The Daily Reveille — November 20, 2009

Geaux to Hell, Ole Miss!

Log on to lsureveille.com to see places to explore in Oxford and how the Ole Miss team stacks up. And check out the slideshow of previous years’ “Geaux to Hell, Ole Miss!” papers.

THE DAILY REVEILLE WWW.LSUREVEILLE.COM

Volume 114, Issue 62

Friday, November 20, 2009

MUSIC

Country fest records sales in 46 states

By Steven Powell Contributing Writer

back Deuce McAllister.

The Rebels defeated the Tigers, 37-31, in overtime. The Rebels were not led by McAllister, but instead by quarterback Romero Miller, who threw for 279 yards and four touchdowns.

LSU trailed the game, 31-10, at the beginning of the fourth quarter before rallying to tie the game on a pass from quarterback Herb Tyler to running back Rondell Mealey with two seconds to play in regulation.

In overtime, the Rebels scored on their first offensive play. On the Tigers’ offensive possession, they drove to the Rebel 4-yard line before Tyler’s pass on fourth-andgoal fell incomplete.

Following that fateful October

The Bayou Country Superfest tickets went on sale just two weeks ago, but the concert is already turning heads and gaining national attention.

The Bayou Country Superfest — a two-day music event — will be held in Tiger Stadium May 29-30, featuring Kenny Chesney, Taylor Swift, Brooks & Dunn and Keith Urban Quint Davis, Festival Productions Inc. CEO and producer/director of the Bayou Country Superfest, said ticket sales have been steady, selling daily since going on sale Nov. 5. Festival Productions isn’t releasing sales numbers, but Davis said they sold tickets in 1,000 cities, 46 states, five Canadian provinces and Germany.

“It’s unusual to sell this many tickets this early in advance,” he said. “We’re selling more tickets early than a concert would because of the size of the festival.”

Festival Productions estimates having 50,000 seats available each night — 100,000 total — Davis said.

All the seats in Tiger Stadium are reserved seating, which means people will buy tickets in advance to get good seats, he said.

“We hope to sell out, but we’ll have to wait and see how sales trends progress,” he said. “Based on the numbers we’re seeing now, it’s a strong likely hood.”

University students, faculty and

OXFORD, see page 11

TICKETS, see page 15

KIM FOSTER / The Daily Reveille

Chad Jones (3) and Harry Coleman (24) tackle an Ole Miss player Nov. 22, 2008, during last year’s game in Tiger Stadium. The Rebels beat the Tigers, 31-13.

Second Home

Tigers look to extend Oxford winning streak Turn to page 12 to read the Editorial Board’s view about the Ku Klux Klan in Oxford this weekend.

Log on to read “The Rouge Awakening” blog about a LSU freshman traveling home for the Ole Miss game.

By Rob Landry Sports Contributor

Success in Oxford, Miss., is not a foreign concept to the LSU football team.

The last time Ole Miss (7-3, 3-3) defeated LSU (8-2, 4-2) at home was Halloween Day 1998.

Since then, the Tigers have a fourgame winning streak at VaughtHemingway Stadium.

But this year’s game presents a more daunting task for the Tigers than some previous matchups.

“This Ole Miss team is a very, very talented team,” said LSU coach Les Miles. “[Ole Miss] coach [Houston] Nutt does a great job preparing them.”

The feature players in the ’98 game were LSU running back Kevin Faulk and Ole Miss’ running

BR COMMUNITY

Green Light Plan completes project Picardy extends from Bluebonnet to Essen

By Mary Walker Baus Staff Writer

Even though “Dead End” signs still line the curbs on Picardy Avenue, Bluebonnet Boulevard and Essen Lane, these streets are now connected because of the latest

Green Light Plan project.

Mayor-President Melvin “Kip” Holden, East Baton Rouge Parish Chief Construction Engineer Jose Alvarez and other members of the Green Light Plan celebrated the completion of the eighth project with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Thursday. “[Vehicles] are able to access [Baton Rouge General Medical Center] in a more efficient manner, especially emergency vehicles,” said William Holman, Baton Rouge General president and CEO. “They

can have quicker access to the facility. This holds true for physicians, employees and visitors as well.”

Barber Brothers Contracting Co., LLC of Baton Rouge, through the public bid process had a $2.4 million contract to connect the existing Picardy Avenue segments off Bluebonnet Boulevard and Essen Lane.

The project was completed a month ahead of schedule.

GREEN LIGHT, see page 15

MEGAN J. WILLIAMS / The Daily Reveille

Mayor-President Kip Holden cuts the ribbon held by Green Light Project participants Thursday to open the Picardy Avenue extension.

THE DAILY REVEILLE

Nation & World

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2009

INTERNATIONAL

NATIONAL

UN urges help for 1 billion children deprived of food, shelter, water

Customs agents seize 316,000 bongs disguised as ornaments

UNITED NATIONS (AP) — UNICEF urged the world to help the 1 billion children still deprived of food, shelter, clean water or health care — and the hundreds of millions more threatened by violence — two decades after the U.N. adopted a treaty guaranteeing children’s rights.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Customs officials say they got a surprise when they found 316,000 glass bongs disguised as Christmas ornaments at the Los Angeles harbor.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection said Thursday that agents found the highly decorated drug pipes in 860 boxes shipped from China. The cargo, estimated to be worth more than $2.6 million, had been described as glass figures and Christmas ornaments.

Two police officers killed Friday in Pakistan after court bombing PESHAWAR, Pakistan (AP) — A blast early Friday killed two police offers a day after a suicide bomber killed 19 people outside a courthouse in northwestern Pakistan, the latest attacks in an onslaught by Islamist militants retaliating against an army offensive near the Afghan border.

The bombings brought to eight the number of attacks in less than two weeks around Peshawar, the largest city in the northwest. The attacks have killed more than 80 people.

Health care bill helps wavering Louisiana senator WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid has included at least $100 million in Medicaid funds for Louisiana in his health care bill at the same time he is trying to persuade that state’s wavering Democratic senator to cast a pivotal vote

for the overhaul legislation.

Sen. Mary Landrieu, D-La., is among a handful of senators who have not said what they will do when Reid holds a showdown vote on beginning debate on the legislation Saturday night. Landrieu said the extra Medicaid assistance is “one of the things that’s important” to her decision but won’t determine her vote.

200 Web sites spread al-Qaida’s message in English RIYADH,Saudi Arabia (AP) — Increasing numbers of English-language Web sites are spreading alQaida’s message to Muslims in the West.

They translate writings and sermons once largely out of reach of English readers and often feature charismatic clerics like Anwar alAwlaki, who exchanged dozens of e-mails with the Army psychiatrist accused of the Fort Hood shootings.

The U.S.-born al-Awlaki has been an inspiration to several militants arrested in the United States.

STATE/LOCAL

Katrina ruling could bring new deluge of lawsuits from victims

Walgreens pharmacy technician booked with prescription fraud

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — A landmark court ruling blaming the Army Corps of Engineers’ “monumental negligence” for some of the worst flooding from Hurricane Katrina could lead to a new deluge: billions of dollars in legal action from thousands of storm victims.

The federal judge’s harshly worded decision also served as vindication for residents of St. Bernard Parish and the Lower 9th Ward in New Orleans who have long argued that Katrina was largely a manmade disaster, caused by the federal government’s failure to maintain the levees protecting the city.

“Finally, somebody has said the truth,” said Catherine Serpas, 67, whose family runs a bicycle and lawnmower store in Chalmette, La. She said the Army Corps’ work on a 76-mile channel called the Mississippi River-Gulf Outlet “destroyed the family life we knew. St. Bernard will never be what it used to be.”

SLIDELL, (AP) — Authorities say a Slidell pharmacy technician allegedly scored nearly 40 prescriptions for hydrocodone by manipulating the computer system at the Walgreens where she worked.

TODAY ON

lsureveille com

GROOVIN’ IT INTERNATIONAL STYLE Cultural Dance Event with incredible performers Free food and drinks. Hosted by ISA At the ICC, 3365 Dalrymple Drive Friday, Nov. 20, 6p.m.-9p.m.

WOMEN OF MANHATTAN Free Showing November 20th 1:30PM In the Reilly Theatre

Survey shows southern counties have highest obesity rates ATLANTA (AP) — The first county-by-county survey of obesity reflects past studies that show the rate of obesity is highest in the Southeast and Appalachia.

High rates of obesity and diabetes were reported in more than 80 percent of counties in the Appalachian region that includes Kentucky, Tennessee and West Virginia, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The same problem was seen in about 75 percent of counties in Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Georgia and South Carolina.

Find The Daily Reveille on Facebook at www.facebook.com/lsureveille.

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Follow The Daily Reveille on @TDR_news, @TDR_sports and @lsureveille.

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TODAY

STUDENT REAL ESTATE ASSOCIATION Meeting Thursday, 19th 6:30pm Patrick F. Taylor room 1112 Jill Newton of ARGUS

PAGE 2

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YOU SAY POTATO, I SAY POTATO

Partly Cloudy

SATURDAY 62 50 MONDAY 73 50

SUNDAY 69 48 TUESDAY 72 48

ONGOING IN NOVEMBER DELTA SIGMA THETA SORORITY’S 7th ANNUAL AIDS WALK Sunday November 22nd, Atchafalaya Room, 10:00am For more information contact: cstokes2@tigers.lsu.edu

GRANT GUTIERREZ / The Daily Reveille

Log on to lsureveille.com to see pictures from the sweet potato sale.

BESO SWEET POTATO AND RICE SALE!!

On the corner of Highland and S. Stadium Nov. 16-20 and 23-25 from 8:00am-6:00pm

CORRECTIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS

The Daily Reveille holds accuracy and objectivity at the highest priority and wants to reassure the reporting and content of the paper meets these standards.This space is reserved to recognize and correct any mistakes which may have been printed in The Daily Reveille. If you would like something corrected or clarified please contact the editor at (225) 5784811 or e-mail editor@lsureveille.com.

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

The Daily Reveille (USPS 145-800) is written, edited and produced solely by students of Louisiana State University. The Daily Reveille is an independent entity within the Manship School of Mass Communication. A single issue of The Daily Reveille is free. To purchase additional copies for 25 cents, please contact the Office of Student Media in B-34 Hodges Hall. The Daily Reveille is published daily during the fall and spring semesters and semi-weekly during the summer semester, except during holidays and final exams. Secondclass copies postage paid at Baton Rouge, La., 70803. Annual weekly mailed subscriptions are $125, semester weekly mailed subscriptions are $75. Non-mailed student rates are $4 each regular semester, $2 during the summer; one copy per person, additional copies 25 cents each. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Daily Reveille, B-39 Hodges Hall, LSU, Baton Rouge, La.,70803.

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

Friday, November 20, 2009

THE DAILY REVEILLE

ENVIRONMENT

PAGE 3

MUSIC

‘Impact’ focuses on sustainability Singer Swift signs Diverse interests attend forum

By Adam Duvernay Senior Staff Writer

Louisiana energy and sustainability experts said Thursday the state has the capacity to produce much of its own energy through renewable resources and reduced individual use.

A coalition of University, government and private interests met Thursday in the Dalton J. Woods Auditorium of the Energy, Coast and Environment Building to promote individual and community energy responsibility.

“Our individual usage of energy may not seem like a lot, but all of us collectively looking to reduce our own energy use can really make an impact,” said Jeff Williams, director of environmental issues for Entergy.

Make an Impact, presented by the University, Entergy and the Pew Center on Climate Change, brought together representatives of Louisiana energy for lecture and discussion of current sustainability issues.

“We bring really diverse interests together,” said Sidney Coffee of America’s Wetland Foundation.

“This cooperation has been the message we’ve been sending since we started.”

Coffee said there is often dissent between different interests she works with, some believing in the threat of global climate change while others deny it.

She said the key to fostering relations between these interests is to focus on real and visible threats like rising sea levels and the threat to the Louisiana coast.

Mike McDaniel, University Center for Energy Studies, said it’s important for energy interests to reach for the “low hanging fruits” of sustainability, or the smaller, more attainable goals.

McDaniel suggested individuals use more efficient lighting and passive heating to reduce energy use and save money over time.

He said waste-heat recovery is the largest untapped resource in the country.

McDaniel said recovering just 20 percent of waste-heat from America’s industrial sector could generate 180 gigawatts of power, equivalent to 150 nuclear power plants.

In Louisiana, McDaniel said there are dozens of options for renewable energy solutions, including turbines in the Mississippi River and geothermal/geopressure reservoirs.

Though the state doesn’t have to worry about the availability of power sources, Williams said many of the

technologies needed to tap these resources are underdeveloped and need serious government and private investment.

About 50 people, including students, faculty and concerned locals, came to listen to and ask questions of these officials. Members of the Environmental Conservation Organization at LSU also attended the meeting.

“There is a real effort to draw in corporate, academia and

government to try and solve the many environmental problems we face,” said Matt Wyatt, ECO at LSU co-vice president.

Wyatt said the speakers were mostly “preaching to the choir” during the event, but said it was important to have open discussions of the issue.

Contact Adam Duvernay at aduvernay@lsureveille.com

greeting card deal

By The Associated Press CLEVELAND — Fresh off her triumph at the Country Music Association Awards, Taylor Swift has netted a deal to create a line of greeting cards.

American Greetings Corp. CEO Zev Weiss says Swift’s abilities as a storyteller and songwriter make her a natural for writing cards that will appeal to all ages.

The Cleveland-based company said Tuesday that cards, gift wrap, stationery, online greetings and other related products overseen by Swift

will begin appearing in the spring.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

In a statement, Swift calls the opportunity to write and design greeting cards “a wonderful experience.” The 19-year-old Swift, who was named the 2009 CMA entertainer of the year, says she has always been fascinated by feelings and how people express them.

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

Mellow Mushroom Abita Specials: $6 Abita Pitchers and $1 Off Abita Bottles Karaoke @ 11PM. Best Performer Wins $100 MEGAN J. WILLIAMS / The Daily Reveille

“Make an Impact” panelists answer audience questions Thursday morning in the Dalton J. Woods Auditorium in the Energy, Coast and Environment Building.

Plucker’s Wing Bar Monday: $14.99 All you can eat wings and $3 Plucker’s Lemonades Tuesday: $2.50 Mexican Beers and Margaritas Wednesday: Trivia at 8PM. $4 Mother Plucker Mugs Thursday: $15.99 All you can eat wings. $4 Mother Plucker Mugs. $3 Margaritas and Plucker’s Lemonades Bogie’s Friday: $4 double Jim Beam and Stoi and $1 shots after 12 Saturday: Free Drinks for Ladies till 10 Fred’s Bar 8-10 PM Fred’s Facebook Fridays Free Longnecks and Call Brands like: Jack Daniels, Crown Royal and Absolut Saturday: $2 Shots All Night Come Party with Fred’s while the Tigers are Away!

9-10:30 AM 12-1:30 PM 4:00-5:30 PM 8:00- 9:30 PM 1:00AM-2:30AM

The Forsaken Blade Trinity Underworld Evolution Interview with a Vampire The Forsaken

PAGE 4

THE DAILY REVEILLE

FOREVER LSU

Students create videos for contest

Friday, November 20, 2009

ROCKIN’ AROUND THE CHRISTMAS TREE

Ideas include rap, Monty Python

By Kyle Bove Senior Staff Writer

Students voted for the top three finalists in the Forever LSU Student Video Contest on Thursday night in the Lawton Room in Tiger Stadium.

The 2-3 minute videos — which ranged in style from rap music videos to Monty Python spoofs — were made to let students know about the importance of private funding to the University.

Seven videos were submitted, and about 100 students voted on the videos, along with a panel of judges made up of Forever LSU officials, University professors and other students.

Caitlin Cleveland, family, child and consumer sciences junior, made a rap video for the contest.

“I love to make rap music,” Cleveland said. “So I thought I’d put it to good use.”

In her video, Cleveland rapped about what Forever LSU — the University’s fundraising branch — does, including raise money for scholarships, building renovations and professorships through private donations.

Cleveland’s video, along with the other six, also talked about how students can get involved — such as donating money through their PAWS account and by swiping their Tiger Cards at participating locations.

The Student Video Contest is part of Forever LSU’s new student-driven campaign set to launch in the spring.

Forever LSU has raised $659 million since its inception in 2006, according to Beverly Major, director of the campaign. Its goal is to raise $750 million by 2010.

The top three finalists, who will be announced by Dec. 4, will receive a 32G iPod Touch and mentoring from Emmy Awardwinning producer, director and University alumnus Robert Zimmerman.

Those finalists will then gain access to high-tech equipment to reshoot their videos and edit them down to one minute. Students will vote on their favorite of the three online and the winner will be announced and featured on the score board during the LSU-Kentucky men’s basketball game Feb. 6.

The grand prize is a 13-inch, 2.53GHz Macbook Pro and one

JASON BORDELON / The Daily Reveille

Students screen and judge video submissions Thursday night in the Lawton Room in Tiger Stadium for the Forever LSU Student Video Contest.

Central “B” parking pass and Easy Streets wand for one year. “[The contest] has made me appreciate what Forever LSU does,” Cleveland said.

James Rodger, mass communication sophomore, submitted his video, “LSU Man,” which used a film technique called stop motion.

Rodger and his friend Seth Reich, electrical engineering senior, made the video in Reich’s apartment by stringing together

15-20 pictures a second, showing Reich — as LSU Man — flying around campus and improving its facilities, like Forever LSU. “We’re really excited,” Rodger said. “We really want to see it get to that high level of production.”

SHAINA HUNTSBERRY/ The Daily Reveille

Contact Kyle Bove at kbove@lsureveille.com

Workers from Facility Services set up the Christmas tree Thursday at 11 a.m. near the Memorial Tower.

Friday, November 20, 2009

THE DAILY REVEILLE

FACULTY

PAGE 5

ECONOMY

Psych professors back from DC La. ranked 20th Kelley and Advokat most troubled state advocate funding

By Sarah Eddington Contributing Writer

Two University psychology professors returned Monday from the American Psychological Association’s fifth annual Science Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C., as part of a group of only 100 professionals selected to attend.

Mary Lou Kelley, clinical psychology professor, and Claire Advokat, biological psychology professor, were the first University professors to be invited to an APA conference.

The goal of this year’s conference, entitled “Enhancing the Nation’s Health Through Psychological Science,” was to advocate for increased federal funding in psychological research and training to ultimately improve the nation’s health, according to the invitation.

The participants were trained to speak with legislative correspondents from their state to discuss maintaining funding from the National Institute of Health, protecting the peer review process for grant applications and advocating for the inclusion of psychology in comparative effectiveness research, Kelley said.

Participants were selected based partly on where they live and partly

on the type of research they conduct, Virginia Holt, assistant executive director of APA, said in an e-mail to The Daily Reveille.

While some states had more than two people attend, some states had no representation, Holt said, and this was decided based on the interests of the congressional correspondents.

“We hope it will make a difference,” Kelley said. “It was a great opportunity to let them know what we are doing in Louisiana.”

Kelley specializes in the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents. Her work originally dealt with ADHD and its relationship to education performance. But after Hurricane Katrina, she focused her research on children’s psychological adjustments following coastal disasters.

“We wanted to give them a better understanding of how research is useful to their state,” Kelley said.

“And to make them more aware of psychology as a science and contributor to health.”

Advokat and Kelley met with congressional staff members from five different offices from Louisiana.

Advokat said three of the five were University graduates, including former Student Government President Cassie Alsfeld.

Advokat said she and Kelley, along with two other psychology professors from Louisiana, explained their research and how it benefits the

country and the state.

“We wanted to show them the positive effects of the funding,” Advokat said.

Advokat’s expertise is in psychopharmacology — drugs that affect the brain. Specifically, she researches how and why psychiatric medications work to relieve symptoms in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety and ADHD. Kelley said she enjoyed learning about large-scale psychological research projects, like one the U.S. Army and NIH are conducting that involves predicting suicidal patterns and behavior in the military.

Kelley said the conference gave her an opportunity to see what the federal government is currently funding, which includes studies related to health care and mental health.

“Diabetes and obesity are huge epidemics, and there’s a strong behavioral component,” Kelley said.

“It certainly reminded me of priorities for grant money.”

Advokat said it was very rewarding to be seen as someone who can make a contribution.

“We made it clear that we’d be available to [the congressional correspondents],” Advokat said. “We made an effort to show them it was a two-way street.”

Contact Sarah Eddington at seddington@lsureveille.com

By Kyle Bove

Senior Staff Writer

A study released last week ranked all 50 states based on levels of financial peril — Louisiana ranked 20th.

But compared to states like California, which tops the fiscal peril list, the Pelican State is fairing well.

The Pew Center on the States conducted the study, which looked at factors like state unemployment, revenue change and foreclosure rates.

Doug Weimer, economics instructor, said the oil and gas industries have done well during the recession. Many of those companies are located in Louisiana and along the Gulf Coast.

Weimer also said construction jobs after Hurricane Katrina in 2005 boosted Louisiana’s economy and continue to do so. “This is one of those times where the bad news of Katrina has turned into the good news of the recession,” he said.

Job growth after Hurricane Gustav in 2008 also had a positive effect on Louisiana’s economy, Weimer said. “That tends to be offsetting some of the general problems of the recession,” he said.

Louisiana’s revenue has decreased by 8.8 percent from the first

quarter of 2008 to the first quarter of 2009, according to the study.

California’s revenue has decreased by 16.2 percent during the same time period. Pew’s study, entitled “Beyond California: States in Fiscal Peril,” also looked at foreclosure rates. California’s is 2.02 percent for the first quarter of 2009, while Louisiana’s is 0.86 percent.

Weimer said the housing market, along with other factors, can significantly impact the overall economy, which it has.

Louisiana is tied with Oklahoma in the study. Louisiana state officials are wrestling with a $3 billion state budget shortfall expected for the next two years. The Commission on Streamlining Government is looking for ways the state can handle the blow.

Weimer said while signs of an improving economy may pop up soon, Louisiana residents won’t likely notice the difference until the unemployment improves.

As of September, the state’s unemployment rate was 7.4 percent, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. California’s unemployment rate was 12 percent in September.

Contact Kyle Bove at kbove@lsureveille.com

PAGE 6

THE DAILY REVEILLE

Friday, November 20, 2009

THE DAILY REVEILLE FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2009

MEN’S BASKETBALL

Farrer could miss rest of season

Sports

Shifting Gears

PAGE 7

Green to be a playmaker in Ole Miss secondary, return game Sat.

By Chris Branch Sports Contributor

By Rachel Whittaker

Things keep getting worse for Alex Farrer.

The senior guard and Phoenix native underwent surgery Nov. 9 for what trainers thought was a dislocated kneecap. Farrer suffered the injury six days before the LSU men’s basketball team began the season.

But coach Trent Johnson said Thursday that Farrer’s prognosis is much worse than originally thought.

“The report from Alex is that it was a lot worse than just a dislocated kneecap,” Johnson said. “I would have liked to have taken him to New York, but I’m not taking him now. That was very depressing for me just because I was hoping that it was a worst-case scenario dislocated kneecap.”

Doctors found several “loose bodies,” or bones and joints that had to be removed from Farrer’s knee, said senior associate sports information director Kent Lowe.

With a dislocated kneecap, Farrer was only slated to miss four to six weeks. It’s looking more like he might miss the whole season.

“That’s what I’m guessing,” Johnson said. “[LSU trainer] Shawn [Eddy] just said it didn’t look good.”

Farrer was supposed to finally step into the starting lineup for his final season in Baton Rouge. He was honored on the 2007 and 2009 SEC Academic Honor Roll.

Chief Sports Writer

“Yes, sir,” Ole Miss senior cornerback answered coach Houston Nutt with an assured voice and determined tone.

Green said only these two words when the coach asked him to take a chance at cornerback for the Rebels, even though the Bastrop High School alumnus had played offense most of his life.

“Marshay really saved us. When he got here … our secondary was so thin,” Nutt said. “We didn’t really have a cornerback besides Cassius Vaughn. So we asked Marshay if he would go over to play corner. He had a tremendous attitude, said, ‘Yes, sir,’ and was really unselfish.”

GREEN, see page 11

picture courtesy of MATTHEW SHARPE / Ole Miss Athletics

[Left] Senior cornerback Marshay Green lines up on defense before a play. [Right] Green runs the ball against Texas Tech on Jan. 2 during the AT&T Cotton Bowl.

Contact Chris Branch at cbranch@lsureveille.com

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

Team set for doubleheader Lady Tigers coming off win vs. top-25 team

By Rachel Whittaker Chief Sports Writer

BRIANNA PACIORKA / The Daily Reveille

LSU guard Allison Hightower defends Centenary guard Donecia Cook during the Lady Tigers’ 92-19 victory against Centenary Sunday in the PMAC.

After the LSU women’s basketball team’s four-point loss to Middle Tennessee in 2008, the Lady Tigers fell to 1-3 and were left wondering how they let the game slip away.

This season, No. 7 LSU (2-0) emerged from the Middle Tennessee contest with a 61-40 victory, and the team will take that momentum into its two weekend games at home Saturday against Houston (2-0) and Sunday against Nicholls

State (0-1).

Houston played its third game Thursday night at home against Oregon State.

LSU held Middle Tennessee All-American senior forward Alysha Clark to 16 points after she averaged 27.5 points per game last season.

LSU coach Van Chancellor said the Lady Tigers’ defensive effort was “one of the greatest I’ve ever seen.”

“This is as happy as I have been with our team,” Chancellor said.

“This is such great strides from this game and this time last year.”

On the defensive front, sophomore forward Taylor Turnbow helped LSU’s effort with six de-

fensive rebounds. The Lady Tigers forced 28 turnovers, which led to 31 points.

“What happened to us last year with a young team, we didn’t take away anything,” Chancellor said.

“We didn’t realize Turnbow would do such a great job. She woke up today and played.”

Turnbow said stifling Middle Tennessee’s offense will be crucial to the team’s defensive performance this weekend and down the road.

“It was a mental game, being that they beat us the last two games we played them,” Turnbow said. “It was really team defense tonight.”

LSU junior guard Katherine DOUBLEHEADER, see page 10

THE DAILY REVEILLE

PAGE 8

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2009

VOLLEYBALL

Tigers’ comfort level high heading into senior weekend Team to face MSU, Bama in PMAC

By Andy Schwehm Sports Writer

A few years back, LSU volleyball coach Fran Flory instituted a circle huddle in which the team holds hands after practices as a way to keep her team’s attention.

She felt that in a circle, no one is more important than the next on the team and she wanted to instill that confidence in her players.

Years went by and the hand holding died out, but the circle remained. Then a few weeks ago, Flory said the players brought back the hand holding to show a sign of team unity.

It’s the little things like that hand holding which have shown the chemistry of this LSU team that may not have been so evident in years past.

That team unity and confidence has kept the No. 17 Tigers (22-5, 16-2) with a chance at gaining at least a share of the Southeastern Conference title for the first time since 1991. This weekend at the PMAC, they host Mississippi State (8-21, 4-14) and Alabama (8-20, 6-12).

Flory even admits she senses a different comfort level in these Tigers from teams she has coached in the past.

“This team truly believes in themselves,” Flory said. “I wouldn’t say that last year’s team

‘‘

‘We don’t want to play sloppy. We want to put on a good show for our seniors.’

Lauren Waclawczyk LSU sophomore libero

didn’t, but they didn’t have the level of experience this team has now ... When this group decides they are going to kick it in, they really kick it in.”

Sophomore libero Lauren Waclawczyk gave a lot of credit for that confidence to the team’s seniors, who will be honored this weekend.

“This year we know what we are capable of,” Waclawczyk said. “But it’s more than that. We know, and we believe in it. Our seniors are really pushing success and believing in what we have.”

LSU currently stands a half-match behind No. 10 Kentucky (26-2, 16-1) in the overall SEC standings and has already clinched the SEC West title.

While LSU sophomore middle blocker Michele Williams gave the politically correct answer and said the Tigers won’t be scoreboard watching hoping for a Kentucky loss, she said it’s natural to look back on the team’s two losses to Kentucky and wonder “what if.”

“Of course if you lose, it kills you because you want to win,” Williams said. “But it’s something you use to push forward to the next matches and say, ‘We

weren’t doing this, so this is what we need to do now.’”

Kentucky has three matches left in its SEC slate, beginning tonight against South Carolina.

The Wildcats then turn to play Florida on Sunday before a midweek match against Tennessee on Wednesday.

The Tigers will first turn their attention to Mississippi State, who defeated both Arkansas and Ole Miss last weekend.

“Mississippi State ... has something to play for in the end,” Flory said. “They have a chance to have one of their best finishes in a long time, and they are trying to find something to hang their hat on.”

LSU will host its final home match of the regular season on Sunday afternoon against Alabama on Senior Day. “Every Alabama versus LSU match is a war,” Flory said. “It’s a slugfest, and with the emotion of having that being senior night could be an interesting combination for us, so we have to do a good job of channeling that energy correctly.”

Waclawczyk said she is confident the team will take care of business on the court before the ceremonies after the match.

“We don’t want to play sloppy,” the sophomore said. “We want to put on a good show for our seniors’ last home game.”

Contact Andy Schwehm at aschwehm@lsureveille.com

SHAINA HUNTSBERRY / The Daily Reveille

Junior outside hitter Angela Bensend (5) and sophomore middle blocker Michele Williams (23) put up a double block on Nov. 1 against Auburn’s Kelly Fidero (11).

Friday, November 20, 2009

THE DAILY REVEILLE

PAGE 9

BASEBALL

Mainieri: Pitching proves deep, talented in exhibition Gold defeats Purple, takes 3-game series

By Andy Schwehm Sports Writer

LSU’s baseball team is going to be without Louis Coleman and a few other key senior arms in the bullpen heading into the 2010 season.

But after seeing the pitching performances by his players in this week’s Purple and Gold World Series, LSU coach Paul Mainieri isn’t too worried.

“Our pitching is going to be deeper than it was last year,” Mainieri said. “I don’t know if we are going to have anyone as good as Coleman, but we are clearly deeper in terms of quality arms.”

Pitching fueled the victory for the Yellow Dragons, who took Thursday’s match against the Purple Pirates, 5-3, and the overall Purple and Gold World Series, 2-0-1, with an 11-6 run differential.

Sophomore shortstop Austin Nola paved the way offensively for the Gold squad Thursday, going 2-for-2 with a run, RBI and a pair of walks.

The Baton Rouge native added on a pair of outstanding defensive plays ranging to the hole between short and third in the game.

“Nola is a heck of a player,” Mainieri said. “I wouldn’t trade him for anyone. Defensively, he is outstanding. A lot of people wanted to criticize him last year because he didn’t hit for high average, but he had some great bats last year ... He’s going to be a much better hitter this year because he’s got that year of experience under his belt.”

Sophomore southpaw Chris Matulis started Thursday for the Gold Dragons, going 3 2/3 innings while giving up two runs on two hits.

After giving up a pair of runs in the bottom of the first inning — one of which came from a single by senior first baseman Blake Dean — Matulis settled down in the second with a three-up, threedown inning. He wouldn’t look back from there.

Sophomore right-hander Joey Bourgeois finished off the game for the Dragons.

“Joey really came in and charged the mound and competed hard against those hitters,” Mainieri said. “He’s got some moxie about him. Not only that, but he has a great arm and a great breaking ball, and he’s going to help us.”

The Gold Dragons got the scoring started early with a run in the top of the first on a double

by Nola to score sophomore centerfielder Mikie Mahtook, who reached on a throwing error to start the game.

Purple junior starter Anthony Ranaudo settled down in the second inning with a three-up,

three-down performance with two strikeouts but gave up a pair of runs in the third that gave the Gold team a 3-2 lead.

Ranaudo finished the game with four strikeouts and three runs given up on two hits.

“Ranaudo wasn’t quite on,” Mainieri said. “He was pitching to a different catcher, and he never got into a good groove today.”

Pitching was at the forefront for both teams in the first two games of the series, as a total of nine combined runs were scored between the squads.

The Gold team took home a 5-2 victory in the first game thanks to junior catcher Micah Gibbs and sophomore shortstop Austin Nola’s two RBI apiece.

Junior right-hander Ben Alsup got the victory for the Gold team, limiting the Purple Pirates to one run in four innings with six strikeouts.

The second game ended in a 1-1 tie again in part because of strong pitching performances from both teams.

Purple team junior starter Austin Ross went four innings, allowing one run while striking out six, while Gold starter junior Daniel Bradshaw pitched three innings, allowing one run while striking out five.

Mainieri said he was pleased overall with how the series went.

“There were some things where you can see we have a lot of room for improvement,” Mainieri said. “We’ve got another five weeks of practice prior to our first game, and we will get Landry and Hanover back and become a better offensive team.”

MAGGIE BOWLES / The Daily Reveille

Contact Andy Schwehm at aschwehm@lsureveille.com

Sophomore southpaw Chris Matulis pitched Thursday for the gold team. The Gold Dragons defeated the Purple Pirates, 5-3, during the Purple and Gold World Series.

THE DAILY REVEILLE

PAGE 10

SWIMMING AND DIVING

Houston Invitational to begin Friday Tigers broke nine records during last UNO meet

By Amos Morale Sports Contributor

Coming off record-setting wins at the University of New Orleans, the LSU swimming and diving teams head to the Cougar Classic Fall Invitational in Houston on Friday. The Invitational lasts three days and features teams like Texas A&M, SMU, UNLV, Houston, Tulane, Kansas, Air Force and Incarnate Word.

The No. 15 Tigers (1-4) and No. 21 Lady Tigers (2-4) broke nine pool records at UNO their last time in the pool.

“It felt pretty good just thinking how we can go into a facility like that and wipe out some records,” said junior James Meyers. “Goals like that aren’t out of reach anymore.”

LSU junior Jane Trepp was one of the Lady Tigers who set a record at UNO. She broke a pool record in the 50-yard freestyle with a time of 23.29.

“The pool felt faster than it was,” Trepp said. “My time was decent. I wanted to go faster, but it’s OK. I’ve been really constant in the 50-yard freestyle. Hopefully, this week I’m

going to swim faster.”

The Tigers also picked up their first victory of the season against the Privateers.

“It definitely feels good after 0-4 to get that win in,” said senior Hannes Heyl.

LSU coach Adam Schmitt said he hopes his teams swim some fast times while in Houston.

“Considering how fast some of our athletes have already swum this season, I’m confident we will continue to swim fast and record more NCAA cuts and season bests in Houston.” Schmitt said in a news release. “Typically, our first invitational of the year in November yields great results for us.”

This is also the first time the LSU freshmen will swim in a meet of this format.

This meet has more events, including platform diving and features Prelims and Finals in each event.

“Certainly this will also be the first collegiate invitational for our freshmen,” Schmitt said. “So they’ll get to see what it’s like to swim at this level.”

Freshmen have been one of the most consistent groups for LSU this season.

Contact Amos Morale at amorale@lsureveille.com

GREEN, from page 7

Green made the switch in 2008 and has been entrenched in the role ever since. He said the transition was “crazy at first.”

“I was an All-State running back in high school on offense my whole life, and I came here as a wide receiver,” Green said. “I said, ‘OK, Coach, that’s cool.’ The most important thing was to get reps to get comfortable.”

It didn’t take Green long to find his niche in the Rebels’ secondary.

He started 12 games at cornerback and registered 32 tackles, a teamhigh six pass breakups and two interceptions in Nutt’s first season in 2008.

Green returned one of his interceptions for a 65-yard touchdown in Ole Miss’ 47-34 win against Texas Tech in the 2009 Cotton Bowl. He was named Defensive MVP of the game.

Bastrop coach Brad Bradshaw said reaching the end zone was something Green did quite often in his high-school career.

“Marshay is my favorite player I’ve ever coached because he’s the most competitive person I’ve ever coached,” Bradshaw said. “He scored 98 touchdowns in his career, but he scored every way you possibly score. The only thing he didn’t do was return a blocked field goal for a touchdown.”

Bradshaw said Green was easily the most popular person on the Bastrop team. Ole Miss senior wide receiver Dexter McCluster said his teammate’s enthusiasm and winning attitude is contagious.

“He’s real funny, man. He’s the clown,” McCluster said. “He keeps all of us laughing. Even outside of football, he always wants to challenge somebody no matter what it is.”

McCluster said Green brings an air of confidence to the Ole Miss defense, which ranks No. 12 in the nation in scoring defense and No. 23 in total defense.

“Coming from wide receiver, a person who’s used to getting the ball all his life, to going on defense and making a big impact, the transition has worked out for him,” McCluster said. “Cornerback is where he’s going to make his run. He brings that swagger to the defense we need.”

Green also gets his hands on the ball in his role as punt returner at Ole Miss. He is sixth in school history with 653 punt return yards, and he also has three punt returns for touchdowns.

Green finished first among freshmen in the Southeastern Conference in punt return average in 2006 with 11.2 yards per return. He was also first among SEC freshmen in kickoff return average with 25.2 yards per return.

Bradshaw said Green, at 5-feet-

Friday, November 20, 2009 9-inches and 175 pounds, can make his mark in the NFL as a kick returner and defensive back.

“There aren’t many 5-foot-8 and 5-foot-9 receivers in the NFL,” Bradshaw said. “Once he gets in an NFL camp, he’ll be hard for somebody to cut once they get to know him. When you get to know him, you see what size his heart is.”

Green, who was voted team captain this season, said he likes different things about playing on each side of the ball.

“The hardest part of my career was turning into a cornerback, but it worked out in my favor,” Green said.

“I’ll put it this way — I like playing defense better, but I like the ball in my hands also.”

Nutt said Green’s personality is also a valuable asset he brings to Ole Miss.

“He doesn’t have a bad day,” Nutt said. “He always has a smile on his face and loves to come to practice ... I’d take five or six Marshay Greens.”

Contact Rachel Whittaker at rwhittaker@lsureveille.com

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2009

THE DAILY REVEILLE

OXFORD, from page 1

afternoon, the Tigers began a streak of dominance in Oxford.

In 2000, the Tigers beat the Rebels, 20-9, behind LSU running back Dominic Davis’ 160 all purpose yards and two touchdowns.

The 2003 game, which LSU won 17-14 en route to a national championship, is remembered simply by the phrase, “Eli fell down.”

With less than two minutes remaining in the game, Ole Miss senior quarterback Eli Manning, playing in his final home game, dropped back to pass on a fourth-and-ten.

As he received the snap from under center, Manning dropped back and was tripped up by his own offensive lineman. The fall secured the victory and the eventual Southeastern Conference Western Division title for LSU. The next two games in 2005 and 2007 were routs, with LSU winning 40-7 and 41-24 respectively.

But this weekend’s game may prove to be a stiffer challenge for the Tigers with the Rebels’ recent offensive success.

Ole Miss found a groove offensively during its 42-17 win against Tennessee last Saturday.

The catalyst of that offensive outburst was senior offensive specialist Dexter McCluster, who lines up at both wide receiver, running back and even quarterback for the Rebels.

McCluster had 324 all purpose yards — tallying 282 of those on the ground — and four touchdowns against the Volunteers.

“I can just tell you that he has great speed,” Miles said. “He’s tough to touch, and he’s a physical runner as well. He’ll pound it up in there, so he’s a very talented runner.”

The biggest challenge for the

PAGE 11

presented to the national player of the year in women’s college basketGraham said Turnbow’s perfor- ball. mance will set the tone for the team Houston also won its first two defensively this weekend. games of the regular season against “[Turnbow] is a great post de- Gardner-Webb and Texas-Arlingfender with long ton on the road by arms,” Graham an average of 13 said. “She doesn’t points. like for anyone to The Cougars score.” averaged 67.4 LSU’s most points per game experienced player in 2008, but they had a quiet night were No. 161 in against Middle the nation in scorTennessee. ing defense, allowVan Chancellor Senior guard ing 62.8 points per Allison Hightower LSU women’s basketball coach game. left Wednesday’s Nicholls State game more than is the second inonce with leg cramps. Chancellor state school LSU will face this said Hightower will be fine, but he season. Chancellor is 10-0 against said he will have to “limit her” in Louisiana opponents during his practice. tenure with the Lady Tigers since “We are asking her to go down 2007. on the other end and beat the press,” LSU’s 73-point victory against Chancellor said. “Then ... every lit- Centenary, 92-19, is the secondtle play we run is run through her. largest margin of victory in proShe wants to practice all the time, gram history. play all the time.”

Hightower was named to the Contact Rachel Whittaker at preliminary watch list for the Nairwhittaker@lsureveille.com smith Trophy on Thursday, which is

DOUBLEHEADER, from page 7

‘‘

‘What happened to us last year with a young team, we didn’t take away anything.’

KIM FOSTER / The Daily Reveille

Safety Danny McCray chases down an Ole Miss player Nov. 22, 2008, during last years, 31-13, loss to Ole Miss in Tiger Stadium.

LSU defense will be to contain McCluster when he lines up at quarterback in Ole Miss’ version of the “Wildcat” offense, called the “Wild Rebel.”

“We just have to make tackles early and don’t let him get in a lot of space because that’s when he takes off,” said LSU junior safety Chad Jones. “If we get all 11 of us to the ball and corner him, we’ll be able to contain him,” The respect between the LSU defense and McCluster is mutual, though.

“LSU’s defense is physical, big and fast,” McCluster said.

“They’ll be a tough opponent, and we have to have everybody doing what they need to do on every play.”

Offensively, Miles said senior running back Keiland Williams will get an opportunity to be the feature back, but will still share some of the carries with sophomore running back Stevan Ridley.

“I felt like Keiland Williams and Stevan Ridley came back to replace Charles Scott and did so in a very strong fashion,” Miles said.

“I think they understand the position they’re in and look forward to playing big certainly in these next games.”

The Tiger offense appears to be healthy, as well.

Miles said Wednesday that sophomore quarterback Jordan Jefferson will return to the field after missing the Louisiana Tech game with an ankle injury, sophomore center T-Bob Hebert and senior tight end Richard Dickson will also play after missing time with injuries, according to Miles.

Following last season’s 31-13 loss to Ole Miss in Tiger Stadium, Jones said the team went into a tailspin, and they do not want a repeat of that this season.

“Last year, we kind of sunk,” Jones said. “But we’re standing strong this year, I believe, and we’re going to fight out to the end like we would if we had an undefeated season.”

Contact Rob Landry at rlandry@lsureveille.com

THE DAILY REVEILLE

Opinion

PAGE 12

OUR VIEW

Friday, November 20, 2009

If you’re heading to Ole Miss, don’t engage the Klan The Ku Klux Klan will be in full force Saturday on the Ole Miss campus.

While The Daily Reveille is in no way supportive of this hate group, we implore all LSU fans not to engage or converse with the robed ones.

The controversy sparked when Ole Miss Chancellor Dan Jones

removed “From Dixie with Love” from the Ole Miss band’s selection.

The traditional gameday song has a spot reserved for the Ole Miss student section to scream “The South will rise again,” becoming a staple of Rebel football for years. A resolution to replace the scream with the apparently less controversial “to hell with LSU” was never enacted.

The decision to ban the song arose the ire of the Mississippi White Knights of the Ku Klux Klan, whose grand titan Shane Tate, explained to The Daily Reveille by e-mail that they don’t mean to cause any problems.

“Trouble has already been caused by a handful at Ole Miss, including the black student body

president, who wants to shape Ole Miss into yet another liberal sodomite college,” Tate said.

However backward the Klan’s ideology is, we cannot stress how important it is for Tiger fans to represent the University with class and integrity. Our fans need not sink to this level, and we again implore our fans not to give Ole Miss a chance

to argue that the Klan is classier than LSU fans.

Please act with dignity, and don’t give Ole Miss a reason to denigrate our own liberal, sodomite college.

help to clean up Facebook a little — users will simply dislike a posting rather than trash-talking it’s author. I personally admire the true grassroots effort to create the dislike button, and I am a firm supporter of it. After all, that’s how you get things done.”

-Ben

able to go to any of her school activities. He also can’t accompany our daughter trick or treating or wear a hoodie on his head.

My husband’s crime? Her met a girl in a bar, exchanged e-mails with her and she sent him nude photos of

herself. She was 16.

He served his time and 5 years down the road he’s got a wife, a kid and a baby on the way. We are all being punished because some girl snuck into a bar.”

-sexoffenderswife

What do you think? Let your opinions be known on the comments section of lsureveille.com. Every column and article you find in The Daily Reveille’s print edition appears online with a comment section for your input. Log on today!

Contact the Editorial Board at editor@lsureveille.com

WEB COMMENTS As usual, readers on our Web site, lsureveille.com, had a lot to say about the columns appearing in the Opinion section this week.

Readers had this to say about opinion editor Matthew Albright’s column, “Holding prisoners in America a scary but necessary task”: “I don’t think you are seeing the whole story. It’s not just an emotional reaction to holding these prisoners in the USA, but if there is a mistrial or if they are acquitted, they are legally free to walk into the US populace.

Deportation takes time because they did not enter illegally, as the [government] actually brought them here.”

-Sorcha Clary Readers had this to say about columnist Eric Freeman’s column, “Farewell to Mayor Wonka and the Chocolate City,”: “I was also appalled when I read Blakely’s interview. I don’t know if I felt angrier at him for taking the position or at Nagin for wasting our time and money hiring him. Perhaps as Nagin tours the Mayan ruins, he’ll come up with a new plan. Because, honestly, they have a better chance of being revitalized than New Orleans under the leadership of Ray Nagin.”

-Renee Crowe Powers Readers had this to say about columnist Jack Johnson’s column, “Facebook’s ‘Dislike’ button is ridiculous proposition”: “First of all, stop complaining about the fall of journalism, because you’re only contributing to it by writing an article like this. Like the above poster said, you did a better job of arguing for your opposition then arguing your own point!

You describe the dislike button as if it will lead to the end of the world, when it won’t. The dislike button is simply the opposite of the like button, and nothing more. It may even

“Where’s the dislike button for this article?”

-GOB Readers had this to say about opinion editor Matthew Albright’s column, “Catholic Church’s objections to same-sex bill complex”: “Matthew, I think your article hit the nail on the head. I am Catholic and I understand your compromise and think its a good one. Lets hope the powers that be from both sides can see it as well. Although I am not surprised at the reactions to the issue, I do find it quite annoying when people condemn the Church for holding fast to a prime teaching but are willing to take the services offered. I find it amusing that the Church is the “evil empire” yet is the largest provider of charity. People have claimed that the Church has no business in secular affairs, as if faith and everyday life do not mix. But as soon as the funding is removed from the secular arena then its shame on the Church. Who’s being the hypocrite now?”

-Dave J But readers aren’t only watching the Opinion section. Readers had this to say about the news article “Jindal proposes laws against sex offenders”: “My husband is a sex offender.

We are lucky that our landlord lets us rent our house or we would be homeless. He lost his job over being a “sex offender” (he was a courier for flowers) and now I have to find a job to support us. Did I mention I’m 3 months pregnant? My husband can’t go to the park with our daughter or when she starts school he won’t be

THE DAILY REVEILLE Editorial Board NICHOLAS PERSAC JERIT ROSER ELLEN ZIELINSKI MATTHEW ALBRIGHT

Editor Managing Editor, Content Managing Editor, Production Opinion Editor

ERIC FREEMAN JR.

Columnist

MARK MACMURDO

Columnist

PAOLO’S PUZZLE

PAOLO ROY / The Daily Reveille

Log on to lsureveille.com and visit the Opinion section to see the answers to this week’s crossword puzzle.

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 “Don’t wake me for the end of the world unless it has very good special effects.”

Roger Zelazny American writer May 13, 1937 – June 14, 1995

THE DAILY REVEILLE

Friday, November 20, 2009

FREKE FRIDAY

Opinion

PAGE 13

‘2012,’ or how to make a reservation for Noah’s Ark For those who can’t wait for the Earth’s looming destruction in three years’ time, the future starts now in director Roland Emmerich’s aptly, ominously titled “2012.”

About 3,000 years ago, the Mayans, a highly developed but primitive civilization in the Southern American continent, predicted the world would end in 2012. They also foretold the American president would be an African American, but instead of orator Barack Obama, we get stuck with an inarticulate gray-haired Thomas Wilson (Danny Glover).

The Mayan civilization also had the good sense to die out rather than watch the film steal part of their history for blockbuster thuds and pyrotechnics.

It’s 1999, and Adrian Hemsley (Chiewetel Ejiofor), a special adviser to the president on scientific affairs, has discovered the Earth is heating up. Apparently, the neutrinos generated by the sun are

causing the Earth’s core to melt.

This could upset the Earth’s magnetic stability, triggering a trend of events capable of swishing the planet. President Wilson, Hemsley and world leaders then begin a plan to build ships to safeguard the best of the human species.

The ships are built in China, where Freke Ette labor is cheap Columnist and the government has no qualms squashing internal opposition to the project.

A side story involves failed science fiction writer Jackson Curtis (John Cusack) and his attempt to board the ships. Along the way Curtis butts heads with his wife, her plastic surgeon boyfriend, his children and several federal agents monitoring Yellowstone National Park.

Aesthetically pleasing and jarring in equal measure, “2012” replaces stunt work with computer-generated graphics and blazing, leading music by Harold Kloser, yet skips on rapidly edited MTVstyle shots — Michael Bay’s preferred technique — in favor of a steady composition. Emmerich fancily captures the melee in the background, whether it’s frenetic passengers waiting to occupy the ship or the careening automobiles smashing into each other as the Golden Gate bridge snaps. Nevertheless, it’s asking a lot from the audience to believe a car could drive on disintegrating tarmac or a plane take off from a fractured runway then fly between collapsing skyscrapers.

Five years ago, in his film “The Day After Tomorrow,” Emmerich presented a scenario in which climatologist Terry Rapson posited the coming of a new Ice Age. It means in the space of a decade,

the Earth will be destroyed both by fire and ice — talk of a filmmaker blowing hot and cold.

Several questions are flimsily tossed by “2012.” If the United States is going to be swallowed by a giant earthquake on Christmas Day, should the public be informed? One character argues it is sometimes necessary to hide the truth from the public to preserve society from descending to chaos.

Another disagrees, feeling giving people the information and letting them help each other “is what makes us human.”

Secondly, to secure a spot on the ship is about the same amount an alumnus needs to obtain LSU Tiger season tickets: merely $1 billion a pop. This seems like a form of natural selection by balance sheet. Yet Hemsley disagrees and demands everyone who can should get on board. So what criterion should be used in choosing people to be saved from a cataclysm?

Should it be race, lottery, finances or intellect? To posit, like Hemsley does, the public should be allowed on the ships is naïve. Regardless of the basis, there’ll be some form of discrimination in determining the chosen few.

The difference between fiction and reality is manifest in “2012.”

For those who survived hurricanes Katrina and Rita but saw lives lost and property submerged, the film seems the work of an armchair philosopher, a person unconcerned with how many people are sacrificed as long as his audience bellows in satisfaction.

Freke Ette is a political theory graduate student from Uyo, Nigeria. Follow him on Twitter@ TDR_fette.

Contact Freke Ette at fette@lsureveille.com

EAT LESS LEARN MORE

Escapism raises concerns about mindset of society We are a nation of escapists.

Escapism is the avoidance of reality by absorption of and the obsession with media, like entertainment or possibly substances.

My question is: What is so wrong with the lives of so many people that there is a need to “escape” the reality in which they live?

J.K. Rowling is worth about $1 billion. How did she acquire such fortune? She wrote books about a teen wizard destined to save the world.

How did Paris Hilton acquire a net worth of about $7 million (excluding daddy’s gratuitous wealth)? I don’t actually know, but I think it’s just a result of her “popularity” and appearances on “reality” TV. Online games like World of Warcraft and Habbo Hotel have upward of 7 million subscribers.

So what? Well, it’s high time we as a society examined the success of some of these industries.

In WoW, players run around as various races of characters like gnomes or night elves fighting other mythical creatures. The game has become “real” for a large number of users. I’ve heard of users with strong characters and lots of virtual money selling their accounts for thousands of dollars. I want to emphasize the fact that, without access to a computer, the account is as useful as Paris Hilton’s intellect.

Millions of people are spending billions of dollars to “escape” reality in other ways. The financial success pornography enjoys is very hazy, but it’s estimated between $2 billion and $4 billion.

That’s a lot of money spent to watch other people have sexual experiences.

The total revenue of NFL, NBA and MLB is approximately $15.4 billion. Once again, a ridiculous amount of money spent to watch other people do things.

From what does this willingness to pay for entertainMatthew ment spring?

Lousetau Is it centered Columnist on an aspiration but inability to participate in sex, spell casting, gnome killing or slam dunking?

I played football in sixth grade, and my team was undefeated. I quit the next year because I didn’t feel like exercising so much.

I like football, but I invest little of anything in it.

I enjoy watching sports matches as much as and maybe more than the average sports fan, but I’ve attended one professional sporting event in my entire life. I spent my first two years at LSU in our terrific band, so I didn’t have to pay for student tickets. This year I don’t have tickets, and on Saturday I enjoy a trip to campus to see friends then relax in my apartment for kickoff.

That said, I can sincerely say my observation of sports or participation in media like video games or movies is strictly for entertainment. My life is currently centered on my occupations as a student.

A trip down Bob Petit Boulevard on a Friday morning reveals

wise choices of some Tiger Land participants. There are quite a number of abandoned cars parked in the parking lots of the various bars, and it shows people made semi-conscious decisions not to drive drunk. Good job, but why be so drunk?

Yes, I’ve had alcohol before.

Yes, I’ve been inebriated enough to vomit before. Why? Without thought my initial answer is: “It’s fun.” But after thinking, I can’t

think of a viable reason to be that intoxicated. A beer or two to lighten the mood is pleasant and tasty, but why do “beverages” that violate the palette like Natty Light or Everclear even exist? Just to get drunk.

School is hard, but it’s not like a terminal illness. Existing in this reality is not that bad, I promise.

Play football yourself or soberly shoot the bull with friends.

You probably won’t kill brain

cells or get so emotionally caught up in a game that you punch somebody — this time in the real world.

Matthew Lousteau is a 20-yearold mechanical engineering junior from LaPlace. Follow him on Twitter @ TDR_mlousteau.

Contact Matthew Lousteau at mlousteau@lsureveille.com

BEST AND WITTIEST

cartoon courtesy of KING FEATURES SYNDICATE

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Part time (20-30 hrs). Afternoons preferred. Longterm position. Fax resume to 293-8954 or email greggouner@bellsouth.net.

►►BARTENDING UP TO NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY. TRAINING PROVIDED. AGE 18+ OK 1-800-965-6520 ext127

Gift Wrapper positions available at The Royal Standard during Nov & Dec. Apply in Person at 16016 Perkins Road or Call 225.751.0009 Earn Extra Money Students needed ASAP. Earn up to $150 per day being a mystery shopper. No Experience Required Call 1-800-722-4791 Senior Programmer/GIS Analyst (Master’s or equiv. degree with 1 year experience or Bachelor’s or equiv. degree with 6 years experience or suitable qualifications) ñ Baton Rouge, LA. Job entails and requires experience in: providing data management solutions; developing applications using Microsoft.

NET Framework, and developing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) based applications using ESRI ArcGIS, ASP. NET, ADO. NET, C#, VB, SQL Server, TSQL/Stored Procedures, HTML, CSS, XML, JavaScript and MS Visio; devising customized (GIS) tools; implementing data visualization using GIS; planning projects using MS Visio; and writing technical documents and user manuals for software. Send resumes to HR, VoterVOICE, LLC. 5615 Corporate Blvd. Ste 300B, Baton Rouge, LA 70808 The Paula G. Manship YMCA is now hiring for a fitness attendant for the following hours: M-T 5am-12pm, F 5am-9am, and Sat mornings. Please contact Rebecca Solomon at 225-767-9622 or rsolomon@ ymcabatonrouge.org P/T Receptionist / File Clerk needed for small BR law firm. Must be mature, dependable, responsible, able to get along with others, and MUST be able to work AFTERNOONS. Salary DOE. Prefer undergraduate, long-term worker (at least one year), not just one semester. Interest in law or law school goal desired.

Email Resume’ and availability to LadyJayne@aol.com or fax: 756-5676 Don’t Miss This Opportunity!

Now hiring for all positions at the following locations: JEFFERSON 7615 Jefferson Hwy Baton Rouge 70809 PERKINS ROWE 7707 Bluebonnet Blvd. Baton Rouge 70810 “Flexible schedules & Benefits for Full Time Associates” Please apply in person during regular restaurant hours.

Equal Opportunity Employer WINDOWS and LINUX Want to use your Windows and Linux skills? We’re looking for a Windows and/ or Linux sysadmin intern or part-time employee. Send resume and hours available to jobs@puryear-it.com.

Customer Service Representativ 20 hours per week e-mail resume to jobs@aum1.com MD Technologies Inc. a BR based medical technology co, is seeking a highly energetic & motivated

we want you! *Hard Workers* *Awesome People Skills* *Looking for “real world” business experience* Work on campus for LSU Student Media! Sales experience a plus but not required. Apply in B39 Hodges Hall or send resumes to salesmanager@ lsureveille.com Survey Takers Needed: Make $5-25 per survey. www. GetPaidToThink.com Multinational company expandin in capital area.

Seeking to build local team. Experience in sales/ market/ training helpful, not required. PT/ FT. Email resume to newcareerpath2009@hotmail.com

For Sale Tiger Manor Condominiums. UNITS READY FOR SPRING 2009!! Reserve now! Brand new 1, 2, and 3 bedroom units for sale starting at $124,900. Ask about our Guaranteed Buy-Back Program!! 3000 July St. 225-346-5055 www.tigermanor.com Location. Location. Location... Start Living.

House 4 Sale $132,500 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2 car garage, 7 min. from LSU located off Burbank on Pecan Tree Drive 225-803-537

For Rent

WALK TO CLASS 1BR at 3265 Carlotta $395/mth 379-8653 Apts For Rent 2br & 3br units aval. Zero Dep from Nov to Dec 1. Baker, La. www.greenwoodllc.net 877.824.7565 Tiger Manor Condominiums. UNITS READY FOR SPRING 2009! 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.

Chateau du Cour in tigerland Large 2 BR 1 B in gated complex..772-2429 mckproperties.com Garden District Bungalow Unique 2 bedroom, 1 bath garden district bungalow. Ideal for grad couple or faculty. $1000/month. Available Dec 1.

225.270.2825 ROOM FOR RENT @ BRIGHTSIDE Room for rent @ The Gates at Brightside. 1 Bedroom with bathroom attached in one of the nicest complexes on Brightside.

New appliances/ balcony/ pool/ gated community and is located on the LSU bus route. Rent is $600 and utility costs are split equally. Plenty of closet space in room and bathroom. November is already paid! 401.575.8627 Condo For rent 2Br/2.5 Ba condo for rent. Near Bluebonnet & Perkins. $970/month + utilities. Call Erin.

225.288.4506 225.288.4506 WalK To Campus 1Br, 2Br, and Townhomes. Starting as low as $400.00. www.lsuwestchimesplace. com 225.346.4789 LSU, TIGER PARK APT, 1&2BR Townhouse & flat, woodfloor, pool, busline, move-in special, $450-625/ mo., 225.615.8521 ROOMATE NEEDED LAKE BEAU PRE TOWNHOMES 550/mo + util. 3br/3ba. Close to campus. Trey 337.349.0376 1BR apartment 175 Burgin Ave, $545$589rent/$400 deposit, located Highland and Lee. 225.252.3163 Highland Village Condo 2 BR/ 21/2 BA, 1 block south LSU gate, all appliances, W/ D, sec. syst., pool. $950/ Mon 225.766.5863 3BD/2BA HOME OFF BRIGHTSIDE @ 5037 AMBERALYNN DR $1550.00/ MONTH 5 MIN TO CAMPUS 225.276.0393

Roommate Wanted

5252 Brightside View 3BR 2 BATH W/D $950 avail now/spring 955-6480southlandpropertiesinc. com

Roomate needed Arlington Plant $500/mo plus utilities (usually $65) 3Bed/3Bath. Near Campus, Bus-Route, Preferably Male. Darren 504-382-5603

BRIGHTSIDE PARK TOWNHOMES 2 br 2.5 bath on S. Brightside View. $850-$900. $500 dep. All appliances plus w/d, pool. now/spring.southlandpropertiesinc.com. 225-955-6480

1 male roommate needed in a 4 bdrm 4 bth apt. on Brightside. $505. monthly; share electric bill; sublease; 601.798.5005

Sublease 1 br apt. $740 Starting Jan. 1in Tiger Plaza, Cable/Internet Incl, W/D, Gated, LSU bus route jessica2869@hotmail.com 2BR/2BA CONDO for Rent! In LSU area, large with vaulted ceilings! Email sarahkate5688@gmail.com or call 318.347.1224 318.347.1224

$400/mo incl. utilities 2 Fully furn. rooms in a quiet 3bed/1bath house 3 blocks off campus. Avail.

Jan. 1st. Pets welcome. 225.330.2305 N Roommate Needed!!!

Female roommate needed. Partially furnished 2100 sq. ft. condo. 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths.

504.722.1372 University View Condo female roommate for

spring semester 2010. rent $450 +share of utilities. call Katie 281.468.7237 Roommate Needed @ Campus Crossing-Brightside, for Spring 2010. $505 monthly, 4bed/4bath, sublease; contact 832.221.6026 ROOMMATE NEEDED @ Campus Crossing- Brightside for Spring 2010! $424/mo. 4 BR/ 2 BA, email kjudd2@gmail.com or call 504.298.9494 Roommate needed @ Burbank Commons for Spring 2010. 4BR/ 2BA $409/month +share of utilities.

Email hmill14@lsu.edu or call Haley 337.529.6364 337.529.6364

Miscellaneous Rugby Prop on Tigerland Bus Tuesday, 4PM on the Tigerland bus. You got on and we kept catching each other staring. I was also trying to remember where I knew you from... I went to a Rugby game last year. I was the girl reading with my stuff in the seat next to me. If there was some interest, email me. msansm99@yahoo.com Big fish nice frat guy looking for a sweet girl to hang out with. Must be into wearing oversized shirts with fish on the back, running shorts with tights, and not brushing your hair. If you’re out there come find me, i’ll be at the lakes with my dog on Friday afternoon.

Look for my boat shoes and khakis! fratboyneedslovin@gmail.com

Friday, November 20, 2009

WELL HEY!! I’m a government worker thats tight with Supriya. I like CMT, cardigans, texting, New Iberia, SVU, being the center of attention, and Sig Ep. I hate it when everybody’s tryna be me. So if you’re interested in a lil’ cajun cutie that looks good in camp counselor shorts email me your A/S/L at thelittlebread@gmail.com.

“Le petit pan!”

Imperfections are in all of us, I’m just trying to find an 18-20 y/o girl who understands that... about herself, email me at lessthanhumble@gmail.com SASSY (3rd cheerleader from the right/your left) You are my favorite cheerleader. Your fantastic moves at the game this weekend and sassy attitude warm my heart. There’s room for 2 in my LSU snuggie ;) Email me: snuggiewithmelsu@gmail.com Arachibutyrophobia? Let me help. I see you at the climbing gym, the dining hall and bio review. Tell me: do you see me too?

You can see me by the bike racks Tuesday after bio review.

Let’s Play! Fit/very active male, 22. Looking for a Female to run around with! (running the lakes, tennis, basketball, etc) No need to be a super athlete, willing to teach, but must have a positive attitude, good sense of humor, and be comfortable getting a little sweaty. Email: ilikerunaroundmuch@gmail.com when you’re ready to play Are you a redhead girl? A guy looking for a cute / sexy redhead to spend time with. Email - NeedARedhead@live.com Freakishly Tall Guy wanted : Well endowed 20 yr old is tired of wearing flats. Facial hair is awesome but not necessary. Must like football. Send a message to blueeyedsaintsfan@yahoo.com

Friday, November 20, 2009

THE DAILY REVEILLE

PAGE 15 TICKETS, from page 1

staff were offered a ticket pre-sale.

Davis said he doesn’t have specific data from the University sales, but is happy with the response.

Herb Vincent, associate vice chancellor for university relations and senior associate athletic director, said the Athletic Department had a few preliminary meetings with Festival Productions to discuss matters like setup and procedures.

Many of the same traffic procedures and personnel used for football games will be utilized for the festival at the promoter’s expense, he said.

Not all of the seats in Tiger Stadium will be sold — the setup will have one stage in the north end of the stadium, which will block seating behind and on the sides of the stage, Vincent said.

The Athletic Department is trying to secure the proper licensing to sell alcohol in Tiger Stadium during the festival, Vincent said.

Vincent said the Athletic Department plans to use a protective floor to cover the field during the event.

Davis said Festival Productions plans to promote the event on a regional and national scale, advertising across the South with television, radio, Internet and print advertisements.

“No one else in the country will have a country festival like this,” he said. “[The Festival] was on the front page of the Life section in the USA Today.”

The festival marks Swift’s first stadium festival, one of the last times to see Brooks & Dunn in concert — they plan to retire after their 2010 tour — and one of the only times to see Chesney in 2010 — Davis said.

In addition to the festival, Davis said his company is considering free, smaller stages outside the stadium for the “tailgate.”

“There is a lot of interest in the country music industry [for the festival] — a lot of people want to be a part of this,” he said.

Contact Steven Powell at spowell@lsureveille.com

GREEN LIGHT, from page 1

Alvarez attributed the early completion to the 2005 half-cent sales tax, which allowed the Green Light Project to be funded by a series of bonds instead of being paid for one at a time.

Holden said this project will alleviate congestion and open up two of the most used roadways in Baton Rouge. Mike Walker, East Baton Rouge Parish mayor-pro temp, said the Green Light Plan will help Baton Rouge’s economy.

“Every time we cut a ribbon, that is an economic stimulus that’s been completed,” Walker said.

Walker said each construction project allows more and more construction workers to get paychecks, have money to spend, generate sales taxes and stimulate the economy.

“People do not need to fear that with the failure of the [latest] bond, our economy won’t get better,” Walker said. “It will because of the Green Light Plan ... [and] the Sewer Improvement Program.”

Contact Mary Walker Baus at mwbaus@lsureveille.com

Friday, November 20, 2009

THE DAILY REVEILLE

PAGE 16