1. The
Conglomerate
February 1, 2008 Centenary College of Louisiana’s Weekly Independent Press Volume 84, Issue 16
What’s Happening
Centenary celebrates Mardi Gras Vote early for
with Highland area community presidential
Amanda Russell preferences
Staff Writer Versha Sharma
Editor-in-Chief
You know it’s that special time
of year when bakeries across the Early voting for the Louisiana
state begin producing those gold, presidential preference primary
green, and purple king cakes. Texas started on January 26 and will
residents attending Centenary continue through this Saturday,
sometimes complain about the early February 2.
break and wonder what all the fuss The purpose of the primary
is about, but those of us native to is for Louisiana voters to indicate
Louisiana know that it is simply who they would like to see win the
Carnival time. nominations of the Republican and
The Carnival season Democratic parties (and ultimately,
begins twelve days after Christmas who will take the White House in
and ends on Mardi Gras, the day parade,
November). The election is closed,
before Ash Wednesday. Widely which will
which means only voters registered
considered to be the most important begin at 2 p.m. on
to those parties can participate, and
party in the United States, Mardi February 3, 2008. The krewe
they can only vote for candidates
Gras or “Fat Tuesday” celebrations should pass by Centenary between
within their own parties.
also occur in Italy and Brazil. The 3 and 3:30 p.m. Centenary College
Parish Registrar of Voters offices
Mardi Gras season is marked with of Louisiana will be represented by
from 12 to 4 p.m. This are open all across the state from 8:30
celebration, parades, krewe balls, a float in the Highland Parade. If
program has been a well- a.m. to 4:30 p.m. every day, including
and as much debauchery as can be fit any student, faculty, staff, or alum is
received event in past years. If you Saturday, for those who would like
into one’s schedule before the Lenten interested in riding on the float, spots
have any further questions, contact to vote. Those interested only need
season begins. may be reserved for $40 a person
Carla E. Alsandor at calsando@ bring their state driver’s license,
Although it is far from (which includes a t-shirt and parade
centenary.edu or call (318) 869-5008. a state special ID, or some other
Louisiana’s Mardi Gras epicenter throws). Those interested should
generally recognized picture ID.
in New Orleans, Shreveport has contact alumni@centenary.edu for
INSIDE
All voters may vote early
developed a vibrant Carnival tradition further details.
without any specified reason.
that serves the entertainment as According to Carla E. Alsandor,
For those at Centenary who
well as economic needs of North Director of Alumni Relations, the
are unable to travel home, the last
Louisiana residents. The Shreveport Centenary Alumni Association will What is the day to request a mail ballot from
Times reports that according to a also host its annual Family Zone
Schwab-o-meter? the Registrar of Voters is Tuesday,
study done by the Shreveport-Bossier program on Jones-Rice Field. The
February 5. The deadline for the
Convention and Tourist Bureaus Family Zone provides area residents Find out on page 3 office to receive that ballot back is
and the LSU Shreveport Center for and members of the Centenary
Friday, February 8.
Business and Economic Research, Community with a family-friendly
SGA spends big bucks The actual primary is scheduled
Mardi Gras festivities in Northwest environment in order to better enjoy
for Saturday, February 9.
Louisiana generate annual revenue watching the parade. Centenary will on Homecoming, The Caddo Parish Registrar
of over $32 million dollars. With 30 provide free hotdogs, chips, and page 5 of Voters office is located at 525
krewes in the Northwest Louisiana drinks to those in attendance.
Marshall Street (across from the
region, the fun seems to never stop. The Centenary Alumni
Caddo Courthouse), Suite 103. The
Naturally, Centenary is ready to get Association encourages those Big movie stars film in phone number is (318) 226-6891.
in on the Carnival fun. planning to attend to bring lawn Shreveport, read more For more information on registering
As an important part of chairs, picnic gear, and outdoor games
on page 14 and voting how-to, please visit www.
the Highland Area Community, and equipment to further enhance
sos.louisiana.gov or www.geauxvote.
Centenary sits along the parade route their parade-watching experience.
com.
of the Krewe of Highland Mardi Gras The Family Zone program will run

2. February 1, 2008 Volume 84, Issue 16
Letter from the editor: Vote vote vote vote vote vote
Versha Sharma Voters office is and vote. task requires. time here, and how much; it’s about
Editor-in-Chief For those of you who just can’t Don’t let that fool you, however; whether or not you can get and keep
wait, early voting is taking place until it might not require much, but it a decent-paying job after getting your
I’ve heard enough people this Saturday, February 2, from 8:30 counts for a lot. In today’s jaded age, glorious Centenary degree, and then
complaining about the top a.m. to 4:30 p.m. You don’t even need where we look to the debacle that it’s about tax relief; it’s about what will
presidential candidates to know that a valid reason to do it - just your was the 2000 election and wonder happen next time a natural disaster
this campus has an opinion. I just driver’s license! how much our vote really counts, the devastates one of our state’s most
have one request (well, other than For those of you who don’t know, presidential primary is something beloved cities. Who the President is
write in to the paper and tell us how I’m a Political Science major and a we can control. Whoever comes matters – his or her decisions echo
you really feel): vote. news junkie. I know my editorship out strongest at the end of these around the world, nation, state, and
On Super Tuesday, February of this newspaper has led to the primaries and caucuses will likely get this lil’ ole town, from the broadest
5, when a grand total of 22 states Conglomerate covering more politics the nominations of the Republican policy on spreading democracy in the
will head to the polls to vote for than it has in the past (I’m proud and Democratic parties – and in world to the littlest detail about how
who they want to represent their of it, but trust me, I am aware that the American political system, one much we pay for a full tank of gas.
party, Louisiana will be partying some of you find this boring, and for of those two people will be elected More than that, this looks to
– in true state style, it’s Mardi Gras. that I apologize and hope you enjoy President in November. (Sorry, Ralph be an election year when America
Super Duper Tuesday can have New each week’s Sudoku) – but this is Nader.) will make history – electing the
York and California; there’s no way something that I do really care about On college campuses first Mormon, female, or African-
real Louisianans (also known as and something that I really want every everywhere, Centenary included, American President all look like
Loozeaners) would get up to vote on member of the Centenary community there is a divide between the distinct possibilities, something I
Fat Tuesday. (There may be no way to do. It is arguably the most effective politically impassioned and the myself thought was a bit far-fetched
real Louisianans could get up to vote way to tell the government what’s on completely apathetic – but that can at this time last year. But who cares
– hangovers and all.) your mind – by voting for McCain, change. Politics affect everyone. It’s about what history books will say in
Luckily, our government is Romney, Huckabee, Clinton, Obama, not just about foreign policy and the future, or about fulfilling your
smarter than they sometimes appear, or none of the above – and all it takes abstract concepts of freedom and civic duty, or representing the 18-24
and the state presidential primary is a short car ride to the registrar, liberty: it’s about whether or not your group well on the national stage? (We
isn’t until Saturday, February 9. That’s about two minutes inside, and a short sibling or significant other may be had pretty pitiful turnout in the 2004
plenty of time to sort out your head, car ride back. We probably expend sent over to Iraq in a troop surge; it’s election.) Do it for yourself and for
Centenarians – so make sure you more energy trying to stay awake in about what kinds of scholarships and how it affects your life. Vote.
know where your parish Registrar of class on a daily basis than this small loans are available to you during your
Question
of the Week
What would you do for
“Drop it like it’s hot.” “Rob the float.”
beads?? -Stacey Stokes, -Ashley Sholar,
Senior Senior
“Pretend I’m from Duke.” “Dirty, sexy sex.” “Kill a small child.” “Stand there.”
-Amos Sit, -Jessica Cosenza, -Alysha Wallace, -Ms. Kristy Jackson,
Junior Junior Junior Assistant Director of
Residence Life

3. February 1, 2008 Volume 84, Issue 16
Features Centenary
Conglomerate
Staff
Versha Sharma
Centenary faculty and staff bond with Editor-in-Chief
vsharma@centenary.edu
nature (literally) Courtney Delaney
Layout Editor
Centenary Environmental Association and Chemistry Club lead “Chains for cdelaney@centenary.edu
Change” fundraiser to buy Solar Array
Rhagen Russell
Article and rockin’ images by students will have to pony up the doe- Well now is your time to step up Copy Editor
Dr. Jeanne Hamming -a whopping $300 for each faculty/ and support a good cause while rrussell@centenary.edu
staff member. To donate, contact any I chain myself to a tree for your
President Schwab a treehugger? member of the CEA or Chemistry amusement.” Kevin Wagner had
Stephanie Schreiber
No way. Yes way! Club, or drop by the offices of our no comment.
treehugging faculty and staff where If enough funds are raised, a Features Editor
Centenary’s Environmental
Association and Chemistry Club donation jars will be available. 720-watt solar array will be installed sschreib@centenary.edu
announce plans to raise funds to Whereas normally activists hug on the roof of Magale Library. The
install a 720-watt solar array on the trees to prevent harm from being done array will produce 1117 kilowatts Todd Johnson
roof of Magale Library. The plan: to to old-growth forests, these devoted per year (93.1 kw/month, 3.1 A E Editor
chain four members of the college’s treehuggers will agitate for change kw/day). This produces enough trjohnso@centenary.edu
faculty and staff to the oak tree outside in the form of solar energy. When energy each day to power 5.5
of Bynum Commons as an homage to asked to comment on his impending Desktop computers with printers
encounter with a tree, Dr. Schwab for 10 hours. More importantly, Michael Jarboe
civilly-disobedient environmentalists
who chain themselves to trees to responded enthusiastically: “I love the solar energy generated from a Sports Editor
prevent deforestation. trees, and besides, everyone needs a 720-watt solar array prevents 1,469 mjarboe@centenary.edu
President Ken Schwab, Assistant hug once in a while.” Dr. Chirhart had pounds of coal from being burned
Dean of Students Kevin Wagner, this to say: “Have you ever wanted to each year, prevents 2,592 pounds Emily DeLatin
Dr. Scott Chirhart, and Dr. Jeanne get back at me? Maybe I gave you a of CO2 from being released into Mindy McKoin
Hamming have agreed to “hug a tree” bad grade, or I am about to give you the atmosphere each year, and
Photographers
for thirty minutes on April 22, Earth a bad grade. Maybe I just give you conserves 924 gallons of water
Day. But they won’t do it for free. a hard time. Maybe you don’t like each year.
To witness this “green” spectacle, the fact that I am so AWESOME! Carly Carpenter
Business Manager
Kari Patterson
Circulation Manager
Copyright © 2008
The Conglomerate is
an independent student
publication, and does not reflect
the opinions of Centenary
College of Louisiana.
Contact:
paper@centenary.edu
Phone: 318-869-5269
The Conglomerate
2911 Centenary Blvd.
Shreveport, LA 71134

4. February 1, 2008 Volume 84, Issue 16
Opinion: A Midwesterner’s view of Mardi Gras (alcohol and beads)
Kari Patterson interesting and very different from with Osama bin Laden target boards hadn’t done for about ten years--and
Staff Writer parades I’d experienced back home. got the most beads of all. was amazed to see that they let people
First of all, it is illegal for anyone Once the parade had ended and take alcohol on the ride. I commented
Mardi Gras is certainly an to throw anything from parade I had my armful of beads, I received on the oddity, and a friend explained,
interesting tradition in Louisiana, floats in my hometown, and public conflicting instructions on what to do “Well, as long as he doesn’t jump out,
and until this year it was twice as drunkenness is not allowed. It was with them. Passers-by offered advice it’s okay.”
important as Easter (if importance certainly a one-of-a-kind experience that ranged from getting a “bead bag” Having now experienced my
can be judged by length of breaks). to stand next to a completely trashed to putting them in a glass vase, but very first Mardi Gras, I can definitively
Last year, as a “Yankee,” I wanted to grandmother who waved her pink the one thing everyone agreed upon say that I still don’t understand much
try to get a feel for what Mardi Gras fuzzy cowboy hat at the passing floats was that under no circumstances of it, but it was a lot of fun. Never
is all about without having to risk life, to get as many plastic beads thrown was I allowed to throw them away. fear, those three of you at Centenary
limb, and liver in New Orleans. So, at her head as possible. Fortunately Plastic beads are semi-precious who have never celebrated Mardi
under the wing of a native Louisianan, for me, she kept turning and nearly objects in the world of Mardi Gras, Gras before; if I can survive, so can
I ventured forth to Lafayette for a falling off the chair she was standing but there was no way I was going to you! Just keep an open mind and
parade. I was advised that I would on to sling beads around my neck, take them home. Every Northerner I don’t judge. Hey, I really don’t have
enjoy the parades there more than declaring that I didn’t have nearly know assumes that there’s only one room to talk anyways; the highlight
in a small-town environment like enough. Apparently she hadn’t way to get beads, and that was not of my hometown’s festival is seeing
Berwick, where instead of beads noticed the twenty thousand strands a reputation I wanted. I did the next who can grow the biggest pumpkin.
and floats, I would get to watch that I had already accumulated, since best thing, though: I gave them to Louisianans have alcohol and beads
lawnmowers while catching snorkel having a friend announce to the people some kids. at their party, and we have giant
gear, McDonald’s toys, and Check- on the floats that it was my first Mardi After the parade, my “guide” squash. I hear that Arkansas is lovely
into-Cash advertisements. While I’m Gras was the equivalent of painting and I went to some kind of fair, where this time of year, though.
sure they were amazing McDonald’s a target on my head. However, I do I succumbed to a bit of nostalgia and
toys, the Lafayette parade was quite believe the men standing near me rode the Ferris wheel--something I
Make a difference this Mardi Gras with community service
Jessica Brown afternoons and evenings free. This means they particularly welcome n21113938
Staff Writer is a good deal, but only if you are marginalized groups, such as the Yvonne P. Dayries
willing to do the work. Listed below GLBT and homeless communities. Volunteer Manager, UMCOR
Finally the time has come to take are groups to contact before you get Contact Anita if you would like to 7100 Read Blvd.
another wonderful little break from to New Orleans. If you’re staying in contribute to this service. New Orleans, LA 70126
school and celebrate. When people the Shreveport area, there are soup Luke’s House 225-346-5193
think “Mardi Gras,” they often think kitchens and an animal shelter that 2700 Louisiana Ave. (between laumcstormrelief.org
of king cake, beads, and Bourbon would love your help. Go ahead and St. Charles and S. Claiborne) Volunteer with the United
Street. Mardi Gras does encompass play with dogs for an hour or give Free Healthcare Clinic open Methodist Committee on Relief for
these things and so much more. someone from the streets a meal. I Tuesdays 6-8 p.m. a couple of days over the Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras is the day before think you’ll find that it will make a For more information or to break. Contact the Read Blvd. office
Ash Wednesday, and it celebrates the world of difference not only to them, volunteer, contact Jiselle Bock at 899- to coordinate dates and housing. Cost
end of Carnival. The cities best known but to you as well. 3431 or lukeshouseclinic@gmail. is $5/person/day to cover housing.
for their Mardi Gras celebrations If you are visiting New Orleans, com. Work can include anything within
are Rio de Janeiro, Venice, and New you should check out the intact http://f ind ar ticle s .com/p/ your skill level, such as painting,
Orleans. Fortunately for those of us French Quarter and see as many articles/mi_qn4200/is_20071114/ai_ drywall, flooring, installing cabinets,
at Centenary, one of the most famous parades as possible. According to etc.
places to celebrate Mardi Gras is just safety websites, people should not
a road trip away. enter the famous New Orleans
However, as we all know, the
city of New Orleans was devastated
graveyards without a tour, as they
have become areas of crime. In Scholarship Opportunity
by hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Even Shreveport you can check out the
before Katrina and Rita, Louisiana Ark-La-Tex Mardi Gras Museum and $25,000 scholarship for deserving students who self
was the second poorest state in the pick up a king cake at Julie Anne’s
Bakery on Kings Highway. Have fun, identify as being lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgendered
nation. With a median household
income $10,000 below the national be safe, and remember that you can provided by PFLAG (Parents, Families and Friends of
average, Louisiana felt the pangs of make a difference. Lesbians and Gays)
poverty even before the hurricanes St. Mark’s UMC
1130 N Rampart St For additional information, contact Dr. Joe Melcher,
struck. However, there is something
you can do to help. New Orleans, LA 70116 Chair of the Scholarship Committee
Did you know that you can 504-523-0450 (504) 944-6013
receive free housing in exchange for A meal is served for the homeless
and anyone else who would like to (504) 520-5099
volunteering in New Orleans? You
can aid the poverty-stricken during join every Sunday at 11:00. St. Mark’s Due date for applications: February 10, 2008
the morning while getting your late is a reconciling congregation, which

5. February 1, 2008 Volume 84, Issue 16
Student Government Association International News
Meeting January 22, 2007
Israel’s blockade causes crisis in Gaza
Charles Eddy
Resolution 0708_23 to allocate $11,870.50 and manpower to Staff Writer
‘Homecoming 2008: A Century in the Making…Here’s to the
next 100,’ February 17-23. According to the BBC, Israel closed Gaza’s border on January 17, 2008,
After much debate, this resolution was amended and passed in cutting power to Gaza City and leaving the region dangerously low on food,
the amount of $10,000. fuel, and supplies. Now Gazans have destroyed parts of the border wall into
Egypt in order to buy necessities no longer available to them.
The Israeli blockade is a response to rocket attacks from Hamas.
Meeting January 29, 2007
Ehud Olmert, Prime Minister of Israel, was quoted as saying, “As far as I’m
(Old Business) concerned, all the residents of Gaza can walk and have no fuel for their cars,
because they have a murderous terrorist regime that doesn’t allow people in
Resolution 0708_25 to allocate $1050.00 to the Centenary the south of Israel to live in peace.”
Fellowship of Christian Athletes to attend the annual FCA Humanitarian organizations are urging Israel to stop the blockade, as
College Athlete Retreat. water and food shortages have seriously lowered the standard of living for
The resolution was amended and passed at $850. residents. Egypt is doing everything possible to aid those who flee over the
border. Israel is in a bind because its strategy has been to keep Hamas isolated
in the area. With the Gazan-Egyptian border open, Israel fears the smuggling
Resolution 0708_26 requesting SGA to match, up to $1,200, of weapons to Gaza, where they could be used to launch attacks on Israel.
the monetary amount that the Centenary College Chemistry Despite acknowledging this, Israel has said that it won’t open the border.
Club and Centenary Environmental Association will raise, and
allocate that amount to those two groups to purchase four solar
panels for the Centenary College campus.
The resolution was debated but ultimately was fully funded at
Learning Lab
$1,200. Schedule
Writing Lab
Sun-Thur 8-10 pm
Resolution 0708_27 to allocate $1,000 to Escaped Images to
attend the South Central Regional American College Dance Learning Labs (various subjects available)
Sun-Thurs 6-9 pm
Conference scheduled February 27 – March 1, 2008.
The resolution was debated and amended and passed with $800. The labs should be opening starting on the 23rd.
(New Business)
Satellite will likely collide with Earth
Resolution 0708_28 to allocate $320.00 to fund activities for Best
Buddies of Centenary College. Stephanie Schreiber
Heard presentation; suspended the rules to vote on it that night; Features Editor
resolution was debated and ultimately fully funded at $320; the The U.S. government is monitoring the descent of a spy satellite that
provision requiring Best Buddies to return unused fund was may hit the earth within the next several weeks. After days of remaining
taken out of the resolution. tightlipped on any details, government officials have revealed that the satellite
is a classified National Reconnaissance Office spacecraft approximately the
Resolution 0708_29 to allocate $1,480 to Alpha Sigma Chi size of a minivan. At this point it’s impossible to know where it will hit, but
(Chemistry Club) to attend the National American Chemistry other nations have been warned that the satellite lost power and cannot be
Conference from April 6-10. controlled.
Similar incidents have occurred in the past with few negative
Heard presentation; resolution tabled until next meeting. consequences. It isn’t uncommon for satellites to drop out of orbit, but most
of them burn up upon re-entering the earth’s atmosphere. On occasions
Resolution 0708_30 to allocate $2,400 to the Christian when debris did reach the earth’s surface, it landed in oceans and uninhabited
Leadership Center to attend a mission trip to Mexico scheduled areas.
for March 14 through March 19 of 2008. This satellite may contain hydrazine fuel, which is fatal to humans in large
Heard presentation; resolution tabled until next meeting. doses; however, in the likely event that the tank breaks in re-entry, the fuel will
burn off and pose no further problems. John Pike, defense expert and director
of GlobalSecurity.org, claims that a spy satellite would not use nuclear fuel, but
Resolution 0708_31 to charter the Centenary Musical Theater it may contain toxins such as beryllium. The U.S. military could potentially try
Group and allocate $650 for its use in the spring musical theater to shoot it down, but that would only scatter space debris.
review. As of January 28, 2008, there have been no public predictions of where
Heard presentation; suspended the rules to vote on it that night; the satellite will land, but it will likely hit the earth in late February or early
resolution was debated and amended and passed at $500. March.

6. February 1, 2008 Volume 84, Issue 16
Presidential Election 2008
News in brief: big changes, big endorsements, big wins -
and Super Duper Tuesday
Versha Sharma Former Senator John Edwards John McCain won the Super Tuesday (also known as
Editor-in-Chief announced his end of campaigning endorsements of Rudy Giuliani and Super Duper Tuesday, Giga Tuesday,
on Wednesday in New Orleans, the Governator Arnold Schwarzenegger Tsunami Tuesday, and The Tuesday
same city in which he officially stated this week. The two prominent of Destiny, in various and sometimes
After receiving less-than- his intent to run for President. His Republicans’ favored states, New ridiculous press reports), which
satisfactory results in Florida’s absence leaves just Hillary Clinton York and California, are participating will happen on February 5, is so
primary on Tuesday, former New and Barack Obama to battle for the in Super Tuesday. named because 22 states are holding
York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani nomination of the Democratic Party, primaries or caucuses (the largest ever
dropped his bid for the Republican and both scrambled to reach out to to be held at the same time). Because
presidential nomination. Giuliani his voters afterward, both speaking so many states are participating,
skipped campaigning in other states highly of the campaign Edwards in addition to the votes that have
in order to focus his attention and ran. He highlighted the plight of already passed, a significant portion
money on Florida, which he was poverty-stricken and middle-class of the convention delegates will be
going to use as a platform from which families suffering from the uncertain decided. That is unusual so early in
to win the party’s nomination. The economy, as well as trade and health the election cycle (just the first week
former mayor came in third behind care. As of Thursday morning, of February): the Associated Press,
John McCain and Mitt Romney and Edwards had not endorsed either as reported in The Boston Globe and
officially ended his White House run Democratic candidate. The Washington Post, projects that
on Wednesday. 52% of the Democratic and 41% of the
Pictured: John McCain, courtesy of www. Republican delegates will be awarded
northwestern.edu. by the end of Super Tuesday.
Tech column: Great innovations in web browsing and e-books
Charles Eddy Flickr. Native support for RSS feeds ten ounces, and has a battery life of Kindle also features a built-
Staff Writer gives users the newest updates from about a week if the wireless adapter in dictionary, wireless access
their favorite websites, and a full set is turned off. to Wikipedia, and can have top
Flock streamlines social of extensions allows customization. It boasts a new kind of screen newspapers auto-delivered every
networking The development team for Flock that Amazon calls “electronic paper,” morning.
has even said on its website that it meaning, according to Kindle’s Whether or not it’s a viable
Over the years, web browsers will integrate Yahoo Mail, Gmail, and product page, “[Kindle has a] black- technology that will stand the test
have struggled to evolve, each Picasa in the next iteration, Flock 1.1, and-white screen that resembles the of time is unknown, but Kindle
time fighting against one another which should be released by the end appearance and readability of printed is certainly cool. It’s also been
to improve different aspects of of the month. paper. The screen works using ink, perpetually sold out since its release
the browsers—think Netscape vs. just like books and newspapers, but on November 19, 2007, and it still
Internet Explorer 5 and 6, or Firefox Kindle by Amazon might be displays the ink particles electronically. has a waiting list because Amazon
2.0.* vs. Internet Explorer 7. Most the new face of e-books It reflects light like ordinary paper and can’t produce the devices quickly
of the time, the enhancements are uses no backlighting, eliminating the enough to meet demand. Apparently
on the security front. Sometimes It’s incredibly pricey at $399 glare associated with other electronic the business of books isn’t going
streamlined usability or the user’s dollars, but Kindle is a strong displays. As a result, Kindle can be down without a fight, regardless of
ability to customize the browser is at innovation in the field of… books. read as easily in bright sunlight as in the frightening statistics about the
the heart of the battle. Honestly, that was something I had your living room. The screen never percentage of the population who
Now, thanks to the open source never expected to say in a technology gets hot, so you can comfortably read doesn’t read.
Flock browser (based on Mozilla column, but Amazon has forced my as long as you like.”
Firefox code), Mozilla and Microsoft hand.
might have to start watching their Kindle is an e-book reader with
backs. some new technology that puts it
Flock, available for Linux, miles ahead of the competition. For
Mac OS X, and Windows, lets users starters, it can wirelessly download
integrate a lot of their life directly into books almost anywhere via EVDO,
the browser. On the left bar, users the same wireless technology used in
can monitor, update, and upload to most new cell phones. It supposedly
social networking sites like Myspace, holds over 200 titles (or more, with
Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and an optional SD card), weighs just over

7. February 1, 2008 Volume 84, Issue 16
Meet Maya Trinkjaer, a great Dane who already loves Phoenix Underground
Congo: And how old are places. Anywhere in Europe you about what you’ve seen here so far?
you? haven’t been that you would like to Maya: I really don’t like the
Maya: I’m 23. go? cafeteria food, but from what I
Congo: What classes are you Maya: I really want to visit Italy, hear, that is not unusual even for
taking this semester? Switzerland, and Austria. the American students. I was also
Maya: This semester I am Congo: Explain your first shocked by the way the students
taking Advanced Visual Culture, impression of America. dance. I was not expecting that.
American Literature, and Literature Maya: My first impression Congo: So what plans do you
and the Environment. of America was when I was flying have for your stay in America?
Congo: What are some of into Dallas’s DFW Airport. The Maya: I plan to go to Mardi
your hobbies? city looked huge from above and Gras in New Orleans, and I am very
Maya: I played soccer for everything else around it seemed flat, excited. I would also like to see an
Jessica Brown
ten years and really enjoyed it. I love which is what I had heard about the Indian reservation. Other than that,
Staff Writer hanging out with my friends and United States. I would still really like I plan to visit Dallas, Texas; Mobile,
going clubbing. My favorite club here to explore Dallas. It looked like a very Alabama; and Florida.
Maya comes to Centenary this so far is the Phoenix Underground. interesting city from above. Congo: And what are your
semester from Aarhus University I like reading and enjoy literature. I Congo: What do you think career plans?
in Denmark. She arrived shortly also love traveling and have traveled about Centenary? Maya: I would like to be an
after Christmas break and will to several places in Europe. Maya: The people here are much English teacher in Turkey as of right
stay through the semester. Maya is Congo: Where in Europe have more open and kinder than I thought now. After that, I’m not too sure.
studying Scandinavian languages and you visited? they would be. It really surprised As you can see, Maya is an
literature with a minor in English. Her Maya: I have been to France, me. In Denmark when people pass exciting exchange student and is
time spent at Centenary will focus on Norway, Sweden, Spain, Germany, you on the street, they don’t even definitely worth getting to know.
her English minor. Bulgaria, Russia, and Turkey, to name acknowledge you. Here they want to She’s fun and easy to talk to. So far
Congo: So, Maya, where in a few places. say hello and see how you are doing. she really loves America and, most
Denmark were you born? Congo: Wow, that’s a lot of Congo: What don’t you like importantly, Centenary.
Maya: Aalborg.
Sex and the Centenary: 1 + 1 = 4? Understanding polyamory
Southern Elle, Staff Writer possessiveness are merely restrictive the relationship. Relationships can believe in loyalty, fidelity, and trust
cultural ideas, that the possibility of also be mono/poly, which means – keeping secrets, lying, or sleeping
If you think that open loving more people leads to more one partner is monogamous while with someone without their partner’s
relationships are an invention of fulfilling lives, or that sexual attraction the other partner chooses to have knowledge would be breaking
college guys trying to get laid by is a fluid desire which does not stop multiple relationships. Some of these fidelity. Instead, each partner must
multiple women, well, it’s time to get with the “bounds” of commitment. relationships may also be sexually have trust, respect, support, and
re-edumacated and leave the dark ages. There is no “set definition” of a open but not emotionally – in other honesty for all partners. Just like
We’ve arrived in the 21st century, and polyamorous relationship. In some words, the partners may have casual monogamous relationships, there has
many people are starting to wonder if cases, there are two “primary” or sexual relations with other people to be a whole lot of communication
monogamy is really the end-all, be-all more committed partners (who may but not fall in love with others. for these relationships to work. Often
in relationships. Why is it that most be married, dating for long periods This might sound a little far- partners will have “veto power,” or
animal species (including penguins, of time, etc.) who choose to have fetched, but you would probably be the ability to request their partners
which are only monogamous for a relations with other people outside surprised to find that you might know not to have a relationship, sexually
year) have multiple partners over of this commitment. If couples follow a few people who practice polyamory. or emotionally, with someone they
their life spans? Could some humans polyfidelity, then they are “fluid- Because polyamory is not very socially don’t approve. The partners may
possibly be (biologically, socially, or bonded.” This means the two partners accepted, many people remain choose to lay out specific ground
both – I’m not taking on this fight) agree that it is acceptable to kiss, date, closeted about their lifestyle. But it rules on what activities and actions
more adept at relationships which and/or touch others, but not to swap is not just the act of having multiple are acceptable in the relationship.
don’t require dire monogamy? fluids (e.g. have sex) with another partners that is revolutionary. The But most importantly, polyamorous
Enter polyamory. If you missed person. Other couples may choose to ideas behind polyamory, which stress couples don’t believe in possessing or
both Greek and Latin, that translates have secondary or sub-relationships, communication, trust, respect, and controlling other partners – instead,
to “many loves” (using, weirdly, a which mean the partners would have a lack of jealousy, can help improve it is a common trust, love, and respect
mixture of both languages). Unlike relationships with other people. all relationships – both monogamous that keep people together, not fear of
polygamy (many wives, one husband), These relationships may or may not and polyamorous ones. cheating or jealousy.
“polyamory” is the practice of having include sex, depending on the couple’s Polyamory (and the many If this sounds interesting (or
multiple relationships with multiple wishes. These relationships may people who practice this lifestyle) is confusing) and you want to know more,
people simultaneously, with the full be heterosexual or homosexual or often not concerned with “how” a there are tons of websites to check
consent and knowledge of all involved. bisexual, depending on the couple. relationship appears (e.g. the number out. I recommend www.polyamory.
Polyamorous individuals may choose Polyamorous couples may also of people or who is in a relationship org, www.polyamorysociety.org, and
this lifestyle for many reasons. include three people who choose with whom). Instead, the major www.lovemore.com. Wikipedia’s
They may feel that monogamy is to date, be committed, or have concern is that every person involved article on polyamory also has some
too confining, that jealousy and children as a group. This may or has full knowledge and consent of the interesting history and information.
may not include sex, depending on situation. Polyamorous couples still

8. February 1, 2008 Volume 84, Issue 16
Advice from Allison: On life after graduation and losing weight
Allison Cormier Dear Scared, Who knows, maybe the second time gain: chicken nuggets at 11 p.m., pizza
Staff Writer Most people do not know around you can get a degree that is every day in the Caf, and lots and lots
what to do with their lives even after actually worth something. of spirits on Greek Row. Losing the
The opinions and ideas expressed in this finding a job or graduating with weight is definitely a lot harder than
article do not in any way reflect those of advanced degrees. You need to ignore Dear Allison, gaining it. A few things I like to do
Centenary College, the Conglomerate, outside pressures, whether they be I want to lose a little bit of weight are varying my workouts, cutting
or the writer herself. In fact, these ideas
your parents encouraging you to that I have been steadily gaining since back on refined carbohydrates, and
probably don’t express any intelligently
informed opinions anyway. become a doctor, your grandfather freshman year. It was never a problem drinking lots of water. If these things
who wants you to attend the same until my clothes stopped fitting as do not work for you, then you still
Dear Allison, law school as he did, or your friends well. I already work out three times a have a few more options. You can
I am graduating in May and telling you that you have the goods week and I try to eat reasonably well. learn to love your new body as long
have no idea what I want to do with to be a mediocre erotic dancer. You What else can I do to lose some of as you maintain a healthy lifestyle.
my life. Everyone else seems to either need to channel out these influences this weight? If accepting this new weight is still
have a job lined up or have been and focus on what you really want Jiggly Junior not satisfying you, you can always
accepted into a graduate program. to do, as opposed to what you have just become friends with people who
I’m worried that I won’t ever figure been told you want to do. If May Dear Jiggly, are bigger than you. That way, you’ll
out what to do with my life. What can arrives and you still don’t have a clue A lot of people tend to gain a always look thin when you’re around
I do to start figuring this out? as to what to do post-undergrad, then little extra body mass throughout them.
Scared Senior you can always reapply to Centenary their undergraduate experience. The
College for another four-year go at it. environment is perfect for weight
College Night has moved!
To Pieworks on Pierremont
in Towne Oaks Square
next to Superior Steakhouse
Every Friday from 5 until close.
get a medium 1 topping pizza for only $5.00,
2 for 1 Wine, Well, and Draft
$4.00 Domestic pitchers, $5.00 Import Pitchers

9. February 1, 2008 Volume 84, Issue 16
Strange but true news: manic carrot-lovers, weird baby names, and ferrets
Kat Michiels about 45 members. Friday to Gregory. After he was 89 frozen ferrets discovered
Staff Writer On the other side, groups are actually born on Friday, the family Authorities called to investigate
also being created to counter the named the kid Friday because an animal control situation uncovered
Carrot lovers plan shopping carrot surplus. Concerned about they liked the name and the way it 89 frozen ferrets in a Virginia home.
spree the carrots that will be wasted, many sounded. In addition to the dead ones, the
Harry Potter and *NSYNC people are trying to organize post-day However, somebody decided animal police also rescued over 200
fans were always over the top, but cooking parties. These parties will to inform the tribunal, and it went live animals.
a Facebook group that has enlisted cook large stews and other carrot- up to the courts from there. Citing The ferrets were in a basic deep
over 100,000 members has a different filled dishes to bring to homeless an Italian law that prevents children freezer in the basement, along with a
love- carrots. The group of orange shelters and the like. being named anything “ridiculous cat, a rat, and other frozen animals.
vegetable lovers is planning a major If this goes over well, Centenary or shameful,” the court is forcing the Authorities do not know yet why the
shopping spree. On May 15, 2008, at should consider starting a mass parents to change the child’s name to animals were in the freezer.
2:00 in the afternoon, members of the movement of buying eggplant. If Gregory, who is the saint of the day They also took over 100 live
group plan to go to the local grocery we get a bunch of people to join in, he was born. ferrets, cats, dogs, and birds from the
store and buy up as many carrots as maybe we can eradicate the ugly Friday/Gregory, only fifteen house. The animals were in such bad
they can. This “panic-buy” started purple vegetable. months old, won’t remember a thing, health that 61 of the ferrets had to be
out as a joke, but has since branched If you want to join the movement, and it doesn’t look like anyone else euthanized.
out into something much more. sign up at www.panicbuyers.co.nr will either. An appeals court refused No word yet on why the Virginia
Critics are saying that members to hear the case, apparently because home had so many animals, especially
of the group are irresponsible and Court forces kid to change his Friday is considered an unlucky day. frozen ones.
that the panic-buy will cause a name Good thing Apple, Pearl, True
mass carrot shortage. An opposing Look out celebrities- an Italian Harlow, Banjo, and Pilot Inspektor This week’s bit of trivia: Popeye
Facebook group has been created court order is forcing a family to claim their citizenship elsewhere. has four nephews: Pipeye, Peepeye,
to oppose the shopping date- it has change its offspring’s name from Pupeye, and Poopeye. Seriously.
Breaking news: whales are possibly anti-American terrorists
Amanda Russell five species of endangered whales). the free world away from evil and to Afghanistan in the sense they
Staff Wrtier In an attempt to circumvent the into everlasting democracy, his “aid and abet terrorists.” Whales
Court order, President Bush quickly word is law. Bush’s labels the Navy’s are no longer safe or welcome. But
Who has a problem with whales? responded by granting the Navy interference with whale activity a Americans must be watchful. Whales
Besides being oversized and fish-like, waivers. Bush claims he issued the matter of national security. That’s could be living among you right now.
they generally stay to themselves waivers on ‘national security grounds.’ what makes this even more alarming. They may be your neighbors, your co-
and hide in the ocean, free from the The Times reports that this is not Is there something he knows about workers, or the old woman who sits
prying eyes of Hollywood. “Free really a matter of national security, the whales that the rest of the country next to you on the bus and smells of
Willy” star Keiko the orca whale is the but a matter of convenience to the should? Using cryptic analysis and cat piss and rotting cheese. She could
general exception. His time spent in Navy. I beg to differ. Google, I have uncovered the secret very well be a whale.
Hollywood, starring in hot Hollywood Although I think whales are of these beasts. The U.S. must take steps to
movies beginning with “Free Willy,” cute and generally harmless, I First, Bush calls the Navy’s combat whales immediately. First,
put him on the map. Whales also eat remembered back to an episode of interference a “matter of national those living next to bodies of water
plankton, fish, or other sea creatures “Wildboyz.” In this episode Johnny security.” The executive office that where whales may be hiding must
and help maintain the Earth’s balance. Knoxville and the Wildboyz, Steve-O deals with issues of national is the be immediately armed with whale
Whales are generally regarded as just and Chris Pontius, watched as killer Department of Homeland Security. harpoons. Next, captured whales
plain fun to watch - but not if you are whales exploded out of the ocean The DHS was created in 2002 to must undergo some form of torture
President Bush. The Commander-in- onto the beach to eat sea lions lying protect the national security interests other than ‘water boarding’ (because
Chief has recently labeled whales a there helplessly. It was terrifying. of the United States by combating let’s face it, whales dig water).
threat to national security. These whales are a threat to sea lions the effects of terrorism and natural Finally, Democrats and
The New York Times reported and Americans everywhere. Ever disasters. Since whales can’t cause Republicans must come together
last week that the U.S Navy’s active wonder why they’re endangered in any natural disasters that I know to solve this worldwide issue
sonar program, used to locate quiet- the first place? Man and beast alike of, President Bush must have been and break whale networks and
running submarines, disrupts marine have tried their best to destroy these referring to terrorism with his strongholds across the world. With
m.ammals that use their own internal creatures over the years. “Free Willy” statements. So, if whales are a threat global warming melting the icecaps
sonar and “acoustical systems” to attempted to cast the killer whale in to national security, and terrorists increasing sea levels, whales will
locate one another, mate, feed, and more positive light, but the killings are a threat to national security it have more places to hide. Maybe we
navigate the ocean. A federal district continued. I suspect the whales have logically follows that WHALES ARE should use nukes on the whales. All I
judge in California issued a series also been interfering with the Navy’s TERRORISTS! know is that something must be done
of mandates ordering the Navy to sonar communication system to This startling revelation will and it better be done fast before these
modify some of its sonar practices intercept state secrets. shock the world once the media whales breed, form associations, and
to protect mammals off the coast of Since President Bush is God’s catches word of the story. Sea Worlds take over the world with their sneaky
Southern California (which includes chosen servant on Earth to lead across the country will be compared fish eyes.

10. February 1, 2008 10 Volume 84, Issue 16
Satire: “Leave Bobby Alone!” - the ethics of ignorance
Amanda Russell year-old really understand economic and subsequently released by her
New Congo Favorite lessons such as the importance of demons. I’ve seen “The Exorcist”
saving money just as the Brady kids and “The Exorcism of Emily Rose.”
I first met the Governor when were forced to do when their dad Trust me; I don’t want to see any
he visited my hometown while I installed a pay phone in the living type of demon, in any type of
was in high school. Piyush “Bobby” room? But more importantly, why did form, in any type of body. Save
Jindal served as my Congressional Piyush choose Bobby as his favorite the vomiting and body contusions
Representative for many years before Brady boy? Surely the handsome, and spider-eating Satan babies for
running for the state’s highest office arrogant Greg or the stuck-in- Hollywood, thank you very much.
and losing to former Governor Blanco the-middle Peter would have been While still a Louisiana
in 2003. Besides that stunning defeat, better. Maybe then Jindal could have Representative, Bobby reached
Jindal has since had some amazing married a winner of “America’s Next hero status once again. Jindal
victories. Top Model.” Who knows? delivered his own baby at home on
Not to be outdone by Dalip Singh In addition to learning life’s August 16, 2006. Jindal’s son Slade
Saund, a Democratic Representative lessons at an early age, Jindal was born to his wife Supriya at
from California who was the converted from Hinduism to approximately 3:25 that morning
first Indian-American to serve in Catholicism. This is a big deal. Family shortly before the ambulance buying cookies. He had to go and buy
Congress, Jindal became the first non- pressures to subscribe to certain arrived. Jindal, an honors biology cookies and not tell anyone about
white governor of Louisiana since religious faiths or denominations major at Brown University, played where he got them. Last Friday’s
Reconstruction on October 20, 2007. can be overwhelming for any person. doctor while following the phone Shreveport Times reported that Jindal
He is also the first elected Indian- Take for instance the time some of instructions of a nurse, ultimately violated a state campaign finance
American governor in U.S. history. my friends and I stopped by one of tying off the baby’s umbilical cord law. Jindal’s campaign reportedly
Now, if you’re from Louisiana, you those Big Tent Revivals on the side of with a shoe string. Bobby obviously failed to disclose more than $118,000
know the politics of the state. If not, the highway just to see what all the likes the spotlight. It wasn’t enough in funding he received from the
when I say the “politics of the state” passing out and shaking was about. that he was about to become the first Louisiana Republican Party while
what I really mean is that most of the Later when my mom found out, she Indian-American governor or was running for governor. That much
people are conservative and do not nearly passed out herself while she capable of exercising demons. He had money would be equivalent to a bunch
take kindly to change, but Louisiana shook me. to go and play doctor with his wife’s of conservative ladies buying Jindal a
usually ends up with a Democrat as But not only did Piyush abandon vajayjay. My favorite part of this story house, or a really expensive car, or
governor because he or she is able the Hinduism of his childhood, he is the campaign slogans that were 118,000 crispy chicken sandwiches
to garner the black Democratic vote adopted Roman Catholicism. Of generated. My favorite was “Jindal from Wendy’s and him attempting to
(there are 40 Democratic governors all the Christian denominations, I Delivers.” keep it under wraps. I think if he ate
and only ten Republican governors in really think Catholicism is one of Since conquering syndicated 118,000 crispy chicken sandwiches,
Louisiana’s history). the harder ones to convert over to. television, Roman Catholicism, however, the public might notice.
With much of the state’s southern First of all, you have to take classes to demon magic, and unsanitary Jindal must attend a public hearing
African-American population on the learn what Catholicism is all about. birthing environments (shoestrings!), on the matter scheduled for July 10.
run since Hurricanes Katrina and I went to Sunday school and sang what could possibly be left for this But to all the liberal media-lites
Rita, Democrats across the South songs like “Father Abraham” and man to full-Nelson to the ground? out there soaking up this situation,
scrambled to round up votes in the last “Jesus Loves Me” while my Catholic Ethics, my friend, ethics. Bobby Jindal I have one thing to say…How dare
election. Intelligent and conservative friends memorized the saints, recited likes ethics. In fact, he likes ethics so anyone out there make fun of Bobby?
Jindal was able to come out on top. prayers, and learned other church much he made ethics his number one After all he’s been through! He lost
But how much do we really know rituals. So not only did Bobby have to priority when he assumed office this the election in 2003, he saw a girl
about the man we call Bobby? Three learn a whole new religious doctrine, past month. with a demon, he had two kids…all
seconds of mindless Internet research he did this while in high school. I When I picture Ethics, I think you people care about is readers
unconvered some interesting facts know persons of all ages convert to of a 12-year-old Girl Scout. She is and making money off of him! He’s
about our new governor. different denominations all the time, selling cookies and also carrying a a human! What you don’t realize is
Jindal supposedly takes his but I can just picture a high-school math test. She got an A+. She has Bobby is making you all this money
nickname from “Brady Bunch” version of Bobby sitting in child- perfect double-braids, freckles, and and all you do is write a bunch of
character “Bobby.” According to sized chair in his catechism class bells on her shoes. She is followed by crap about him! He hasn’t stood on
family lore, Bobby fell in love with while a group of 12-year-old girls in rabbits, bunnies, birds, chipmunks, a soapbox in years; his platform is
the ’70s sitcom and adopted the frilly white dresses whisper behind and probably a couple of dwarves. ethics for a reason – because all you
nickname of the youngest Brady son, his back because he couldn’t recite Unfortunately, Ethics was dropped people want is ethics, ethics, ethics!
Bobby. I find this odd. I don’t know his ‘Hail Mary’ prayers fast enough. off at Bobby’s house by Vice. Vice is Leave him alone! You’re lucky he even
about most of you, but at the age of With catechism behind him, driving a black van. She has curly red ran for you bastards! LEAVE BOBBY
four I was watching ‘Looney Toons” Jindal was able to put his newfound hair, long fingernails, and is smoking ALONE! Please…leave Bobby Jindal
and “My Little Pony,” not a TV series faith to use. While receiving his two packs of Virginia Slims. Even alone right now, I mean it. If any of
that dealt with complex pre-teen and masters at Oxford, Jindal witnessed though she’s in the middle of suburbia you have a problem with him you
adult situations. one of his friends being possessed in January, she’s wearing a short, red deal with me.
I mean, can a four-year-old by a demon. In a disturbing cocktail dress. I thought Bobby would (Note: If you didn’t understand this, go
really be prepared for the horror that autobiographical article in the “New love Ethics forever. But instead, he to YouTube and watch Chris Crocker’s
was Marsha’s nose after she got hit in Oxford Review,” Jindal recounts the decided to pick up Vice. ‘Britney’ video. Enjoy.)
the face with the football? Can a four- night his friend “Susan” was possessed Bobby just couldn’t be happy Image taken from www.nolevee.com.

11. February 1, 2008 11 Volume 84, Issue 16
Shreveport is the third-best place in
the United States to film independent
movies, according to MovieMaker
Magazine.
The winter issue, which hit
newsstands this week, features the
A
E
eighth annual list of best places to
make indie flicks in the U.S., and Recording industry to sue more
Shreveport is placed higher than the
likes of New York City, Philadelphia,
college students for music theft
Charles Eddy
Seattle, Baltimore, and Memphis. Staff Writer
Surprise, surprise, but the RIAA is suing again. It issued a press release
In last year’s issue, Shreveport was on January 10 saying that its College Deterrence Program will continue
through 2008. The release began with, “The Recording Industry Association
#6 on the list. Alexandyr Kent of The of America (RIAA), on behalf of the major record companies . . . sent a new
wave of 407 pre-litigation settlement letters to 18 universities nationwide as
Shreveport Times noted in his article part of an ongoing campaign against online music theft.”
that the city of Los Angeles is absent. Students at these 18 schools, including Stanford, William and Mary,
and Duke, will be expected to settle or go to court. As of yet, there have been
no victories in court against the RIAA.
When asked in an interview with CNET columnist Don Reisinger
The top 10: why the RIAA was going after college students, a spokesperson for the
organization, Cara Duckworth, said that, “College students have reached a
stage in life when their music habits are crystallized and their appreciation
1. Austin, Texas for intellectual property has not yet reached its full development.”
Needless to say, the suits have caused a frenzy in online blogs and
2. Albuquerque, New Mexico columns, with Reisinger even saying that, “The MPAA and the RIAA are
two organizations that should be looked upon with the greatest amount of
3. Shreveport, Louisiana distaste and downright condemnation. Trust me, they’re really that bad.”
Whatever feelings a person has for the RIAA, however, the organization
4. New York City, New York doesn’t seem to be going away. Even though EMI (a major record company)
5. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania has threatened to pull out financial support for the organization, the RIAA’s
civil lawsuits have not even slowed down.
6. Wilmington, North Carolina As if it weren’t enough, Centenary students in dorms are at risk for the
same type of litigation. Apogee, the college’s ISP, states on its website that,
7. Seattle, Washington “At Apogee, we take copyright protection very seriously . . . If you share
copyrighted material without permission, you are breaking the law and could
8. Portland, Oregon be subject to . . . criminal sanctions.” It’s discomforting, to say the least.
9. Baltimore, Maryland
10. Memphis, Tennessee

12. February 1, 2008 1 Volume 84, Issue 16
2.7 million dollar Super Bowl Movie review: “The Great
ad will be 60 seconds of silence Debaters” is the best film made in
here, too. With the
the Shreveport area
buzz of the crown Todd Johnson One thing I noticed about this
and the roar of the movie is the fact that there is nothing
A E Editor
television, heads will that is recognizably Louisiana to be
automatically turn found in this film. The settings in
There have been many movies
when there is suddenly this film are completely believable
made around the Shreveport area in
silence coming from and unrecognizable, which definitely
the past couple of years. Some of them
the flat-screen. helped sell the illusion that we are
have been good (“The Guardian”),
Confused and slightly watching a Depression-era movie
others not so good (“Premonition”
inebriated folks will made around our area of the state.
and “Blonde Ambition”). I am glad
be looking for the Plus, it is commendable to have
that there was another good movie
remote control’s mute a Jim Crow film that does not make
made around our area. “The Great
button. It’s a pretty every white character seem horrible.
Debaters” is, in my opinion, the best
brilliant move by the After all, the other debate teams
movie made in Shreveport since
Pepsi company- too come across very well, as well as the
we became the movie mecca of the
bad the commercial students from the white colleges.
south.
doesn’t refer to a However, I do have some
Set in 1935, at the height of The
Kat Michiels specific product, minor quibbles with the film. One
Great Depression and Jim Crow laws,
Lover of Tom Brady meaning that by Tuesday, people will is the constant rotation of the team
the movie is about the Wiley College
have trouble remembering the point throughout the film. It seems like
debate team. Comprised of four
FOX is reluctant to share too of the ad. every member of the team quits at
members, James (Denzel Whitaker),
much information about the Super Commercial lovers can also look least once at some point during the
Samantha (Jurnee Smollet), Henry
Bowl ads this year, which have netted forward to seeing Richard Simmons film. Plus, the debates and messages
(Nate Parker), and Hamilton
about 2.7 million dollars for each in his ‘80s getup in what will be the are beat into the audience’s head
(Jermaine Williams), this team from
spot, varying depending on the time first commercial ever for Bridgestone throughout the film. The movie is
a small, all-black college in Texas
slot and length of the commercial. tires. “Squeeze those buns! You are preachy.
overcomes many different obstacles
The Super Bowl is planned to be worth it, ladies!” However, it is still very well-
both internal and external to become
the most-watched show on television Fans of “The Godfather” movie acted and compelling. The characters
one of the best debate teams in the
this week, with the writer’s strike still will enjoy a commercial’s spoof of the are likeable and the debates are
nation. They also become the first
going strong and with the football “horse head” scene, done by Audi. entertaining. I never found myself
black college to debate against white
fans still going crazy. Even people Now, I’m not quite sure what Vito checking my watch or wondering
schools (not to mention win).
who aren’t so crazy about football can Corleone’s profession has to do with a when the movie was going to end.
The first thing I noticed about
sit down with the beverage of their 100,000 dollar car, but I suppose that’s This movie is by far the best
the film was the performances. Every
choice and some bean dip and enjoy why I’m not the witty commercial made in the Shreveport area and
actor brings their A-game. Of course,
the Super Bowl commercials, arguably writer (good thing they’re not on worth a look.
this is to be expected when the top
the most enjoyed commercials of the strike).
two members of the cast are Denzel
year. We’ll also see the same old
Washington as the debate team’s
All reports show that Fox is not Budweiser commercial, complete
coach and Forest Whitaker as
allowing any political commercials to with Clydesdales and the Dalmatian.
the father of one of the debaters.
be aired during the Super Bowl, which In addition, there are six other Bud
However, they are really only
means that every sold-out spot will Light ads, some probably a little over-
supporting characters in the
be rich with consumer-y goodness. the-top, including one where a guy
story.
Other than the typical has X-ray vision allowing him to see
The actors playing the
Budweiser commercials, the most through women’s clothes.
debate team make their characters
hyped-up commercial so far is a Pepsi Finally, you may be privy to
identifiable. You can feel their
ad, already going around YouTube, about 76 commercials promoting
anxiety before the debates and
that is silent for an entire minute. American Idol, which is a reality
their elation after each victory.
The ad depicts two deaf friends on television show where contestants
They are the reason why the
their way to a party at someone’s compete in a singing competition.
movie is as entertaining as it is.
house. However, neither of them Apparently, it’s a huge deal in Britain.
The debates in this movie
have the address. However, no one Those of you who are more cultured
are compelling, even if they seem
talks (save for sign language and may have heard of it.
a little too relevant for today’s
subtitles) in the entire commercial. Tune in to see the Patriots
climate. Maybe that is to be
Hearing impaired and deaf people turn the Giants into little boys, the
expected when Oprah is one of
are celebrating the commercial as commercials, and a Super Bowl
the producers of the film, but I
a very great accomplishment in the halftime show starring Tom Petty,
digress. Regardless, the debates
community. Mary J. Blige, and Maroon 5 this
are spirited and are as exciting as
PepsiCo has a pretty good idea Sunday on FOX.
any action scene that I have seen.