16, 2009

THE DAILY REVEILLE

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2009

Entertainment

Trims and Cuts

Beauty expenditures decrease, self-styling increases because of economy home in January and is pleased with the results.

“I wanted a difference in my As the U.S. economy con- life [and] it only cost about $18,” tinues its depressing presence, Smith said.

Louisianians are looking for Although she has to condiways to trim their budgets. Hair tion her blond hair twice weekly, maintenance is often one of the Smith said it was worth the $70 first expenditures to get the cut, she saved by not going to her and that has the salon industry usual colorist for highlights. working hard to keep people in Colon said since the recesthe chairs and away from the sion hit people stretch their time bathroom scissors. between appointments, even Jessica Colon, salon coordi- changing services to get the most nator at Lockworks for their money.

Salon on Highland “We have Road, said since had a lot more the recession hit, requests for highpeople are trying lights because to get the most out that’s easier to go of every salon apwith less maintepointment. nance if they’re Jessica Colon “People are done correctly,” trying to get more salon coordinator, Lockworks Salon Colon said. “You value for their doldon’t notice as lar,” Colon said. much, as opposed “People will not come back if to a big block of roots [with allthey feel they haven’t gotten a over hair color].” value out of it.”

Dawn Davis, stylist at the Since the hair industry has no Hair Factory in Baton Rouge, fixed prices for services, stylists said men in particular are extendcan charge what they feel is rea- ing time between appointments, sonable based on talent and expe- but they remain regular customrience. Haircuts range from $12 ers because their jobs require to more than $100, and coloring them to look properly groomed. hair is even more expensive.

“Men that work in profesTo save money, some people sional jobs … have to look predo their own salon work — many sentable,” Davis said. “Men come times with disappointing results. in just to keep looking tidy.”

Hairstylists are only too faRobin Stewart, salon comiliar with the client who comes ordinator at Studio One2One in with hair color that is too bright, in Lafayette, said business has too dark or just plain wrong. remained steady, but regular Others have made the switch customers are waiting longer to from salon to bathroom sink get a trim. without a hitch.

“Everybody is still coming Laura Smith, kinesiology junior, started dying her hair at HAIR, see page 12

By Sarah Aycock

Entertainment Editor

‘‘

‘Not everyone can justify a $50 haircut when they’re broke.’

Daily Reveille file photo

Joel Dyer of Solon Londyn gives a customer a “blowout” on Wednesday. The poor economy has hurt the beauty industry because people are choosing to style and color their own hair in order to save money.

PAGE 11

MY OPINION

State moving to top of industries Louisiana has been coined the “Hollywood of the South” by various news outlets in the state. And everything that’s happening in the state with music and movies is proving that the nickname is deserved.

In the past few years, many big name JOSHUA CHENIER movies have been filmed Columnist in Louisiana, including “All the King’s Men,” “Glory Road,” “The Dukes of Hazzard,” “Ray,” and most recently “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.”

Louisiana provides great locations to shoot movies because of the great tax incentives offered by the state. There are beautiful locations like plantation homes or downtown areas of cities that provide a real-life set for movies to work with.

Shreveport was even ranked third in best places to film in 2008

by Movie Maker Magazine. The criteria that determined rankings included quality and quantity of local talent, production facilities and networking events.

With all the fuss over the film industry booming in our great state, I’ve been looking forward to the music scene to just explode.

Louisiana does have a pretty respectable amount of opportuniLOUISIANA, see page 14

FILM

Southern Circuit Tour to showcase independent films Manship Theatre to host film circuit

By Jake Clapp Entertainment Writer

photo courtesy of SOUTHERN CIRCUIT TOUR

Marisa Arianne Mitchell of the documentary “Member of the Club” has been trained to become a New Orleans Mardi Gras Queen since she was a young child.

In today’s world of big budget blockbuster films, it’s hard for independent films to get noticed while everyone is rushing to the theaters to see the next multi-million dollar flick.

For directors, it’s hard to get a film out to an audience when there’s a budget of only a couple of thousand dollars.

For audiences and those who would love to see these movies, when there is nothing playing in your town except the new “Friday the 13th,”

your choices are somewhat limited. so people can enjoy something difThat’s why the Southern Circuit ferent.”

Tour of Independent Filmmakers Heurtin, who is also the direcwas established. tor of finance and operations at the Started by the Manship Theatre, South Carolina Arts is responsible for commission in 1975, ‘This is a great way bringing the cirthe Southern Circuit for filmmakers and cuit through Batries to bring these ton Rouge and is otherwise unnoticed communities to con- one of the jurors films to communities chooses the nect and interact who across the South. films to go on the “There are a tour.

Paige Heurtin lot of people in the Each year, the South who would re- Louisiana representative for the tour accepts close ally want to see someto 100 films to be Southern Circuit Tour thing else besides just screened by a jury. the new Batman movie,” said Paige The jury is made of representatives Heurtin, Louisiana representative for from each venue the tour visits, and the Southern Circuit. “That is why INDIE, see page 12 we bring the circuit to Baton Rouge,

‘‘

THE DAILY REVEILLE

PAGE 12

monday, february 16, 2009

ART

Mardi Gras decorations inspire sculpture garden Moss covers two magnolia trees

By Lindsay Nunez Entertainment Writer

In the days following Mardi Gras, the streets and trees along parade routes are typically littered with beads and pieces of plastic trinkets.

The beads lucky enough to be caught are usually proudly worn for a night or two then stored in the attic until the next carnival season.

But an intermediate sculpture class at the University has found a way to turn this Mardi Gras mess into a masterpiece.

While walking through the sculpture garden, tiny sparkling spheres draw the eyes of students upward to the Mardi Gras moss that covers two of the magnolia trees.

On the first day of the spring semester Loren Schwerd’s intermediate sculpture class was asked

HAIR, from page 11

a trim.

“Everybody is still coming in on a regular basis, but clients are stretching out their appointments by maybe a week,” Stewart said.

Charles D’Agostino, executive director of the Louisiana Business and Technology Center, says small businesses, such as salons, survive rough economic times better than large corporations because they are “leaner” in terms of employees and expenditures.

“Small businesses are impacted [by recessions], but much less because they don’t have a lot of waste,” D’Agostino said. “Every person has a job and a duty that they have to get completed.”

INDIE, from page 11 those representatives narrow it down to 12 features.

These 12 movies are then divided into two separate tours that go out to different locations simultaneously from September through November and February to April.

Visiting more than 20 venues from Florida to Louisiana, the Southern Circuit is the nation’s only regional tour of independent filmmakers, providing audiences the opportunity to connect with the directors who travel with their films.

After each screening, the audience is allowed a question-and-answer segment and a reception with the director to discuss the films and their meanings.

“This is a great way for filmmakers and communities to connect and interact with each other, something you don’t get a chance to do very often with the larger movies,” Heurtin said.

Southern Circuit transforms watching films from a solitary experience into a communal one.

Audiences will have this opportunity Wednesday, when the Manship Theatre screens the documentary “Member of the Club.”

The film, directed by New Orleans native Phoebe Ferguson, follows the story of Marisa Arianne

to brainstorm ideas to potentially revamp the University’s sculpture garden. There was one requirement — Mardi Gras beads must be incorporated.

The class split up into pairs to sketch ideas and then present their work. After much discussion, the design of Matt Begneaud, sculpture sophomore, was chosen. He envisioned covering the trees with Spanish moss made of Mardi Gras beads.

The deadline for the project was the Monday before the Mardi Gras break.

Schwerd explained that assignment was designed to teach the students how to work together. Some projects are too large for one artist to do alone, so this collaborative project would prepare them for future endeavors.

The students agreed there were moments of mutiny when no one seemed to be able to see eye to eye.

Richard Simmons, sculpture junior, explained that reaching decisions

was no easy task and that most days they wanted to give up the reins.

The students spent an entire class sorting a pile of beads almost six-feet-tall by four-feet-wide into color-coordinated piles. The beads were donated to Schwerd for a previous project. They then began molding chicken wire and stringing the beads into the designs.

The students each spent about eight out-of-class hours working on the project and five hours hanging the art in the trees on Sunday.

All the sculptors complained of chicken wire injuries and dirty beads, but the group thought it was all worth it to finally see their project come together.

“My hands will never be the same,” said Martha Landry, studio art and textiles, apparel and merchandising sophomore.

Simmons explained that the beads did not allow for a full color palette and not being able to work with orange or other various shades

Faced with the threat of clients going to another business that is cheaper—or even doing the work themselves—salons are offering services included in the price of a cut or color to keep clients walking through the door.

“It used to be mostly about quality, but now it’s getting to be very competitive because there’s always someone willing to do more for cheaper,” Colon said. “We do always worry that some people wake up and think, ‘I can cut this service out.’

Anything you can add to [a service] for the same cost of the service alone that’s big. Values like that are what really keep people justifying it.”

Colon said one service Lockworks offers that clients enjoy is education on how to get the salon style

at home.

“We’re really good about educating people on how to style their own hair so they can go maybe a little longer without a haircut,” Colon said. “They definitely appreciate a personal interest.”

Charlene B. Miller, owner of Hair-N-Things Beauty Salon in Jackson, Miss., said that even in the United States’ dire economic situa-

Mitchell, a young woman who has been groomed to be a New Orleans Mardi Gras Queen since she was an infant.

The documentary depicts her family through the 2003-2004 debutante season and the relationships between Marisa, her mother and grandmother and their hopes and struggles as Marisa works toward the crown.

Tickets are $5 for the 7:30 screening Wednesday at the Manship Theatre.

This is the first of three films on the last leg of the Southern Circuit. The fiction film “All About Us” will be shown in March and “A Man Named Pearl,” a documentary about topiary artist Pearl Fryar, will show in April.

“The tour really provides a voice and a step up for these directors who normally won’t be seen,” Heurtin said. “Since there are no real independent theatres around Baton Rouge, then it gives a chance for people to step outside of the box and experience new film.”

Contact Jake Clapp at jclapp@lsureveille.com

MEGAN J. WILLIAMS/ The Daily Reveille

Annelie Pate, photography senior, adjusts beads in a magnolia tree in sculpture garden on Sunday afternoon.

made it difficult to blend the colors.

Purple, green and gold dominated their options.

Shrewd explained that she is aware of how protective the arborists are of the oak trees. Knowing this, the class designated the magnolia trees as the easel for their artwork.

“It’s not exactly how I envisioned it,” Begneaud said. “But I

think it turned out well.”

There is not a set date on when the Mardi Gras moss will be taken down.

tion, women will still keep visiting salons.

“In the beauty business, women are going to get their hair done,” Miller said.

Colon said she felt fortunate to work in an industry that she feels is almost recession-proof.

“Not everyone can justify a $50 haircut when they’re broke,” Colon said. “But this is one of those indus-

tries that no matter how the economy is doing, it’s never going to really suffer because a lot of women cannot justify cutting out a beauty regimen that gives them the confidence to live their daily lives.”

Contact Lindsay Nunez at lnunez@lsureveille.com

Contact Sarah Aycock at saycock@lsureveille.com

monday, february 16, 2009

THE DAILY REVEILLE

PAGE 13

STYLE

Fashion week opens with celebrities, few concessions Michelle Obama hot talk for designers

By Samantha Critchell The Associated Press

NEW YORK (AP) — Celebrities? Check. Over-the-top fashion? Check. Unlimited expense accounts? Well, not so much.

New York Fashion Week kicked off Friday with a few concessions to the economic downturn, but for the well-heeled crowd and even better-heeled models, it was mostly fashion as usual.

Top fashion editors including Anna Wintour jammed into a packed show for Jason Wu, the young designer who was little known before he designed first lady Michelle Obama’s inaugural gown and the dress she wears on the March cover of Vogue.

“The fact that Michelle Obama is wearing Jason Wu makes him hotter than hot,” said Suze Yalof Schwartz, Glam-

our magazine’s fashion editor at large. “I’ve never been to his show before, but it was the only show I wasn’t going to miss this season.”

Mrs. Obama was a no-show, but her impact was clear.

Retailers also stopped by the showroom of Obama’s favorite Chicago designer, Maria Pinto.

And other top designers cited the Obamas as a source of inspiration and optimism as they prepared their fall collections.

“It’s not fair to pin the hopes of the whole industry on one woman, but she has proven she can fuel excitement and optimism, just like her husband,” said Constance White, style director for eBay. There were signs of the sour economy, though not as many as some had anticipated.

Monique Lhuillier and Carmen Marc Valvo were skipping their usual runway shows for smaller presentations outside the tents of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.

Some fashion editors grum-

bled about hailing taxis instead of hopping in their usual town cars.

But there was no lack of glitz. The Heart Truth show to raise awareness about heart disease had plenty of star-power from the likes of Hilary Duff and “90210” stars Jennie Garth and Tori Spelling.

Later in the day, Lindsay Lohan watched girlfriend Samantha Ronson deejay at her sister Charlotte’s show.

And after several somber seasons, the fashion crowd was ready to embrace something that, for their industry, Mrs. Obama embodied: hope.

“There’s a fine line to what’s respectful to what’s going on in the world and being inspiring,” said designer Rachel Roy. “I chose to focus on strength.”

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

JASON DECROW / The Associated Press

The Jason Wu collection is modeled Friday during Fashion Week in New York.

BOX OFFICE

‘Friday the 13th’ nails No. 1 spot

Horror flick sets record for genre

By David Germain The Associated Press

LOS ANGELES (AP) — “Friday the 13th” had all the luck as the remake of the 1980 slasher flick opened with $42.2 million, putting blood and guts ahead of hearts over Valentine’s Day weekend.

That was a record for the horror genre, topping the $39.1 million debut for 2004’s “The Grudge.” Accounting for today’s higher admission prices, “The Grudge” sold slightly more tickets, however.

Released by the Warner Bros. banner New Line Cinema, “Friday the 13th” updates the grisly story of killer Jason Voorhees and his rampage among youths at a secluded summer camp.

On opening day — which fell on Friday the 13th — the remake pulled in $19.4 million, slightly more than the $19 million it cost to make the movie.

“It’s a great title, and it was a great weekend to open. We had Friday the 13th and Valentine’s Day,” said Dan Fellman, head of distribution for Warner Bros.

“I’ve seen it play a number of times, and the audience is with it the whole way. A lot of screams and a lot of laughs.”

The “Friday the 13th” series has been one of the most-enduring horror franchises, spawning 10 sequels, including the crossover grudge match “Freddy Vs. Jason,” pitting Voorhees against the boogeyman from “A Night-

mare on Elm Street.”

The movie bumped off the previous weekend’s top earner, the Warner-New Line romance “He’s Just Not That Into You,” which fell to second-place but held up strongly over Valentine’s weekend with $19.6 million, according to studio estimates Sunday.

Among other new movies, Disney’s comedy “Confessions of a Shopaholic” landed in fourth-place with $15.4 million, while Sony’s thriller “The International” is No. 7 with $10 million.

“Confessions of a Shopaholic” stars Isla Fisher as a magazine retail writer coping with her own compulsive buying habits.

“The International” features Clive Owen as an Interpol agent and Naomi Watts as a prosecutor uncovering a bank’s global misdeeds.

The combination of solid debuts and strong holdovers lifted Hollywood to its best President’s Day weekend ever.

The three-day overall total of $190 million blew away the previous best of $157.1 million over President’s Day weekend in 2007, according to box-office tracker Media By Numbers.

For the year, revenues continue to soar, with revenue at $1.44 billion, up 22 percent through the same point in 2008.

Factoring in 2009’s higher ticket prices, movie attendance is running 20 percent higher than last year’s.

“Hollywood seems to be unstoppable right now. With this notion of the recession helping the box office, I guess this is just another example of that,” said Paul Dergarabedian, president of Me-

dia By Numbers. “People want to go to the movies and just have fun and escape. ‘Friday the 13th’ — as scary as your mortgage banker is — Jason’s scarier.”

Academy Awards front-runner “Slumdog Millionaire” heads into Oscar weekend with sturdy box-office momentum. The Fox Searchlight release took in $7.2 million, raising its 14-week total to $86.5 million.

“Slumdog Millionaire” has dominated at earlier Hollywood honors and is considered the likely best-picture winner at next Sunday’s Oscars.

“The awareness for the film just keeps increasing every week,” said Richard Shamban, vice president of distribution for Fox Searchlight. “The publicity from the awards themselves will continue to help, win or lose.”

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Media By Numbers LLC. Final figures will be released Monday.

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

Pluckers wing bar $14.99 All You Can Eat Wings and $3 Pluckers Lemonade.

If you don’t like our wings, we’ll give you the bird.

Mellow Mushroom pizza Bakers $5 Domestic Pitchers $6 Abita Pitchers

9:00-10:30pm The Duchess 12:00-1:30pm Eagle Eye 7-8:30pm House Bunny

PAGE 14

THE DAILY REVEILLE

monday, february 16, 2009

PRODUCTIONS

Cirque de Soleil troupe coming to Baton Rouge Performance set for Wednesday-Friday

By Jack LeBlanc Entertainment Writer

Flashing lights, dazzling costumes and smiling faces will fill the Baton Rouge River Center this week when Cirque du Soleil’s Saltimbanco Arena Tour makes a stop in the Red Stick.

Cirque du Soleil shows borrow elements from theater, dance and music to create a circus worlds apart from their big-top predecessors.

The Saltimbanco show is based on the urban experience and stresses diversity as a cause for hope. Saltimbanco explores the people who live in a city, the hustle and bustle of the street and the towering heights of

skyscrapers.

The show features 49 artists from a variety of countries and professional backgrounds.

“There is a little bit of ourselves in all our shows,” said Senior Artistic Director Richard Dagenais. “I really enjoy this show because of that personal touch that each artist brings.”

Saltimbanco premiered in 1992 and toured for 14 years under a big-top tent, visiting 75 cities on five continents. In 2007, the show was reconfigured for larger arenas and now each show is able to seat 4,000 to 5,000 spectators.

It is the longest-running of the Cirque de Soleil shows.

Dagenais said the show does not tell a narrative story from beginning to end, but instead expresses the emotions and scenes associated with life in the city.

The show combines circus

staples like acrobatics, juggling and trapeze with more untraditional performances like bungee jumping, artistic bicycling and a Chinese discipline which features 26 acrobats performing at more than 25 feet above the stage.

The Baron, a striking figure dressed in a black and white striped cape, long red gloves and a top hat, is the guide through Saltimbanco. He leads the audiences through a dream-like city where the impossible is often not only possible but likely.

Popular scenes include the Russian swing, Adagio and bungee jumpers.

The Russian swing catapults performers up to 30 feet in the air, where they execute breathtaking aerial jumps before falling either on their feet, on the shoulders of their partners or atop a human pyramid.

Adagio, inspired by a discipline called acrosport, features three acrobats whose bodies meld together to create astonishing figures in a show of strength, flexibility and balance.

The show ends with artists flipping, swaying and bouncing in time with each other in perfect synchronization while attached to bungee cords.

“I love the finale,” Dagenais said. “It’s very dream-like and lyrical and just very beautiful.”

Dagenais said he still enjoys watching the show even though

he’s seen it hundreds of times.

“All our shows have their own certain personality,” Dagenais said. “I got attached with the show and every time I watch it I notice something new.”

Performances are Wednesday and Thursday at 7:30 p.m. and Friday at 3:30 and 7:30 p.m.

Tickets range from $35 to $90 and are available at www.cirquedusoleil.com.

Contact Jack LeBlanc aleblanc@lsureveille.com

photos courtesy of YAN LASALLE

Cirque de Soleil is set to set to perform Wednesday through Friday at the Baton Rouge River Center. Tickets range from $35-$90.

LOUISIANA, from page 11

ties for musicians to get started.

Louisiana hosts VooDoo Music Festival, JazzFest and the Essence Music Festival. While these might not be as big as festivals such as Coachella and Bonnaroo, they bring an excellent mix of artists to our state.

I’ve been to VooDoo Fest twice and have to say it was an enjoyable music experience. I plan on going see Neil Young this May at my first Jazz Fest.

These festivals bring a lot of big name musicians and performers to our state and also showcase a ton of local talent as well. I’m just bothered that the great local talent our state possesses never seems to break it big on the next level that often.

While Louisiana can brag on the amount of talent it has produced in the past with the likes of Louis Armstrong, Buddy Guy, and of course Britney Spears, it seemed we haven’t had any local acts make it real big recently.

I was proven wrong after reading a Rolling Stone article on the best albums of 2008 when something caught my attention. A New Orleans hip-hop duo called The Knux commented on their favorite album of the year, “Tha Carter III.” I had no idea who The Knux were, so I did what any other curious person would do — I looked them up on Wikipedia.

It turns out that the duo comprised of two brothers from New Orleans have notable singles from their debut album “Remind Me In 3 Days.”

The song “Bang, Bang” was featured in the promo for season five of Entourage and “Cappuccino” was used in the movie “Harold and Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay.” The Knux are just one group who have pleasantly surprised me by being so popular and I had never even heard of them. They have even had an appearance on “Jimmy Kimmel Live.”

Their sound and energy are

different from most popular hiphop acts today. They are sure to find more success as they continue to make music.

I tend to by cynical when it comes to entertainment in our lovely state. While Louisiana has produced successful musicians and had great movies filmed here, I am jealous of the talent that comes from other states.

It just seems that there is so much more talent in the rest of the country than in Louisiana, something I’m hoping can be proved wrong.

So I will continue to listen to The Knux, watch The Curious Case of Benjamin Button and wait. I know the future of the music industry in Louisiana has great potential. It’s only a matter of time before Louisiana truly becomes the Hollywood of the South.

Contact Joshua Chenier at jchenier@lsureveille.com

THE DAILY REVEILLE

monday, february 16, 2009 TOURNAMENT, from page 7 5-3 lead.

LSU responded with a three-hit, three-run eighth inning that saw two runs score on sacrifice hits before LSU junior outfielder Rachel Mitchell scored the game-winner on an infield single.

“Rachel Mitchell delivered the way we know and love Rachel Mitchell to hit,” Girouard said. “We’re relying on her for a lot of RBIs. She hasn’t come close to her game yet.”

The Tigers’ game Saturday against Sam Houston State was postponed due to rain, so LSU returned to action Sunday against the Aggies.

Texas A&M used a two-run first inning to take a 3-1 lead after five innings. But LSU rallied again, this time in the sixth inning, for three runs, highlighted by a two-RBI single by sophomore outfielder Ashley Applegate for a 4-3 win.

The Tigers dropped their second game on Sunday in the lowestscoring game of the weekend. Sam Houston State’s Mandy Gegan drove a home run to left field in extra innings to secure a 1-0 victory.

“If it’s 0-2 you’ve got to make sure it’s nowhere close for them to hit it,” said freshman pitcher Brittany Mack. “Mine was a little high, and it didn’t have enough jump and she just barely got it.”

UPSET, from page 7 “If you give Bob Starkey a week to prepare for a game, he’s hard to beat. I thought we’d find some holes, but I didn’t think we’d hold them like we did.”

Florida finished just 32 percent shooting from the field, including 1-of-12 from 3-point range. LSU shot 48 percent and converted 80 percent of its free throws.

The Gators’ 47 points were their lowest scoring output all season long. Their previous season low came in a 61-45 win against Georgia.

Hightower, who led all scor-

REBELS, from page 7 the 11 offensive rebounds corralled

by Ole Miss gave them 15 secondchance points to LSU’s 0.

“We just wanted to guard, and we just wanted to make sure we rebounded the ball and only let them get one shot at the basket,” Temple said.

LSU senior guard Marcus Thornton had that in mind in the second half, pulling down all eight of his rebounds in the second frame.

He also scored 5 straight points, beginning with a 3-pointer, to spark a 13-0 LSU run with a little more than seven minutes left.

“I wasn’t planning on shooting it until Garrett said ‘Shoot it, man, shoot it’,” Thornton said. “It just went off my hands, and it just went in.”

Thornton, who finished with 22 points, closed the gap to 59-62 with a layup. LSU senior center Chris Johnson, who was scoreless in the Tigers’ 97-94 double-overtime victory at Mississippi State, hit a jump shot to pull the Tigers within 1 with 4:52 remaining in the game.

“Chris Johnson really stepped up down the stretch and made some plays when the clock was running

It was a weekend of firsts at the new Tiger Park, as LSU opened its first tournament in its state-of-the-art facility.

Santos’ solo shot Saturday against Texas A&M was LSU’s firstever home run in Tiger Park, and LSU freshman infielder Ashley Langoni performed the Tigers’ second on Sunday.

“Me and Mitchell had a race to see who would do it yesterday,” Santos said on Saturday. “And when I hit a home run I told her I was going to beat her.”

LSU may have solved some of its pitching problems during the weekend. With senior and junior pitchers Dani Hofer and Cody Trahan recovering from offseason surgeries, Mack (2-1) got the first home appearances of her young career.

Mack combined for 25 strikeouts and allowed just 11 hits in two complete starts, and she also earned a save in the Tigers’ second win against Texas A&M. “She’s a bulldog, and good things are going to happen to her,” Girouard said. “She’s going to be a good one when she learns to control herself — for a while there she was existing on one pitch and she still managed to win.”

Contact David Helman at dhelman@lsureveille.com ers with 21 points and also had five steals, said it was important for the team to not have another second-half lapse.

“We’ve had so many close games here that we’ve lost,” Hightower said. “We’re a team to look out for. To get a big win against a top team like Florida feels so good. Today was a complete package. We played defense, and we also knocked down good shots.”

The Gators occasionally got a spark from Dotson and Florida senior guard Sha Brooks, who scored a combined 27 points, but the closest they cut into LSU’s lead was 8 points. down offensively,” Trent Johnson said.

LSU junior forward Tasmin Mitchell, coming off a career-high 41 points against the Bulldogs, hit two free throws to give the Tigers their first lead of the half.

Mitchell finished with 20 points and nine rebounds.

LSU was without one of its key players in sophomore point guard Bo Spencer, who sprained his ankle against Mississippi State.

“Anytime you lose your point guard, it takes away from your continuity and rhythm,” Trent Johnson said.

Temple started at point guard for Spencer, and senior Terry Martin started at the other guard. He scored 11 points and blocked three shots.

Temple dished out nine assists to match his season high, which he set against the Rebels in the team’s first meeting on Jan. 17.

“As a team, we have a lot of interchangeable guards,” Temple said.

“Since they were playing a zone [defense], it was not that tough to run different positions.”

Contact Amos Morale at amorale@lsureveille.com

PAGE 15

ERIN ARLEDGE / The Daily Reveille

LSU junior outfielder Jazz Jackson swings for a hit in the Valentine’s Day game against Texas A&M. The Tigers beat Texas A&M twice but placed second in the weekend tournament after losing to Ohio State and Sam Houston State.

“I’ve been hearing that all week — Brooks, Brooks, Brooks,” said LSU sophomore guard Latear Eason, who was matched against the Florida guard throughout the game. “So I just wanted to come in here today and stop her. I knew she was a big factor in them winning some big games this year.”

LSU senior forward Kristen Morris continued her defensive prowess, totaling seven rebounds, three steals and two blocks in 32 minutes. Florida coach Amanda Butler said defense was the factor that pushed LSU over the top.

“LSU played a great ball game. Obviously we did not,” Butler said. “We’re the best of-

fensive team on some nights, and LSU has proven they’re the best defensive team in the conference.

In this conference, going and playing on someone else’s home court is the toughest thing to do, and we really weren’t ready for that challenge.”

The Lady Tigers never trailed in a game Chancellor said was a signature win for his young team in its push for an NCAA tournament bid.

“We beat the No. 9 team in the country,” he said. “This is a great win for us — a great win for the team, our spirits. We beat a really good team by 19 points.”

Freshman guard LaSondra

Barrett scored in double figures for the 12th time this season with her 11-point effort, and Eason finished with a game-high six assists.

Morris said it was good for the Lady Tigers to “catch a win” against Florida and build momentum for their next game Thursday against Georgia and their last two games to close the season.

“We knew Florida was good scoring-wise,” Morris said. “We wanted to make sure if they punched, we punched back harder.”

Contact Rachel Whittaker at rwhittaker@lsureveille.com

THE DAILY REVEILLE

Opinion

PAGE 16

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2009

OUR VIEW

Class blog a good idea to inform students about budget It’s hard to steer clear of constant talk about the economy. From television news stations to national publications, the most common topic of conversation is the recession.

All the talk about how bad things are and how much worse they could get can be a little repetitive.

But one group of University students

is trying to spread information and spark conversation in an up-to-date method.

Students in a political communication class have developed the Save Our Schools blog — a Web site designed to discuss the monetary problems the University and the LSU System are facing.

We believe for college-aged students to fully grasp the difficulties the University and System are facing, it’s vital modern media, like blogs, be used.

We all live in a generation where TV and newspapers aren’t always the primary sources of information, regardless of the topic. Some people’s

sole sources of news are blogs and Web sites like Facebook and MySpace.

And popular sites like these should also be utilized to get the word out about the economy and more specifically, the budget cuts that could have a large impact on our academic futures.

You can follow the SOS blog at sos-saveourschools.blogspot.com Students spreading the word and enlightening their colleagues in any way possible is a good thing.

Contact the Editorial Board at editor@lsureveille.com

JUXTAPOSED NOTIONS

Congress teams up with YouTube, posts blogs In an unorthodox effort to take transparency to a new level, the federal government has teamed up with YouTube to create a network of userfriendly channels designed to engage citizens in the political process.

This online invasion is hardly surprising. Unless your head was under a rock for the past year, you’ll remember quite well the tech-savvy nature of President Barack Obama’s campaign and how it revamped American politics. YouTube served him well during his campaign — who could forget the Obama Girl? — so there’s no reason why it shouldn’t now.

Love the new president’s policies or not, this brand of progress is something we should all embrace.

It’s long overdue, especially considering the American population is, by and large, politically uninitiated.

Embracing YouTube is hardly the only thing the new administration has done. Obama and his staff

had to untangle landlines and update 6-year-old computer software upon entering the White House. Afterwards, Obama appointed the nation’s first Chief Technology Officer to ensure that our government and all its agencies have the right infrastructure, policies and services for the 21st century.

That was just the first step taken to bring the administration out of the technological Dark Ages.

Congress made its debut on YouTube with a video featuring House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, House Minority Leader John Boehner, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell.

Pelosi, who was the first staff member to use YouTube in 2006, acknowledged “the importance of using technology to communicate with constituents” as the reason for creating channels for the House and Senate — named househub and

senatehub, respectively.

The format of househub and senatehub is user-friendly and features a Google map interface which allows citizens to browse representatives by state.

From there, you can navigate to your lawmakers’ personal channels, where they post “videos direct from Linnie Leavines their WashingColumnist ton offices, as well as clips of floor speeches and committee hearings alongside additional behind-the-scenes footage from Capitol Hill”, according to the official blog.

In addition to the congressional channels, a separate channel is dedicated to the White House. It includes events, announcements and weekly addresses from Obama and his staff.

Essentially, YouTube is now the

digital equivalent of a backstage pass to the federal government.

“These YouTube channels have the potential to make Congress more transparent and accessible than ever before,” YouTube’s head of news and political content, Steve Grove, wrote in his blog post, “but only if you continue to connect and engage with your government on the site.”

This interaction factor is one of the many things that make utilizing YouTube superior to simply watching C-SPAN. The accessibility of the videos allows for easy viewing and commentary. Instead of calling into CSPAN and hoping that you get put through, you can comment, blog, rate, post a video response and e-mail your representative. The chances of your voice being heard are increased exponentially.

As an added bonus, there are several behind the scenes videos to be found for those willing to browse.

One excellent example is Texas Congressman Ron Paul’s series called “Dr. Paul’s Walls”. His series addresses important issues including the possible reinstatement of the draft, the causes and consequences of hyperinflation and his thoughts on TARP funds.

A less enlightening one is Nancy Pelosi’s Rick-roll video prank cleverly disguised as a documentary of her pet cats.

Well, they can’t all be winners.

Regardless of the content, these channels are sure to become centerpieces for political praise, group lynching, thoughtful discourse, meme spamming and other forms of sophisticated Internet interaction.

Welcome to YouTube, Congress.

Contact Linnie Leavines at lleavines@lsureveille.com

WALK HARD

Separation of church and state benefits churches

For many Christians, mission work is essential to the practice of their faith. But for many churches, missions are simply the vehicle for conversion. The focus becomes conversion — perhaps to the detriment of compassion.

After Hurricane Katrina — when the federal government’s response was unconscionably slow — the Southern Baptist Convention mobilized to provide hundreds of thousands of meals to victims.

The Southern Baptist Convention was able to put tens of thousands of trained volunteers into action throughout the Gulf Coast region in the early days of recovery.

But the response to another hurricane in 2005 shows a different side of faith-based aid.

An Alabama-based group of Southern Baptists refused to give out

cans of water to storm-battered residents of Clewiston, Fla., following Hurricane Wilma in 2005, according to an October 2005 NBC report.

“Twenty-two pallets of the canned water, distributed free by beer company Anheuser-Busch, bears the company’s label — and members of the Southern Baptist Convention refused to hand it out to those in need,” according to the report.

Instead of focusing on the needs of those affected by a terrible storm, the group was more concerned with maintaining their doctrinal beliefs against alcohol.

“It is the duty and privilege of every follower of Christ and every church of the Lord Jesus Christ to endeavor to make disciples of all nations … to seek constantly to win the lost to Christ by verbal witness

THE DAILY REVEILLE Editorial Board

KYLE WHITFIELD TYLER BATISTE GERRI SAX DANIEL LUMETTA MATTHEW ALBRIGHT TRAVIS ANDREWS ERIC FREEMAN JR.

Editor Managing Editor, Content Managing Editor, External Media Opinion Editor Columnist Columnist Columnist

undergirded by a Christian lifestyle, and by other methods in harmony with the gospel of Christ,” says the Southern Baptist Convention’s Web site.

It is not only the Southern Baptist Church that fosters this perspective, but every mainline Christian denomination Drew Walker believes the Columnist mission of the church was spoken by Christ in Matthew 28: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations.”

Conversion cannot be forced.

That is what conservative Christians seem to want to accomplish through political activism. They are motivated, not by compassion for

those in need, but by a call to convert every unsaved sinner.

Instead of trying to reduce the number of situations where abortion is considered as an option, they spend millions of dollars to overturn Roe v. Wade.

Instead of offering condemnation-free marriage counseling to reduce the number of divorces, they fight against gay marriage.

Political activism is commendable, but when coupled with a repressive, unalterable sense of moral superiority, it becomes dangerous.

Pastors are not politicians, nor should they be. Politics are a dirty business, and churches will only sully themselves by getting involved.

Preachers who advocate a political agenda that conforms to their peculiar religious beliefs don’t get anything done — except painting

themselves and their congregations as uncompassionate.

Instead of ridiculing secular organizations whose focus overlaps with those of Christian charities, churches should band together with them and utilize the increased resources available to fight poverty, disease and injustice.

No amount of preaching or prayer will put bread in front of a starving child or keep teens from making poor decisions regarding their bodies. It takes people who offer love, not dogma.

The mission of conversion should be kept separate from the mission of compassion.

Contact Drew Walker at dwalker@lsureveille.com

EDITORIAL POLICIES & PROCEDURES

QUOTE OF THE DAY

The Daily Reveille (USPS 145-800) is written, edited and produced solely by students of Louisiana State University. The Daily Reveille is an independent entity within the Manship School of Mass Communication. Signed opinions are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of the editor, paper or University. Letters submitted for publication should be sent via e-mail to opinion@lsureveille.com or delivered to B-26 Hodges Hall. They must be 400 words or less. Letters must have a contact phone number so the opinion editor can verify the author. The phone number won’t be printed. The Daily Reveille reserves the right to edit letters and guest columns for space consideration without changing the original intent. The Daily Reveille also reserves the right to reject any letter without notification of the author.

Writers must include their full names and phone numbers. The Daily Reveille’s editor-in-chief, hired every semester by the Louisiana State University Media Board, has final authority on all editorial decisions.

“Take the first step in faith. You don’t have to see the whole

staircase, just take the first step.”

Martin Luther King Jr. American civil rights activist Jan. 15, 1929 - April 4, 1968

THE DAILY REVEILLE

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2009

NIETZSCHE IS DEAD

Opinion

PAGE 17

Media frenzy over Anthony’s death inappropriate

Modern TV news is one of the most pervasive and influential mediums of communication in the modern world.

As time passes, it seems increasingly likely it’s for the worst.

As television as a medium has matured, it has relied more on sensationalism and creating and maintaining a spectacle instead of reporting what is newsworthy.

Most of the time, the exercise seems somewhat academic — the concern of only media critics or mass communications professors.

But sometimes TV journalism simply crosses the line.

The most recent example is the case of Caylee Anthony, the missing 3-year old whose disappearance triggered a media frenzy. While authorities and volunteers searched for the girl, the media latched onto the case. Reporters were stationed semipermanently outside of her house, and that of her grandparents’ — who

became overnight celebrities of the most macabre kind.

Media personalities descended like vultures on the story, commenting religiously on the most minor developments — or lack thereof.

CNN’s Nancy Grace — the drawling “defender of justice” — took up Anthony’s disappearance as her personal crusade, calling in as many officials involved with the case as she could — and promptly grilling them for having not already found her.

Tragically, Anthony’s skeletal remains were eventually found. Her mother, Casey Anthony, has been charged with her murder.

The story of this toddler’s death is undeniably a heart-breaking tragedy. It is totally appropriate that the story be told and that condolences are offered to the family for their loss.

What actually happened is not appropriate — what should have been a private tragedy was blown

into a public spectacle.

The circus reached its absurd climax at the public memorial service — a service attended by more than 1,000 people and aired on CNN last Tuesday.

The service, in many ways, conflicts with a Matthew Albright eulogy written Columnist by the slain girl’s grandmother saying, “The family is requesting that those with only the purest of hearts and truly honorable intentions attend the service for their beloved child.”

These words seem hypocritical for a eulogy delivered to CNN for national publication, in reference to a memorial set in a venue with capacity for 5,000.

Although no amount of sympathy can suffice for the Anthonys,

their actions during this ordeal hardly seem like those who value the privacy of their mourning. While the media obsessed over Caylee Anthony, her grandparents made regular TV appearances.

Their publicist – yes, they had a publicist — quit in exasperation, citing “the Anthony family’s erratic behavior.”

Yet the Anthonys can hardly be blamed for this. Instead, the journalistic behemoth that is modern television bears the responsibility for offering a golden pedestal of hypocrisy almost impossible to avoid.

After all, it seems foolish to ignore the chance for national attention, especially when that attention is nominally for your missing granddaughter.

The memorial service was occasionally filled with blatantly disrespectful material. One commentator obsessed over the buttons the family wore — one of which memorialized

Caylee, the other showed support for the mother Casey.

When one of the commentators noticed the father wasn’t wearing one of the buttons, they immediately launched into rabid speculation, claiming this was evidence he believed his daughter had killed her son, and was dead to him.

Although the Anthony story is a tragic one indeed, this kind of coverage is not of respectful condolence, but of a shallow, sensationalist publicity stunt.

In their quest for ratings, and to fill the insatiable maw that is a 24hour news cycle, television networks will milk every ounce of drama out of a story — even if that means turning a private tragedy into a public spectacle.

Contact Matthew Albright at malbright@lsureveille.com

METAIRIE’S FINEST

We should trust bands to make music, decisions We live in an often angry, uninformed and distrustful society.

The anger and ignorance is easy to find — just check out the YouTube video of T.I.’s “Swagga Like Us,” featuring M.I.A. Now count the comments claiming she looks terrible and blown up like a balloon. Count the ones calling her ugly and fat.

Now find the one or two that explain she’s nine months pregnant. I don’t even like M.I.A., but come on.

The distrust is even easier to find. FOX just released a new show titled “Lie to Me,” whose constant commercials seem to highlight the excitement of lying. And distrust is easy when everyone can easily hide behind a wall of text on a screen.

This anger, ignorance and distrust can even bleed into our personal entertainment.

Kim Gordon of Sonic Youth recently partnered with Urban Outfitters by making the Mirror/Dash clothing line available exclusively at the aforementioned store, according to Pitchfork Media. This follows Sonic Youth, one of the seminal indie bands crafting and creating a unique blend of noise-rock post-punk, releasing a greatest hits album through Starbucks.

It is becoming far less strange for an “indie” band to partner with large corporations for advertisements or promotions.

Wilco helped sell Volkswagens. Feist helped sell iPods. Modest Mouse, fronted by a man who recently cut himself with a knife onstage, helped sell Nissan minivans.

Postal Service and UPS. Yael Naim and Apple Computers. The Walkmen and Saturn. Mogwai and Levi’s. Of Montreal and Outback Steakhouse.

Even way back to Daft Punk and The Gap.

This seems totally reasonable.

One of the purposes of creating music for a living is creating music. The other is making a living.

So, the logic follows.

But, according to NPR, “indie bands are viewing TV commercials as a harmless way to make money, but fans argue that the music becomes controlled by advertising directors rather than driven by the artist.”

This is ridiculous on several levels.

It is the same argument Travis Andrews that comes up when indie rock Columnist fans complain about their bands getting too popular, which is often seen as a way of selling out rather than for what it is — a way to continue developing their art.

Many fans don’t actually trust bands they support to make the decisions needed to remain a “pure” band. It’s not as if the bands listed earlier lost their ability to make music. They just managed to make it more lucrative.

In an interview with The Onion’s AV Club, Isaac Brock of Modest Mouse defended the use of his music in commercials: “People who don’t have to make their living playing music can bitch about my principles while they spend their parents’ money or wash dishes for some asshole. Principles are something that people are a lot better at checking in other people than keeping their own.”

What a band creates should be seen as the band’s property. While this often isn’t the case, if a band wants to license its song to sell something — regardless of how inane that said

something is — we should trust their competence in decision-making.

After all, that band is the one with the option, not me.

Anyway, fans are often shortsighted in what can be gained from the sales of a band’s music.

Just look at Spinto Band.

“After a hefty offer from Sears

to use their song ‘Oh Mandy’ in a television ad, Delaware-based Spinto Band decided the offer was too lucrative to pass up. They used the money to fund a European tour,” according to NPR. So next time you’re seeing your favorite indie band, after watching a poorly produced commercial

featuring your favorite song, remember that commercial might have paid for them to be on the stage before you.

Trust the bands you like.

Contact Travis Andrews at tandrews@lsureveille.com

BAD REPORTER

cartoon courtesy of UNIVERSAL PRESS SYNDICATE

HELP WANTED

PAGE 18

PLACE YOUR AD TODAY

Got something to sell? Want to make an announcement? Need to find an apartment or roommate?

With the potential to reach over 33,000 LSU students, faculty and staff, there is no better way to advertise. Not only do we print twice a week, but there is no additional charge to place your classified ad on the world wide web at www.lsureveille.com. Just click “classifieds,” where your ad can be viewed on our website, that averages up to 65,000 unique visitors a week. For more information, please call (225) 578-6090.

PLACE AND PAY FOR YOUR CLASSIFIED AD ONLINE @

www.lsureveille.com

35¢

PER WORD, PER DAY

CLASSIFIEDS INDEX HELP WANTED PERSON A L S FOR S A L E FOR RENT T YPING R O O M M ATES SEEKING TICKET S LOS T A N D F O U N D T R AV E L M I S C E L L ANEOUS

CLASSIFIEDS POLICY

The Daily Reveille is not responsible for the content of any classified and reserves the right to reject any ad. Advertisers must agree to accept the type sizes and styles of The Daily Reveille. No refunds will be made for errors in the classifieds, as ads are proofed by the person placing the ad. No refunds will be given in the event of an overrun, as advertisers select thier own dates in which to insert the ad. In the event of error, immediate notice must be given to the staff: the publishers are responsible for only ONE incorrect insertion. All claims and adjustments must be made no later than 15 days after publication.

Deadline for ads is 12 noon two working days prior to the print publication date.

ADS MUST BE PAID FOR IN ADVANCE BY CHARGE ON OUR WEB SITE AT CLASSIFIEDS.LSUREVEILLE.COM.

Classifieds HELP WANTED WE PAY UP TO $75 per online survey. www. CashToSpend.com C H I M E S R E S T AU R A N T 3357 Highland Road Accepting applications for all positions.

Apply in person, only. 11AM-5PM Monday-Frid THE ROYAL S TANDARD - warehouse/ stock associate needed to unload trucks & make deliveries for furniture store. Hours available on Tues, Thurs, & some Sat. Email beachbuzz@cox.net 225.751.0009 THE UNIVERSIT Y CLUB Golf Course is now hiring servers, beverage cart attendants, kitchen staff, and outside service staff. Call 819-0800 for more information.

GREAT HOURS! GREAT PAY! Texas Roadhouse is now hiring for servers and hosts. Please apply in person at 10360 N. Mall Dr. M-Th between the hours of 2 and 4 pm. 225.293.0144 A. C. LEWIS YMCA OPENINGS Now hiring for the following positions: Extended Day Counselor. M-F afternoons 3-6pm. Pay Rate $7.25.

Extended Day Site Director.

Responsible for the oversight of the extended day school sites. M-F afternoons 3-6pm. Pay Rate $7.50-$8.50.

Exercise & Game Room Activity Coordinator(XRKADE). Responsible for the scheduling of member challenges and events in the activity game room.

M-F 3-8pm and some weekends. Pay Rate $7.50-$8.50.

Please e-mail resume, apply in person, or contact Eddrick Martin if interested. emartin@ymcabatonrouge.org 225.924.3606 P T C H E M I S TRY INTERN for Geismar area company serving petro-chemical industry. Duties to include data entry (experience with MS Access a plus), misc. laboratory duties, and possible time in the field. Flexible schedule- up to 34 hours per week. 1st and 2nd year Chemistry majors encouraged to apply. $10 to $14 per hour, DOE. Email resume to resumes@inquirieshr.com ~ No phone calls, please.

P E R F E C T PA R T T I M E P O S I T I O N Afternoon Preschool Teacher needed for child care center near LSU.2:305:30 M-F 225-766-1159 S TUDENT WORK Local BR company expanding Fast! *$15.00 Base/appt* Flexible Schedules No experience nec Customer sales/ svc Conditions Apply Ages 17+ Apply NOW 225-927-3066 www.collegestudentwork.com BUSINESS OPPOR T U N I T Y Startup Publishing Company seeking a business partner. Part-time 8-10 hours a week. Fringe benefits and a share in profits.

For more information email, shabazz@19thletterpublications.com

STUDENTPAY OUT S. COM Paid Survey Takers Needed In Baton Rogue. 100% Free To Join! Click On Surveys.

CYPRESSMOUNDS BASEBALL COMPLEX Cypress Mounds Baseball Complex is currently accepting applications for the following positions: Administration, Retail, Ticket Sales, Food Services, Maintenance. Wages will be $7.00 $10.00 per hour based upon qualifications and experience. Work will be on weeknights and weekends. Flexible Scheduling. To apply, please contact Eric Wiethorn at 225-757-5550 extension 203 to set up an appointment.

225.757.5550 PRESCHOOL looking for loving and nurturing individuals to work AM shifts.

Very Competitive pay. 225.924.6772 YMCA - CHILDCARE S TA F F P / T Kids Zone Nursery, After School Care, and Childcare staff. Flex schedules, morning/afternoon/evenings. Expd. w/passion for caring for children.

Apply: Paula G. Manship YMCA, 8100 YMCA Plaza Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA or call 767-9622 (Lindsay or Nathan). !BAR TENDING! Up to $300/Day. No Experience Necessary. Training Provided. Age 18+ OK 1-800-9656520 xt127 Y OUTH FUN-FITNESS INS T R U C T O R S Exerfit is looking for high energy, responsible instructors to run fitness/game oriented classes for youth. Spring/summer jobs available.

Fax resume to (225) 706-1634.

SWIMMING LESSONS INS T R U C T O R S NEEDED Great Part Time Afternoon Spring Semester Job-Full 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 SURVEY TAKERS NEEDED: Make $5$25 per survey. www.

GetPaidToThink.com M A N S U R S O N T H E B O U L E V ARD GREAT COLLEGE JOB! RESTAURANT NOW HIRING SERVER ASSISTANTS AND HOSTESSES. NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY. ALSO NEED EXPERIENCED WAIT STAFF. MUST BE ABLE TO WORK A FEW DAY SHIFTS AND WEEKENDS. APPLY DAILY @ 5720 CORPORATE BLVD. 225.923.3366 SURVEY RESEARCHERS NEEDED!!

LSU’s Public Policy Research Lab is now hiring survey researchers for weekend and night work only. Must have a clear speaking voice, be friendly, willing to communicate with people over the phone, and to follow set procedures. Pay is competitive, $7-9/hour.

Flexible hours! Great place to work!

Prior experience a plus but not required.

Contact Kathryn Rountree, Operations Manager, krount1@lsu.edu to set up an interview.

CHILDCARE CENTER in CENTRAL seeking to hire part-time afternoon teach-

ers for two-year old and three-year old classes. Please call 225.262.4481 WEEKEND LEASING A GENT Needed for apartment community on Jefferson Hwy. Compensation is an apartment. Great opportunity for a college student. Fax resume to 225-9249893 PARKVIEW BAPTIS T PRESCHOOL Preschool Teachers needed 3-6 p.m. flex days. no degree required 293-9447 H O R T AND L A N D S C A R C H S T U D E N T S Immediate P/ T and weekend Spring openings on Coursey in B. R., or on Hwy. 42 near Airline in Prvl. Sell the latest in plants, ponds, and gardening lifestyle products. email:harb.oasis@gmail.com Learn while you earn $9-$10/ hr.at Harb’s

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2009 Oasis PBRC S TUDY: PBRC is looking for people to participate in a new research study. The purpose of this study is to determine how your body weight today impacts your health in the future.

Participants will be placed on a higher calorie meal plan for 8 weeks. All meals will be provided to you at no cost. Earn up to $3800. Call 7633000 DON’T MISS THIS OPPOR T U N I T Y! Now hiring for all positions at the following locations: JEFFERSON 7615 Jefferson Hwy Baton Rouge 70809 PERKINS ROWE 7707 Bluebonnet Blvd. Baton Rouge 70810 “Flexible schedules & Benefits for Full Time Associates” Please apply in person during regular

THE DAILY REVEILLE

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2009 restaurant hours.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Walk to class! 3000 July St. 225-3465055. www.tigermanor.com

CAREGIVERS NEEDED St. James Episcopal Church Nursery is seeking dependable people for Sunday mornings 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. $10/hour Please send resume’ to stjamescare@yahoo.com

1 ROOMATE NEEDED to share new 4 bedroom house at Nicholson Lakes.

Washer/ dryer. $420/ month + 1/4 utilities. 5 miles to campus.

805.551.0471 or 225.405.0918

EARN EXTR A MONEY Students needed ASAP Earn up to $150 per day being a mystery shopper No Experience Required Call 1-800-722-4791 N E E D E X T R A $CASH$?

We are filling 8 positions ASAP-great starting pay, part-time/full-time available. We provide training, customer sales/service. Conditions apply-CALL NOW:225-927-7424 or apply at zf9.com FOR SALE QUEEN PILLOWTOP MATTRESS Brand name queen pillowtop mattress set new in plastic $150. 225-924-5336 TIGER MANOR CONDOMINIUMS. U N I T S READY FOR SPRING & FA L L 2009!! Brand new 1, 2, and 3 bed room units for sale star ting at $124,900. Ask about our Guaranteed Buy - B a c k P r o g r a m ! ! 3 0 0 0 J u l y S t .

225-346-5055 www.tigermanor.com CONDO FOR S ALE 3 Bedroom 3 Bath Two-story Condo for sale Jessica’s Landing 1500 Brightside Dr $188,50 225.241.9043 FOR RENT 3 B R / 2 B AT H H O U S E F O R R E N T 3104 Wilshire near Acadian/Government. $1,000.00/month no e-mail. 225.925.9570 1 B R / 1 B A F O R L E A S E ! M U S T SEE!! $950/mo includes all utilities including electric, cable & internet. All appliances are included! Gated community. across from city park. www.keyfindersbr.com 225.293.3000 2BD1BTH SPACIOUS HOUSE. 368 Ardenwood. $1295. Fncd yd. New Remodel. PetsOk. 225.572.0463 3BR/2.5BA 1500SQFT $1110/MONTH 5291 S. Brightside View Drive: On-Site Manager, Flexible Leasing Terms, Washer & Dryer, Ceiling Fans, Central A/C, Near Bus Stop, Small Pets Allowed, Master Bedroom has it’s own Bathroom and Walk-In Closet. Available Now 225.978.7400 WALK TO L SU CAMPUS 2BR/1B duplex just remodeled like new. $650/M Pet ok. Wood & Tile floors.

Available Now!McDaniel Prop.

225.388.9858 T I G E R TOWN 1BR UNF 3299 Ivanhoe St. stove, fridge, AC 1BR $400 9275495 or 7660579 DOWNTOWN RIVERVIEW CONDOS Renovated 2 BR/2BA, granite counters, cypress cabinets. Fresh paint. $1200/mo. Plus deposit. Call Don 368-3240 TIGER MANOR CONDOMINIUMS. U N I T S READY FOR SPRING & FA L L 2009! Brand new 1, 2, & 3 bedrooms available. Reserve your unit today!

*L A K E B E A U P R E ’ T O W N H O M E S * Reserve your place now for Summer/ Fall ’09.

2br/2.5b - $1300/ mo.

3br/3.5b - $1650/ mo.

Featuring Clubhouse with Pool, Tennis Court, Gym. All Appliances Included.

Dean Flores Real Estate 225.767.2227 2 BR 2 1/2 BATH CONDO FOR RENT Arlington Trace Condo for lease! Near LSU. $900 per month for the first three months of rent!! Then $1150 per month. 985.778.9161 3BR/2BA CONDO Like New. Free Cable. Community Pool. Extra Parking.

Great Location at LSU. $1500/mo.

225.202.1148 L SU: TIGERL AND 1 & 2 BR. FLAT & TH WOOD FLOORS, POOL, LAUNDRY, QUIET $525-$725 225.766.7224 ROOMMATES MAKE OFFER TO take over my daughter’s lease; 3 bedroom apt at Sterling Northgate. Share with 2 females.

225.324.8995 MAS TER & REGUL AR BEDROOM pvt bath $370. Reg. room $260. Nice house. W&D. Alarm etc. No lease needed. $250 deposit. 225.921.1209

PERSONALS C R ACKING THE GRE!!! I need your HELP!!! Are you tired of studying for GRE alone? Do you wanna help me?

I’ll appreciate that. mmartin7@lsu.edu GLUTEN-FREE Gluten-intolerant student seeking to meet other participants of gluten-free lifestyle! celiad650@gmail.com FASCIN ATED? Looking for a male senior too focused to read the personals and too cute to need the personals... yet too curious to not respond. brightlight425@gmail.com NICE GUYS FINISH FIRS T Tall, independent, blonde senior looking for smart, cute, sensible guy. I love reading, walks, and family. Email if interested: sunsetbridge281@gmail.com LF1M Quietly confident and fun male tired of gaming alone. Looking for shy guy to play with, hang out, and maybe date.

Let’s take a chance. Hope you are out there! lsugaymer@gmail.com I WANT TO BE YOUR DERIVATIVE so I can lie tangent to your curves. Nerdy ndn chick seeking an intelligent and attractive conversationalist. Ladies only, please—I’m tired of natural logs approaching the asymptote. sheenyinabottle@hotmail.com LOOKING FOR MY SOULMATE I am a Business Major here at LSU. I am also AAmerican with shoulder length red hair, and full figured. Looking for guys ages 45-60. Who enjoy full figured

PAGE 19 ladies. If you are interested send me an email. c.mumford@yahoo.com SEARCHING 4 SOULMATE 20yo Asian guy seeking masculine guy 18-23 to date. Races open. I’m a sweetheart! tigerboy1988@gmail.com MISCELLANEOUS FREE SCREENING January 28th - 3pm “Way of War” At The Varsity

FREE SCREENING January 28th - 1pm “Are You Afraid 2” At The Varsity CASH FOR JUNK Do You Have: Cracked, Water Damaged iPhone or iPod Send an e-mail to cashforjunknow@gmail.com Include description of Item and Damage and RECIEVE CASH NOW

L o c a t i o n .

L o c a t i o n .

L o c a t i o n .

2 2 5 .

3 4 6 .

5 0 5 5t i g e r ma n o r . c o m 3 0 0 0J u l yS t r e e t B a t o nR o u g e L A7 0 8 0 8