The Daily Reveille - January 17, 2012

Business: Media attention surrounds decision to nix production plans on LSU beer, p. 3

Entertainment: Pinterest popular for creative ideas, procrastination, p. 15

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Football: A look at next season’s roster, p. 9 Tuesday, January 17, 2012 • Volume 116, Issue 71

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Graphic YouTube video shows Alabama fans assaulting LSU fan NOPD sex crimes unit aware of incident Matthew Jacobs Editor-in-Chief

A YouTube video surfaced late last week showing a University of Alabama football fan sexually assaulting an incapacitated LSU fan at the Krystal restaurant on Bourbon Street in New Orleans after the national championship game.

The LSU fan remains asleep on a table as a sea of crimson-clad Alabama fans surround him mockingly, placing various items on and around his head while asking whether he is dead and saying he will soon “be all over YouTube.”

Approximately three minutes into the video, an Alabama fan pulls his genitals out of his pants and places them in the LSU fan’s face and thrusts his hips. The Alabama fan then proceeds to mock-sodomize the LSU fan.

Remi Braden, director of public affairs for the New Orleans Police Department, said NOPD’s sex crimes unit is aware of the video. Braden said the actions appear to be sexual assault, but officials cannot open an investigation unless the victim comes forward, which he had not as of press time.

The video garnered more than 10,000 views before being removed by the poster on Sunday afternoon. Some YouTube commenters called for the Alabama fan’s arrest, citing sexual harassment and remarking that his actions are “embarrassing” and “a disgrace.”

Twitter user KonwayTweety posted on Sunday that he is the Alabama fan in the video, saying it’s “awesome” that the popular sports blog Deadspin reported on the incident. In response to a tweet saying the assault would send him to jail, the Alabama fan tweeted, “My dad is rich...I wont be going to jail...#RollDamnTide boy.”

Communications officials from the University of Alabama’s police department were not available for comment by press time.

“This took the rivalry to a whole new level,” said Trey Woodward, LSU international trade and finance sophomore. “It’s complete defamation.” screenshot courtesy of YOUTUBE.COM

Contact Matthew Jacobs at mjacobs@lsureveille.com

Alabama fans place items on a sleeping LSU fan Jan. 9 after the Tigers’ 21-0 BCS Championship loss to the Crimson Tide.

TRIMMING THE

MONEY TREE Another budget cut splinters the University’s operating budget; $8.1 million chopped

While students spent winter Chancellor Michael Martin and break adorning trees with baubles and Executive Vice Chancellor and Protinsel, administrators vost Jack Hamilton trimmed the Univerdivided the cut Andrea Gallo sity’s money tree by between academNews Editor $8.1 million, continuic and non-academic ing a pattern of the University being units. Academic units took a $2.5 milseared with midyear budget cuts since lion cut each, and non-academic units January 2009. took a $3.2 million cut. Non-academic Administrators have cut fund- units are comprised mostly of Facility ing for 60 University positions, 40 Services but also include advising and of which were vacant positions support areas. the University eliminated. The Even after this cut stretches other 20 positions will now be through the University, there is a funded by athletics budgets or BUDGET CUTS, see page 8 private source funding.

How does this affect you? See page 8.

photo illustration by BRIANNA PACIORKA and KIRSTEN ROMAGUERA / The Daily Reveille

The Daily Reveille

page 2

INTERNATIONAL

Nation & World

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

NATIONAL

STATE/LOCAL

CEO blames captain error for ship grounding off Italian coast

Marine veteran suspected of killing four homeless people visits father

Louisiana woman shoots husband, then herself in murder-suicide

ROME (AP) — The jailed captain of the cruise ship that capsized off Tuscany made an unauthorized deviation from the programmed course, a blunder that led to its deadly crash against a reef, the ship’s Italian owner said Monday.

Rescue operations were suspended for several hours Monday after the Costa Concordia shifted in rough seas and fears mounted that any further movement could cause some of the 500,000 gallons of fuel on board to leak into the pristine waters off the island of Giglio that are a protected dolphin sanctuary.

Christie’s to sell Elizabeth Taylor’s art, including Van Gogh pieces

YORBA LINDA, Calif. (AP) — Just days before being arrested, a Marine veteran suspected in the deaths of four homeless men in Southern California visited his father, who is himself homeless, warning of the danger of being on the streets and showing him a picture of one of the victims.

The father said his son came back a changed man after serving in Iraq, expressing disillusionment and becoming ever darker as his family life frayed and he struggled to find his way as a civilian.

Former presidential nominee Jon Huntsman abandons campaign

METAIRIE (AP) — Louisiana authorities are investigating the deaths of a married couple in which the woman apparently shot her husband early Monday, then called 911 to report the slaying before shooting herself in the head.

Jefferson Parish Sheriff Newell Normand said in a news release that the emergency call came from the city of Metairie on Monday about 5:05 a.m.

Normand says the woman identified herself as 61-year-old Penelope D. Springer and said she shot her husband. The woman then hung up the phone.

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (AP) — Jon Huntsman abandoned his once-promising campaign for the Republican presidential nomination on Monday and endorsed Mitt Romney as the man “best equipped to defeat Barack Obama.”

The former Utah governor coupled his announcement with an appeal to the remaining contenders to stop attacking one another in television commercials. “At its core, the Republican Party is a party of ideas, but the current toxic form of our political discourse does not help our cause,” he said.

SHREVEPORT (AP) — Public pajamary might get you busted in Caddo Parish if a parish commissioner has his way.

The Times reported that Commissioner Michael Williams said an incident at a local Walmart in which he and others were offended by a customer clad in pajamas was the spark for his proposal to ban them in public. One problem with a prohibition on wearing jammies in public is defining what constitutes pajamas, Williams acknowledges.

LONDON (AP) — A Vincent van Gogh landscape and other paintings from the collection of Elizabeth Taylor are up for auction in London.

Christie’s auction house says 38 works belonging to the late actress will be included in Impressionist and modern sales Feb. 7 and 8.

They include van Gogh’s autumn landscape “Vue de l’Asile et de la Chapelle de Saint-Remy,” estimated at 5 million to 7 million pounds as well as an Edgar Degas self-portrait and works by Camille Pissarro and Auguste Renoir.

GREGORIO BORGIA / The Associated Press

Italian firefighters conduct search operations on the luxury cruise ship Costa Concordia that ran aground of Isola del Giglio, Italy, on Jan. 15.

Indian doctors report new TB strain resistant to all medications INDIA (AP) — Indian doctors have reported the country’s first cases of “totally drug-resistant tuberculosis,” a long-feared and virtually untreatable form of the killer disease.

It’s not the first time highly resistant cases like this have been seen. Since 2003, patients have been documented in Italy and Iran. It has mostly been limited to impoverished areas, and has not spread widely. But experts believe there could be many undocumented cases.

No one expects the Indian TB strains to rapidly spread elsewhere.

The airborne disease is mainly transmitted through close personal contact and isn’t nearly as contagious as the flu.

YOU GOT 99 PROBLEMS AND A ROOMMATE IS ONE?

Caddo Parish may consider ban on wearing pajamas in public

MEET THE EDITORS

Today on lsureveille.com Read online exclusive stories on men and women’s tennis and the Honors College Service Award.

Check out commentary about Sunday’s Golden Globes on the LMFAO entertainment blog.

Read more about budget cuts on the Out of Print news blog.

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@lsureveille, @TDR_news, @TDR_sports

Weather TODAY T-storms

78 42 TOMORROW

THURSDAY

57 37

66 49

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

72 61

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BRIANNA PACIORKA / The Daily Reveille

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

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

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Matthew Jacobs • Editor-in-Chief Chris Branch • Associate Managing Editor Ryan Buxton • Associate Managing Editor Bryan Stewart • Managing Editor, External Media Andrea Gallo • News Editor Morgan Searles • Deputy News Editor & Entertainment Editor Katherine Terrell • Sports Editor Mark Clements • Deputy Sports Editor Kirsten Romaguera • Production Editor Clayton Crockett • Opinion Editor Brianna Paciorka • Photo Editor Tyler Daniel • Multimedia Editor Steven Powell • Radio Director Annabel Mellon • Advertising Sales Manager Newsroom (225)578-4810 • Advertising (225)578-6090

The Daily Reveille

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

CAMPUS LIFE

page 3

University commemorates Martin Luther King Jr. with vigil Marylee Williams Contributing Writer

More than 100 students’ voices rose in the chorus of “This Little Light of Mine” to remember Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday night.

The festivities were part of a candlelight vigil held by the National Pan-Hellenic Council as part of the University’s Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Celebration.

The crowd sang “We Shall Overcome” and “This Little Light of Mine” during its processional down Dalrymple Drive and behind the Law School. Crystal Fisher, Pan-Hellenic’s vice president who coordinated the event, said the songs were chosen because they represent the spirit of the Civil Rights movement.

Keynote speaker Nicholas Duffel, psychology junior, shared his experience of being biracial with attendants and how that has given him a

distinct perspective on King and his principles.

“Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred,” Duffel said, quoting King.

Duffel stressed the importance of remembering what people alive during the civil rights movement endured while fighting for equality.

“Lots of people lose focus of what today truly means — to make a difference,” Duffel said.

Spanish junior Kellie Colar read King’s “Pledge of Nonviolence” before the lighting of the candles.

Christopher Jones, mathematics senior, has attended the event for four years. He said the vigil is a time when people of all races can share in King’s achievements.

The event ended with food and performances in the Live Oak Lounge. Gia Eason and Taylor James-Lightner sang for guests, and

Theodore Burnell Williams III recited an excerpt from King’s “I Have A Dream” speech.

The National Pan-Hellenic Council spent about $250 on the event to cater the reception. The Office of Multicultural Affairs supplied the candles, and LSUPD guided the processional for free.

Chancellor Michael Martin spoke at the vigil in 2010 but said he chose not to speak this year because other people should have the chance to speak and honor the memory of Dr. King.

King’s commemoration at the University will continue Jan. 25, when award-winning American poet Nikki Giovanni discusses diversity and Jan. 26, when students put on an arts showcase.

Contact Marylee Williams at mwilliams@lsureveille.com

AUSTIN BENNETT / The Daily Reveille

Members of Phi Beta Sigma fraternity attend a Martin Luther King Jr. candlelight vigil Monday at Memorial Tower. See a photo gallery and video of the event at lsureveille.com.

BUSINESS

University beer brewing plans fizzle, draw media attention The Daily Reveille comments, p. 20 Rachel Warren Staff Writer

Students who have been jonesing for an official LSU libation received bad news last week.

After the University’s tug-ofwar with the LSU System over licensing an official University beer, administrators announced Jan. 11 that the University will no longer seek the license.

Chancellor Michael Martin said the plan’s demise stemmed from a difference of opinion between him and the LSU Board of Supervisors.

“It’s not worth the fight,” he said.

Charles Zewe, vice president of communications & external affairs for the LSU System, said the beer idea wasn’t approved because the University didn’t follow

appropriate procedure.

According to the bylaws of the Board of Supervisors, “All communications to the Board, or to any committee thereof, from persons having official relations with the University System shall be filed in writing with the President and duly transmitted by him to the Board.”

“There was no dispute,” Zewe said. “The campus simply did not ever submit anything in writing as is required by our bylaws.”

Martin could not be reached for comment regarding the bylaw issue.

The decision to put the brakes on the proposal came after the prospect of an LSU beer caught the attention of the national media in commentary that painted the University as having an alcohol-friendly culture where a Tiger-branded ale would have prospered.

“Year in and year out, regardless of how well their team is playing, LSU supporters make other college tailgating crews look like Baptist choirs,” wrote Ben Cohen in a Wall Street Journal article titled

Can you believe that??

Send your pictures and videos to tigereyes@lsureveille.com or tweet us @lsureveille See submitted photos and videos at photos.lsureveille.com

Reveille

“You Can’t Spell ‘Lush’ Without LS-U” before the BCS title game.

Other universities noticed as well.

“Since LSU cannot sell alcohol inside the stadium, the chancellor wants to profit from alcohol outside the stadium,” wrote Roger Groves, law professor at Florida Coastal School of Law, in a Forbes editorial.

Martin called the idea for licensing beer an opportunity for learning and revenue.

The University had planned to license through the Collegiate Licensing Company, which would have allowed local beer producer Tin Roof Brewing Company to produce an LSU-themed beer, named “Bandit Blonde.”

Do you think ending the program was a mistake?

Vote at lsureveille.com.

Contact Rachel Warren at rwarren@lsureveille.com

DO YOU HAVE AN OCCURRENCE? Call Becky at the Student Media Office 578-6090, 9AM- 5PM or E-mail: oncampus@lsureveille.com

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

OBITUARY

STATE GOVERNMENT

The Daily Reveille

page 5

Former Jindal inaugurated for second term presents professor Gov. education reform Kent dies at 97 Kate Mabry Staff Writer

Paul Braun

Contributing Writer

George C. Kent, former University comparative anatomy professor, died Jan. 4 in his Pittsburgh home at age 97.

Kent taught and inspired thousands of students during his tenure at the University, said Paul Terranova, who began studying under KENT Kent in 1971. He said he remembered Kent for his enthusiasm and dedication to research.

“His work ethic was unmatched,” Terranova said. “He was in his office early in the morning and late at night. He was there on Saturdays and Sundays.”

Terranova, who serves as senior associate dean for research and graduate education at the University of Kansas Medical Center, said he was influenced by Kent’s drive.

“I saw how he worked. ... In order to be successful you cannot work from 9 to 5 and think about your projects only during working hours,” Terranova said. “But it was not really work. It was enjoying your research.”

Kent earned his undergraduate degree from Maryville College in 1937. He attended Vanderbilt University for his master’s and doctoral study and served as a research associate at Cornell University. He was also an instructor at Vanderbilt before joining LSU as a professor in 1942.

Kent remained at the University until retiring in 1979 as a professor emeritus, according to the College of Science Hall of Distinction.

After his retirement, Kent was bestowed with a professorship in the Department of Biological Sciences, said Kent’s daughter, Carolyn Rovee-Collier. The honor was made possible by donation from a former student of Kent’s, she said.

A week before his death, Kent was still receiving grateful correspondence from former students, Rovee-Collier said.

Kent’s influence extended beyond the University with the publication of his textbook “Comparative Anatomy of the Vertebrates,” RoveeCollier said. It remained a standard text in the field for years and was studied by Kent’s grandchildren decades later, she said.

“There were 39 countries in the world that used his book.” RoveeCollier said.

Kent is survived by his daughter, brother Donald Kent and several grand- and great-grandchildren.

Contact Paul Braun at pbraun@lsureveille.com

While the Tigers were on their way to the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Jan. 9, hundreds of people gathered around the Old State Capitol to watch Gov. Bobby Jindal’s second inauguration ceremony.

During his inauguration speech, Jindal stated “our mission is not accomplished” when speaking about education reform within the state, though his focus was primarily on K-12 education rather than higher education.

With Louisiana public schools still lagging behind in performance, he emphasized his education reform package, in which he plans to improve both primary and secondary education.

“The simple truth is there are many children, very many, who do not have the same opportunities,” he said during the ceremony. “Here is the good news. We can fix this. All we need is the willpower to get it done, and the courage to stop doing things that have proven not to work.”

Jindal, the first IndianAmerican governor in the United States, has received high approval ratings since he took office in 2008, and while running for his second gubernatorial term, he also received two-thirds of the popular vote over his nine competitors.

Although budget cuts to higher education wrought havoc upon the University during Jindal’s first term, political science department chairman James Stoner said he believes voters understood the seriousness of the state budget crisis, and based on this understanding, Jindal’s approval ratings remained high.

“My guess is that voters understand that the state budget is in crisis, that raising taxes in a recession is not a wise thing to do, and therefore that all the agencies and institutions funded by the state must take a hit,” he said.

Since Jindal has vowed to prioritize primary and secondary education, Stoner said he does not expect any dramatic changes within the University system.

Many students support the governor’s strategy in improving primary and secondary education first.

ROTC probes alleged scandal Brian Sibille Staff Writer

there’s still more that could be done about higher ed,” Broussard said.

But Sarah Swafford, prenursing freshman, said the governor should focus his attention equally on higher education as well as primary and secondary education.

“I feel like colleges are being left behind, and students are getting less and less support from the government,” she said. “There should be more of a focus on making college a more available opportunity for more people.”

An investigation in November launched into allegations of a relationship between an LSU ROTC master sergeant and a cadet is still ongoing but may be resolved soon.

The investigation began when an outsider accused Master Sgt. Wayne LawLAWRENCE rence of being in a forbidden relationship with a cadet.

Lt. Col. John Wright, LSU ROTC battalion commander, said in an e-mail to The Daily Reveille that the case has not yet been closed, but neither he nor the investigating legal team could provide further information.

Wright said a resolution should be reached soon.

Lawrence’s attorney Joseph Blackwell told The Daily Reveille on Nov. 17 that Lawrence denies all allegations, which Blackwell called “baseless.”

Blackwell did not respond to requests for comment by press time.

Contact Kate Mabry at kmabry@lsureveille.com

Contact Brian Sibille at bsibille@lsureveille.com

KERRY MALONEY / The Associated Press

Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal, his wife Supriya and their children Slade, Shaan and Selia attend the Inaugural Prayer Service on Jan. 8 in honor of the governor in Baton Rouge.

Gabrielle Chabert, biology sophomore, said she has volunteered at local public schools in the Baton Rouge area, and the biggest problem is the quality of public schools for children in the state.

“There are a number of children who do not receive a proper education,” she said. “Without educating the younger generation, there’s no point in focusing on higher ed. You can’t focus on the older until you can fix the younger.”

Tina Broussard, 2010 University alumna, agreed.

“Primary and secondary education need more attention, but

INVESTIGATION

The Daily Reveille

page 6

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

How well is Student Government performing?

CAMPUS

SG President Cody Wells and VP Kathleen Bordelon’s campaign initiative process: COMPLETE:

• Create a Four Quarters for Charity football game • Institute a breast cancer awareness football game • Offer part-time student veterans tickets to athletic events • Reinstate $5 free on-campus printing • Minimize broadcast e-mails • Re-establish the President’s Cabinet • Launch an organization interest survey for first year students • Utilize Tiger Trails on game days • Extend night bus service to downtown area • Alter Tiger Trails routs to decrease travel times • Host a shuttle to downtown Farmer’s Market every Sunday

rendering courtesy of FACILITY SERVICES

A rendering of the University’s future parking garage and bookstore on Highland Road, which is anticipated to open fall 2012 .

Construction projects slated to open fall 2012 Kevin Thibodeaux Contributing Writer

Four construction projects on the University’s campus are expected to be completed by fall 2012.

Work on the projects will end sometime between the end of this semester and the summer, but the buildings won’t officially open to students until the fall, according to Emmett David, director of planning, design and construction with the University’s Facility Services.

Tiger Marching Band Hall The Tiger Marching Band Hall opened in December and is in use by the band.

“The band hall, recently opened on the North side of campus on Aster Road, brings acoustical interior finishes and accoutrements that support 350 band members at ‘full volume’ as they practice their ensembles for field,” David said.

East Laville Hall Joe Hitt, the assistant director of facilities for Residential Life, said work on East Laville Hall is on schedule and within budget.

Hitt said construction on the $14 million residential hall is expected to be completed by April. He said after the building is finished, ResLife will furnish it before opening to students in fall 2012.

Business Education Complex The roughly $40 million

project, funded through a public and private partnership, is within budget, David said.

David said private donors matched the money provided by the state to construct the 160,000 square-foot complex. The building should open in preparation for classes and students’ return in the fall.

Chancellor Michael Martin said the building will officially open March 2, and Steve Forbes, editorin-chief of Forbes magazine, will attend the unveiling.

Choppin Hall Annex Originally intended to be a three-story building, the five-story Choppin Hall Annex was built thanks to state general bond funds, according to David.

Construction on the annex is scheduled to be completed in June in preparation for an opening in the fall semester.

Raphael Semmes Parking Garage and Bookstore David said the 60,000-squarefoot bookstore and 750-car parking garage will be funded through fees and revenue from paid parking by students, staff, faculty and visitors to campus who use the garage.

As of now, the parking garage and Barnes and Noble are anticipated to open in fall 2012.

Contact Kevin Thibodeaux at kthibodeaux@lsureveille.com

IN PROGRESS: • Permit wait listing for multiple sections of the same class • Allow optional test printing for computer based testing • Establish additional Scantron and blue book distribution locations • Expand bookstore textbook rental program • Eliminate printed football tickets • Name the football student section • Coordinate with local government to establish more campus lighting • Protect student interests from budget cuts • Institute a campus-wide recycling program • Distribute student parking passes earlier

INCOMPLETE: • Host a gubernatorial debate compiled by DANIELLE KELLEY / The Daily Reveille

Read what SG plans to implement this semester at lsureveille.com.

CAMPUS CRIME BRIEFS Crime over the winter holidays While students were away for winter break, campus crime declined.

Capt. Cory Lalonde, LSU Police Department spokesman, said LSUPD is able to investigate previous cases during the less hectic holiday season.

During the winter break, LSUPD made nine arrests and identified suspects in recent cell

phone robberies.

An armed robbery occurred on Highland Road and State Street on Dec. 13. No suspects have been identified.

LSUPD responded to a suspicious package by the Energy, Coast and Environment Building on Dec. 30. Officers determined the package wasn’t a threat.

A 20-year-old man unaffiliated with the University was charged Jan. 3 for a Nov. 28 phone robbery

on West Lakeshore Drive. The suspect, Terrius Reshawn Brown, of 1111 Rodin Dr., was previously incarcerated for other offenses before this charge was made.

There was a purse snatching on Highland Road on Jan. 6. No suspects have been identified.

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

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page 8 programs are unique to the University and which programs can easily dangling chance that this semes- be re-grown.

“History tends to suggest that ter’s financial setbacks are not over.

The University asked the maybe your one-time cut becomes recurring,” Martin Joint Legislative Committee on How does this affect you? said. “You don’t want to kill somethe Budget for an • Tuition and fees will continue to thing you can’t re$8 million budincrease vive.” get adjustment If this $8.1 to account for • Colleges and departments will have increased enroll- less money to hire new professors and million cut becomes permanent, ment numbers, buy new equipment but it has not yet • College of Science will not be able to Martin said it will force the Univerbeen voted on. repair or replace lab equipment If the committee • College of Art and Design will not be sity to consider more mergers and denies the adjust- able to buy equipment for its digital consolidations, ment, the Univer- art concentration sity’s midyear cut • Facility Services will have fewer hours and it “narrows bandwidth would essentially to perform ongoing maintenance and the of programs we be doubled to $16 will have higher utilities costs can put on the million.

Jason ground.”

Droddy, director • LSU Libraries is cutting periodicals The concrete of external affairs, • Louisiana Animal Disease Diagnostic said while the Lab will reduce its diagnostic services impacts of the cut come from “salUniversity was to the public hoping to have • LSU School of Veterinary Medicine is ary savings,” according to Kuhn. the budget adjust- postponing renovations That means when ment granted last departments have money set aside month, he expects it to pass soon.

“It’s like golf,” he said. “You’ll to fill vacant positions, they instead get to the 18th hole eventually, utilize that money to spend on equipment, instructors, travel exmaybe just not in four hours.”

Martin agreed, saying in- penses and the like. A midyear cut creased enrollment stemming from snatches away not only the position additional students and higher re- meant to be filled in the future, but tention rates means the University also any benefits the department is on track with the Legislature’s was reaping before the position was filled. requests.

After state revenue projections In the wider scope of the upcoming year, though, Martin and trickled in sparser amounts than Droddy hinted that higher educa- anticipated in late December, Gov. tion funding could be on the up- Bobby Jindal pressed a $50 million swing as “good friends” of the cut onto higher education, the only University assume positions in the sector of the state economy that is Legislature chairing the House and not constitutionally protected from Senate finance and education com- cuts, aside from health care. The LSU System, which comprises mittees.

“Hopefully, we’ll have a plat- more units than the state’s other form or a stage from which to make higher education governing boards, split its approximately $21 million our case,” Martin said.

But if the national economy cut by 5.1 percent to each unit, continues to lag, the state economy except for the LSU Baton Rouge will sputter and could lead toward campus, which took a 5.3 percent state revenues falling short once hit and Pennington Biomedical again. Those short revenues would Center, which took a 2.6 percent reduction. mean more budget cuts.

The University’s cut absorbed “The end will be near when we stop getting these cuts,” Hamilton part of the slash toward Penningsaid. “The economy in the state has ton Biomedical Research Center, so the University was cut an addito be stabilized.”

Hamilton said he hopes the tional $340,503.

“The system believes that national economy’s recent upswing will strike the state’s economy, and Pennington needs help,” Hamilton he hopes to see a “plateau” by then. said.

On Jan. 8, University alumni “If we can maintain the state appropriation right where it is, and donors James Carville and W. we’ll have a fighting chance to Henson Moore, last year’s comcome out a little bit better,” Droddy mencement speaker, wrote a guest column to The Times-Picayune said.

Robert Kuhn, associate vice about the rocky funding system in chancellor of Budget and Planning, which the University has found itsaid midyear cuts are approached self trapped.

“LSU has already cut prowith temporary measures that may be different if the cut becomes per- grams, consolidated colleges and departments and reduced adminmanent.

“A budget is a commitment of istration,” they wrote. “In the last resources,” Kuhn said. “When you two years, the number of fachave a midyear cut, you’re break- ulty members has declined by ing or violating this commitment.”

Kuhn said midyear cuts are especially difficult to navigate and distribute.

“You don’t have degrees of freedom or flexibility to spread that out over a 12-month period,” he said.

Martin said his approach when weighing what to cut comes from protecting the University’s academic core, as defined by three criteria: which programs are central to building other programs, which

BUDGET CUTS, from page 1

Tuesday, January 17, 2012 approximately 10 percent. LSU faculty have not had a pay raise in three years while all but two Southeastern Conference schools had one this year alone. This is no way to retain faculty, let alone recruit them.”

Kuhn said if the faculty do not receive a pay raise in the next year, it will mark the first time in 30 years the faculty have gone four years without pay raises.

In order for faculty to receive pay raises, Hamilton said the state must change the University’s budget, either by letting administrators increase tuition by more than 10 percent, as the LA GRAD Act dictates, or by hiking state appropriations to the University.

SOLAR POWER

BENJAMIN OLIVER HICKS / The Daily Reveille

Contact Andrea Gallo at agallo@lsureveille.com

East Baton Rouge Mayor-President Kip Holden cuts the ribbon Thursday for the opening of the Solar Pavillion at the Baranco-Clark YMCA in Old South Baton Rouge.

Sports

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

page 9

LOOKING AHEAD Football team poised for possible title repeat in 2012 season Hunter Paniagua Sports Writer

BRIANNA PACIORKA / The Daily Reveille

LSU sophomore quarterback Zach Mettenberger throws a pass during warmups Jan. 9 before the Tigers’ 21-0 loss to Alabama in the Allstate BCS National Championship game in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome.

WHO’S OUT

WHO’S IN

UNDERCLASSMEN Junior CB Morris Claiborne Junior WR Rueben Randle Sophomore DT Michael Brockers

Predictions for the 2012 football starting lineup

GRADUATING SENIORS OL T-Bob Hebert OG Will Blackwell DE Ken Adams TE Mitch Joseph LS Joey Crappell LB Karnell Hatcher FB James Stampley LB Stefoin Francois LB Ryan Baker TE Denangelo Peterson S Brandon Taylor DB Ron Brooks QB Jarrett Lee QB Jordan Jefferson

OFFENSE QB: Sophomore Zach Mettenberger C: Junior P.J. Lonergan RG: Sophomore Josh Williford LG: Senior Josh Dworaczyk (Pending sixthyear eligibility) OR freshman La’El Collins LT: Chris Faulk OR Alex Hurst OR freshman La’El Collins RT: Junior Alex Hurst OR sophomore Chris Faulk RB: Sophomore Michael Ford RB: Sophomore Spencer Ware RB: Freshman Kenny Hilliard TE: Junior Chase Clement WR: Junior Russell Shepard WR: Freshman James Wright OR freshman Jarvis Landry WR: Freshman Odell Beckham Jr.

DEFENSE DB: Sophomore Tyrann Mathieu DB: Sophomore Tharold Simon DE: Sophomore Barkevious Mingo DE:Sophomore Sam Montgomery DT: Sophomore Bennie Logan DT: Freshman Anthony Johnson FB: Sophomore J.C. Copeland LB: Sophomore Lamin Barrow LB: Sophomore Kevin Minter LB: Sophomore Tahj Jones S: Sophomore Craig Loston S: Sophomore Eric Reid SPECIAL TEAMS P: Freshman Brad Wing K: Junior Drew Alleman KS: Freshman James Hairston

LSU players had their heads hung low after their disappointing defeat in the BCS National Championship, but it didn’t take them long to turn their attention to 2012.

Most players expressed high hopes for next season in their postgame interviews, vowing they would return to the title game. The “MIAMI2013” hashtag even became popular on Twitter, representing the championship’s location in Miami in January 2013.

“Sorry for letting [Tiger Nation] down,” junior kicker Drew Alleman posted on Twitter after the game. “This will NEVER happen again. NEVER...We will be back for revenge. Get ready MIAMI.” Reporters asked LSU coach Les Miles several times leading up to the championship if he expected the Tigers to return to the big stage next season. Miles shrugged ‘This team’s going to be off those questions, say- good for years to come. ing he’d wait until after the championship game The talent we have on to discuss the 2012 camthis team is unreal.’ paign.

But three days afMorris Claiborne ter the game — during a LSU junior cornerback press conference to announce the departure of defensive tackle Michael Brockers and cornerback Morris Claiborne for the NFL — Miles hinted that LSU will not experience a dropoff next season.

“Defense and special teams fall together pretty comfortably,” Miles said. “Offensively, graduating two quarterbacks, there will be a definite shift in philosophy. It will be a great challenge. It’s something our coaching staff is looking forward to, as well as a great segment of our team.”

LSU will lose 12 players who started games in 2011 — six on offense and six on defense — and three players will depart early for the NFL, including Brockers, Claiborne and wide receiver Rueben Randle.

Randle’s departure leaves some questions at wide receiver as rising junior Zach Mettenberger is expected to take over the quarterback position.

Mettenberger, who played in five games in 2011 and completed eight of 11 passes for 92 yards and a touchdown, will replace senior quarterbacks Jordan Jefferson and LOOKING AHEAD, see page 14

MEN’S BASKETBALL

Scoring woes plague LSU in January past week.

“In the Alabama game, we just didn’t compete well, which was For the LSU men’s basketball more disappointing than losing, reteam, winter break began with a ally,” said LSU sophomore guard Ralston Turner. “Against Virginia, bang and ended with a whimper. everything was contestThe Tigers rode ed, and we just had a few a stifling defense and LSU men’s breakdowns. Arkansas timely shooting to seven basketball: came down to not makstraight wins in December, but January hasn’t Who: LSU vs. Auburn ing some key shots.”

LSU coach Trent brought similar prosper- When: 6 p.m. today Johnson said the Tigers ity. hope to put a stop to LSU (11-6, 1-2 Where: PMAC any perceived “bleedSoutheastern Confer- Watch or listen at ing” when an improved ence) has dropped three home: ESPNU or Auburn squad (11-6, 1-2 of its last four against 100.7 FM SEC) marches into the solid competition, fallPMAC tonight. ing to No. 23 Virginia “It’s been tough to put that at home, 57-52, and dropping two SEC road tilts at Arkansas (69- Arkansas loss behind us,” Johnson 60) and Alabama (69-53) in the said. “The ball just didn’t go down Chris Abshire Sports Writer

when we found open looks. We’re excited that the next game comes quick, though, and Auburn has taken some positive steps this year, individually and collectively.”

The SEC’s other Tigers are perennial conference doormats, but have shown life this season.

Auburn played a top-5 Kentucky squad to a virtual draw through 35 minutes last week before falling, 68-53, and outlasted Ole Miss, 6968, in double overtime last Saturday.

The Plainsmen are led by dynamic senior forward Kenny Gabriel, a 6-foot-8 slasher whose leaping dunks and acrobatic blocks have led to numerous highlight-reel moments during his STRUGGLES, see page 14

APRIL L. BROWN / The Associated Press

LSU senior forward Storm Warren (24) positions for a shot Saturday as Arkansas’ Michael Sanchez defends during the Tigers’ 69-60 loss in Fayetteville, Ark.

The Daily Reveille

page 10

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Lady Tigers fall to Florida during first SEC loss this season Luke Johnson Sports Writer

Just win, baby.

That’s been the motto for the Lady Tigers (13-4) ever since LSU went on its winter holiday, and they nearly made it a perfect 11-for-11 during the break before losing 62-58 to Florida (12-6) on Sunday. It was LSU’s first loss in 50 days.

It looked like Florida was going to win in a landslide, but LSU showed some resiliency late in the game, nearly erasing a 14-point deficit with just more than six minutes remaining.

The Lady Tigers’ defense that came into the matchup giving up only 46.6 points per game clamped down, and the offense awoke from its slumber.

Leading 55-41, Florida missed eight consecutive shots while the Lady Tigers caught fire, sinking four of their next six shots along with four free throws to trim the lead to two points.

But the Gators recovered from LSU’s fast flurry of punches to outscore the Lady Tigers, 7 to 5, over the final 2:28 and end LSU’s win streak at 10.

“When playing catch up, there

is usually a series there where you either tie it or you pull ahead, but if you don’t get to that tie, it exhausts you,” LSU coach Nikki Caldwell said in a press release. “In three or four SEC games we have had to play catch up. We have proven that we can come back but we continue to dig ourselves a hole. Today, we weren’t able to come out of that hole.”

The Lady Tigers received strong efforts from senior forwards LaSondra Barrett and Courtney Jones, who combined for 32 points on 11-of-16 shooting and 19 rebounds in the loss.

Aside from Jones and Barrett, the rest of the Lady Tigers struggled from the field against the Gators’ connecting on just 9-of-39 shots from the field, including an ice cold 1-for-10 from the three-point line.

It was LSU’s first loss in conference play, and the 4-0 start in the SEC was its best since the 2007-08 season. Just before LSU students started their finals week, the Lady Tigers looked like a team struggling with the transition between former coach Van Chancellor and his successor, Nikki Caldwell.

LSU had dropped two consecutive games to Big Ten opponents, dropping its record to 3-3 and

knocking it out of the top 25.

But LSU found its stride when the fall semester was officially in the books. The Lady Tigers reeled off 10 consecutive wins, using a suffocating defense that held opponents to just 28 percent shooting during the streak.

But LSU can also chalk up a number of its wins to resurgent play from its offense, specifically from senior guard Destini Hughes, who delivered a career-high 17 points against Mississippi State and eclipsed double digits two other times. “[The offense] is clicking a little bit better because of Destini Hughes,” Caldwell said. “I really feel like she stepped up her offensive execution.”

Hughes added an extra offensive dimension to her game that she didn’t have early in the season.

“She’s always been very constant for us in getting the basketball to the right people,” Caldwell said of Hughes. “But now she’s stepping up and being productive on the offensive end.”

Seven of Hughes’ eight best scoring efforts have come during the LSU win streak, and she has scored eight or more points in LSU’s last

BRIANNA PACIORKA / The Daily Reveille

LSU senior forward LaSondra Barrett (55) drives past a South Carolina defender Jan. 12 in the Tigers’ 58-48 victory against the Gamecocks in the PMAC.

seven games.

Hughes’ standout performance during the break and the stout defense helped LSU outscore opponents by an average of 23.6 points per game in its 10 consecutive wins.

The Lady Tigers will look to get

back in the win column Thursday in Knoxville, Tenn., against No. 6 Tennessee.

Contact Luke Johnson at ljohnson@lsureveille.com

SWIMMING AND DIVING

Divers face tough competition at winter break meets Chandler Rome

Sports Contributor

The LSU men’s and women’s diving teams faced stiff competition during winter break, thriving on momentum from a strong end to the fall season.

Coach Doug Shaffer got a glimpse of how his team compares with the nation’s elite during trips to the USA Diving Winter National Championships and the Georgia Diving Invitational.

“When you face tough competition, it requires you to be on your game,” Shaffer said. “I was really happy with our performances.”

The Lady Tigers’ (2-2, 1-1 Southeastern Conference) duo of junior Elle Schmidt and freshman Alex Bettridge had an impressive showing at the Georgia Invitational. Bettridge collected a fourthplace finish on the one-meter springboard and a sixth-place finish on the platform.

“I did well, but there’s certainly places where I can improve,” Bettridge said. “There’s missing spots in my list that I can improve on.”

Bettridge’s fierce athleticism and competitive nature make her a powerful force, Shaffer said.

“She just has a real Tiger desire,” Shaffer said. “I have nothing but a bright outlook for her as an LSU Tiger.”

Bettridge, who is still adjusting to collegiate diving, was encouraged by her dives over the break.

“I feel so close to the team,” Bettridge said. “I have a lot more time with [Shaffer]. I want to

achieve the goals that I’ve been going towards, and the SEC [championship] and NCAA [championship] are my last chance.”

The Tigers (1-3, 1-2 SEC) were propelled by sophomore Daniel Helm and senior Matt Vieke, who admit to engaging in friendly sparring.

“Me and Vieke always go at

it,” Helm said. “It’s a good little rivalry. We push each other.”

Helm collected a fourth-place finish on the three-meter dive at the Georgia Invitational, with Vieke close behind in fifth. Similarly, Helm finished fifth on the platform with Vieke just behind his teammate in seventh.

Helm said the winter break

competition served as a benchmark and motivator for the Tigers and Lady Tigers, with both teams gaining valuable experience for the SEC championships in February.

“This is the last leg of the race,” Helm said. “We just have to kick it into high gear and finish strong.”

Vieke said he hopes his early

solid performances will continue.

The LSU swimming and diving teams return to competition with a dual meet against future SEC foe Texas A&M on Jan. 21 at noon at the LSU Natatorium.

Contact Chandler Rome at crome@lsureveille.com

The Daily Reveille

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

GYMNASTICS

page 11

LSU wins at home versus Auburn Alex Cassara

Sports Contributor

The LSU gymnastics squad proved there’s no place like home after a shaky performance in Cancun, Mexico, last week.

The Lady Tigers (1-4, 1-0 Southeastern Conference) won Friday’s home opener against Auburn 195.025-193.800, at the PMAC, one week after a disappointing last-place showing at the Cancun Classic.

LSU led 146.075-145.675 heading into the final rotation, and two back-to-back scores of 9.900 on the floor from freshmen Rheagan Courville and Lloimincia Hall, combined with three Auburn falls on the balance beam, sealed the victory.

LSU took three of four events, faltering only on the uneven bars.

“We saw a team tonight,” said LSU coach D-D Breaux. “Nothing shook them, and as the night progressed we got momentum going and had a real team effort.”

Along with Jessie Jordan, Hall and Courville, formed a trio

of freshmen that helped guide the team to victory. Injuries barred sophomore Kaleigh Dickson from competing and limited sophomore Sarie Morrison to the uneven bars.

Hall posted a score of 39.200 to win the all-around title, and Jordan and Courville rounded out the top three all-around scores with marks of 39.025 and 38.925, respectively.

“I have it in my heart to do my very best,” Hall said. “I know I’m here for the team. It did my heart good for the team to win. It’s definitely an honor and I’m blessed to have this title in my [first] home meet. But to say LSU won is unbelievable.”

The results were markedly different when the two teams met in Mexico the week before. Auburn placed third with a score of 194.775, while LSU came in fifth by producing a 192.500, its lowest score in a meet since 1998. The squad suffered eight falls across the four different events.

“In preparation last week we felt we were really ready,” Breaux said. “We had some very consistent

intersquads and everything was great leading up to the meet, even in warm-ups. But we had some falls in the second event and sometimes when that happens things start to tumble downhill.”

Known for her intensity, Breaux turned it up in practice the week following their trip to Cancun. Needing more from her upperclassmen, she particularly pushed juniors Ericka Garcia and Shelby Prunty, who were both coming off injuries.

Garcia scored a 9.750 and Prunty marked a 9.800 to lead the Tigers on beam in the third rotation.

“The ones who had me most in their faces this week were those two,” Breaux said. “They thanked me after their dismounts.”

LSU will travel to Fayetteville, Ark., on Friday to take on Arkansas.

Contact Alex Cassara at acassara@lsureveille.com

TRACK AND FIELD

Tigers win seven track events

LSU takes on Aggies on Saturday Michael Gegenheimer Sports Contributor

The Tigers’ track and field program hit the ground running Saturday in the season’s opening meet at the Crimson Tide Indoor Opener in Birmingham, Ala. LSU won seven events in the opener and set nine indoor personal bests between the men’s and women’s programs.

The No. 2 Lady Tigers claimed five individual event wins, while the No. 3 Tigers took home two victories.

“It being the first competition and asking our athletes to only do one event each, I thought we showed

good concentration and focus,” LSU coach Dennis Shaver said. “Whenever you can perform personal bests in the first meet, that only means more good things to come.”

LSU senior Semoy Hackett took the women’s 60-meter dash, posting a 7.36 time and edging out Auburn junior Kai Selvon by a narrow .02-second margin.

Senior Cassandra Tate won the women’s 200-meter dash (23.71), while junior Charlene Lipsey took the women’s mile run (4:52.37).

LSU swept the 400-meter dash with senior Rebecca Alexander finishing in 54.12 seconds and junior Caleb Williams winning with a 47.38 time. Williams beat Mississippi State junior All-American Tavaris Tate by a slim .05-second margin.

The meet was rounded out

by Tiger senior Marcus McGehee taking the men’s pole vault with a

height of 16-6.75 feet.

Both programs are coming into the season expecting to contend for a program 12th women’s national indoor title and third men’s indoor title.

“Honestly, we’re used to that every year,” Shaver said. “We expect our teams to be competitive at the beginning and the end. ... I tell them [the season] is like a tall ladder. Every day at practice you have to climb another rung.”

The team is preparing for a hyped dual meet Saturday against Texas A&M. Both Aggie teams are ranked in preseason polls, with the men’s team No. 12 and the women’s team at No. 17.

Contact Michael Gegenheimer at mgegenheimer@lsureveille.com

AUSTIN BENNETT / The Daily Reveille

Freshman Rheagan Courville scored a 9.375 on beam Friday in the gymnastics meet versus Auburn in the PMAC.

The Daily Reveille

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

page 13

Alabama gets its second chance while Jarrett Lee doesn’t MIC’D UP Micah Bedard Sports columnist

File photo

LSU senior quarterback Jarrett Lee (12) throws a pass during pregame warmups Sept.15 before the Tigers’ 19-6 victory against Mississippi State.

Alabama offensive tackle Barrett Jones said in the weeks leading up to the BCS National Championship that the Crimson Tide had been given a second chance at “restoring the order” in college football.

It’s safe to say the 4.0 student knew what he was talking about.

LSU simply did not show up.

Alabama appeared more motivated and determined, shutting out the Tigers in the very same venue where LSU won its two most recent national titles.

Give all the credit to Nick Saban and his coaching staff, especially offensive coordinator Jim McElwain, who called the game of his life despite having one foot out the door as he accepted a head coaching job at Colorado State in December.

The Crimson Tide made the most of its second shot to overthrow undefeated LSU after the Tigers snuck out of Tuscaloosa, Ala., on Nov. 5 with a 9-6 victory in overtime.

Some will say Saban and his team should not have made it to New Orleans, but that is beside the fact. Regardless of whether Alabama deserved to be in the title game, LSU should have been better prepared to face the Crimson Tide again.

They weren’t.

The usually potent LSU offense that averaged 35.7 points per game during the regular season put up a goose egg and only

managed 92 yards of total offense.

While Alabama mixed up its offensive attack with play action roll-outs that utilized quarterback A.J. McCarron’s strengths, LSU used the same barely effective option attack and bubble screens from the first meeting. The conservative play-calling made me wonder at one point if Gary Crowton had slipped into the coaches’ box and took the headset from offensive coordinator Greg Studrawa.

The chip on LSU senior quarterback Jordan Jefferson’s shoulder during the regular season vanished in the postseason games against Georgia and Alabama. Instead he returned to the quarterback that LSU fans have loved to hate over the last four years.

He fumbled snaps and missed throws, and after a flickof-the-wrist interception directly into the hands of C.J. Mosley in the 3rd quarter, the “Jarrett Lee” chants began.

So how did Alabama get another chance to defeat LSU while Lee, as WWL radio host Bobby Hebert so eloquently put it in the post-game press conference, sat on the sideline?

The answer is simple — Les Miles has been living and dying by Jordan Jefferson for four years.

What made anyone think he would buck that trend?

I’ve seen Jefferson put together much worse performances in his career than he did in the title game, and Les still stuck with him.

Lee is a standup guy who persevered at LSU after one of the worst freshman seasons a quarterback could have. In his final season he led LSU to a 9-0 record as a starter.

A month was more than enough time for Alabama’s defense to prepare for the option and Jefferson’s scrambling ability.

The Tigers would have never gotten the chance to give such an uninspired effort in the BCS game without Lee leading the team in the first nine games.

He should be applauded for the leadership and dependability he showed on the field this year and for never running his mouth (cough, Russell Shepard) about playing second fiddle to Jefferson the last three games.

Tiger fans should not fret at the one loss LSU had at the end of the season. They should celebrate a great season and how much the team accomplished during the year.

After all, Zach Mettenberger and the 2012 home opener in Tiger Stadium against North Texas is a mere 228 days away.

Micah Bedard is a 21-year old mass communication senior from Houma. Follow him on Twitter @DardDog.

Contact Micah Bedard at mbedard@lsureveille.com

page 14 LOOKING AHEAD, from page 9 Jarrett Lee as the LSU signal caller.

The inconsistent quarterback play through the last few seasons has had fans eagerly awaiting Mettenberger’s opportunity to start.

LSU will return all its running backs from 2011 and will only lose Will Blackwell and T-Bob Hebert from an offensive line that paved the way for the Southeastern

STRUGGLES, from page 9 time at Auburn.

Gabriel is one of the league’s most versatile performers, averaging 11.5 points, eight rebounds, two steals and three blocks per game.

Junior guard Frankie Sullivan is often Gabriel’s running mate in the Auburn backcourt, averaging a team-high 11.6 points per game.

For LSU, the refrain for improvement, starting against Auburn, is familiar: offensive efficiency.

The Tigers have held 11

Conference leaders in total rushing yards.

Rising junior Josh Williford is the front-runner to replace Blackwell, and the Tigers will likely be aided by the return of offensive guard Josh Dworaczyk, who missed 2011 due to injury but is expected to receive a medical redshirt and sixth year of eligibility.

“I’m keeping my fingers crossed and hoping everything opponents below the 60-point plateau this season, winning 10 of those games.

But when LSU’s defense has even marginally loosened, it’s spelled trouble for a Tiger squad that has relied on winning the turnover margin and a strong post game to wear down foes in their victories.

Turner, an All-SEC Freshman selection last year, has been at the forefront of the Tigers’ perimeter scoring woes this season.

Since pouring in 22 points to spur LSU’s marquee non-conference victory against No. 10

The Daily Reveille

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

works out,” Dworaczyk said. “It looks good right now, and I have a lot of confidence.”

Along the defensive line, LSU must replace Brockers, who had 54 tackles and two sacks last season, and defensive end Ken Adams, who added 12 starts and 22 tackles.

Miles said Josh Downs, Ego Ferguson and Anthony Johnson should compete for Brockers’ spot.

“We’ve got talent all around

the board,” Brockers said. “In the spring, those guys have to fight for position, because they can start anywhere in the country, on any team.”

The Tigers also graduate three linebackers from the 2011 squad — Ryan Baker, Stefoin Francois and Karnell Hatcher — but rising juniors Kevin Minter, Tahj Jones and Lamin Barrow, who all received significant playing time, are

expected to fill the void.

In the secondary, LSU will need to replace Claiborne, a Thorpe Award winner and potential topfive draft pick. Heisman Trophy finalist Tyrann Mathieu and fellow rising junior Tharold Simon started opposite Claiborne in 2011.

Marquette on Dec. 19, Turner has averaged just six points in the last six games and made only four of his 24 shots in three conference games.

“One thing we’ve been trying to encourage him with is just being a little more confident when he catches in position to shoot,” said senior reserve guard Chris Bass.

“I see him hesitate sometimes, and he didn’t do that as much last year.

He’s putting in the work to get the shots falling again, but I think it starts with that aggressiveness.”

Junior center Justin Hamilton, an Iowa State transfer, has

emerged as a go-to threat in the paint for LSU. Hamilton has been the lone bright spot during the Tigers’ dismal January, averaging 18 points and 10 rebounds since the calendar turned to 2012.

His 44-point, 25-rebound week against Virginia and Ole Miss earned Hamilton SEC Player of the Week honors two weeks ago.

Despite the recent losses, senior forward Storm Warren said he has seen a humble vibe within the Tiger locker room — a reassuring sign for a youthful squad that is also missing freshman Johnny

O’Bryant III for the rest of the month due to a fractured hand.

“I’ve been here and been through the ups and downs,” Warren said. “I like that we’re accepting any challenge that comes. The guys haven’t been cocky when we were winning, and they’re not accepting defeat right now. Auburn is our first step back, and a game that will show our resilience.”

Contact Hunter Paniagua at hpaniagua@lsureveille.com

Contact Chris Abshire at cabshire@lsureveille.com

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Entertainment

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

TELEVISION

page 15

University alumnus works with Betty White in TV show

Actor’s Web series to shoot second season Josh Naquin Entertainment Writer

From stately oaks and broad magnolias to a hit Web series and hobnobbing with Betty White, actor and University alumnus Nathan Frizzell has come a long way.

The actor recently received word that “Bloomers,” a Web series in which he played a main character, will shoot a second season. The series was well received, and one of Frizzell’s

colleagues, as well as the directors, was nominated for Indie Soap Awards in December Frizzell describes “Bloomers” as a modern version of “Friends” meets “The Office.”

He compares his character, Ross Buchanan, to Jim Halpert from “The Office,” as they are both “all-American doofuses.” Frizzell said the show’s cast, which includes students from an acting class he takes in Los Angeles, is excited to shoot another season of the show — especially with the prospect of a higher budget.

Beyond “Bloomers,” Frizzell has appeared in episodes of “Veronica Mars” and “CSI: New York.” He recently finished

taping a guest spot on TV Land’s “Hot in Cleveland,” in which he got to perform with famed actress Betty White.

“She’s everything you expect Betty White to be,” Frizzell said.

“The woman’s 90 years old with a razor-sharp wit.”

Frizzell also takes pride in appearing in a currently running Coors Light commercial.

“It ran during a Saints game this year, and I had friends and family calling me to verify that they’d seen me in the commercial,” Frizzell said.

The acting bug bit Frizzell early — ­ he started doing ACTOR, see page 18

photo courtesy of NATHAN FRIZZELL

Nathan Frizzell with Betty White on the set of “Hot In Cleveland” in November.

Pin it

Beyoncé and Jay-Z have the baby blues Couple named daughter Blue Ivy

photos by HAYLIE NAVARRE / The Daily Reveille

Residence Life Coordinator Monelle Wells created this nail art [above] and clutch purse [top right] by copying popular “pins” from the website Pinterest. [Bottom right] Mass communication junior Olivia Olinde created art prints inspired by photos she saw on Pinterest.

Pinterest gains popularity as virtual pinboard for favorite things

Haylie Navarre

Entertainment Writer

If someone knows what they’re looking for, a simple Google search will most likely deliver the wanted results.

But no search engine can help that person discover new ideas and hobbies he

or she might not have thought to look for — until now.

Pinterest is a free website where users can add, or “pin,” photos and links to websites of interest on virtual pin boards, creating virtual collages.

History and anthropology sophomore Maria Guidry described

Pinterest as a “more girly version” of Tumblr. Guidry began using Pinterest during finals week in December as a source of procrastination.

She said she likes to use Pinterest to read recipes, especially ones that PINTEREST, see page 19

The last several months have been busy for one of the music industry’s most talked-about couples, Jay-Z and Beyoncé.

Beyoncé released her fourth studio album, titled “4,” last June, and it immediately took the top spot on the Billboard 200 albums chart. Not to be out-done by his boo, JayZ released his collaboration al- Haylie Navarre bum with Kanye Entertainment Writer West, “Watch the Throne,” in August, which reached platinum status by mid-September.

The Jay and Bey fever ramped up with Beyoncé’s announcement at the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards that she was expecting — and not just another Grammy nomination.

Beyoncé broke the news by unbuttoning her coat after her performance to reveal a baby bump five months in the making.

Frenzied tweeters set a new world record over the announcement. Twitter’s official global public relations feed recorded 8,868 tweets per second at 10:35 p.m. on BABYONCE, see page 19

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

PHILANTHROPY

The Daily Reveille

page 17

Volunteers commemorate Martin Luther King Jr. Day BR serves MLK message of unity

“This mural can show the students the importance of education.

I know I wouldn’t have had the opportunity for an education if it were not for Dr. Martin Luther King,” Strauder said as she painted a muRaylea Barrow ral depicting high school graduates.

Entertainment Writer Da’Anne Lipscomb, La Belle Selfless acts, spoken word and Aire Elementary principal, said alan array of colorful service projects though the MLK Day of Service is can make an impact on a commu- a holiday, it is more of an opportunity to unite and come together. nity.

“We have a sisterhood with Students and Baton Rouge community volunteers celebrated Bellaire High School,” Lipscomb Martin Luther King Jr. Day through said.

King’s legacy the arts. will continue to be Baton Rouge MLK commemorative community volun- celebration event schedule: honored through the beginning of teers joined differFebruary with a ent service events Martin Luther King & Black History performing arts Monday, including events headed by Month Commemorative Celebration night, a diverse diCity Year Baton on Jan. 25 at the Manship Theatre. alogues panel and a commemorative Rouge, the Unicelebration on Jan. versity Office of Martin Luther King Performing Arts AMY BROUSSARD / The Daily Reveille 25 featuring Vir- Students, teachers and volunteers at Belaire High School paint murals Monday promoting school spirit and enthusiasm during Multicultural Af- Night on Jan. 26 in the Cotillion ginia Tech profes- Martin Luther King Jr. Day of service. Additional MLK commemorative events will be held throughout the month. fairs and the Mar- Ballroom of the Student Union. sor and world-retin Luther King nowned poet Nikki Magazine Woman of the Year to a Giovanni said. “It makes us a better the community a chance to give Jr. Commemora- Diverse Dialogues on Feb. 1 in the back. tive Committee. Magnolia Performing Arts Pavilion of Giovanni, whose Grammy nomination for her Nikki country.”

As a result of the popular“People are always looking out poetry served as Giovanni Poetry Collection of spoBoth organizations Baton Rouge Community College. ity of her poems and her activism, for number one,” she said. “There is a voice for the ken-word recordings . serve the commuAfrican-American Giovanni said nothing can take Giovanni has met with many influ- a little more to life than ourselves.” nity annually by community in the the place of poetry in terms of com- ential African-Americans such as beautifying local All events begin at 6 p.m.

Rosa Parks, Lina Horne and Jay-Z. fight for civil rights munity impact. areas.

Giovanni said the MLK Day “Anybody raises a voice.

Efforts promoted using the during the 1960s and onward.

Contact Raylea Barrow at Giovanni has won many If you just do what you think is of Service not only gives King “the holiday “as a day on, not a day off,” rbarrow@lsureveille.com according to the MLK Day of Ser- awards ranging from Ebony right, some good comes from it,” credit he deserves” but also gives vice Facebook group.

That was the case for City Year, a nonprofit organization working toward support of education and lending academic assistance to struggling local students.

Delicia Van Gurp, City Year project leader and director of event planning, said City Year corp members chose to partake in the MLK Day of Service because much of their organization’s purpose coincides with King’s beliefs.

“We wish to create a beloved community,” Gurp said, “[Martin Luther King Day of Service] is about helping each other move forward.”

City Year partnered with Belaire High School and La Belle Aire Elementary for their MLK projects.

Volunteers painted four murals for the school, designed by Jo Reddick, City Year corps member, including paintings of the Belaire Bengal mascot, inspirational quotes and a jazz-inspired collage for the school band room. Volunteers also retouched different parts of La Belle Aire Elementary, including a map of the United States.

Jordan Cranch, University alumnus and corps member, organized volunteers into groups and directed them on how to paint the murals.

“Please paint the murals carefully,” Cranch said to volunteers.

“They will be up on these walls for a long time.”

Tara Strauder, University accounting graduate student, volunteered with her friend, Erica Moss, administrative coordinator for Facility Services. Strauder said she has always volunteered for MLK Find a place to live, a roommate and much more!

Day of Service and found out about City Year’s event through Hands On Baton Rouge, a local volunteer service program.

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The Daily Reveille

page 18

BATON ROUGE COMMUNITY

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Zumbathon attracts local dance enthusiasts, athletes Event raises money for Big Buddy

because I really love the workout as well as the organization.”

Jade Bryan, assistant director for Diversity, Inclusion and Civic Engagement at the Center for Student-Athletes, said the Joey Groner program partners with Big Buddy Entertainment Writer several times throughout the year.

Supporters of Baton Rouge’s Bryan said many student-athletes Big Buddy organization came out enjoy the opportunity to take part in droves to the Maddox Field- in community service. house on Saturday morning to “We’ve really started detake part in the group’s first-ever veloping a partnership with Big Zumbathon.

Buddy,” Bryan said. “Our stuAbout 50 attendees took part dent-athletes were really excited in the high-energy workout rou- about helping the program out in tine, which is primarily based such a fun way.” around Latin and Gaylynne Mack, Big Budhip-hop dance.

‘It’s all about dy’s executive University everybody having a director, said the student-athletes event was born participated in the good time — plus out of her own exercise through it’s for a great cause.’ enthusiasm for the CHAMPS/ the exercise.

Life Skills proDanielle Martin “My Zumba gram, which gets LSU track student-athlete student-athletes instructor did a similar event involved with the community. Senior track thrower for Cancer Services,” Mack Danielle Martin, who is also a said. “She was the one who apcertified Zumba instructor, said proached me with the idea to do she jumped at the opportunity to this for Big Buddy, which was something I had never thought take part in the event.

“As soon as I found out that of.”

The idea couldn’t have come they were doing Zumbathon, I was really excited,” Martin said. at a better time, Mack said. Near “I was so happy that it was one the end of 2011, the organization of the times I could commit to abruptly lost a federal grant and

is now attempting to replace lost funds.

“We lost about $170,000 for this year,” Mack said. “We had to let some staff go and stop taking in students and mentors, but now we’re just trying to piece everything together for this year.”

Saturday’s Zumbathon was a fundraiser specifically for the organization’s mentoring branch.

Mack said this is the area of Big Buddy that she is most concerned about.

“Mentoring gives young people an opportunity to be exposed to the different things in our community,” Mack said. “If you only see what’s in your neighborhood, you don’t strive to be more, and if your neighborhood isn’t the best place, then that’s how you end up.”

Martin, who acted as the group’s instructor on several occasions, said she could tell the crowd had a great time taking part in the event.

“I’ve done a few of these types of events before, and they’re just so much fun,” Martin said. “It’s all about everybody having a good time — plus it’s for a great cause.”

on something.”

The sails of Frizzell’s acting career have since caught the wind of employment, and he finds himself drifting in several directions.

Frizzell has appeared in various plays in Los Angeles in addition to his forays into television acting.

Frizzell advises current theatre students to gain as much training and experience as they can while in school.

“Actors should remember that it’s a business, and they can’t take it personally if they don’t get picked for a role,” Frizzell said.

“They just need to keep putting themselves out there.”

ACTOR, from page 15

community theater at age 7. But he did not consider acting as a serious career path until attending LSU. “I was originally a political science major as a freshman,” Frizzell said.

The 29-year-old said his perspective on acting was altered when he was cast in a lead role in a play at the University during his freshman year. The director of the play, John Dennis, pulled Frizzell into his office shortly after the casting process to question him on his major.

Frizzell told Dennis he enjoyed theater but was majoring in political science to have “something safe to fall back on.” “[Dennis] told me college was a great building experience for acting and that I should use the time to get all of the training I could get,” Frizzell said.

Frizzell credits the University with helping him transition from a performer with good instincts into a trained actor.

“School turned my acting into something real through training,” Frizzell said. “[It] helped me focus on what I wanted as an actor and how to approach acting as a business.”

Frizzell moved to Los Angeles after graduating from the University in August 2003 with a degree in theatre, but the actor didn’t forget the advice he received on campus.

“The more you put yourself out there, the better your chances are of having your work recognized,” Frizzell said. “So I tried to always be working

Contact Joey Groner at jgroner@lsureveille.com

Contact Josh Naquin at jnaquin@lsureveille.com

“A man who stops advertising to save money, is like a man who stops the clock to save time.”

-Henry Ford

We can help. 225-578-6090

XERXES A. WILSON / The Daily Reveille

Freshman gymnast Randi Lau dances on Saturday with “little buddy” Alana Buckley, a second grader at Saint Francis Catholic School, at Zumbathon in the Maddox Fieldhouse.

The Daily Reveille

Tuesday, January 17, 2012 PINTEREST, from page 15

provide healthier versions of her favorite foods. Guidry said she also uses Pinterest to find tasty ways to incorporate more vegetables into her diet.

In addition to the board where she repins recipes, she also has boards for fashion, home decor and one that she calls “pretty things,” where she repins things that inspire her — from photos of a sunset to a pair of shoes.

“I can pull ideas from other people’s photos and get an idea of where to go from there,” Guidry said.

While Guidry commonly repins photos and links from other people, she said she occasionally creates her own pins of websites she finds interesting that haven’t been pinned by her friends.

Pinterest users can add a but- string after seeing it pop up conton to their Web-browser toolbars tinuously under popular pins. She that allows them to easily pin oth- created this nail art in the shape er websites when of Louisiana, with they’re away ‘[Pinterest] highlights a heart around from the PinterOrleans, things about you. If New est page. The butwhich she said ton on the toolbar you look at it, you can took about four to pulls up all photos get a sense of who that five hours. on a website, and First she person is.’ users can select painted the surthe photo they face of a piece of Olivia Olinde want to display on wood, using it as mass communication junior the pin. a canvas. Then Residence she hammered the Life Coordinator Monelle Wells, nails to make the outline of the who works in Kirby Smith Hall, state. The final step was wrapuses Pinterest for do-it-yourself ping the string around the nails to projects and crafts. She hand- create the right aesthetic. made many gifts this Christmas For those who aren’t so from pins she saw on Pinterest. crafty, Wells said many pins link Wells said she decided to to websites such as Etsy, where try to recreate a work of art users can buy handmade or involving carpentry nails and vintage items.

Chris Pizzello / The Associated Press

Beyonce shows off her baby bump at the MTV Video Music Awards on Aug. 28, 2011, in Los Angeles. Blue Ivy Carter has already made her musical debut.

BABYONCE, from page 15

the night of the awards — the thirdmost tweets per second for any one event.

Destiny’s child entered the world with an entire floor of the Lenox Hill Hospital rented out just for her — total diva move. According to The New York Daily News, the hip-hop couple paid $1.3 million to rent out the fourth floor of the Manhattan hospital, essentially putting other new and expecting parents on lockdown.

The couple’s name for their daughter, Blue Ivy Carter, has been the subject of much speculation.

According to The New York Post, her name reflects her father’s “The Blueprint” album series and her mother’s favorite number, four, in Roman numerals.

Though she hasn’t yet broken a tooth, baby Blue is already the target of a conspiracy theory. The source of this conspiracy could be a tweet by a user imitating comedian Katt Williams which read, “I.V.Y. = Illuminati’s Very Youngest B.L.U.E. = Born Living Under Evil. Blue Ivy spelt backwords (Eulb Yvi) = Latin for ‘Lucifers Daughter’.”

While I commend his ability to come up with three- and four-letter acronyms, if he can’t spell correctly using the language in which he’s fluent, why would

anyone trust that this clever tweeter is an authority in Latin?

I’m not fluent in the dead language, and I’m sure few are. But the words “Eulb yvi” look more like a Slavic language. A simple Google translator inquiry can show that “Lucifer’s daughter” in Latin looks a little more like ”filia de Diabolus.”

Despite the large number of Twitter users who reposted accusations of the infant being a member of a secret, fictitious society, my verdict is #IllumiNOTi. But speculation might turn to playing her dad’s records backwards, because Blue Ivy Carter didn’t waste any time starting her music career. Sounds of her crying can be heard on Jay-Z’s new single “Glory,” which was released two days after his daughter’s birth. She is officially the youngest artist to hit Billboard charts and probably the most deserving of the prefix “Lil’.”

Did Roc-A-Fella Records sign her already? She’ll probably be hitting the studio again soon, if ailments like colic and diaper rash don’t get in the way. I’ve heard her new single, ”Glurgg Ga Goo Glurg” will be available on iTunes next month.

Contact Haylie Navarre at hnavarre@lsureveille.com

page 19 “It’s good for everybody who’s crafty, or not crafty, or want to feel crafty,” Wells said.

Mass communication junior Olivia Olinde said Pinterest is more personal than social media sites.

“It highlights things about you. If you look at it, you can get a sense of who that person is,” Olinde said.

Olinde said she frequently used Pinterest last semester to get ideas for projects for an art class. She said it’s a good website to start brainstorming. Similar to writer’s block, Olinde said she sometimes gets “art block,” and she can view other people’s “pins” to spark her creativity.

Olinde said she has one board for inspirational quotes, one for health and fitness and one called “Kicks and Giggs” to repin

things that she thinks are funny.

Pre-nursing freshman Jessica Dombeck is a frequent Pinterest user.

She said she mainly uses Pinterest to find recipes. She recently made cream cheese crescent rolls from a recipe she found on Pinterest and said they were a big hit. She said the recipe was easy and only had a few ingredients.

“I spend more time on Pinterest now than I do on Facebook,” Dombeck said.

Contact Haylie Navarre at hnavarre@lsureveille.com

The Daily Reveille

Opinion

page 20

OUR VIEW

Nixed LSU beer brews disapproval The prospect of an officially licensed LSU beer ran dry last week when Chancellor Michael Martin announced the University would no longer pursue the introduction of Bandit Blonde Ale after the Board of Supervisors took issue with the proposal (see page 3).

LSU System spokesman Charles Zewe told The Daily Reveille that the University failed to formally submit the plan to the board in writing, while the Associated Press reported the University’s contract with the Collegiate Licensing Company, which forbids LSU logos from appearing in association with alcohol, drugs or tobacco products, would have to be amended to allow for the beer to bear the letters “LSU.” With these obstacles, Martin declared Bandit Blonde was “not worth the fight.”

Talk about a buzz kill.

But more relevant than the idea of an LSU beer as a point of pride for fans is the money the University could have made from it — 10 percent of the beer’s sales. We can’t put a definitive price tag on that, but with Tiger fans’ appetites for ale, it’s safe to say LSU would have walked away with significantly heavier pockets.

Perhaps that would have made a dent in the $8 million midyear cut LSU took over winter break.

After years of warnings about the University’s dire financial straits, one might have expected those who govern the LSU System to look past bureaucratic roadblocks like amending a contract in order to create a powerful revenue stream and a teachable moment for business students to learn about the beer industry.

And LSU isn’t the only entity taking a hit here. Consider all the potential profits Tin Roof, co-founded by University alumnus William McGehee, would have enjoyed by brewing an LSU beer.

LSU fans got a hard lesson in missed opportunities at the BCS National Championship, but missing out on a prime business opportunity and windfall profits because of administrative obstructions stings even worse.

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

FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK

After a gloomy break, it’s back to the grind

What? Christmas is over? A new semester already? Say it isn’t so.

Alas, reality sunk in this morning when my alarm emitted a premature cacophony, forcing me to admit that it’s time once again to return to the tedious school routine that follows every Martin Luther King Jr. Day. After a national championship defeat and the announcement of an $8 million midyear budget cut, it

feels like students should be traipsing through campus with black veils hung across their faces in mourning.

Instead, we return, prepared to turn the page on the ostensibly bleak winter we’ve endured so far. No matter the fate of the LSU football team or the extent of the University’s fi- Matthew Jacobs nancial adversi- Editor-in-Chief ties, classrooms will fill up — at least for a few days — and students will embrace the offerings of a fresh semester and a new chapter in LSU’s history book.

As the campus community

wades through the continued uncertainty of just how stingy the University’s budget will be, The Daily Reveille is here to keep you abreast of all the latest updates. Our goal is to inform students of exactly how respective cuts will affect them, while holding the University’s administrators and our state politicians accountable for their decisions.

It’s not all doom and gloom, however, regardless of what the Mayans might say about 2012.

Progress is being made on the much-anticipated parking garage on Raphael Semmes Drive (see page 6), a University student is nuzzling up with Betty White on “Hot in Cleveland” (page 15) and LSU’s landscape architecture program has once again

been named one of the best in the nation (see Wednesday’s edition).

Amid the University’s inevitable ups and downs, The Daily Reveille will be here to cover all news in a timely, comprehensive manner.

Our website, lsureveille.com, provides access to 24-hour updates.

What else can we do to serve the campus community better? Reveille editors are always interested to hear your input. Additionally, if you ever see news happening on campus, please call the Reveille newsroom at 225-578-4810.

Contact Matthew Jacobs at mjacobs@lsureveille.com

SCUM OF THE GIRTH

Election 2012: What you missed over break

I hate to spoil the surprise, but former Massachusetts governor and part-time wax figure Mitt Romney will be the 2012 Republican presidential nominee.

How do I know this? Because I did my best to stay in touch with the political world over the break despite my overwhelming desire to eat like a Texan, drink like a Russian and hibernate like a bear.

While the rest of America was celebrating the holidays with their loved ones, GOP candidates Parker continued to pimp Cramer themselves out to Columnist America’s grassroots communities, showcasing their policies and hoping to stick out from the rest of their comrades.

Two major events took place in the Republican field over the break — the Iowa caucus and the New Hampshire primary. Think of these as prom king nominations. I would say prom queen as well, but our beloved and only female candidate, Congresswoman Michele Bachmann, ended her candidacy shortly after finishing sixth in Iowa.

Let the sausage fest begin.

Iowa was a shocker — most people expected Romney to win because he’s the safe candidate. He is a vetted politician and the only dirt opponents have on him is that he is a flip-flopper.

So he used to love abortions, and now he only sort of likes them in the privacy of his home. We get it. But Romney was not the story from Iowa. The story was Santorum.

Former Pennsylvania senator and confirmed bigot Rick Santorum

The Daily Reveille Editorial Board

Matthew Jacobs Chris Branch Ryan Buxton Bryan Stewart Andrea Gallo Clayton Crockett

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Editor-in-Chief Associate Managing Editor Associate Managing Editor Managing Editor, External Media News Editor Opinion Editor

finished second in Iowa, trailing Romney by a mere eight votes out of some 120,000. Apparently equating homosexual intercourse to pedophilia and bestiality fared pretty well with the Iowa voters.

Congressman Ron Paul, who finished third in Iowa, has consistently polled anywhere from 20 to 22 percent, but never much more than that. His supporters are diehard, but he will never get to debate Obama.

I imagine Texas Gov. Rick Perry will be hanging up his 10 gallon hat sometime soon, perhaps as soon as Romney seals the deal in Florida’s primary Jan. 31. The same goes for Newt Gingrich, because even Republicans have a problem with serving your former-high-schoolgeometry-teacher-turned-wife with divorce papers while she’s still in the hospital recovering from uterine cancer. It’s cool that you were nailing your teacher, but divorcing a cancer

patient? C’mon Newt.

The New Hampshire primary was the same story: Romney wins.

But this time, his margin of victory was much higher.

Romney left New Hampshire with 39.3 percent of the vote. Paul held onto his 22 percent, finishing in second with 22.9 percent.

The surprise in New Hampshire was with former Utah governor and U.S. Ambassador to China, Jon Huntsman. Huntsman, who gained a measly 0.6 percent of the vote in Iowa, secured 16.9 percent of the vote in New Hampshire, finishing in a comfortable third place.

The next two primaries will be held in South Carolina on Jan. 21 and in Florida on Jan. 31. I would be pleasantly surprised to see someone besides Romney win any upcoming primary, but I don’t think it will happen.

In fact, I would be surprised if

Editorial Policies & Procedures

The Daily Reveille (USPS 145-800) is written, edited and produced solely by students of Louisiana State University.

The Daily Reveille is an independent entity within the Manship School of Mass Communication. Signed opinions are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of the editor, paper or University. Letters submitted for publication should be sent via e-mail to opinion@lsureveille.com or delivered to B-26 Hodges Hall. They must be 400 words or less. Letters must have a contact phone number so the opinion editor can verify the author. The phone number won’t be printed. The Daily Reveille reserves the right to edit letters and guest columns for space consideration without changing the original intent. The Daily Reveille also reserves the right to reject any letter without notification of the author. Writers must include their full names and phone numbers. The Daily Reveille’s editor-in-chief, hired every semester by the Louisiana State University Media Board, has final authority on all editorial decisions.

TIM MORGAN / The Daily Reveille

Perry could win Texas at this point.

The questions Republicans have to ask themselves now are: Can two Mormons make a right? Could Mitt Romney and Jon Huntsman possibly form the first all-Mormon presidential ticket? Could they win?

Nevertheless, I highly doubt any of the Republicans could beat Obama.

Look at it as a football game: Obama is Alabama and the Republicans are LSU. Republicans look strong going in, but it won’t be long before the GOP realizes they don’t have a quarterback.

Parker Cramer is a 20-yearold political science junior from Houston. Follow him on Twitter @TDR_pcramer.

Contact Parker Cramer at pcramer@lsureveille.com

Quote of the Day

“I have no problem with homosexuality. I have a problem with homosexual acts.”

Sen. Rick Santorum Republican Presidential Candidate May 10, 1958 - Present

The Daily Reveille

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

THE C-SECTION

Opinion

page 21

Alternatives merit consideration when buying books

Wait!

Don’t sell your books back yet, and don’t buy them, either.

If you’ve been in college long enough, you’re familiar with the thievery intertwined in the business of textbook sales at the Co-Op Bookstore, Chimes Textbook Exchange and even the LSU Bookstore.

These outlets promise “cash for books” at the end of each semester, but usually only provide pocket change to students selling their textbooks.

These stores often buy used textbooks for insanely low percentages of the original price, only to sell them at prices hardly discounted from that of a new book.

Take, for example, “Mass Media Revolution,” which is used in Mass Communication 2000. The textbook is sold for $95.20 new and $71.40 used at all of the bookstores — only a 25 percent discount.

During their buyback period, the Co-Op Bookstore will pay 50 percent of the price of a new book

for a used book. This is under the assumption professors will use it again, which is unlikely because textbooks often change editions on an annual basis.

Personally, I spent about $500 on textbooks last semester and made about $75 after selling my books back. This was mostly a result of textbook editions changChris Grillot ing.

When it Columnist comes to getting enough value out of textbooks, students have a problem, and we need solutions.

One place to go is Craigslist, where people post listings for various goods. Since Craigslist is unregulated, however, things can get to be a bit sketchy, pushing people away from using the site.

On Amazon, users can buy new and used books for far cheaper than at bookstores. “Mass Media

Revolution,” for example, is sold at all Baton Rouge bookstores for $95.20. On Amazon, it’s going for about $75 new.

Another example is “Campbell Biology,” which is required for Biology 1201 and 1202. Bookstores are selling it for $202.65 new when it can be purchased for about $155 new on Amazon.

While Amazon offers a great alternative, it has its downfalls.

Firstly, you have to wait a few days for your books depending on your shipment method. Secondly, the best deals on Amazon are generally from third-party sellers and aren’t eligible for expedited shipping.

Renting books is another alternative, but can still be expensive.

Also, renting is not available for all books, and some stores have vague rules on what customers can and can’t do to the book as far as highlighting and underlining.

Fortunately, there’s a promising new solution which became available Monday.

Electrical engineering junior

Hans Weggeman created a website essentially combining Noteswap, Craigslist and Facebook to ease the way students deal with used textbooks.

The website, titled Stroupp (combining “study” and “group”), offers students a way to connect with other students in their classes to buy, sell and swap books and notes through classified-style ads.

“When you pay $150 for a book and get a fraction of that price when you sell it back, you’re just not getting your money’s worth,” Weggeman said.

To register with Stroupp, one must have a “.edu” e-mail address, and once registered with the site, students can enroll themselves in classes, allowing them to post homework, notes and ads for other students in their classes.

Weggeman said the classified ads would be safer than Craigslist because you only have to deal with students.

“It basically cuts out the middleman,” Weggeman said.

“Students can even trade books instead of buy and sell.”

If this site takes off at the University, our problems with secondhand textbook sales may fade. It will take time, but if the site does take root, we could see a difference in the value we get out of our textbooks.

“This is a site that saves a real ‘x’ amount of money each year,” Weggeman said.

We’re already broke college kids, and it doesn’t help when the bookstores screw us. An idea like this offers a new way for students to connect and get the most value out of books. Let’s try it out.

Chris Grillot is a 20-year-old English and mass communication senior from New Orleans. Follow him on Twitter @TDR_cgrillot.

Contact Chris Grillot at cgrillot@lsureveille.com

PRESS X TO NOT DIE

International CES provides insight to future technology Normally, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. But when it comes to the world of shiny new gadgets, that isn’t the case.

The annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES) was held in Las Vegas last week, giving a glimpse into the future of HD, 3-D, OLED, PC and just about any other acronym.

While one could write a column a week for the rest of the year detailing everything shown off at the convention, I’ll stick with only the most impressive items from CES 2012.

Tablet PCs were all the rage this past holiday season. Yet, anything you may have received under the tree pales in comparison to what Razer is cooking up.

Razer introduced a prototype of its new gaming tablet, Fiona.

While games like “Angry Birds” or “Infinity Blade II” look stunning on an iPad, the Fiona pushes tablet gaming to its limit, boasting an Intel Core i7 processor — that’s usually only seen in high-end computers.

What this processor allows the Fiona to do is run PC-quality games, such as “The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim,” on high settings in stunning high definition.

Users can control the game using either the tablet’s 10.1-inch touchscreen or two joysticks jutting out on each side of the device.

The Fiona currently runs Windows 7, but Razer is optimistic it will run the newly unveiled Windows 8 by launch.

It’s a slick-looking device, but with its strange apparatus it seems more like an oversized PSP than a true tablet.

While tablets may be the current hot item in the tech world, 3-D displays have been on people’s minds since they invaded homes the past few years. Unfortunately for those who like to watch movies with a little more dimension, these set-ups can be pricey, and the need for special glasses is a turnoff to those with more than one friend.

Adam Arinder Toshiba is Columnist trying to change that by unveiling its new glassesfree 3-D television.

Glasses-free 3-D tech isn’t new — it’s been on cameras and Nintendo’s 3DS since last year — but the scale Toshiba is pushing with its new TV is staggering.

The 55-inch display allows nine people to view a movie in all three dimensions without overpriced glasses. The television scans the room and instructs viewers on where to sit for optimal 3-D viewing.

Finally, one of the most gorgeous things on the CES floor was Samsung’s 55-inch organic lightemitting diode (OLED) TV. This is the first time we’ve seen OLED technology on such a grand scale.

Normally restricted to screens in the 10- to 20-inch range, Samsung’s new “Super OLED” screen is like staring at your iPhone 4 or 4S screen — only much larger.

The TV is only 5 millimeters thin (about the width of your pinky’s fingernail) and boasts a gorgeous scale of colors, deep blacks and absolutely no

JACK DEMPSEY / The Associated Press

The Sony Tablet P is displayed Monday following a news conference at the 2012 International CES in Las Vegas.

motion-blur.

It’ll also ship with Samsung’s “Smart TV,” allowing for voice recognition and motion-based control — think Microsoft Kinect meets “Back to the Future Part II.” It is truly one of the most impressive pieces of tech I’ve seen,

and the good news is that Samsung is promising its release before the end of 2012.

Maybe what happened during CES should’ve stayed in Vegas.

While the future looks bright, all the gadgets I have now seem old and out-dated.

Adam Arinder is a 22-year-old communication studies senior from Baton Rouge. Follow him on Twitter @TDR_aarinder.

Contact Adam Arinder at aarinder@lsureveille.com