The Tech Talk 1.29.15 by The Tech Talk

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Aramark food services start online program

Dolly Hurtig received her award from Gregor Trumel, the consul General of France.

LACY CAMP Staff Reporter

Photo by Brian Blakely

Tech professor recognized by French government KAILEE COURTS Staff Reporter A Louisiana Tech professor received an award that has its roots in the rule of Emperor Napoleon of France. Dr. Dolliann “Dolly” Hurtig, an associate professor of modern language, received the title of “Chevalier dans l’Ordre des Palms Academiques de France,” an award bestowed by the government of France on exemplary educators Gregor Trumel, the Consul General of France, presented the award to Hurtig on Jan. 21. “Dr. Hurtig is a very prominent teacher,” he said. “It is an honor to present this award to her.” Hurtig has been a professor at Tech for 29 years, serves as a dual enrollment coordinator on the Tech campus and as moderator for the National French Honor Society, Pi Delta Phi. She is a book editor for the French version of Potpourri Louisianais and has recently edited and contributed to the book “Allons au cinema: Promoting French

VOLUME 89 • ISSUE 12

through films.” received a phone call where I was “This honor is given to some- told I had got it.” one for their outstanding work in Hurtig said she fell in love with promoting the French language the French language when she and culture,” Trumel was 5 years old and said. has loved studying the “Dr. Hurtig has Trumel said this is language and visiting one of the highest- worked very France. ranked awards in hard to earn it. She thanked her France and is very She has done an friends and family at exclusive. the ceremony for be“Dr. Hurtig has excellent job of ing supportive of evworked very hard to promoting the erything she has done. earn it,” he said. “She language.” Bob Hurtig, Dolly has done an excellent Hurtig’s father, said job of promoting the GREGOR TRUMEL watching his daughter language.” receive this award was Consul general of France Hurtig said the one of the proudest whole process of apmoments in his life. plying for the award “I have attended all and waiting for the results took 15 of Dolly’s award ceremonies,” he months. said. “I am very proud of her for “The award is very difficult to receiving this award.” attain,” she said. “I sent in four difHurtig said she was thrilled to ferent letters of recommendation receive this award. when they only ask for two.” “I have worked hard all of my Hurtig said the application and life,” she said. “I am blessed to have letters are then sent to the Minis- been able to receive this award ter of Education in France for re- from the country of France.” view. “I found out in October that I Email comments to received the award,” she said. “I kec029@latech.edu.

Over the past few years, Louisiana Tech students had to manage meal plans in person, but now students have another option. Through Aramark, the company that manages food services at Tech, students can now use Tech’s campus dining website. “When I came here about a year and a half ago, there was no online system,” Jessica Pratt, an Aramark marketing “My No. 1 manager, said. “Other schools have priority was been doing online systems for at least a couple of years, so when I and is to bring came in as marketing manager that students convewas something that I thought was nience which really important and that we need- they did not ed to try to get as fast as possible.” have.” Pratt said students can sign up for meal plans for future quarters JESSICA PRATT marketing and manage their declining bal- Aramark manager ance online instead of going to the Tech Express office. “It’s a very technological world for students, so we need to be on board with that,” Pratt said. “I do think the number of people going to the Tech Express office to sign up for meal plans will decrease a little bit, but students don’t want to walk somewhere, even if it is 50 feet. They want to sign up quickly and easily and use something that doesn’t take up too much time for them.” With the online option now available, she said students have already begun signing up and managing their declining balance online. “We are getting more and more students as the word gets further out,” Pratt said. “Because it is a college, it takes a while for the word to travel to almost every student.” Although the online management of food services is in effect, students and parents can still manage meal plans and declining balance in person. “Parents still enjoy face-to-face interaction and some students do, too,” Pratt said. “So the Tech Express office is still absolutely necessary for that reason.” Pratt said people who are possibly skeptical about the new program have nothing to worry about. “Louisiana Tech and Aramark would not endorse anything that isn’t absolutely 100 percent safe and reliable,” Pratt said. “We ran pilot programs and Aramark had us run through it to make sure it was reliable, safe and workable for students.” In order to get the program going, Pratt said it took a long process. “It took at least a six-month process,” Pratt said. “We had to make sure everybody at Aramark and Tech were on board with the idea.” With students now able to use the Internet as an option for management, Pratt said she hopes her number one priority comes to life. “My No. 1 priority was and is to bring students convenience which they did not have,” Pratt said. “I think it’s important that we are a university that is represented as a unit that is ahead of the game so I think that we are doing that here with this program and that we are continuously looking for ways to provide to our students.”

Email comments to lmc074@latech.edu.

NEWS

2 • The Tech Talk • January 29, 2015

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Beards break bank for BCM CATHERINE BURKE Staff Reporter Sixteen male members of the BCM have worked for months to grow out their beards for the BCM’s annual beard auction held on Jan. 20. The bidding started at $50 and beards were sold for anywhere from $100-$850. Meleah Nunn, said the event has been going on for more years than she can remember. “Every year it’s always a big hit,” said Nunn, a BCM volunteer. “People are just really entertained by it and it’s a lot of fun to watch.” Nunn said the men’s beards look much different after being shaved than they do before. “Whoever wins the bidding on a certain beard gets to shave whatever they want into it,” she said. “Some people just shave it completely off, some get a little crazy with designs.” Nunn said the money raised goes toward a good cause. “All the money from the biddings goes toward our members who are looking to go on mission trips this upcoming summer,” she said. “The funds from auctions like this really make things happen for our members.”

RIGHT: Brandon Bowles’s beard fetched over $800 at the BCM auction. BOTTOM: Tyler Scroggs has a heart shaved into his beard by Corey Zimmerman, a senior communication major.

Scott Felder, a sophomore mechanical engineering major, was a participant in the auction. “I haven’t fully shaved since June,” he said, “I’ve touched it up a bit, but not since October.” Felder said he was looking forward to participating in the auction. “I really wanted to do it last year but something came up and I didn’t,” he said. “I saw last year how much money it raised and wanted to be a part of it and help out such a good cause.” Tyler Cloud said he participated in the auction to help contribute to those looking to go on mission trips. “I’ve been growing my beard out for about three months,” said Cloud, a freshman wildlife habitat management major. “I just wanted to help raise money for mission work and help spread the word of God to where ever and whom ever we can.” The beard that earned the most belonged to Brandon Bowles, a senior mechanical engineering major. His beard went for $850. The auction raised a grand total of $4,455.

Email comments to cjb066@latech.edu.

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Congratulations! Casey Chaudoir & Hannah Francis Phi Mu OSLs 2015

UPCOMING EVENTS FRIDAY • Theater Department to show The Last Night of Ballyhoo at 7:30 p.m. • Opening night of Contemporary Perspectives in Photography from 6-9 p.m.

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

• Bulldog’s will host Marshall at 4:30 p.m.

• No calendar events

•The 8th annual Shakespeare festival will be held in the courtyard of GTM from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m.

• Bulldogs’ will host Western Kentucky at 6 p.m.

• Theater Department to show The Last Night of Ballyhoo at 7:30 p.m.

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NEWS

January 29, 2015 • The Tech Talk • 3

Tech fraternity honored for philanthropy KAILEE COURTS Staff Reporter While most college fraternities are known for partying, the Louisiana Tech chapter of Kappa Alpha is being recognized for their philanthropy. Garrett Anderson, the Kappa Alpha president, said the chapter received the award at an annual conference. “The award was given to the top 10 chapters in the nation who raised the most money for MDA (the Muscular Dystrophy Association),” he said. “We are honored to have been able to be recognized for this.” Anderson, a junior political science major, said MDA and Kappa Alpha have been working together for over 40 years. MDA is a nonprofit agency dedicated to finding treatments and cures for muscular dystrophy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and other neuromuscular diseases Austin Bowden, a sophomore finance major, said the money raised goes to research and treatment. “The Muscular Dystrophy Association helps families with the cost of treatments, medical equipment and helps send kids to summer camp,” he said. Bowden said the money also goes to support group sessions for families and professional fees when someone is diagnosed. “The families do not have to pay any of the money back,” he said. “I love that we can help with the expenses so families do not have to worry about it.” Kappa Alpha puts on various events throughout the year to raise money for MDA. David Alexander, a sophomore business major, said the biggest event is a Seesaw-aThon held in the spring. “This event lasts 72 hours and it brings in a lot of money,” he said. “There is always someone sitting on the seesaw and we just ask for donations.” Alexander said over $3,000 was made at

Photo by Colin Fontenot

From left to right: Garrett Anderson, David Alexander and Austin Bowden, members of the Louisiana Tech chapter of Kappa Alpha, pose with an award for being named a top fundraiser for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. the event last year. “We also partner with Chili’s where they give out coupons and a portion of the bill will go to MDA,” he said. There are also local businesses that donate money in the chapter’s name. “We work with an insurance agency who donates money and we scoop ice cream at the Peach Festival,” Anderson said. “We love the community involvement in raising

Reneau to be inducted into athletics hall of fame JARED KING Sports Editor

ees for State Colleges and Universities selected Reneau as the 13th president of Tech. He is the longest tenured president Louisiana Tech President Emeritus in the history of Tech, having served from Daniel Reneau will become the newest 1987 to 2013. member of the Tech Athletics Hall of Tech Athletics Director Tommy McFame on Saturday. Clelland said Reneau’s commitment to Prior to the men’s basketathletics was fundamental ball contest against Conferfor Tech’s advancement acaence USA opponent Mardemically and athletically. shall, Tech will honor Reneau “Although I did not have as the 88th member of the the privilege of serving durLouisiana Tech Athletics Hall ing Reneau’s tenure at Tech, of Fame during an induction I understand and appreciate ceremony that is scheduled the commitment his adminfor 3 p.m. in the Waggoner istration made towards the Room of the Thomas Asathletics department,” Mcsembly Center. The ceremoClelland said. “It’s vital to ny is open to the public. the success of any athletic In 2013 the Louisiana Tech department the university Athletics Hall of Fame Compresident be as supportive mittee voted to induct a fiveas their resources allow. So member class every other many great things were acyear. The next five-member complished in Tech athletics RENEAU class will be inducted in the during Reneau’s time leading fall of this year. The committhe university. This is a very tee also decided that in alternate years, deserving honor.” either a team or a significant individual During Reneau’s presidency, Tech (non-athlete) would be inducted into the made the move from the Football ChamTech Athletics Hall of Fame. pionship Subdivision (formerly known as Current Tech President Les Guice said I-AA) to the Football Bowl Subdivision Reneau is more than deserving of this leading to more national exposure for the special honor. Bulldog football program. Tech also con“During his tenure as president, Dr. Re- tinued to make strides on the conference neau led one of the most transformative level, joining the American South (1987periods in the history of Tech athletics,” 1991), Sun Belt (1991-2001), Western Guice said. “His vision and leadership Athletic (2001-2013) and ultimately Conhelped position Tech to compete nation- ference USA (July 1, 2013). ally while also providing our student-athOn the playing fields, Tech teams letes with a first-rate education and col- won 68 conference titles and made 42 lege experience. The growth and success postseason appearances, while the Lady that (Tech’s) athletics programs have en- Techster basketball team won the 1988 joyed over the past few years are rooted in NCAA national title. Hundreds of Tech the decisions that Reneau made on their athletes won state, conference, regional behalf. I congratulate him on his induction and national honors both academically into the Tech Athletics Hall of Fame and and athletically. thank him for all he has done to elevate (Tech’s) programs and student-athletes.” Email comments to On Feb. 20, 1987, the Board of Trust- jki008@latech.edu

money, as well.” He said at the conference he attended Kappa Alphas from around the nation were shown what all the money that is raised goes to. “It was really cool seeing the breakdown of what the money we raise goes to,” Anderson said. “Some of the things are very expensive and it is great that we can help in any way.”

He said he is glad he can work with his Kappa Alpha brothers to raise money for MDA. “It truly is an awesome organization,” Anderson said. “I am glad we can have fun and raise money for such an awesome cause.”

Email comments to kec029@latech.edu.

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4 • The Tech Talk • January 29, 2015

Insight The

TechTalk

A response to Joe Bleich

MANAGEMENT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF John Sadler

MANAGING EDITOR Cody Sexton

NEWS EDITOR

Ray Patterson

ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Cody Sexton

FEATURE EDITOR

Kelsy Kershaw

MULTIMEDIA EDITOR

Wynnifred Sanders

ASSOCIATE MULTIMEDIA EDITOR Ellie Moslander

PHOTO EDITOR

Deepanjan Mukhopadhyay

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Jaclyn Perry Colin Fontenot Devin Dronett Carter Carroll Brian Blakely

ADVERTISING MANAGER Taylor Loftin

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Dr. Reginald Owens

ADVISER/PRODUCTION MANAGER Michael LeBlanc

ADVERTISING PRODUCTION Michael LeBlanc

DEPARTMENT HEAD

JOHN SADLER Editor-In-Chief

ast Sunday, the Ruston Daily Leader ran a column by Joe Bleich, an attorney and former state supreme court judge, titled “Declining days of our society?” The article concerned itself with the degradation, and maybe even disintegration, of our society that would be caused by enacting laws to allow gay marriage. Articles like these lend themselves better to stammered exclamations of disbelief than actual attempts to refute them, but I’ll give it a try anyway. At the beginning of the column, Bleich writes, “I do not attempt to proselytize my religious beliefs.” Opposition to gay rights has its foundations firmly rooted in the Abrahamic religions. Saying you are not proselytizing religious beliefs while touting a very obviously Christian belief is a little contradictory. He then goes on to claim the main reason for the fall of the ancient Roman Empire was their propensity for sexual debauchery. There are many theories as to

Dr. Reginald Owens

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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, 139 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.

how the Roman Empire fell, and, admittedly, moral decay is one of them. It was first suggested by Edward Gibbon in his book “The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire.” Interestingly enough, Gibbon’s reason for the fall was that Christianity and the promise of the afterlife distracted Romans from the day-to-day running of their empire. Gibbon’s theory is disputed, however. Other theories on causes of the fall include environmental degradation, mass lead poisoning, lack of farmland and too large of a population. Others think Rome never truly fell, it simply transformed into a different body politic over the centuries. Regardless of which theory you would like to believe, gay people had nothing to do with the fall of Rome. A statement, which, actually, Bleich only hints at. He brings up the sexual abuses wrought on the citizens by their government and the Bacchanalian religious rites popular in Rome. He then writes,“I do not suggest that we have gone quite that far.” Then there is no reason to bring

it up! Linking gay marriage to political and religious abuses that lay in traditions more than 2,000 years old is sensationalistic to the point of ridiculousness. I am sure the 9 million gay Americans who simply want to be with the person they love would have an issue with that comparison. He ends his column by bringing up the Merriam-Webster definition of marriage, in which one of the definitions is “the state of being united to a person of the same sex in a relationship like that of a traditional marriage.” He focuses on that “like” with laser-like intensity. He then says if cats are like dogs, then couldn’t people just buy cat food for their dogs? The answer is no, by the way. It disappointed me something like this would be published in Ruston. I thought maybe we were growing past these knee-jerk reactions rooted in ignorance of the topic. I was wrong. John Sadler is a junior journalism major from Extension who serves as editor for The Tech Talk. Email comments to jts040@latech.edu.

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The Bottom Line

FROM THE EDITOR

Practice what we preach KELSY KERSHAW Features Editor

am a feminist. I believe in gender equality. I believe in being beautiful and being intelligent, but I do not believe in exploiting those values for recognition. On Sunday, the annual Miss Universe competition took place featuring 89 contestants. Paulina Vega, Miss Colombia, was crowned Miss Universe 2015 following a less than stellar answer to her on-stage question. She was asked by judge Rob Dyrdek, “Probably all of the time people have asked you, what can men learn from women, but I would like to know what can women learn from men?” She said something along the lines of, “Men who believe in equality should be followed by women.” Even though she did not really answer the question, she propagated a good point. Some feminists were put off by

this question, although I am not completely sure why. The question itself does not degrade women or depict us as inferior, but it could be argued that the entire competition delineates women negatively. I am aware of the scholarships awarded to these extraordinarily beautiful titleholders, but it does not eliminate the objectification stemmed in these competitions. Women are awarded money for parading on stage in a formal gown (that would take a student loan to pay for), a bikini (that is supposed to be representative of a healthy lifestyle) and they must perform a talent (to perfection to avoid humiliation); not to forget the on-stage question, philanthropic platform and preliminary interview, all set in place to showcase beauty, intelligence and service. During performance in all of these categories, women are being dehumanized and exscinded, while a panel of judges analyzes their flaws

to determine who is more perfect. Why is it that we encourage young girls to be confident, and unconcerned for their physical appearance because it is said that personality that matters, if we are going to allow them to witness young adults winning monetary prizes in the disguise of scholarships for doing exactly that? A professor from Florida International University, this year’s host for Miss Universe, said we need to “unlearn the messages sent about women by society…that they are not to be judged by their looks and that it is fine to treat them as objects for men’s fantasies.” The feminist issue does not lie in Dyrdek’s question, but in the event in which his question was asked. If we are going to preach it, we need to teach it. Kelsy Kershaw is a senior journalism and fashion merchandising and retail studies major from Jennings Email comments to kjk016@latech.edu.

JUST DO IT Cheaters never win – except when they do. JARED KING Sports Editor

orrect me if I am wrong, but I believe there is an important NFL game being played this weekend. What was it again? Do not feel bad if you forgot about it too. It seems like there has been little to no coverage of the actual game because of the “Deflategate” debacle, which if anyone is keeping score, occurred almost two weeks ago now. You see, the New England Patriots simply cannot win fair-andsquare, that would be against everything Patriots head coach Bill Belichick stands for. By now you are probably aware that NFL footballs must be pressurized to a certain level of air pressure to be eligible to be used during an NFL contest. And by now, you are probably aware the footballs New England used in its game against the Indianapolis Colts in the American

Football Conference Championship game were not inflated to the proper levels. Now let us all stand back and watch as the NFL and Commissioner Roger Goodell do nothing about this situation until after the Super Bowl has been played. Of course, this would not be the first time the Patriots played in the largest spectacle of American sports while under a cloud of media scrutiny. In 2007 the league disciplined the Patriots for videotaping New York Jets’ defensive coaches’ signals from the sidelines. In 2008, Matt Walsh, a video assistant for the Patriots in 2001 who was fired after the team’s 2002 season, sent eight videotapes containing opponents’ coaches’ signals from the 2000 through 2002 seasons to Roger Goodell for review. “Spygate” – as the controversy was eloquently termed – was a clear violation of NFL rules and both the New England Patriots organization and Belichick were

penalized for their roles in the incident. Neither the team nor Belichick have been penalized for their roles in “Deflategate” as the Patriots’ most recent controversy has been coined. Belichick has been adamant in saying he had no knowledge of the illegal level of air in the footballs used during the AFC Championship game. This should come as no surprise because Belichick also clung to that notion when he was caught stealing opposing teams’ signals during the “Spygate” scandal. “Deflategate” is unfortunate for the game of football because it has taken the country’s attention off of the grand spectacle that is the Super Bowl and placed it on 11 semideflated footballs used more than 10 days ago. Jared King is a senior journalism and marketing major from Jena who serves as sports editor for The Tech Talk. Email comments to jki008@latech.edu.

Are you a ‘nomo?’ Addiction. The noun is defined as “the state of being enslaved to a habit or practice or to something that is psychologically or physically habitforming, as narcotics, to such an extent that its cessation causes severe trauma.” Most of us have an understanding of this term. And, many have been affected by addiction in one form or the other. Today, research is suggesting there may be an addiction to smartphones. A study conducted by Leslie Perlow, Ph.D. and Konosuke Matsushita Professor of Leadership in the Organizational Behavior area at the Harvard Business School found that 70 percent of smartphone users check their phone within an hour of waking up. This has lead to a new phobia — nomophobia, the fear of being without one’s mobile phone. It comes off as being a bit of a stretch to label this an “addiction,” especially when comparing alcohol, drugs or gambling addictions to something as seemingly frivolous as a smartphone. It would almost be pathetic in a sense to think of society going through withdrawals if they didn’t have a phone in their hand. But, this is what research is suggesting, even if all we have is a limited sample size. If a person checks his or her phone around 150 times per day, like the research states, then what else could we call this but an addiction? Habit seems too light of a label in this instance. The problem may be that society has grown accustomed to always be connected. This could lead to a distortion in social interaction. Today, it seems as if people are infatuated with smartphones and social media, and these people are disconnecting from real people in favor of digital communication. The youth of today might be more inclined to text someone instead of calling them. So, it isn’t just taking away from face-to-face interaction, it is moving conversation toward a new medium. There is also data showing it might be dangerous or even fatal to use smartphones as much as some have grown accustomed to. The United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration saw an eight percent increase in the number of pedestrians killed between 2009-2011 due to what was labeled “distracted walking,” — walking while texting, reading or listening to music. At the end of the day, one could fall on either side of the fence with this issue. Is it an addiction or simply the new era of digitized communication? And, we all know we aren’t exclusively using our phones for communicating, either. We use them to wake us up, to keep us asleep, to tell us how many calories we’ve consumed, to watch movie previews and to buy airplane tickets. Can we say it is normal to rely on our phones for everything? The advantages are clear and ever-present, but the problem appears when one cannot step away from his or her phone. The rise of the smartphone is advantageous, for reasons too numerous to list in such a confined space. But, there is a time and a place for it.

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Arts Entertainment

January 29, 2015 • The Tech Talk • 5

NPR pianist performs at Tech Christopher O’Riley combined classical and modern music with his performance

Photos by Brian Blakely

Known for his show “From the Top” on National Public Radio, Christopher O’Riley started to incorporate his love for playing the piano into his show. During his performance in Howard Auditorium, O’Riley performed a diverse range of pieces from popular bands like Nirvana, Black Sabbath, Radiohead and the Smiths. Information collected by Michael Hoge

‘Freak Show’ says ‘auf Wiedersehen’ to star and taste Desiree (Angela Bassett) and the conjoined twins, Bette and Dot (Sarah Paulson). Not long after the massaThe freaks of “American cre, Jimmy (Evan Peters), reHorror Story: Freak Show” turns to the camp to find his took their final bow in the fifamily slaughtered. Reunited nale of the show’s fourth seawith Desiree, the two set out son Wednesto rescue the twins who have day, Jan. 21. been kidnapped and forced Excuse TELEVISION into a shotgun wedding with the untimeliDandy. In an all-too-easy resness of the cue, the show’s last remainfinale review. ing freaks enact vengeance I had to catch in a completely anti-climactic up on the four way which, to quote the illepisodes leading up to it due fated Dandy, was “boring.” to a complete lack of desire 20th Century Fox Television Across the country in to follow this season. American Horror Story: Hollywood, Elsa is stalking It is no secret the latest Freak Show network executives and slapseason of Ryan Murphy’s ping secretaries in an attempt HHIII anthology horror series failed to become the star her selfto live up to the hype it promoted. But, at this point, it’s our own fault for important ego believes she is destined to be. A scene I would not be surprised to learn was falling for his lies. No stranger to disappointment, the fans inspired by actual events of Lange’s life. One thing Lange has in common with of “American Horror Story” had just gotten the terrible taste of the show’s third season, her “Freak Show” counterpart is late-in-life “Coven,” out of their mouths when Murphy recognition. Since the show’s beginning, she served up a season as bitter as bank lobby has become a household name, or at least a prominent one in college dorms and gay bars. coffee. Granted, she is an icon in close step with For those who might eventually return to watching “Freak Show” when it makes its Meryl Streep, but Lange owes all of her curway to Netflix, be forewarned, the following rent success to “American Horror Story.” A seemingly delightful person whose elegance includes spoilers. After Elsa Mars (played by Jessica Lange) is a constant reminder of the grace of old makes her way to Hollywood, having escaped Hollywood, it pains me to criticize her. Howfrom her freaks who planned to kill her to ever, Murphy is to blame. If there is one thing avenge the death of Ethel (Kathy Bates), she he is known for, it’s getting lazy with his work. leaves them in the legal care of Dandy (Finn (For further examples watch the later seasons of “Glee” or “Nip/Tuck.”) Wittrock). Maybe Murphy is aware of his tendency Dandy, the show’s breakout star of the season, quickly learns just because he is the to take great ideas with amazing potential and product of incest who jumped on the serial burn them out too quickly, which is why he is killer bandwagon, he is not really a real freak already working on another anthology, “Amertalented enough to fill the tent with spectators. ican Crime Story.” This new installment will After a less than warm welcome from his recount famous crimes in American with the charges, Dandy goes on a killing spree, the first season focusing on the O.J. Simpson trial. Elsa finds her fame by way of vice-presilikes of which “American Horror Story” has dent of casting for WBN, Michael Beck (Danot seen in some time. Where “Coven” was afraid to kill any of vid Burtka) and she is instantly lifted to starits characters so as to not be bothered with dom with her own variety show, hit records having to introduce new ones, “Freak Show” and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Of course it does not take long for the was the complete antithesis. After throwing punches with Amazon Eve (Erika Ervin), Dan- sins of her past to come to haunt and humble dy kills every freak left at the camp except for her newfound diva status. Once her network CODY SEXTON Managing Editor

Photo courtesy of YouTube

Elsa Mars (played by Jessica Lange) singing David Bowie’s “Life on Mars” in her show. finds out about the German snuff film that left her without the lower part of both legs, she is given her pink slip. It is in that moment Elsa concedes to the demands of her boss to perform a Halloween special, something she adamantly refused to do beforehand as it is bad luck for a freak to perform on Halloween. Knowing her future holds little for her, Elsa takes the stage on Halloween night only to be greeted by the ghost of Edward Mordrake (Wes Bently), who has come to kill her for performing another mediocre cover of a David Bowie song that could only be described as not terrible. As Elsa belts “Heroes” in her thick German accent and says “auf Wiedersehen” to the mortal world, the survivors of her former freak show watch on TV from the comfort of their own new lives. Desiree has a husband and children and Jimmy has married the Bette half of the conjoined twins, both of whom are pregnant. While seeing Jimmy and Bette (and technically Dot) happily married, it feels halfheartedly thrown together. Like Ted and Robin from “How I Met Your Mother.” You want them together at the beginning of the show, but as it goes own, interest is lost in their love story and seeing them together in the end does not feel organic. While the finale lacked luster for the show,

fans just have to remember the season was, in all honesty, not that great anyway. But when observed from a larger point of view, it served as an appropriate send off for Lange, who is not reported to return to the show for the fifth season. After Elsa’s swan song, she awakens in what could best be described as her heaven. She is reunited with her freaks in their old tent where she is set to perform in front of a full house for the rest of eternity. Though Elsa got her happy ending, “American Horror Story” fans did not. What should have been a perfect project for Murphy to combine his talent for grandiose stage performances like in “Glee” and grotesque body mutations as seen in “Nip/Tuck,” the season was a bigger disappointment than “Coven.” “Freak Show’s” final episodes were not even worth watching to look for clues about next season’s theme. Even the desperate attempt to tie the seasons together by introducing characters from “Asylum” were a transparent attempt to mix things up and a failure. At this point, no Easter eggs were needed to know what theme will be scary enough for the next season. It will simply have to be named “American Horror Story: Season 5.”

Email comments to cls068@latech.edu.

6 • The Tech Talk • January 29, 2015

World W&NBRIEFS WORLDNEWS New York Russian spy ring charged NEW YORK (AP) — Three Russian citizens were charged Monday in connection with a Cold Warstyle Russian spy ring that spoke in code, passed messages concealed in bags and magazines, and tried to recruit people with ties to an unnamed New York City university, authorities said.

Mubarak’s sons released Monday CAIRO (AP) — In a sign of confidence by a tough Egyptian government, Hosni Mubarak’s two sons were freed Monday after almost four years in prison, following a weekend marked by a spate of protester killings by an increasingly heavy-handed police force.

Border protection assists Super Bowl GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Black Hawk helicopters and truck-sized X-ray machines that are typically deployed along the U.S.Mexico border have been brought to the Super Bowl venue to assist with the security effort. U.S. Customs and Border Protection showed off the technology Monday as it helps with Super Bowl security.

E-cigarettes health threat in California SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — California health officials on Wednesday declared electronic cigarettes a health threat that should be strictly regulated like tobacco products, joining other states and health advocates across the U.S. in pushing back against the fast-growing device.

STATENEWS Irish police officer shot during visit NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Officials say an Irish police officer on vacation in New Orleans was shot by an armed robber, becoming one of the latest victims in a string of shootings putting the city on edge as it gets ready to kick off Carnival festivities.

GSU could lose nursing program NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Amid falling oil prices, a South Africa-based energy company is delaying final plans for a $14 billion gas-toliquid plant in Louisiana.

Nation

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Tech responds to free college ELLIE MOSLANDER Associate Multimedia Editor President Barack Obama recently proposed to make community college free, and many people throughout the country have responded with mixed opinions on the issue. Louisiana Tech students have also voiced their opinions on the idea with many reasons on how it would affect the country and future generations. Colby Ashley, a sophomore kinesiology major, believes the plan is not a bad idea but is concerned it is not a great idea for our country in this time of debt. “I think this plan is great in theory,” he said. “To put someone through community college for free would be a blessing. However, my question is, where would the money come from?” Ashley said the money could come from many places such as more taxes from the working class and cutting welfare funding. “My true opinion is that if someone is dedicated enough to go to college, then they will work their butts off to afford it on their own,” he said. “If someone is handed a free ride, they won’t appreciate it as much and not be as passionate about it.” Obama is proposing a $60 billion plan to make the first two years of community or technical college free, according to AP. The savings plans will help students pay for school. Ryan Gilbert, a senior mechanical engineering major, thinks free community college would benefit students and help more people take advantage of the college experience. “The students who are not able to pay for college right out of high school (based on grades, money, or any other circumstance) will be allowed to take the extra step to improve their living status,” he said. “Those who want a degree from a university would be allowed to take all the general courses at a community college and then graduate within three years at most universities.” Gilbert said this will increase enrollment because of the price, will ease the transition between high school and college, will decrease student loans. He said this will help lessen stress on students during school. They will be able to focus on classes more and ultimately,

AP Photo/Idaho Statesman, Kyle Green

Obama speaks to a capacity crowd at Boise State University during a visit to Boise, Idaho, on Wednesday.

after college, find jobs easier. “I feel like it’s a good idea overall,” he said. “Education should be free or at least cost less. A country more invested in education will eventually have fewer issues. The main problem may come when everyone is looking for a similar job. More people graduating means more competition in the field of study.” Nick Smith believes Obama’s proposal is nothing but talk. “Though he created the conversation, it ended soon thereafter since the GOP controls both chambers,” Smith said, a junior political science and speech communication major. “The proposal is ideal because it modernizes America. Sadly, we’re far behind our allies in many terms, especially education.” Smith said Americans place less value on education as indicated by recent cuts in education budgets. He said even if college becomes

free, this does not mean more people will attend. “Subsidizing education just incentivizes more individuals to enroll, but in no way does it mean that there will be an overflow, he said. “An educated and skilled workforce will benefit society as a whole.” The president’s plan for expanding the $2,500 tax credit for college expenses would make it available to families with incomes up to $180,000 a year, according to AP. The amount of credit would grow with inflation, and students could use it for up to five years, as long as they are attending school at least part-time. Currently, students can only receive the credit for four years. The Associated Press contributed to this story.

Email comments to emo012@latech.edu.

U.S. and Cuba to move toward embassies, but long path ahead ASSOCIATED PRESS HAVANA (AP) — The United States and Cuba last week set a detailed agenda for re-establishing full diplomatic ties, but said it could take weeks just to schedule the next round of talks, a sign of the long road ahead after more than a half-century of tension. Roberta Jacobson, the top U.S. diplomat for Latin America and the most senior American official to visit the island country in more than three decades, said the second day of wide-ranging talks in Havana were “positive and productive,” focusing on the mechanics of converting interest sections in each other’s capitals into full-fledged embassies headed by ambassadors. Josefina Vidal, her Cuban counterpart, also praised the dialogue. Both officials, however, outlined the obstacles to making a U.S.-Cuban relationship like that between any two other countries. Jacobson spoke of America’s persistent human rights concerns in Cuba. Vidal cited Cuba’s status on the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism and the various financial restrictions imposed on the coun-

weeks, she said, the U.S. and Cuba will schedule a second round of talks, which may or may not be the time to finalize an agreement. Issues on Thursday’s agenda included ending caps on staff, limits on diplomats’ movements and, in the case of the U.S. building, removing guard posts and other Cuban structures along the perimeter. Deep disagreements remain over matters such as immigration and human rights. In a sign of the difficulty surrounding the rights issue, Jacobson said the U.S. had raised it in a morning meeting; Vidal said it had not come up. Gustavo Machin, Cuba’s deputy chief of North American affairs, later said the delegations AP Photo/Ramon Espinosa spent time in an afternoon session discussing U.S. human rights Assistant Secretary of State of the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Af- problems. fairs Roberta S. Jacobson gives a press briefing in Havana, Cuba. They also talked about U.S. rules to allow greater telecomtry as a result of the U.S. trade em- and said embassies by themselves munications exports to Cuba, bargo. would not constitute normalized Machin said. “We have to overcome more ties between the U.S. and Cuba, as The need for at least one future than 50 years of a relationship that envisioned by Presidents Barack round of talks could set back U.S. was not based on confidence or Obama and Raul Castro when hopes of reopening the embassies trust,” Jacobson told reporters. they announced their historic de- before April’s Summit of the AmerShe cited “profound differences” tente. “It was a first meeting. This icas, which Obama and Castro are separating the two governments is a process,” Vidal said. In the next expected to attend.

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January 29, 2015 • The Tech Talk • 7

Distractions WEEKLYHOROSCOPE www.horoscopes.com.net

Aries March 21 – April 19 An unexpected problem with a task you’re trying to finish could cause a temporary upset between you and those closest to you, Aries. This might have your family stomping out of the house in anger. Remember that everybody has their own concerns, and probably wouldn’t have reacted this way otherwise. Finish what you have to do and patch things up later. All should be well. Taurus Apr 20 - May 20 An upsetting dream about someone you love deeply could cause you to awaken suddenly in the night, Taurus. You might have to ground yourself a little in reality before trying to go back to sleep. Stay calm. The dream isn’t prophetic. It probably relates to your own fears about this person, or maybe even about yourself. Wait until morning and write down the dream. The meaning should clarify by then. Gemini May 21 - Jun 20 A misunderstanding with a family member or partner could mar your morning, Gemini. One of you is less communicative than usual. It might take some effort to bring the issues into the open and work them out. They probably seem more serious than they are. Both you and the other person are apt to be stressed out and a little on edge. Cut yourselves some slack. Cancer Jun 21 - Jul 22 This might be the perfect day to go out, Cancer, or stay in and turn off the phone. Friends and relatives could be stressed, and phone conversations could touch off some misunderstandings and cause unnecessary hurt feelings. If you must talk to people, keep the conversations light and brief. You won’t want to mar a nearly perfect day. Leo Jul 23 - Aug 22 Recent stress could leave you wanting to spend the day shopping for items that may be nice but aren’t really necessary, Leo. This is fine, since you may want to spruce up your surroundings. Take care you don’t go overboard, and be careful not to take home something that you wouldn’t normally go for. You don’t want to have to return an unwanted object to the store. Virgo Aug 23 - Sep 22 Uninvited visitors could cause some stress, Virgo. You wanted to spend your day resting, but now you have to entertain people, and this could prove irritating. It’s better to keep the visit short and sweet than feel obligated to play host when you aren’t up to it. You will

want to stay on good terms with your guests. Be polite but firm and then relax. Libra Sep 23 - Oct 22 Some callous words spoken carelessly could make you feel hurt and insecure, Libra. They may not have been intentional, but even so, bear in mind that they’re only words. They tell you far more about the one who said them than they do about you. Spend the evening with people who love and respect you. You mirror the best in them, and that’s why they enjoy your company. Scorpio Oct 23 - Nov 21 Attempts to attend a festival, party, or other group activity could be hampered by minor obstacles like traffic jams, forgetting things, and getting lost, Scorpio. This can be frustrating and irritating, but don’t let it stop you. It’s important to be out with your friends today. Fill up the car, get a good map, and make your way to the place by the side streets. Have some fun! Sagittarius Nov 22 - Dec 21 Some friends may put you in front of a lot of people, Sagittarius, perhaps to make an impromptu speech or lead a discussion. Generally, you don’t mind this, but today you’re in a quiet mood and would rather stay on the sidelines. You could grit your teeth and do what they ask. But don’t be afraid to tell your friends how you feel. They don’t really want to make you uncomfortable. Capricorn Dec 22 - Jan 19 Someone who’s a little belligerent and abrasive could interrupt the flow of ideas at a class or workshop dedicated to spiritual and metaphysical concepts and values. This won’t sit well with you, Capricorn, but you aren’t the type to be confrontational. Don’t worry. Let the person have his or her say, then let everyone else debate. Enjoy yourself and learn from all the ideas. Aquarius Jan 20 - Feb 18 An upset between you and a friend might cause you to wonder what you did wrong, Aquarius. Chances are you were just in the wrong place at the wrong time. Your friend may have money problems and be too embarrassed to talk about it. Wait a few days and call again to see how things are. Your friend will feel more like talking, and all should be OK between you.

CROSSWORDPUZZLE

www.bestcrosswords.com 65. Narrow groove 66. “Stay” singer Lisa

Across 1. Tooth 5. Fountain treats 10. Friends 14. Songwriter Jacques 15. 24 sheets of paper 16. Lotion additive 17. ___-European 18. Clumsy 20. Ruin 22. Mexican revolutionist 23. Fit to be eaten 25. Straits of Juan de ____ 26. Attractive route 27. ___ Lingus 28. ___ II (razor brand) 32. Ruffian 33. Blackjack request 35. ____ Grey, tea type 36. Summer Games org. 37. Actor Erwin 38. 6, on a phone 39. Hammer end 41. Capital of Egypt 43. Feds 44. Icelandic epic 45. Rocker Ocasek 46. “Honor Thy Father” author 48. Prepared to drive 50. Capacitance units 51. ___ rasa 54. Dig find 55. Capital of Pennsylvania 57. Image 61. Met highlight 62. Varnish resin 63. First-class 64. Winder for holding flexible material

Down 1. Law enforcement agency 2. Prince Valiant’s son 3. Actor Beatty 4. Incandescent 5. Squash 6. Pound part 7. Flat circular plate 8. Vessel built by Noah 9. An instance of seizing 10. Examine by touch 11. ___ Romeo 12. Boor 13. Actress Ward 19. Fond du ___ 21. Slugger’s stat 23. Reverberated 24. Confounded 25. Thighbone 26. Michael of R.E.M. 27. Room at the top 29. Battered 30. “Gunsmoke” star 31. Duplicate 34. Let me repeat... 40. Chemical.free 41. Folds 42. Earache 43. Icy 47. Jackie’s second 49. Certain Ivy Leaguer 50. Physicist Enrico 51. ___ she blows! 52. Swiss river 53. Cracker topper 54. Sorry sort 56. Diner order

DAILY U

58. Dove’s sound 59. Half and half 60. Kan. neighbor

LAST ISSUE’S SOLUTION

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

Pisces Feb 19 - Mar 20 Too many outside responsibilities at once could have you at odds with a current love partner, Pisces. Your beloved may seem to be demanding a choice between your job and the relationship. Don’t read things into the situation that aren’t there, and don’t be too proud to talk about it. Pride really can come before a fall. Explain the circumstances in detail and all should be well.

WEEKLYWEATHER

www.accuweather.com

TODAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

HIGH 62 LOW 38

HIGH 63 LOW 42

HIGH 69 LOW 48

HIGH 72 LOW 50

HIGH 72 LOW 49

HIGH 69 LOW 45

HIGH 62 LOW 52

SUDOKUPUZZLE

www.sudoku-puzzles.net

Difficulty HARD

LAST ISSUE’S SOLUTION

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

WE ARE

CHARLESTON SQUARE A

24 Hour Emergency Maintenance On-Site Laundry

Private Balconies

Dishwashers & Garbage Disposals 1 Mile From La Tech

2100 WEST BARNETT SPRINGS AVE • RUSTON, LA 71270 • 318.251.0595

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8 • The Tech Talk • January 29, 2015

Sports Talk

PROGRESS finally made

Photo by Colin Fontenot

Rendering by TBA Studios

ABOVE: The south end zone facility is on schedule and set to be completed in August. LEFT: This is an architectural rendering of the completed south end zone facility.

The south end zone facility is on schedule to be completed in August of this year, while the outside of the building will be finished in April ALEX HEARD Staff Reporter

ouisiana Tech’s long-awaited south end zone facility is finally nearing completion after its introduction more than four years ago. In June 2010, Tech unveiled its “Quest for Excellence” campaign. Since then numerous renovations and advancements have been made to Tech’s athletic facilities including the new video board and sound system inside the Thomas Assembly Center, the new locker rooms and ticket office inside Pat Patterson Park and the new press box at the Lady Techster Softball Complex. But the crown jewel of the campaign has always been the south end zone complex being built inside Joe Aillet Stadium. In October 2013, Tech Athletics Director Tommy McClelland announced construction of the $18 million addition to Joe Aillet Stadium would begin in the spring of 2014. One year after the start of construction, Adam McGuirt, associate athletics director for internal operations, said the project is on schedule and nearing completion. “The south end zone project’s construction is set to end in August of this year after 16 months of construction,” McGuirt said. While the building is close to being finished, McGuirt said additional features are still being added.

“The east side is done now and the west side is trying to catch up,” he said. “Most of the steel is up and the concrete seating is to be added next.” The south end zone facility is the first major athletic construction project at Tech since the Thomas Assembly Center was built in 1982. Most of the building’s exterior will be completed in time MCGUIRT for the T-Day Spring Game in April so fans will be able to get a glimpse of what the building will look like. “The south end zone project is a 70,000-square foot facility with premium seating, set to create a new game day experience,” McGuirt said. “This experience will not be like anything a Tech football fan has seen before.” Inside, the facility will feature 302 premium clubseats, a stadium-style film room and a banquet room which will be available for student activities as well. The facility will allow the crowd to make a greater impact on the games played inside Joe Aillet Stadium by being designed to help enhance the crowd noise. “Now that a building will be there, sound will no longer leave the south end zone,” McGuirt said. “This will trap more crowd noise in the stadium allowing the

fans to be more like a ‘12th man’ on the field.” McGuirt said the new complex will create a horseshoe-like design inside the stadium, which will enhance the crowd noise, creating an impact opposing teams have not experienced before inside Joe Aillet Stadium. Even though it is a part of the football stadium, McGuirt said the new facility will contribute to all of Tech’s sports teams. “Football will operate out of the second floor, but the new weight room will be shared by all sports teams,” he said. Keith Mayo, a construction administrator with Tim Brandon Architecture Studios, the firm in charge of the facility’s construction, said the luxury seating offered by the new facility is not only unique to Tech, it is unique to the entire region as well. “This new club-level outdoor seating the south end zone project offers is the only one in North Louisiana,” Mayo said. The facility will be available for fans to sit in during the upcoming football season and tickets are available for purchase at the Tech ticket office now. For more on Tech athletics, follow the Tech Talk Sports Desk’s Twitter page at twitter.com/techtalksports.

Email comments to amh072@latech.edu.