Centenary College of Louisiana's weekly, independent student-run newspaper. Contact: paper@centenary.edu.

1. The
Conglomerate
November 30, 2007 Centenary College of Louisiana’s Weekly Independent Press Volume 84, Issue 11
Marjorie Lyons
celebrates
its 50th
anninversary
Jenni Loer
Theatre Correspondent
Marjorie Lyons Playhouse is celebrating
its fiftieth anniversary with a show that will
commemorate the productions and the
influential people who have made theatre at
Centenary College an important part of the
arts in Shreveport. The show features musical
numbers and scenes from productions over the
past fifty years performed by alumni, community
performers, and students. John Matthews is
the musical director and Joy Ratcliffe is the
accompanist. The production will include
special performances by Orlin Corey, Joe Graber,
and Seva May, along with Paul Cambeilh and
Jody Kirk Elliot, who will perform a revival of
“The King and I,” the ribbon-cutting production
of 1957. Performances are Saturday, December
1, at 8:00 p.m. and Sunday, December 2, at 2:30
p.m. Tickets are complimentary; seats must be
reserved in advance.
The box office is now open - please call
(318) 869-5242 for ticket reservations.
Photo by Emily DeLatin.
INSIDE
Centenary continues the
controversial mascot
debate on pages 2-4
Attorney General race
results on page 5
Exclusive look at Robinson
Film Center on page 11

2. November 30, 2007 Volume 84, Issue 11
Voting for additional mascot is now open; explained by committee member
Versha Sharma The mascot committee pared down Marketing are all represented, as well good.”
an initial list of 48 ideas to this final as members of SGA and certain sports Those who are concerned about
Editor-in-Chief
list of five. teams. “I don’t think it was biased any arbitrary decision-making need
“[The 48] were submitted last in any way because we had several not worry: the committee had set
After years of debate and
year by students, alumni, faculty, different people from different facets criteria to evaluate each idea. These
discussion, months of deliberation
and staff,” said junior and committee of the college looking at it – there included relevance to Centenary,
and Facebook campaigning, and
member Dione Wrenn. “They were were lots of opinions flying around,” whether or not many other schools
weeks of rumor-mongering (the
all compiled from what people said Wrenn. already use the mascot, whether or
Centenary Swastikas? okay, maybe
were saying at the forum, by alumni The committee narrowed down not a school in our division has it,
that was a letter we printed – it was
sending in things – a couple of years the 48 ideas to 20 at the first meeting. and if the idea is close to home.
funny!), decisive action has finally
ago, there was an idea of having a new “We had to get rid of ridiculous When asked why the Wolves
been taken toward introducing an
mascot, and we put in ideas from that ones, like the ‘Dongs,’” she said. “The (a popular idea circulating since last
additional Centenary mascot.
list as well.” ‘Preachers,’ the ‘Centenary Jazz’ year) did not make it onto the final
Voting is open from now until
The committee has been headed – these are just some different ones list, for example, Wrenn explained
midnight on Sunday, December 2, on
by junior Jared Ward and faculty co- that were on the list.” At least ten that the committee thought it to be
the Centenary website for all current
chair Dr. Robert Prickett. The Student committee members were present too generic and overly used by other
students, faculty, staff, and alumni,
Government Association (SGA) for the process of elimination from schools. Still, the committee has not
and can be reached from the main
formed a Mascot Inquiry committee 48 to 20, and “those who couldn’t be ruled it out completely – if enough
page (www.centenary.edu). Even
last year, and this September, a there physically would email in what people enter it as their alternative
selected prospective students have
more official President’s Advisory they wanted,” said Wrenn. choice, it could be a potential
been invited to vote, as they will be
Committee was created to follow These 20 ideas were then winner.
impacted by the outcome as well
through on the issue. The committee narrowed down even further to “That’s what took the longest,
should they choose to come here.
includes students, professors, and 10. “These were highly scrutinized” when we got it down to ten,” said
Voters are presented with five
staff, and “people who had been and this process occurred over two Wrenn. “We were trying to figure
different choices, accompanied by
working on this all along,” according meetings, said Wrenn. “We agonized out what would and wouldn’t work.”
explanations (see side box) – and also
to Wrenn. The Departments of over them. We didn’t want to take
have the choice of filling in a blank
Education, English, Athletics, and away something that was really contd. on next page
for an alternative mascot not listed.
Question
of the Week
What Did You Stuff
“BANANAS!”
in your turkey? “Ooo... That’s dirty”
-Rachel Johnson, -Dan Kersting,
Senior Senior
“Soylent green”
“Duck and a chicken” “We make dressing”
“Confetti”
-Stephanie Schrieber,
-James Franz, -Sam Timpa,
-Scott Crawford,
Junior
Senior Junior
Freshman

3. November 30, 2007 Volume 84, Issue 11
Mascot voting, cont.
Centenary
The options and descriptions, as seen on the ballot on the website. It also includes a blank for alternative
choices.
from page 3 Explorers : Exploration is the important value embodied by the mascot Explorers, connecting
Conglomerate
the mascot nicely to the college’s current branding statement, “Explore. Invent. Connect.” Explorers are fearless
adventurers and risk-takers, seeking new experiences through open-mindedness and independence. Picture a swash-
“We eliminated the Tornadoes, buckling pirate, a frontier-opening pioneer, a high-tech scientist or a high-flying astronaut — or any and all of these
Staff
incarnations. The Explorers mascot links athletics with academics by pointing back to our mission statement without
the Ironsides - there were too many being nerdy, silly, or campy; exploration is dignified. The Sioux City Explorers, a minor league baseball team, are
racial connotations with that. We often referred to simply as the X’s, an interesting interpretation worth considering. Currently, there is only one
NCAA Div. I school using the concept: the LaSalle University Explorers in Philadelphia.
Versha Sharma
finally got to the five based on what the Catahoulas : Catahoulas, also known as Catahoula Leopard Dogs, are the official state dogs of Louisiana.
group gave the most points to – but it Catahoulas are usually merle colored animals with eyes of mismatched color — they are described variously as “solid,”
Editor-in-Chief
“strong,” “independent,” “physical,” “highly intelligent,” and “very noisy.” In addition to the home state connection, the
wasn’t only based on our thoughts but aforementioned attributes positively articulate the Centenary experience and the Centenary community. Though the
vsharma@centenary.edu
what people said at the forum. We idea of a dog as mascot (e.g., University of Georgia) may not be unique, the introduction of the Catahoulas offers
many one-of-a-kind possibilities for portrayal (whether real and/or animated). The distinctiveness of the Centenary
always had the best interests of the Catahoulas will be translated much like the popular University of Southern Illinois Salukis. There are no current
Rhagen Russell
school and the students in mind this Catahoula mascot references among NCAA or professional athletic teams.
Mud Cats : Flathead catfish, nicknamed the Mud Cats, are a North American freshwater variety of
whole time, trying to think of what Copy Editor
fish found in rivers throughout the Missouri and Mississippi River basins, including the Red River. These fish can
ethical or racial issues [a mascot] grow to weigh up to 120 pounds and are typically found at the bottom of rivers, hence the “mud cat” moniker. There
rrussell@centenary.edu
is a connection — although slight — to the already established Shreveport/Bossier community through S/B’s popular
might have, if it’s overused already, if minor league hockey team, the Mud Bugs. In the college world, the Mud Cats offer a unique mascot opportunity.
it’s too generic, if it’s fierce enough.” So unique, in fact, that one can imagine a “celebrity” potential for the Mud Cats, much like the Banana Slugs of the
University of Santa Cruz. The only references found so far are the Mississippi Mudcats (an arena football team) and
Courtney Delaney
While people continue to the Carolina Mudcats (a minor league baseball team). Currently, there is no NCAA Div. I school with the Mud Cats
disagree over whether Fire Ants or as a mascot.
Layout Assistant
Fire Ants : Abundant in our geographical region, Fire Ants are small insects that really “pack a wallop”
Mud Cats are fiercer, the important
cdelaney@centenary.edu
when they sting. These fierce, tenacious creatures rely on teamwork to accomplish their tasks and pop up where you
step now is for all interested to vote. may least expect. Just as their size parallels the smallness of our own student population, and their characteristics
of perseverance and might model that of our Centenary community, the maroon color of their bodies will also help
“[The Gent] is hard to embody; it’s associate the Fire Ant with Centenary’s dominant school color (also maroon). The Centenary Fire Ants will be a
Aleks Kasztalska
hard to have at the games – we want versatile mascot: cute and funny at one moment and fighting strong the next. An additional benefit to this mascot
choice is the infrequent use of Fire Ants as college mascots. Currently, there is only one NCAA school, the University
Features Editor
something that the students can rally of South Carolina – Sumter Fire Ants in Sumter, South Carolina.
behind, like the LSU Tigers,” said Squirrels : Squirrels are small creatures that are “clever”, “persistent”, “expert climbers” and “thrive
akasztal@centenary.edu
in urban environments”. Their abundance on campus and around Shreveport seem to make them a natural mascot
Wrenn. possibility. General public opinion is favorable with such iconic popular images as Rocky from Rocky Bullwinkle,
The committee plans to have Sandy Cheeks from SpongeBob Squarepants, and Hammy from Over the Hedge. However, don’t let the cuddly images
fool you. Squirrels have incredibly sharp teeth and, through gnawing-induced power outages, have brought down
Todd Johnson
the additional mascot unveiled by the power grids of stock markets, universities, and even cities. Currently, only Mary Baldwin College in Staunton,
Opinions
A E Editor
Homecoming in February. Virginia, utilizes the Squirrels mascot.
trjohnso@centenary.edu
Michael Jarboe
Sports Editor
mjarboe@centenary.edu
The Gent mascot is integral to Centenary Emily DeLatin
Mindy McKoin
Photographers
Gentlemen: disapproval for these same terms after a particular basketball game
As an alumnus of our fine exists upon identical reasoning. Being as: very gentlemanly. Thus showing
Carly Carpenter
college, and a strong devotee to the that the college itself is far above that the school and its athletes had
Business Manager
history surrounding our institution reproach, and is equal and fair in the embraced the image of its mascot
I would like to express my sincere execution of its admissions criterion. in being proper in all aspects life,
disappointment in the decision to The mascot Gentlemen and Ladies beginning with their sportsmanship.
Copyright © 2007
create a supplementary mascot for applies uniformly for all alumni and Thus accomplishing the goal set forth
the school. matriculated students. by the school.
The Conglomerate is
Two aspects drive this Secondly, there is an interesting This rich heritage should not
contempt. First, the history of The origin attached to why we are The be tampered with in any manner. an independent student
College of Louisiana, and second the Centenary Gentlemen and Ladies. As matter of fact, I would hope that
publication, and does not reflect
history behind the implementation of The original nickname, Old all alumni and current students
the opinions of Centenary
the Gentlemen and Ladies mascot. Ironsides, was given to the college would esteem themselves to the very
College of Louisiana.
The College of Louisiana was by its competitors for reasons of meaning of our mascot. We should
founded for the purpose of providing the football team’s inclination for neither add nor take away from this
the education for southern planters significantly rough, unsportsmanlike astute and fitting decision made by Contact:
sons. In the southern tradition play upon the gridiron. The school our predecessors. I will always picture
paper@centenary.edu
these men were often referred to as seeking to distance itself from myself as a Gentleman of this fine
Phone: 318-869-5269
gentlemen. Southern traditions also this repute adopted the mascot of institution, The Centenary College of
reckon and represent its women Gentlemen. Louisiana.
as ladies. Thus it holds true to the After the assumption of the Respectfully yours, The Conglomerate
college’s roots that its mascot should Gentlemen mascot an announcer Patrick D. Fertitta
2911 Centenary Blvd.
be: Gentlemen and Ladies. referred to the sportsmanship of The Centenary College of
Shreveport, LA 71134
It is understood that a common the Centenary team and its students Louisiana, Class of 2003

4. November 30, 2007 Volume 84, Issue 11
Features
Frequently asked questions about mascot voting
taken from http://www.centenary.edu/mascot/faq
1. Why is Centenary College that spent many seasons undefeated, college stakeholders—the students,
adding a mascot to the school? with wins over teams such as Texas faculty, staff and alumni—have the 11. What was the process, how
The addition of the mascot AM University and LSU. Prior to opportunity to voice their opinions were mascot choices narrowed down
has been a student driven initiative. In the football program at the college, and be part of the voting process. That and how do they tie into the school’s
recent years, Centenary has examined Centenary was known as the is why they are the only ones, along history/ this area?
the role and impact of the mascot “Ironsides.” As a football powerhouse, with a select number of prospective In early September, a
through informal SGA student/ the college had a reputation as a students that will have the special President’s Advisory Committee
faculty forums, alumni surveys and fearsome and powerful team with a opportunity to vote for this new was formed, comprised of students,
questionnaires, the campus diversity penchant for playing rough. To clean mascot. staff, faculty and alumni so that all
climate assessment and so on. At up their image, they selected the interests were represented during
the end of last school year, a Mascot “Gentleman” nickname. 7. Who can vote for the the selection process. They analyzed,
Inquiry committee was formed by The school has had a mascot mascot? researched and discussed more than
SGA to discuss this ongoing issue. in the past and it was “The Gent.” Students, faculty, staff, alumni 40 different mascot ideas that had
The students have been asking for a The addition of a new mascot and selected prospective students been proposed over the years. The
mascot that inspires enthusiasm. We is consistent with the opinions process is consistent with Centenary’s
respect the student’s request for the expressed during the diversity 8. When will voting begin and emphasis on creative thinking
addition of a mascot for the school assessment we conducted in the how do you cast a vote? and solutions-based results. The
and want to create an identity that spring. The addition of a new mascot We are actually conducting on- committee narrowed the list down
embodies our history, tradition and will hopefully act as a unifying force line voting beginning November 26 at using such factors as perception of
uniqueness. across campus, not only in gender 12:01 a.m. until midnight December mascot idea, extension of campus
Students have clearly voiced and ethnicity, but also among groups 2. There has been a lot of buzz about identity, marketing of mascot,
a desire for a “fun” mascot, one that such as athletes, music students this, and we are anticipating a great uniqueness, etc. to FIVE that will be
can entertain during sports and and Greeks. While conscious of on-line turn out to select our new voted on.
campus events. the need to preserve tradition, the mascot. A link for the voting will be
commission is aware of the desire of available on the mascot page. 12. When will there be
2. What is the difference our Centenary community members Alumni who do not have Centenary items available with this
between a nickname and a mascot? for a mascot they can rally around and online access they may contact additional mascot?
The nickname is the literary support. In the interest of promoting the Office of Alumni Relations at A special $5 Maroon Mascot
identification of a team, school, or college pride and diversity, we want 318.869.5115 for assistance during Mystery T-shirt is available for
organization in the form of word, such to give our students, faculty, alumni the election period. purchase at the Centenary bookstore
as the “Ladies” and “Gents.” A mascot and community members a mascot the week of November 26th! Everyone
is a three-dimensional interpretation they could rally behind during our 9. What will happen after the is encouraged to purchase this and
of the nickname, usually a visual Division I athletic events. votes have been tallied? wear it to create a Wall of Maroon
depiction of the word. Once the votes have been during the Centenary basketball
(Technically, a nickname is 5. How did Centenary become tallied, the Advisory Committee double header at the CenturyTel
the title applied to a team. A mascot known as the Gents? will send a recommendation to the Center December 1st. Purchase of
is the symbol used by that team.) Centenary became known President of the College for approval. this T-shirt will entitle you to be
as the Gentlemen in the fall of 1921 among the first to pre-order Mascot
3. Will the nickname “Ladies” by then-Centenary President George 10. When will the mascot be Wear. Pre-orders will be taken until
and “Gents” change with the addition Sexton when he sat the football team revealed? December 17th via the Centenary
of the mascot? down before a game and told the We are looking forward to bookstore. For additional information
No. We are adding a mascot players, ...from now on, you will all announcing the winning mascot as about these items please contact the
to the school to complement the act like Gentlemen. In a previous soon as possible. There will be a lot bookstore at 318-869-5278.
nicknames “Ladies” and “Gents.” game, the football team had been in of behind-the-scenes work once the
a fight. The nickname has stuck ever mascot has been selected. Our goal 13. What if my question is not
4. Has the nickname been since, and it was natural to call the is to have all the votes tallied and a covered in this FAQ?
changed before or has there been a women’s teams the Ladies when the recommendation to the President by If you have another question
mascot in the past? school began women’s sports. mid-December. The official in person” about the mascot issue beyond what
The changing of the school’s introduction of the mascot will be is covered here, you can contact Rick
nickname is not without precedent. 6. Who will select the new during Centennial Celebration and DelaHaya, Director of Marketing and
Centenary College was once home mascot? Homecoming Week in mid February Communications, at 318-869-5073
to a nationally-ranked football team It is very important that the 2008. or rdelahaya@centenary.edu.

5. November 30, 2007 Volume 84, Issue 11
Centenary students give back to the community
Centenary students participate in the “Super Bowl, the residence life-based program in
”
which ceramic bowls were painted for an auction by the Food Bank. The Bank’s auction
will raise money for their organization. Photos by Mindy McKoin.
Sexton Hall organizes food
James “Buddy” Caldwell is elected
Louisiana State Attorney-General drive through November
Nadine Kaskas conviction rate over the past 28 Allison Cormier forgetfulness and apathy of the
Staff Writer years, and he holds the highest per Centenary community, McKoin, in
Staff Writer
capita collection rate for back child conjunction with the Food Bank,
support in the State. Caldwell’s hosted the “Super Bowl,” which was
According to a 2001 United
November 17 marked the
record enabled him to collect a a residence life-based program that
States Department of Agriculture
date for the general election that
multitude of endorsements from provided ceramic bowls for students
report, thirty-three million people in
determined the races undecided by
such organizations as the Louisiana to paint.
the United States don’t have access
the October 20 primary election.
Federation of Teachers, the Louisiana The bowls will later be auctioned
to enough food to meet their basic
The runoff races were for Attorney
Sheriff ’s Association, and the Alliance off by the Food Bank of Northwest
needs. Of these thirty-three million
General and for the Louisiana
for Good Government. Louisiana in order to raise money for
people, twelve million are children
State Board of Elementary and
It was unsurprising that this their organization. “The bowls gave
and two and a half million are elderly.
Secondary Education (BESE).
race was a landslide runoff election- creative students a chance to use
The 2001 Hunger Study also noted
Democrat James D. “Buddy”
-Caldwell received 67% of the vote their creativity and to give back to the
that one in four households served
Caldwell was elected as Attorney
compared to Republican Royal community. It also made them aware
by the America’s Second Harvest
General, a four-year term that will
Alexander, who received 33%. of the food drive,” said McKoin.
network did not eat for an entire day
start January 14.
As Attorney General, Caldwell’s Students lacking creative talent
because they could not afford it.
Caldwell, a veteran district
staff of over 500 employees will can also participate in the food
Frustrated by these startling
attorney with almost 30 years of
represent state agencies and the public drive by donating non-perishable
statistics, Mindy McKoin, a Sexton
experience, was elected to the
at large in all civil matters. In addition food goods. Foods that are in a
Hall Resident Assistant, began
Board of Directors of the Louisiana
to handling criminal appeals, he will high demand at the Food Bank of
organizing a food drive for the Food
District Attorney’s Association in
also have the ability to investigate, Northwest Louisiana include peanut
Bank of Northwest Louisiana.
1983, and served on that board an
order subpoenas, and make arrests. butter, hearty soups, canned meats,
“We have tried to do several
unprecedented 13 years in a row until
The winner for District 5 of crackers, instant oatmeal, and rice.
things with fundraising, but it doesn’t
1996. He is the only known official in
the BESE was Democrat Keith Guice, Foods can be donated in
go over very well with the Centenary
the state of Louisiana to have been
who in a close race won 52% of the donation boxes located outside of the
community. People hear about it and
invited to speak on relevant matters
vote compared to Republican Ruth doors of all resident assistants’ rooms.
want to do it but forget or can’t fit it
to justices of the peace and constables
Ulrich, who received 48%. The food drive ends on November 30,
into their schedules,” said McKoin.
for 20 years in a row.
2007.
In order to combat the
Caldwell has achieved a 99%

6. November 30, 2007 Volume 84, Issue 11
New Facebook features raise privacy issues
To make sure that you cannot be
found through this feature, you have
to go into your settings and manually
Karyn Gehrls Andrew Cuomo has gone so far as to change the search function. Then the
subpoena the social networking site person searching will have to have an
Staff Writer
and investigate its safety and privacy account to see full results, but they
measures. will be able to view your profile if it is
Since Facebook opened
Still, the question remains, not set to private or friends only.
up its site to non-college
should the personal profiles on the It does open up doors to
networks, many issues have
site remain private or not? unwanted people finding you on
arisen about its privacy
Many people believe that, since Facebook, who can simply set up
policy.
Facebook has opened its doors to their own accounts (since it is no
According to this policy,
all people with an email address, longer just college student-friendly)
Facebook was built to “make
anyone can become a member now, and watch your every move.
it easy to share information
thus turning this site into another Concern still surrounds the
with your friends and people
MySpace. wording of the privacy policy on
around you”; the creators
According to Michael Hussey, Facebook. It is said to be a “safe”
also promise that the default
founder and CEO of PeekYou.com, social networking site where people
privacy settings would
if Facebook keeps heading in this can talk about private things without
limit the information that
direction, it is likely that more fake someone else interfering. With all of
is displayed on your profile
profiles will pop up and litter the these new features and changes, it is
to those persons in your
bandwidth with spam. no wonder some people are calling
network.
A new feature with Facebook is the website “Stalkbook” (as opposed
The two core principles
its outside search capability. A person to “Stalkerspace” for MySpace).
of said privacy are that “you
can look up your name without having Still, the question lingers: is
should have control over
to have an account to find you on this Facebook really safe, or is it becoming
your personal information
site, which can lead to many stalker- another MySpace, filled with spam
and you should have access to
like problems that no one wants to and the urge to add as many friends
the information others want to share.”
Photo by Emily DeLatin.
have to deal with. as possible?
New York State Attorney General
Centenary holds forum on understanding global climate change
Nadine Kaskas problem.
Staff Writer Dr. Hamming also discussed
Advice from Allison: On party-going,
what the public can do about this
problem.
roommates, and online romance
The Centenary Environmental
Other topics that were covered
Association hosted a forum entitled
include Al Gore’s documentary, “An
“When Science and Politics Collide:
Inconvenient Truth,” and President Allison Cormier not left us.
Understanding Global Climate
Bush’s decision to support E85 Staff Writer The only difference is that now
Change” on Thursday, November 15.
initiatives rather than hybrid engine we can drive our own vehicles and
ACS faculty fellow Dr. Jeanne
technologies in the automotive The opinions and ideas expressed you might have your own apartment
Hamming and ACS Environmental
industry. Al Gore recently won a by this article do not in any way reflect to go back to. Asking guys to parties
Interns Sarah Eich and Dan Kersting
Nobel Prize for his work in raising those of Centenary College, the has not gotten any easier, however.
spoke to the community based on
international awareness about Conglomerate, or the writer herself. The best way to get a guy to
Sarah Eich’s recent attendance of
environmental problems. In fact, these ideas probably don’t agree to go to a party with you is to
an international summit on Global
Dan Kersting concluded express any intelligently informed find someone who doesn’t get a whole
Climate Change sponsored by
by talking about what the opinions anyway. lot of action. Mickle Hall is the best
ATHGO International.
community can do to get involved. place to find them.
ATHGO (Alliance Toward
The Centenary Environmental Dear Allison, It doesn’t matter if they’re
Harnessing Global Opportunities)
Association holds meetings every I can’t find a date to my sorority’s unattractive. At least you won’t be
is a non-profit organization that is a
Tuesday at 5 p.m. in the Reading upcoming theme party. I have a lot of rejected. If anyone asks about your
member of the United Nations Global
Room on the 3rd floor of Jackson guy friends, but they’re either busy choice of date, just tell them that he
Compact. At the summit, held in New
Hall. that weekend or someone else is has a lot of money.
York City, Eich had the opportunity
They plan speaking engagements already taking them.
to hear UN representatives from
with environmental themes and Earth What’s the best way to find guys Dear Allison,
several nations discuss what they are
Day events. to take to parties? My girlfriend and I don’t get a lot
doing to mitigate global warming.
The CEA also raises money -Single Senior of alone time together. My roommate
At the forum, Eich offered an overview
to bring solar energy to campus, never leaves the room and we don’t
of her experience. After that, Dr.
and encourages recycling. For more Dear Single, have anywhere to have private time.
Hamming talked about some issues
information, please contact Dr. Sometimes Centenary College What should I do?
related to global climate change and
Hamming of the English Department can seem a bit like high school. The -Frustrated Freshman
how politics and science are often
at jhamming@centenary.edu. days of asking boys to dances have contd. on next page
at odds regarding the severity of the

7. November 30, 2007 Volume 84, Issue 11
Sex and the Centenary: Cohabitation after college (part one)
Southern Elle So, I chatted with some friends Centenary’s dorms don’t make house and the transportation to get there?
about life as a cohabiting couple, and visits. How will you survive? Do you Do you have a couch to sleep on in
Staff Writer
came up with some things to think clean your boyfriend’s dorm room case you want a separate bed for a
about (and TALK ABOUT!) before every time you stop by? If so, living night? Trust me, you don’t want to
As several of my friends prepare
cosigning a lease. You can’t avoid together could be a perpetuation of feel like you’re living in a prison cell.
for life after college, discussions of
every struggle and fight – but it’s his leaving dirty dishes everywhere for And while we’re on the subject
girlfriends, boyfriends, and fiancées
worth taking a break from the dream you to pick up. Does your boyfriend of “Space”… it’s a good time to talk
inevitably arise. It seems like almost
before reality slaps you in the face. steer clear of your bed because about those wonderful binding
all of them are planning to live
Finances. If you thought the sheets haven’t been washed in contracts known as “leases.” Just like
with their significant others after
budgeting to buy Christmas gifts was months? He might not appreciate relationships, getting into a lease is
graduation (or even before). Having
difficult, try juggling rent, utilities, your dirty clothes on the bedroom simple… and getting out of one early
been there, done that, and gotten
groceries, and all the stuff you forget floor when he’s living there, too. Who can be more messy than the car your
my t-shirt stolen by my girlfriend
you need. Start with the big stuff. will handle cleaning the kitchen and girlfriend wrecked when you dumped
who “borrows” my clothes, I almost
How much can you afford to spend the bathroom? Who will do laundry her via text message. My situation
want to warn them. I too dreamed
on bills per month? Will you split (especially if you are stuck watching worked out well; my roommate and
about falling asleep with my lover
rent and utilities equally or will the it turn at the laundromat for two I co-signed, so my girlfriend can get
every night, choosing and decorating
person who makes more pay more of hours)? Does your partner expect out if we ever have problems. Our
a home together, and occasionally
the share? Will you co-sign a lease? you will take care of the house? lease also allows us to bail early, too,
screwing on the dining room table
Will you get a joint bank account? Does this sound like it could as long as we give a month’s written
in the middle of the afternoon. But
Who will pay for groceries and other be familiar: Her: “He doesn’t do notice and forego the deposit. But
in all honesty, I had no clue what the
items like shampoo, toilet paper, and any housework, so I’m going to be most leases aren’t as flexible as mine.
hell I was in for. I missed the “You’re
dish soap? If one of you loses a job or passive aggressive and just pout until You need to consider… do you want a
In Too Deep and About to Drown”
changes jobs, how will you handle the he does more” and Him: “Why is six-month or a twelve-month lease?
warning sign. My dreams definitely
change? If you are in graduate school, she so pushy? She is always whining If you break up, can you get out? Will
didn’t include cleaning a litter box,
how much will you take out in loans about housework, and I don’t want vacating the lease hurt your credit
arguing over who would clean toilets
to cover your living expenses? What to be around her!” You get it. Don’t rating or leave a permanent mark
and dishes, or sexual frustration.
if you both are in school? Have you perpetuate the worst heterosexual on your credit? Are the two of you
My girlfriend and I were too
thought about taking on a roommate stereotype in history. signing for something even more
caught up with all the fun, exciting
to lower costs? How does your cost Space. When my girlfriend and permanent, like a car note, a house
aspects of living together that we
of living compare to your partner’s I first mentioned cohabitation, we note, a cell phone contract, or other
never discussed all the nasty, difficult
– do you spend money easily, while agreed we needed two bedrooms. big ticket items like furniture? What
parts. Nights and weekends at each
your partner saves every penny? How When we need to just chill, alone, happens if you break up?
other’s respective living quarters
will that affect your budget and bills? with two bedrooms we could each …and that’s only the beginning.
never prepared me for this. The
Who will pay startup costs – like close a door and have some space. Next article, I’ll delve into two
first two months were rough. We hit
buying furniture, buying dishes, Well… money and circumstances more cohabitation issues: Life After
some hellish spots. But after a lot of
paying utility deposits, etc.? Are you destroyed that wonderful plan. We Sex (or…how to handle sex-less
struggling (and some crash-course
taking on your car insurance, health are still struggling to deal with the one cohabitation) and Cohabitation
learning), life sharing an apartment
insurance, cell phone bill, and rent bedroom situation; at least having Before Marriage. Because just when
(and a bed, a room, a cat, a closet,
at the same time? If you can’t pay two living rooms helps. When you you thought college life was difficult,
and too much crap) has gotten a lot
everything, what goes first? How can start shopping for a place, how big it turns out there’s so much your
easier. Sure, we still fight sometimes,
you cut corners to budget? should it be? Will you have a mental degree didn’t begin to prepare you
but we’ve gotten over slamming doors
Housework. Face it: You breakdown living in a studio? What for…
and screaming… and moved toward
probably don’t have the cash to about a one bedroom? Will you share
painting ornaments and picking out a
pay someone else to do it, and a car? When you need a break from
tree together (I know – you could gag
the wonderful housekeepers from coupledom, do you have a place to go
on the cuteness factor).
Advice from Allison, cont. from page 6 - pesky roommates and romance
Dear Frustrated, the gazebo and the laundry room in But, if you’re afraid of losing
Those pesky roommates always James are great places to spend alone Dear Infidelity, your real girlfriend when she finds
seem to get in the way. Why must they time. Cheating on your girlfriend on out about the online girl, remember
always get in the way of our lives? the Internet is completely different that it’s quite difficult to make out
Sometimes in these situations Dear Allison, from cheating on her in real life. I with a computer.
you must get a bit creative with where I’m in a relationship with a girl mean, how far can you possibly go
you and your girlfriend spend alone right now but I met someone else with emoticons? Do you have a problem and
time. online. If I tell this girl that I have a If the online girl is fine with the need Allison’s help? Send your issues
girlfriend and she is okay with it, does fact that you have a real-life girlfriend, to Campus Box 202 or e-mail Allison
Maybe drive out to the Duck that make it any more acceptable if then it can’t possibly be unacceptable. at acormier@centenary.edu.
Pond one afternoon for a nice picnic. we “both know” and keep it a secret? What your girlfriend doesn’t know
If you need even more privacy, I hear - Internet Infidelity can’t hurt her.

8. November 30, 2007 Volume 84, Issue 11
Meet Laëtitia Caloone, a Master’s-seeking student of business
from Lille, France
tourism for business Congo: What’s your opinion of Congo: If your life were a
management. Centenary so far? musical, what would be your theme
Congo: How long are Laëtitia: It’s good, it’s really song?
you staying at Centenary? different from my country. I like this Laëtitia: A song from “Moulin
Laëtitia: I’m staying idea of campus, it’s like a little world Rouge, called “One Day I’ll Fly
here for a year. in a big city. But I don’t like the fact Away.”
Congo: What do you that we have to spend our evenings Congo: Do you have any tips
like the most and the least studying. We don’t in France. We for students who are going to study
about living in France? only have to study for finals. in France?
Laëtitia: I think I like Congo: What’s your favorite Laëtitia: You just have to be
everything. I mean, we can American food? open-minded because it’s very
drink, we can go out… I guess Laëtitia: I didn’t have an different there. And just to enjoy it
I don’t like the weather in the opportunity to try good American because it will be really fun for you.
north. But sometimes I like food yet, so I can’t say. I’ve only eaten You will not spend all your time
it. sometimes I miss it when at the caf and at Chinese restaurants. in books, but you will have a lot of
I’m here because I’ve lived in I think I like cookies and brownies, things to do. And don’t go out too
the north all of my life. though. late! Do as much as you can do while
Congo: Have you been Congo: What surprised you you’re there.
abroad before? the most about the United States? Congo: Would you like to add
Laëtitia: I was lucky Laëtitia: Well, we see the United anything at the end?
because I traveled a lot with States in movies and everything, so I Laëtitia: Yes. I want to thank April
my family. Also, through wasn’t really surprised. I expected it Valentine [Director of Intercultural
Aleks Kasztalska a program at my school, I to be like that. Affairs] because she helped me a lot
Features Editor studied for two weeks in England and Congo: What do you like to do when I arrived here and had a lot
in the Czech Republic. So, I traveled in your spare time? of problems. Everything was well-
Conglomerate: Hi, could you a lot. Laëtitia: I like to play volleyball, organized in the International Office
introduce yourself to the other Congo: Why did you choose to swim, just to chill with my friends. when we all arrived. It’s not easy
students? Centenary? And I like to go to the center of Lille, for us to arrive here and not know
Laëtitia: My name is Laëtitia Laëtitia: I didn’t (she laughs). where all the shops and cool places anybody – I didn’t know the other
Caloone and I’m French. I’m from I said I wanted to go to the United are. You can go there for four hours French girl and it was a new place for
Lille in the north of France. I’m 21. States and to teach French at the same and you will find something to do the me. Also, you don’t have your family
Congo: That’s a good age to be time, and there are maybe four places whole time. and I had some difficulties during the
in the United States. you can go in the United States where Congo: What’s your favorite first weeks. So, thank you for helping
Laëtitia: Yes! I’m glad to be 21. you can teach French. My advisor word in English? me. I didn’t expect American people
Congo: What’s your major? said, “Well, you can go to Louisiana,” Laëtitia: I like to say “it sucks!” to do all of that.
Laëtitia: I just graduated in May, and I was happy because I wanted to and “crap!” I like when Eli [her
so I have my “license,” and now I will travel to Louisiana. So, I said, “Yes, roommate] says that. Photo by Mindy McKoin.
begin my Master’s of international why not.”
The Conglomerate presents a European’s first impressions of Shreveport
moment. In a few minutes I would be and security at Memphis, but I was beer – the only beer in the place
Jonathan Hedley
walking in Memphis. I’m gonna go to soon cheered up when I managed that didn’t have ‘light’ in the name (I
Contributing Writer
diners, chew tobacco, eat twinkies, to befriend just about everyone like full fat beers, I’m European) and
do a drive-by (whatever that is); I’m sitting within a 3 metre radius on my got to spend my first crispy dollars.
So I finally touched down in
gonna say ‘Get off of your horse and connecting flight to Shreve. When the Shopping the next day in a shop the
Shreveport Louisiana last Friday
fight like a man’ and I just have to buy air-hostess asked me to say ‘tomato’ size of some towns in Italy was an
night after a 24-hour journey from
one of those t-shirts that say ‘F**k I finally felt welcome. (‘Aw aah just experience, as was getting asked for
Rome covering 7000 miles, three
you, I’m from Texas’. What would love yo accent – don’t yall just love ID twice in 12 hours (I’m 28!), once
separate flights and two awful movies,
the land that produced John Wayne, his accent!’) just to get into a Thrifty store! But my
in desperate need of a shower, a bite
Elvis and Britney Spears hold for me? So I finally got my cigarette most touristy moments have been
to eat, and a nice cold beer.
I briefly thought of John Lennon and after waiting for my luggage out in in the passenger seat of cars that are
As my second of three planes
wondered what the probability was of the public area of Shreve Airport bigger than my old bedroom, seeing
began its descent into Memphis and
getting shot, but then put the thought where I saw a guy who looked just the Circle K (a-la Bill and Ted) and
I gazed down upon America for the
out of my head. like the Nutty Professor in that Eddie Taco Bell (Demolition Man), and
first time in my life, the song ‘Kids
I have to admit, my initial Murphy movie. Turned out he was sitting in a booth by the window in a
of America’ by Kim Wilde came
excitement at touching down on the mayor. diner eating a muffaletta (every movie
through the headphones and I felt a
American soil was all but vanquished I went to a chain restaurant that that’s ever been made).
smile involuntarily spreading across
by the experience of immigration night where I tried pumpkin spice cont. on next page
my face. It was a real Hollywood

9. November 30, 2007 Volume 84, Issue 11
British Studies at Oxford: a fun mix of learning and travel
Aleks Kasztalska students can choose from seminars summers with British Studies, has first consult with Ms. Valentine to see
such as “Mind the Gap! Satire told the Conglomerate in an e-mail which seminars can count as module
Features Editor
in Eighteenth-Century Britain,” interview that while she was at St. credits.
“British Responses to the American John’s College, her group “only had Although Ms. Valentine has
If you’re trying to figure out
and French Revolutions,” and class four days a week, so [they] could set a suggested campus application
what to do this summer, think about
“Frankenstein Meets Snow White: travel on the weekends.” deadline for Nov. 15, the program
spending a month in Britain!
Cross-currents in British and German The weekend excursions were, itself has no formal deadline and
“British Studies At Oxford”
Romanticism.” in fact, one the her favorite parts of students who are interested are still
is a summer study abroad program
A student may also apply to the whole experience. She not only welcome to apply.
organized through Associated
take an additional course, though got to see Britain, but also went to It must be pointed out, however,
Colleges of the South, of which
he or she must be prepared to pay Belgium in her free time and even that the spots fill up rather quickly,
Centenary is a member. It is held in
extra for these hours. The cost of the visited some filming locations of the so it is strongly recommended that
St. John’s College, which the brochure
program is $7,450, which includes “Harry Potter” movies. those interested in the program see
calls “one of the most beautiful and
room and board, tuition and a Overall, Ms. McDonald Ms. Valentine as soon as possible.
distinguished of Oxford University’s
number of excursions, as well as a believes the Oxford program to be “a Ms. McDonald urges all
constituent colleges.”
health insurance plan. wonderful way to mix studying with students to look into “British Studies
This aim of this summer course
Throughout the program, each traveling.” At Oxford,” which she calls “one of
is “to create each year a rich and
of the seminars meets for a total Centenary’s Director of [her] favorite college experiences.”
richly integrated program of high
of 18 hours, and is accompanied Intercultural Affairs, April Valentine, She especially recommends it to
academic value, full of excitement
by “study excursions,” as well as is encouraging anyone interested in students who, like her, “[want] to
and stimulation, as well as being
workshops, lectures, recitals and “British Studies At Oxford” to stop study abroad,” but do not want to
enjoyable and utterly memorable.”
concerts. Students work in groups of by her office and talk to her about it “be away from Centenary for a whole
“British Studies At Oxford,” held
about 12, but the program brochure (though you might want to schedule semester.”
from June 29 until August 5, is based
explains that “teaching and learning an appointment first). To contact April Valentine for
on two seminars that are picked by
are carried out continuously,” such as She points out that “there is further information, e-mail her at
the student and that relate to the
“over meals, on social occasions, on a scholarship available” and that “it avalenti@centenary.edu or stop by
main theme.
the excursions and study visits.” is possible for a student to receive the Intercultural Affairs Office (2910
This year’s subject is “Britain
Margaret McDonald, Centenary module credit.” In order for this to Building, across the street from Main
in the Ages of Enlightenment,
student who spent one of her happen, however, the student must Admissions).
Revolution, and Romanticism,” so
European impressions top: Jessica Martin writes letters as part of the Up
‘Til Dawn effort.
of Shreveport, cont. below: Several other Centenary students
from pg. 8 participated as well in order to raise money for St.
Jude’s Research Hospital.
One thing that impresses me
Photos by Mindy McKoin.
very much is all the things that go
on at Centenary College – the paper,
Nadine Kaskas
the radio station, safe sex week, all
Staff Writer
the different student-run bodies, the
extra curricular activities – nothing
Up ‘Til Dawn hosted a letter writing
like that exists where I went to school,
campaign Friday, November 9th, in
there was no pride in the school you
order to benefit St. Jude’s Hospital.
went to, you just did your lessons
Teams of up to six people
then left, that was it, and you got
participated by bringing 50 addresses
out as quick as possible. The Honour
to send the letters to. Door prizes
Council – haha! Haven’t you guys
such as a video iPod were given away.
ever heard of corruption? Students
Up ‘Til Dawn is a fundraising program
checking on other students cheating,
that supports St. Jude’s Research
next you’ll have prisoners working as
Hospital. The money they raise helps
prison guards! These concepts are all
with patient treatment.
but impossible to imagine in Europe.
St. Jude’s is the first institution
I sometimes imagine America
founded solely for conducting clinical
as a young blond Adonis, idealistic,
research for childhood diseases. The
flexing his bronzed muscles in the
hospital’s daily operating costs of
Californian sun to impress the chicks
over $1 million is primarily funded
(and bully the skinny kids) while the
through public contributions.
pot bellied, slightly grey haired old
For more information about this
men of Europe look on.
organization, please contact Mary
More America coming up soon
Walter at mwalter@centenary.edu.
- watch this space!

10. 10
November 30, 2007 Volume 84, Issue 11
Google teams up with MySpace
A
to compete with Facebook
Nadine Kaskas
Staff Writer
Google Inc. has teamed up with Myspace to form a social
networking site that could rival Facebook’s rapid growth. “Google is
E
trying to capture the hearts and minds of developers who have been
smitten with the Facebook platform since the summer,” said Gartner
analyst Ray Valdes of the deal’s expected impact to Facebook.
The deal puts Google in partnership with the largest social
networking service. Myspace had more than twice the number of
unique visitors in September compared with Facebook, though
Facebook’s growth rate has been much higher.
The news comes just a week after Facebook landed a $240
million investment from Microsoft Corp., in a deal that valued the
overall company at around $15 billion. Rumors had Google also
making an attempt to invest in Facebook, though the company never
confirmed it. The Google/Myspace networking site, the OpenSocial
consortium, will also include other network providers, including
Friendster, LinkedIn, and Plaxo.
Winter movie preview: Heroes from Beowulf to Denzel
Todd Johnson from the Coen Brothers (“O Brother, and the cast is great, so naturally I’m Depp - ‘nuff said. Plus, the trailers
A E Editor Where Art Thou?” and “Fargo”) and pumped. look absolutely amazing, and the
already it is receiving buzz that it will “I Am Legend” is Will Smith’s film promises lots of dark humor and
be a major Oscar contender. Plus, the next big action movie. The trailers some good music. This is one of my
Originally, this was supposed
movie is supposed to have the greatest have been looking really cool, so I am most anticipated movies, which is
to be an article about awards season,
and scariest villain since Hannibal a little excited about this one. Based kind of funny since I don’t usually like
but since most of us won’t have the
Lector. “No Country for Old Men” on the book by Richard Matheson (the musicals.
opportunity to see any of the award-
opened on November 21. guy who inspired Stephen King), this There is also “The Great
worthy movies until late January or
November 21 also saw the movie is about a man who somehow Debaters,” which is the Denzel
early February, I decided to change it
opening of “The Mist.” Filmed here survives a plague which turns Washington movie that was filmed
into an article about some upcoming
locally, we have a story written everyone on Earth into vampires. around the area. The story sounds
movies that deserve your attention.
by Stephen King and directed by Plus, the movie is more than likely good and Washington has never
*Note: These are all movies
Frank Darabont (“The Shawshank going to have a trailer for “The Dark made a bad movie (at least not that
that I am dying to see, so this may
Redemption”). It is about a mist that Knight” attached, so that should be I am aware of ), so I will check it out
not reflect your list of anticipated
covers a town and forces people to more than enough incentive to see it. when it is released on December 28.
releases.
hide in a grocery store while monsters In limited release, there will also Also on December 28, but in
hiding in the mist try to attack them. be “Juno,” which is getting awesome limited release, sadly, is “There Will
November:
Apparently this movie is supposed to reviews and looks to be really funny, Be Blood.” The buzz on this movie is
In this month, we have several
be scary as hell, with one of the most and “Youth Without Youth,” which is astronomical, with some even calling
high-profile movies that look to be
disturbing endings in a long time. the first film by Francis Ford Coppola it a movie that will be listed with
very entertaining. Last week the
Definitely worth being excited about. (The Godfather trilogy) in over ten “Citizen Kane,” “Casablanca,” and
animated version of “Beowulf ” was
years. “The Godfather” within a few years.
released. I know that the trailers have
December: The last week of December has That is some powerful buzz, but it
been a little lackluster and very similar
To let my geek side out for some movies that I will definitely piques my interest. Plus, the trailer
to the “300” trailers that came out a
a minute, we have “The Golden see. First is “National Treasure: Book ain’t too bad either.
year ago, but the word on this movie
Compass” coming out on December of Secrets.” I know that some of you Anyway, these are the movies
is that it is extremely entertaining and
7. I loved the book series “His Dark just rolled your eyes, but I actually that have me excited, which probably
proves that animation can be badass.
Materials” and this looks like it might enjoyed the first one and the second means that you should be excited
If you have the chance to see this in
actually be a good adaptation of the one looks to be just as much fun. for them too. Check them out
IMAX 3-D, do so.
series, though I have heard that some However, the real surprise for when they’re released before next
Another movie that had me
of the more controversial elements me is “Sweeney Todd: The Demon semester.
itching with excitement is “No
have been lessened in the movie. Barber of Fleet Street.” Why do you
Country for Old Men.” This movie is
Anyway, the trailers look amazing ask? It is Tim Burton and Johnny