Chancellor’s Forum: Martin outlines University’s financial plans, p. 3
Women’s basketball: Van Chancellor resigns after four seasons, p. 7
Reveille The Daily
Clean as a Whistle
www.lsureveille.com
St. Patty’s Day: BR puts its own spin on festive holiday, p. 11
Thursday, March 17, 2011 • Volume 115, Issue 108
TLC show to feature Prairieville crime-scene cleaning business Celeste Ansley Staff Writer
Xtreme Cleaners, a crime-scene cleaning company in Prairieville, will face the challenges of cleaning a home devastated by Hurricane Katrina and a home ransacked by hoarders April 12 on the TLC show “Ultimate Cleaners.” Larry Douglas, president of Xtreme Cleaners, is a former police officer from New England who founded the company in 2003 because he wanted to help families clean up after tragic events place in their homes. The company added the Prairieville location in 2008. “The premise was to help families in time of need,” Douglas said. The episodes featuring Xtreme Cleaners were supposed to premiere March 20 but have been pushed back so a Charlie Sheen special can air. Douglas said the company now cleans homicide and suicide incidents, methamphetamine labs, crack houses, hoarder homes and animal over-runs. “Basically, anything that causes a house to go into total distress,” Douglas said. Douglas said suicide is an incident with which the company commonly deals. “We are extremely discreet and clean it up so the family doesn’t have to deal with the trauma,” he said. Douglas said his service doesn’t become a burden on families because the cleanup can be covered by homeowners insurance if a crime scene or death occurs in the home. Douglas said some cases are tougher than XTREME, see page 6
photos courtesy of DISCOVERY CHANNEL
[Top] Matt Douglas of “Ultimate Cleaners” stands in front of a distressed property in New Orleans affected by Hurricane Katrina. [Bottom, from left to right] Patrick Fletcher and Joshua Douglas take trash bags to the dumpster. Joshua Douglas loads the dumpster. Fletcher uses a fogger to purify the air.
Regents propose funding formula Matthew Albright Chief Staff Writer
The Board of Regents is considering changing its funding formula, according to a report issued to legislators Wednesday afternoon. The Regents oversee the state’s higher education system. Its funding formula determines how much funding individual schools receive. The proposal presents four major changes to the existing formula. First, different standards would be applied to two-year institutions like Baton Rouge Community College than to four-year institutions like LSU. Two-year administrators have complained their goals are different from four-year institutions and therefore merit different benchmarks. Second, funding would be tied to performance standards that apply to the LA GRAD Act, a bill passed last year that allows institutions to raise tuition independently by up to 10 percent, given certain performance markers. Administrators at technical colleges and smaller universities have complained that graduation rates, REGENTS, see page 6
ELECTION WATCH: A series looking at the SG presidential race
Wells, Bordelon propose student voice on Board of Sups Editor’s note: Ticket series will be printed in alphabetical order according to the presidential candidates’ last names. Andrea Gallo Staff Writer
Candidates of the “Together LSU” ticket for Student Government president and vice president say they want to make SG an outlet for communication among University organizations and administrators. Presidential candidate Cody Wells, an SG senator, and vice presidential candidate Kathleen Bordelon, former senator and current director of Student Outreach, said the SG president will be eligible for a seat on the Board of Supervisors in the upcoming year, and Wells said
he will “go after the seat with all his might.” Currently, Ali Lieberman, LSUShreveport’s SG president, is the student member on the Board. Bordelon said she is prepared to step into Wells’ role if he is busy at the Board of Supervisors. She said with a strong executive branch behind them, Wells’ absence from the SG office will not affect goals that need to be accomplished. The duo, both of whom have worked in the Legislature as aides, said the process for budget cuts is largely political because Gov. Bobby Jindal is up for re-election. Wells said he supports mergers of universities, but legislators are going to cling to whatever University is in their area. Wells said while Jindal’s current proposed budget says there will
be no cuts to higher education, the politicized process will change that. “Just because his initial budget is pretty for higher education, it won’t be at the end,” Wells said. Though Wells and Bordelon say they will “protect student interest” as far as budget cuts, they will not dedicate their entire administration to them. “We’re not going to let the focus of our administration be combating budget cuts,” Wells said. Wells voted for both the resolution to add “gender identity and expression” to the
Hear more from Wells and Bordelon at 5:20 p.m. on KLSU. TOGETHER LSU, see page 6
BRIANNA PACIORKA / The Daily Reveille
Student Government presidential candidate Cody Wells, left, and vice presidential candidate Kathleen Bordelon discuss their campaign Wednesday in Hodges Hall.
The Daily Reveille
page 2
INTERNATIONAL
Nation & World
Thursday, March 17, 2011
NATIONAL
STATE/LOCAL
American, Russian astronauts land on Earth after 5 months in space
If Obama wins second term, Hillary Clinton won’t keep sec. of state job
Brother of oil rig victim wants to improve safety before drilling again
ALMATY, Kazakhstan (AP) — NASA astronaut Scott Kelly and two Russian cosmonauts landed safely Wednesday in snowy Kazakhstan after spending five months on the International Space Station. The Soyuz capsule carrying Kelly, Alexander Kaleri and Oleg Skripochka landed at 1:53 p.m. about 50 kilometers from the northern Kazakh city of Arkalyk. Kelly returns to earth just as his twin brother Mark, husband of wounded congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, prepares to take part in the U.S. space shuttle Endeavour’s final mission in April. The capsule came back to harsh conditions, including a stiff wind that blew it on its side and rolled it 22 meters (25 yards) from its touchdown point through fresh snow. Rob Navias, a spokesman for NASA, described conditions as “like a scene from the North Pole.” The space travelers were bundled into blankets after being pulled from the capsule, then placed in reclining stretchers as they slowly acclimated to the planet’s gravity. The capsule landed about 3 1/2 hours after undocking. A parachute was deployed about 15 minutes before touchdown, slowing its speed from 500 mph to 180 mph.
WASHINGTON (AP) — Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton said Wednesday she does not want to stay in her job if President Barack Obama wins a second term in 2012. The nation’s top diplomat also firmly said she neither has plans to mount another White House bid nor interest in other posts, such as vice president or defense secretary. Clinton, visiting Cairo, was asked whether she would stay on in a second Obama term. She was also asked if she would like the job of president, vice president or defense secretary. She offered single word responses to each: “No.”
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — The brother of one of the 11 workers killed last year on the Deepwater Horizon rig knows Gulf offshore drilling is important to his home state of Louisiana, but he wants Congress to keep pressuring the oil and gas industry to improve safety. Chris Jones told the House Committee on Natural Resources at a hearing Wednesday that while BP and other energy companies want to move on, he believes no one should have to risk his or her life needlessly. Officials from Gulf states countered that deepwater drilling permits are not being issued fast enough, costing jobs and revenue. Jones’ brother, Gordon, was an engineer for M-I Swaco, a unit of the Schlumberger oil field firm, who was killed when the rig exploded. The blast led to the worst offshore oil spill in U.S. history. The first deepwater permit since the oil spill for activity that was previously suspended was issued Feb. 28. A second was issued recently. Congress has yet to pass any new laws based on recommendations issued Feb. 17. Another key investigation by a joint U.S. Coast GuardBureau of Ocean Energy Management Regulation and Enforcement panel is still ongoing.
BILL INGALLS / The Associated Press
Astronaut Scott Kelly rests onboad a Russian helicopter, wearing a “Gabby” bracelet to support his wounded sisterin-law U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords.
New power line may ease radiation crisis at Japanese nuclear plant
Petraeus reveals his son served in Afghanistan, personal stake in war
FUKUSHIMA, Japan (AP) — A nearly completed power line could restore cooling systems in Japan’s tsunami-crippled nuclear power plant, its operator said Thursday, raising hope of easing the crisis that has threatened a meltdown and spawned dangerous radiation surges. Conditions at the plant appeared to worsen, white smoke pouring from the complex and a surge in radiation levels forcing workers to retreat for hours Wednesday from their struggle to cool the overheating reactors.
WASHINGTON (AP) — Challenged to “be honest” about how long American troops might fight in Afghanistan, Gen. David Petraeus revealed that he has a personal stake in ensuring war objectives are met — his son, Stephen, whose recent combat tour was kept “quiet.” In an exchange with Rep. Walter B. Jones, R-N.C., Petraeus said “if I ever felt that we couldn’t achieve our objectives,” he would be “very forthright” with his superiors in the military chain of command.
HAPPY ST. PATRICK PETERSON DAY
Today on lsureveille.com Online Exclusive: Read about Wednesday’s SG meeting. Video: Watch Chancellor Michael Martin discuss the state of the University. Blogs: A critique of ‘90s shows on LMFAO. See photos of the Reveille photo editor’s green hair and a gallery about how to make green St. Patrick’s Day beer on Sharpshooter. Join us at flickr.com/groups/ thedailyreveillephotos
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POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
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The Daily Reveille
Thursday, March 17, 2011
page 3
ADMINISTRATION
Martin outlines University’s financial plans, discusses problems
Chancellor holds forum Wednesday Meredith Will Contributing Writer
As the legislative session draws closer, Chancellor Michael Martin is outlining ways to keep the University financially solvent in the coming years. Martin said during the ‘Let’s hancellorwaste no CFaculty Senmoney that tate Forum on can be put Wednesday that University into the the needs to move non-aca- away from deon demic side pendence state money, of the even though institution.’ budget cuts have already toMichael Martin taled about $50 million. chancellor Right now, the University funds are about 50 percent state-provided. Martin said he wants to get it down to 20 to 25 percent in the next decade. Martin said Gov. Bobby
Jindal’s newly proposed budget is vague, but he thinks that is part of its design. He said there could be an $8 million impact on students in the best possible outcome. “This is probably manageable despite the fact that some pain will come from that,” Martin said. Martin said his ultimate goal is to maintain what the University has today by moving away from state funds and toward business practices and the market. Currently, the University is prohibited by the state to adopt business practices. Martin said if the University would be free to do this, previously tested practices could reduce the cuts by about 10 percent. He also mentioned he wanted to introduce more marketing aspects to the University in areas such as football games, housing and eating options. “Let’s waste no money that can be put into the non-academic side of the institution,” Martin said. Martin also said he wants to raise tuition and make students to pay extra for class credits they take beyond 12 hours. He said the students agree higher tuition and fees today may help them in the long run, such as
in the job market they will face in uncertainty until the end of the next the future. legislative session. “We greatly “We really underprice tuition want to know and fees,” Martin what’s going on,” said. he said. “I’m hopeHe also menful we won’t be cut tioned the Pelican very much.” Promise, a UniMartin said he versity-financed plans to optimize program that gives programs at the money to familowest cost posMichael Martin lies that are 150 sible, but the Unichancellor percent within of versity has “more the federal poverty level and have immediate issues to attend to.” TOPS and scholarships. He also addressed the salary “This institution is probably more moral than others,” he said. Martin said every time tuition increases, TOPS goes up with it. In response to the decreasing rates of some grad programs, Martin said he wants to decrease their numbers so “excellence can be ensured.” He also said he wants the University to have control over deletion of programs rather than the Board of Regents’ low-completer program formula. “It’s happening beyond our reach,” Martin said. George Stanley, chemistry alumni professor who attended the forum, said he is unhappy with the
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‘We really want to know what’s going on. I’m hopeful we won’t be cut very much.’
and retention of the faculty, and he said he did not think there will be much support in raises outside of the University. Martin said the University itself may have to provide the money. “If the people out in the state appreciated the quality we have here, they would be more likely to lobby on our behalf,” he said.
Contact Meredith Will at mwill@lsureveille.com
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DAVID LYLE / The Daily Reveille
Chancellor Michael Martin discusses the University’s financial situation Wednesday at the Chancellor-Faculty Senate Forum.
Pluckers Wing Bar Mon.: $14.99 All You Can Eat Wings and $3 Pluckers Lemonades Tues.: Kids Eat Free, $3 Mexican Beers and Margaritas Wed: Trivia at 8 pm, $4.50 Mother Plucker Mugs of Bud and Miller Thurs: $15.99 All You Can Eat Wings, $4.50 Mother Plucker Mugs of Bud Light and Miller Lite, $5.50 Patron Margaritas Sun: $3 Pluckers Specialty Shots
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The Daily Reveille
page 4
CONSTRUCTION
Thursday, March 17, 2011
ANALYSIS
Jindal’s budget saves higher ed from cuts Dodson fountain gets facelift not suffer a fiscal year general fund cut this year, it did face a midyear Chief Staff Writer cut — whatever reductions have not Gov. Bobby Jindal’s budget been made to account for that cut will preserve state general funding will be made in the coming year and to higher education while making will count toward savings in Jindal’s widespread cuts across the state bu- budget. Jindal’s budget also counts $200 reaucracy, some of which will affect million in savings universities. for unfunded manThe executive dated costs. These budget, as expected, PROPOSAL / AMOUNT are costs that state includes no new SAVED programs must pay taxes. The governor without receiving has said throughout EXPENDITURE REDUCTIONS general fund monhis tenure that he • Cut funding to state agencies / ey to do so. will veto any tax inUniversity adcrease that crosses $410 million • Eliminate 4,000 positions, half of ministrators have his desk. repeatedly comWithout in- which are filled / $96 million plained that such creased tax revenue, • Annualize fiscal year ‘11 cuts / costs have caused the administration $110 million plans to fill the • Force agencies to pay unfunded budgetary damage that “doesn’t show state’s $1.6 billion mandates / $200 million up on paper.” While budget gap with re- • Do not pay annual increase to not technically ductions and other K-12 education / $105 million budget cuts, adrevenue increases. • Efficiencies throughout state ministrators argue, Most of the unfunded mandates deficit — more budget / $225 million absorb money that than $1.1 billion — would otherwise go comes from expen- REVENUE INCREASES to pay for student diture reductions. • Sell or privatize state prisons / services. The budget includes $86 million Jindal also about $410 million • Fund transfers / $241 millon of actual funding • Make state employees pay more plans to save $105 cuts to agencies for health care, retirement / $25 million by not paying out an anthroughout the state million nual increase to the budget. • Cut funding to state agencies / state’s Minimum Another $96 $410 million Foundation Promillion would be gram, which funds saved by eliminat- • Tax increases / $0 K-12 education. ing positions. That The MFP amounts to about Source: Division of Administration is constitution4,000 positions ally protected from across state government, half of which are filled. Eight general fund budget cuts, but Jindal’s hundred of those positions are slated budget withholds the traditional 2.75 percent increase to the program that for higher education. The budget also “annualizes” normally pays for things like in$110 million in cuts from this year. creased student totals and inflation. The final expenditure reduction Some cuts assigned this year take time to be implemented — these is $225 million in “efficiencies” that funds are a result of the 2011 cuts the administration says it has found or will find within state government. taking full effect. The budget also hinges on Though higher education did Matthew Albright
Renovations to include tiger head Parker Cramer Contributing Writer
The fountain in the Quad recently sprung a leak, but rather than just patching the problem, Facility Services is planning to renovate the fountain to be more like its original design. The concrete of the pool of the fountain had failed, and water was leaking into the grass and walkways, according to Bobby Pitre, executive director of Facility and Utility Operations. He said the water ‘It will be leaking created a slipworth it. ping hazard to It will be passers-by. The proja great ect cost about addition to $12,000, Pitre the quad.’ said.“It’ll be worth it,” he Bobby Pitre said. “It will be executive director, a great addition Facility and Utility to the Quad.” Operations Outside contractors have been hired to perform the renovations, which include new lights and spray links, according to Pitre. The side facing the Quad and the rear end of the fountain, which faces Dodson Auditorium, will be restored, Pitre said. A bowl in the corridor faces Dodson where many students toss cigarette butts, but it was once part of the working fountain, he said. The original design had a large tiger head above the rear bowl with water dripping down, Pitre said. In the 1930s and 1940s, the rear bowl with the tiger head was a drinking fountain, Pitre said. Facility Services plans to restore the fountain with the addition of a new tiger head. “We’d like to have it functional for the renaming of the [Agricultural] Administration Building in April,” Pitre said. The fountain once looked more professional, Pitre said, referring to the PVC pipes that currently inhabit the pool. Connor Beck, engineering freshman, said the fountain is currently an eyesore but believes it will add beauty to the Quad once it’s running again. Jenny Wyrick, communication disorders senior, said the fountain “has a lot of tradition so I’m really excited to hear they’re fixing it.”
Contact Parker Cramer at pcramer@lsureveille.com
several proposed new revenue streams. Jindal plans to make $86 million by privatizing two and selling three state prisons. The administration also plans to transfer funds worth $241 million and to raise $25 million by forcing state employees to pay more of their health care and retirement. Jindal’s budget must be approved by the Legislature, where some proposals might face serious challenges. Several legislators, most of them Democrats, sharply criticized Jindal’s budget when it was officially unveiled Friday. They said it assumes passage of several of the governor’s proposed pieces of legislation, most notably an amendment to fund TOPS. Jindal’s budget pulls general fund money from the scholarship program, making up the hole with a constitutional amendment he proposed last month that would move currently protected funds to better finance the program. Constitutional amendments require a two-thirds vote of the
Legislature and a vote of the people to pass. The TOPS amendment and prison sales plan were among several proposals legislators criticized at Friday’s hearing. Sen. Karen Carter Peterson, D-New Orleans, said she thought the budget was unconstitutional because it relies on the “contingency” of certain legislation passing. For every legislative cog in Jindal’s hypothetical budget machine that fails, Peterson argued, policymakers will have to make up the money elsewhere. Peterson and other legislators also took aim at the budget’s reliance on “efficiencies,” which they said might not be found, causing further future shortfalls. Since higher education and health care are the two largest parts of the budget available to be cut, it’s possible those two programs will suffer midyear cuts if a shortfall does exist. Contact Matthew Albright at malbright@lsureveille.com
The Daily Reveille
Thursday, March 17, 2011
page 5
RESIDENTIAL LIFE
LSU Dining aims to break monotony with theme nights, entrees
Emily Herrington Contributing Writer
LSU Dining is creating new initiatives to disrupt the routine of eating daily in the dining halls. LSU Dining began offering “premium entree nights” this month and is continuing its themed parties in the dining halls. Premium entree nights allow students to swipe their IDs twice, using two meals, to receive an “enhanced” meal, said David Heidke, LSU Dining director. “I think it’s an awesome idea because I always have a ton of leftover meals,” said Amy Broussard,
international studies freshman. Heidke said premium entree nights have featured shrimp, barbecue ribs and steaks grilled to order. The dining halls will feature another premium steak night March 24. “They’ve been very wellreceived,” said Jeri McCullough, marketing director for LSU Dining. “At the first steak night, we served more than 100 steaks at each dining hall. We ran out.” Some students have opted out of the upgrade to conserve the limited number of meals provided by their meal plans. “I don’t want to have to swipe
twice for one meal,” said Josh Commons on Tuesday and at The 5 Hamburg, undeclared freshman. on Wednesday. McCullough said LSU Dining The parties featured rock ‘n’ usually hosts one roll-themed decobig theme night rations, a dj and a each month. This specialized menu month’s event was that included fish a “retro party.” and chips, chicken “We wantpot pie and tuna ed to break up noodle casserole. the monotony,” “It’s a differHeidke said. ent, happier atmoAlejandro Gonzalez At retro parsphere,” said Aleties, students jandro Gonzalez, sociology freshman ate their meals sociology freshto the tunes of man. “It changes ’50s and ’60s classics like “My my day.” Girl” and “La Bamba” at the 459 Staff members sang and
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‘It’s a different, happier atmosphere. It changes my day.’
danced to the retro classics as they served students’ food. “Now this is real music,” said Juanita Taylor, 459 Commons employee. “It’s easy to dance to.” McCullough said recent theme nights have included a Valentine’s Day dinner and a fiesta party hosted in conjunction with the Hispanic Student Cultural Society. Dining halls will feature Irish cuisine for St. Patrick’s Day tonight, McCullough said.
Contact Emily Herrington at eherrington@lsureveille.com
BATON ROUGE COMMUNITY
Holden requests salary freeze, Metro council will decide Rachel Warren Staff Writer
East Baton Rouge MayorPresident Kip Holden sent a memo to members of the Metropolitan Council on Wednesday, urging them to freeze his salary for the next four years, according to a news release from Holden’s office. “In light of the current financial status ... and the downturn in the economy affecting our residents, I respectfully ask that you not increase my salary,” Holden said in the memo.
Scott Dyer, spokesman for Rouge are not getting salary inHolden’s office, said the issue of creases,” he said. “He’s kind of a pay increase apbeing part of the pears on the Councrowd.” cil’s agenda once Dyer said every four years. Council members The Council will vote on the will also consider issue at their meetincreasing the ing March 23. salaries of the city He said in constable and city making their deciScott Dyer court judges, an ission, members will EBR mayor-president spokesman probably consider sue that won’t be affected by Holdthe implications en’s request, Dyer said. their votes could have on future “A lot of people in Baton officials.
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‘A lot of people in Baton Rouge are not getting salary increases.’
Dyer said the decision to freeze the mayor’s salary will go into effect Jan. 1, 2013, and will remain in place for four years regardless of whether Holden is in office. “If for whatever reason he’s not elected or not in office, whoever is mayor will have to live with the freeze,” Dyer said. Dyer said he can’t be sure what the Council will ultimately decide. “I gave up trying to predict what the Council will do a long time ago,” he said. “They’re full of surprises.”
Dyer said in an e-mail Holden’s current salary is $127,672 and will increase to $131,502 in 2012. The freeze would take effect in 2013. If the Council votes not to freeze the mayor’s salary, Dyer said Holden’s salary will increase 3 percent each year, and he’ll be paid $148,006 per year by 2016.
Contact Rachel Warren at rwarren@lsureveille.com
The Daily Reveille
page 6 XTREME, from page 1
others. For example, odors and maggots from decomposing bodies that have been in a home for a while are harder cases to clean, and some of the most sensitive cases are difficult. “Anytime you have mass murders involving children, those are the ones that will stay with you,” he said. Douglas said the company has handled meth labs in Gonzales and the homicides at Southern University in February. Xtreme Cleaners cleaned the home of a hoarder in Michigan and a house damaged by Katrina in New Orleans in December for the TLC show, said Alan LeGarde, executive producer and president of Paper Route Productions. “These are extraordinary cases we followed really in depth for an entire week,” LeGarde said. LeGarde said these houses were virtually destroyed, and people were amazed by the outcome when the company was finished. LeGarde said the house in Michigan was referred to the show. Ultimate Cleaners is different from shows like “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” because people don’t write to the show looking for help, LeGarde said. These people are in danger of losing their homes, and the show is able to help them. “This isn’t the kind of thing people want others to see — that their house is in this situation,” he said. LeGarde said it is comforting for people to know there are companies and families like the Douglases to help them. He said the show currently focuses on problems like natural disaster damage or a former hoarder who needs help getting his or her house back together, but the show eventually could explore other areas of cleaning. Douglas said Xtreme Cleaners employees must undergo 10 hours of training in an Occupational Safety and Health Administration course, as well as crime scene, blood-borne pathogen, psychological and other training. Douglas said employees must perform a mock cleanup at the end of training. Xtreme Cleaners uses special tools like a neutral ozone generator and cold jet technology, which uses dry ice and pressure to sanitize, to do its job, Douglas said. The company will clean anywhere in the U.S. but is presently focused in Baton Rouge and New Hampshire for logistical reasons, according to Douglas. Mia Ferriss, physics secondary education sophomore, said the show sounds like “Sunshine Cleaning,” a movie with Amy Adams and Emily Blunt that involves crime-scene cleanup. Cat Quintana, accounting sophomore, said she thinks helping people is one of the best aspects of the show and business. “It’s especially good to help people with mental disorders like hoarding,” Quintana said.
Contact Celeste Ansley at cansley@lsureveille.com
TOGETHER LSU, from page 1
nondiscrimination clause of the equal opportunity policy, along with the resolution to form a black caucus, and Bordelon said she supports both resolutions. Wells said he voted for the gender identity resolution because he never wants to be discriminated against based on how he expresses himself, and he voted for the black caucus because of its goals to decrease the dropout rate and increase the acceptance rate of minority students at the University. “We owe it to our community to keep minority students,” Wells said.
REGENTS, from page 1
upon which LA GRAD focuses, unfairly benefit larger institutions. Third, universities would count costs based on figures calculated at the end of courses. Currently, costs are calculated after the 14th day of class. The report says end-of-class measures are more effective. This proposal will not apply to technical colleges.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Wells said while he believes in increasing the acceptance rate of minority students, he feels the best way to do so is by utilizing junior colleges and community colleges so students will have the necessary criteria for admittance to the University. Wells and Bordelon said after East Baton Rouge Mayor-President Kip Holden “revived” the downtown area, many upperclassmen refer to go to downtown bars. So Wells and Bordelon spoke to Gary Graham, the director of the Office of Parking, Traffic and Transportation, and hope to extend the bus system to downtown to “make our students safer and our community safer.” They said
switching the bus routes will not be an expense to the University. Wells and Bordelon said they have seen many administrations with initiatives to bring a farmers market to campus, which cannot happen because there is a farmers market three miles away. Thus, Wells and Bordelon have proposed a shuttle system to bring students to the farmers market. The pair said the inspiration for its campaign has come from fellow students, who made them decide to list the “Four Quarters for Charity” football game and offering part-time veteran students football tickets as initiatives. The “Four Quarters for Charity”
football game would have students collect change to donate to a charity at a football game as an example of “how students can work together for one common purpose,” Bordelon said. Wells and Bordelon said they have discussed the possibility of free football tickets for part-time veteran students with Joe Alleva, vice chancellor and director of athletics, who said it is feasible.
Finally, a maximum would be established that would limit the amount a single institution can be cut in one fiscal year. The report says that if approved, the new system should exist for at least three to five years so higher ed administrators can have some stability on which to base future budgets. The Regents voted last year to distribute funding based more on performance, the report says.
Twenty-five percent of higher education is distributed based on performance criteria, while 75 percent is distributed based on costs. During last year’s legislative session, Sen. Lydia Jackson, DShreveport, passed Senate Bill 746, which requires the Regents to report their funding formula to several legislative committees by March 15. This year, that deadline was Tuesday, when the Regents
released a proposal to consolidate New Orleans universities in an emotionally charged, several-hour-long meeting. The funding formula plan was not released until Wednesday. The new proposal will go before the Regents for approval at its meeting next week.
Contact Andrea Gallo at agallo@lsureveille.com
Contact Matthew Albright at malbright@lsureveille.com
Tiger Feed: Blogger Ryan Ginn believes Van Chancellor was forced to resign. Read more at lsureveille.com
Sports
Thursday, March 17, 2011
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
page 7
Van Chancellor steps down as coach Rachel Whittaker Sports Writer
Van Chancellor will remain on the LSU athletics staff for the last year of his contract, but not as the women’s basketball coach. Chancellor resigned Wednesday after four seasons, two days after the Lady Tigers were denied an NCAA tournament bid for the first time since 1998. He will remain with LSU for the next 14 months as a special assistant to the athletic director, said Vice Chancellor and Athletic Director Joe Alleva. “This is an agreement we made that is in the best interest of the Athletic Department and our women’s basketball program,”
Alleva said. “[Chancellor] came here at a time when we really needed his expertise, leadership and guidance. He’s leaving the program on solid, solid footing.” Chancellor, 67, inherited a Lady Tiger squad with eight seniors in 2007-08 and led the team to a 31-5 record and its fifth-straight Final Four. LSU advanced to the second round of the NCAA tournament the next two seasons before not receiving an invitation this season. LSU will have one of the best freshmen in the country on its roster next season with the arrival of 6-foot-4-inch McDonald’s AllAmerican forward Krystal Forthan. Forthan is rated the No. 5 prospect
End of an Era
in the country by ESPN HoopGurlz. “Coaches leave programs and leave the cupboard bare, but this cupboard is not bare,” Chancellor said. “It’s got an All-[Southeastern Conference] player [junior forward LaSondra Barrett] and another player that should have been AllSEC [Honorable Mention sophomore guard Adrienne Webb]. And the best player LSU signed is coming in here.” Alleva said a search for Chancellor’s replacement will begin immediately. “I have a handful of people in mind,” Alleva said. “Many of them CHANCELLOR, see page 10
BRIANNA PACIORKA / The Daily Reveille
Former LSU women’s basketball coach Van Chancellor speaks Wednesday about his resignation and his new job as a special assistant to the athletic director.
“I was staying for the staff. I was staying for some of the players. I was staying for my family. I was staying for my friends. I was doing everything for what everybody else wanted. But really this is what I wanted to do. I wanted to retire.” Yvette Girouard, LSU softball coach
Tigers pull ahead late in first road game Jones gives up six runs in 12-8 win
Softball coach Yvette Girouard’s abrupt retirement leaves players shocked I was staying for my friends,” Girouard said. “I was doing evSports Contributor erything for what everybody else Yvette Girouard has coached wanted. But really this is what I 11 seasons at LSU, won more wanted to do. I wanted to retire.” Following Girouard’s anthan 500 games and three Southeastern Conference champion- nouncement, the Tigers swept ships and taken the Tigers to two the Purple and Gold Challenge but dropped five straight to open Women’s College World Series. But when the final out of SEC play. Girouard said her the 2011 season is recorded, Gi- team’s level of play factored into her decision. rouard will close “I’m not real the book on her pleased with the coaching career right and retire. The an- Yvette Girouard’s career: product now, and I’m very nouncement came • Coached ULL 1981-2000 competitive,” Gias a shock to Gi- • Coached LSU 2001-present rouard said. “I rouard’s play- • 1,260 career wins think it’s time for ers, whom she • 29 straight winning seasons someone else to informed March take the reins.” 4 before the open- • 1990, 1993 NFCA National Coach of the Year The timing ing game of the of Girouard’s Purple and Gold • 5 WCWS trips announcement Challenge. leaves incoming “It was a really sad moment,” said junior out- recruits unsure of whom they fielder Ashley Langoni. “It was will be playing for next season. shocking to us that she was going Girouard expressed concern for to be leaving us this year. There those players and the uncertainty they might face. were a lot of tears shed.” “It’s scary for the recruits Girouard had wrestled with the decision for a couple years and the people we have comand nearly pulled the trigger after mitments for in 2012,” Girlast season. But Girouard said she ouard said. “Hopefully, they woke up one day this season and came to LSU for many reasons, and I think they did, and it will realized she was done. “I was staying for the staff. I all be OK.” was staying for some of the players. I was staying for my family. GIROUARD, see page 10
BASEBALL
Luke Johnson Sports Contributor
Hunter Paniagua
DAVID LYLE / The Daily Reveille
LSU softball coach Yvette Girouard watches players run drills Tuesday. Girouard, who has coached at LSU since 2001, will retire after completing the 2011 season.
Sandwiched between two of the No. 8 LSU baseball team’s biggest series of the season, Nicholls State wasn’t expected to provide the Tigers with much ‘We had of a challenge. But in their some first road game tremendous of the season, at-bats the Tigers (161) were down in clutch by multiple runs for much of the situations, and we game before a late scoring bar- were able rage put them to come ahead for good in a 12-8 vic- through in tory against the the end.’ Colonels (7-8). With the Paul Mainieri game knotted LSU baseball coach at eight in the eighth inning, freshman JaCoby Jones ripped an RBI triple in what proved to be the game winning hit. LSU tacked on three more runs to push its lead to 12-8. “In those later innings we had some tremendous at-bats in clutch situations, and we were able to come through in the end,” LSU coach Paul Mainieri said in a news release. Pitchers Ryan Eades and Matty Ott managed to avoid a Colonels rally, posting two scoreless innings to COLONELS, see page 10
The Daily Reveille
page 8
Thursday, March 17, 2011
FOOTBALL
CB Mathieu receives No. 7 from ‘big bro’ Peterson Rachel Whittaker Sports Writer
LSU sophomore cornerback Tyrann Mathieu calls Patrick Peterson his “big bro.” As a true freshman, Mathieu backed Peterson at the cornerback spot, and the two developed a closeness that now extends to their jersey number. Mathieu asked Peterson before spring practice if he could wear his No. 7 jersey now that Peterson is moving on to the NFL. Peterson leaves LSU as Thorpe and Bednarik Award winner and a projected top-five pick in the NFL draft, and he said he happily passed the No. 7 on to his protege. “I tell Tyrann he’s going to do more and better things than what I did when I was here,” Peterson said. “And he’s starting at such a young age, so he’s definitely got a chance to do better than Patrick Peterson. He’s going to represent No. 7 well.” Mathieu came to LSU in 2010 as the No. 13-ranked cornerback in the nation and the No. 9 prospect in Louisiana by Rivals.com. He played in 12 games last season, with one start against Louisiana-Monroe, and finished fourth on the team with 57 tackles en route to earning Freshman All-Southeastern Conference and Rivals First-Team Freshman All-America honors. Mathieu said he and Peterson
DAVID LYLE / The Daily Reveille
LSU sophomore cornerback Tyrann Mathieu (14) intercepts a pass Jan. 7 in Cowboy’s Stadium during the Cotton Bowl. Mathieu will get the No. 7 from his “big bro,” former LSU cornerback Patrick Peterson.
both had high expectations for his freshman season, even though Mathieu flew under the radar as a recruit from St. Augustine High School in New Orleans. “[Peterson] really took me under his wing when I got here as a true freshman during the summer,” Mathieu said. “He’s pushed me to be better than him. Getting his number is a real gift.” Peterson told Mathieu he
wants the secondary he’s leaving behind to form their own legacy. “I don’t want those guys to live in my shadow,” Peterson said. “They’re like my brothers.” Mathieu begins spring practice this season as a starter in the secondary alongside junior cornerback Morris Claiborne. He said he has been largely at the cornerback spot, and he’ll also be featured in nickel packages once practices get rolling.
SOFTBALL
Tigers’ implosion continues with 7-0 loss at Southern Mississippi
David Helman Sports Contributor
The slump continues. The No. 25 LSU softball team’s recent losing streak inflated to six games Wednesday, as the toothless Tigers (15-11) were blanked, 7-0, by Southern Miss. “Nothing’s going on right now,” said LSU coach Yvette Girouard. “We’re a team that’s lost in the desert.” The loss comes on the heels of LSU’s first-ever 0-5 start in Southeastern Conference play, a stat that can be attributed to the Tigers’ opening conference opponents — No. 2 Florida and No. 1 Georgia. This latest setback is a bit more perplexing, as the Golden Eagles (913) were losers of eight straight before the game. “It looks like we’ve lost all confidence after that week,” Girouard said. “We can’t manage a hit with a runner in scoring position.” That wasn’t a problem Southern Miss experienced, as the Golden Eagles’ batters made LSU pay every single time they reached the bases. Southern Miss managed all seven runs on just seven hits. The bulk of the damage came in a five-run inning that saw the Golden Eagles knock in five runs on three
hits to turn a 2-0 game into a 7-0 runaway. USM junior left fielder Michelle Takeda dominated the Tigers’ pitching, as she went 2-for-3 from the plate with two RBIs and a walk. The Tigers’ pitching didn’t fare much better against the rest of the USM lineup, as LSU’s staff continued its recent dip in performance. Freshman Meghan Patterson (5-1) picked up her first loss in a 3 2/3 inning effort. Patterson allowed three runs on five hits, giving her a 6.56 ERA on the night. That said, she still managed to record nine of her 11 outs via strikeout. “She was off. She was high in the zone,” Girouard said. “She had a problem giving up hits with two outs, and she gave up a crucial home run.” That homer came from USM freshman third baseman Brittany Lilly, who opened up the Golden Eagles’ 2-0 lead in the second with a solo shot to left field. Lilly was the second USM batter with a multi-RBI game, as she also knocked two RBIs on a 1-for-3 night from the plate. Junior Brittany Mack pitched 2 1/3 innings in relief, surrendering four runs on two hits before being replaced by Patterson in the fifth. Mack allowed both of her hits and one run during USM’s five-run fifth,
when she was replaced by Patterson. The Tigers’ lineup couldn’t manage much against USM sophomore Beth Dietrich (5-6), who went the distance and allowed just four hits in a complete game win. “It’s a horrible excuse, but it seems like the offense just falls apart when the pitching isn’t strong,” Girouard said. With No. 24 Kentucky coming to Baton Rouge this weekend, Girouard said the Tigers face the problem of needing the lineup to carry team while the pitchers regroup. “It obviously hasn’t,” she said. “We have to start hitting the ball better. We have to start scoring runs.” Contact David Helman at dhelman@lsureveille.com
His roommate is fellow sophomore defender Eric Reid, a safety from Dutchtown High School in Geismar. Reid said Mathieu’s confidence and memory are his biggest assets on the football field. “He’s definitely got confidence out of this world,” Reid said. “We knew that the summer before the season started as soon as we got here and did 7-on-7s. He’s the perfect [defensive back] as far as
memory because if he messes up, he’s got that amnesia.” Mathieu ended his freshman campaign with a bang Jan. 7 in the Cotton Bowl against Texas A&M. He was named the Most Outstanding Defensive Player after recording one interception, two forced fumbles, a fumble recovery and seven tackles, including a sack. Mathieu attributed his effective play to his quick instincts, and he said his role on the team already feels different as a starter. “Right now I’m learning that being a starter is a challenge,” Mathieu said. “Your job gets harder on and off the field. You have to be a leader first and pull guys along. You just can’t push guys to the side if they don’t know certain things.” Reid also had an interception in the Cotton Bowl and said the defense is well aware of the shoes they have to fill with Peterson’s departure. But with a year of experience under their belts, Reid said he and Mathieu are already focusing on improving their alignments. “The expectations are so high, but we can do it,” Reid said. “Last year we knew where to be, but now we know how to anticipate different things based on formations and receivers, the tricks veterans know.” Contact Rachel Whittaker at rwhittaker@lsureveille.com
The Daily Reveille
Thursday, March 17, 2011
TENNIS
Lady Tigers crush Iowa, Grambling Men face No. 16 Michigan today Hunt Palmer Sports Contributor
LSU women’s tennis coach Tony Minnis’ team is hot. The Lady Tigers (7-6, 3-1) extended their winning streak to five matches on Wednesday, knocking off Iowa and Grambling State in a doubleheader at W.T. “Dub” Robinson Stadium. After a weekend sweep of Ole Miss and Mississippi State, the Lady Tigers picked up right where they left off, taking all three doubles matches from Iowa and clinching their fifth doubles point in their last six tries. Sophomore Ebie Wilson and freshman Ariel Morton took down Iowa’s Ally Majercik and Cassandra Escobar, 8-3, and freshman Keri Frankenberger teamed up with sophomore Yvette Vlaar to beat
Lynne Poggensee-Wei and Alexis Dorr and secure the early 1-0 lead. LSU’s second and third points followed quickly. Frankenberger and Vlaar cruised to straight set wins, dropping a combined four games in four sets. Minnis’ squad had to work for the fourth and decisive point. Sophomore Kaitlin Burns prevailed in a second-set tiebreaker, taking down Jessica Young, 6-2, 7-6, and the Hawkeyes. “[Iowa] made the NCAA tournament last year, and they return a lot of their players,” Minnis said. “I’ve got to give these kids credit — they’re really stepping up and playing some good tennis.” Wilson and Morton followed suit with straight-set victories following a loss by junior Whitney Wolf to make the final score 6-1. In the nightcap, LSU never gave Grambling any hope. Grambling, who brought just five players to Baton Rouge, forfeited court three in doubles, but
courts one and two didn’t fare much better. LSU took both matches, 8-0. In singles, the Lady Tigers rolled to five more straight sets wins, dropping just three total games. The Lady Tigers return to “The Dub” on Friday afternoon when No. 23 Tulsa visits Baton Rouge. The LSU men’s tennis team continues its homestand today when it hosts No. 16 Michigan at 1 p.m. The Tigers split a pair of home matches with Ole Miss and Mississippi State during the weekend, losing Sunday’s tilt with the Bulldogs. “They were disappointed,” said LSU men’s coach Jeff Brown. “We’re excited to have a shot at a good team.” Michigan enters the contest at 7-4, fresh off of a loss against No. 27 Tulsa in Ann Arbor, Mich.
Contact Hunt Palmer at hpalmer@lsureveille.com
SWIMMING AND DIVING
Women’s team heads to nationals Albert Burford Sports Contributor
The No. 18 LSU women’s swimming team is sending its largest group of athletes to the NCAA Championships in more than 15 years. Eight Lady Tigers will swim in the Championships, held in Austin, Texas, and one alternate is also making the trip. The meet runs Thursday through Saturday at the University of Texas’ Jamail Swimming Center. However, for LSU swimming coach David Geyer, making it to nationals is only half the battle. “One of our team goals at the beginning of the year was to be top 15 in the nation,” Geyer said. “I think that’s very attainable. I think above that is attainable.” The program hasn’t finished in the top 15 at the NCAA Championships since 1993, but the Lady Tigers’ performance at the Southeastern Conference Championships has
things looking pretty good going into nationals. The Lady Tigers notched a fifthplace finish while winning 14 medals, breaking 12 program records and one SEC record and earning seven swimmers spots on the All-SEC teams. The team’s performance was its strongest SEC finish in 10 seasons. The Lady Tigers will look to score big in the 200-yard freestyle relay and the 200-yard medley relay. The team is seeded in the top eight of both events. While the relays count for twice as many points as individual events, Geyer stressed the importance of the individual events as well, saying that being able to compete in relays as well as individual events is an exciting prospect for the swimmers. Senior Jane Trepp and sophomore Amanda Kendall are attempting to continue the success of the team from the SEC Championships at nationals. Both swimmers are seeded in the top eight in all three of
their individual races. While this competition will mark Trepp’s third NCAA Championships, two members are making their first trip to the meet for the Lady Tigers. Freshman Torrey Bussey and Cari Blalock both broke LSU records at SEC Championships and are competing in individual events at nationals. Freshman Rainey White is also making the trip as the team alternate. In addition to Kendall, a host of sophomores are competing for the Lady Tigers in Austin, including Jana Ruimerman and Sara Haley. Geyer said he is encouraged by the Lady Tigers’ impressive youth. “To have freshman and sophomores making the meet is big,” Geyer said. “Not only making it, but qualifying as individuals is a huge accomplishment.” Contact Albert Burford at aburford@lsureveille.com
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The Daily Reveille
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GIROUARD, from page 7
finish the game. Junior pitcher Tyler Jones — who came into the game with a sterling 2.84 ERA and a 3-0 record this season — didn’t help LSU’s cause early. Jones didn’t record an out in a six-run first inning for the Colonels, as he allowed two hits and three walks before being lifted in favor of freshman Joe ‘The story Broussard. Despite reof the game lieving Jones in was the the first inning, performance Broussard saved the LSU bullpen of with six strong [freshman innings of relief holding pitcher] Joe work, the Colonels to Broussard.’ one run on five Paul Mainieri hits with seven LSU baseball coach strikeouts. “The story of the game was the performance of Joe Broussard,” Mainieri said. “Tyler Jones just didn’t have it, but Joe came in and pitched amazingly well, and I thought he really inspired our lineup.” Before his six innings of relief work against Nicholls, Broussard’s longest outing of his college career was 1 2/3 innings. Broussard’s performance was needed, as the LSU offense was playing catch up for much of the early part of the game. The Tigers fought back with three runs in both the third and sixth innings while Broussard was stifling the Nicholls State bats, but LSU just couldn’t seem to put the pesky Colonels away. After snagging its first lead of the game with the three-run sixth, Nicholls scored its first run since the first inning to tie the ballgame at seven. LSU came right back in the seventh inning with back-to-back base hits by juniors Tyler Hanover and Mikie Mahtook, with Hanover scoring on a triple by Mahtook. But Nicholls continued to stride evenly with the Tigers. LSU freshman pitcher Jimmy Dykstra (3-0) picked up the win in relief despite allowing a run in the bottom of the seventh, The Tigers collected 15 hits in the game, with eight of nine starters collecting at least one hit.
In her time at LSU, Girouard has made LSU a national power and saw the creation of Tiger Park, one of the nation’s premier softball stadiums. But Girouard said she wants to be remembered for how she treated her players and not just her success on the field. “It’s my job to make them better than when they got here,” Girouard said. “It’s my job to make them stronger women, and hopefully I’ve done that so they can handle anything in their future.” Girouard began her coaching career in 1981 at her alma mater, Louisiana-Lafayette. She created the school’s softball program, oftentimes having to raise thousands of dollars just to field a team. She became the new coach of the Tigers in 2001, taking them to the Women’s College World Series in her first season. Since then she has been inducted into the National Fastpitch Coaches Association Hall of Fame and has been named SEC Coach of the Year three times. “She’s definitely a legend,” said junior first baseman Anissa Young said. “Not just at LSU but in softball history. I think she’s an amazing coach.” LSU has not yet named a replacement for Girouard. She said administrators have sought her advice, but she doesn’t want to be involved in the process of finding a new coach. Young said she’s unsure of how the program will fare without Girouard at the helm. “You have to play it by ear,” Young said. “You can’t really say what’s to come. We’re going to take the lessons that Coach Girouard taught us, and hopefully we’ll be able to use the skills that she gave us and move forward with that.” The only certainty is Girouard will not be coaching next season. She appears adamant in the finality of that decision. “The end was in my sights for a long time. ... There’s no going back,” Girouard said. “The administration asked me to really think about it, but there’s no going back.”
Contact Luke Johnson at ljohnson@lsureveille.com
Contact Hunter Paniagua at hpaniagua@lsureveille.com
CHANCELLOR, from page 7
are playing in the NCAA tournament right now. ... My timetable is to get the best person.” Associate Sports Information director Bill Martin said Chancellor’s salary will drop from $660,000
to $250,000 starting July 1. When asked what his administrative position will involve, Chancellor responded jokingly. “I hope it entails a lot of golf. ... I’m going to be willing to do anything they want me to do as long as it involves golf,” he said. “I
Thursday, March 17, 2011
might try broadcasting again. ... If I have the bug for coaching, I’m going to try the WNBA after I finish this year at LSU.” Contact Rachel Whittaker at rwhittaker@lsureveille.com
Thursday, March 17, 2011
HOLIDAY
BR goes all out for St. Patty’s Day Kittu Pannu Entertainment Writer
Though the Mississippi River may not turn green in honor of the Irish patron saint, Baton Rouge celebrations for St. Patrick’s Day are substantial enough to make Baton Rouge residents Irish for the weekend. With parades, block parties and the ever-present bar night, the unofficial early weekend presents many outlets for students to celebrate. In downtown Baton Rouge, Happy’s Irish Pub will celebrate its Irish heritage from 10 a.m. today until 2 a.m. for patrons 21 and older. “We’re obviously going above and beyond,” said Andrew Bayard, Happy’s general manager. “We love doing this event because it’s our one day of the year to blow it out.” Happy’s will have live entertainment all Thursday evening. “We’re going to have bands, live entertainment outside the whole day,” Bayard said. “We’ve got David Fournet, Jason Martin and then the band Furr from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.” Happy’s will feature Irish Car Bomb toasts at noon, 6 p.m. and midnight. Everyone at the bar will participate, Bayard said. “We’ve done it every year, and we’re one of the more authentic Irish pubs in Baton Rouge,” Bayard said. “Our slogan for the day is ‘Everybody’s Irish here.’” Another downtown location, the Center for Planning Excellence on the second floor of Shaw Center of the Arts, will host its “Red Stick Green Drinks” event, a happy hour social for environmentally conscious patrons to drink and converse about green ideas, said Jennifer Stenhouse, outreach manager for CPEX. Dylan Barclay, history
Entertainment
page 11
Spirits o’ the Irish BR bars are celebrating St. Patty’s with drink specials. Here are just a few:
HAPPY’S IRISH PUB •$5 car bombs •$3 Jameson, Bushnell, Bailey’s Irish Creme doubles •$5 Happy Hooligans
FRED’S •Ladies drink free 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. •10 p.m. to 2 a.m. - $4 Irish car bombs, Fred’s bombs, Vegas bombs - $4 Jameson doubles •12 a.m. - 2 a.m. - $2 shots
ZIPPY’S •$2 Jello Shots •$2 green beer •$2.50 doubles, margaritas, some bottled beers
FOX AND HOUND •$2 Abita drafts •$3 Green Bud and Bud Light Big Beers •$4 Jack Daniel’s U-Call-Its •$4 Killian’s Green beer will be on tap at The Chimes. photo by ADAM VACCARELLA / The Daily Reveille
ST. PATTY’S, see page 15
FASHION
Neutrals, f lorals on trend for spring Local boutiques carry new, fresh styles Cathryn Core Entertainment Writer
Students have come out of their cozy study burrows in search of crisp air, green grass and sunshine, which means sweats are out, and the time to whip out saucy spring wardrobes has arrived. From florals to neutrals, flower child to chic hipster, the hottest looks this season are available at
numerous locally owned boutiques all over the city. And with the guidance of some of the city’s most fashionable women in retail, this spring’s looks are easy to nab. Kelsey Rypl, University alumna and manager of Rodeo Boutique on Highland Road, said neutrals with a pop of color and loose-fitting clothing are big trends this season. “Most of our bags are neutral tones, like a canvas brown and have detailing in bright yellow or bright turquoise,” she said. “Another trend is definitely the flowy, boxy, shortsleeved T-shirt look. Nothing very fitted is in at all.”
With the rising temperatures come shorter hemlines, Rypl said. “The shirts are getting a little bit shorter, too,” she said. “I know for a while everything was very long, but things are definitely getting shorter in length.” Rypl said the neutral color scheme applies to clothing as well as handbags, but she prefers to use accessories for a pop of color in her wardrobe.
See more photos of spring fashions at lsureveille.com. SPRING, see page 14
SHAINA HUNTSBERRY / The Daily Reveille
Kelsey Rypl, manager of Rodeo Boutique, organizes clothes at the store March 9.
The Daily Reveille
page 12
Thursday, March 17, 2011
LITERATURE & ART
Delta Mouth Festival presents finest US authors, artists Cathryn Core Entertainment Writer
Students looking to expand their horizons of literary knowledge can get their fix at Chelsea’s Cafe and Ephemeral Gallery through a two-night special event featuring award-winning local, national and international writers and artists. The Delta Mouth Festival kicks off tonight at Chelsea’s at
7 p.m. and will continue through Friday at Ephemeral Gallery with performances from an array of novelists, poets, short story writers, performance artists and raconteurs. John David Harding, University creative writing graduate student and coordinator of the Delta Mouth Festival, said the event enables the literary community to thrive. “This is the third annual Delta Mouth,” he said. “It is definitely
growing and reaching a wider audience each year. As we become more visible — we’re able to bring in new artists and more attention to the Baton Rouge literary community as a whole.” The event is sponsored by the New Delta Review, the University’s graduate literary magazine, Harding said. “How it works is we make up a list of writers we want from all over
THEATER
Outworks teaches sexual tolerance
Jeanne Lyons Entertainment Writer
Outworks 2011 extends an invitation of love through the festival’s seven short plays based on themes of different sexualities in the Music and Dramatic Arts Studio Theatre. Celebrating Outworks’ sixth year, the festival offers an uplifting and positive outlook on acceptance of different sexualities, including lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender, and “erases the lines between ‘us’ and ‘them,’” according to a Theatre Department news release. The show runs through Sunday with performances at 7:30 p.m. each night and at both 2 p.m. and 7:30 on Sunday. “Outworks is an invitation to love. It contains seven short plays that invite the audience to witness a different kind of love from a different perspective,” said Sarah Ford, theater senior. Ford directs “Leave Me Alone,” a piece about two boys struggling with their sexual identities and relationship. Annemarie Stassi, University theater performance alumna, coordinated Outworks 2011. She participated in the festival three years in a row while attending the University. Stassi said it’s been a great experience coming back and coordinating the festival. “Outworks sends love to anyone who’s ever doubted that they’re deserving of it, especially people who’ve been hated for the way that they love,” Stassi said. “Everyone has so much to give.” This year marks the first year Outworks presents seven cohesive plays rather than six individual plays. Along with coordinating Outworks, Stassi also directs “The Queen Without His Crown,” the opening monologue about a lack of love felt by the main character Charlie, and “If a Ball Could Dream.” “The rest of the plays in the
DAVID LYLE / The Daily Reveille
Emily Rodriguez and Mercedes Wilson rehearse Outworks, which features gay, lesbian and transgender themes. It runs through Sunday with performances at 7:30 each night.
festival respond to Charlie’s lack of love,” Stassi said. Charlie doesn’t like anything about himself and doesn’t accept his sexuality, so all the characters throughout the performances tell their stories to him and change the framework of his mind and invite him to be loving of himself, Stassi said. Kat Barry, president of Spectrum, a University organization formed to increase awareness of needs and concerns of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer students, said the organization is bringing a delegation of members to see the performance. “Spectrum likes to support Outworks because it’s great they do that on campus,” Barry said. “I would love to increase our involvement with Outworks since the club has access to lots of people interested in what Outworks does.” Barry said Outworks is really exciting, especially at a place like the University because they can have a week-long production of themes and a subject that doesn’t receive much attention on campus. She said protests are great, but Outworks is refreshing because it brings positive and exciting energy without the negative association. Kaitlyn Stockwell, theater performance senior, worked with Outworks twice in the past. She directs “Second Kiss,” based on a
16-year-old confused with her sexuality. Stockwell chose the piece because she wanted something lighthearted and easily relatable but something that she could play with aesthetically. “We decided early on that the festival would be an invitation for people who see the show to jump on board and be loving and open to homosexuality, especially with everything going on with issues like gay marriage and ‘Don’t Ask Don’t Tell,’” Stockwell said. “The Outworks Festival will be a fun experience that’s also important to the community.” Stockwell suggests having an open mind and embracing the performances of Outworks. “Throughout the entire process, all the directors, actors and designers emphasized love as the main point of the production,” Stockwell said. Stockwell hopes audiences come to see the show with that same love and also hopes it will be a positive experience for viewers, just as it been a positive experience creating Outworks. “Change is happening, and we’re inviting people to be a part of this loving movement,” Stassi said.
Contact Jeanne Lyons at jlyons@lsureveille.com
the country, and I contact them to see if they’re interested in participating, and if they are, then we figure out a way to get them down here,” he said. Harding said students shouldn’t pass up the event. “It’s a good opportunity for LSU students to hear some of the best writers working today, to be exposed to some writers that they’ve never heard of or maybe
aren’t familiar with, but who are doing some really great work,” he said.
More about the exciting lineup at lsureveille.com Contact Cathryn Core at ccore@lsureveille.com
The Daily Reveille
Thursday, March 17, 2011
THE PRICE IS RIGHT
page 13
EXTREME SPORTS
BR’s Red Stick Roller Derby gets one step closer to national rank Taylor Balkom Entertainment Writer
ADAM VACCARELLA / The Daily Reveille
ImagineIAM performs Saturday at Carl Macks during the Foburg music festival in New Orleans. The event lasted three days and took place primarily on Frenchmen Street.
Foburg delivers a fun change of pace in festival experience Advertising itself as an “alternative” music festival, Foburg promised concert goers a unique showcase of local Louisiana alternative bands, as well as national touring artists on their way to the South By Southwest festival in Austin, Texas. And boy Andrew Price did it deliver. Entertainment The majorWriter ity of performances took place in New Orleans bars lining Frenchmen Street, as well as a few venues off Frenchmen like Hi-Ho Lounge and One Eyed Jacks. As enjoyable as pitching a tent and camping out at a more traditional outdoor festival is, barhopping from show to show at Foburg was a unique and exciting change of pace. And barhopping was definitely the theme of the weekend. Multiple bands played at the same time in different bars — those trying to see as many performances as possible ran from one end of Frenchmen to the other. The only downside to the festival location was the strain on my wallet after spending three days in nine different bars from 8 p.m. to 4 a.m. By far, the most well-attended performance was Das Racist on Saturday night at the Maison. The building houses two stages on the first floor and one upstairs, so the audience area is relatively small. The crowd squeezed so closely together that by the end of the show we had all been groped in every place imaginable by people just struggling to move. Our determination to ignore the growing smell of one another’s late-night-bar body odor paid off when Das Racist finally took the stage. Not known for its serious
attitude, Das Racist delivered a show that was explosive, chaotic and brilliant simultaneously. As amazing as Das Racist was, however, the best performance of the weekend was without a doubt by Lafayette-based indie rockers Brass Bed. As a Lafayette native I was familiar with the band and its music, but it had been several years since I had the opportunity to see the them perform live. What I witnessed at Foburg completely blew my mind. The quality of the music and the band’s use of electronic sound effects was impressive, but the raw energy and emotion of their live performance was what floored me. I found lead guitarist Jonny Campos comparable to guitar legend Jack White several times during the show. Headlining acts GIVERS and Ra Ra Riot received high praise for their performances, but I chose to attend two recommended performances by unfamiliar bands — Modern Skirts and Vox and the Hound. Hailing from Athens, Ga., Modern Skirts combined indie, pop and country influences into one incredible show. The performance featured songs from recently released album “Gramahawk,” which the band recorded in New Orleans. Several members switched instruments multiple times, and at no point was I less than blown away. Vox and the Hound is a homegrown New Orleans indie band that played its first show last year at Foburg, so it was only fitting that it returned this year to rock the house yet again. Foburg was a fantastic experience — I hope to continue to attend it in the future.
Contact Andrew Price at aprice@lsureveille.com
The Baton Rouge River Center could be filled to capacity Saturday, but it won’t be for a graduation or a concert. Red Stick Roller Derby is returning to the track for its second home doubleheader of the season. This season, the RSRD is part of the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association’s Apprentice Leagues, a program designed to help new roller derby leagues gain momentum and eventually become a fullfledged WFTDA league, according to blocker/jammer Caroline Ficara. Ficara, whose derby name is Heidi Volatile, has been a member since the league’s formation. She said the current goal of the group is to become a WFTDA league. “WFTDA is like our NBA,” Ficara said. “If we get that status, then we can compete regionally and then nationally.” If RSRD succeeds in becoming a WFTDA league, it would be the second league in the state, after the New Orleans Big Easy Rollergirls. The league has also dramatically changed since its inception in 2007. Caitlin “Rock Bottom” Cleveland, family, child and consumer sciences junior at the University, said RSRD has grown “significantly.” “[The league] has gotten a lot more organized,” Cleveland said. “When the movie ‘Whip It’ was released, we got a lot of new members. They had to start going through training before playing with the veteran players.” RSRD is now split into two teams: the Diables Rouges and the Capital Defenders. The unity that comes with being a roller derby skater attracts a lot of people to the sport. “[Roller derby] introduced me to some of the coolest people I’ve ever met,” said Haley Sibley, French sophomore. Ficara loves the sportsmanship that comes with roller derby. “It’s all business on the track,” Ficara said. “But the second it’s over, everyone gets along great. There is a real camaraderie between all the girls.” Ficara also said roller derby is a great way to blow off steam. “You have a bad day at work, and all you hope for is that tonight is a full-contact practice,” Ficara said.
CHRISTOPHER LEH / The Daily Reveille
Two players shove each other during practice Tuesday for the Red Stick Roller Derby league. RSRD will be the second league in the state if it joins the WFTDA.
Sibley said skating is an effective stress reliever when you get to “skate really fast” and run into people. “It got me into fantastic shape,” Sibley said. “Yet it was so much fun, I rarely even realized I was working out.” RSRD said other than becoming a WFTDA league, the group’s other goal is to have the sport taken more seriously. “It’s nice to be recognized as
an actual sport,” Ficara said. “You should be proud of what you’re playing.” The Diables Rouges play the Beach Brawl SK8R Dolls, and the Capital Defenders play the Magnolia Roller Vixens on Saturday at the Baton Rouge River Center.
Contact Taylor Balkom at tbalkom@lsureveille.com
The Daily Reveille
page 14 SPRING, from page 11
“I’m really liking the brightcolored handbags and accessories because a lot of these styles are neutral, and it’s a good way to spice up an outfit,” she said. Though the loose-fitting style is all the rage at the moment, some women are fighting the trend, Rypl said. “One thing that I’ve been noticing is that people who are very, very petite don’t necessarily like the boxy look because they have a cute little figure, and the less-fitted look doesn’t allow them to see their shape,” she said. “That might be one downside to the boxy look, but people are cinching the waist with a skinny belt so they can get the shape they’re looking for.” Rypl said Rodeo’s target market is college students, and the boutique has comfortable and cool spring looks for class-going kids. “A lot of students buy these big, tunic tops and they’ll either pair them with cutoff shorts or leggings, because they’re comfortable to wear to class,” she said. “We do carry jersey knit dresses, and a lot of people will throw those on when the weather really starts to warm up.” There aren’t many trends that are completely “out,” Rypl said, but ankle-length maxi dresses and rompers are heading that way. Rypl said she has an ideal spring outfit that is easily accessible. “I would definitely do a pair of wedges, one of the boxy shirts, a pair of cutoff jeans and big jewelry — big necklace, stacked up bangles and even a watch, because watches are very popular, too,” she said. Victoria Wood, international studies sophomore and sales associate at Tattle Tales on Highland Road, said floral patterns and ruffles are making a comeback this spring. “There are always a lot of really fun floral patterns that come around during spring, and that’s what we have coming in right now,” she said. “A really big trend for shoes is the nude-colored heels because they make your legs look longer.” Wood said she likes a look that she can easily dress up or down. “My favorite look is probably a decorative tank and skinny jeans,” she said. “All you have to do is add heels and jewelry and you’re good for going out, or pair them with flats and you can wear it to work.” Big, decorative watches are still on top of the accessory musthave list, Wood said, but there’s another more traditional spring necessity. “I think the best accessory is a really cute pair of sandals,” she said. Wood said there’s a change in shapes this season. “I’ve been seeing a lot of drop waists in dresses where the waistline is just a little bit lower,” she said. “I’ve been seeing a lot of offthe-shoulder dresses too.” Leah Gray, University alumna and owner of Aristocracy, one of the only men’s boutiques in Baton Rouge, said the nautical look is the way to go for men this season. “We’re seeing anchors everywhere — anything from anchor necklaces to anchors on T-shirts,” she said. “Colored rain jackets are big. Anything nautical is big.
photos by SHAINA HUNTSBERRY / The Daily Reveille
Spring accessories, shoes and outfits line the shelves of Rodeo Boutique on Highland.
Chinos are big. Not just khakis — like reds and blues and greens are really in.” Gray said men are going oldschool with their bathing suits this spring. “One big change this season is the swim trunks are all a little bit shorter,” she said. “Most brands are barely offering below-the-knee board shorts anymore. They’re all right above the knee, probably about an inch shorter or two or three inches shorter.” Gray said men should keep it simple with fall neutrals and a bit of
color here and there. “I would say have a pair of colored chinos or khakis cuffed with a solid V-neck and maybe throw on a spring scarf with a pair of boots,” she said. “Spring jackets are in right now, too, even though it’s 100 degrees in the spring and summer here, like a lightweight blazer and a colorful pocket square.”
Contact Cathryn Core at ccore@lsureveille.com
Thursday, March 17, 2011
The Daily Reveille
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Reveille Ranks
“Red Riding Hood”
ST. PATTY’S, from page 11 Warner Bros.
“Red Riding Hood” presents a grim coming-of-age tale, but it lacks poignancy and conviction. Valerie (Amanda Seyfried) is a beautiful young woman torn between love of her life, Peter, and an arranged marriage to wealthy villager, Henry. Unwilling to live without each other, Valerie and Peter plan to run away together until her older sister becomes the victim of the illusive werewolf, wreaking havoc throughout the village. Even though the film succeeded in the box office this weekend, audiences will not get the bang for their buck with this film.
[D]
JEANNE LYONS
“Battle: Los Angeles”
Relativity Media
“Battle: Los Angeles” proves that even the most plotless movies can still be sugarcoated when a good director is behind the camera. The film struggles with terrible dialogue and too many characters while reaching to win the audience’s empathy. The hit is a strain on actor Aaron Eckhart’s near-flawless acting record, but artist Ne-Yo does relatively well in his first real acting job. Overall, if elaborate action sequences and explosions galore are your thing, the movie is for you. But if you like movies with depth, don’t waste your money.
[D+]
KITTU PANNU
Duran Duran, “All You Need Is Now”
IK7
Duran Duran’s new album, “All You Need Is Now,” isn’t exactly a stellar set of tunes in itself. But if listeners can channel some of the superstar band’s older, greater hits, the sound is much more bearable. Not that change is crucial, but the album really doesn’t do much but recreate some of the golden oldies in a much less appealing fashion to the point where one might wonder if the album should be titled something along the lines of “Been There Done That, But We’re Doing it Again.”
[C]
CATHRYN CORE
Rise Against, “Endgame”
DGC, Interscope
After a two-year hiatus, Rise Against is back with its latest effort, “Endgame.” The album is neither as hardcore as the band’s early work nor as mellow as its last album, “Appeal to Reason,” which makes it easily accessible to new listeners. The beats are fast, the lyrics have meaning and the songs are well designed overall. Rise Against has the band’s strong political views infused in its songs, but this shouldn’t be a reason to insult the album. Overall, it is a very good album that is totally worth a purchase.
[A]
TAYLOR BALKOM
Lupe Fiasco, “Lasers”
Atlantic Records
After a long battle with Atlantic Records, Lupe Fiasco has finally released his third studio album, “Lasers.” Though the album is certainly — and somewhat disappointingly — nowhere near the level of his 2007 concept album “The Cool,” it is still full of witty and sometimes utopian lyrics and beats. Certain songs like “Out of My Head” try too hard to be pop-rap radio singles. But some of the best songs on the album, like “Beautiful Lasers” and the politically charged “Words I Never Said,” show Fiasco’s full potential as one of rap’s best lyricists.
[B-]
ANDY SCHWEHM
“Mars Needs Moms”
Walt Disney Productions
A dismal film with no humor and an abysmal plot, “Mars Needs Moms” is yet another example of a film that sacrificed quality in every area possible in favor of expensive cuttingedge animation. Instead of capitalizing on a cute premise and quality cast members like Seth Green and Joan Cusack, the film presents the audience with freakish-looking digital versions of the actors that, in the case of the Martians, scare more than impress. There are about two jokes in the entire movie, and neither is funny at all.
[F]
ANDREW PRICE
EDITOR’S PICK: Matt Wertz, “Weights and Wings” Nettwerk Records
Singer-songwriter Matt Wertz’s fifth studio album “Weights and Wings” is filled with upbeat, acoustic but ultimately bland songs destined to serve as background music on shows like “Grey’s Anatomy.” The 11 tracks on the album are light and float by without much notice. Only the track “Nobody’s You” stands out, where Wertz sings with some grit and passion. Wertz comes off as likeable but ultimately forgettable on “Weights and Wings.”
GRACE MONTGOMERY
[B-]
freshman, said low-key events are more fun. “St. Patty’s Day is a huge party, but after a midterms week like this, the less people, the better it will be,” Barclay said. The event promotes synergistic learning and is a great time, Stenhouse said. The event will feature products from local businesses including Kleinpeter Farms Dairy, Tin Roof Brewing Company and Oakland Organic. “It’s a worldwide event,” Stenhouse said. “This time the theme is ‘Keeping it local,’ so we have ice cream from Kleinpeter’s ... and kale and greens from Oakland.” While these events are today only, Perkins Road will light up Saturday with the Schlittzapalooza 2011 block party and the 26th annual St. Patrick’s Day parade. “Schlittzapalooza 2011 is a huge block party where we block off
page 15 Ferndale Street, and it will encompass two DJs and three bands,” said Alicia Wise, Schlittz and Giggles manager. “It’s open to people of all ages.” Schlittz and Giggles believes the popularity of the parade will help attract more patrons to the block party. “St. Patrick’s Day is a huge deal over here, so it’s a one-year anniversary for us and a Patty’s Day extravaganza,” Wise said. “It’s on the parade route, and we start at 7 a.m. with the bands playing til midnight.” Of course, there is the St. Patrick’s Day parade, where students can familiarize themselves with one of Baton Rouge’s older traditions. “Along the parade route, there are a multitude of family reunions going on,” said Pat Shingleton, parade founder and chief forecaster at WBRZ. “It’s the day. It’s our heritage. I’d like people to recognize the fact that St. Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland. It’s not just about drinking and
having a great time.” University students past and present play a role in making the day special, said Mabyn Shingleton, float coordinator. “The old LSU alumni band will be participating on a float playing their instruments,” Mabyn said. “We even have some fraternities and the Kappa Delta sorority helping. The sorority has a food booth set up on the route.” Baton Rouge will be full with vigor, parties and celebrations in Tigerland, on Corporate Boulevard, Perkins Road and downtown. Other venues include Chelsea’s Cafe, Fred’s Bar in Tigerland, Fox & Hound English Pub and The Chimes Restaurant and Tap Room. The Chimes will have green beer and Irish beer specials, according to Patrick Higgins, general manager. Contact Kittu Pannu at kpannu@lsureveille.com
The Daily Reveille
Opinion
page 16
SHOW ALL COMMENTS As usual, the Opinion Section of our website, lsureveille.com, has been absolutely buzzing with reader comments. Check it out today, and let your voice be heard.
Regarding Chris Grillot’s column, “Column concerning Chick-fil-A, LGBTQ taken out of context,” readers had this to say: “Regardless of your true feelings, when you print an article in a publication that is widely read such as this paper, you have to be exact in your intentions. What you wrote, regardless if that is not what you meant, was hurtful.
Your article gave the sense that you are anti-LGBTQ, giving that you seemed to support Chick-fil-A’s right to conduct themselves in that manner. Us readers did not take your sentiments out of context, because the context you supplied us with was hurtful and wrong. Furthermore, there was no apology within this article, which is downright insulting. No one thinks down on a man who admits a mistake (which you did) and apologize for it (which you failed to do). Your first article concerning this topic was poor journalism at best, and this response is even worse.” -Anonymous
“Chris, no apology necessary. I too am not ‘homophobic,’ but understand all too well the inability of many to have a thoughful conversation about this issue.” -Anonymous “I’m happy to see you following up on the negative reaction to your article. Thanks for clarifying your point of view!” -Erin “This is the most unapologetic excuse for an apology you could have written. People protested the use of sweatshop clothing in the bookstore,
and lo and behold sweat-free t-shirts became available. Don’t try to tell us that protesting doesn’t get change to come about, and don’t try to deny a heter-bias that you have displayed in two written articles now.” -Anonymous “Totally cool that you had the privilege to respond to our letters before any of them were printed. You are still missing the point, and still have not given any solid reasons why the LGBTQ community should stop protesting Chick-FilA. It is not futile because exposing their bigotry means less money in their bank account, and that means
Thursday, March 17, 2011 less money in the bank accounts of anti-LGBTQ politicians and organizations.” -Alicia “I like how the author blames the reader for a badly written article. Next time, don’t write a homophobic article when you’re high and then blame the reader because you can’t write. Learn to write a real retraction.” -Anonymous
Contact The Daily Reveille’s opinion staff at opinion@lsureveille.com
POP GOES THE CULTURE
Lady Gaga’s split with Target over LGBTQ support admirable All artists have a statement to make, just as every opinion columnist has a favorite love-to-hate target. I have plenty, but one of the top contenders and repeat offenders is corporate sponsorship of music. This practice has garnered vocal support from industry insiders, and I’ve mourned how modern singers rely on big businesses to back their careers. Leave it to “Mother Monster” to help restore my faith in pop music. Lady Gaga nixed her upcoming album’s promotional deal with Target on March 8 just weeks after it was announced. Though neither side has openly discussed the postsplit specifics, the Kelly Hotard singer’s publicist Columnist told The Advocate magazine, “She and Target didn’t see eye to eye on Target’s policy of political donations and how they affect the LGBT community.” The venture seemed doomed as a bad romance from its inception: The bisexual Gaga criticized Target’s contributions to conservative, traditional-marriage activists, and the corporation conceded it would have to adopt a more equality-friendly company philosophy. “Our relationship is hinged upon their reform in the company to support the gay community and to redeem the mistakes they’ve made supporting those groups,” Gaga told Billboard Magazine in February. Both parties knew the stipulations, but Target ultimately didn’t fulfill its end of the bargain, prompting Gaga to nip the marketing campaign in the bud. The company’s perfunctory news release response
said Target was “surprised and disappointed” by the cancellation. I’m not bashing free enterprise or painting Target as the “big bad capitalist corporation.” A private company can support whatever causes it fancies. I’m questioning its apparent renege on a professional promise — that’s just bad business. I’m also not saying “F--k Target! Target hates gays!” Neither is Lady Gaga — and that’s my point. Gaga proves she’s indeed a lady and a true artist — not a corporate whore — with her rejection of Target and the manner in which it was executed. However you view her political preferences or flamboyant lifestyle, credit Gaga for sticking to her convictions rather than selling out. Her courageous refusal to compromise her ideals should be commended. The larger-than-life superstar also sent a refreshingly understated message to the LGBTQ community: Protest can be executed with respect and class. Such an outspoken, unpredictable diva could’ve blasted Target and mobilized her Little Monsters to boycott the stores. Instead, she has remained diplomatic, proving even business breakups can be civil. Gaga’s desire to amend the company is also admirable, but a better target of reform would be the increasingly corporation-reliant music industry. Optimally, pop singers should downsize their tours and music videos to prove their longevity when independent of sponsorship, but this equates to a celebrity version of “The Weakest Link.” Even a classically trained musician-singer-songwriter and interweaver of high and pop culture like Lady Gaga realizes the benefits of
The Daily Reveille
big business allies. As a theatrical performer, spectacles are required and expected of her and her genre. Her two-year “electro-pop opera” Monster Ball Tour delivers, and like any major event that needs financing, it’s corporately funded. She’s also a remarkably artful integrator of product placement. Lady Gaga’s spurning of firms that contradict her beliefs reflects even more impressively on her talents. A 20-something pop diva with
only five years of experience and the clout to drop a major commercial patron is practically unheard of, but she shows her contemporaries how it’s done. How great art thou, Gaga? Good enough to kick a corporate sponsor to the curb. Her decision requires social context: Culture shapes the artist, and when said culture is consumerism, a bold business maneuver like Lady Gaga’s speaks louder than her
outrageous antics or fashion statements. And that is saying something. Put your paws up for ethical artists.
Kelly Hotard is a 19-year-old mass communication junior from Picayune, Miss. Follow her on Twitter @TDR_khotard. Contact Kelly Hotard at khotard@lsureveille.com
BEST AND WITTIEST
cartoon courtesy of KING FEATURES SYNDICATE
Editorial Policies & Procedures
The Daily Reveille (USPS 145-800) is written, edited and produced solely by students of Louisiana State University. The Daily Reveille is an independent entity within the Manship School of Mass CommuniEditorial Board cation. Signed opinions are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of the editor, Sarah Lawson Editor-in-Chief 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 Robert Stewart Managing Editor, Content number so the opinion editor can verify the author. The phone number won’t be printed. The Daily ReveilStephanie Giglio Art Director le reserves the right to edit letters and guest columns for space consideration without changing the origiSteven Powell Managing Editor, External Media nal 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 evDevin Graham Opinion Editor ery semester by the Louisiana State University Media Board, has final authority on all editorial decisions.
Quote of the Day “Cruel leaders are replaced only to have new leaders turn cruel.”
Che Guevara Argentinian revolutionary June 14, 1928 — Oct. 9, 1967
The Daily Reveille
Thursday, March 17, 2011
ROCKING THE CRADLE
Opinion
page 17
FAILURE OF DIPLOMACY
Guevara a failed, idealist leader Lessons can be learned from Guevara example
Ernesto “Che” Guevara was a man of the heart, not the mind. More reactionary than revolutionary, Guevara followed his passion for humanity with an admirable integrity, however misguided and shortsighted it was. Because of his revolutionary spirit, Guevara’s legacy is one worthy of recollection during this era of dictatorial dominoes. Upon such recollection, however, modern Middle Eastern revolutionaries will see exactly what not to do thanks to the failure of Guevara’s idealism. Guevara assumed the position of guerilla warrior after bearing witness to the endemic poverty of 1950s Latin America. The brutal working conditions he found fueled a hatred for the United States and its capitalist businesses sprawled about the reCLAYTON gion. CROCKETT Like today’s Middle Eastern Columnist oil trade, the American economy was heavily entrenched in Latin America at the time. After the Guatemalan government’s expropriation of land from the American United Fruit Company, followed by a takedown of the government led by the CIA, Guevara divined that the only means of establishing freedom was through violent revolutions a la Karl Marx. Time would tell his services only proved valuable during necessary revolutions, however, and his atrocious handling of real government issues in Cuba as the minister of finance demonstrated the inadequacies of his idealism. His philosophy would procure resentment from the Middle Eastern revolutionaries of today for a number of reasons. Unlike Guevara, current revolutions across the Atlantic Ocean were not begun in reaction to the American way of life but were instead inspired by it. Free enterprise is the ideal, not the scapegoat. The dictatorships that have fallen did have their hands in business, but their subjects are smart enough to see that capitalism is a system abused — the masses have recognized their leaders’ malpractices. The men and women of the Middle East are far more culturally aware than the poor for whom Guevara fought and died. They have seen the promise of free enterprise and strive not for the means of survival but for the means to excel however their individual ability would allow them. For these reasons, Guevara’s politics would only sway those concerned with the bare minimum lifestyle because that is all his policy would guarantee — from each according to his ability and to each according to his need. Unbeknownst to him, in idealizing humankind, Guevara ironically reduced it to the status of an animal. When Guevara was assigned operation of Cuba’s economy, he put this mentality into practice. All land was taken from the “big bad corporations” and doled out evenly among the populace. Every person was assigned an amount to feed his fellow men. When workers
produced more than required, Guevara awarded them moral commendation rather than fiscal compensation. This policy resulted in American refusal to do business with Cuba — Guevara had seized American land — and the people’s refusal as well. Who would choose to work when necessity is the only determinant of one’s earnings? The 21st century generation wants more. This generation wants more than a guarantee of survival. It wants the guarantee of opportunity and self-fulfillment through work. Such fulfillment is impossible when a man’s excellence has no bearing on his reward. Guevara’s preachy emotional arguments hold neither water nor relevance. He proclaimed money to be a vile and class-stratifying evil while failing to recognize a human being’s desire for objective self-value. Humans want reward, yet Guevara’s system promised to take the most from those who produced in excess while rationing the fruits of labor to the inept. Only the man with neither dignity nor self-esteem would buy into a system that punished him for his ability. Thankfully, Fidel Castro was ignorant enough to place Guevara’s ideology on the world stage so we could see how impossible his aspirations would prove. Thanks to Castro, our generation knows better. Humans are more than mouths to feed. Clayton Crockett is a 19-year-old international studies freshman from Lafayette. Follow him on Twitter @TDR_ccrockett. Contact Clayton Crockett at ccrockett@lsureveille.com
Alberto Granado died March 6 at the age of 88. Granado was the companion of Ernesto “Che” Guevara on a motorcycle trip around Latin America, which has been seen as one of the most important events in forming Che’s political views. While Granado accomplished much, the fact that he recently died sparks an interesting train of thought. Had Guevara not been executed by Bolivian soldiers in 1967 at the age of 38, how much more would he have affected the world? Though his ability to spark international incidents would have undoubtedly led to more tension throughout the Cold War, we have no idea how much he might have impacted Third World countries. If he were alive, he would have likely helped better the HIV situation in Africa because of his desire to give medical help to those who can’t afford it. Unfortunately, we will never be able to know for sure. While thought provoking, an even more interesting question concerns current events in the Middle East. Specifically, we can try and take the lessons Guevara left us and try to make today’s movements more successful. What if Guevara had been born a few decades later and had become the revolutionary he was in the last years? Though world events would certainly not have led him down the same path, it’s worth considering. If we analyze his beliefs, we can assume how he may have acted in today’s world. Guevara’s main ideals involved fighting poverty, especially those who were oppressed by capitalist or imperialist countries. While his focus in Latin America was largely against businesses like the United Fruit Company, he might have found something similar in today’s situation with oil companies in the Middle East. Just as he detested America’s involvement against leaders like democratically elected Guatemalan president Jacobo Arbenz, he would probably disapprove of all the ties to America that exist throughout the region. Beyond his political involvement, however, he would have been appalled by the
illiteracy that plagues the region. In a 2009 study by the Global Campaign for Education, illiteracy was reported as 72 percent in Afghanistan, 50 percent in Pakistan and 18 percent in Iran. Given his continuous attempts to promote education, it’s almost guaranteed he would have tried to fix the literacy situation in these ZACHARY DAVIS countries. Columnist Lastly, we have to imagine what these revolutions would have resembled if they had a strong political figure at their head. While the Internet and new technology have allowed for events like the revolution in Egypt to be almost completely led by the people, they lack the focus a strong leader may have given them. This in no way is meant to belittle the achievements of today’s protestors. I will be one of the first in line to celebrate their success, and I only wish I could have helped. Instead, I wonder if their success could have been expanded further. Of course, I would also love to see Guevara’s military tactics in play against despicable Libyan dictator Moammar Gadhafi. Yet, while there are many similarities between the Latin America which Che Guevara fought for and the Middle East of today, the religious situation is far more complicated. It can be argued religion is more of a catalyst for rebellion in this region than poverty. While it is interesting to dwell on how Guevara might have had an effect on the region, we can really only speculate. Though he may have been killed far before his time, we can continue to fight for the views Guevara believed in. Poverty and oppression destroy societies. We must fight them wherever and whenever we can. Zachary Davis is a 20-yearold history junior from Warsaw, Poland. Follow him on Twitter @ TDR_zdavis.
Check out the continued head-to-head at New Spin Zone on lsureveille.com. Contact Zachary Davis at zdavis@lsureveille.com
page 18
P/T CASHIER needed at Cohn Turner Clothing. Great atmosphere! Flexible hours; no nights or Sundays; please email resume to ed@cohnturner. net THE UNIVERSITY CLUB Golf Course is now hiring energetic and friendly students for the following positions: servers, beverage cart, FOH supervisor, cart attendants, and golf shop staff. Call Clayton or Leslie at 819-0800. AQUATICS OPPORTUNITIES! NOW HIRING: YMCA Lifeguards, Swim Lesson & Water Fitness Instructors ìWork Here Everyone Benefitsî Must be Age 16+, flex schedules. Certifications and experience preferred. Certification classes also available. We will train you! Apply at any YMCA branch location: A. C. Lewis (ask for Abby) C. B. Pennington, Jr. (ask for Patti) Paula G. Manship (ask for Dina) Southside (ask for Jessica) ExxonMobil (ask for Toni) Dow Westside (ask for Kayne) CLASS PROJECT ATTENTION: I am looking for students
Classifieds
who pay for their own health insurance, and who would not mind being interviewed for a class project. If interested, please e-mail me at: timmymeighan@hotmail. com DENTAL OFFICE P/T assistant/receptionist needed. Great opportunity for those interested in the dental/medical field. Fax resume to 225-766-2122 RUNNER NEEDED Downtown Law Firm seeking PT runner, $8 hr plus mileage. Must be able to work most of the day, mainly afternoons. 225.346.8668 NOW HIRING! SCHLITTZ & GIGGLES PERKINS (at the overpass) FUN, ENERGETIC, OUTGOING, PERSONABLE, HARDWORKING TEAM MEMBERS. FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING. ALL POSITIONS! APPLY WITHIN OR @ WWW. SCHLITTZ. COM
Please email your resume to parkviewbps@gmail. com FULL/PART TIME WAITERS WANTED Cafe Americain Experienced waiter or waitress. Come apply Mon-Fri 2-5 or Sat 11-2 225.924.9841 LOVE CHILDREN? Store in Sherwood/ Coursey area needs 2 helpers. Saturdays and 2 or 3 afternoons. No nights or Sundays. 291-4850 EARN EXTRA MONEY Students needed ASAP. Earn up to $150 per day being a Mystery Shopper. No Experience Required. Call 1-888-615-5245 FASHIONISTA IS NOW HIRING Must be able to work opening shifts. Do you love jewelry? Call Lacey at 225-907-2883
shop, museum, & administrative offices. Apply in person at the gift shop or download an application from our website. www.usskidd.com. M-F, 9-5, 305 S. River Rd. 225.342.1942 P/T SALES ASSOC. Energetic, Happy, Outgoing salesperson needed. Great place to work w/ great hours. Mon-Fri 105:30, Sat 10-5. Some weekends req. Email resume 2222gift@gmail. com VETERINARY CLINIC LOOKING for full-time veterinary technicians, receptionists and assistants for busy small animal clinic. Please apply in person at 7807 Greenwell Springs Rd. 225.928.4417 STUDENTPAYOUTS. COM Paid Survey Takers Needed In Baton Rogue. 100% Free To Join! Click On Surveys.
HIGH PAYING INDUSTRY JOBS Post your resume today at http:// careers. gbria.org, a jobsite dedicated to the 60 plus industrial plants around Baton Rouge like ExxonMobil, BASF, Georgia Pacific and more. Plants hire all types of careers. Check us out!
SWIMMING INTRUCTORS NEEDED GREAT OPPORTUNITY-Part time Afternoon April & May- Full Time Summer-Great Pay! CRAWFISH AQUATICS, Louisiana’s Total Swim Program-If you are highly motivated, hard working, we can teach you the rest. Please fax resume to 225706-1636 or e-mail to swimcraw@crawfishaquatics.com
►►BARTENDING UP TO NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY. TRAINING AVAILABLE. AGE 18+ OK 1-800-965-6520 ext127
PARKVIEW BAPTIST PRESCHOOL Preschool Afternoon Teachers needed 3-6pm flex days. no degree required.
USS KIDD VETERANS MEMORIAL Now hiring P/T tour guides & overnight camping guides. The position includes ship tours and working in the gift
RESEARCH ASST--PUBLIC AFFAIRS Local software company needs help maintaining nationwide database of public officials. Great work environ-
EARN $1000-$3200 A month to drive our brand new cars with ads placed on them. www. AdCarDriver.com
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ment, flexible hours. Must be detail-oriented and have a passion for highquality work. Knowledge of basic HTML a plus, but not required. Part-time or full-time. Great job if interested in pursuing a career in public affairs. $10-12 per hour. Resume to jobs@votervoice.net. OMNIMERC $18 STARTING College Students. Flexible hours, No experience required. Email resume to jobs@omnimerc.com or submit online
LSU AREA CONDOS Brooke Hollow Condos 2 BR, 2 Baths, Unit B27, Wood floors thru-out, completely updated, full washer, dryer & refrigerator. 1 Ω miles from LSU & on bus route. $135,900 ****************** ****************** ****************** **** Jackson Square ñ 2828 Congress Blvd. ñ One story townhome so convenient to campus. Gated Complex off College Drive, 3 BR, 2 Baths, like new condition, convenient to everything. $191,000
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The Daily Reveille
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The Daily Reveille
Thursday, March 17, 2011