Graphic by Jacob Chastant
ONE-TWO PUNCH
LSU gymnastics set to host Oklahoma on the sport’s biggest stage
BY ETHAN STENGER Sports Editor
Throughout the 2024 season, it felt almost inevitable that LSU would have to get past Oklahoma to get over the top and win the program’s first-ever NCAA championship.
The two sides were only one afternoon away from meeting face-to-face, both looking to punch their ticket to Saturday in the semifinals.
The judges tallied up the final scores as the gymnasts make their way to the center of the floor. The athletes were nervous. Some had been training for a chance to go to a national championship their entire lives.
But of all the teams, none are more nervous collectively than the Sooners.
Oklahoma had spent most of what had become a historic year at No. 1 and the favorite to be the first gymnastics program to three-peat since Georgia’s dominant half-decade run from 2005 to 2009.
Once the scores come in, it was over; the dream of a threepeat is dead.
“It wasn’t as we scripted it, but we take great pride in winning, and we’re going to take great pride in losing,” Sooners head coach K.J. Kindler said. “They fought back hard, and it was emotional, and I give them all the credit for gutting it out through the end.”
It only took one uncharacteristically bad vault rotation to derail Oklahoma’s season of destiny completely.
“They were trying to put everything into it,” Kindler said. “I’m so proud of the way they bounced back. This is an incredible team, and we’ll live to flip another day.”
Meanwhile, LSU, who spent most of their season living in the Sooners’ shadow, went on to advance. Thanks to a clutch-time, championship-clinching beam routine from Aleah Finnegan, the Tigers slayed their demons en route to hanging a banner in the rafters.
Now, the 2024 NCAA championship banner will hang from above as No. 1 Oklahoma, back this season with a vengeance, and No. 2 LSU, the defending national champions, prepare to take the floor together on Friday night.
But the banner is more than a backdrop; it represents how we got here.
In collegiate sports, winning NCAA championships is every program’s goal. By winning a national championship, schools benefit from increased applications, enrollment, financial gain and recruiting prowess– to the victor go the spoils.
The Tigers had been knocking on the door of an NCAA championship for the past decade, with their first secondplace finish coming back in 2014.
However, LSU gymnastics was founded in 1975; the program had been searching for a national championship for nearly half a century.
When the Tigers finally got over the hump last year, it placed the program at the top of the list of the country’s top transfers and recruits.
LSU head coach Jay Clark and their coaching staff recruited Kailin Chio and Kaliya Lincoln, two freshmen who have made a significant impact when placed into the lineup this year.
Over the past two weeks of action, Chio has landed back-toback SEC Freshman of the Week
awards to make it her fourth on the season.
I think just the way she goes about her business inside and outside of the gym is really inspiring, and something that’s really cool to see,” Chio’s fellow Tiger teammate Haleigh Bryant said. “As a freshman, we talk about kind of knowing your process, and I think she knows her process very well.”
Suddenly, Oklahoma’s one vault rotation, the one blemish on its near-perfect season, has set up LSU to stand up to college gymnastics’ latest and greatest dynasty.
“We’re LSU Tigers, and we’re staying here,” Clark said at the team’s championship ceremony last April. “This is just getting started.”
Could the Tigers become the sport’s darling? The program still has a lot of catching up to do, but step one should be beating Oklahoma head-to-head on Friday night.
The PMAC consistently holds one of the world’s loudest gymnastics crowds, with an average of nearly 13,000 fans shoved into the building in 2024, the best number in the nation.
On Friday night, Tiger fans will pack the PMAC with their purple and gold to witness a historic heavyweight fight right in front of their eyes.
In one corner, you have No. 2 LSU, a program looking to prove that last year’s magical run wasn’t just magic and establish themselves as college gymnastics’ team to beat going forward.
Sitting on the opposing side are the visiting No. 1 Sooners, the six-time national champions looking to kill off any hope of a gymnastics dynasty in Baton Rouge before it even begins.
This ranks among the most highly-anticipated matchups in the history of the sport.
“We’re not the six-time national championship team,” Clark said. “We’re the Cinderella story of last year. We’re not the gold standard over the last decade. That’s somebody else right now. So our mindset has to remain the same as it has for the previous couple of years.”
While Clark has acknowledged the meeting of the top two teams in the country, he says that it doesn’t account for his team’s preparation during the week.
“We have to stay focused on what we do,” Clark said. “There’s no defense. There’s not some way we’re going to get up emotionally for this that’s going to give us an advantage over anybody. It’s just not how it works in our sport.”
But nobody can ignore what a No. 1 versus No. 2 showdown means for a growing sport like college gymnastics.
The nation’s two best programs will be shown performing live on national TV, under the lights, on the sport’s biggest stage and in a building known for holding one of the most breathtaking live gymnastics atmospheres on planet Earth.
How could you possibly not appreciate that?
“I think it’s fantastic for college gymnastics,” Clark said. “It’s rare you get an opportunity for a one versus two matchup in any sport during a regular season like this.”
So, on Friday night, ensure you’ve found a place to settle in for all the can’t-miss action.
It’s not very often that a show of this magnitude moseys its way into town.
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GABRIELLA GUILLORY / The Reveille
LSU gymnastics all-around sophomore Konnor Mcclain jumps on the beam during the LSU 198.000-197.175 win against Missouri on Jan. 31 at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center in Baton Rouge, LA.
GABRIELLA GUILLORY / The Reveille
LSU gymnastics all-around freshman Kailin Chio throws her hands up for the crowd before the LSU 198.000-197.175 win against Missouri on Jan. 31 at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center in Baton Rouge, LA.
SPORTS
GYMNASTICS
Catch up on LSU so far this season
BY GABBY GRAY Staff Writer
Before No. 2 LSU gymnastics takes on No. 1 Oklahoma on Friday night, here are the Tigers’ most notable moments before running head-first into the PMAC.
The arena is responsible for some of the best highlights thus far, with a home attendance record of 13,515 fans as LSU defeated No. 3 Florida, 197.550-197.450.
While competing against the Gators, Tigers gymnast Aleah Finnegan matched her personal best on vault this season – which was set in the season opener against Iowa State—scoring a 9.950.
FAMILY MATTERS
Aleah Finnegan takes storied family to new heights with a smile
BY TYLER HARDEN Staff Writer
To those around Aleah Finnegan, it’s rare not to see a smile on her face.
“She’s just one of my all-time favorite athletes that I’ve ever raised,” said Al Fong, one of Finnegan’s former club gymnastics coaches at Great American Gymnastics Express Gymnastics. “She’s a joy to be around, a joy to coach.”
For Finnegan, it’s hard not to wear a smile during competitions. Her gymnastics career brings joy to both her and her family, especially at LSU.
The Finnegan name is familiar in Baton Rouge. Aleah’s older sister, Sarah, was arguably one of the best gymnasts to come through the LSU gymnastics program during her career from 2016-19.
Sarah finished with 23 AllAmerican honors for her career, the second most in school history, and was the fourth gymnast to win multiple national championships with the program and the only two-time NCAA bars champion ever at LSU.
It was time for Aleah to compete at the collegiate level three years later. Despite the new head coach, Jay Clark, taking the job for the Tigers, where else could she go other than LSU?
“Aleah wanted to follow her
big sister,” Fong said. “From there, she took off and went to even greater heights than Sarah did.”
Those great heights came in the form of a National Championship, where Finnegan secured the title with a 9.950 beam routine.
She stuck the landing with a smile—and tears of joy and relief.
Several accolades came Finnegan’s way in LSU’s title season. But as many of her teammates also do, she refused to give herself credit. Instead, she accredits her coaches and teammates around her for success.
“You’re doing it for the 21 girls that are screaming around you,” Finnegan said.
Just when Finnegan was presented with a life-changing moment, another opportunity was set to arrive within three months.
At the 2023 World Championships in Antwerp, Belgium, Finnegan qualified for the 2024 Summer Olympics as an individual. However, despite being born in St. Louis, Missouri, Finnegan didn’t plan on representing the United States in Paris.
Instead, she represented the Philippines, which the International Gymnastics Federation approved in May 2022. Her sister, Hannah, also represented the Philippines at the 2011
Southeast Asian Games.
Finnegan had only her family on her mind while on the biggest of stages in gymnastics.
“It’s such a special opportunity to be able to represent my mom and her family and our heritage,” Finnegan said.
Finnegan’s mother, Linabelle, was born in the Philippines. At 18, she moved to the United States as a college student.
With the sacrifice Finnegan knew her mother made at a young age, she was proud to represent her mother’s home country on the brightest stage.
“Just going into a completely different country at 18, younger than I am now, it’s kind of hard for me to wrap my head around,” Finnegan said. “So to be able to give back to her, give back to my family and get back to my roots, it’s really special.”
Finnegan was one of three Filipina-Americans to compete at the 2024 Olympics. In the competition, she finished 47th in the all-around and 17th on vault, the highest vault place for a Filipina gymnast at the Olympic games.
While Finnegan didn’t place as high as she had hoped, representing her family, friends, teammates, coaches, and school was enough for her.
For those she represents, it was enough for them, too.
“One of my best friends representing the Philippines, her
country, her mom’s home... it was just so cool,” Haleigh Bryant said in an interview with ESPN. “It’s something she’s dreamed about since she was a little girl.”
Now, Finnegan and her LSU team have a new mountain to climb. So far, this 2025 season, she’s helped them get pretty far.
She started the season with a bang, scoring 9.90 or higher in each event during the team’s opening meet against Iowa State.
“That may be the best four for four I’ve seen her put togeth er,” Clark said. “Everything was clean; everything was good.”
Finnegan currently leads the team with the highest floor score of the season with a 9.975, the second-highest vault score on the team with a 9.950 and the fourth-highest beam score on the team, with a 9.925.
But just as it always has, a new opportunity is in front of Finnegan and her team: the chance to dethrone No. 1 Okla homa in front of the Tiger faith ful at the PMAC.
Just as she has in the past, Finnegan hopes to have a hand in doing that, all while wearing a smile.
Yet, Finnegan hasn’t been able to outdo herself, and fans have seen a recent decline in her vault scores over the past few weeks with a 9.750 in a loss to Arkansas, a 9.925 against Missouri and most recently a 9.825 against No. 14 Alabama.
However, LSU head coach Jay Clark continues to defend these scores, given what Finnegan has brought to the Bayou over the past few years, including last year’s national championship title.
“With what Aleah Finnegan has done for this program,” Clark said. “She’s allowed to have a routine or two where she’s not at her best.”
As the Olympian continues to grow, she grows alongside her
see PERFORMANCE, page 9
“Best athlete in the universe,” said Armine Barutyan, another of Finnegan’s club gymnastics coaches at GAGE Gymnastics.
MADALYN CUNNINGHAM/ The Reveille
GABRIELLA GUILLORY / The Reveille LSU gymnastics all-around senior KJ Johnson accepts the crown after a successful vault jump during the LSU 198.000-197.175 win against Missouri on Jan. 31 at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center.
NEWS REINSTATED
LSU law professor will return to
BY JASON WILLIS Managing Editor
A district court judge ruled Tuesday to issue a temporary restraining order that will allow a suing LSU law professor to return to his teaching duties.
Ken Levy, a tenured professor of criminal and constitutional law, was barred from teaching and placed on paid leave on Jan. 18 due to political and profane comments made during a lecture. He sued days later, alleging his freedom of speech and right to due process were violated.
Nineteenth Judicial District Court Judge Tarvald Smith said he made his decision in part because being challenged by opposite beliefs is an essential part of law school.
“Law school invites debate,”
How could Trump’s tariffs affect LSU?
BY AIDAN ANTHAUME Staff Writer
How Could Trump’s Proposed Tariffs Affect Louisiana and LSU?
President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China are set to take full effect next month, and an expert at LSU is expecting raised prices on housing, vehicles and essential goods.
While framed as a tool to curb illegal immigration and the flow of fentanyl, the primary function of a tariff is economic. Tariffs impose a tax on imported goods at the border, raising costs for foreign producers and potentially for American consumers.
“Generally, however, foreign producers only receive the original cost of the good, the government receives the revenue from the tariff and domestic producers raise their cost to match the cost of the foreign good plus the tariff,” said Daniel Tirone, an associate professor of political science at LSU specializing in international relations and political economy.
“For example, a 25% tariff on a good that was originally $100 would result in consumers paying $125 for a domestically or foreignproduced good,” said Tirone, who
Smith said.
teaching classes
In her closing argument, Levy’s attorney Jill Craft said LSU’s removal of Levy has caused a chilling effect among LSU professors and students.
“There is no more critical right to the public than the unfettered right to speech,” Craft said.
LSU’s lawyer, Jimmy Faircloth Jr., said Levy has been dealt no harm since he has no right to teach and hasn’t been stripped of salary or access to the law school. LSU said it plans to appeal to stay the restraining order.
The second day of the hearing featured testimonies from LSU President William F. Tate IV, Law School Dean Alena Allen, as well as professors and students, among others.
Tate testified that the deci-
sion to remove Levy came solely from him after seeing a transcript of what he said in class.
“The totality of it was over a line that I would expect to see in a law classroom or any classroom at LSU,” Tate said. “I would do the same thing again if I saw the same rhetoric in another classroom.”
Tate said he was originally made aware of the comments by an anonymous, physical complaint, prompting him to authorize an investigation, which LSU said was “halted” by the motion for a temporary restraining order.
In her testimony, Allen said that when she initially met with Levy to bring concerns about the comments, the representation he gave of what happened differed dramatically from what students she spoke with said.
“There was a credibility gap, and I tended to believe the students,” Allen said.
Tate later said he wasn’t aware of any allegations that Levy had lied, and that it didn’t play a factor in his decision.
Levy’s team also contested that he was dishonest about his comments.
An LSU lawyer was also
Conservative comedian jokes with, debates students about top issues
BY LIV TEES Staff Writer
Alex Stein, LSU alumnus, comedian and right-wing tour de force, hosted a talk night oncampus, encouraging students to engage in conversations on hot topic issues such as DEI, transgender rights, immigration laws and victimhood on Monday.
Stein’s “Step Up, Speak Out” college tour, hosted by Turning Point USA, kicked off Monday in Baton Rouge. The tour aims to allow Stein the opportunity to constructively spar with students who may hold less conservative beliefs and who he believes are not educated enough on these topics.
“I’m trying to talk about subjects that students don’t know are politically incorrect,” Stein said. “How are we ever going to have a dialogue if we’re afraid to talk about tough situations?”
Stein graduated from LSU and ventured to Los Angeles to pursue a career in comedy, later returning home to Dallas. During COVID-19, Stein attended local government meetings and spoke out against lies he said were propagated by politicians, for whom he has little respect, regardless of political party.
“Idolizing a politician is like thinking a stripper actually likes you,” Stein said to the audience of jaw-dropped students.
Stein’s confidence and whip -
lash-worthy remarks are an ode to the confidence he gained as a student at LSU. In a sea of 50,000 students, Stein said the key to success is learning to stand out in a crowd and make your voice heard.
As quickly as topics were introduced, they were replaced by the next pressing concern. However, the star of the show was DEI programs and the controversy surrounding their
removal from the federal government. Elementary education sophomore Gabriela DeJean expressed fear that her job opportunities may be at risk without DEI initiatives.
“It’s an unjust system and sets us up for disaster,” DeJean said. “Without the guidelines of DEI initiatives, it opens the door to rampant racism.”
thrown out of the courtroom during Tuesday’s proceedings for violating a sequestration order and relaying secret information to a witness.
Since the restraining order is only a preliminary injunction, Smith tentatively scheduled another hearing to review whether the order will be permanent on May 19.
RESEARCH
LSU carbon research enters final stage
After eight years of investigation and discovery, LSU researchers have one last chance to collect hurricane data before their NASA grant expires.
“This will actually be our last shot at catching some of this,” said Kanchan Maiti, professor and chair of the LSU Department of Oceanography & Coastal Sciences. “It is a game of chance, and that’s what makes it tricky.”
Maiti’s work focuses on the carbon cycle, specifically the transport and exchange of carbon between different interfaces in coastal and deep ocean systems. She said everything they do regarding carbon dioxide is to understand what people can or shouldn’t do to reduce it in the atmosphere, meaning it’s important to always know where it is going.
“Ultimately, our goal for all of us climate scientists is to understand what controls atmospheric CO2, that’s the end game for us,” Maiti said.
Maiti began this hurricane-specific research project in 2017 to examine the different impacts hurricanes have on the car-
JASON WILLIS / The Reveille
BY SHELBY VARGA Staff Writer
see TARIFFS, page 5
ALEXIS PERSICKE / The Reveille
Alex Stein speaks Feb. 10 in the Howe Russell Geosciences Complex in Baton Rouge, La.
EDUCATION
Louisiana jumps in reading, math rankings in Nation’s Report Card
BY ALAYNA FORD Staff Writer
The state of Louisiana recently demonstrated a promising trend in its National Assessment of Educational Progress scores, specifically among fourth grade reading and mathematics growth.
In the assessment, which surveys fourth and eighth-graders’ reading, mathematics, science and writing skills, the progress Louisiana students have shown is some of the most significant in the nation. Fourth grade reading alone achieved the state’s highest national ranking ever, reaching 16th in the country, and fourth grade math scores were among the top five in the nation for growth, moving from 44th in 2022 to 38th this year.
“Could anybody pinpoint what exactly caused it? No,” said Stan Barrera, an associate professor and program coordinator for the elementary education program at LSU’s Lutrill & Pearl Payne School of Education, “absolutely not. Because there’s so many variables when it comes to educating everybody.”
Some of the key factors contributing to the progress are more focus on high-quality instructional materials, more in-
STEIN, from page 4
Stein, who encouraged students with different opinions to speak up and contradict him, had a civil, give-and-take conversation with DeJean. Though they did not agree on everything, Stein and DeJean respectfully debated, allowing both parties to speak their minds.
Turning Point USA Field Rep -
, from page 4
also serves as LSU’s Faculty Senate president.
Consumers could see price increases on items from cars and electronics to groceries and home goods. Meanwhile, American exporters may suffer if Canada and Mexico impose retaliatory tariffs, making U.S. products more expensive abroad.
“The states on the borders would be hardest hit, though the impacts will be felt throughout the country,” Tirone said. “In the case of Canada, automobiles and the housing sector will feel particular pain as there is a lot of crossborder trade and production in cars, and we import a lot of Canadian lumber. In the case of Mexico, we import a lot of transportation equipment, electronics and mechanical machiner, and agricultural products,” Tirone said.
In Louisiana, tariffs threaten to make a post-hurricane recovery more costly and challenging.
Higher lumber prices, for instance, could drive up housing costs, while
vestment in teacher training, strong accountability measures and an emphasis on foundational skills.
Additionally, there’s been more support in special education, leading the state to see a significant increase that outperforms the national average for achievement and growth in the field. In recent years, the state has provided more guidance and research to support and build on special education programs and create high-quality learning environments.
“They’ve put a lot of emphasis in making sure that group of students are also being served and not being neglected,” Barrera said. “So, I think overall that they’re really making sure that all the needs of all the kids are being met.”
The School of Education has modified some of their curriculum to better prepare the future educators at LSU. By redesigning courses to align with the science of reading, there is stronger accountability for students within the teacher preparation programs.
The state legislature has also made changes to continue the growth among students, including a longer residency require -
resentative Caleb Hall explained this was the goal of bringing Stein to campus.
“I like how he comes and challenges people and allows them to speak what they think,”
Hall said. “At Turning Point, that’s what we like to do. We like to push, make people say, ‘Why do I think this?’”
While most students enjoyed listening to him talk, some who
increased costs on automobiles and mechanical equipment may put additional financial strain on both businesses and consumers trying to recover.
“Given the frequency of natural disasters, increased cost of housing materials could really hamper poststorm recovery if we have a major hurricane or flood,” Tirone said. “It would also cost more to replace or repair cars which may be damaged or destroyed.”
American businesses that rely on exports to Canada and Mexico, particularly in sectors like agriculture, manufacturing and energy could face reduced demand due to retaliatory tariffs.
“Canada and Mexico will no doubt impose retaliatory tariffs of their own to punish U.S. exporters and put pressure on the U.S. government to remove the tariffs,” Tirone said. “This will hurt American workers and businesses who work in sectors which export to Canada and Mexico.”
If the tariffs remain in place, Canada and Mexico may look elsewhere for trade partners, shifting
ment for teachers and increased training.
“They just passed a law that says every teacher has to have training on how to teach children with dyslexia,” Barrera explained. “So we’ve already done all the paperwork and created the course and we’re actually offering the course early here.”
Another factor Barrera highlighted is the growth of Englishlanguage learners in the state, something that is now considered in the NAEP assessment. This has caused the school systems to be more considerate and inclusive in their curriculum.
“So it’s a factor,” Barrera said, “and the reason that’s important is because unless they make it a factor that affects the school report cards, it’s very easy for those students to be ignored. And so by putting that into the algorithm or the formula that calculates the school letter grades, they’re weighing in the fact that they don’t speak English.”
The Louisiana school system is looking ahead at a promising next few years according to the assessment. LSU supplying students with the updated training, the state is projected to continue to produce well-prepared educators to brighten the future.
went head-to-head with Stein were left confused by his arguments. Accounting freshman Jerimiah Glenn attempted to debate Stein about pervasive racism in America but was overwhelmed with Stein’s political jargon.
“It’s like talking to a brick wall,” Glenn said. “There’s no changing his mind, and that’s pretty clear.”
imports to South America, Europe or China. This move could permanently weaken North American economic ties, leaving U.S. industries at a competitive disadvantage.
“The other potential drawback if the tariffs are maintained for a long period of time is that both countries may seek to replace the trade they used to conduct with the United States with another source,” Tirone said, “such as countries in South America, Europe or China.”
Trump reached agreements with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Mexican President Claudia Sheimbaum to delay tariffs until March 4, in exchange for border security and drug trafficking measures.
However, the situation remains tense with China, which retaliated by imposing tariffs, launching investigations and filing a legal request with the World Trade Organization to challenge the legality of the tariffs.
Trump plans to implement a 25 percent tariff on Canada and Mexico, with a 10% tariff on China already in place.
bon cycle, and has been primarily funded by the National Science Foundation and NASA.
They received the NASA grant in 2021 and have only gone out for data once, after Hurricane Francine, resulting in heightened scrutiny from NASA for not using the money. The current NASA grant is set to expire in April 2026, and Maiti said they currently only plan to go out for sampling one more time this fall in hopes of obtaining more diversity in their data before wrapping up the project.
Another uncertainty haunting the project, besides the lack of hurricanes, is ships, which cost at minimum $14,000 a day. Even then, ships can be left damaged after storms, and coastal areas are often occupied trying to return power and repair homes, making ship repair unfeasible. Maiti said when they do get to go sampling, it is usually about a week after the storm.
“One of the cool things we have here is the ocean right in our backyard and an area that sadly allows us the opportunity to be able to observe these events, and I believe right now this kind of data we have, no one else has this,” Maiti said.
In 2018, Maiti presented research demonstrating the difference in the ocean’s carbon diox-
ide production from 2006, during a steady state, compared to 2017, right after hurricanes Harvey and Nate. They found that a higher concentration of carbon dioxide was being released in the atmosphere after a hurricane when usually the ocean reduces carbon dioxide levels.
Maiti discovered the ocean became a significant source of carbon dioxide after the passage of storms, so much so that after just one hurricane, the pH of the water dropped, making it more acidic and restricting the ocean’s ability to absorb carbon dioxide. According to Maiti, this drop created the equivalent to 100 years of human carbon dioxide emissions.
The researchers have still not been able to accurately calculate how long it takes the ocean to return to normal levels. Since presenting these findings seven years ago, Maiti claims no one else has been able to achieve this data.
Maiti said scientists are at a point where they better understand what happens when everything is in a steady state. Still, they don’t know the effects of these transient processes and how they affect understanding of carbon on a global scale.
“There is a big knowledge gap we need to fill to really understand the big picture of our carbon flow,” Maiti said.
TARIFFS
CARBON, from page 4
CAROLYN KASTER / AP Photo
Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump speaks at a campaign rally at the Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza, Aug. 17 in Wilkes-Barre, Pa.
PHOTO COURTESY OF KANCHAN MAITI
College Democrats host District 14 state Senate candidate
BY QUINN MARCEAUX Staff Writer
As the race for Louisiana State Senate District 14 enters its final days, candidate Quentin Anthony Anderson met with the LSU College Democrats to outline his platform and address issues affecting both students and Louisiana more broadly.
Anderson, a seasoned political activist, drew from his experience working on past campaigns, including Barack Obama’s presidential runs, to outline his vision for change. The discussion covered topics ranging from raising the minimum wage and protecting workers’ rights to addressing crime, infrastructure and the impact of AI on jobs.
“I think politics can be better, and I am trying to prove that,” Anderson said. “I don’t think that I’m special, but I think that what I represent could be special … They know that if I win, there are going to be a whole bunch of people just like me coming behind me.”
The visit by Anderson isn’t the first time College Democrats have brought a candidate to campus, having hosted former Transportation Secretary Shawn Wilson during his run for governor in 2023. Chemical engineering senior and
College Democrats Vice President Hamood Qureshi explained how important Anderson’s visit was to the organization, especially in making students more civically engaged.
“The fact that he is here in the first place means a lot to us but it also shows the type of person that he is, that he is willing to come and meet voters,” Qureshi said. “He really stands for a lot of the things I believe in and a lot of the things the people in the College Democrats believe in.”
A major concern Anderson addressed during the meeting was the rising cost of insurance in Louisiana. He pointed out that increasing climate risks, particularly flooding, have driven up deductibles, making coverage inaccessible for many. Anderson proposed investing in improved infrastructure to mitigate these risks and ease the financial burden on residents.
Crime and public safety were also key topics. Anderson noted that while no one wants to live in a high-crime area, Democratic leaders often represent communities disproportionately affected by crime. He stressed the urgency of tackling crime to ensure broader stability, advocating for evidencebased solutions that balance pub -
lic safety with social investment.
AI and its implications for the workforce were another major concern, with Anderson warning AI could displace jobs if proper worker protections are not implemented. He stressed the need for proactive policies to safeguard employment while equipping future generations with the skills to thrive in an AI-driven economy.
Raising the minimum wage was a top legislative point of discussion for Anderson. Acknowledging the challenges of passing such a measure in the current political climate, he vowed to introduce a bill to increase wages and hold lawmakers accountable for their votes. He criticized members of his own party who oppose wage increases, arguing that protecting workers should be a fundamental Democratic value.
“One of the first things – if not the first thing – I’ll do is introduce a bill to raise the minimum wage,” Anderson said. “It will almost certainly fail. I am going to ask all of you to hold all of those who vote against it accountable.
Education reform is another cornerstone of Anderson’s platform. He opposes taxpayer-funded school choice, arguing that charter schools undermine public education by diverting resources.
Instead, he advocates for stronger investments in public schools to ensure equitable education for all students.
Transportation infrastructure also took center stage. Anderson expressed his vision for a Baton Rouge where residents do not need cars to navigate the city, and proposed introducing light rail as a solution to improve mobility without increasing sales taxes.
“I want to see us bring light rail to Baton Rouge,” Anderson said. “I always say that I judge a city based on if there’s a quality public transit option between the airport and downtown. There is nothing here. But what I often tell people is that the funding mechanisms are going to be tough. So, we might have to get very creative with funding mechanisms for some of these things.”
On labor rights, Anderson called for repealing Louisiana’s right-to-work laws to empower unions and protect workers. He also discussed the necessity of regulating AI in industries like transportation to ensure human oversight remains integral to operations.
Addressing climate change, Anderson pushed for requiring industries to source a percentage of their energy from renewables. He
proposed universal metering and an expansion of solar power to reduce energy costs and environmental impact.
Students in attendance responded with enthusiasm to Anderson’s visit.
“I think it’s refreshing to hear a candidate that doesn’t sound like the establishment or the machine. I think as Democrats, we need candidates who make people excited to be involved. I am hoping that if he wins, he can be a catalyst for change,” said Elai Levinson, a junior political science major.
In the final days of his campaign, Anderson’s strategy is simple: maximize outreach. His focus remains on knocking on doors, making calls and preparing for a potential runoff. He urged LSU students to research candidates thoroughly before voting, emphasizing that informed decisionmaking is crucial to meaningful change.
“I think that you should vote for me because I am actually trying to represent you,” Anderson said. “I don’t have any ulterior motives; nobody sent me here. I am not the candidate on behalf of this donor or that donor. I am doing it the way that I am doing it because it is important to you wholly and objectively.”
OPINION
Heart to Heart: Is Valentine’s Day worth celebrating?
I don’t hate Valentine’s Day. In fact, I think showing love to your significant other is the most wholesome experience on Earth.
However, I hate the commercialization of romance. Not to mention that every day should feel like Valentine’s Day with the right person.
To give some background on the romantic holiday, it originated as a feast day for Saint Valentine, a Roman priest who was martyred. He was known as the patron saint of love because he didn’t allow polygamy and only blessed Christian marriages.
The initial idea of Valentine’s Day was to do something special for your loved ones, like what St. Valentine did by blessing marriages. This is a great idea because there’s no better way of showing love and appreciation to someone other than giving them roses or chocolates.
However, my issue comes in when people go above and beyond for the holiday and expect everyone else to follow suit.
Valentine’s Day is supposed to be a day of love and joy, but it feels more like a chore. People are expected to make some grandiose gesture of love towards their partner, which is expensive and unrealistic.
I know one might call me a cynic, but this is coming from the perspective of someone who actually has a Valentine. For people who don’t have a significant other, this day is just a reminder of how lonely they are.
So not only has Valentine’s Day been perverted into this machine of money that seems to be constantly printing cash, but because of the constant commercialization of Valentine’s Day, the feeling of loneliness lingers in those who are alone.
I know years before, when I was even more anti-Valentine’s Day than I am now, I would have to delete all my social media apps. At the time, I saw people posting happy pictures with their partners, but to me, it seemed like the algorithm was purposely showing me all this to make me sad.
But even with all of this aside, Valentine’s Day is an extravagant holiday to show how much you appreciate your partner, which is a good thing. But with the right partner, shouldn’t every day feel like Valentine’s Day?
I mean, you shouldn’t be expected to book a fancy restaurant you probably can’t afford every day, but you should make your partner feel as loved as they are on Valentine’s Day every day. Too much pressure on one day is reductive, and just like an egg, it’s bound to crack.
Do I think we should get rid of Valentine’s Day? No, however, I believe societal norms surrounding it should change. One way to do this is by making the holiday less about the cost of your gifts and instead the thoughts behind them.
So instead of taking your pookie to go eat an expensive steak at Sullivan’s Steakhouse, cook their favorite meal at home. Instead of buying them a box of chocolate hearts, make chocolate-dipped strawberries at home.
At the end of the day, it’s the thought that counts. Sure, you might not be able to afford an expensive steakhouse, but I think time with your partner is worth more than any amount of money. Whether you love or hate the day, make your valentine feel appreciated, and remember to check up on those who may not have one this year and be there for them, too.
Yours Truly,
It may be cliché, but I love love. I love all kinds of love. I’m big on rom-coms, romantasy, rodrama and romance media period. So it stands to reason that I love Valentine’s Day.
For the average person, Valentine’s Day may be an unimportant holiday. But for the elevated lover boy/girl/person, Valentine’s Day is clocking in with the top-tier holidays like New Year’s and Christmas.
In spite of my personal ranking of Valentine’s Day, many, even those nearest and dearest to me, detest the holiday. But that’s okay. I love them because of their flaws, and I can change their minds.
Valentine’s Day is over-hated for a plethora of reasons: it’s a corporate cash grab, why choose one day to celebrate love, the “I’m alone forever mentality,” unrealistic expectations and the classic “I’m not buying you gifts just because I love you dilemma.”
And look, these are all valid for a shallow examination of your personal relation with Cupid’s special celebration. However, the simple answer is that, like love, Valentine’s Day is personal.
The fact that Valentine’s Day has indisputably become a corporate cash grab is not lost on me, as is the case with most jovial celebrations in a capitalistic society. But let’s be honest here: it’s easy not to participate in gift buying and giving.
Remember, Valentine’s Day is for you and your loved ones; if you don’t want to give gifts, then don’t. Communicate with your loved ones and have an open discussion on your feelings about gift-giving and playing the role of a dutiful consumer.
Some, myself included, believe that a sweet homemade gift, even a letter, has more sentimental value than a more traditional gift like a bracelet.
Perhaps the silliest reason to be a Valentine’s Day hater is that you lack a romantic
partner of your own.
I get it when you’re so focused on yourself and what you feel is the missing piece from your life, that being a lover, that, of course, a day dedicated to love will be downright hateable. Screw what the masses say, the only opinion you need to listen to is mine, and I implore you to remember the other types of love: familial, meaning platonic and self.
Valentine’s Day is all about love. You don’t have to imbibe romantic love to have a good time. Many fond memories of my childhood are from my parents getting me strawberries and knick-knacks that were small, cheap and endorphin-releasing goodness. I’d be remiss not to mention just how important self-love can be every day, specifically on the love day.
You can take this by buying yourself something nice or doing something nice for yourself., all the typical self-care stuff that we so often neglect. You can take Valentine’s Day, which is typically all about others, and turn it into a day of downright hedonistic pleasure if you’re so inclined.
Maybe you hate Valentine’s Day because you feel like your partner or loved ones are going to be disappointed without a grand gesture. Maybe you’re sad because you can’t get yourself a grand gesture.
All it takes for the partner and loved one fiasco is open communication. If they can’t accept your truth, then they weren’t deserving of a gift anyway.
As for disappointing yourself, indulge in a little delusion. Gaslight yourself into being happy with what you’ve got whilst romanticizing what you want. Make yourself crave it like you crave a lover on a cold Valentine’s Day night or a box of chocolates.
Valentine’s Day is the greatest because of how personal it can be. It’s a day simply about love in all its forms, a day to indulge and be indulged. What’s not to love about love?
Andrew Sarhan Opinion Columnist XOXO, Garrett Mcentee Opinion Columnist
Editorial Policies and Procedures
The Reveille (USPS 145-800) is written, edited and produced solely by students of Louisiana State University. The Reveille is an independent entity of the Office of Student Media within the Manship School of Mass Communication. Signed opinions are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of the editor, The Reveille or the university. Letters submitted for publication should be sent via e-mail to editor@lsu.edu or delivered to B-39 Hodges Hall. They must be 400 words or less. Letters must provide a contact phone number for verification purposes, which will not be printed. The Reveille reserves the right to edit letters and guest columns for space consideration while preserving the original intent. The Reveille also reserves the right to reject any letter without notification of the author. Writers must include their full names and phone numbers. The Reveille’s editor in chief, hired every semester by the LSU Student Media Board, has final authority on all editorial decisions.
Quote of the Week
“If there hadn’t been women, we’d still be squatting in a cave eating raw meat.” Orson
Welles American filmmaker 1915 — 1985
The age of biology: Why we must protect biomedical research funding
President William F. Tate IV discusses the change of wording from “inclusion” to “engagement” in the Division of Engagement, Civil Rights and Title IX Jan. 24, at a Faculty Senate meeting inside the Woods Auditorium on LSU’s campus in Baton Rouge, La.
Editor’s note: The following is a publicly released op-ed by LSU President William F. Tate IV.
As cancer took hold of his life, my grandfather agreed to participate in a research study to evaluate the effectiveness of a new treatment. He told me, “I am not doing this for myself; I am doing it for others.” We live in the Age of Biology, where novel cancer treatments, genetic disease therapies and organ transplantation, deliver hope to families in Louisiana and across the country in medical emergencies once thought untreatable. Biomedical science fuels economic growth, it strengthens Louisiana’s workforce, and positions America as the global leader in medical innovation. To remain competitive, we must invest, compete, and lead.
Yet, recent changes to NIH funding policies threaten to undermine progress. On February 7, 2025, the National Institutes of Health dropped universities’ negotiated facilities and administration (F&A) rates to 15%. For institutions like Louisiana State
University (LSU), which holds approximately $192 million in NIH funding, research that generates $550 million in economic impact for Louisiana, this decision delivers a direct financial blow to local efforts.
These funds cover essential research costs—laboratories, equipment, utilities, compliance, and, most importantly, the researchers themselves.
Without sufficient support, lifesaving discoveries will stall, and research institutions across the state and nation will face crippling financial shortfalls.
At LSU alone, the immediate loss amounts to $12 million, jeopardizing critical research on cancer, metabolic diseases, brain injuries, and toxic exposure. If 60% of the cuts impact personnel, Louisiana could lose hundreds of research-active faculty members, graduate assistantships, and research administration jobs. This brain drain will have long-term consequences, pushing top talent out of the state and weakening the very foundation of biomedi-
cal progress.
LSU’s Scholarship First agenda delivers real-world solutions—advancing treatments for sepsis, metabolic disorders, brain injuries and inherited disorders. LSU biomedical researchers support cures for humans and animals, with the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine ranking in the top10 nationally for NIH funding per faculty member among its peers. Pennington Biomedical Center and our other campuses conduct important health related research, but their breakthroughs require sustained investment. Without it, patients face fewer options, and our country falls behind in its competitive standing in biomedicine.
The bottom line is simple: When a patient needs a cure, research must translate into clinical solutions. NIH funding drives that progress. America must lead. Louisiana must compete. Lives depend on it.
William F. Tate IV President, LSU
MATTHEW PERSCHALL / The Reveille
LSU
COURTESY OF KATHERINE SEGHERS
President Tate and others stand in front of the Scholarship First Bus on the last day of the tour.
GYMNASTICS
Stock watch: Which SEC teams are trending up and down?
BY ETHAN STENGER Sports Editor
After a 342-day hiatus, SEC Gymnastics Stock Watch returns, and it returns at a perfect time.
Oklahoma and LSU, the nation’s No. 1 and 2 ranked teams will meet in a heavyweight SEC fight on Friday night at the PMAC.
So before the top two squads duke it out, let’s look around and see who’s rising and falling through six weeks of SEC gymnastics:
RISING
LSU can win on the road
Before facing the top-ranked Sooners, the then-No. 3 Tigers first had to face No. 14 Alabama on the road, where LSU has had its fair share of struggles this season, losing in Fayetteville to No. 17 Arkansas just two weeks ago.
“We’ve been great at home,” Tigers head coach Jay Clark said. “We haven’t been great on the road.”
Clark’s crew got a second chance on the road last Friday against the Crimson Tide, and this time, they delivered.
LSU took home three of the four events at the meet: Kailin Chio was on vault with a 9.975 and again on beam with a 9.925, while Ashley Cowan and Konner McClain finished with a 9.900 on bars.
Chio claimed her second straight all-around title by scoring 39.650 of
LSU
star
Oklahoma past Kentucky, 197.825197.225.
The Sooners will look to remain unbeaten when they travel to Baton Rouge on Friday for a historic rematch with the Bayou Bengals, who they previously faced along with No. 4 Utah and No. 6 California at the Sprouts Farmer’s Collegiate Quad.
The LSU gymnastics floor team huddles up April 20, 2024, during the NCAA Gymnastics Championship in the Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Tx.
the Tigers’ points as LSU cruised past Alabama, 197.300-197.075.
Over the past two weeks, Chio’s efforts have recently helped her land back-to-back SEC Freshman of the Week awards. adding to her four total on the year.
“It was a gutsy win. I’m proud of the effort and fight,” Clark said. “It wasn’t pretty in every spot, but they got it done. We have a great group of kids, and they fought their way through a crazy environment here tonight. We are certainly pleased we got the win; that’s big and helps us down the road.”
LSU is climbing in this week’s stock watch by showing their ability to perform in a harsh environment on the road.
Oklahoma rolls over Kentucky
After an early exit from last
Flau’jae Johnson announces third studio album ‘Flau & B’
BY ROSS ABBOUD Staff Writer
Flau’jae Johnson announced on social media Tuesday that she is dropping her first full R&B album, ‘Flau & B’, on Feb. 14.
Johnson announced her project in a post on X, formerly Twitter, saying “I poured my heart into this – every lyric, every melody. This ain’t just R&B. This is ‘Flau & B.’”
The LSU guard is a double threat, and not just on the court. Johnson has an established music career with two albums, nine singles and one EP. Johnson has songs featuring NLE Choppa and Lil’ Wayne.
She finds motivation for her music career from her late father, Jason Johnson, who had a rap career around the turn of the century under the rap name Camoflauge.
year’s semifinals, the Sooners have re-established themselves as the clear favorite to win it all in 2025.
Through Week 6, Oklahoma remains undefeated with the highest average in the country at 197.746 and a high score of 197.950, which they recorded at the Sprouts Farmer’s Market Collegiate Quad in Oklahoma City.
While the Sooners wouldn’t post a new high score on Friday against No. 8 Kentucky, they would continue their undefeated streak.
Faith Torrez’s 9.975 on vault and 9.950 on floor won her the allaround title with a 39.625, while Audrey Davis won the bars title with a 9.950.
The talent across the Sooners’ roster was just too much for the Wildcats to handle, propelling
PERFORMANCE, from page 3
teammates, who have had their fair share of struggles this season.
Tigers gymnast KJ Johnson suffered from a sprained ankle, which led to a temporary retirement after competing against the Cyclones in the first meeting of the season, where she earned a 9.825 on vault.
It wasn’t until the end of the month against Missouri that Johnson was able to return for the season on vault, where she scored a 9.900 and a 9.825 versus the Crimson Tide.
“I’ve just been dying to perform in the PMAC again,” Johnson said. “It felt good to be supportive to my team and be able to contribute a good score to them.”
Also recovering from an injury this season is elite LSU gymnast Haleigh Bryant, who was absent from the season-opening meet after suffering a preseason injury to her elbow.
Despite that, Bryant has slowly been making her way back to each event as the season progresses, but Clark said she will not be participating on bars this Friday.
“Whatever this team needs me to do, I’m going to step up when my body is ready,” Bryant said.
The defending 2024 all-around NCAA champion is ranked No. 1 on vault after finally returning to the event in LSU’s 197.300-197.075 against Alabama last week, earning a 9.925 on the event.
“It was just really good to be out there with my team and just doing what we do every single day,” Bry-
No. 2 LSU is a huge opportunity for college gymnastics. A duel between the sport’s two best teams is always a spectacle, and this one will be no different.
“I hope we can pack 20,000 people in the building somehow,” Clark said. “It’s fantastic for college gymnastics.”
FALLING
Florida flounders on beam
With a three-meet winning streak on the line, No. 2 Florida went into Fayetteville and won three of the four events at the meet, but it still wasn’t enough to get past No. 15 Arkansas on Friday.
The Gators led by .650 heading into the final rotation of the night, but it just wasn’t their night.
Florida finished with a seasonlow 48.175 on balance beam while the Razorbacks registered new season-bests on vault and bars as Arkansas upset the Gators.
Arkansas may not be ranked No. 15 for very much longer. The Razorbacks have now upset the No. 2 ranked team in the nation in back-to-back home meets, including twice in the past three weeks.
Until Florida, now ranked No. 3, can prove they can win inter-conference meets on the road, the SEC will remain unforgiving.
ESPN Friday night’s highly-anticipated meet between No. 1 Oklahoma and
ant said.
At the Sprouts Market Collegiate Quad earlier this season, Bryant appeared on the balance beam, earning a 9.750, a score that she later topped against Florida with a 9.950. Against the Gators, Bryant returned to the floor and scored a 9.900, which she bested weeks later versus Missouri with a 9.950.
Kailin Chio has brought home her fair share of 9.950s herself as well.
The four-time SEC Freshman of the Week scored a 9.950 on vault at the Collegiate Quad and while competing versus the Razorbacks. On the floor, she received a 9.950 against Missouri.
Chio’s scores and overall performance as a freshman have led her to claim the all-around gymnast title twice back-to-back this season after facing off the Crimson Tide in Tuscaloosa.
She started her season with LSU against Florida, where she confused
While the matchup itself is fantastic for college gymnastics, ESPN’s handling of the matchup has not been.
Since the start of last season, ESPN has had the final say in determining what time televised college gymnastics meets would start as part of their partnership with the NCAA to help the sport grow.
The problem? ESPN scheduled the meet to start at 8 p.m. locally, with the live telecast airing on ESPN2 instead of the main network or even ABC.
“I wish it wasn’t the 9 p.m. East Coast meet,” Clark said. “I prefer to have it a little more in primetime than that.”
The late start time and ESPN2 broadcast regulate NCAA gymnastics’ most meaningful moment to a late start time and secondary channel.
Either way, the building is destined to be packed to watch Oklahoma and LSU take the floor together.
“We certainly love it for our fans,” Clark said. “I love the fact that they’re going to get to come here Friday night and see, what is right now, the two best teams in the country.”
the audience as she began her routine on uneven bars and suddenly stopped to start over.
As it turns out, the former elite gymnast had recently recovered from an illness but still took it upon herself to compete for the sake of her team.
“You don’t have to be perfect all the time,” Clark said. “I just let her know that the pressure is not on her to carry us all the time as a freshman.”
That night, Chio made a 38.900 in the all-around, helping LSU bring home a win.
While the Tigers have had their highs and lows throughout the season, the team says it will continue with regular training and not dwell on the past.
“Just because the No. 1 team in the country is coming in here, we’re going to treat it the exact same,” Bryant said. “Do our normal gymnastics and do what we do every single day because normal is enough.”
MADALYN CUNNINGHAM / The Reveille
New to watching NCAA gymnastics? Here’s how it’s scored
BY GABBY GRAY Staff Writer
Are you trying to get into NCAA gymnastics but struggling to understand exactly how scoring works?
Here’s everything you need to know about how the sport’s scores in anticipation of the No. 2 LSU Tigers’ face-off with the No. 1 Oklahoma Sooners this Friday night at the PMAC.
After winning the national championship last year, gymnastics has been quite a popular sport among LSU students, with names like social media influencer Olivia Dunne, 2024 NCAA Champion Haleigh Bryant and Filipino Olympian Aleah Finnegan.
Every week, gymnasts gather alongside their teammates competing against another school in hopes of earning a perfect 10—the highest possible score for a collegiate routine—something that only five gymnasts within the NCAA have achieved so far this season.
Only one of those gymnasts, all-around redshirt senior Helen Hu, is a member of the SEC, competing for the Missouri Tigers. Hu received a perfect 10 for her balance beam routine against the Oklahoma Sooners.
So how is a perfect 10 achieved?
Depending on the event, some have a different start value, essentially where a gymnast will start receiving deductions.
The vault’s start value fluctuates depending on how complicated the routine is.
If a gymnast starts a Yurchenko one and a half, meaning they have delivered a whole twist plus a half twist while taking flight on the vault, their start value is 10.000, and they can receive deductions for any imperfections in their routine.
A full Yurchenko on the vault is where a gymnast starts her routine with a round-off on the springboard and a back handspring on the vaulting table, with a somersault or even a flip worked in a
LSU gymnastics’ Olivia Dunne named grand marshal for Endymion parade
BY ROSS ABBOUD Staff Writer
LSU gymnast Olivia Dunne will serve as the grand marshal for the 2025 Krewe of Endymion parade which rides on the Saturday before Mardi Gras, parade officials announced on Wednesday.
Dunne will lead New Orleans’ iconic parade of over 3,000 riders and 37 floats as they travel their route through Mid-City and downtown New Orleans before ultimately taking a trip through the Superdome.
Dunne, a veteran member of the gymnastics team and national champion, is back for a final season as the Tigers look to win back-to-
back championships. She is famous off the floor for being the most followed NCAA athlete on social media with more than 8 million TikTok followers and 5.3 million Instagram followers.
Endymion officials are excited for Dunne to join the parade with parade captain Dan Kelly saying “her spirit and energy reflect that of Mardi Gras, and we can’t wait to celebrate this special occasion with her leading the way.”
Other notable New Orleans parades are announcing their celebrity royalties, as the Krewe of Bacchus announced basketball and LSU legend Shaquille O’Neal as their king.
while in flight as part of their salt.
A successful Yurchenko awards the gymnast a start value of 9.950.
When referring to the other three events, uneven bars, balance beam and the floor, as long as the gymnast fulfills basic requirements specific to each event, they start with a 9.400 and can reach a 10 by skills shown in different difficulty levels.
Some of these skills are specific to the NCAA, like a tenth of a point awarded for a single bar release on
uneven bars.
Gymnasts may also face penalties for not completing a special requirement on a routine, which can deduct up to two-tenths of a point.
So, to reach a perfect 10, a gymnast must perform complex skills, but the more difficult the skill is, the more room there is for error, which can result in deductions.
Believe it or not, there are also two different types of deductions: composition deductions and execution deductions.
Composition deductions surround the minimum requirements a gymnast must fulfill depending on the event; if a gymnast doesn’t meet these requirements, they are deducted a tenth of a point, keeping that perfect 10 just out of reach.
An example of a requirement that must be met on the balance beam is the number of saltos delivered.
Gymnasts must perform both a backward and forward salto on the beam; if they fail, they receive a composition deduction by delivering one, not the other or none.
Execution deductions, on the other hand, focus on any errors the gymnast makes while performing their routine.
These can be taken in any form, landing or performance missteps.
If a gymnast lands with bent knees? That’s a deduction up to three-tenths of a point (0.300).
What about if they fall during their routine? Half a point is deducted (0.500).
You may tell yourself that something as simple as flexed feet couldn’t receive a deduction, but you’d be wrong. Having flexed feet is minus 0.050 of a point off of a routine.
While there has been controversy around scoring deductions taken at the judges’ discretion recently, execution deductions usually remain consistent per routine.
For a more detailed chart on execution deductions, you can visit the NCAA’s website to find out how small or large a mistake can keep a gymnast from a perfect 10.
ERIN BARKER / The Reveille
LSU gymnastics all-around graduate student Kiya Johnson receives a perfect 10.00 on floor Jan. 19, 2024, during LSU’s 198.125-197.600 win against Kentucky in the Pete Maravich Assembly Center.
ENTERTAINMENT
Rev Rank: “One of Them Days” is a much-needed comedy
BY ARIS WILLIAMS Staff Writer
Female buddy comedy “One Of Them Days” starring Solana Rowe, known as SZA, and Keke Palmer is made waves at the box office and sparked conversations about the R&B singer’s official acting debut.
The film details a chaotic day in the life of friend duo Dreux (Palmer) and Alyssa (Rowe) who must scramble to come up with the money to pay rent and avoid an imminent eviction. Their journey leads to an array of wacky circumstances, including breaking and entering, paramedics and a close encounter with a gang leader.
Rowe and Palmer’s comedic moments and playful banter make for a funny and lively film. Other prominent cast members include Katt Williams, Janelle James and Maude Apatow. “One Of Them
Days” has a rating of “R” and is suitable for adults only.
One of the first things I came to appreciate about this movie was its depiction of life in a typical working-class, primarily-black neighborhood; one we would affectionately refer to as “the hood.” Hilarious commentary from Dreux and Alyssa’s nosy neighbors, a looming fear of the neighborhood being gentrified, and the tight-knit community that offered their assistance without hesitation are true to my own experiences growing up in a similar environment.
I was also impressed by the acting abilities that Rowe (SZA) displayed in this project, as an aspiring artist Alyssa. Alyssa’s carefree, and sometimes reckless, nature got her and Dreux into their mess. Her recklessness somehow manages to also be what gets them out of it.
She accurately captures the essence of that one friend you can’t see yourself without, despite how much their terrible choices stress you out. Palmer adds to her already lengthy filmography with “One of Them Days,” playing uptight, hardworking waitress Dreux who desires a more fulfilling career path. Their personalities mesh, clash then mesh again as the plot moves along; a perfect metaphor for an imperfect relationship.
“One of Them Days” is much needed comedic relief during a time where films are typically melodramatic and serious. This is a movie that I can see myself revisiting when I just want to laugh. We also haven’t had a major Black, woman-led buddy comedy since the likes of “B.A.P.S.” (1997), so it’s always nice to see some representation.
Palmer and Rowe pair well as
co-stars and have impeccable comedic timing. The plot is outrageous, silly and a bit ridiculous, but those are the defining characteristics of a good comedy. I loved this movie and would watch it over
again and again. “One of Them Days” is being shown in theatres and will be available on digital platforms such as Prime Video and Apple TV starting Tuesday, Feb. 11.
DON’T MISS: EIGHT MUST-SEE PLAYS COMING TO BR
BY LAURA ALLEN Staff Writer
After famed actor Edmund Kean collapses on stage while playing Othello, young African American actor Ira Aldridge must rise to the challenge of playing the titular role. Based on a true story, Lolita Chakrabarti’s “Red Velvet” follows Aldridge’s rise to fame as he takes over the role of Othello in the midst of slavery and the abolitionist movement of 1833. Amidst this chaos, how will society react to Aldridge’s performance? The remaining show dates will begin at 7:30 p.m., with the show on Sunday, Feb. 16 beginning at 2 p.m.
Check out this one-day-only premiere of “CCT in Concert: A night at the Movies”. This family-friendly concert features a variety of songs from beloved movie-musicals. This show will begin at 7 p.m.
See your favorite Dr. Seuss characters come to life in this musical perfect for all ages. Join the Cat in the Hat as he takes the imaginative JoJo on an adventure through Whoville, the Jungle of Nool and more, to learn the value of being unique. Shows will take place on Feb. 13 to 14 at 7 p.m. and Feb. 15 at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Set in an idealized suburban neighborhood, this play follows concerned parents as they watch their teens grow more and more addicted to a new horror video game. The game, set in a suburban subdivision eerily similar to their own, has players fight hordes of zombies to escape the neighborhood. As the teens become increasingly absorbed in the game, the virtual world and the reality they live in begin to merge together. “Neighborhood 3” was written by Jennifer Haley and directed by Ethan Hood. The show will begin at 7:30 p.m., with the show on Sunday, Feb. 23 beginning at 2 p.m.
This 1950s retelling of “The Nutcracker” by Jessica Kintigh follows Mary Stallburgh and her new doll as they travel into the world of television full of 50s nostalgia. Visit the Hopkins Black Box Theatre website to reserve your seats. The show will begin at 7:30 p.m., with the show on Sunday, Feb. 23 beginning at 2:30 p.m.
Love, Greek mythology and a soundtrack straight from the 80s all collide in this Broadway hit when Kira, a Greek muse, encourages the struggling artist Sonny Malone to leave behind his dull job and open a roller-skating disco. Filled with neon lights and disco balls, this musical is sure to get you dancing! The musical will begin at 7:30 p.m. (Sunday, March 9, 16, and 23 will begin at 2 p.m.).
This play by Tulane University students explores the complexities of college and the social pressures that come with it. The show begins at 7:30 p.m., with the show on Sunday, March 16 beginning at 2 p.m.
This stage adaptation of the Disney animated movie follows Quasimodo, the deformed bell-ringer of Notre Dame cathedral and his desire to explore the world he’s been hidden from his whole life. Along the way, he meets the beautiful Romani woman Esmeralda who teaches him that true beauty lies within. The musical will begin at 7:30 p.m., with the show on Sunday, March 16 and 23 beginning at 2 p.m. This show is rated PG-13.
COURTESY OF AP PHOTO
This image released by Sony Pictures shows Keke Palmer, left, and SZA in a scene from “One of Them Days.”
SOUNDTRACK TO YOUR LOVE LIFE
10 songs to add to your Valentine’s Day playlist
by Nat King Cole
After its release in 1951, “Unforgettable” has earned the title of one of the best love songs of all time. The simple melody and lyrics have become a staple in romantic music. Enjoy this version or the 1991 re-recording with Cole’s daughter, Natalie Cole.
“You Are In Love” by Taylor Swift
“You Are In Love” by Taylor Swift comes from her 2014 album “1989.” She describes the most simple moments with her significant other that lead her to her realization of being in love. A delicate piano, layered vocals and the mutual affection described, gives the song a dreamy feel.
“Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You - (I Love You Baby)” by
Lauryn Hill’s soulful rendition of “Can’t Take my Eyes off You” by Frankie Valli is perfect for any Valentine’s Day playlist. Off her 1998 album “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill,” she is able to seamlessly blend R&B, neo-soul and hip-hop to create this iconic, modern love ballad.
BY OLIVIA TOMLINSON Entertainment editor
Every track off Sade’s 1992 album “Love Deluxe” is a perfect fit for any Valentine’s Day playlist; however, “Kiss of Life” sticks out with its exploration of vulnerability. In her emotional delivery, she yearns for someone whose love feels like life itself. This timeless, romantic longing and smooth production stands out from the rest of the album.
“Something” by The Beatles
The perfect blend of a rock and pop love ballad was written in 1969 by George Harrison. Though the four boys have a plethora of love songs to choose from, “Something” off the iconic 1969 album “Abbey Road” is one of the most beautiful. The mystery of love is explored in this simple song.
Etta James’ powerful voice shines in this song, as she sings about her deepening her love. The jazz and blues influence give the song a timeless feel and her raw emotion allows listeners to feel her experience with love.
Big Thief’s gentle approach to “Born For Loving You” makes it the perfect non traditional Valentine’s Day song. The band explores the idea of loving as freeing, yet confining. This track will appeal to listeners who can appreciate poetic lyricism.
This short and sweet 1950s track shows the uncertainty of young love and questions whether those relationships are genuine. The simple song and Nelson’s smooth vocal are a Valentine’s Day playlist staple.
The addition of “Do You Remember” by Jack Johnson to your Valentine’s Day playlist will have you appreciating your memories from every Feb. 14. His warm and soothing vocals gives the song a laid-back feel, making listeners time travel back to their sweetest moments.
Add the original version of this famous love song to your Valentine’s Day playlist, or enjoy covers by artists such as Adele, Billy Joel and Garth Brooks. Whether you appreciate Dylan’s folk style or a more modern cover, this song is sure to resonate with everyone.
Looking for an affordable and romantic Valentine’s Day?
BY ASHLYNN BAILLIO Staff Writer
Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and for students on budget, finding the perfect date night spot can be tricky. While the classic dinner-and-a-movie date is always an option, Baton Rouge offers plenty of affordable and unique experiences that will help you impress your date without emptying your wallet.
If you’re looking for a truly out-of-this-world experience, Highland Road Park Observatory’s “A Celestial Romance” event is the perfect way to spend Valentine’s evening. With free admission and stunning views of the night sky, couples can gaze at planets, asteroids and other celestial wonders. Viewing takes place at different times from 6 to 10 p.m., so check out the schedule and plan accordingly. The romantic ambiance of stargazing makes this date one to remember.
If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, head to La Divina Italian Cafe, located off Perkins Road in the Acadian Village Shopping Center. Here you can enjoy live music every Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. Pair a performance by a local band with one of their 24 flavors of gelato or sorbet for the perfect romantic combination. Admission is free, making it an easy date idea for couples on a budget.
Baton Rouge Art and Science Museum
For music lovers, Chelsea’s Live is hosting “Chemtrails Over Chelsea’s,” a Lana Del Rey-themed night on Valentine’s Day. With $10 admissions for this 18+ event, couples can enjoy music, dancing and drinks in a lively atmosphere. Doors open at 8 p.m., so get there early and grab a spot on the dance floor. If your date is a Lana Del Rey fan, this is a can’t-miss experience.
For a more low-key date, pack a picnic and head to the LSU Lakes. Watch the sunset on the water, while enjoying the peaceful scenery. Bring a blanket and pick up takeout from nearby City Slice or grab a drink and a snack from Highland Coffees for an easy, affordable meal.
If nightlife is more your vibe, Red Stick Social is the place to be. Friday happy hour runs from 5 to 7 p.m., with $4 house wines, well liquors and domestic draft and can beers. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, live music and rooftop views.
For couples who love art, history and science, the Baton Rouge Art and Science Museum offers a fun and educational date option. Open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Fridays, the museum features rotating art exhibits, ancient Egyptian artifacts and an immersive planetarium experience.
Admission starts at $15, and with plenty to see and explore, this makes for a great daytime date.
With so many affordable and unique options, Baton Rouge is full of ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Whether you want to stargaze, listen to live music or enjoy a classic happy hour, there’s a date idea for everyone.
“Unforgettable”
“Kiss of Life” by Sade
“Born For Loving You” by Big Thief
“A Teenager’s Romance” by Ricky Nelson
Ms. Lauryn Hill
“Lovin’ You More Every Day” by Etta James
“Do You Remember” by Jack Johnson
“Make You Feel My Love” by Bob Dylan