Bulldog Survival Guide 2015 - Tech Talk Special Edition

Bulldog S U R V I V A L

G U I D E

THE TECH TALK / SPECIAL EDITION / FALL 2015

We showcase some of Ruston’s best eateries, bars, shops and boutiques! « Pizza courtesy of Roma’s Italian Bistro

PAGE 8

Oscar Buzz

Could these upcoming movies could get a nod from the Academy?

PAGE 5

Athletes to Watch

Make sure to keep an eye out for these LA Tech student athletes.

PAGE 14

Welcome Week

Wondering what events are going on during the first week of school? We’ve got you covered.

PAGE 10

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2 • Bulldog Survival Guide • Fall 2015

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

I

t’s that time of year again.

Louisiana’s sweltering summer gives way to an equally sweltering fall — a sign that, once more, classes are in session.

For the first-year students, welcome to Tech.

Your time spent at college will be one of the best times of your life.

You will make lifelong friendships, gain wonderful memories and come out with four years of irreplaceable experience.

For those of you returning to Tech, welcome back. I hope your vacations, jobs and internships this summer were everything you wanted them to be.

As I was thinking of what to tell all of you today, something hit me. I realized after two and a half years of work, this will be my very last Tech Talk.

As my staff and I were working on this paper, I thought about all of my friends who had worked with me previously.

I thought about the affect they had on my life.

Many have graduated and gone on to jobs at newspapers and PR firms. Some have gone to grad school. Many I will probably never see again. Some I will.

I do not bring this up just to be melancholy. On the contrary, I am excited for all of my friends who are doing well in their lives. I love seeing them post their successes.

I bring it up because college goes by so fast.

At the end of this year, I will be leaving Ruston too. I am excited about what that

brings, but I will admit, I’ll miss this town a bit.

So to all of you, whether you are an incoming freshman or a returning upperclassman, I want to give you this one piece of advice: have fun.

Make the most of your time here, because it will be gone before you know it.

Be sure to work diligently and sincerely, and put your all into what you are doing, because, after all, this is school.

But make sure you have a blast doing it.

And I have no doubt all of you will.

You will drive back from Dallas at three in the morning because you just had to go to that concert. You will cram all night with a pot of coffee brewing because you went out with your friends instead of studying.

You will throw house parties and bonfires. Who knows? You might even find the love of your life.

Above all, when you leave, make sure the town has as many good memories of you as you do of it.

John Sadler

,

OFFICIAL DENTIST OF LOUISIANA TECH UNIVERSITY TECH STUDENTS: COME IN FOR A CLEANING WITH YOUR TECH ID AND GET FREE BLEACHING TRAYS!

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Fall 2015 • Bulldog Survival Guide • 3

Religion thrives on campus FREDERIC NELSON Staff Reporter | fpn001@LaTech.edu For students on Louisiana Tech’s campus, the options for spiritual services are numerous.

There are religious organizations for Baptists, Catholics, Muslims and many others spread out over Tech’s grounds for any student that wishes to join.

Kaytie Lammert, is the director of the Wesley Foundation, a Methodist student group.

“For the upcoming school year we’ll be hosting weekly events, such as worshipping every Tuesday night, and weekly lunches with other group activities,” she said. “As far as the welcome week is concerned, we’ll be hosting an open mic night for students who would like to come and introduce themselves and show their different personalities.”

Lammert said she was excited to see who would come to the Wesley this year.

“Last year we witnessed 19 students get baptized and they were also able to explain what exactly it was that Christ had done in their lives,” she said.

Angelle Campbell is the associate director for the Baptist College Ministry, a job she says she loves.

“I love working with students because it gives me a chance to explore their thoughts while spreading the word of God to Members of the Ruston community gather for mass at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church early Sunday morning. them,” Campbell said.

Every Tuesday night there will Campbell holds a bachelor of science in psychology from the be Bible study for students.

“We encourage students to find University of Louisiana at Monroe and also obtained a master of sci- a place here and to have a home,” Campbell said. “We ence in school counhave a Survival of the seling from Liberty Fittest method that University.

“I love workstudents should al“This will be my ing with stuways pray, seek Christ, fifth year at Tech workfind the crowd that acing at the BCM, and I dents because cepts them, and be a always knew I wanted it gives me part of a crowd that to be a counselor,” will pray for them and Campbell said. “The a chance to help them grown in students here are a explore their their faith.” joy to be around and I thoughts while Muhammad Saralways get to see stuiff, a civil engineering dents grow closer to spreading the God.” word of God to major, is employed at the Islamic Center of The BCM also has North Louisiana. a list of events for the them.”

“We believe that upcoming school year every student should that students can be a ANGELLE CAMPBELL be able to practice part of. their beliefs and we “For the upcom- associate director were given an opporing school year, the for the BCM tunity many years ago BCM will be holding to have the Islamic lunches every Tuesday,” Campbell said. “The money center here at Louisiana Tech for collected from the event goes to- students to stay close on campus wards mission trips for students and feel a part of a group with the along with other out-of-town func- same religious views towards Allah,” Shariff said.

The new Islamic Center is under construction on California Avenue. tions for the church.”

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

Photos by Brian Blakely

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4 • Bulldog Survival Guide • Fall 2015

Insight The

TechTalk

FROM THE 16TH FLOOR

MANAGEMENT

Welcome back

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF John Sadler

PRESIDENT LES GUICE guice@latech.edu

NEWS EDITORS Blake Bolin Blake Branch

PHOTO EDITOR

Brian Blakely

PHOTOGRAPHER Devin Dronett

ADVERTISING MANAGER Taylor Loftin

ADVISERS

Dr. Judith Roberts T. Scott Boatright

ADVERTISING ADVISER Dr. Reginald Owens

PRODUCTION MANAGER Michael LeBlanc

L

ouisiana Tech Bulldogs and Lady Techsters, I am pleased to welcome each of you to what will certainly be an exciting and memorable 2015-16 school year at Louisiana Tech University.

For our incoming freshmen and newest members of the Tech family, congratulations on becoming part of a top tier, nationally-recognized research university with a rich tradition in academics, athletics, student life and community service.

For our returning students, it’s great to have you back on the Tech campus and to celebrate the progress you’ve made toward graduation.

Together, we are all looking forward to con-

tinuing the excellence and traditions that make Louisiana Tech the special place that it is.

Among the most important traditions that define Louisiana Tech are the Tenets of Tech.

The Tenets are 12 guiding principles that exemplify the personal qualities that Tech students should possess during and after their college careers.

The Tenets of Tech are Confidence, Excellence, Commitment, Knowledge, Integrity, Respect, Leadership, Loyalty, Enthusiasm, Caring, Hope and Pride.

I challenge each of you to commit to these tenets and to use them as a personal guide for representing your family, your friends and your university.

These tenets will grow in their meaning and impact to you throughout your time here

and your professional career.

I am truly honored to serve as your president and commit to you the support of our administration, faculty and staff.

Our priority is you and we look forward to lending a hand throughout your college career at Louisiana Tech.

For campus updates and information, and features about Louisiana Tech and its people, feel free to follow me on Twitter at @lkguice and visit my blog at http://guiceblog.latech. edu.

I am also available to you via email at guice@latech.edu.

I wish each of you the best of luck this year and look forward to seeing you around campus.

Go Bulldogs and Lady Techsters!

ADVERTISING PRODUCTION Michael LeBlanc

BRANCHING OUT

DEPARTMENT HEAD

Get out and find yourself

Dr. Reginald Owens

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Tech Talk subscriptions are $25 a year. Mail to: Tech Talk Subscrip­ tions, P.O. Box 10258, Ruston, LA 71272.

PUBLICATION

The Tech Talk (USPS 535­540) is published Thursdays of the regu­ lar school year, except in vacation and examination periods, by the Journalism Department of Loui­ siana Tech University. Publication office is in Keeny Hall, Room 138.

POSTAL

Second­class postage paid at Ruston, La. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Tech Talk, P.O. Box 10258, Ruston, LA 71272.

CONTACT US

NEWSROOM 318.257.4946 EMAIL techtalk@latech.edu ADVERTISING 318.257.4949 EMAIL techtalkads@latech.edu JOURNALISM DEPARTMENT

BLAKE BRANCH News Editor | mbb029@latech.edu

I

firmly believe that a person can learn more in their college years than in the rest of their lifetime combined.

College is a time for doing things that make us uncomfortable, taking a chance we would not normally take and attempting that which seems impossible.

With the arrival of a new crop of Bulldogs just weeks away there will be wide-eyed, baby-faced freshmen everywhere looking for a place where they belong, where they will be accepted, a place to call home or possibly a group to call family.

Majors will be declared, and then changed and then changed again.

Classes will be missed and/or dropped and you will make at least 1,000 decisions you regret in what feels like the blink of an eye.

Guess what? That is okay.

I was late to the party, arriving at Tech after two years of junior college baseball at Baton Rouge Community College.

I came in as a hard-headed, academically

uninterested and directionless 20-year-old.

Thanks to the family atmosphere that has been cultivated here in Ruston, I have found wonderful friends, a career path and a place I will always be able to call home.

But it would not have been possible if not for taking a few chances.

I would often tag along with a friend to parties where I knew no one. I would sit in the student section at football games and cheer so obnoxiously for the ‘Dogs that people had to take notice. I took on two jobs all while taking 12 hours just because the people I would be working next to were fellow Tech students.

The point I’m trying to make is you control your own destiny here at Louisiana Tech.

The people will welcome you with open arms if you will let them.

They will do all they can to help you find your way and that extends to the faculty who have been nothing short of exceptional in my three years as a Bulldog.

I showed up on campus a secondary education major, then I realized I was not cut out for that, so it became general studies.

Just this past year, Dr. Reggie Owens told

me he wanted me on his Tech Talk staff and asked why I was a general studies major and not studying journalism.

The support from the entire Journalism department is tough to even fathom sometimes, and I can assure you that same passion and care will be given to you by your instructors.

With these things in mind, I wish you luck on your journey to self-discovery.

I hope you make the most of this brief time in your life, because even if you are like me and go around for a couple of victory laps, the party will end too soon.

Make friendships with people you have nothing in common with, have a late night and early morning at the Revelry, work that crappy job for the beer and food discounts and leave your mind open to see things in ways you never thought possible.

Everything you do from here on will have a lasting impact on your life.

Get busy.

Blake Branch is a senior journalism major from Minden who serves as news editor for The Tech Talk.

318.257.4427

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 and classification or title. We will not print the telephone number.

Viewpoints should be mailed or brought to The Tech Talk office, 138 Keeny Hall, by 4 p.m. the Friday prior to a Thursday publi­ cation. 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 com­ mitted to the principle of provid­ ing 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/policies­and­ procedures/1445.shtml.

VIEWS FROM THE NEWS

Make the most of it BLAKE BOLIN News Editor | btb017@latech.edu

W

hen people say four years passes before your eyes, it is no joke.

I have never had four years fly by quicker than the past four years I have spent in Ruston.

Ruston is what you make of it. Coming from Baton Rouge, all I ever heard about Ruston was how boring it was, and those people could not have been more wrong.

Sure, Baton Rouge or any other big city has more options.

However, there is not a place on Earth I would rather be than in Ruston.

I refer to Ruston as home. When people talk badly about my city, it infuriates me.

If you hate Ruston, you probably are not giving the city a fair shake.

The biggest advice I can give is to get involved. Put yourself out there, you will not regret a thing.

Whether it be going Greek, joining a church organization, SGA, Union Board or wherever, by getting involved, meeting new people and making friends, your experience on Tech’s campus will exceed any expectations you

could have ever had.

I have made the best friends of my life at Louisiana Tech.

I have not regretted coming to this wonderful city or incredible university once.

When you are with friends, you will always find something to do.

You do not need to go to a business, a bar, a show or shopping to have fun.

I have had nights I will never forget that were highlighted by campus golf, climbing on top of the downtown movie theater, and kayaking in Hideaway Park, and that is just the beginning.

I will note that a couple of those activities would probably be frowned upon by university police, so don’t get caught.

No good story from your life has ever started with, “So I decided to stay in and watch three entire seasons of ‘Friends’ on Netflix.”

Don’t get me wrong, I love a night of binge watching Netflix as much as anyone else; just don’t make it your entire freshman year.

Your freshman year won’t be perfect. You are going to make mistakes. There is a chance you are going to come out of the starting gate and fall flat on your face.

Trust me, I’ve been there. I fell so hard, I’m

surprised I ever got up.

That is what college is all about, living and learning. You make a mistake, so what? You are going to make plenty of mistakes. Learn from them.

I would not change a single mistake I made my first year in Ruston. Those mistakes help define who you are. I am a better person for making those mistakes and learning from them.

These four years will hopefully be the best four years of your life, but it starts with you.

College is what you make of it.

There is always an adjustment period when freshman year arrives. Everyone has been the freshman with the “deer in the headlights” look the first day on campus. On Day One, just go out there and be yourself. Surround yourself with people who care about you and you will never look back.

I could write a novel about my time in Ruston and unfortunately for me, we are reaching the final chapter.

For you freshmen, your story is just beginning. Make it a novel worth reading.

Blake Bolin is a senior journalism major from Baton Rouge who serves as news editor for The Tech Talk.

www.thetechtalk.org

Fall 2015 • Bulldog Survival Guide • 5

Arts Entertainment

School isn’t the only thing that kicks off in the fall. Hollywood’s summer blockbusters give way to serious award contenders. Here’s a look at some movies getting early Oscar buzz.

Joy

The Hateful Eight Christmas

Christmas

Director: Quentin Tarantino Starring: Kurt Russell, Samuel Jackson, Jennifer Jason Leigh

Director: David O. Russell Starring: Jennifer Lawrence, Bradley Cooper, Robert De Niro

Eight travelers stop in a stagecoach station to seek refuge from a blizzard.

Expect Tarantino’s trademark witty dialogue and over-the-top violence.

Russell reunites his “Silver Linings Playbook” players for this drama about a woman founding and leading a family business across four generations.

The Revenant

The Danish Girl

Christmas

Director: Tom Hooper Starring: Eddie Redmayne, Alicia Vikander, Amber Heard

This adaptation of frontiersman Hugh Glass’s story of survival and revenge could snatch Iñárritu his second Best Director award in two years.

“The Danish Girl” follows the life of married artists Lili and Gerde Wegner as Lili becomes one of the very first publicly transgendered individuals.

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6 • Bulldog Survival Guide • Fall 2015

www.thetechtalk.org

A CALIFORNIA

CLASSIC

Dr. Dre

on stage at the Coachella Music Festival in 2012

With ‘Compton: A Soundtrack,’ Dr. Dre dominates the rap game after a 16-year absence BLAKE BRANCH News Editor | mbb029@latech.edu

TAKE A LOOK AT DR. DRE’S STORIED CAREER IN HIP-HOP N.W.A. IS FORMED

N.W.A DISBANDS

1986

1988

1991 1992

FOUNDS AFTERMATH ENTERTAINMENT

RELEASES “2001”

1996 1998 1999 2002

ANNOUNCES “DETOX,” HIS FINAL STUDIO ALBUM

2002

SIGNS KENDRICK LAMAR TO AFTERMATH ENTERTAINMENT

2012

“STRAIGHT OUTTA COMPTON,” AN N.W.A BIOPIC, IS ANNOUNCED

2015

HIS THIRD AND FINAL ALBUM, “COMPTON: A SOUNDTRACK,” IS RELEASED

2008 2014

2015 2015

“STRAIGHT OUTTA COMPTON” IS RELEASED

RELEASES “THE CHRONIC” ON DEATH ROW RECORDS SIGNS EMINEM TO AFTERMATH ENTERTAINMENT

SIGNS 50 CENT TO AFTERMATH ENTERTAINMENT

FOUNDS “BEATS

BY DRE”

SELLS “BEATS BY DRE’ TO APPLE FOR $3.2 BILLION

ANNOUNCES “DETOX” CANCELLATION

doing so.

“Darkside/Gone” has another feature from Kendrick and Ambrosius. This The last time Dr. Dre released a stu- track has a great vibe and even pays homage to Eazy-E with a quick sounddio album I was 7 years old.

Plenty has happened since the N.W.A. bite.

“Loose Cannon” is relentless as Xzifounding father last left us in awe.

For example, we entered a new mil- bit, COLD 187um and Sly Pyper grace lennium, we had our world rocked by the microphone, while “Issues” is filled the attack on the World with funky guitar riffs and a throwback Trade Center and Hur- verse from fellow N.W.A. member and ricane Katrina ravaged legend Ice Cube.

My favorite track from the album is Louisiana and the rest of the Gulf Coast region. “Deep Water.” Dre, Kendrick, Justus and We re-did every Marvel Anderson Paak spit with vigor and Laand D.C. movie you can mar even gets in a shot at Drake. I can think of, Pluto lost its easily see this becoming the album’s sigstatus as a planet, then regained it, and nature song.

Snoop joins in on “One Shot One America elected its first black president, Kill” and “Satisfaction,” both good but twice.

With so much occurring over the not great songs that drive home the 90s hip-hop feel I was past 16 years, hoping for. critics and rap Dre slows it fans alike had down for “For the good reason to be Love of Money” skeptical of what and in this inDre’s newest restance it works to lease “Compton” perfection. would sound like.

Eminem and After all, he did Dre prove the leave his adoring old guys still can fans out to dry, Aftermath Records make a hit, and announcing plans Compton: A Soundtrack they did with for an album Dr. Dre “Medicine Man,” dubbed “Detox” HHHHI a track that feathat was originaltures Shady payly set to release in ing his respects to 2002.

Dre with breakOne delay anneck speed and nouncement after another followed until 2014, when Dre said the album would precision. In reference to his struggle be out in 2015, but under a different title. with substance abuse Eminem says, “You felt my pain, it’s almost like I poked Enter “Compton.”

The album’s intro is a dark public voodoo dolls.”

“Compton” closes with “Talking service announcement detailing the history and current state of the city and its to My Diary” where Dr. Dre spills his thoughts on several topics such as inhabitants.

“Talk About It” features King Mez where he came from, what he has acand Justus on the track with Dre. The complished, the loved ones he has lost song slaps with classic Dre production along the way and the love he still has as the Dr. fires lines about owning Cali- for music.

In his swan song, Dre leaves us with fornia and unopened Eminem royalty a message to ponder, “Spirtitually, physichecks.

“Genocide” flows seamlessly with cally, mentally I’m on a whole ‘nother guest hooks from longtime Dre collabo- level, and don’t forget that I came from rator Marsha Ambrosius and Candice the ghetto.”

The music throughout “Compton” is Pillay. Kendrick Lamar guests a verse on this one and displays the deep-thinking a blend of live keys and bass and analog groove he found on “To Pimp a Butter- drums and synths, bringing together the two decidedly different ages in which fly”.

Dre talks about the pressure of re- the timeless mogul existed.

Dr. Dre’s last album is not the best leasing his album and great expectawork he has ever put his name to, but tions in “It’s All On Me.” Many of the tracks take this ap- the sentimental value mixed the homproach, with the MC unafraid of con- age and history in which it encompasses fronting his detractors and those who makes “Compton” a classic.

Enjoy this final dose of gangster rap claimed he would never release another album, or better yet, was incapable of as prescribed by Dre himself.

www.thetechtalk.org

Fall 2015 • Bulldog Survival Guide • 7

THE 25T

H ANNU COUNTY AL PUTNAM SPELLIN G BEE

DOUBT

H MEMOIRS

BRIGHTON BEAC

Stone Theatre announces 2015-16 schedule A … My Name is Alice “A … My Name is Alice” is a musical revue first performed in 1983 at the Top of the Gate in Greenwich Village, New York.

The revue, conceived and directed by Joan Micklin Silver and Julianne Boyd, features songs and sketches performed by women of different ages and types in a wide variety of situations and relationships with insight, empathy and self-deprecating humor. The play is noted for the way its cast members introduce themselves, an adult update on the children’s ABC nursery rhyme. The revue will be directed by Cherrie Sciro and will be performed Oct. 27 through Nov. 1.

THE 25TH AN NUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPEL LING BEE

Sleeping Beauty

Love’s Labour’s Lost

This performance will not be one to miss. The Louisiana Tech theater department will tackle James Barry’s pantomime version of “Sleeping Beauty.” Pantomime is the style that Barry is famous for, having redone works such as “Aladdin,” Beauty and the Beast,” “Puss in Boots” and “The Wizard of Oz.” For those unfamiliar with this type of play, be prepared for wonderful musical composition and lots of slapstick comedy. This is not the “Sleeping Beauty” you anticipate. Paul B. Crook steps into the director’s seat for this main stage production, which should be fun for people of all ages. Show dates will be Jan. 26-31, 2016.

“Love’s Labour’s Lost” is one of William Shakespeare’s oldest works. Marking the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death, this production will be a treat for all audiences. The play follows Ferdinand, King of Navarre, as he and three companions decide to avoid the company of women for three years to focus on fasting and scholarship. Things take a turn when the Princess of France arrives accompanied by three women. The king and his subjects find it tough to resist the temptation of the beautiful women. The play has all sorts of laughs and, of course, some drama. Paul B. Crook will direct the performances, which will take place April 26-31, 2016.

S

o C Y L P UP

8 • Bulldog Survival Guide • Fall 2015

BESTOF

RUSTON Ruston’s businesses are some of the best in the state. From traditional soul food restaurants to trendy clothing, here is The Tech Talk’s guide to getting the most bang for your buck.

1 Photo by John Sadler

3

4 Photo by Brian Blakely

Photo by Blake Bolin

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Photo by John Sadler

7

Photo by Bri

8

ian Blakely

Fall 2015 • Bulldog Survival Guide • 9

THE REST OF THE BEST BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANT SCOTT’S CATFISH AND SEAFOOD

BEST BBQ

BRISTER’S SMOKEHOUSE

BEST MEXICAN FOOD EL JARRITO

BEST DONUTS DAYLIGHT DONUTS

BEST ITALIAN FOOD ROMA’S ITALIAN BISTRO

BEST PIZZA

2

JOHNNY’S PIZZA HOUSE

Photo by John Sadler

Photo by Brian Blakely

BEST SOUL FOOD FIREHOUSE SOUL FOOD AND GRILLIN’

BEST GROCERY STORE SUPER 1 FOODS

BEST BEER SELECTION PORTICO

BEST DESSERT SOCIAL BITES

BEST CHINESE BUFFET

5

Z BUFFET

Photo by Brian Blakely

1. BEST MARGARITAS LA BAMBA

2. BEST BURGER DAWGHOUSE SPORTS GRILL

3. BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING STORE BEEHIVE OUTLET

4. BEST COFFEE PARISH PRESS

5. BEST EARLY BAR

BEST STEAK BEAUVINE’S

PONCHATOULA’S

6. BEST ICE CREAM MITCHAM FARMS

7. BEST AFTERNOON BAR SUNDOWN TAVERN

8. BEST MEN’S CLOTHING STORE PATTON’S DOWNTOWN

BEST LOCAL BUSINESS MAKER’S UNION

BEST BOHEMIAN CLOTHING STORE A LITTLE BIT GYPSY

THE HIDDEN TREASURE ROSEMARY’S KITCHEN

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10 • Bulldog Survival Guide • Fall 2015

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WELCOME WEEK Friday, September 4

Tuesday, September 8

DOG HAUL • 9 A.M. - 12 P.M.

ResLIFE TECH GAMES • 4 - 6 P.M.

Student organizations will help new students move in!

All students are invited to a meal in the Plaza sponsored by Student Government Association following Dog Haul.

Join ResLife in the Quad as they host the Tech Games.

Lots of field games and food for everyone.

VIP NIGHT • 6 - 8 P.M.

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS • 5 - 11 P.M.

Join us at the Lambright Sports Center for a night of fun and entertainment with the movie, “Inside Out”, shown poolside at 8:30 p.m.! There will be bark practice immediately following the movie. Food will be provided by Aramark.

The Louisiana Tech bookstore will be hosting VIP Night for all of our first-year students! Come shop, pick up your books and win prizes.

Wednesday, September 9 TASTE OF RUSTON • 12 - 2 P.M.

Saturday, September 5

Come check out our annual Taste of Ruston cook-off in the Plaza. Be a part of supporting local businesses, campus organizations and restaurants in town as they share their free dishes with you.

PANHELLENIC TAILGATE • 3 - 5 P.M.

Join the Panhellenic Council on the hill in front of the Thomas Assembly Center as they sponsor a tailgate for all first-year students.

FIRST YEAR EXPERIENCE CONVOCATION • 7 P.M.

BULLDOGS VS. SOUTHERN • 6 P.M.

Let’s cheer for our Bulldogs at the first football game of the season! Bring your student ID to get in free!

All first-year students are invited to Howard Auditorium for a welcome and kickoff to Fall Quarter! You will hear from faculty and alumni and will learn what being a Bulldog is all about! Pep Rally to follow in Centennial Plaza.

Sunday, September 6 BURGERS IN THE QUAD • 6 P.M.

Come to the Quad for free hamburgers while getting to know some of our campus ministries! Sponsored by United Campus Ministries.

Monday, September 7

BULLDOG FOOTBALL WATCH PARTY • 7 P.M. Come to Tolliver Hall to watch the Bulldogs take on Western Kentucky! Sponsored by United Campus Ministries.

Tuesday, September 15

PANHELLENIC & IFC COOKOUT • 5 - 7 P.M.

Come meet some of our greek organizations as the Panhellenic Council and the IFC host a cookout for first-year students.

MOVIE ON THE JUMBOTRON • 8:30 P.M.

TECH XXI

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FALL FLING • 7 P.M

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12 • Bulldog Survival Guide • Fall 2015

BULLDOG CHECKLIST ACADEMIC SURVIVAL

DORM SURVIVAL

Pay before the purge

Bring everything

No one wants to be purged, trust us. The purge date is the day on which students who haven’t paid to lock in their class schedule get removed from those classes. Basically, you get kicked out onto the street to search for new classes. Purge dates reminders are posted to Moodle at the start of each quarter, so be sure to stay mindful of those dates. The first purge for the fall quarter is 5 p.m., August 31.

You never know what you could be getting yourself into. Do not depend on your roommate for anything. Be sure to have items such as power strips, plenty of clothes hangers, toilet paper, storage bins, shower shoes (cheap flip flops), medicine, headphones and a bedside lamp for all the late night studying. Also handy is a Tide to-go pen for those mornings when you spill on that nice new shirt right before class.

Get familiar with Tech email and Moodle

Practice patience

Your Louisiana Tech email address and Moodle account are the keys to surviving class. Due dates, reminders and miscellaneous information will be posted to these places almost daily, so never go too long without browsing them. Be sure to utilize Moodle’s participants tab to see if there is anyone you know in your classes.

It should not take you long to figure out that this is not Mom and Dad’s pleasant household. There will be times when your roommate annoys you, the shower may be crowded or you may be kept up late at night by the roars of your fellow dorm family. Be accepting of this fact and understand it is all part of the experience.

Get your student I.D. This is pretty much your all-access pass. Sporting events, food in the cafeteria, getting things done in the registrar’s office and just about everything in between. The best part? Your first ID is on the house.

But don’t lose it; the next one is going to cost you.

Be a good roommate, but not a pushover Hopefully your roommate is the kind of guy or girl who you can develop a lasting friendship with. Someone who shares similar interests, as well as hygienic and sleep patterns. If not, be kind anyway.

Establish dorm rules early on that you both can agree and adhere to.

Get your parking pass

Have some fun

This is one of the most crucial parts of your journey at Tech. The $60 you will pay is nothing compared to the amount of tickets you will receive. Tech Parking officers take their job very seriously.

This is supposed to be your time to meet new people and do new things. Stay up til 5 a.m. playing X-box with people you just met, cook a meal for your crew or paint up with some dorm pals for a football game. Do it all.

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Fall 2015 • Bulldog Survival Guide • 13

Distractions WEEKLYHOROSCOPE www.horoscopes.com.net

Aries March 21 – April 19 A possible change in direction might arise today. You could meet someone new or run into someone you haven’t seen in a while who offers you a chance to change careers. Or it could become clear that you need to pursue your art or hobby full time. Whichever it is, Aries, this is a great day to pursue it, even if you have doubts. Your past accomplishments afford you an advantage.

Taurus Apr 20 - May 20 The day will be fairly eventful, Taurus. There’s some likelihood that you will feel compelled to finally settle some tedious matter, either the details of a project or a problem concerning your domestic life. You won’t rest until it’s finished, and you won’t be distracted, no matter how you’re cajoled to join the others. The only thing that will matter to you will be solving this problem.

Gemini May 21 - Jun 20 The day ahead will be trying for you, Gemini. You will have a fire raging inside. You may have a speech to deliver or a private performance to put on for your loved ones. In any case, you will have to prove yourself, and you will spare no energy in the attempt. You will be completely drained by the end of the day. Plan to rest.

Cancer Jun 21 - Jul 22 You can look forward to a busy day, Cancer. Don’t schedule anything extra! Your home, family, or mate is likely to demand a great deal of you. In fact, your energy may be stretched to the breaking point, so be careful to keep some strength in reserve. If you give yourself to them completely, your nerves will be shot!

Leo Jul 23 - Aug 22 It’s easy to imagine a friend coming to your house to have a cup of coffee and ending up transmitting all of their energy to you. Let’s hope this doesn’t happen too late in the evening, Leo, because you will then have trouble going to sleep! This energy is going to give your projects a great boost. You’re going to go on a crusade! Choose carefully.

Virgo Aug 23 - Sep 22 You may feel an urgent need to use your physical energy, which brings up the question of sports in your life, Virgo. Do you get enough exercise? If not, this could be a good time to join a gym. Even better would be participating in a group sports activity. Find one you like and get moving.

Libra Sep 23 - Oct 22 A day like today should give you the perfect demonstration of an old truth - people quickly forget the difficulties they’ve had in life and remember periods of happiness for a long time. You will be brimming with energy, Libra. The question now is what are you going to do with it? There are many domains in which you could expend your energy. You have to start from scratch.

Scorpio Oct 23 - Nov 21 Do you have a desire to take a trip far from where you live, Scorpio? Would you like to live in Europe or Asia?

These are desires that you may have at the moment because you’re in the process of widening your field of possibilities. See if you can seriously set up a project of this kind. People will be confident in your solidity at the moment.

Sagittarius Nov 22 - Dec 21 A previously untapped talent may emerge today, Sagittarius. You could decide to train this talent and create a new skill that can help you with just about any type of work you’d be doing. This is the day to do this. You should be full of energy and enthusiasm, capable of assuming any formidable task. You should be feeling physically strong and well. This is a day of challenges and new enterprises.

Capricorn Dec 22 - Jan 19 Romantic passion might motivate you to improve your physical appearance, Capricorn. You might decide to exercise, change your diet, and experiment with new clothes or haircut. You’re likely to produce the results you want. With the vast amounts of energy and enthusiasm churning within you today, you might surprise yourself - with this task or anything else you decide to do.

Aquarius Jan 20 - Feb 18 After a few days of apathy, the day ahead will give your energy a new boost. Anyone who tries to hold you back had better watch out, Aquarius, because you won’t be in the mood to tolerate objections. You can’t be restrained! This is an excellent time to reinforce your reputation as an excellent coach or the captain of your crew!

CROSSWORDPUZZLE Across 1. Rights org.

5. Palm fruits 10. Chews the fat 14. Common street name 15. Have ___ to pick 16. Util. bill 17. Mormon state of western USA 18. Dull surface 19. Rocket launcher 20. Complete change 23. Golfer Calvin 24. Leases 25. Move forward 28. Spouse 30. ___ a soul 31. Interpret 36. Rage 37. Republic in central Europe 39. Actor Kilmer 40. New word or phrase 42. Falafel holder 43. Villainous character in Shakespeare’s “Othello” 44. Cricket team 46. Simple seat 49. Farm machine 51. Planes, trains, and automobiles, e.g.

56. Leaf tool 57. Perspire 58. Oil of ___ 60. Citrus coolers 61. Bobby of the Black Panthers 62. Challenge to complete a task 63. Bears’ lairs

DAILY U

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64. Expressed disapproval 65.Across Break, card game

1­ Rights org.; 5­ Palm fruits;

10­ Chews the fat; 14­ Down Common 1. ___ Daryastreet (Asianname; river) 15­ Have ___Carrie to pick; 16­ Util. bill; 2. Suffragist 17­ Mormon state of western 3. One telling tales USA; 18­ Dull surface; 19­ 4. Sad Rocket launcher; 20­ 5. Maiden Complete change; 23­ Golfer 6. Behind 7. From head Calvin; 24­___ Leases; 25­ Move 8. ___’acte forward; (intermission) 28­ Spouse; 30­ ___ 9. Appear a soul; 31­ Interpret; 36­ 10.Rage; Polite 37­ Republic in central 11.Europe; Actor Delon 39­ Actor Kilmer; 40­ 12.New Intoxicate word or phrase; 42­ 13.Falafel Examines closely holder; 43­ Villainous 21.character Maiden name indicator in Shakespeare's 22."Othello"; Bohemian44­ Cricket team; 25.46­ Nabokov Simplenovel seat; 49­ Farm 26.machine; Infrequent51­ Planes, trains, 27.and Sweet sandwich e.g.; 56­ automobiles, 28.Leaf Politetool; address 57­ Perspire; 58­ 29.Oil Raggedy of ___;doll 60­ Citrus coolers; 31.61­ Threesome Bobby of the Black 32.Panthers; Apt. divisions 62­ Challenge to 33.complete Tel ___ a task; 63­ Bears' lairs; disapproval; 65­ Break, card game; 50.64­ ___Expressed of Two Cities LAST ISSUE’S SOLUTION 34. London gallery 52. Hey, over here!

35.Down Enthusiastic vigor 53. Is in the red and liveliness 1­ ___ Darya (Asian river); 2­ Suffragist 3­ One telling tales; 4­ Sad; 5­ Maiden; 6­ 54. Pearl Carrie; Buck heroine 37.Behind; Scores 7­ From head ___; 8­ ___'acte (intermission); 55. Japan’s first capital 9­ Appear; 10­ Polite; 11­ Actor Delon; 38.12­ Early bird? 13­ Examines closely; Intoxicate; 21­thing” Maiden name indicator; 22­ Bohemian; 25­ Nabokov 59. “Sure 41.novel; Pride woman 26­ Infrequent; 27­ Sweet sandwich; 28­ Polite address; 29­ Raggedy doll; 31­ 42.Threesome; Time spans 32­ Apt. divisions; 33­ Tel ___; 34­ London gallery; 35­ Enthusiastic vigor and 44.liveliness; On cloud nine 37­ Scores; 38­ Early bird?; 41­ Pride woman; 42­ Time spans; 44­ On cloud nine; 45.45­ Permit Permit; 46­ Fine fiddle; 47­ Commerce; 48­ Like some furniture; 49­ Smash; 50­ ___ of 46.Two Fine Cities; fiddle 52­ Hey, over here!; 53­ Is in the red; 54­ Pearl Buck heroine; 55­ Japan's first 47.capital; Commerce 59­ "Sure thing"; 48. Like some furniture 49. Smash

Have any ideas for future comics or feedback? Email dwyer@latech.edu

http://www.bestcrosswords.com/bestcrosswords/printable/Home,printable.sdirect;jsessionid=2CC92B4C71EC090C38C4D6D4304063A2?formids=loadSolution%2C…

1/1

Pisces Feb 19 - Mar 20 Information gleaned from friends could find you focusing on a new goal, Pisces. You may have a lot of ideas about projects you want to take care of, and today you may realize which one has top priority. Start moving!

Whatever you do, find out what you need before you start. There’s a chance you might waste time running from place to place looking for necessary materials.

SUDOKUPUZZLE

Hey Bulldogs!

Difficulty MEDIUM

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 emo012@latech.edu

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 grid contains the digits 1 through 9.

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14 • Bulldog Survival Guide • Fall 2015

Sports Talk Bulldog Watch 2015 LA Tech athletes ready to take a step forward into the spotlight

MEN’S BASEBALL

MEN’S BASKETBALL

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

CROSS COUNTRY

ADAM ATKINS

JACOBI BOYKINS

BROOKE PUMROY

HAYLEY BERG

In his first season with LA Tech after transferring from Panola College, Atkins became the go-to arm out of the pen for the Bulldogs. Atkins recorded seven saves on the season which was fourth in Conference USA. Atkins also led the Bulldogs with a 2.76 ERA over 45.2 innings.

Boykins was the Dunkin’ Dogs leading three-point shooter, percentage wise, in 2014-15. With the departure of the three seniors and Xavian Stapleton, Boykins is going to be thrusted into a key role. Boykins could be a star in the making for the upcoming season.

A transfer from Marquette University, Pumroy had to sit out the 2014-15 season due to NCAA transfer rules. Pumroy is now ready to lead the Lady Techsters at the point. Pumroy started 63 games as a freshman and sophomore at Marquette averaging 9.1 points and 5.2 assists last season.

A freshman from Loveland, Colorado, Berg made her debut at the Mook 5 Invitational last September and recorded a top 10 finish, placing ninth overall.

She topped that performance with a top five finish at the NSU Meet in Natchitoches.

FOOTBALL

TENNIS

TRACK AND FIELD

VOLLEYBALL

ZOE CHEN

JARRETT SAMUELS

ADRIA MORALES

Chen is an incoming freshman from Taiwan and has an incredible resume coming in. In 2013 Chen was the winner of the Nan Ying Cup International Junior Championships. She followed that up with a bronze medal at the 2015 Taiwan National High School Championships.

In his first season at Tech, Jarrett Samuels became the ninth Bulldog jumped to reach the NCAA Championships in Eugene, Oregon. Samuels was also named an honorable mention all-American. Just a half inch from becoming a second team all-American, don’t be surprised to see Samuels back in Eugene in 2016.

Morales started all but two games for the Lady Techsters in her first season with the Lady Techsters. Morales led the team with 479 assists, averaging 6.14 a set. Look for Morales to continue to set up the Lady Techsters for a dominant attack in 2015.

JEFF DRISKEL Driskel is the starting quarterback, transferring from an SEC powerhouse, in a season with incredibly high expectations.

The stage is set and Tech fans are eager to see him in action. Hobbled with injuries, a coaching carousel and a brutal schedule Driskel is eager to hit the ground running in Ruston.

GOLF

SOCCER

SOFTBALL

VICTOR LANGE

MORIAH PHILLIPS

MORGAN TURKOLY

Get used to hearing the name Victor Lange circled around the game of golf. The 2014-15 Conference USA Golfer of the Year, beating out UAB’s Paul Dunn. The same Paul Dunne who led the British Open going into the final round.

Phillips transfers in from Tyler Junior College where she was a second team NJCAA All-American. Phillips led Tyler in games played and games started, a team that tallied a 16-2-1 record and a number three national ranking.

BULLDOG FOOTBALL 9/5 9/10 9/19 9/26 10/03 10/10 10/17 10/24 10/30 11/07 11/21 11/28

TV TV TV TV TV TV TV TV TV TV TV TV

6 p.m. CT 7 p.m. CT 2 p.m. CT 1:30 p.m. CT 6 p.m. CT 6 p.m. CT TBA 2:30 p.m. CT 7 p.m. CT 2:30 p.m. CT TBA TBA

vs. Southern at Western Kentucky* at Kansas State vs. FIU* vs. ULL at UTSA* at Mississippi State

vs. Middle Tennessee*

at Rice* vs. North Texas* at UTEP* vs. Southern Miss*

VOLLEYBALL LA TECH INVITATIONAL 9/11 9/12

7 p.m. CT 10 a.m. CT 7 p.m. CT

9/18

10 a.m. CT 7 p.m. CT 10 a.m. CT

vs. ULM vs. Southern vs. Lamar

UCA TOURNAMENT

9/19

vs. Texas A&M - Corpus Christi

at Central Arkansas vs. Alabama State

Turkoly comes into the Lady Techster program with the potential to be a four year starter in center fielder.

The Sanger, Texas native batted .565 with 11 home runs and 43 RBI’s. Turkoly was also a twotime all-state player.

SOCCER 9/4 4 p.m. CT 9/6 1 p.m. CT 9/11 3 p.m. CT 9/13 1 p.m. CT 9/18 7 p.m. CT 9/20 1 p.m. CT 9/25 7 p.m. CT 9/27 1 p.m. CT 10/2 7 p.m. CT 10/4 5 p.m. CT 10/9 6 p.m. CT 10/11 12 p.m. CT 9/21 9/25 9/27 10/2 10/9 10/11 10/16 10/18 10/21 10/25 10/27 10/30 11/1 11/6

6 p.m. CT 7 p.m. CT 12 p.m. CT 7 p.m. CT 7 p.m. CT 1 p.m. CT 7 p.m. CT 1 p.m. CT 6 p.m. CT 1 p.m. CT 7 p.m. CT 7 p.m. CT 1 p.m. CT 6 p.m. CT

2 0 1 5

at Grambling vs. Nicholls State at Murray State at Arkansas State vs. Southern at Jackson State vs. Old Dominion* at Western Kentucky* at UAB* vs. Southern Miss* at Florida Atlantic* at FIU* vs. Southern Miss* at Western Kentucky* at Marshall* at Middle Tennessee* vs. North Texas* vs. UAB* at North Texas* at Southern Miss* at FIU* vs. Rice* vs. Grambling vs. Middle Tennessee* vs. Charlotte* at UTSA*

F A L L

S P O R T S

SCHEDULES 10/16 10/18 10/25 10/30

7 p.m. CT 1 p.m. CT 2 p.m. CT 7 p.m. CT

vs. UTEP* vs UTSA* at Middle Tennessee* vs. North Texas*

CONFERENCE USA TOURNAMENT

11/ 4, 6, 8 11/8 11/12 11/14

2 p.m. CT 6 p.m. CT 6 p.m. CT

DETAILS - TBA at UTEP* vs. FIU* vs. Florida Atlantic*

CONFERENCE USA TOURNAMENT

11/ 20, 21, 22

DETAILS - TBA

Home Game * Conference Game

SPORTS

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Fall 2015 • Bulldog Survival Guide • 15

Expectations high for Bulldog football BLAKE BOLIN News Editor| btb017@LaTech.edu Expectations have never been higher for Louisiana Tech football as the Bulldogs enter the 2015 football season coming off a Conference USA Western Division Championship and a Heart of Dallas Bowl victory over Illinois of the Big Ten. Picked to repeat as Conference USA West Division champions, LA Tech returns the majority of a potent offense and one of the best defensive backfields in college football.

What appeared to be Tech’s biggest loss may prove to be an upgrade as Florida transfer Jeff Driskel is set to take over for Cody Sokol under center. There will be no quarterback battle in Ruston, as head coach Skip Holtz has already named Driskel the starter for the Bulldogs opener against Southern on September 5.

Joining Driskel in the backfield will be one of the best in the business and a member of the 2015 Doak Walker Award Watch List, Kenneth Dixon. Dixon scored 28 touchdowns from scrimmage last season, which is the most of any returning player in college football.

The receiving corps is poised to be one of the best in C-USA as the Bulldogs return second team all-conference receiver Trent Taylor. Alongside Taylor will be deep threat Carlos Henderson, who burst onto the scene in 2014 and was named to the freshman allconference team.

The Bulldogs also return Paul

Photo by Tom Morris

Kenneth Dixon shakes off an Illini defender during the Heart of Dallas Bowl.

Turner, who had over 500 yards receiving last season. Marcus Gaines and Conner Smith are both expected to see increased roles in the receiving game.

Providing protection for Driskel and leading the way for Dixon will be the most experienced offensive line Tech fans have seen since 2012. The line is expected to feature all upperclassmen with three juniors and two seniors.

On the defensive side of the

ball, a new leader will be at the helm. Blake Baker was named the successor as the defensive coordinator to Manny Diaz, who took the same position at Mississippi State.

After spending a year under Diaz, there may not be a more aggressive defense in college football, as the scheme won’t change for a team that led the NCAA with 42 forced turnovers last season.

The defense will be led by a

dominant secondary, which paced the Bulldogs to an NCAA-leading 26 interceptions in 2014. The starstudded secondary features first team All-Conference USA safety, junior Xavier Woods. Woods was the only C-USA player named to the Bronko Nagurski Watch List, which is awarded to the best defender in the country.

Joining Woods in the secondary will be seniors Adairius Barnes, Kentrell Brice and Bryson

Abraham. Barnes and Woods were both recently named to the Jim Thorpe Watch List, which is awarded to the nation’s best defensive back.

Up front the Bulldogs return Vernon Butler, who was named to the Outland Trophy Watch List, which is awarded to the nation’s top interior defensive lineman.

The senior recorded 56 tackles in 2014, including 13.5 for a loss.

Vontarrius Dora will join Butler on the line after recording 6.5 tackles for a loss last season.

The biggest question facing the Bulldog defense is the linebacker position, where LA Tech will be forced to replace their top three linebackers from 2014.

Carlos Henderson will look to ignite the kickoff game again in 2015 for the Bulldogs. Henderson returned a kickoff for a touchdown and averaged 25 yards on kickoff returns in 2014.

After opening up with Southern, LA Tech travels to Bowling Green, Kentucky, to face off with WKU, which was picked to win the East Division in C-USA. The Bulldogs are prepared to go toe to toe with Power Five opponents Kansas State and Mississippi State. In their last meeting four years ago, Mississippi State needed overtime to put away a pesky Bulldog team that would go on to win the 2011 Western Athletic Conference Championship.

If the Bulldogs take care of business and grab a win in Manhattan, Kansas, or Starkville, Mississippi, LA Tech fans could be eyeing an access bowl in 2015.

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16 • Bulldog Survival Guide • Fall 2015

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