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Baton Rouge retailers’ sales predicted ENTERTAINMENT to decrease on Valentine’s Day Students flock to DJ because of Southerners focusing on Pauly D at Bogie’s Super Bowl and Mardi Gras, page 9. Bar, page 9.
GEAUX TIME
Lady Tigers look to push past recent losses in Florida game, page 5.
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VolumeÊ 114,Ê IssueÊ 89
LAW
Former professor sues for retribution
Thursday,Ê FebruaryÊ 11,Ê 2010
RepreCENSUS campaign promotes national census locally
By Xerxes A. Wilson Senior Staff Writer
Former University professor Ivor van Heerden filed a lawsuit against the University claiming his contract was not renewed because of his outspoken criticism of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Van Heerden filed suit yesterday for monetary relief from the University Board of Supervisors; Brooks Keel, former vice chancellor for research and economic development; Robert Twilley, associate vice chancellor for research and economic development; George Voyiadjis, chair of the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department; and David Constant, graduate school dean. For reasons not fully disclosed by the University, van Heerden’s contract was not renewed in April 2009. Ò When they terminated my position, they told me it was nothing to do with the economy or my performance and they didnÕ t have to supply a reason,Ó van Heerden said. The suit claims Constant Ñ LAWSUIT, see page 19
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ERIN ARLEDGE / The Daily Reveille
Log on to explore the repreCENSUS page.
Jennie Armstrong, mass communication junior, and Erica Fischer, mass communication senior, from the Bateman team are promoting the repreCENSUS campaign around Baton Rouge. They passed out stickers Tuesday at the Varsity Theatre.
By Grace Montgomery Staff Writer
College students are often counted among the transient communities that can be missed in census counts. Some students believe their parents should fill out the census for them. But, students are encouraged to complete the census where they live
for most of the year. The government allocates more than $400 billion in federal funding to communities based on census data, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This funding affects transportation, public health and education nationally. The repreCENSUS campaign, a team of University students participating in the national
Bateman competition in public relations, is promoting participation in the census to University students and the Baton Rouge community. RepreCENSUS plans to commit 3,000 Baton Rouge residents and college students to fill out the census. To complete this goal, the team is promoting CENSUS, see page 19
FORUM
Chancellor discusses possible solutions to budget cuts Martin opens floor to worried faculty By Mary Walker Baus Contributing Writer
Chancellor Michael Martin addressed the UniversityÕ s state of financial stress to a crowd of more than 200 students, faculty and staff Wednesday at the first Faculty Senate-Chancellor Forum of the spring semester. Martin said higher education is one of the smallest and least protected parts of the stateÕ s budget.
“We have to figure out ways not only to encourage the state to make the investments it needs to make [in higher education],Ó Martin said. “But we also have to offer alternatives so we can have greater control to ensure our destiny is not in the hands of the economy or political forces.Ó Martin said to help the UniversityÕ s situation, tuition and fees need to increase. Ò I believe, over time, students have to pick up a better share of their education at LSU,Ó he said. In addition to the increase of tuition and fees, Martin said the University needs to restructure academic programs, build a
billion-dollar endowment and jump on entrepreneurship opportunities. The University needs to be careful of pushing its agenda so it doesnÕ t appear self-serving, Martin said. Ò We apparently have not done a good enough job in 150 years on educating the public [about LSU],Ó he said. He said he hopes the governorÕ s budget does not have more financial hits for higher education in the next fiscal year. The government and legislature are more likely to listen to the CHANCELLOR, see page 19
J.J. ALCANTARA / The Daily Reveille
Justin Walsh, art history assistant professor, tells Chancellor Michael Martin during a forum Wednesday for University faculty that cutting the ranks of instructors from the school’s academic core will have negative affects on LSU.
THE DAILY REVEILLE
Nation & World
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2010
INTERNATIONAL
NATIONAL
Media watchdog: 110 journalists killed in 2009 including 55 in Asia
Calif. man allegedly tried to buy boys’ urine at elementary school
VIENNA (AP) — A total of 110 journalists lost their lives in 2009, the deadliest year in a decade for the profession, a media watchdog said Thursday. Asia, where 55 journalists died, was the most lethal region the International Press Institute said in its annual World Press Freedom Review.
MANHATTAN BEACH, Calif. (AP) — Manhattan Beach police have arrested a man they claim tried to buy urine from boys at an elementary school. Sgt. Brian Brown said an 18-year-old man was arrested on Monday for investigation of annoying children. He remained jailed Wednesday on $150,000 bail. Authorities believe the man walked into a restroom at Pacific Elementary School last week and offered two boys several dollars to urinate in a cup. School officials said they refused.
Cult-like Israeli busted over harem says he’s innocent of charges JERUSALEM (AP) — A cult-like Israeli figure who kept a harem of women and fathered their children says allegations he enslaved and raped some of them are false. Goel Ratzon spoke for the first time since his arrest last month at a court hearing Wednesday. “It’s not true, they can say whatever they want,” he told reporters when asked about the allegations. Police accuse Ratzon, 60, of keeping at least 17 women.
Man walks into Wal Mart, smashes 29 TVs with baseball bat LILBURN, Ga. (AP) — Police in Georgia say a 23-year-old man grabbed a baseball bat inside of a Walmart and smashed 29 flat-screen televisions. Police in Lilburn near Atlanta have charged Westley Strellis with 29 counts of criminal damage to
property in the second degree. Witnesses tell police he grabbed a metal baseball bat from the sporting goods section Wednesday, walked to the electronics department and destroyed the TVs on display. He was arrested not long after that. Police say the televisions are valued at over $22,000. Police do not know if he has an attorney. Ohio man accused of tattooing toddler’s rear end with the letter ‘A’ LOUISVILLE, Ohio (AP) — Police say an Ohio man tattooed the letter “A’’ on the rear end of a 1-year-old girl visiting his home. Twenty-year-old Lee Deitrick of Louisville was arraigned Wednesday on a felony child endangering charge in Canton Municipal Court. Authorities say there’s no evidence the toddler’s mother permitted the November tattooing. It’s not clear what the letter “A’’ signifies. Deitrick’s grandmother calls the tattoo “a wee-little hairline” and says there’s hardly anything left of it.
STATE/LOCAL
New Orleans trash man’s ‘Trashmen’ show debuts on TLC
Big rig knocks over gas and diesel pump, kills many small fish
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — New Orleans trash mogul Sidney Torres is hoping his multimillion-dollar garbage business will make for good TV. Torres, 34, and his company, SDT Waste and Debris Services — launched in response to the need for trash and debris removal after Hurricane Katrina — star in a pilot called “Trashmen,” premiering Thursday on the TLC Network. The show will focus on Torres, a real estate developer who was set to start construction on a 70unit condominium in New Orleans when Katrina struck in August 2005 and flooded 80 percent of the city. The storm prompted Torres to switch gears from construction to cleanup. “I saw a need and an opportunity,” he said. Torres said he didn’t just want to clean up the city, he wanted to clean it up in style.
HAUGHTON (AP) — Bossier Parish Sheriff Larry Deen says a hit-andrun trucker knocked over a gasoline pump north of Haughton, spilling 150 gallons of the rig’s diesel fuel and 30 gallons of gasoline from the pump. A news release says nobody was hurt Wednesday, but the gasoline broke down asphalt on a nearby road.
TODAY ON
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TODAY
Weather 45 36
Lean On Me NAACP Week Appreciation Night Lockett Rm. 10, 5pm
Gamme Beta Phi Society Charity Event 911 Style & Fashion Model Selections. Feb. 22, 2010. 7-9pm Cotillion Ballroom Please bring a 4x6 photo For info contact: Meiosha Sutton msutton@lsu.edu Genesis Tutoring- FREE! Monday- Thursday 5pm-9pm Office of Multicultural Affairs, 355 Student Union 578-4339 DO YOU HAVE AN OCCURRENCE? Call Isaiah at the Student Media Office 578-6090, 9AM- 5PM or E-mail: officemanager@lsureveille.com
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Voter turnout figures for last Saturday’s New Orleans mayor’s race look low — but they were likely better than they look, given that the city’s population remains down since Hurricane Katrina hit in 2005. State figures show more than 273,000 people registered to vote in New Orleans. There were 88,938 votes cast for mayor, for a turnout of 33 percent.
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HIT THE LIGHTS
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SATURDAY 55 35 MONDAY 50 32
Mr. & Miss Imani Pageant February 18, 2010 LSU Student Union Ballroom, 7:00pm Sankofa Poets February 11, 2010 LSU Faculty Club, 6:00pm
Mayoral election shows turnout may be better than it looks in Orleans
Partly Cloudy
FRIDAY The National Society of Collegiate Scholars presents Integrity Week Display your integrity by signing the NSCS Integrity Banner all week in Free Speech Alley from 10:00am-2:00pm
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CORRECTIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS
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POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
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ThursdAy, fEbruAry 11, 2010
THE DAILY REVEILLE
PAGE 3
UREC
Boot camps provide students with exercise options Both classes offered with several sessions By Ashton Martin Contributing Writer
University Recreation is getting students into shape this semester with a series of intense exercises and drills. Two boot camps are being offered by University Recreation this semester Ñ Back to Basics Bootcamp and Xtreme Bootcamp. Bryn Duplechain, biological sciences sophomore, teaches one of the boot camps and said she draws from her experience of teaching daily Group X classes. Ò I am really excited to see all the different people that wanted to sign up for it,Ó Duplechain said. Ò I hope I can teach them traditional as well as nontraditional exercises now and show them how to continue on their own without me by being creative and safe.Ó Cameron Sharpe, chemical engineering freshman, said the classes are fun and informative. “It’s definitely not what I expected,Ó Sharpe said. Ò I was thinking that it would be like the ROTC physical training class, with military instructors.Ó
MELANIE SCOTT / The Daily Reveille
Alexandra Fitzgerald, business management junior, does an exercise Feb. 9 with the Xtreme Bootcamp class at the UREC Student Recreation Complex.
Patrick Carrier, biological sciences senior, also said the boot camp wasnÕ t what he expected and he stands out in a class of mostly women. Carrier said the instructor assessed their physical fitness level during the first day of class with push ups, sit-ups, a mile-long run and intense field drills. Ò It all helps build resistance,Ó Carrier said. Ò I would encourage anyone to do the boot camp because these exercises are good for anybody to try out.Ó Duplechain said she doesnÕ t have a specific outline for the classes, but the boot camps consist mostly
of outdoor and group activities versus normal gym routines. A day could consist of drills similar to an actual boot campÕ s crawling on the fields and an Indian run around the lake with intervals of resistance. To make class fun, Duplechain said she incorporates Ò fun daysÓ centered on stability, such as dodgeball and wheelbarrow races. Every class focuses on interval training that combines cardiovascular and muscular endurance workouts and has a warm up and cool down period. Amy Kokemor, University Recreation coordinator of healthy lifestyles, said the classes are a good
PHILANTHROPY
Campus Life joins ‘Tigers for Haiti’
New project to be a campus-wide effort By Sarah Eddington Staff Writer
Representatives from a spectrum of campus organizations met Wednesday for the Tigers for Haiti collaboration. Students from Campus Kitchens, Student Government, Health Initiatives Abroad, Alpha Phi Omega and Volunteer LSU were among those in attendance. Tigers for Haiti originally started as an organization spearheaded by Amy Potter, geography graduate student, and the rest of the Geography and Anthropology departments. Ò I care personally about this place,Ó Potter said. Ò ThatÕ s why IÕ m here.Ó Mallory Trochesset, associate director for Campus Life, said the department wanted to pull together all the campus efforts for Haiti and combine them under one umbrella. Ò Instead of having different organizations competing, we would all be working together,Ó Trochesset said. Ò The original Ô Tigers for HaitiÕ allowed us to use their name.Ó Potter said combining the UniversityÕ s efforts is the right thing to do. Ò WeÕ ll be able to join forces, regroup and contribute to a larger project,Ó Potter said. Mimie Laurant, general studies senior, will lead the organization.
Laurant said she has spent most of her life living abroad, and the opportunity to represent the University in contributing to global relief efforts means a lot to her. The organizationÕ s mission is three-fold: action, education and philanthropy. Ò The University is 100 percent behind this group,Ó said Mary Wallace, associate dean of students and director of Campus Life. Ò This is very exciting and something I think
is needed here on campus.Ó The group elected to become a formal organization and is currently having a logo approved. Trochesset said the goal is future campus fundraisers for Haiti will use the Ò Tigers for HaitiÓ logo, and proceeds will be added to a collective bank account. Contact Sarah Eddington at seddington@lsureveille.com
way for students to alleviate boredom, create confidence and offer a chance to have a support group and meet new people. Duplechain said her biggest hope as an instructor is for everyone to feel better about themselves and realize the real reason for exercise, even if they donÕ t drop one pound. Kokemor said the Back to Basics Bootcamp is adequate for any fitness level, whereas the Xtreme Bootcamp offers more of a challenge for participants who have an advanced physical activity level. Both boot camps improve muscular strength, cardiovascular fitness and strengthen form and technique for major and minor muscle groups, Kokemor said. The instructors are either personal trainers or students getting their personal trainer certification. Ò The boot camps are over three years old,Ó said Kokemor. Ò It has always been a popular trend with great
demand.Ó Kokemor said the Back to Basics Bootcamp is divided into four sessions — two for the first half of the semester and two for the second half. The Xtreme Bootcamp has only two sessions, one for February through March and one for March through April. Each morning and afternoon class is an hour long and is held outdoors if the weather permits. All students, UREC members and non-UREC members can register for boot camps, Kokemor said. Ò ItÕ s cheaper here to take the boot camp, rather than people going elsewhere,Ó Kokemor said. Each class has a maximum of 30 students. Classes began last week with good student turnout, Kokemor said. Contact Ashton Martin at amartin@lsureveille.com
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THE DAILY REVEILLE
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2010
HEALTH
Leeds study links excessive Internet use to depression The college-aged more easily addicted By Sarah Eddington Staff Writer
Whether on phones or computers, people access the Internet whenever they can and as often as they can. But recent research has shown a possible downside to “over-logging on.” Heavy Internet use is strongly linked to depression, according to a February article in the Psychopathology Journal. In the study, conducted at the University of Leeds, 1,319 people responded to an online questionnaire after being recruited through a link on different social networking Web sites. The survey asked the respondents ages 16 to 51 how often they use the Internet and for what purpose. The researchers found a small portion of the respondents exhibited a compulsive need for the
Internet, often replacing normal social functions with online ones, such as games, pornography, social networking sites and chat rooms. This small segment, totaling 1.2 percent, was classified as “Internet addicts” and had a higher incidence of moderate to severe depression than normal users. Drew Gouvier, psychology professor, said substituting online interactions for face-to-face ones is potentially harmful. “A person can become more isolated and less connected to the realities of social give and take,” Gouvier said. “They spend all this time on the Internet when they might otherwise be forming real human relationships.” Gouvier said online relationships lack the same effort required of normal interactions. “It’s like you’re trying to get the milk without the cow,” Gouvier said. “It takes work to keep real relationships.” Katie Hingle, biology sophomore, said the Internet makes it easier to keep in touch with friends. “Sometimes school gets so hectic I don’t have time to pick up
a phone and call someone,” Hingle said. “Posting on Facebook is less personal, but it’s easier.” Jennifer Curry, professor of counselor education, said younger people aren’t developing the types of people skills needed to be successful in life. “Things like eye contact and conversation skills are lost,” Curry said. “Eighty percent of communication is non-verbal. When you read e-mails, you aren’t reading expressions or body language, which are so important to success.” Curry researches the effects of Internet on development, along with problematic Internet use. Younger people in the study were more likely to be addicted than middle-aged Internet users, and men showed more addictive tendencies than women. The average age of the addicted group was 21 years. “While many of us use the Internet to pay bills, shop and send e-mails, there is a small subset of the population who find it hard to control how much time they spend online, to the point where it interferes with their daily activities,”
SG SENATE
Save LSU campaign speaks at meeting, urges students to action
TigerTV to attend N.Y. conference By Catherine Threlkeld Staff Writer
Tania Nyman, a leader in the Save LSU campaign, spoke to Student Government Senate on Wednesday about the importance of the campaign. “This is not just about LSU — it’s about our state,” Nyman said. “That’s why I’ve been motivated to work very hard.” She said the most important thing students can do is get their friends and family to call Louisiana representatives to get legislative action to support higher education. “Fee hikes will not save the caliber of your degrees if we suffer these budget cuts again,” Nyman said. Tiffany Compagno, 2010 Class Gift Committee chair, said the $30 fee for engraved senior bricks around the Parade Ground will go to the Chancellor’s Office for approval and bypass a student vote. Compagno said she and SG Director of Campus Development Jordan Milazzo met with Eric Monday, interim vice chancellor of Student Life and Academic Services, to discuss developments on the 2010 Class Gift Project. Compagno said Monday he seemed confident Chancellor Michael Martin would pass the $30 fee and said the project will be minor, but will make a huge difference. The Senate debated financing 15 new bikes for the UREC Student
Recreation Complex and sending four TigerTV staff members to a New York conference. The Senate passed legislation to allocate $5,000 for 15 additional bikes to the current UREC Student Recreation Complex’s bike fleet. “The reason I’m very passionate about it is because there’s been such high usage that the fleet has been dwindled down to three bikes,” said SG Vice President Martina Scheuermann. “The bikes they are trying to purchase are higher quality, so they don’t have to worry about them in the future.” The Senate passed $1,500 for TigerTV’s trip, rather than the requested $3,000. Drew Prestridge, College of Arts and Sciences senator, was strongly pushing for Senate to allocate the full $3,000, but he said he is glad they still received some. “I think TigerTV is a great service to this University, and I feel by them attending this conference they can truly improve quality of their station that serves the LSU-Baton Rouge community,” Prestridge said. SG President Stuart Watkins addressed the Senate about a meeting with other student government leaders from around the state. “It was very positive but at the same time very frustrating,” Watkins said. “The challenges we face are very different than the challenges community colleges face.” Watkins said all of the universities can advocate for constitutional reform, but LSU handles the budget cuts in different ways than community colleges. Brandon Briggs, SG assistant
director of athletics, announced tickets for LSU’s first away game of the season will cost $30 instead of the normal $50 to $60. The game is the Chick-fil-A kickoff versus North Carolina which will be held Sept. 4 in the Georgia Dome. ESPN will air the game in prime time. Greg Upton, SG chief economic adviser, said he and six new SG economic advisers have been working diligently to come up with a tangible proposal about what the University is going to do about budget cuts. “I’ve met with everyone there is to talk to at this University,” Upton said. “It’s a really good thing we’re doing.”
Contact Catherine Threlkeld at cthrelkeld@lsureveille.com
Catriona Morrison, the study’s lead author, said in the journal. People more dependent on the Internet spent proportionately more time on sex, gaming and community Web sites, the study showed. Alex Cohen, psychology professor, said too much Internet use carries some of the same addictive risks as gambling, but excessive involvement in any activity carries substantial risks, such as isolation, depression and occupational/social dysfunctions. “The key to Internet use, like gambling, is that it can be very reinforcing,” Cohen said. “Moreover, that reinforcement is often unpredictable, which makes it even more involving. You never know when someone is going to tweet, email or post, and the anticipation of it happening can be enticing.” Gouvier said there is a problem when people’s priorities become askew and beating a video game becomes more important than doing well in school. “That’s when there’s a clinical significance — when compulsive behavior gets in the way of success
in areas that are important,” Gouvier said. “The Internet makes it very easy to do.” Further research is needed to validate the relationship and determine causation, according to the study. “This study reinforces the public speculation that over-engaging in Web sites that serve to replace normal social function might be linked to psychological disorders like depression and addiction,” Morrison said. Cohen said there is nothing inherently pathological about Internet use, and in moderation it can serve as an important source of social support and networking tool. “It serves a critical function for society, and there is some evidence to suggest that relationships and social support, by and large, improve as a function of modest Internet use,” Cohen said. “Like anything, too much of a good thing can be bad.”
Contact Sarah Eddington at seddington@lsureveille.com
THE DAILY REVEILLE
Sports
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2010
PAGE 5
REBOUNDING
MEN’S BASKETBALL
Tigers lose Spencer in loss to Arkansas By Chris Branch Sports Writer
J.J. ALCANTARA / The Daily Reveille
LSU sophomore guard Destini Hughes, center, pulls down a rebound Feb. 7 during the Tigers’ 102-101 triple-overtime loss against Ole Miss in the PMAC.
Lady Tigers use game against Florida to try to snap losing streak By Rachel Whittaker Chief Sports Writer
The LSU women’s basketball team doesn’t have much room for error. “When you’re where we are, all games are big games,” coach Van Chancellor said of the Lady Tigers’ six final regular-season contests. LSU (15-7, 4-6) has not exactly been on a roll lately, losing six of its past eight
games — including two straight in overtime — and dropping four spots to No. 23 in the nation this week. The Lady Tigers will have a chance to ease their recent woes in a road contest against Florida (13-10, 6-4) tonight at 6 p.m. at the O’Connell Center. The team’s issues that need correcting start with grasping game plans in practice, Chancellor said. “We really struggled to take a plan of at-
tack both offensively and defensively from the practice floor to the game floor,” he said. “We just have to get in a close game and get the job done. We’ve lost three overtime games — if we win those, we’d be fine.” LSU has defeated Florida three straight times and in nine of the past 10 games, but Chancellor said facing Florida on the road will be a challenge. CHALLENGE, see page 14
As if things could get any worse. It wasn’t the blowout loss. Those have unfortunately become somewhat of a norm for LSU (9-15, 0-10) — who has lost seven of its 10 Southeastern Conference games by double-digits. But LSU’s 87-52 loss to Arkansas (13-11, 6-3) Wednesday in Fayetteville, Ark., didn’t help. Junior guard Bo Spencer had scored 25 or more points his last two outings. And Wednesday he ended up crumpled in a heap, hand latched onto his ankle in pain. Spencer reportedly sprained his ankle. He left the game after 18 minutes and didn’t return. Arkansas showed no pity. Sophomore guard Courtney Fortson led Arkansas with 17 points, fellow sophomore guard Rotnei Clarke scored 16 and junior forward Jemal Farmer contributed 11 points. “They were the much more dominant team tonight,” LSU coach Trent Johnson said in a postgame radio interview. “I didn’t like the way we competed from start to finish. We’re getting it from some people — some people we’re not.” LSU was led by senior forward Tasmin Mitchell, who recorded his sixth double-double in the last seven games after scoring 15 points and snatching 13 rebounds. Sophomore guard Zach Kinsley was the only other Tiger in double figures with 13 points. Kinsley shot 5-of-6 from the field and 3-of-4 from beyond the arc. LOSS, see page 14
BASEBALL
Outfield to rely on speed this season Collisions could be down side to quickness By Johanathan Brooks Sports Writer
Good outfielders are often seen diving to make spectacular catches or tracking down deep drives to the warning track. They are able to do these things because they are fast. Luckily for the 2010 LSU baseball outfield, they feel they possess great team speed. “Our outfield is extremely athletic,”
‘‘
sophomore outfielder “My biggest concern Mikie Mahtook said. ‘We’ve got good team with those three guys is “We don’t shy away from that they’re all so fast and making plays, and I think chemistry right now, and so aggressive that I worry the biggest adjustment collisions in the that’ll only get better as about we’ve had to do is share outfield,” he said. “It’s rethe ball. When the balls the year goes along.’ ally imperative that they are in the gaps, the center communicate with each Leon Landry fielder is the main priority other.” junior outfielder — just communicating ... Junior center fielder I think we’ve done a good Leon Landry and Mahjob with that.” took are the only players in the outfield But with great speed comes great who played on last season’s squad, but consequences, and LSU coach Paul Main- sophomore Johnny Dishon played during ieri said he could potentially see his out- the 2008 season. fielders’ speed and aggressiveness workOUTFIELD, see page 14 ing against them.
J.J. ALCANTARA / The Daily Reveille
LSU sophomore outfielder Mikie Mahtook fields a ball Feb. 2 as the team works on fly ball drills in Alex Box Stadium.
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THE DAILY REVEILLE
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2010
SOFTBALL
Pitcher Trahan out as Tigers open 2010 season Freshman pitcher to start against UNC By Jarred LeBlanc Sports Contributor
LSU’s softball season will begin this weekend at the Texas Invitational in Austin, Texas. But pitcher Cody Trahan may have to wait a little longer to start her senior campaign. Trahan has suffered back problems throughout her career and hasn’t been able to throw for about two weeks because of her back. Trahan was out for six weeks during the fall following a run-in with a LSU transit bus while she was on her scooter. The Tigers’ opening-weekend
competition will be tough — No. 19 North Carolina, No. 21 DePaul and Texas. Coach Yvette Girouard said she scheduled difficult teams early to prepare for a tough Southeastern Conference road schedule later in the season. “We could have opened up at home with six wins easily, but we’re challenging ourselves immediately off the bat,” Girouard said. “Our road schedule encompasses — during our spring break — Florida and Alabama back-to-back within three days.” Florida was picked by the SEC coaches to win the SEC East and ranked No. 3 in the USA Today/ NFCA Coaches poll and No. 5 in the ESPN.com/USA Softball Collegiate poll. Alabama is ranked No. 2 in both polls and has been picked by the SEC coaches to win the SEC
title.
But the highly anticipated arrival of freshman pitcher Rachele Fico will come Friday. Girouard named Fico the starting pitcher for the Tigers’ first game of the season against North Carolina. “We’re starting to see her really kick it into another gear,” Girouard said. “She has a knowledge in the circle that is beyond her maturation level. We’re really looking forward to her career here at LSU.” Two senior leaders will lead the Tigers’ outfield. Center fielder Kirsten Shortridge and right fielder Rachel Mitchell were named to the 2010 USA Softball Player of the Year Watch List. Shortridge was named to the 2009 Easton All-America Second Team and has been a catalyst for the Tigers batting in the lead-off spot.
Mitchell bats third for the team and led the team with 38 RBI last season. Sophomore outfielder Ashley Langoni will start the season in left field after a strong finish to the 2009 season, in which she was named to the NCAA Tempe Regional AllTournament Team. “She had a monster regional tournament for us at the end of the year in Tempe, [Ariz.],” said associate head coach James DeFeo. Assistant coach Kristen Hobbs talked about the infield and the importance of fundamentals and defense. “One of our main goals this year is to have the best fielding percentage in the SEC,” Hobbs said. The Tiger defense will be held together at the corners by junior third baseman Jessica Mouse and
sophomore first baseman Anissa Young. Mouse, team captain, has been one of the most solid defenders for the Tigers and posted a .991 fielding percentage in 2009. The middle infield will see many faces. Sophomore infielder Juliana Santos was named to the SEC All-Freshman team while she played shortstop for the Tigers. Hobbs said freshman infielder Allison Falcon “lit up the fall tournament” and is expect to see time at either shortstop or second base. Sophomore catcher Morgan Russell and freshman catcher Lauren Houston will share time behind the plate this season. Contact Jarred LeBlanc at jleblanc@lsureveille.com
FAMOUS AMOS
Southerners not able to care about Winter Olympics I don’t feel the rhythm. I don’t feel the rhyme. It may be bobsled time, but sorry, Jamaica — I am not coming along. The Winter Olympics start tomorrow, but does anyone in America care? The winter games seem so distant. Partly because they always transpire some place cold — which is never the southern United States – but mainly because there isn’t any real connection between the winter games and the southern United States. Here is a list of grievances toward the games, which explain why they just do not connect well with Southerners: 1. The sports in the winter games are mostly sports you can’t just get up and play. In the summer games, basketball, soccer and track and field are all sports in which kids can simply find a ball, walk outside, find an open space and play. The winter sports, which include various skiing and snowboarding events, all require a very important aspect that is very hard to come by in the South — snow. It almost never snows this far south, and there is never enough snow to snowboard or ski even when it does. Some of the other sports such as curling, hockey and figure skating are very hard to get involved with at a young enough age down here to breed any Olympic-caliber talent. Sure, there are ice rinks in the South, but I challenge anyone who reads this to walk into one and see if anyone has the equipment or even the
desire to join you for a pickup game of curling or hockey. As far as the bobsledding events, where can I purchase a bobsled in the South? More importantly, where would I be able to use said bobsled? It takes a tremendous amount of effort for someone in an American state where is doesn’t snow enough for these sports to get involved in them, and that effort is usually put towards baseball Amos Morale or football. 2. Sticking Sports Columnist with bobsledding, the only really moving memory I have of the Winter Olympics is when the Jamaican bobsled team carried their sled across the finish line — which didn’t really happen. I can thank “Cool Runnings” for that. All I can remember from the last Winter Olympics is American skier Bode Miller laying a gigantic egg in
all of his events and embarrassing the country by saying he skied hung over and drunk. This is a polar opposite of the last Summer Olympics. I got to witness some of the most dominant performances in Olympic history last summer. I witnessed Usain Bolt shatter a world record and not even run as fast as he could. I saw Michael Phelps smoke the competion for a record eight gold medals. I watched a swimmer named Cullen Jones win a gold medal after almost drowning as a child. 3. Where is the star power? The most hyped American athlete these games is Lindsey Vonn. Vonn is a talented skier, but part of her notoriety is the fact she appears half-naked in this year’s Sports Illustrated swimsuit edition. She may not even compete in all of her events. She suffered an injury while training in Austria and revealed Wednesday the injury had not healed like she had hoped.
This would seriously suck the hype right out of the American team as she was a major gold medal hope. Another hyped-up athlete is the snowboarder Shaun White, but I feel like I was introduced to him as a skateboarder who also snowboards — not a snowboarder who also skateboards. Most of his fame comes from the X-Games anyway and the mounds of products he endorses. And then there’s Bode. Miller is more famous for his bad-boy image than his talent, which has yet to materialize in Olympic gold.
Most of the NHL’s best and notable hockey players are not American. Sidney Crosby will play for his native Canada, and Alexander Ovechkin will play for his native Russia. These games are made even less exciting by the news coming out of Vancouver, British Columbia, that there is a shortage of snow. Snow is the main component for the winter games. If it isn’t showing support for the games, why should I? Contact Amos Morale at amorale@lsureveille.com
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2010
THE DAILY REVEILLE
PAGE 7
SOFTBALL
EMILY SLACK / The Daily Reveille
Freshman outfielder Lindsay Price practices Feb. 8 for the Tigers’ opening game Feb. 12.
Team heads to Texas invitational weekend despite players’ injuries Girouard: Pitching is solid this season
By Jarred LeBlanc Sports Contributor
A solid pitching staff in softball is just as important as an accurate quarterback in football. The No. 18 LSU softball team will be quarterbacked through the 2010 season by a group of pitchers who have been among the best in the Southeastern Conference. In 2009, the Tiger crew gave up the third-fewest earned runs in the SEC — just 126 — and had the fourth-lowest team ERA in the conference at 2.48 runs per game. The Tigers accomplished this despite having a pitching staff plagued with injuries all season long, including a season-ending injury to lone senior Dani Hofer. This season LSU has four returning pitchers and has added a freshman pitcher who will see her share of batters this season. “We’re chomping at the bit to see what everyone can do in the circle,” said LSU coach Yvette Girouard. “We kind of have riches in the circle this year.” The Tigers will travel to Austin, Texas, for the Texas Invitational this
weekend and will face No. 19 North Carolina, No. 21 DePaul and Texas during the three-day tournament. Some of LSU’s pitchers said they have been waiting for this tournament for a long time, and they are looking forward to kicking off the 2010 season in Texas. “I feel like I’ve been waiting for it to be game week since we’ve gotten here,” said freshman pitcher Rachele Fico. “Now that it’s finally here, we’re really going to have to bear down now and continue working hard.” Senior pitcher Cody Trahan led the Tigers in 2009 with a 12-7 record and 141 strikeouts. “Cody is just a great leader out there,” said sophomore pitcher Brittany Mack. But Trahan has suffered back injuries throughout the fall and will be questionable heading into the season. Girouard said the injuries will keep Trahan out of at least the first weekend of play. “Her back kind of went out on her again,” Girouard said. “So she hasn’t thrown hardly any in the last two weeks ... but at some point hopefully we can get her back.” Mack is the other strong pitcher returning to the circle. Mack was ferocious in her freshman campaign and allowed only 73 hits on the season, second fewest in the SEC.
Junior pitcher Casey Faile, who also plays first base, led the team with two saves last season. Faile had an ERA of 1.93 in 50.2 innings pitched. Senior center fielder Kirsten Shortridge also saw action in the circle last season. The All-American showed pin-point accuracy and only walked 17 batters in 52.1 innings pitched in 2009. “Shortridge has thrown more at this point than she did last year,” Girouard said. “She can control any game when she’s on.” As a team, the Tigers had the second fewest wild pitches in the SEC with 33 and were tied for the second fewest home runs allowed in the SEC with just 24. The newest addition to the LSU circle is Fico. Fico finished high school with a 105-3 record and pitched 26 perfect games, which is a national high school record. Fico’s credentials are so impressive Girouard gave her the start in her first collegiate game Friday against the Tar Heels. “I can’t wait to see what Fico is going to do,” Girouard said. “She is going to have an unbelievable future with this program.”
Contact Jarred LeBlanc at jleblanc@lsureveille.com
NFL
Street to be named after Saints player, former Tiger Opelousas honors Devery Henderson By The Associated Press OPELOUSAS, La. (AP) — Following a decisive Super Bowl victory on Sunday, Saints fever continues to grip Opelousas. The city council voted Tuesday to rename Jefferson Street for
Opelousas native and Saints’ wide receiver Devery Henderson. The council had only two reservations: What do the residents on the street have to say about the idea and whether it should be Henderson street, avenue, boulevard or drive. Alderman Julius Alsandor said he has personally contacted almost everyone who lives along the 17 block street. Alsandor told The Daily
World that all the individuals he spoke with support the change. The official name will now become Devery Henderson Jr. Drive, and Mayor Donald Cravins Sr. said the change will become effective almost immediately.
Contact The Daily Reveille’s sports staff at sports@lsureveille.com
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RAVE MOTION PICTURES February 12th - February 13th WWW.RAVEMOTIONPICTURES.COM Baton Rouge 16 Mall of Louisiana 15 I-12@ O’Neal 225-769-5176 I-10@ Mall of LA Exit 225-769-5176 **AVATAR 3D PG13 11:35, 2:55, 4:05, 6:55, 8:10, 20:35 **THE BLIND SIDE PG13 3:00, 9:55 **THE BOOK OF ELI R 12:10, 4:10, 7:25, 10:20 **DEAR JOHN PG13 11:05, 1:55, 4:40, 7:20, 8:20, 10:05, 11:05 **EDGE OF DARKNESS R 11:50, 2:30, 5:15, 7:55, 10:35 **FROM PARIS WITH LOVE R 11:10, 1:45, 4:20, 7:45, 10:50 **LEGION R 2:25, 4:55, 7:50, 10:40 **THE LOVELY BONES PG13 11:00AM **PERCY JACSKON & THE OLYMPIANS: LIGHTNING THIEF PG 11:45, 12:30, 2:45, 3:15, 5:30, 7:00, 10:00 ** SHERLOCK HOLMES PG13 11:40 AM ONLY **TOOTH FAIRY PG 11:25, 1:50, 4:25, 7:10, 9:50 **VALENTINE’S DAY PG13 11:00, 1:15, 2:00, 4:15, 5:00, 7:15, 8:00, 10:15,11:00 **WHEN IN ROME PG13 11:20, 2:05, 4:30, 7:05, 10:10 **THE WOLFMAN R 11:15, 12:00, 1:30, 2:15, 4:00, 4:45, 6:45, 7:30, 8:15, 10:30, 11:15
9-10:30 AM 12-1:30 PM 3:00-3:30 PM 7:00-8:30 PM 10:00-10:30PM 11:00-12:30PM
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**ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS PG 11:10, 1:40 **AVATAR 3D PG13 11:25, 3:05, 4:15, 8:10, 10:20 **THE BLIND SIDE PG13 1:55, 8:05 **THE BOOK OF ELI R 11:45, 3:00, 6:50, 10:05 **CRAZY HEART R 12:10, 4:30, 7:20, 10:35 **EDGE OF DARKNESS R 11:40, 2:45, 6:55, 10:00 **DEAR JOHN PG13 4:55, 7:55, 10:55 **FROM PARIS WITH LOVE R 11:35, 2:10, 4:50, 7:35, 10:25 **LEGION R 11:20, 5:10, 11:10 **PERCY JACKSON &THE OLYMPIANS: THE LIGHTNING THIEF PG 11:00, 12:05, 2:00, 4:05, 5:00, 7:1, 8:00, 11:00 **THE TOOTH FAIRY PG 12:15, 4:20, 7:05 **VALENTINE’S DAY PG13 11:30, 1:45, 4:00, 4:45, 7:00, 7:45, 9:45, 10:15, 10:45 **WHEN IN ROME PG13 11:55, 2:30, 5:05, 7:50, 10:40 **THE WOLFMAN R 11:15, 12:00, 2:15, 5:15, 7:30, 8:15, 10:30, 11:15
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THE DAILY REVEILLE
ThursdAy, fEbruAry 11, 2010
NBA
Collison’s 13-point fourth leads Hornets past Celtics
New Orleans 28-25 at All-Star Break By Brett Martel The Associated Press
NEW ORLEANS Ñ Darren Collison scored 13 of his 25 points in the fourth quarter, helping the New Orleans Hornets hold on for a 93-85 victory over the Boston Celtics on Wednesday night. Peja Stojakovic scored 20 for New Orleans and Morris Peterson had 16 points and 10 rebounds for his first double-double in more than two seasons. David West added 15 points to help the Hornets go into the All-Star break with two wins in their last three games. Paul Pierce scored 15 points for the Celtics, who played without starting guard Ray Allen (back spasms) in their second straight loss. Marquis Daniels added 14 points for Boston, which missed 11 free throws and was unable to protect a 12-point halftime lead. Trailing for much of the first half, New Orleans seized the momentum in the third quarter by hitting six 3-pointers, including three by Stojakovic and two by Peterson. The Hornets surged into the lead with an 11-0 run on
StojakovicÕ s fourth 3 of the game, PetersonÕ s three-point play on a tough transition layup, CollisonÕ s 3 and StojakovicÕ s jumper, which made it 72-65. The Celtics shot 5 of 19 from the field and only 2 of 9 from the foul line during the quarter. Daniels briefly got Boston’s offense rolling again, scoring three baskets during an 8-2 run that pulled the Celtics to 76-75 early in the fourth quarter. However, New Orleans didnÕ t wilt as it did two nights earlier in Orlando, when the Magic overcame a 17-point deficit. Collison hit a double-pump runner and followed it with a driving floater through a crowd as he was fouled. He added a jumper and then split Eddie House and Glen Davis on the dribble for another layup to make it 85-78. The game was sloppy and play often seemed frantic and disjointed. The teams combined for 47 turnovers, with the Hornets committing 24, including a franchise-high 10 by Collison. The HornetsÕ rookie point guard missed a dubious tripledouble by one assist. Pierce committed eight turnovers and scored only two points in the second half. Kevin Garnett had seven points and seven rebounds in 26:29 and did not score in the second half, missing an
BILL HABER / The Associated Press
New Orleans Hornets guard Darren Collison (2) and Boston Celtics guard Rajon Rondo (9) run for a loose ball in the first half of the Hornets’ 93-85 win Wednesday in New Orleans.
open but rushed fastbreak layup in the final minute when Boston trailed by six. Peterson was starting for a fourth straight game because of Marcus ThorntonÕ s bruised lower back. Thornton returned as a reserve against Boston for 9 minutes after missing the previous three games, but scored only two points in 9 minutes. Peterson, meanwhile, had one of his best games since signing with the Hornets for the 2007-08 season. His doubledouble was his first since April
17, 2007, (14 points, 13 rebounds) when he was playing for Toronto. New Orleans led 27-25 when Collison hit a tough right-handed hook shot running diagonally away from the hoop at the end of the first quarter. Boston quickly surged into the lead in the second period while the Hornets struggled to hit shots. Songaila was the only Hornets player to make a field goal in the period. He went 5 of 7 for 10 points in the period, but the rest of the Hornets were a combined 0 for
11.
Boston, meanwhile, shot 61 percent (11 of 18) with former LSU star Davis scoring all of his nine points in the period. In the final half-minute before halftime, Garnett turned a tough baseline jumper as he was fouled into a three-point play, giving Boston a 55-43 lead.
Contact The Daily Reveille’s sports staff at sports@lsureveille.com
THE DAILY REVEILLE
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2010
Entertainment
ToughLove
Valentine’s Day faces unique local economic trends Love is in the air, but gift stores and flower shops won’t be rejoicing as much as in past years. Sales for Valentine’s Day on Sunday are expected to rise 3.3 percent overall this year, but sales for flowers, jewelry and candy will likely be less popular, according to IBIS World, a market research organization. Valentine’s Day — normally the secondbiggest holiday season after Christmas for greeting card companies, according to the Greeting Card Association — is seeing tough economic trends this year. Couples appear to be losing their sweet tooth and leaving flower vases
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Mardi Gras and the recent blackand-gold Super Bowl are playing major roles in couples’ responses to Valentine’s Day, according to business owners. Jennifer Feduccia, buyer for Baton Rouge’s Holiday Hallmark stores, said fewer customers are paying attention to Valentine’s Day this year. “Valentine’s Day sales are down when Mardi Gras is close to Valentine’s Day,” Feduccia said. “No one is talking about Valentine’s Day this year. Everyone is talking about Mardi Gras or the Saints and the Super Bowl.” But Feduccia noted a recent rise in SALES, see page 12
‘No one is talking about Valentine’s Day this year. Everyone is talking about Mardi Gras or the Saints and the Super Bowl.’ Jennifer Feduccia
buyer, Baton Rouge’s Holiday Hallmark stores
‘My boyfr ien came an d d surprised me ... He told me I was gett i somethin ng from Fed g E ... then h x walked in e .’
‘I got a head r scratche once.’ aggs Nick Sk ior n ju h nglis E
MUSIC
Bo Diddley protégé revises the blues
By Matthew Jacobs Entertainment Writer
empty this season, instead opting for nice dinners and romantic getaways. Dining out totals are expected to rise 8.2 percent and romantic getaways to see a 2.3 percent boost, whereas flower sales may decrease as much as 4.9 percent and candy by 1.3 percent. “We’re full all weekend long,” said Michael Plauche, manager of Juban’s Restaurant on Perkins Road. “We’ve had absolutely no trouble filling up the restaurant.” Local gift stores seem to be in agreement with the national trends, but gift store owners are crediting more than consumers’ tight pocketbooks as the source.
PAGE 9
Marg
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t Ma anthr nns opo politic logy and al sc ience soph omor e
‘I h brea ad k in be fast perso d, a na poem lized ate l ... u at a nch resta nice u and g rant choc ot o in a r late in box.’ g
By Chris Abshire Entertainment Writer
Hamilton Loomis doesn’t look like a man who sings the blues, but the young guitarist doesn’t really claim to. After beginning his career confined to a more traditional blues sound on a blues label, Loomis branched out following the advice of rock ‘n’ roll legend and mentor Bo Diddley. “Bo really encouraged me to explore my own original sound,” Loomis said. “He used to tell me, ‘Innovate — don’t imitate.’” Saturday’s show at Phil Brady’s felt like a culmination of Loomis’ expanded sound, and he delivered a raw and compelling show full of the energy lacking in a normal blues show. As Loomis and his backing band strutted across the bar at Phil Brady’s throughout the night, the intensity he brings to his performance was obvious. “I’ve got such a great passion for connecting with the audiences,” Loomis said. “I bring a lot of rhythm and funk to my shows because that is the stuff that everybody, young and old, can appreciate.” The show was an amalgam of every style of music from the last 50 years. Blues transitioned seamlessly to funk. Driving guitar riffs led to 10-minute bass solos. Spoken-word vocals followed harmonicas and horn blasts. Loomis engaged in a contest with his sax player at one point, climbing onto bar tables and working the crowd. This genre-shifting is anything but the unfocused interests of an artist with no direction. “I don’t really believe in the idea of genres anymore,” Loomis said. “Since I do not feel like my music fits neatly into a genre, why not touch on GENRES, see page 10
TELEVISION
DJ Pauly D heads sold-out bash By Chris Abshire Entertainment Writer
“Jersey Shore” star “DJ Pauly D” Delvecchio had hundreds of LSU students fist pumping like champs Wednesday night at Bogie’s Bar. Fans waited for hours outside Bogie’s on East Boyd just to get inside for the set. “I was really nervous all day because I did not get a pre-sale ticket
when they announced it, and I was going to be really upset if I did not get to see Pauly D,” said Sara Landry, elementary education graduate student. “So I made sure I was here a couple hours early for this, because there was no way I was missing this show.” Other fans simply wanted to meet Pauly and touch his famous “Blowout” hairstyle, which he spends 25 minutes on every day.
“I will grab his hair, and then I will freak out because I just love Pauly D’s hair so much,” said Alyssa Perez, communications studies senior. Inside the bar, dozens of guys could have passed for Pauly D from the back, as they rocked sported gelled hairstyles, muscle shirts and large, white sunglasses. GUIDO, see page 12
BRIANNA PACIORKA / The Daily Reveille
Chris “The Robbery” LeBouef, mass communication junior, and Sydney “The Blackout” Banks, interdisciplinary studies junior, make an entrance at Bogie’s on Wednesday.
PAGE 10
THE DAILY REVEILLE
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2010
BAND SPOTLIGHT
Local sound Norcio combines indie, groove rock
[sounded] more pissed off,” said bassist Sam Claitor, a graphic design freshman at the University. “I would say it’s definitely a more mature sound. The lyrics and the music are better composed.”
The band’s dynamic sound, which Claitor said segues between indie and groove rock, can be attributed to its multi-dimensional songwriting process. “Usually, writing with Joe
[Poliquin] is a very emotional experience on my part,” said vocalist and rhythm guitarist Samantha D’Shay, Poliquin’s fiancée. “We really concentrate on making the lyrics very personal. We can explain where every lyric we write comes from.” The band members said having an engaged couple adds to their dynamic rather than presenting any problems. “It’s cool seeing how well they work together,” said keyboardist Jared Saia. “They get in fights every now and then, but it’s always about music — the same thing any bandmate would fight about.” Poliquin said writing songs with his fiancee is good for the band and his relationship. “Most people think it’d be horrible or devastating,” Poliquin said. “But if [your partner] understands you enough and puts in as much emotion as you, it’s better for your relationship and for the band.” The band’s current lineup is rounded out by drummer Brady
of the concert was the way Loomis smoothly integrated roots music — jazz, blues and folk — into the up tempo, rock sound of his band, with the audience often oblivious to the connection. “Roots music is, for lack of a better word, my roots,” Loomis said. “But I am trying to expand the audience and style for sounds like jazz
and blues, so I bring them a more modern edge in my music.” Loomis credited Diddley for instilling a sense of ambition and originality in him. “Bo was all about playing something different than people had heard, and he was really a percussionist at heart even though he played guitar,” Loomis said. “So he always
encouraged me to explore different sounds in my music while still respecting what I already know.” The rhythm and funk Loomis promised hit its thrilling peak as the show drew to a close. A nearly 10-minute drum solo, accompanied by periodic bass and guitar picks, overwhelmed the senses and created a memorable ending to a show which
By Ben Bourgeois Entertainment Writer
Local bands can’t often say they’ve shared the stage with the likes of Stone Temple Pilots, Nine Inch Nails and the Mars Volta. But Norcio, a Baton Rouge fixture since 2006, has bragging rights as they were the opening act at the 2008 Voodoo Music Festival in New Orleans. “It was awesome having our names on the T-shirts next to [bands like] Stone Temple Pilots,” said the band’s lead singer and guitarist Joseph Henry Poliquin V. “A few of the bands didn’t show up, so we were the first band to take the stage.” But the five-piece band fans could expect to hear these days is a far cry from the one that rocked the NooMoon stage in City Park a year and a half ago. After numerous lineup changes, Norcio is constantly developing a newer, more mature sound. “Old Norcio probably
GENRES, from page 9
all the sounds that I love to play?” Part of the thrill of Loomis’ live show is its randomness and uncertainty. He plays a tender, soft song about a legendary love one minute, and the entire bar is dancing or swaying to the music the next. The most interesting aspect
photo courtesy of BLAZE BARSAMIAN
Norcio’s upcoming album “Home Sweet Home” will be released Feb. 20.
Gautreaux, a Gonzales resident. Although Norcio has gone though significant changes in its sound and lineup, Poliquin says he finds inspiration to move forward from the only person who believed in his ability to pursue music. “My grandmother’s maiden name was Norcio,” Poliquin said. “When she passed away, they had these cards they gave out that had her full name on it, and it just stood out to me. She was the only person in my family who wanted me to keep playing music.” The band’s first full-length album, “Home Sweet Home,” is set for a Feb. 20 release and will feature a compilation of the band’s older and more recent material. Norcio is playing CD release shows Feb. 20 at the Spanish Moon on Highland Road and Feb. 26 at The Bar in New Orleans.
constantly kept the audience off balance and waiting for the next sound. “Hey, you know, my music speaks for itself,” Loomis said.
Contact Ben Bourgeois at bbourgeois@lsureveille.com
Contact Chris Abshire at cabshire@lsureveille.com
ThursdAy, fEbruAry 11, 2010
THE DAILY REVEILLE
PAGE 11
PAGE 12
THE DAILY REVEILLE
SALES, from page 9
sales of more pragmatic gifts. “With the economy downward for the past two years, people are starting to buy everyday gifts, rather than seasonal gifts,” Feduccia said. “Frames, candles, something you can use all year long. More practical gifts.” Holiday Hallmark offers Valentine displays featuring traditional romantic sentiments like cards, stuffed bears and boxes of chocolate. Robert Heroman, co-owner and manager of local flower store chain Billy Heroman’s, agreed people celebrating Valentine’s Day will face unique economic trends this year because of Mardi Gras. “Other retail florists around the country wouldn’t experience the difference,” Heroman said. “But we expect to take a little bit of a hit because of people going to New Orleans.” Heroman credited Valentine’s Day’s Sunday date as another factor in flower sales. “The trend in the industry is to expect another 10 percent offset when it falls on a Sunday,” Heroman said. “Couples have many other options to celebrate Valentine’s Day, being that it’s during a weekend.” Store owners can still depend on an influx of holiday gift-buying associated with Valentine’s Day despite a fluctuating economy and drops in sales. Feduccia said she expects a spike in sales on the day before Valentine’s Day. “Last year, we saw 1,300 customers in our stores,” Feduccia said. “On an average day, we expect about 200.” Gift stores and restaurants are responding to consumers’ needs because the economic times are pressing. “We are just trying to have a lot of great gifts at more affordable prices,” said Jessica Kempainen,
GUIDO, from page 9
Two University students, Sydney “The Blackout” Banks and Chris “The Robbery” LeBouef, proclaimed themselves die-hard “Jersey Shore” fans and dressed the part. Banks, an interdisciplinary studies junior, wore a ripped black T-shirt with her nickname painted on in gold glitter, and her hair was in the signature “poof” style of Snooki, her favorite “guidette” from the hit MTV show. “We sort of live the GTL [gym, tanning and laundry] lifestyle that [Mike] ‘The Situation’ [Sorrentino] promotes on the show,” Banks said. Snooki was easily the most popular female character among people at the concert. “My favorite character is Snooki because she’s so trashy, and I’m really hoping she’ll show up,” Perez said. LeBouef, mass communication junior, was sporting a skin-tight black T-shirt and spiked hair, paid homage to Mike “The Situation” with his nickname, “The Robbery.” “Basically, a robbery involves hitting on a girl that another guy is working on and basically stealing his game from him,” LeBouef said. The DJ was greeted with everything from screams by female fans to nods of approval from tanned, spiked-hair bros upon his arrival at the show before he was whisked
BRIANNA PACIORKA / The Daily Reveille
A stuffed teddy bear waits to be bought for Valentine’s Day at the Holiday Hallmark store on Airline Highway. Sales are expected to drop this year for Valentine’s Day.
manager of Tattle Tales boutique on Highland Road. “We don’t want anyone to feel like they can’t get their special someone something because of the prices.” Plauche said he doesn’t expect the tough economy to affect Juban’s Valentine’s Day business. “People may have to cut back some on casual dining for the regular times of the year,” Plauche said. “But in spite of that, people are more willing to go out and enjoy themselves on special days like this.” And the romantic holiday is not lost on University students. Students may be cutting back on their Valentine’s Day budgets, but traditional sentimental gifts have not been completely phased out. “Last year I had a guy surprise me,” said Harriet Blackburn, political science senior. “He didn’t tell me he was going to be my Valentine, then he showed up with flowers behind his back.” And the University is continuing to do its part to help students
celebrate the romantic holiday. One campus Valentine tradition will endure, as students meet at Memorial Tower on Saturday to kiss their sweethearts as the clock strikes midnight. Feb. 14 serves as the only day of the year the Clock Tower rings after 10 p.m., according to The Baton Rougean Web site. And the LSU Museum of Art in the Shaw Center is hosting a Valentine’s Day event entitled, “Museum Tour, Dinner and Champagne! Oh My!” from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. “[Guests will] receive a twofor-one admission to the museum, 20 percent off one item, lunch or dinner at Capital City Grill for 10 percent off and a complimentary glass of champagne,” said Renee Payton, Museum of Art marketing director.
away from the crowd of adoring fans into the back room of the bar. As for people’s favorite Pauly D moment from “Jersey Shore,” the vote was unanimous: “the grenade situation,” a recurring strategy in which one cast member will entertain a woman, so another can try to “hook up” with her more attractive
friend. “When he did not want to back Mike up with the grenade situation — that was epic,” Perez said.
Contact Matthew Jacobs at mjacobs@lsureveille.com
Contact Chris Abshire at cabshire@lsureveille.com
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2010
THE DAILY REVEILLE
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2010
Reveille
PAGE 13
Ranks
MUSIC MOVIES BOOKS TELEVISION
Yeasayer
Massive Attack
Odd Blood
Heligoland Virgin Records
Secretly Canadian
Seven years after the disappointing “100th Window,” Massive Attack has finally released another studio album. It doesn’t quite measure up to 1998’s “Mezzanine,” but the new album marks the band’s return to the slow, soulful trip-hop that brought it widespread acclaim. The British experimental duo’s latest record features collaborations with six renowned guest artists on vocals, as well as others on bass, keys and synth bass. While “Heligoland” is slow-paced and lacking in range, tracks like “Girl I Love You” and “Paradise Circus” still have the beautifully haunting sound for which the band is known.
Yeasayer’s second album is a jaunty joyride replete with just the right balance of beautiful sincerity and freaky, psychadelic pop. The Brooklyn trio mines the best sounds of ’80s synth rhythms, new-wave urgency, and psychedelic ’60s pop, combining them all to create vibrant and thrilling arrangements. Yeasayer made indie world music before Vampire Weekend made it cool. In modifying the influences of its world sound from a more eclectic sound to one that carries a heavier pop punch and more danceable style, the band has created a genuinely quirky and fantastic sophomore record. log on to read the full review at lsureveille.com
E. CLAUSEN
C. ABSHIRE
[B]
[A-]
A Single Man
From Paris With Love
Oscar nominee Colin Firth completely transforms himself in his portrayal of an emotionally wrought gay man in 1962 struggling with the inability to cope with the death of his partner. Firth breathes complexity and depth into this lavishly staged movie directed by Tom Ford. The rich drama is enhanced by a hauntingly beautiful score, bold performances from Firth and Julianne Moore and stylish cinematography that appeals to its ‘60s setting. The film lags slightly toward its middle, but it concludes itself in a stirringly dramatic way, emphasizing its sleek stylishness and rich emotion.
If you loved 2008’s “Taken” but wish it didn’t have a convincing lead character or any appeal outside violent action scenes, then “From Paris With Love” is the film for you. Director Pierre Morel’s first crack at a major film since “Taken” attempts to recycle the same fastpaced formula but falls completely flat. Where Liam Neeson pointedly conveyed the emotional attachment of “Taken’s” shootouts and car chases, “From Paris With Love” is hardly anything more than one self-indulgent action scene after another. The plot moves quickly and erratically and manages to lose viewers’ interest just as fast.
M. JACOBS
B. BOURGEOIS
Lions Gate Entertainment
The Weinstein Company
[B+]
[D]
Editor’s Pick AN EDUCATION Sony Pictures Classic
S. LAWSON
The word “education” flies around a lot in this film, but no one seems to know what it means. Sixteenyear-old Jenny (Carey Mulligan) trades her prep school education to traipse in the young social high life and jazz clubs of 1961 London after she meets a much older man. The top student drops out of her all-girls school and comes close to crossing the dangerous line of young corruption with the much-older David (Peter Sarsgaard) and his sex, money and shady business dealings. Some of the themes are cliché and Victorian, and the plot is entirely predictable — but it’s still fun watch. log on to read the full review at lsureveille.com
Sarah “An E Sony
The w to kno her pr jazz c studen the da (Peter of the predic with s scener dealin in 200 strong under his my full of edge o older m
PAGE 14
THE DAILY REVEILLE
LOSS, from page 5
Arkansas established itself early. The Razorbacks sprinted out to a 10-0 lead on three straight 3-pointers, two from Fortson and one from Clarke. But the Tigers didn’t go away. LSU scrapped its way back to within three at 12-9, but never got closer. Arkansas then proceeded to score 13 straight points to increase the lead to 16. The lead ballooned to 22 points by halftime, and it only got worse. Arkansas’ biggest lead was 36 points with 3:36 left in the game. The Tigers were obliterated inside for the second straight game. No. 3 Kentucky outrebounded the Tigers 51-24 in an 81-55 loss Saturday. Arkansas outpaced the Tigers 38-29 Wednesday. “They pounded us on the glass from start to finish,” Johnson said. “This is two games now that we’ve really been pounded on the glass. Whether it’s fatigue or lack of strength, it’s all understandable, but you still have to find a way to fight through.” The only bright spot for LSU might have been a milestone. Mitchell became LSU’s all-time leader in minutes played 22 minutes into the game, eclipsing the previ-
batted for high averages and were responsible for many runs LSU Sophomore left fielder Trey scored. Mahtook had a .316 batting Watkins will start this season after spending last season with LSU- average with 38 RBIs, seven home runs, a .377 on-base percentage and Eunice. Landry said Watkins and other nine stolen bases. Landry had a .300 batting avernewcomers to the team had a slightly tough time adjusting, but he ex- age, chipped in with 12 home runs, pects them to come along fine as the 41 RBIs, a .379 on-base percentage and also had nine season progresses. stolen bases. Ò It was a little Watkins and rough at first for Dishon were no them, but that’s slouches at the natural when plate either. you’re stepping Watkins batinto a program ted .418 with six like this,” Landry home runs, 71 said. “It’s going to Mikie Mahtook RBIs and stole a take some time to sophomore outfielder school record 58 adjust, but they’re bases at LSU-E in coming along really good and buying into the things the 2009 season. Dishon sat out with a redshirt that we do around here, so they’re last season, but he made 41 apstarting to fit into their roles.” Mahtook said he hasn’t seen pearances and batted .240 with two a drop off in the level of cohesion home runs and 12 RBIs in his freshamong his teammates than what man season. he saw from LSU’s 2009 national With time still to go before championship team. the season starts, Landry said he is “I feel like it’s a continuation happy with the outfield and the rest of last year,” he said. “We have put of the team’s progress. up one of the fastest outfields in the “We’re coming together as a country again, and we’re very ath- team,” Landry said. “We’ve got letic and very aggressive, and we good team chemistry right now, and work well together. I feel like we that’ll only get better as the year goes along, so I’m looking forward haven’t missed a beat at all.” Defensive speed isn’t the only to seeing how it goes.” asset the Tiger outfield will take into the season, as they wield some Contact Johanathan Brooks at pretty impressive batting statistics. jbrooks@lsureveille.com Both Mahtook and Landry
OUTFIELD, from page 5
BETH HALL / The Associated Press
Left to right, LSU’s Aaron Dotson, Dennis Harris, Garrett Green and Chris Bass watch the final minutes of the Tigers’ 87-52 loss to Arkansas in Fayetteville, Ark.
ous mark held by former Tiger Garrett Temple. Temple played a total of 4,432 minutes in his career at LSU. Mitchell, who played 35 minutes, has now played 4,446 minutes in his career. “That speaks volumes to the type of player he is and his durability,” Johnson said. LSU now faces No. 24 Vanderbilt on Saturday in Nashville. The Commodores are coming off an impressive 90-71 victory against No. 12 Tennessee on Tuesday. “We’ll get on the plane and come home and have a light workout tomorrow,” Johnson said.
“We’re beat up physically and mentally like a lot of teams are, and when you’re losing, you have to try and find a way to get through.” Johnson said he will head from Fayetteville and hit the recruiting trail to try and put some final touches on his No. 11 2010 class. “[Assistant] coach [Keith] Richard will probably run practice,” Johnson said. “The rest of us [coaches] are trying to finalize spring recruiting.” Contact Chris Branch at cbranch@lsureveille.com
CHALLENGE, from page 5
“Florida has done a great job of running their offense and utilizing their talent,” he said. “They are a reflection of their coach — scrappy and tough. Tennessee beat them on a last-second shot, and they beat Ole Miss in Oxford — a team that beat us twice.” Florida is also coming off an overtime game Sunday, an 80-78 win at home against Mississippi State that took two extra periods. Women’s basketball analyst Chantelle Anderson said being on the court for more than two halves brings challenges besides maintaining physical strength. “Being in one of those games makes you feel more alive than ever,” Anderson said. “Three overtimes sounds tiring, but as athletes, we’re taught to ignore the feelings of our bodies and keep working. We train ourselves not to quit.” LSU sophomore guard Destini Hughes, who is set to make her second straight start and fourth of the season tonight, said one aspect that cost LSU the triple-overtime game was a failure to pick up offensive rebounds. “Against Ole Miss, they got a lot of loose balls, and that was a key to us losing the game,” Hughes said. “When we go to Florida, we want to make sure we not only box out but go get the rebounds. We’ve been struggling with that, but we’ll get there.” Hughes scored eight points and converted a game-tying jump shot with 0.4 seconds remaining in the first overtime Sunday. She said Chancellor told her to not shy away from attempting to score during the game. “Coach told us before the game that if we feel like we can make it, then just shoot it,” Hughes said. “I didn’t really force anything. It just kind of came, like when [senior guard] Allison [Hightower] passed me the ball because she thought I
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2010
J.J. ALCANTARA / The Daily Reveille
LSU sophomore guard Destini Hughes dribbles the ball down the court Feb. 7 during the Tigers’ 102-101 triple-overtime loss against Ole Miss in the PMAC.
could make it.” Anderson said the support of teammates in taxing games is what propels a team to finish strong. “The sense of camaraderie in those games is higher than ever — it’s ridiculous,” Anderson said. “You can’t let your teammates down because you’ve worked too hard to give up on any one play.” Hightower, a candidate for the 2010 National Player of the Year, missed the entire third overtime Sunday with leg cramping. Chancellor said Hightower was “fine” in practice this week and is expected to start tonight. The play of Hughes and freshman guard Bianca Lutley was encouraging in Hightower’s absence, Chancellor said. “[Hughes] is playing great defense and doing everything we want,” Chancellor said. “Bianca has given us a spark and can make plays. We just have to find somebody she can defend.” Hughes said the team feels a sense of urgency to “pick it up” in the games they have left.
“Our attitude is we’re going to win the next six games,” Hughes said. “We’re looking to turn our season around.”
Contact Rachel Whittaker at rwhittaker@lsureveille.com
‘‘
‘Our outfield is extremely athletic. We don’t shy away from making plays.’
ThursdAy, fEbruAry 11, 2010
THE DAILY REVEILLE
PAGE 15
THE DAILY REVEILLE
Opinion
PAGE 16
WEB COMMENTS
Andrew Robertson’s column in Tuesday’s edition of The Daily Reveille, “Catholic Church is not force for good in world,” has stirred quite a lot of controversy. We’ve received several letters to the editor, and the comments section on our Web site, lsureveille.com, is buzzing. Web commentors had this to say about Andrew Robertson’s column: If there were any indication from this piece that its author is reasonable or capable of listening to reason, I might attempt to clarify the many errors and distortions expressed in his written views so as to enlighten him. But his mind, and those of his atheist champions, are exceedinlgy darkened. For example: “As a gay man, Fry attacked the doctrines of the Church that would prohibit him from membership.” That is false. “Being” gay does not prevent anyone from being a Catholic. Engaging in sodomy is a mortal sin, which means, as with any other mortal sin, a person chooses to reside outside of God’s grace and not partake in the sacraments. If Mr. Fry hates the Catholic Church’s doctrines so much, why does he want to be a member? It reminds me of the Gospel pas-
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Anti-Catholic column’s rhetoric, arguments childish Do you remember as a kid when your younger brother got in an argument with your dad? Even after the argument was over your younger brother would still be yelling mindless babble. His only goal was to achieve a certain “victory” in his mind. To you and your dad what he was saying was meaningless, but your younger brother was convinced that what he just said meant something. That scenario is the same as Robertson’s “Catholic Church is not force for good in world” article. I’m still dumbfounded why certain sentences are so wordy. Is this an attempt to boast one’s credibility? “For starters, the
sage, where a man who is possessed by an evil spirit is both attracted to and repelled by our Lord. Why? Because he recognizes Goodness but also how far he is from it. And he wails and rants much as Mr. Robertson does. Where is your tolerance of diversity, Mr. Robertson? You owe a published apology for such inflamatory, hate-filled, ignorant, bigoted, intolerant speech toward all Catholics, many of whom attend LSU and support the school in many way and live in nearby communities. One point you have made very clearly: atheism is a religion of hate. -Anonymous “It appears as though your problem is not with the issue of whether or not the Catholic Church is doing any moral good in the world, but instead that you do not agree with it existing whatsoever. The Catholic Church is not forcing every person on this planet to succumb to its ideology or even its God. Faith is a free choice, no matter what you believe. For someone who isn’t Catholic it is perfectly acceptable to disagree with what the church teaches, if you agreed with ev-
voice of secularism is finally emerging triumphant over claims of religious infallibility.” Please cut the unnecessary jargon. Furthermore, this article is telling me I should stop following the Church because two free spirits “won” an argument? Yes, the Church has made some rulings I haven’t agreed with, but the Church is not as important of a relationship as my relationship with God. That’s the point that’s missed far too often in this article and atheism in general. The odd thing is that all atheism does is attack others’ views. Yet no one is listening.
GERRI SAX ELLEN ZIELINSKI MATTHEW ALBRIGHT
Editor Managing Editor, Content Managing Editor, External Media Managing Editor, Production Opinion Editor
“I was appalled and deeply offended by this hateful and untruthful rhetoric aimed at the Catholic Church. Regarding Robertson’s use of Hitchen’s line about the Church’s silence during the Holocaust, a cardinal in Austria had already publicly preached against the Nazis. The immediate Nazi response was to murder 6,000 people. Now, let’s see, if Pope Pius XII had publicly spoken out, do you think, maybe, just maybe, would it be illogical to think that way more than 6,000 would have been slaughtered by the Nazis as
a direct result? The Pope did many heroic things, including hiding thousands of Jewish people in his summer palace. After WWII, the secular New York Times commended Pius for his heroism during the war and the Chief Rabbi of Rome was so impressed by Pope Pius’ compassion and work to save lives that he converted to Catholicism after the war. Then what about the thousands of Catholic priests and nuns who were slaughtered (many of them for helping their Jewish brethren) — like Fr. Maximillian Kolbe, who volunteered to take the place of Jewish man in the starvation bunker?” -Anonymous
What do you think? Let your opinions be heard by sending a letter to the editor or logging on to the comments section on lsureveille.com.
Contact The Daily Reveille’s opinion staff at opinion@lsureveille.com
BEST AND WITTIEST
Contact The Daily Reveille’s opinion staff at opinion@lsureveille.com
Editorial Board JERIT ROSER
“This is outrageous. It is an insult to all Catholics in Louisiana, especially the (as Mr. Robertson terms them) “homophobic virgins” who dedicated their lives
to helping others, built Our Lady of the Lake Hospital, St. Joseph’s Academy, and the St. Vincent de Paul Society. I would like to see what the American Humanist Society has to show for itself, no doubt being a great “force for good” in the world. I suppose I’m supposed to congratulate Mr. Robertson on his “courage.” The Catholic Church, like its divine Founder, is an easy target for attack — it often doesn’t fight back. If he wants to really show courage, let Mr. Robertson now go after the Protestants and Jews, and then chew on the Muslims for dessert. I hope not.” -Don Caffery, LSU Class of ‘81
Chris Ballay mass communication senior
THE DAILY REVEILLE NICHOLAS PERSAC
erything, then you’d be Catholic! The Catholic Church does not force its doctrine on others. Those who are Catholic follow the church’s teachings, sure. But others are not required by any international law to believe what the church teaches. Church doctrine does, however, influence what the church does (logically). And so, the relief and aid that the church brings to others will always fit within what the church deems to be right. The real issue isn’t about docrince, but actions. It is about whether or not the actions of the church are for the good of the world. You should not be arguing over doctrines, but instead over the amount of money used towards the poor in the world. Or by the number of people who give their lives for the good of others who aren’t even Catholic... take Mother Theresa for example. The fact that Catholic doctrines do not line up with your own, does not mean that the Church is suddenly a vehicle for evil and a hindrance to society.” -Member of Planet of Earth
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2010
cartoon courtesy of KING FEATURES SYNDICATE
EDITORIAL POLICIES & PROCEDURES The Daily Reveille (USPS 145-800) is written, edited and produced solely by students of Louisiana State University. The Daily Reveille is an independent entity within the Manship School of Mass Communication. Signed opinions are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of the editor, paper or University. Letters submitted for publication should be sent via e-mail to opinion@lsureveille.com or delivered to B-26 Hodges Hall. They must be 400 words or less. Letters must have a contact phone number so the opinion editor can verify the author. The phone number won’t be printed. The Daily Reveille reserves the right to edit letters and guest columns for space consideration without changing the original intent. The Daily Reveille also reserves the right to reject any letter without notification of the author. Writers must include their full names and phone numbers. The Daily Reveille’s editor-in-chief, hired every semester by the Louisiana State University Media Board, has final authority on all editorial decisions.
QUOTE OF THE DAY “Regret for wasted time is more wasted time.”
Mason Cooley American academic, aphorist 1927 — 2002
THE DAILY REVEILLE
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2010
THE GRUMBLING HIVE
Opinion
PAGE 17
I was in that number when the Saints went marching in
Little effort was required to reason away my temporary lapse of studious behavior Thursday evening, sitting in LuLu’s Bar on the beach in Ft. Lauderdale. Earlier last month as I strolled through Target, my brother called to inquire what it would take for me to miss two days of class. “Well, that depends,” I responded. Two tickets to the Super Bowl naturally triggered an immediate loss of academic responsibility on my part. Saints fans were present in full force in Florida and seemed to out number the mild-mannered Colts fans two to one. I bellied up to an outdoor beach bar unofficially claimed by citizens of the “Who Dat Nation” who were well adorned in the honorable colors of black and gold. Insults and challenges were hurled at people in blue and white jerseys who uncomfortably kept at a distance. OK, maybe I didn’t just sit
there — participation was compulsory. A duty, really. But it wasn’t the enormous turnout of Saints fans that most amazed me. Rather, it was the widespread support from people around the country. The entire nation seemed to be pulling for the Saints. Maybe, as often happens, this is because the Saints were the underdogs, coming into battle against the champion Colts, led by “The General” Peyton Manning. But I believe it was more than this. The nation wants healing for Louisiana, especially New Orleans. I heard repeatedly, “They deserve it ... after everything that city has been through,” and “they earned this one.” At the NFL tailgate party, Saints fans — wearing capes, masks, hats and lots of paint — chugged beer and danced. Mardi Gras had arrived early. Colts fans received a lesson in proper tailgate
behavior. Their soon-to-dissipate confidence was tame in the presence of the jovial (and obnoxious) Saints fans. The game itself was incredible — yes, I know everyone watched it — but ask anyone who was there, and they will say that the energy was palpable. W h e n Drew Brees and the boys returned to the field following Nathan Schull a rough first Columnist half — and a great halftime show featuring “The Who” (they might be a little old for you all — hell, they’re even old for me!) — the stadium erupted into a deafening roar that told the world where everyone’s support lay. The Saints’ onside kick to start the third quarter turned the tide of the game and was followed
by Sean Payton’s successful challenge of a pass first ruled incomplete to Lance Moore, resulting in a two-point conversion. Following Tracy Porter’s momentous interception in the fourth quarter, the defense held, and the game was history. Lonely and dejected Indianapolis fans shuffled for the exits as the clock wound down and hope for a Colts’ return waned. The stadium erupted in a blaze of fireworks and victorious chants and screams. There was a sense of vindication: “We told you we were that good!” The Saints have an incredible team, but I think Payton deserves more than his equal share of credit. He built this team, brought them together with incredible focus and drew the entire community (and, actually, the entire nation) into their cause — awareness and concern for Louisiana. As Miami and New Orleans were engulfed in a flood of
celebration, I headed back to Ft. Lauderdale for the NFL postgame party. On the way, I pondered the significance of what I had witnessed. This was much more than a Super Bowl win — more than the making of sports history. This was a statement to the world that Louisiana matters, and that New Orleans is here to stay. True power lies in belief. This is a great state, which doesn’t get the respect or the consideration it deserves from the rest of the nation. There is more to Louisiana than Mardi Gras and crawfish — there is true potential! Who Dat?! Nathan Shull is a 35-year-old finance junior from Seattle. Follow him on Twitter @TDR_nshull.
Contact Nathan Shull at nshull@lsureveille.com
PRESS X TO NOT DIE
Your classroom really wants you to be a Millionaire I want you to think of the first thing that comes to your mind when you imagine the following scenario: The mood is solemn, the lights dim and the question is displayed on the screen. The person at the bottom of the large auditorium reads the question out loud for all to hear. Silence and confusion fill the air and all of a sudden you’re asked for your input. You must vote A, B, C or D starting... now! You lock in your answer, but are somewhat concerned about your selection. The correct answered is finally revealed... You are unfortunately not an audience member of the television show “Who Wants to be a Millionaire,” and the person at the bottom of the large auditorium is not Regis Philbin. With the University’s many large auditorium classes, instructors had to think of a way to hold students accountable for showing up to class without spending the whole class period calling roll. Thus, it established the “clicker” system around campus. I was required my freshman year to spend $40 on a TurningPoint ResponseCard for both my chemistry and biology classes. That’s a bit expensive for a little remote control (considering a Wiimote is the same price, and I can get a lot more fun out of it), but I could see how they were useful because both of those classes had 300-400 students each. Forty dollars is steep, especially for a poor college student. But using it in two classes, plus the
rest of my college career, seemed like it would eventually be worth it. I took those classes five semesters ago and still have found no use for my ResponseCard. This semester looked bright for the little guy. I have two classes in the 1000-seat Cox Auditorium, the perfect scenario for my $40 remote. But, to my dismay, the first class I went to does not require it. No need to fear, entering my second class in the building, it appears my teacher will use a clicker. Yet the clicker the teacher holds up did not resemble the clicker I grew to know and love Adam Arinder — she held up Columnist an “i>clicker.” You’ve got to be kidding me. Not only do I have to spend another $40 on a piece of equipment that does the exact same thing as the remote I already have, I feel as if I’m cheating on my ResponseCard with this new i>clicker — and cheating is never a good thing to do. I talk highly of my little ResponseCard, but the whole clicker system on campus is ridiculous. Not only is it unfair to require students to spend $40 (now $80 in my case) on a little piece of plastic, to have a full letter grade riding on the system actually working consistently is absurd. Almost all students at the University are of legal age — it should be up to them to decide whether they want to attend class and pos-
sibly pass a test or not. By forcing some of these students to attend class against their will, the only thing this causes is distraction among the rest of class. So many times in these clicker-required classes, I see other students register their answer then just check Facebook or watch videos on YouTube — some even with the sound on. Sounds like a great learning environment, right? I understand attendance usually leads to better grades, and the
University looks better if grades are higher, but there has to be a better way. Instead of buying the $40 ResponseCard, why can’t I just download the free Turning Technologies app on my iPod Touch and use it? Oh, because the University doesn’t want to foot the subscription fee Turning Technologies requires for the service? That’s right ... budget cuts. There is a better solution out there, one that won’t cost me the same as a textbook — you know,
the thing that will actually further my knowledge. I guess it’s me and my fancy new i>clicker until then. Oh well, at least “Lost” is back on. Adam Arinder is a 20-year-old communication studies junior from Baton Rouge. Follow him on Twitter @TDR_aarinder.
Contact Adam Arinder at aarinder@lsureveille.com
MISS-SKETCH
LACYE BEAUREGARD / The Daily Reveille
THE DAILY REVEILLE
Classifieds
PAGE 18
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For Rent lsU walk to campus Big clean 1 br $495. new orleans courtyard style. Pool, coin laundry, bus line. no pets 766-5511 lsU tiGerlanD sPecial lg studios 1&2 Br th &Flat Pool, w/f, $450 to $695 225.615.8521 Practically on caMPUs! 1 & 2 bedrms ranging from $375/mo - $525/mo. 225.344.9995 tiGer Manor conDoMiniUMs. Units reaDy For sPrinG and Fall 2010! reserve now! Brand new 1, 2, & 3 bedrooms available. reserve your unit today! walk to class! 3000 July st. 225-346-5055. www.tigermanor.com location. location. location... start living. For lease houses, apartments, condos & townhomes For lease in all areas! www. keyFinDersBr. coM or call keyfinders realty 225-293-3000 For More inFo 2Br hoUse Downtown For lease!! 2Br/1Ba $1150/Mo wooD Floors, Deck, FenceD yarD. www. keyFinDersBr. coM For Pics. anD More inFo. keyFinDers realty 225-293-3000 sUMMer Grove conDs Gated community off Brightside clubhouse with pool & work out room all appliances included 1, 2 & 3 Bedroom Units now accepting Deposit for summer Dean Flores real estate 225.767.2227 3 BeDrooM hoUse near caMPUs 691 Dentation. three bedrooms, two full baths, competely renovated home in highland hills $1500 a month, $1000 deposit, 1 yr lease 225.278.6650 the Blox aPartMents FUlly Furnished apartments e-Mail: bloxapts@livmgt.brcoxmail.com the FollowinG Prices are valiD For those lookinG to Move-in iMMeDiately anD siGn a lease anywhere FroM Month to Month UP to 5 Months! [Blox lease rates] 2 Bedroom Units - $650/ Month 3 Bedroom Units - $750/ Month 4 Bedroom Units - $850/ Month security Deposit - $300 rent includes: electricity, water, sewer, trash, and Pest control. -if you put utilities in your name, we will deduct $100 from your monthly rental rate. -we also offer UnFUrnisheD apartments! sPecial: Free Membership to spectrum Fitness for the duration of your tenancy with us! 225.246.2274 2Br/2.5Ba th For rent w/D, alarm system, covered parking, private courtyard. incredible location, off Perkins near college Dr. $1,000/mo. call Melissa @ 225.343.0010 walk to caMPUs 1Br, 2Br, and townhomes. starting as low as $400.00. www.lsuwestchimesplace.com 225.346.4789 2 BD 2.5 Bath conDo available immediately. renovated, w/ D. $900/mo. very secluded, backs up to
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Miscellaneous
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2010
THE DAILY REVEILLE
PAGE 19
bus tour promoted census awareness in Baton Rouge with givethe census at events across campus. aways and a live band, said Bridget The Bateman team passed out Cloud, Bateman team member. stickers and stamps at the Owl City April 1 was declared Ò Census concert at the Varsity Theatre on DayÓ at the bus tour, Cloud said. Tuesday night. The Bureau will mail out the Ò Ten questions in 10 minutes forms in March, and they will be can affect the next 10 years of your available in dorms, residence halls life,Ó said Bateman team member and Greek houses, according to Lauren St. Pierre. Cloud. The 2010 Census is the shortest The census decides congresin history to increase the ease of the sional seats and where district lines survey, according to the Bureau. are redrawn. Louisiana is predicted The first U.S. census took place to lose a congressional seat, said in 1790 and found about 3.9 million Kirby Goidel, associate professor of inhabitants, acmass communicacording to the Bution and political reau. science. RepreCENLouisianaÕ s SUS plans to atpopulation is growtend gymnastics ing, but not at the meets, basketball rate of other states. games and various Unlike other states, student organizaLouisianaÕ s main Lauren St. Pierre tions throughout population growth Bateman team member the month. comes from birth East Baton instead of immiRouge Mayor-President Kip Hold- gration, Goidel said. en proclaimed February “U.S. CenÒ With Hurricane Katrina, sus Awareness MonthÓ in Baton Louisiana had a late influx of immiRouge at the Metropolitan Council grant population compared to other meeting Wednesday. southern states,Ó said Laura Moyer, The Bureau’s official van tour political science assistant professor. stopped at the Bonne CarreÕ Busi- Ò Also, many families relocated to ness Center in Baton Rouge on different places.Ó Tuesday. Some of MoyerÕ s students are The Ò Portrait of AmericaÓ 13- collecting information about hard-
to-count populations as part of her political science class for the League of Women Voters. “There is an advantage in finding what the challenges are to collecting census data and documenting it to see in the future,Ó Moyer said. Moyer plans to share the data with communities and other leagues across the country. The census also provides a short-term economic stimulus by employing and training community members in short-term jobs to distribute, collect and analyze census data. Ò The [Bureau] trains its own workers. It doesnÕ t delegate to other groups,Ó Moyer said. Some Americans find the census questionnaire intrusive Ñ questions about income, race and poverty may be too personal. The Bureau cannot share any information with anyone by law, including federal agencies. “It is confidential, primarily used to find out what a community is like,Ó Goidel said. Non-U.S. citizens and internationals must also fill out the forms.
Katrina, van Heerden claims he was reprimanded by former vice chancellors Harold Silverman and Michael Ruffner for his criticisms. The suit claims Silverman and Ruffner admonished van Heerden for his criticisms and claimed he was jeopardizing University prospects for federal funding. Van Heerden saw this as infringement on his academic freedom and free speech as well as a threat to his job. In April 2007 plaintiffs against the Corps in litigation relating to the Mississippi Gulf Outlet sought out van Heerden as an expert witness. Van HeerdenÕ s suit claims then Chancellor Sean OÕ Keefe told an attorney for the plaintiffs that van Heerden would
be fired if he testified against the Corps. Ò They were responding from outside pressures from people who didnÕ t want unfavorable science to come out on the Corps,Ó van Heerden said. Ò They also tried to discredit my qualifications because they knew I was going to be an expert witness.Ó Van Heerden also claimed administrators manipulated his contract before removing him. Ò Although the decision not to renew Ivor van HeerdenÕ s contract was made before I came to LSU, I have carefully reviewed the process that led to that decision and am confident that the process was handled appropriately,Ó Chancellor Michael Martin said in a prepared statement Wednesday. Van Heerden also accused the defendants of libel and slander stemming from their comments claiming van Heerden lacked scientific expertise and was misleading the public with irresponsible information.
CENSUS, from page 1
‘‘
‘Ten questions in 10 minutes can affect the next 10 years of your life.’
LAWSUIT, from page 1
who served van Heerden his notice of non-renewal Ñ declined to give a reason for the notice. Following the widespread flooding during Hurricane Katrina, van Heerden Ñ then an associate professor and researcher Ñ led a research group investigating the cause of the disastrous flooding in the Crescent City. The groupÕ s research led van Heerden to believe failures in the CorpsÕ engineering were responsible for the levee failings blamed for 90 percent of the flooding and 50 percent of the associated deaths. Following a U.S. Senate testimony in which van Heerden was critical of the New Orleans levees, which failed during
Contact Grace Montgomery at gmontgomery@lsureveille.com
Contact Xerxes A. Wilson at xwilson@lsureveille.com
CHANCELLOR, from page 1
people who write checks for their campaigns than the people they write checks to, Martin said. When the floor opened for questions at the end of the forum, many faculty members expressed concern about the message the University needs to send for support and the non-renewal notice letters faculty members received and questioned if the administration was also receiving cuts. Contact Mary Walker Baus at mwbaus@lsureveille.com
Thursday, february 11, 2010
THE DAILY REVEILLE
PaGe 20