Bulldog S U R V I V A L
G U I D E
THE TECH TALK / SPECIAL EDITION / FALL 2014
HUMANS OF
RUSTON
A glimpse of Ruston through the prism of those who make this city great PAGE 8 Seniors reflect on their time here at Tech PAGE 3
Are vapor lounges the new craze or passing phase? We take a look into Ruston’s latest establishment PAGE 10
SOUTH END ZONE PROJECT: Follow the progress on Tech’s most ambitious project to date PAGE 14
GO B U LLDOGS OFFIC IAL PARTN E R OF LOU ISIANA TEC H ATH LETICS
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2 • Bulldog Survival Guide • Fall 2014
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1. A.E. Phillips Laboratory School 2. Adams Classroom 3. Adams Hall (Residence) 4. Administration & Business, College of 5. Applied Sciences Advanced Studies Labs (South Campus) 6. Art & Architecture Workshop (South Campus) 7. Aswell Hall (Residence) 8. Band Building 9. Biomedical Engineering Building 10. Bogard Hall (Engineering) 11. Bookstore 12. Butler Building (Buildings & Grounds, South Campus) 13. CAB Annex 14. Carson-Taylor Hall (Human Ecology & Science) 15. Caruthers Hall (Residence) 16. Centennial Plaza/Centennial Tower 17. Cottingham Hall (Residence) 18. Dairy Processing Plant (South Campus) 19. Dairy Production Center (South Campus) 20. Davison Professional Aviation Building 21. Dudley Hall (Residence) 22. Early Childhood Education Center (Human Ecology) 23. Engineering Annex 24. Environmental Safety Building (South Campus) 25. Equine Center (South Campus) 26. Farm Shop (South Campus) 27. Farm Storage (South Campus) 28. Flight Operations Center (at Ruston Airport) 29. Football Practice Field 30. Forestry Laboratory Building (South Campus) 31. George T. Madison Hall (Arts & Sciences) 32. Graham Hall (Residence) 33. Hale Hall (Admissions & Architecture) 34. Harper Hall (Residence) 35. Hide-a-way Park 36. Howard Center for the Performing Arts 37. Hutcheson Hall (Residence) 38. Institute for Micromanufacturing 39. Intramural Field 40. J.C. Love Field 41. Jenkins Hall (Housing Custodial Office) 42. Jim Mize Track & Field Complex 43. Joe Aillet Field House & Charles Wyly Athletics Center 44. Joe Aillet Stadium 45. KLPI Building 46. Keeny Hall (Administration) 47. Lady Techsters Softball Field Complex 48. Lambright Intramural Sports Center 49. Landscape/Lawnmower Shop 50. Livestock Production Laboratory (South Campus) 51. Lomax Hall (South Campus) 52. M.S. Carroll Natatorium 53. Maintenance Shops (South Campus) 54. Marbury Alumni Center 55. Married Students Apartment Complex (South Campus) 56. McFarland Hall (Housing Custodial Office) 57. Meat Processing Laboratory (South Campus) 58. Memorial Gymnasium 59. Mitchell Hall (Residence) 60. Nanopulse Facility (South Campus) 61. Neilson Hall (Residence) 62. Nethken Hall (Engineering) 63. Pearce Hall (Residence) 64. Physical Plant (South Campus)
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78. South Hall (University Police/Health Clinic) 79. Student Center 80. T.H. Harris (Housing Office) 81. Tech Farm Sales Room (South Campus) 82. Tennis Courts 83. Thomas Assembly Center 84. Tolliver Hall/Post OfFce 85. Tractor & Machinery Laboratory (South Campus) 86. University Park Apartments 86. CC - Caruthers Commons 86. KC - Kidd Commons
86. NC - Neilson Commons 86. TC - Thatcher Commons 86. SC - Sutton Commons 87. HC - Hutcheson Commons 88. JC - Jenkins Commons 89. MC - McFarland Commons 90. Visual Arts Center 91. Wash Rack & Bus Shed (South Campus) 92. Woodard Hall (Education) 93. Wyly Tower of Learning 94. Tech Pointe
Fall 2014 • Bulldog Survival Guide • 3
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Reflecting on their time at Tech RAY PATTERSON Editor-In-Chief Jordan Whittington, a junior aviation major, knows what the greatest part of his college experience has been so far. “It’s having the freedom to do what you want,” Whittington said. “And flying every day.” Like other older students and upperclassmen at Louisiana Tech University, Whittington reflected on his time here and shared some thoughts about the college experience and what he learned. Whittington said when he moved out on his own, he knew only he could structure his life. “I realized it was all on me,” Whittington said. “I realized you have to put your all into your goal, and not get in with the wrong crowd.” Learning to structure one’s life and keep goals in focus is a skill many learn while in college. “Go to class,” is what Blake McElveen, a senior accounting major, said he would tell himself if he could go back in time. “My grades would’ve been so much better,” McElveen said. “Partying gets the best of you.” He said he really enjoyed joining his fraternity, Kappa Sigma, before he couldn’t afford it and had to leave. But he knows what he would have done differently if he could go back. “I wish I’d have gotten more involved with campus and not just the fraternity,” McElveen said. “I could have met way more people.” Cecilia Acosta, a senior secondary social studies education major, echoed similar sentiments. “I would have gotten more involved with extracurricular activities, associated with or without my major,” Acosta said. “To expand my social circle.” She said it was important to her because when she came to campus, she was always nervous about joining groups. But she said her time here has done well for her. “I think I have more
confidence, I definitely was reserved,” Acosta said. “Every year, I branched out more and more.” Yet learning is as fun for her as a growing circle of friends. “I enjoy class and learning, the powerpoints and all,” Acosta said. “I could spend hours in a classroom. I just hate showing I learned; I just don’t like tests.” But sometimes the expectations of college don’t match up to reality. “I thought, ‘Yes, college, finally,’” said Zach Brown, a senior business administration major, of the presumed near-anarchic freedom of coming to college. “I expected the stereotypical college scene, for the rules of Tech to be not so firm. But it was probably what I needed. If I had gone to LSU or something, I probably wouldn’t still be in college.” Brown said he tore ligaments in his leg, bashed the skin open above his eye and lost a tooth falling up a flight of stairs, as he showed the nearly identical replacement in the front of his mouth. “I was wrestling a buddy, we were both drunk,” Brown said with a smile like a learned sage. “He got me in a hold, and dropped me. My tooth exploded, and I never saw it again.” All this action, however, taught Brown some lessons to carry through life. “I learned to sit back and watch, not to open your mouth so much,” Brown said. “Things are gonna be bad. You’ve got to roll with the punches. There’s always another day, more sunshine.” Brown left some final thoughts on preparing for the business world: “It’s not about the grades you make, but the hands you shake.” Whittington shared what he thought was most important in meeting new people. “Your first impression is the number one thing,” Whittington said. “You get your foot in the door. Don’t mess up.”
Above: Zach Brown, senior business administration major. Right: Jordan Whittington, junior aviation major. Far right: Blake McElveen, senior accounting major. Below: Cecilia Acosta, senior secondary social studies education major. Photos by Devin Dronett
McElveen shared what he disliked most about his experience on campus. “It’d be nice if they got rid of the dorms and didn’t make you have to live in them,” McElveen said. “One thing made me mad. It felt like they never turned the A/C on.” And Acosta summed up what the journey of college best means on an individual level: “Yea, education is important,” Acosta said. “But I think college is the time to try new things. To become the person you want to be.”
Email comments to cjm048@latech.edu.
Canterbury Association
THE EPISCOPAL MINISTRY AT LOUISIANA TECH WELCOMES YOU!
n
CHARLESTON SQUARE A
Canterbury meets every Wednesday evening at 6 P.M. All Canterbury services followed by Fun, Food & Fellowship Where: Church of the Redeemer, 504 Tech Drive • PH 318.255.3925 The Rt. Rev. Jake Owensby, Bishop • The Rev. Bill Easterling, Rector Stephanie Carwile, Faculty Advisor, School of Architecture
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24 Hour Emergency Maintenance On-Site Laundry
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Private Balconies
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Dishwashers & Garbage Disposals 1 Mile From La Tech
EVER Y
I S W YO N E E LC O ME!
-www.latech.edu/tech/orgs/canterbury-
2100 WEST BARNETT SPRINGS AVE • RUSTON, LA 71270 • 318.251.0595
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4 • Bulldog Survival Guide • Fall 2014
Insight The
TechTalk
Life is a marathon
MANAGEMENT
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Ray Patterson MANAGING EDITOR Cody “Tick” McElroy MULTIMEDIA EDITOR Harold Foster PHOTOGRAPHERS Devin Dronett Kayla Frith ADVERTISING MANAGER Nicholas Todd ADVISERS Dr. Judith Roberts T. Scott Boatright ADVERTISING ADVISER Dr. Reginald Owens ADVISER/PRODUCTION MANAGER Michael LeBlanc ADVERTISING PRODUCTION Michael LeBlanc DEPARTMENT HEAD Dr. Reginald Owens
RAY PATTERSON Editor-In-Chief
R
ecently, I found myself getting scorched by the Louisiana sun while working to replace my jeep’s busted radiator.
As sweat dropped from my brow with a calculated rhythm, I found myself worrying about the work I was missing, the shift I had lost and the school work I was losing ground on as a result of my misfortune. Those thoughts gave way to worrying about putting the finishing touches on my wedding in October, which is a whole other beast in its own right. My graduation in March, my internship, my last classes and my wedding were consuming every thought I had and they only grew stronger as the sun rose higher. Then, I smiled. A single thought ran through my mind that made everything calm. “This is life.” I’ve been in such a hurry to get married, graduate and “start my life,” that I didn’t understand and recognize it had already begun. Life isn’t just about those key-
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
The Tech Talk welcomes letters to the editor. However, we reserve the right not to print anonymous letters. We also ask that each letter be accompanied by a telephone number, address, clas sification or title. We will not print the telephone number. Viewpoints should be mailed or brought to The Tech Talk office, 146 Keeny Hall, by 4 p.m. the Friday prior to a Thursday publication. Letters should be mailed to The Tech Talk, P.O. Box 10258, Ruston, LA 71272. Emails should be sent to techtalk@latech.edu. You can also submit letters online at www.thetechtalk.org/home/ lettertotheeditor/. Louisiana Tech University is committed to the principle of providing the opportunity for learning and development of all qualified citizens without regard to race, sex, religion, color, national origin, age, disability, marital status, or veteran status for admission to, participation in, or employment in the programs and activities which the University sponsors or operates. For Title IX information, see University Policy #1445 at http://www.latech.edu/ administration/policies-and-procedures/1445.shtml.
stone moments like graduation, marriage, birthdays and anniversaries. Life is about the radiator busting in the middle of Tech Drive, it’s about leaving your cell phone at home and finding out when you are halfway to work, it’s about the irony in cutting your hand while opening a pack of knives with a knife and it’s about the four hour emergency room visit you spent waiting for stitches. I will argue these days are more important than the good days because they teach us to appreciate the times when things go right, the times we get to celebrate another birthday with a loved one, the moment your child walks across the stage or the instant you hear that tear-jerking cry of a newborn baby. We often associate life to some sort of timeline containing all of these things but we rarely include the moments when life puts obstacles in our way. These trials and tribulations forge our character, teach us to believe in ourselves and serve as a constant reminder that nothing worthwhile comes easy.
We have to appreciate the struggles in our lives as much as we celebrate the victories. Robert Frost said it best, “In three words I can sum up everything I have learned about life: it goes on.” Don’t let perceived limitations hold you back from working toward everything you want out of life. You can either make excuses or you can make progress; the choice is yours. Life isn’t a sprint to graduation, to a new job, a wedding, a baby or retirement — it’s a marathon and when our bodies tire, we can look back at the life we had, forged through good times and bad, the smiles and frowns, the laughter and crying and the loving and dying and find peace knowing we lived every second as best we could. Perhaps it is the breath right before the last, when we realize how precious life is. Ray Patterson is a senior journalism major from New Orleans who serves as Editor-In-Chief for The Tech Talk. Email comments to rcp022@latech.edu.
FROM THE MANAGING EDITOR
Tech Talk subscriptions are $25 a year. Mail to: Tech Talk Subscrip tions, P.O. Box 10258, Ruston, LA 71272. The Tech Talk (USPS 535540) is published Thursdays of the regular school year, except in vacation and examination periods, by the Jour nalism Department of Louisiana Tech University. Publication office is in Keeny Hall, Room 139.
FROM THE 16TH FLOOR
FROM THE EDITOR
From Descartes to de heart CODY “TICK” MCELROY Reporter
C
ogito ergo sum,” or “Je pense, donc je suis,” or “I think, therefore I am.” French philosopher Rene Descartes determined, through a line of rational logic, that an individual can only know with absolute certainty one simple fact: he or she exists (“I am”). It is proven by recognizing there is an individual who can question his or her own existence (“I think”). Past that, we know not. Is this a matrix in which our bodies float? Are our emotions and physical reactions but mere phantasms? The list is literally as infinite as the imagination can conceive. We may not really have a body. We don’t know what happens after death. Or when or how it will come. The only other thing we can guess with as near of certainty as our consciousness is we will all die. The mortal coil will unwind, to steal a phrase, and hopefully we
“
shall find a rest of our bones and obtain soul’s delivery, to steal another. Religion attempts to explain origin and the great hereafter, and such a comfort dulls the maddening realization of one’s own mortality. But that is neither here nor there. What is, however, is the question of what to do with one’s existence. That maddening cognizance of mortality may initiate another line of reasoning: that there is no point in doing, for we all die anyway. My little sister once complained as to why we must make our beds because it will get messed up again anyway. That is the same mentality, yet we make the bed (at least some of us). Why? That is an individual quest. For me, it is because we as humans may find a literal cure for death, or alternate dimension which is what we consider heaven, a link to the afterlife and therefore severer of death’s unyielding scythe. The metaphor is sports: I will likely lose at least once, likewise
my life to death. Yet would I not play, try to score? But what actually matters is not the score. It’s the ability to look my teammates in the eyes, my brothers and sisters in life, and say I did all I could. I died on my last deadlift on the platform, breaking my body to score the touchdown, sliding into home plate. That’s the only score which matters. Life is a game. Play it, because it will end regardless, and you need to know for yourself that you played your best game your last. To steal a final phrase from a loosely tied movement from some of the greatest minds of human history, I say to you, as I leave you all for my hereafter to grad school and beyond, “Carpe diem.” Look that one up. Cody McElroy is a senior English major and journalism minor from Grayson who serves as managing editor for The Tech Talk. Email comments to cjm048@latech.edu.
FROM THE BARC
Always ready to lend a helping hand
O
n behalf of the First Year Experience, the Bulldog Achievement Center (BARC) and the Division of Student Affairs: Welcome! We are here to help our newest undergraduates, both freshmen and transfer students, transition into the academic, social and cultural community of Louisiana Tech University. We do this through integrated offerings of curricular and co-curricular opportunities throughout the first year at Louisiana Tech. We know that you have been welcomed to campus by a dynamic and informative Orientation program; we want to expand on that experience! Welcome Week offers a host of activities that will offer you the opportunity to become more familiar with your new home-away-from-home. Campus organizations will provide great entertainment and food!
You can find a complete listing of events at www.latech.edu/fye. Welcome Week activities will culminate with the Academic Convocation on Wednesday night September 10. Academic Convocation is the formal welcome by the university president, vice-presidents, faculty, staff and other students. First-year students will have the opportunity to participate in the traditional medallion deposit, followed by a pep rally and treats provided by the Marbury Alumni Center! Please stop by the BARC and meet the kind and caring staff of the First-Year Experience and Residential Life who are also housed in the BARC. The BARC is located on the second (main) floor of Wyly Tower of Learning. We know that this first year may come with challenges. We want to be a resource for you as you transition to university life!
Confidence Knowledge Leadership Caring Excellence Integrity Loyalty Hope Commitment Respect Enthusiasm Pride
It all starts here W
elcome to Louisiana Tech University! You are a part of one of our biggest and best freshmen classes ever and we are thrilled to have you here. We want you to know that we are committed to providing you with outstanding educational experiences throughout your college career. We also recognize that your education and development extends beyond the classroom, so our faculty and staff are committed to providing great learning opportunities for you outside the classroom. It is your involvement in those unique and exciting experiences that will distinguish you when you graduate with your degree from Louisiana Tech University. Get involved! Tech has earned a strong reputation for producing exceptional leaders over its 120-year history and I am confident that our reputation will continue to grow because of your decision to be here. Many employers come to Tech to seek out our graduates. I encourage you to get engaged in activities such as career fairs and professional organizations that will help to prepare you for success throughout your career. Be sure to check out resources like our Career Center that will provide information about jobs, career opportunities, and internships throughout your time at Tech. Don’t wait until the week before graduation to begin to explore opportunities after college. We have faculty and staff who can mentor you on the availability of graduate schools, professional schools, and service organizations should those be of interest to you. Be prepared! This is a great time to be at Louisiana Tech. Tech continues to be recognized among the best institutions nationally for value, return on investment, starting salaries for graduates, and more. The strength and quality of our student body is getting better each year, and the growth of our freshman class has been a testament to one well-known fact: Great students go to great universities. In addition to engaging and innovative curricula, caring and committed faculty and staff, diverse and active student organizations, excellent and new academic facilities, and great internship and career opportunities, Louisiana Tech offers you a nationally prominent athletics program that will build pride in your alma mater and provide you with spirited venues in which to celebrate Tech’s successes. Have fun! I look forward to visiting with each and every one of you during your time at Tech. Please be sure to stop by for a visit, or if you see me around campus, be sure to say “Hi” and let me know how you’re doing.. You are my reason for being here. Welcome to the Tech Family!
Fall 2014 • Bulldog Survival Guide • 5
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Product team offers opportunity CODY “TICK” MCELROY
Managing Editor
A new campus organization offers students from a variety of backgrounds the opportunity to create web solutions, products and technologies which could legitimately be brought to market. Konstantin Dolgan, a blank-year blank major, said he conceived the Louisiana New Product Development Team in January while taking an innovative research class. “I realized the university does not deliver a lot of inventions or new technologies or products,” Dolgan said. “However, Louisiana Tech has all the resources available: smart teachers, smart students, equipment and a supportive community. I decided that if professors do not deliver new stuff then students can take a shot and try to move our university forward.” The team’s diversity is evident in the eight departments Dolgan said is necessary for its functioning: research and development, prototyping, parketing, public relations and promotion, IT and web-development, intellectual property, finance and human resources Dolgan said LA NPDT, which started Feb. 12, has already completed two web-development projects. Dolgan said the first, IAP
Photos by Devin Dronett
Tech student Constantin Dolgan, founder of the LA New Product Development Team, speaks at a meeting. network (iapnetwork.com), is a website which serves a company that deals with international students applying and entering American universities. “The team has developed a responsive design for the website and integrated features such as the
ability to see information on every visitor and assist them via online text chat, voice or video call,” Dolgan said. He noted other features such as integrated social media, compatibility with mobile devices, announcements and online registration and payment.
Dolgan talked about “MusiColor,” an ongoing project he says is a new way of teaching and learning music. “With MusiColor, conventional notes are substituted with colors,” Dolgan said. “This makes learning music more natural and
Campus housing at max capacity CODY “TICK” MCELROY Managing Editor Talks have begun regarding plans for building new on-campus residence halls and renovating existing ones at Louisiana Tech University. Dickie Crawford, dean of student life and auxiliary services, said rising numbers of students living on campus were part of the reason for wanting to add or renovate residence halls, adding that the university can house 2,450 students on campus right now. “We are full,” Crawford said. “We are hesitant to increase the number we can house, but we may change how we assign residence.” The average freshman enrollment from 2009-2013 was 1,520 students, according to university records, but 2013’s enrollment was only marginally above average at 1,552. It increased 84 percent over 1307 in 2012, but was behind 2010”s and 2011’s 1,600 and 1,632 enrollment, respectively. Perhaps a high retention rate and students staying on campus have created a higher number of those living on campus. “We have been successful with retaining upperclassmen,” Crawford said. “Our philosophy is to priori-
tize freshmen. It’s a win-win: Crawford said these it’s better for development plans were extremely early and retention.” in concept and nothing has According to an online been set in stone. U.S. News and World ReThe type of building port study online showing Crawford said being considthe average freshman year ered is a cross between trato sophomore year return ditional residence halls and rates for 2008-11, Tech held full apartments like the ones at 76 percent, ranking low in already on campus near the the national standings, hold- Lambright Center. Having ing just over three quarters all apartments like some of freshmen to the next year. universities may seem nice, “I think we definitely but doing so would bottlehave to do something,” neck students financially Crawford said. “Whether we Crawford said, grow or not.” “We are one of the best Crawford said a reason schools in not having debt for wanting to replace or for its students when they renovate some leave,” Crawbuildings was ford said. “We age, referenc- “I think we don’t want to ing buildings definitely have to force more exlike the recent penses on the demolition of do something.” students.” Neilson and Crawford C a r u t h e r s DICKIE CRAWFORD also menhalls, built in dean of student life and tioned the auxiliary services the late 1960s. process for The type of funding resibuilding also dence halls is plays a factor, specifically a different than with other high-rise building like Harp- kinds of buildings, such er Hall, he said. as academic facilities. “They’re just high cost,” He said it is not done Crawford said of multi-sto- through the state budget, ry buildings. “Both to build but through other means and maintain.” such as student fees, so the Crawford mentioned university would need to buildings which might not ask the students what they be demolished which in- want. cluded Adams, Aswell, Dudley and possibly Graham Email comments to cjm048@latech.edu. and Pearce.
easier, especially for beginners. We are currently developing the first instrument with MusiColor technology integrated.” The LA NPDT’s hard work has already paid off in its short six-month lifespan. Dolgan said LA NPDT
took three of four prizes on Tech’s Top Dawg New Venture Championship, a competition featuring teams of students who present their ideas to judges, faculty and fellow students and which encourages students to develop creative, innovative products and services valuable in the marketplace. Dolgan also said LA NPDT has been featured on KTBS television in Shreveport twice and received a grant from Tech. Dolgan said he is extremely proud of the team and what it has accomplished so far. “Our team is not a bunch of people who like to play with ‘cool’ stuff, developing potato launchers or some other useless things; our team consists of very dedicated, ambitious and determined people,” Dolgan said. “We want to make people’s lives better and easier by solving their problems. We also want to show by our example that the purpose of studying at Tech is not to get out of school sooner, but actually to use school time efficiently, to be productive and work on achievement of your dreams.” Those interested can see their other achievements and contact them at lanpdt.org.
Email comments to cjm048@latech.edu.
Now serving 3 locations
Ruston Store Phone: 318-251-0065 3487 Highway 33
Arcadia Store Phone: 318-265-4822 1820 North Raildoad Ave
Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Saturday 8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Monday -Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Bossier City Store Phone: 318-562-3880 2695 E Texas St. Tuesday- Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
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6 • Bulldog Survival Guide • Fall 2014
2014 WELCOME WEEK Saturday, August 30
Wednesday,September 3
TAILGATE WATCH PARTY Come out to Argent Pavilion to watch our Bulldogs take on Oklahoma! Burgers and refreshments will be provided by Cook Baptist Church. Sunday, August 31
TASTE OF RUSTON Come check out our annual “Taste of Ruston” cook-off in the Plaza from noon - 2 p.m. Be a part of supporting the local businesses, campus organizations and restaurants in town as they share their free dishes with you!
CHURCH PICK UP! While you are at Dog Haul, make sure to sign up for a religious service.
TOURS OF RUSTON Take a break from the heat and join us on a quick, scenic bus tour of Ruston! Tours offered between 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
BURGERS IN THE QUAD Come fellowship with University Campus Ministries and enjoy free burgers in the Quad starting at 6 p.m. Bring your friends for an evening filled with food and fun!
STUDENT RECRUITER PERSONALIZED TOURS From 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., student recruiters will be located in the Plaza to show you where your classes are. Be sure to bring your schedule and find someone in a blue polo!
Monday,September 1 PANHELLENIC AND IFC COOK OUT Tech’s Greek community wants to give you the opportunity to meet and hang out with some of its Greek leaders in the Plaza at 6 p.m. MOVIE ON THE JUMBOTRON Come out to Joe Aillet Stadium at 8:30 p.m. for refreshments and a movie! Tuesday,September 2 PICNIC WITH PANHELLENIC Come hang out with the ladies of Panhellenic and your Gamma Chi leaders at 11a.m. for some lemonade in the Quad! OSL REUNION Come have some fun with your OSL at the Lambright Intramural Center starting at 2 p.m. GAME NIGHT Residential Life has a fun night of games and food planned for you. Come on out to the TONK upstairs at 6 p.m! NEW STUDENT VIP NIGHT The Tech Bookstore will be open from 7 - 9 p.m for first time students.
STOMP IN THE QUAD The NPHC fraternities and sororities invite you to come watch them show us their best struts on the steps of Howard Auditorium starting at 1p.m. The Taste of Ruston winners will be announced here! FIRST YEAR EXPERIENCE CONVOCATION Come be a part of this Louisiana Tech tradition and First Year Experience! See you in Howard Auditorium at 7p.m. Thursday,September 4 FALL FLING Come out and enjoy an awesome poolside event hosted by Union Board at the Lambright from 4 - 8 p.m. to start your year off right! FUSION United Campus Ministries will be providing a Praise and Worship service in Howard Auditorium at 8 p.m. Friday, September 5. B.L.A.S.T. Black Student Union, National Pan-Hellenic Council and United Afrikan American Men will be providing refreshments and informational handouts at the Lambright pool from 5 - 7 p.m.
AT LOUISIANA TECH UNIVERSITY
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UP TO
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Fall 2014 • Bulldog Survival Guide • 7
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Orientation an example of growth CODY “TICK” MCELROY Managing Editor
curately predict the number of incoming freshmen in the following fall. Last year saw a record “Oh, they’re heavily cornumber of incoming fresh- related,” Cline said. “There men to Louisiana Tech Uni- are usually 100 or more versity, and this summer has freshmen that come in the seen a record number of fall.” orientation students. Cline said the total numAndy Cline, ber of those director of oriregistered for entation and “Our main orientation inspecial pro- goal is to cludes the four grams, described three-day sesthe energy sur- help students sions, two transrounding orien- transition. fer-student sestation this year. sions and one “I’m so But ‘Presents’ one-day session. p u m p e d , ” helps get them All but the Cline said. “We excited and one-day session worked so hard are three days to reach our want to come long each, from goal.” Wednesday to to Tech” That goal, Friday. Cline said, was JORDAN RUSING Cline said on to have more orientation Wednesday, stuthan 2,000 stu- student leader dents were indents sign up. troduced to the This goal city and univerkeeps in line with another sity, and were tied to their one Cline described. As a orientation groups, meeting university, Tech president each other and their orienLes Guice hopes to have tation leaders. 15,000 students by 2020. On Thursday, they were According to university introduced to their intended records, the total number majors, advised on their first of registered students for classes and registered for orientation was 1,834 as of the fall. June 13. This is a 5.12 perFriday, they made any cent increase over two sum- adjustments needed and mers ago with 1,412. were given tours of the resiOther high numbers in dence halls and on-campus recent memory were 1,619 apartments. from the summer of 2004Jordan Rushing, one of 2005. this year’s orientation leadThe question is whether ers, said they have been orientation numbers can ac- preparing since January. He
said the orientation groups took a class to learn things like Tech traditions and department requirements. “We have most of it down,” Rushing said. “What you don’t know you learn as you go.” Leaders like Rushing have a high level of energy for the orientation numbers. “I think we get more and more excited when we hear numbers go up,” Rushing said. Rushing described a part of orientation called “Presents,” as in presentations, not gifts. It was held in Howard Auditorium where orientation leaders perform skits, the Regal Blues perform a dance routine and keynote speakers share words of wisdom. “Our main goal is to help students transition,” Rushing said. “But ‘Presents’ helps get them excited and want to come to Tech.” Both Rushing and Cline echoed something Guice has said: “Everybody is a recruiter.”
Photos by Donny Crowe
Andy Cline, director of orientation and special programs, rides with orientation student leaders Corey Green and Carlton Gray at a recruiting event.
Email comments to cjm048@latech.edu. Right: Orientation leaders and students fill Rail Road Park at sunset in downtown Ruston.
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Q. If you could give one piece of advice to a large group of people what would you tell them?
Q. If you were stuck on a desert island with only one other person, who would that be?
A. “To be brave, ‘cause life is short. To not let fears keep you back from trying something.� JAKE DUGARD co-owner of Maker’s Union
A. “I’m going to say my older brother, because he could build me a boat to get back. Because he can build anything.�
KATE TEDETON designer/videoorgapher Kelly Moore Bag
Q. If you had to pick a Disney movie that best define your life what would it be? A. “Probably ‘Tangled.’ My parents were so stricy when I was growing up. I felt really trapped like Rapunzel was in her castle.�
Q. If you could live at any time in history, when would that be and why?
A. “Right now. It’s a great time to live. The world has so much to offer.�
TORI SMITH barista at Parish Press Coffehouse
Q. What is you greatest fear?
MEGAN IRVIN senior architect major
A. “Not being successful in what I want to do in my life.� Q. What do you want to do? A. “I plan on using my degree to go into starting my own bicycle company and build and manufacture my own bicycles.�
BLAKE DAUZAT junior mechanical engineering major and Turbo Goat employee
E TALK
'BMM t Bulldog Survival Guide t
Q. If you could be an animal, which would you be and why?
Q. If you were
a mixed drink what kind of drink would you be and why?
A. “A cat. Because they’re mysterious and smart and besides, my nickname is Kat.”
A. “An Arnold Palmer. Because it’s part lemonade, part tea. Which means I’m classy, but I’m still a bit tangy.”
KATRINA HARRIS owner of One Wardrobe
ROSS MOORE Stylist Rumo’s Barber Shop
Q. What is your proudest moment so far in life? A. “When everybody from high school sent me a big postcard when I was having surgery.” KEITH SHEPARD senior C.I.S. major
Q. What are you most afraid of? A. “Snakes.” MORGAN HITT Social Bites employee
Q. You’re suddenly told you have a million dollars to spend on yourself, what do you buy? A. “A plane ticket to New Zealand.” Q. Just a plane ticket? A. “OK, I’ll buy property in New Zealand and TWO plane tickets.” ALICE MORGAN Lincoln Parish Public Library employee
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10 • Bulldog Survival Guide • Fall 2014
Lounge offers tobacco alternative RAY PATTERSON Editor-In-Chief
rettes,” Page said. “You don’t have to stop smoking cigarettes (immediThis fall is the first ately). It’s a tool to help quarter in which a new people gradually quit.” Page said he smoked state law mandates Louisiana Tech University to for more than 11 years be a tobacco-free cam- and multiple attempts to pus. Sitting just a stone’s quit eventually failed until throw from campus, Alti- he discovered vaping. According to the Totude Vapor Lounge, 975 Tech Drive, Suite 4, offers bacco Vapor Electronic Association, students an alternative to Cigarette electronic cigarettes — traditional tobacco. or “E-cigs,” The vapor — contain five lounge is the first of its kind “I was smok- ingredients, all of which are apin Ruston and ing at least a proved by the lounge manag- pack a day, Food and Drug er Jarrod Page Administration. said it’s a sign and then I The FDA of progress and came here.” regulates eacceptance that cigarettes as their doors are BRANDON it does other open in town. VICKERS tobacco prod“Ruston is a tech student ucts accordvery sound city,” ing to TVECA Page said. “It doesn’t let in a lot of rifraf, and new state legislait’s like clockwork and you tion has forced Louisican almost pinpoint to the ana Tech to become a day when things are going tobacco free campus to change and that’s from which includes a ban on habit — doing things the e-cigarettes. Brandon Vickers, a jusame way for so long. And in that same breath, I see nior kinesiology major at progression, I see things Louisiana Tech, said he changing and I think we stumbled into Altitude one afternoon just curious will be embraced.” “Vaping,” as it’s called to learn what the business for short, is somewhat of offered and has since a new technology, Page kicked his tobacco habit. “I was smoking at least said, and at its core, it offers an alternative to a pack a day,” Vickers said. “And then I came smoking. “It’s something to help here and started using a people get off of ciga- low rig, which has a re-
Photos by Ray Patterson
Jarrod Page (left) and Brandon Vickers (right) “vape” inside the Altitude Vapor Lounge on Tech Drive. ally high nicotine content. Then I slowly realized the lower the nicotine, the better the taste and I just sort of worked my way down. I give all credit to Jarrod and Altitude for helping me quit smoking.” Page said part of Altitude’s plan is to offer high quality products and a safer alternative to smoking to their customers. Also, part of their plan
is to create a community atmosphere that can bring people in the community together. The lounge features artwork from local artists showcased on its walls. “Ruston is a city that doesn’t have a whole lot of places to go and congregate,” Page said. “It’s got a bar scene, and it did have a (local) coffee house but there aren’t
many places to go sit and hangout.” Aside from e-cigarettes being a safer alternative to cigarettes, Page and Vickers agree that choosing to “vape” is much easier on the wallet than buying cigarettes. “Let’s say you smoke a pack a day and that pack costs five dollars,” Page said. “That’s $35 a week. One of our starter kits,
with the longest lasting battery, is $50 after tax and it can last for up to two weeks — so in that time its already paid for itself when compared to what you would have spent buying cigarettes.” Vickers said he feels better overall and that his anxiety and coughing is all but gone after switching to “vaping.” “I literally feel better because there is none of that harmful throat bite, no coughing every morning when you wake up, you just get up, put your battery in and you’re good to go,” said Vickers. Page said the grand opening for Altitude is scheduled for early September and that he is encouraged and excited about the initial response from customers. The lounge offers free WiFi and is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. Page said the staff is eager to help anyone who has never vaped before and will explain everything in detail to make sure customers enjoy their experience. “I really feel like this is going to get huge here,” Page said. “The sky is the limit.”
Email comments to rcp022@latech.edu.
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Fall 2014 • Bulldog Survival Guide • 11
Tech alum ventures into entrepreneurship RAY PATTERSON Editor-in-Chief After working in the manufacturing business for 25 years, Chris Willis a 2002 graduate of Louisiana Tech University, decided to follow in his sister’s footsteps and become an entrepreneur, opening reTagz thrift store at 208 W. Alabama St., in Ruston. The store is open from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Saturdays. While the excitement over being his own boss is nice, Willis said there are some concerns about the new found freedom. “The key to my success here is going to be advertising and networking,” Willis said. “Those are both new to me. The jobs I previously had there wasn’t any networking, you just went to work. Now, I’ve got to get out and meet people, meet the other business owners and get my name out there.” Willis said thrift stores offer a great value and said he is excited to be able to offer that to Ruston and the Tech community. “I think we have a lot to offer college-aged students,” Willis said. “We’ve got brand name clothes that come in, we wash
Photo by Ray Patterson
Video games, DVD’s and other entertainment items are displayed for sale at reTagz. them and then put them out in the same way a retail store would.” The store also sells DVDs and VHS tapes and old gaming systems like
the Super Nintendo and Sega Genesis and offer a selection of games to purchase along with them. Willis said his store has something for everyone
and he hopes people will enjoy the friendly environment at reTagz. “When someone comes in the door, we say ‘Hey, how are you doing? Wel-
come to reTagz.’ We want to have a pleasant atmosphere for everybody here and we price our items as fair as we possibly can.” Getting started wasn’t
easy as Willis said the store’s opening was delayed due to unforeseen circumstances with the state fire marshal. “We got in here in February,” Willis said. “The state fire marshal had construction to get done in the back and that took four months and we opened in June.” Willis runs the store with the help of his mother Mary Blood who is also a Tech graduate and his girlfriend, Vivian Wells, who is the store manager. Willis said he chose to open the store after being encouraged by his sister’s success owning two thrift stores in Farmerville. “She already knew the layout of how the business works,” Willis said. “She already knew about the documents that need to be filled out and she had plenty of inventory to help us get started.” Many of Tech’s students leave for the summer quarter and Willis said opening in June wasn’t ideal but he does look forward to the future. “It’s been slow to start,” Willis said. “But with all the stuff we have in here and new merchandise coming in daily, I really think (reTagz) is going to take off.”
Email comments to rcp022@latech.edu.
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To the Louisiana Tech Family: Thank you for taking a moment to read and consider my announcement. I have re-engaged my real estate license from the 1980s. This will be a second career, not a parttime effort. I pledge the same commitment to you that I did to the students, faculty, administrators, alumni, and friends of Louisiana Tech University. The opportunity to make dreams come true for students and their families was a driving force in my life. The relationships formed were based on trust and are lifelong in nature. Gary Stokley, PhD. I chose Keller Williams because of a team approach and the company’s philosophy toward life that I share: God, family, and work. Keller Williams is the largest real state firm in the United States and Canada. I am surrounded by partners with many years of experience. What you will receive from me is the enthusiasm and passion of a new agent and the wisdom and expertise of someone with many years of experience. But... I cannot do this without YOU!!! Whether it is you, your family, or friends when deciding to buy, sell, rent, or invest in land, commercial property or a home, I would appreciate the opportunity to make YOUR dreams come true. Gary Stokley, Ph.D. Realtor, Licensed in Louisiana Cell: 318-278-3124 Office: 318-812-7659 Fax: 318-396-2574 garystokley@gmail.com Current member: Trinity United Methodist Church (Administrative Chair), Big Whit Foundation, Emerson Centre, Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, Ruston Park and Recreation Advisory Board. Active supporter of CCA, D.A.R.T. and United Way.
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12 • Bulldog Survival Guide • Fall 2014
Arts Entertainment RAY PATTERSON Editor-in-Chief Talk about breaking away from the prototypical “superhero” flick — Marvel’s “Guardians of the Galaxy,” throws down on audiences with breathtaking CGI, a rhythmic screenplay and a superb cast. One doesn’t immediately gravitate to Chris Pratt when thinking of a superhero, but don’t let the funnyman fool you, he packs quite the punch as Captain Peter Quill, who unknowingly steals a mysterious orb coveted by Ronan, a villain who wants nothing more than to rule the entire universe. The movie opens on a scene choreographed to tug on heartstrings. A young Quill is in a hospital with his dying mother. The scene is very raw, and it ends by showing Peter as an adult in the present day. Director James Gunn was expected to deliver on the comedy and action but setting such a somber tone early shows his diversity and maturity within his direction. Quill finds himself paired with a unique combination of comrades such as Rocket Raccoon, voiced by Bradley Cooper, and green alien space babe Gamora, played by the lovely Zoe Saldana. Vin Diesel lends his
“Guardians of the Galaxy” is
OUT OF THIS WORLD
Photo courtesy of Marvel Studios
voice to a talking tree named Groot and World Wrestling Entertainment star Dave Bautista plays the role of Drax, rounding out the Guardians clan. Gunn, known mostly for directing the 2006 film “Slither,” and writing segments for episodic comedies like “Movie 43,” really settles into his own with “GOTG.” The movie carries itself with a sort of nonchalant attitude –– one that bodes
well and showcases an impeccable script written by Gunn and Nicole Perlman. The bravado and machismo is blatant, yet perfectly mixed with the appropriate amounts of off-the-wall comedy Gunn has become synonymous with. I really don’t think enough can be said about Pratt’s portrayal of Peter Quill/Star-Lord. Pratt has made a living off of his comedies and he serves as the catalyst for
taking the comedy in GOTG to the next level. It seems a simple equation — great script + great actor = great performance — yet so many movies have flopped trying to find the right actor and trying to work with the right screenplay. The movie’s main characters all mesh incredibly well and the villian Ronan, played by Lee Pace, is portrayed in classical tyrannical fashion. What is even more endearing about the
plot is that none of the movie’s heros necessarily started out as such. They all find themselves working together to not only save the “galaxy,” but for a bit of personal redemption for things they’ve done in the past. Best of all, is that the movie ends on an open note, leaving the story open for a sequel. This a rare movie where half way through watching it an audience member finds
themselves hoping for a sequel –– well played, Gunn. GOTG is a prime example of brilliant direction, excellent writing and MARVEL-ous acting. Combine all of those ingredients with excellent casting and a bevy of eyepopping special effects and you’ve got the recipe for the summer’s biggest blockbuster.
Email comments to rcp022@latech.edu.
Mayhem Fest...A bowl full of awesomesauce CODY “TICK” MCELROY Managing Editor
Skip Russell s Skip Russell s
Campus Campus Washateria Washateria JustEast East of of Tech Just TechCampus Campus
to UniversityApartments Apartments behind Wesley Foundation Next Next to University behind Wesley Foundation
• Open24 24 hours hours / /7 7days a week • Open days a week • Cleanest in in town • Cleanest town • Newmachines machines • New • Air • AirConditioned Conditioned
people run in, pushing everything in the way out of the way. Variations include a circle pit, where members run around the edge of the space in an intense human blender of sorts, and a wall of death, which is exactly what it sounds like: two sides, a drop in the song and then a mangling of bodies. Intensity varies, too.
Sometimes it’s someone standing alone, head down, flailing arms and legs, and getting in their comfort zone is done at your own risk. Sometimes it’s some basic but heavy pushing with an occasional accidental elbow.
> see MAYHEM page 13
Wyly Tower Wyly Tower
Alabama
Alabama
Wesley Wesley
Homer Homer St. St. Texas
“ST1TCH” from Mushroomhead surveys the crowd at Mayhem Fest 2014
Campus Washateria Campus Washateria
Texas
Photos by Cody McElroy
Louisiana LouisianaAve. Ave.
“We are THC! And we are the real deal; this ain’t sweet tea in this bottle!” That’s how the last day of Rockstar’s 2014 Mayhemfest in Houston, Texas, started: with the band Texas Hippie Coalition’s lead singer, Big Dad Ritch, pouring a fresh bottle of Coldcock’s whiskey on his face and lapping it out on the audience with his tongue. THC opened with an absolutely solid performance. They had a heavy sound, not too fast but speedy where needed, and the large front man — donned with a black cowboy hat, sleeveless button up shirt and walking out slowly with a Texas flag — brought that home-state swagger infamous of the state. The first band is always the warmup where the crowd gets comfortable with each other and the heat. No moshing took place for THC, and my friend Burkart and I just head bobbed to the music, pleased. But with the heat and close proximity, our sweat glands were already going and we were ready to get hot and heavy with the moshing and jams. For those who don’t know, “moshing” involves a chunk of the crowd backing up to open a space — usually at least 10 to 15 yards across, large ones around 50 to 100 yards — where
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Fall 2014 • Bulldog Survival Guide • 13
Distractions WEEKLYHOROSCOPE www.horoscopes.com.net
Aries March 21 – April 19 This week’s New Moon in Virgo can be helpful for ditching bad habits and committing to new, more life-enhancing ones. However, when it comes to finances, wait a few days before applying for a loan or other credit, as you may have more luck toward the end of the week. There is still a focus on fun, leisure, and enjoyment, which you’ll find rejuvenating and entertaining. One romantic liaison could move to a new phase of passion and intensity. Taurus Apr 20 - May 20 If you’ve been thinking about taking a budding romance to the next level, the New Moon on Monday may give you the incentive you need to make it happen. You have a two-week window of opportunity, but catching the Moon tide sooner rather than later might bring better results. In the meantime, if someone is being stubborn, don’t try to persuade them against their will. Later in the week they may come around to your way of thinking anyway. Gemini May 21 - Jun 20 The pressure’s on this week at work, so make a point of chilling on a regular basis so you can cope with the extra demand. In addition, you may be pushing yourself to complete projects on the home front, particularly if you’ve suffered from procrastination in this regard. Don’t pile too much on your plate - it could lead to disappointment. Instead, make time to be with friends and enjoy relaxing in good company whenever possible. Later, you may need to compromise but find it hard to do so. Cancer Jun 21 - Jul 22 Social trends spotlight an interesting plan, although cooperation and compromise may be required to handle a certain relationship. A partner or love interest could be headstrong and impulsive, causing you to feel frustrated. However, as the week progresses it will become easier to talk things over and come to an arrangement. Where finances are concerned, use this opportunity to consolidate your affairs and find ways to get your money to work harder for you. Don’t fritter it away if you can help it. Leo Jul 23 - Aug 22 Issues on the home front could come to a head on Monday, yet something positive can arise out of this. If you’ve been battling frustration and tension for some time, it’s possible that a solution can be born out of a desire for peace and harmony. As for you, you seem to be upbeat and positive, so try not to let such matters distract you from the goals, plans, and opportunities that are now opening up for you. Stay focused and you can do very well.to give. Virgo Aug 23 - Sep 22 Mixed signals suggest that one piece of news could cause anxiety, or perhaps a friend’s plight will impinge upon your time. However, giving an edgy situation the attention it requires might help ensure a relatively trouble-free week. The New Moon in your sign on Monday can be excellent for kick-starting a plan or making changes in any area of your life you choose. You have a
two-week window of opportunity, but the sooner you act, the better the results can be. Libra Sep 23 - Oct 22 This week’s New Moon in your spiritual sector brings an opportunity to take up a spiritual practice such as meditation, yoga, or tai chi. Your willingness to make this a regular habit could have a positive effect on all areas of your life, particularly the stressful and uncertain parts. At the same time, you’ll be boosted by the companionship of good friends who can make a positive contribution to your life this week. In romance, you could be attracted to someone who oozes sex appeal. Scorpio Oct 23 - Nov 21 A setback, hampering situation, or disappointment, possibly in connection with a friend or loved one, may test you. Instead of throwing your hands up in the air, focus on sorting things out. However, tensions ease as the week gathers pace and you begin to feel more confident and upbeat. Socially, things are looking much more positive. This week’s New Moon early on could entice you to move in new circles and seek out friends and companions on a similar wavelength. Sagittarius Nov 22 - Dec 21 Exciting influences prevail where your love life is concerned, though you may have to move outside your comfort zone for them to show up. As for career, this week’s New Moon brings a positive boost to a new project or plan. You have a two-week window of opportunity, so make use of it and you’ll find that things come together much more quickly than they might otherwise. When it comes to travel and adventure, someone may have a suggestion that you’ll find hard to resist. Capricorn Dec 22 - Jan 19 A patient approach may be needed concerning a friend or associate who is unwilling to compromise. But once this is out of the way, the week looks almost buoyant. The continued focus on your zone of finances and megabucks encourages you to connect with folks who are successful in their own right. This may be the time to learn a few tips and tricks that might come in handy. Regarding romance, someone may seem to have soul-mate potential. Perhaps it’s time to strike up a conversation! Aquarius Jan 20 - Feb 18 This week the New Moon in your zone of shared resources can be helpful if you want to apply for a loan or line of credit, but it might be worth waiting a day or two to avoid complications with those in authority. The coast should be clear by Thursday or Friday, with a better chance of getting what you want. Regarding relationships, things look very positive, but you’ll need to put in the effort to continue to reap the rewards. Later, your significant other could be too tempting to resist!
CROSSWORDPUZZLE Across 1. Continue 5. Director Lee 8. Attention-getter 12. Prefix with present 13. Son of Abraham 15. Colombian city 16. Freeway access 17. Style 18. Nabokov novel 19. Fit to be seen 22. NFL scores 23. Very skilled person 24. In ___ land 26. Pity 29. Clan emblems 31. Antiquity, in antiquity 32. Prevention dose 34. Ginger cookies 36. Tough soap 38. Pan-fry 40. Math course 41. Mindlessly stupid 43. Aired again 45. CD earnings 46. Ultimate purpose 48. Places of contest 50. Air.filled rubber hoop, become fatigued 51. The Mustangs’ sch. 52. Actress Alicia 54. Renter 61. Trademark 63. Total 64. Carson’s successor 65. Soared 66. Shooting sport 67. Neighbor of Sask. 68. Adjutant 69. Paris possessive
DAILY U
www.bestcrosswords.com 70. Difficult Down 1. Hiker’s snack 2. General Bradley 3. Treater’s words 4. Tries to bite 5. I’d hate to break up ___ 6. Granny 7. Attire 8. Angel dust 9. Flagship of Columbus 10. Lost traction 11. Sardine containers 13. Pertaining to fire 14. Big fiddle? 20. Reverberate 21. Chow 25. Fast time 26. Flat surface 27. Privileged 28. Growl angrily 29. Aquarium fish 30. Rotates 31. Biblical high priest 33. White ball, in pool 35. Cpl.’s superior 37. The King ___ 39. Hearing distance 42. ____ Grey, tea type 44. Captain of the Nautilus 47. Ogles 49. Intermittent watercourse 52. ___ Romeo 53. ___ me tangere 55. Diving birds 56. Dagger of yore 57. French summers 58. Boxer Oscar ___ Hoya 59. ___’acte (intermission)
60. Highway 62. Be in debt
LAST ISSUE’S SOLUTION
Have any ideas for future comics or feedback? Email dwyer@latech.edu
Pisces Feb 19 - Mar 20 If a long-range dream seems even more distant and out of reach, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s impossible. You may find you can attain your wish at a fraction of the cost by scaling back your plans. In addition, the New Moon in Virgo offers a chance to take a budding romance to a new level of commitment. If you’re already in a partnership, use this Moon phase to kick-start a challenging project and have a better chance of success.
SUDOKUPUZZLE
Hey Bulldogs! The Tech Talk is the student voice of Louisiana Tech, and that is why we want to encourage you to use it! Do you know of a special event happening on campus? Let us know! We want to hear your voice so we can better serve you as your campus newspaper. Send any stories, ideas or input to jts040@latech.edu
www.sudoku-puzzles.net
Fill in the grid Difficulty MEDIUM so that every row, every column and every 3x3 grid contains the digits 1 through 9.
LAST ISSUE’S SOLUTION
Sudoku Puzzle - Medium
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>MAYHEM from pg. 12 We went to get water, and when we came back the crowd was thick and Mushroomhead was going strong. They played tight and confidently, featuring a female vocalist once to offer a crystal contrast to the deep, bassy, popping rhythm of their sound. Burkart and I had never listened to Emmure and from the first note, we were hooked. The guitar riffs cut across to our ears, the vocals soared over and through all sound to reach us and the drum blasts thumped our hearts like a hard shot in a pillow fight with your older siblings. Avenged Sevenfold was
finally up. About five years ago, their drummer, James “The Rev” Sullivan, died. To be blunt, he will have inspired and influenced a generation of drummers, myself included. As a band, you must be respectful to your friend, to what he’d done for you and also to the fans who had that unique relationship with you as a whole and that person individually. A7X was a true culmination of that day. “We lost our dear friend five years ago,” lead singer Shadows said. “This song is for anyone you love and have lost.” I don’t think about it much, but I couldn’t ignore reflecting on my mother’s death four years ago in my senior year of high school.
Or my friend’s mother who committed suicide earlier this year. Or our mutual friend who succumbed to a heart infection about a year ago. There’s a lot you could take away from that experience. It’s those little moments, those shared experiences. The concert with my friend, the time with my mother trail riding and at rodeos. Those seemingly pointless conversations which mean so much. Strike a note on a guitar and when it fades, you have only memories. So keep playing with those who matter until the end and remember the shows honestly but stay true to your loved ones’ characters.
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Emmure gets set to start their performance on the final stop of the 2014 Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival at The Woodlands, Texas.
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14 • Bulldog Survival Guide • Fall 2014
Construction crews excavate dirt behind the south end zone at Joe Aillet Stadium. Photo by Devon Dronett
A work in
PROGRESS South end zone undergoing extensive renovation RAY PATTERSON Editor-in-Chief For several years, Louisiana Tech officials have brainstormed ideas to expand Joe Aillet Stadium and if all goes according to plan, the finished product of those ideas will come to fruition on Aug. 1, 2015. “Everything is on schedule,” said Assistant Athletics Director Adam McGuirt. “We’ve had some rain delays throughout the project but everything is on track right now.” McGuirt said the project is a 70,000 square feet addition to the south end zone. The lower floor will feature a new weight room as well as a new equipment and locker room for the football team. McGuirt said the weight room will be available to every team within the university athletics department, and the new room will more than double the size of the old one. The middle level will be filled with coaches’ offices and position meeting rooms and the upper level is the club level. McGuirt said other than game days, the club level will be avail-
wise this is just the beginning. This is the first part and we will identify what is next. We’re just a piece of what Dr. Guice’s vision is for the entire campus.” McGuirt said the total cost of the expansion is a fluctuating number and so far $18 million has been spent at this point in the project. “When you start a big project you don’t what is going to happen or what you may find,” McGuirt said. “Especially when you’ve excavated as much dirt as we have, something is bound to Illustration courtesy of Media Relations happen.” An artist’s rendering showing the completed look of the south end zone renoMcGuirt said it is fair to vation. say that excitement is a common theme among those look like have all been excited to don’t have access to the field in associated with Tech these see this addition to the stadium. the same way now and we’ve had days and the future is bright. “They are ready to see the shutdowns over the summer with “Anybody that can step back building come out of the ground,” water and electricity and they and see what is going on strateMcGuirt said. “They’ve heard have kept their eye on the prize gically in different places and the about it for a while and they are at the end.” vision of Dr. Guice and athletics ready to see it happen. They’re McGuirt said Tech President director Tommy McClelland’s viimpressed with what they have Les Guice is working on a master sion for athletics, you can’t help seen. They think we’ve done a plan for the entire university and but get excited,” McGuirt said. good job in designing the build- the south end zone expansion is “They have a specific direction of ing and they are waiting to see it just the beginning. what they want to do and where develop.” “Dr. Guice has a tremendous they want to go and they both McGuirt said the players and vision for our campus,” McGuirt work hand in hand to make that coaches share the same excite- said. “He wants to grow the stu- happen. It is tremendously exment as the fans do in anticipa- dent body to 15,000 and athlet- citing to work with those two to tion of their new facility. ics is a big part of that. The two make all of this happen.” “They are thrilled,” McGuirt go hand in hand and he sees the said. “They’ve been great in value in both of those together. Email comments to working around the changes. We As far as athletics goes, facility- rcp022@latech.edu.
able to any campus organization for banquets, award ceremonies or other general use. “It’ll provide a really fun and interesting venue,” McGuirt said. McGuirt acknowledged the new seats will provide new revenue from an athletics perspective but he said the expansion is about much more than increasing ticket sales. “The seats are just a minimal aspect of (the expansion),” McGuirt said. “Its not about adding seats, its about better serving our student-athletes and providing a venue that is not matched by any other in Ruston.” Aside from the new visuals, McGuirt said the expansion will provide other benefits to fans at Joe Aillet. “The south end of the stadium will be closed in,” McGuirt said. “That will have a great impact on the sound of the game. It will make it louder. The amenities that will be offered in the club area, for those that purchase a ticket, are going to provide an experience that is not available anywhere else.” McGuirt said the fans and alumni who have seen renderings of what the finished product will
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Fall 2014 • Bulldog Survival Guide • 15
Sports Talk “I feel like I’ve been here long enough and I’ve had a great time. It’s time for it to come to an end.”
HOMEGROWN: Johnson leaves legacy RAY PATTERSON Editor-In-Chief
Colby Johnson always knew where he wanted to go to college. COLBY JOHNSON senior outfielder Born and raised in Ruston, Johnson was a star at Ruston High School and when Louisiana Tech offered him a s c h o l a r s h i p, he pulled the trigger and chose to play for his hometown. “It’s nice actually having your family get to come to every game,” Johnson said. “Friends get to come Submitted photo watch me play too, you know. It’s nice being this close to home and being able to go see my parents whenever I want. It was one of the biggest factors of me coming to play here — (Tech) is Photo by Kayla Frith where I grew up. I didn’t Senior outfielder Colby Johson stands in the dugout at J.C. Love Field in Pat Patterson Park. really weigh my college
choices because I knew this is where I wanted to come.” Now heading into his final year in the classroom and on the diamond, the redshirt senior said he is focused on finishing strong. “I want everyone to know that I come out here every day to work and get better,” Johnson said. “And I want to help make other people better. I want people to see me doing the right things like going to class, paying attention and being a good teammate.” While most college students may settle into their character while going through the rigors of a collegiate curriculum, Johnson said he hasn’t changed much, if at all as he reflected on his time at Tech. “Honestly, I haven’t changed very much,” Johnson said. “I’ve pretty much been around the same group of guys since I’ve been here. I’d say that I’ve matured a lot, I can tell that. I’ve done better
in school and baseball is the same old thing — just go out and have fun every day.” Johnson said maturing helped him do better in the classroom and if he could go back in time, there is one thing he would have done differently. “I definitely would have paid more attention in class,” Johnson said. “I took school gently my first couple of years and it hurt me. If I could go back I would like to start off on a good note school-wise.” As he reflected on his time at Tech, Johnson said he will surely miss his time as a student-athlete but he also remains optimistic and excited for the future. “It’s kind of bittersweet,” Johnson said. “But, I’m looking forward to (the future). I feel like I’ve been here long enough, I’ve seen everything there is to be seen and I’ve had a great time. It’s time for it to come to an end.”
Email comments to rcp022@latech.edu.
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