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NOVEMBER 5, 2015
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VOLUME 90 • ISSUE 7
World War II veteran receives honor award KEIERA BELL Staff Reporter |klb071@latech.edu
Photos by Avery Bryan
Ozzy Weast (left) and Cole Carroll (right), freshman chemical engineering majors, present their idea about hidden cameras.
TOP DAWG begins Students begin phase one as they pitch ideas for the TOP DAWG competition
> see AWARD page 6
2015 Fall Festival: a campus association collaboration
CATHERINE BURKE Staff Reporter | cjb066@latech.edu
Ideas and inventions swirled around University Hall as the 14th annual TOP DAWG idea pitch was underway. Seventeen teams of Louisiana Tech students pitched their ideas to other students and a panel of judges. Sawyer Stone, a fourth-year Ph.D. biomedical student, said his group’s idea sparked from working in a lab. “We all do laboratory work with micro fluid testing,” he said. “We saw food getting wasted because of spoiling and decided to come up with the solution of the Chicken Checker.” Stone said the Chicken Checker is a simple and efficient way to check if chicken is safe to eat. “So you have chicken in your fridge for a week and are not sure if it is still
The United States and France have a history that brought them together during a severe time of war, which created a lasting friendship. To commemorate that friendship, a ceremony was held last Wednesday evening to award Robert Hurtig with the French Legion of Honor award for his courageous endeavors as a soldier in World War II. “I’m really excited that this is all for me, and that my family and friends are here to congratulate me,” Hurtig said. Hurtig is a veteran who fought on French soil in 1944 and 1945. He was also a nontraditional Louisiana Tech student for 10 years and acquired up to 90 hours. The Consul General of France, Gregor Trumel, presented the Legion of Honor award. “I am proud to come back to Ruston, on behalf of the French government and its people, to give this award to Mr. Hurtig and it is an honor to pay tribute to him for his help in saving my country,” Trumel said. Trumel said he is proud to share the Legion of Honor award with American veterans because it is a great way to celebrate the French-American alliance all around the world to fight for democracy, human rights and security. He also said it is interesting to be back in Ruston to honor Hurtig because he was on campus in January to honor Dr. Dolliann “Dolly’ Hurtig,”who is Robert Hurtig’s daughter. Dolly Hurtig is a Louisiana Tech associate professor in the School of Literature and Language. She is also one of the French professors and a mentor to Tech’s French Fulbright teachers.
MICHAEL HOGE Staff Reporter | mph027@latech.edu
Cole Carroll, a freshman chemical engineering major, said his group teamed up to create a device that helps hunters and home security. “We created an incognito camera primarily for deer hunters to set up,” he said. “Too many times deer see a camera and never return to that site so we came up with a sly solution.”
Union Board held its first Fall Festival, hosting a crowd from the Louisiana Tech and Ruston communities, on Oct. 27. Originally the event was to be held outside, but due to weather it was held inside the Student Center. “The whole thing was to be a community connection event for the school, it was meant to bring together different organizations to be able to give back to the community that gives us so much throughout the year,” said Sam Hussein, president of Union Board. Hussein, a senior finance major, said this years fall festival was a collaboration between different campus associations such as Union Board, Student Government Association and the International Students.
> see TOP DAWG page 6
> see FALL FEST page 6
Sawyer Stone, a senior biomedical engineering, demonstrates a Chicken Checker.
good,” he said. “The Chicken Checker is a simple piece of paper you press against the chicken and the color determines whether or not it is safe.” Stone said he believes his group’s idea pitch is the best because of the statistics that go along with it. “Every year an average of 2-4 percent of chicken that is to be shipped out is spoiled on the shelf,” he said. “That is around 240 pounds wasted.”
NEWS
2 • The Tech Talk • November 5, 2015
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English students share their research REBEKAH BARNES Staff Reporter | reb033@latech.edu College students are used to listening to lectures, but three of Louisiana Tech’s English students took turns giving their own presentations to professors and students at The Southeastern Medieval Association’s 41st annual conference in Little Rock, Arkansas Celia Lewis, one of Tech’s English professors, took John Sadler, Hannah Gissendanner and Amber Jurgensen to the conference, where they all presented their research, answered questions and listened to other lecturers. Jurgensen, a senior English and history major, said she wants to be an English professor and specialize in Victorian novels. “I think it’s because that literature is what I’ve had the most fun reading and what I would really like to do the most research in,” Jurgensen said. “I think it’s important to want to do research in the field that you choose if you’re going to be a professor.” She said she really enjoyed the camaraderie within the medieval scholar community. “They were very complimentary while still giving good, constructive criticism,” she said. Though she has had some public speaking experience, she said she was most nervous about the question and answer portion. “Confidence is key,” she said. “I left my panel feeling happy and like I had done a really good job.” Lewis invited students in her Chaucer class to submit their papers for the quarter to the conference, and said she wanted them to foster professionalism. “In whatever course I’m teaching, I want my students to be a part of the wider academic conversation,” Lewis said. “The experience reminds us that our studies at Tech and the research we do is relevant to today’s
Photo courtesy of John Sadler
Hannah Gissendanner, Amber Jurgensen, Celia Lewis and John Sadler pose outside a conference room at the Southeastern Medieval Associations Conference in Little Rock, Arkansas. world.” She said when her students write strong papers, she always encourages them to submit to a publication or conference. “Amber, Hannah and John did a brilliant job representing Tech,” she said. “Let’s just say I was not the only one who was impressed by their poise, intelligence and professionalism.”
HIM receives recognition PAUL DAUTERIVE Staff Reporter | pdd010@latech.edu Confined to a single floor in Wyly Tower, students, alumni and professors of the department of health informatics and information management are gaining national recognition in their field. The American Health Information Management Association held its annual convention in New Orleans in September where two Tech professors and alumni of the department received awards. At the AHIMA convention, health informatics and information management professor, Prerna Dua and Kim Theodos received awards. The department head and professor of health informatics and information management, Angela Kennedy, said she is delighted and humbled by the success of their students, graduates and faculty. “We have an exceptional faculty in the HIM department,” Kennedy said. “Our faculty are being honored with state national awards for their dedication to the profession and industry.” Dua was given the Triumph Award by AHIMA for research while Theodos was received an award for distinguished member from the Louisiana branch of AHIMA. Kennedy said other alumni of the department were also recently honored. Danielle Berthelot, graduate of Tech,
received the American Health Information Management Association’s Triumph Award for Mentoring and Amanda Parsonage, 2015 graduate, received recognition for outstanding leadership and service from the American Health Information Management Association Board of Directors. Kennedy said Jamie Hatchell, a 2015 graduate of Tech, has had much recent success in her field. She said Hatchell served as her graduate assistant and teacher’s aide. “She was hired as a project manager six months before graduation,” Kennedy said. Kennedy said she and Hatchell plan to work with other international students and members of the World Health Organization on a research project for presentation at the International Federation of Health Information Management Associations that will be held in Japan in fall 2016. Kennedy said the recent success of her department is inspiring. “Our graduates are taking their ‘seat at the table’ and emerging early in their careers as leaders,” she said. Kennedy said this year the department was recognized as one of the top 20 in the nation with faculty ranked in the top 10. “It’s exciting to know that Louisiana Tech is making an impact on the healthcare industry,” she said.
Gissendanner, a senior English major, said she began to enjoy analyzing texts in high school and the conference made her love research even more. “I got a lot of good feedback during the question and answer part,” Gissendanner said. “One PhD student gave me some advice to help further my paper, and I got a lot of ideas.”
The students also attended round table discussions where professors sat on a stage and conversed about topics from teaching medieval literature to getting published. “I’ll never forget that they said, ‘Don’t expect your students to be like you,’ because I love English,” Gissendanner said. “It’s important to go into teaching with an open mind.”
SPEAK MAGAZINE
IS COMING WINTER 2015
UPCOMING EVENTS FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
•Homecoming Parade at 5:30 p.m.
• LA Tech football homecoming game vs. North Texas 2:30 P.M.
•No Calendar Events
• Registration for sophomores
• Louisiana Tech Choir concert at Trinity United Methodist Church 7:30 P.M.
•Registration for Freshmen
•LA Tech volleyball vs. FIU 6 P.M.
•LA Tech Women’s basketball exhibition vs Mississippi College 6:30 P.M.
NEWS
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November 5, 2015 • The Tech Talk • 3
From graduation to commission FEDEDREIA WILLIS Staff Reporter | flw005@latech.edu
Photo by Jonathan Shaul
Students observe different projects at the School of Design’s open house.
SOD holds integrated open house MICHAEL HOGE Staff Reporter | mph027@latech.edu The Louisiana Tech School of Design held an open house Oct. 29, showcasing technology used by students and the everyday work they accomplish. “Originally it was for studio art and graphic design,” said Nick Bustamante, chair for studio art. He said two years ago it changed when the Schools of Art and Architecture were merged into the School of Design, bringing the architecture and interior design programs into the open house. “One of the things that came out of the program was building a sense of community with the students,” Bustamante said. He said one of the most valuable components of the open house was how upper division students could look at what freshmen were doing and reflect on their own journey
at Tech. said one display in particu“We don’t have any lar illustrated how students classes where freshmen contributed to the commuand seniors interact,” nity. Bustamante said. “this is “We normally have jua chance where they can niors do a 12-week promeet and see each other.” gram. They design for He said the three weeks and open house build for nine,” gives the chance he said. for students to De Paola said showcase their for three years work to friends they worked on and family and the Huckleberry celebrate their trails Park and accomplishtwo years ago ments. the students “It gives started a colour students a laboration with chance to go Med Camps, over and look at which is for chilDE PAOLA what architecdren with disture and interior abilities. design students are doing “We have done two and vice versa,” Busta- projects for them, one is mante said. a pavilion,” he said. “The Pasquale De Paola, second one is an archery chair for architecture, said range and it was completthe architecture side of ed April of this year.” the open house exhibited a Robert Brooks, an ascondensed version of what sociate professor of arstudents work toward in chitecture, said the camp their specific program. He and students both enjoyed
working with each other. “We take so much for granted being able-bodied people, and then being able to use our talent to give experiences to camper who otherwise would not have them,” he said. Brooks said it allows for experimentation to see what works and what doesn’t. It was exhilarating to have so much diversity in the School of Design because it offered him a new perspective after viewing all the student work in the Visual Arts Center, he said. “The process is what’s beautiful about it,” said Marla Emory, chair of interior design. She said their product is their process, quoting Todd Maggio, another professor in the school. “It’s been very beneficial to all the faculty to be able to see what each other are doing and it’s been a breath of fresh air,” Emory said.
ter option than not having a plan at all,” he said. “I would be lying if I said my Walking away from his sophomore year was easy. high school graduation, It was far from it, it was Matt Gandia did not have one of my hardest years any intentions of joining in college, but at the end I the military, but he is now received a scholarship from looking forward to graduat- the Air Force paying for my ing college and being com- college career.” Gandia said in his eyes, missioned. “When I was in high taking a chance and doing school, I had no interest in something he was not so joining the military,” Gan- sure about helped him find dia said. “It never became a a future benefiting rest of thought in my head. I didn’t his life. “Ever since joining even want to go to college ROTC I have been through originally.” so much H o w e v e r, stress and he said, his “I feel confident struggle,” he mother and said. “But by father forced in my abilities him to come enough to be able being in the Air Force, you to college on to face the real have to find the notion ways to deal that getting a world with no with them, degree was fear.” which is probgoing to be ably the numthe only way MATT GANDIA ber one thing he could get a Senior industrial the Air Force job in the real engineering major has taught me world. stress manGandia agement.” said he relucGandia said from all tantly decided to come to of his experience, he has Tech. “My first year in college gained a new respect for I didn’t choose a major and military life. He said it takes a lot of still had no thought about what I wanted to do as a hard work, dedication and career,” he said. “But during a lot of stress to become the spring quarter of my successful. “Luckily, from the trainfreshman year, I decided to talk to Captain Adam Am- ing the Air Force has givbercrombie, then the Op- en me, I feel confident in erations Flight Commander my abilities enough to be for Detachment 305, and able to face the real world he told me a bit about the with no fear,” Gandia said. Air Force and what they “Overall, I am optimistic on what my future has in had to offer.” Gandia said after a few stored for me.” He said after taking his conversations with Ambercrombie and his partner, commissioning oath, the Captain Travis Albee, he Air Force wants him to be decided to give Air Force a drone pilot, but like all things in life, who knows ROTC a try. He also declared indus- what will happen to him a trial engineering as his ma- year from now? “I’m just going to enjoy jor at the beginning of his the ride and keep having sophomore year. “I had no idea what I enough confidence in mywas getting into, with either self to know I can handle engineering nor ROTC, anything life throws at me,” but this seemed like a bet- he said.
Tech: then and now ress Tech has made and is making,” she said. “We support this university in any way we can through sports and scholarships.” She said they give scholarships in honor Opening up in 1894 as Industrial Insti- of her father and her mother-in-law to entute and College of Louisiana, the universi- able a students to come to Tech and have ty has experienced many changes through the same great experiences they had. the ages but still holds tight to its history Though the student body may look even up to its current views and different than it did back in the standing as Louisiana Tech Uni1900s, there is one historical versity. touch the university is holding “In 1940, a long time ago, to: the campus asthetic. when I was student and my wife “Even though Hale Hall is a came about a year later, I think fairly new building, it has looked the university had just reached the same way since 1898 or so, 2,000 in enrollment,” said Virgil when it was first built,” said Tech Orr, a Tech alumni. “I have seen President Les Guice said. this campus grow so much in He said in most cases, when size, it is incredible to watch.” adding a new building, the uniOrr said Tech has always versity tries to preserve the charbeen a campus where the people acter and the charm of the Tech HONEYCUTT cared about each other and tried infostructure. to make the world better and he “If you look at the features of believes Tech still has those characteristics. the new building we are bringing in, they “Back in the day when I was a student, have a lot of the Tech feature,” Guice said, I mainly remember the clothes we wore,” “which is one thing we ask the architects to he said. “Fashion was not a factor back in do when designing a new building because those days; you just wore what you had.” we want to respect the history of this uniMyrtis Orr said she and her husband versity.” love the big family atmosphere, which is He said what a person sees on Tech’s one reason they still make all of the ball campus is a lot of the traditional landgames and faculty luncheons. marks and buildings sprinkled in with new “We are proud of the campus and prog- buildings. FEDEDREIA WILLIS Staff Reporter | flw005@latech.edu
Photo by Jonathan Shaul
Virgil and Myrtis Orr reflect on how Tech has changed since the 1940s. Another perspective about Tech history and updates comes from a 2015 student aspect and what the changes look like to from his view. Dakota Honeycutt, a senior mechanical engineering major, said some differences he has noticed is the way the university is moving and what it is leaving behind. Honeycutt said in the next 10 years, with the increase in football and enroll-
ment, he feels like Tech is pushing towards a larger style school. He said Tech should not lose sight of industrial and engineering factors, which is what has gotten the university where it is now. “They use sports to recruit a lot, rather than focusing on engineering as much as they used to,” he said. “I love Tech and where it is going, but I hope they never lose focus.”
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4 • The Tech Talk • November 5, 2015
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TechTalk
FROM THE EDITOR
MANAGEMENT
A war we didn’t see coming
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Ellie Moslander
MANAGING EDITOR
ELLIE MOSLANDER Editor-In-Chief | emo012@latech edu
Rachel Maxwell
NEWS EDITOR Blake Bolin
FEATURE EDITOR Devin Dronett
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Matthew Valcho
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Brian Blakely
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I
SIS, the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, we have all heard this term many times over this past year. For a while, it seemed like there was nothing else in the news as media outlets stirred up fear in the general public with this new terrorist organization. Like every major topic in the news, it seemed to become slightly forgotten after a while, even thought the severity of it never really went away, we just moved on to another hot topic issue. Then suddenly ISIS is all over the news again, and this time we must take them seriously, because now we are more involved than ever. President Barack Obama approved the order for troops of about 50 to be on the ground in Syria in order to advise and assist Kurdish and Arab fighters battling Isis territories. If this is not a big deal to
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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 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.
ginning of a world war, and we could very well see this is our generation. Whether this is the case or not, we are on the brink of something major and if this means war, the world is in for a horrible awakening. Can the world live through another world war? With the kind of technology we have today and the types of weapons many of these countries have or have the ability to obtain, the idea of a major war is honestly terrifying. By sending in these American troops, Obama has made an undeclared statement of war, and we are not playing with an enemy willing to negotiate. Terrorism is on another level of warfare the world has had yet to see the worst of, and that this generation should begin preparing themselves to see. Ellie Moslander is a senior journalism major from Albuquerque who serves as editor-in-chief or The Tech Talk.
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America, than something is seriously wrong. This is the sign of yet another undeclared war with whi our nation is yet again becoming involved with. Even though the deployment was on a smaller scale, American troops are back in the Middle East fighting another terrorist organization.The war against terror involves everyone, and we may not see it at the moment, but many serious things are happening between major world powers and terrorist organizations. Recently in a message sent to Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, ISIS claimed responsibility for downing the Russian Metrojet flight 9268 in Egypt. ISIS has also made statements about how the Russian air strikes in Syria have only been helping them. Russia, Syria and America are now all becoming involved with each other more and more everyday, and this alone is extremely serious. Some may believe it is the be-
RACHEL MAXWELL Managing Editor | ram049@latech.edu
I
t seems like every time I log into Facebook I find a friend request from a random girl I don’t know. At first I thought it was a little unusual, until I noticed a pattern. When I clicked on all of these girls’ profiles, their statuses were filled with “offers of a lifetime” aimed at selling their Facebook friends body wraps, makeup, or whatever their multi-level marketing scheme has convinced them to tout online. These schemes are not new; Younique and It Works! are just today’s answer to Melaluca and Pampered Chef. In the social media generation, there are even more avenues through which to get suckered into such schemes, but with this increase in “business opportunity” also comes quicker and easier ways to debunk the scams. A quick google of the any of the
companies in question would give hints to their illegitimacy. Even if none of the first page links have headlines identifying them as scams, in every single search I did, “pyramid scheme” was in the related searches bar. The fact that so many people have fallen into the trap and are now actively trying to recruit “distributors” under them is one of the more harmful example of a problem that has become increasingly prevalent in this day and age: media illiteracy on the Internet. People are willing to invest money into a company without doing any research is evidence of people’s willingness to take things they read or see online at face value. This is seen daily in other situations, such as news sharing. As journalism students, we are taught to check the source, check it again, and then check it a third time. In an era in which a majority of
people’s news comes from Facebook or Twitter, it is even more important that the regular media consumer does this for themselves. We have all seen friends share far-fetched headlines we know can’t be true, but sometimes the lies and clickbait are not easy to identify. Sometimes, it takes a quick cross-referencing before you hit the share button. In the age of information, one common slogan of MLM schemes does ring true. We do have “unlimited opportunities.” But with this wealth of information also comes increased opportunities for manipulation and deception, so before you sign up to sell mascara or share that crazy article, do yourself a favor and use the resources you have at your fingertips to check it out. Rachel Maxwell is a sophomore journalism major from Benton who serves as managing editor for the Tech Talk.
GET THE PICTURE
Creative complications DEVIN DRONETT Features Editor | dhd005@laech.edu
W
hile discussing creative processes with other artists, I can say that we all agree we lose our creative abilities every now and then. I’m not talking about the lack of skill or abilities, but the loss of including some aspect of yourself or life in your art. I will admit I struggle with phases of feeling uncreative with photography. Some days I am excited and ready to take on any challenge to come my way and create creative imagery. Other times there is difficulty to the visual challenges that arise and nothing really seems worth photographing. This feeling of lack of creativity builds up over time and our professors constantly wanting new ideas each project does not help with the process. There must be some explanation to this disturbing thought
of feeling uncreative. The idea of becoming more creative cannot be approached by some simple solution that enhances our imaginative component. When I first began taking art classes, it was somewhat annoying having my professors constantly wanting better and more refined creative ideas. At first it was difficult, but I have slowly begun to include certain ideals into my art and can now see the importance of a strong concept. These imaginative ideas they wanted us to include would add another layer of depth than what is just visible to the eye. I believe strong creative concepts are a vital aspect to art as this is what differentiates good technical art and great thought out inspirational art. In the end there is no single answer for creativity. However, I believe true inspiration is based on what we learn about ourselves
and the aspects of our lives we feel most strongly about. When creating art with some imaginative component, you are ultimately crafting something for yourself and secondly, showing the world some aspect or point of view from your life. There are ways of seeing and thinking that can benefit everyone. Discovering your path to creativity will enhance how you feel about yourself and increase the number of times your art will invoke some wonderful feelings and thoughts in others. That’s the beauty in art, my creativity is not the same as yours; this allows us to open our minds to discover more about ourselves and each other. Devin Dronett is a senior graphic design major from from Lake Charles who serves as features editor for The Tech Talk.
Did CNBC go too far with GOP debate? T
he latest GOP debate made waves throughout the United States, when multiple presidential candidates lashed out at the moderators of the event. The moderators: John Harwood, Becky Quick and Carl Quintanilla, led off the night with an attack on Donald Trump, asking if he was running a comic book campaign. Nobody was thrown off by this question, this is not the first time someone has attacked Trump and it certainly will not be the last. If Trump is going to dish out the attacks, he needs to be wiling to take them. It was the questions which followed that raised eyebrows. The moderators insinuated that Ben Carson could not do math. They asked Marco Rubio if he should resign. The asked John Kasich to attack two candidates on stage. All until one of the candidates had enough. Ted Cruz won the debate with this one line: “This is not a cage match. And you look at the questions -- Donald Trump, are you a comic book villain? Ben Carson, can you do math? John Kasich, will you insult two people over here? Marco Rubio, why don’t you resign? Jeb Bush, why have your numbers fallen? How about talking about the substantive issues.” Cruz received a standing ovation from the crowd. CNBC finally took their bias too far and the American people noticed. It is past time for Americans to step in and realize what is going on. Marco Rubio brought the house down when he referred to the mainstream media as Hillary Clinton’s biggest Super Pac. He could not have been more correct. That was not the end of the fireworks; later during the debate, the moderators asked Ben Carson about his relationship with Mannatech. Carson denied any relationship and said that if a picture of him was used, it was without his permission. The moderators ask if that spoke to his judgment. A hail of boos rained down from the crowd, to which Carson responded, “They get it.” That was not a question from Carl Quintanilla; it was an attack. Chris Christie delivered the final blow of the night, while trying to answer a question, he was interrupted multiple times by John Harwood. Christie shot back saying, “John, do you want me to answer or do you want to answer? Because I got to tell you the truth, even in New Jersey what you are doing is called rude.” A chorus of laughter followed and John Harwood was left with his tail between his legs. The job of a moderator is not to be the star of the debate. Yet, for CNBC that was the only goal. Yes, this group of candidates has given us more fireworks than all past years combined, but like Cruz said, this is not a cage match. The candidates do not need any help in attacking each other. CNBC was on a mission to make a mockery of the entire process and make the Republican candidates look foolish. Unfortunately for them, they were the only ones who left the debate looking foolish.
November 5, 2015 • The Tech Talk • 5
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ON OUR
RADAR MOVIES
HERE ARE SOME MOVIES COMING TO THEATRES THIS NOVEMBER
Jack Black stars as R.L. Stine, the creator of the “Goosebumps The cast of “A... “franchise. My Name Is Alice” acts out the song “All Girl Band.” Photos by Colin Fontenot
“A ... My Name Is Alice”; Not just for women REBEKAH BARNES Staff Reporter | reb033@latech.edu
despite self-doubt, work and motherhood by joining an all-girl band. The women introduce themselves The opening night of Louisiana as Alice in the style of a child’s ABC Tech’s production of “A … My Name game for which the play is named: is Alice” was effortlessly and laugh- “A ... my name is Alice, and my husout-loud funny. band’s name is Adam, and his girlFrom cheating boyfriends and friend’s name is Amy, and my lover’s catcalling construction workers, to name is Abby…” friendships and sisterhood, “A … The show balances amusing songs My Name is Alice” encompasses so and monologues with heartfelt remany different facets of frains about relationwomanhood in an unships. “Theater is abashed style. Following the first “A … My Name is Al- important benumber is a duet beice” is a musical revue, cause it touches tween a 15-year-old girl conceived in 1983 by going on her first date Joan Micklin Silver and people. Whether and a widow going on Julianne Boyd. her first blind date after you’re performIt contains sketches, 35 years of marriage. monologues and music, ing or watchThey both experiand instead of following ing, it changes ence some of the same a story line, it focuses on lives.” fears even thought they the themes of women’s are at different stages in strengths and differences. OLIVIA WILLCOX life. Director Cherrie sophomore theater Between moments Sciro said she chose the major of absurd humor and play because the theater relatable rants, the play department has such a includes social comstrong group of women this season. mentary. One song highlights a teach“I don’t think there’s enough out er telling a hard-working mother that there that shows how strong women her daughter is a nuisance because are or our integrity and growth,” Sciro she is self-assured and learning besaid. yond her grade level. Purple and lavender drapes hang One of the women on stage was above the Stone Theater stage, with Olivia Willcox, a sophomore theater a band composed entirely of women major. She said her favorite number situated behind purple raised plat- is “Friends,” which depicts a friendforms. ship between two girls developing The opening song and dance fea- over time, and how they lean on each tures women who find empowerment other through their struggles.
IN THEATERS 11.6.15
AS JAMES BOND TRAVELS TO MEXICO CITY, DANIEL CRAIG RETURNS FOR THE LAST TIME IN THE NEWEST 007 FILM “SPECTRE.”
Michelle Dormaier performs the monologue “For Women Only.” “Once you leave a stage, you know how strong it was,” Willcox said. “Theater is important because it touches people. Whether you’re performing or watching, it changes lives.” Candace Casey said this was her first time to see a Tech production. The freshman family and consumer sciences education major said she recommends the play to everyone, especially men. “There doesn’t have to be this division between gender, age or race,” Casey said. “All the personalities on stage were so relatable and fun to see.”
ALEX G “BEACH MUSIC”
“CAROL”
IN THEATERS 11.19.15 CATE BLANCHETT STARS IN THE ADAPTATION PATRICIA HIGHSMITH’S SEMINAL NOVEL THE PRICE OF SALT WHERE TWO YOUNG WOMEN IN THE 1950S FIND THEMSELVES IN A LOVE AFFAIR.
“MOCKINGJAY: PART TWO” IN THEATERS 11.20.15
ELLIE MOSLANDER Editor-In-Chief | emo012@latech.edu
The eerie voice of Alex G comes back in his seventh major album, “Beach Music.” The underground alternative rock musician from Philadelphia has shown he has more to offer than it has seemed in the past. Although most of his albums have been selfreleased “Beach House” is Alex G’s debut album released with Domino Records. While it does take a while to get used to his voice and unusual style, Alex G incorporates a lot of different musical styles from different genres and eras of music. With his previous EP “Animals,” he has a more acid punk rock edgy feel, whereas “Beach Music” shows the softer lucid alternative of Alex G’s music. The song “Thorns,” about the
“007: SPECTRE”
Domino Records
devil, seems right out of a dream. While some songs like “In Love” are hard to listen to because of the harshness of his voice, it is still a good song nonetheless. This is how Alex G normally operates, creating almost a love-hate relationship through his music.
Moving on to songs like “Walk,” which has a very jam band feel, the style of songs on this album have a wide range in tone and sound. “Station” is one of the more unusual songs on the album, even for Alex G. In the song “Ready” reflects the songwriters lax mind set as he sings, “Roll around on the kitchen floor, I know what’s been gettin to you.” Alex G did a good job with this album, even though it may not be everyone’s musical taste. His album should attract a larger audience than previous albums have before. Alex G uses vivid illustrations in his lyrics such as ““White bird in a black cloud,” featured in the song “Kicker.” Although his music may not be everyone’s preference, through “Beach Music” Alex G has proven his musical talent and his ability to produce a well thought out album with depth.
IN THE FINAL HUNGER GAMES MOVIE “MOCKINGJAY: PART TWO,” KATNISS SETS OUT TO FREE THE CITIZENS OF PANEM.
“VICTOR FRANKENSTEIN” IN THEATERS 11.27.15
JAMES MCAVOY AND DANIEL RADCLIFFE STAR IN THE STORY OF FRANKENSTEIN, WITH A TWIST.
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6 • The Tech Talk • November 5, 2015
WEEKLYHOROSCOPE www.horoscopes.com.net
Aries March 21 – April 19 Some visitors could come to your home today, perhaps a couple with a child. You’ll go through the place like a whirlwind and want everything to look just right. You might even be tempted to clean out the closets! Don’t bother. Just relax and enjoy the company of your guests. They’re more interested in what you have to say than whether or not the house is spotless. Taurus Apr 20 - May 20 A call from a close friend or love partner could bring good news today. You’ll be so happy about it that you’ll want to get word out to everyone you know. This could involve romance or it might concern a creative project of some kind, perhaps involving writing and speaking. In the evening you’ll probably want to go out and celebrate with the person who brought you the news. Gemini May 21 - Jun 20 You could be cleaning your house when you hear some wonderful news about money today. This could make your day. You won’t want to do much housework afterward. Don’t worry - the dirt isn’t going anywhere! Instead of feeling guilty about letting the housework go, go out and celebrate with a close friend or your partner. You deserve it. Have a great evening! Cancer Jun 21 - Jul 22 Today could be one of the happiest days you’ve had in a long time. Perhaps you’ll spend it with a current or potential romantic partner, going to quaint places in your neighborhood. You could also hear from someone close that you may not have seen for a long time. A female author whose work you enjoy could publish a new book. Enjoy a thoroughly pleasant, stimulating day! Leo Jul 23 - Aug 22 Today you could receive an unexpected sum of money. Perhaps a friend who owes you could repay the debt, or you could get an unexpected opportunity to earn a little extra on the side. Romance should also go well, as both you and a current or potential romantic partner are feeling especially warm and sensual. Go to a favorite restaurant to celebrate your good fortune. Virgo Aug 23 - Sep 22 Love and romance blossom as a current or potential love partner comes on strong with passionate affection. This person could have a lot to say that catches you by surprise. In the past, communicating may not have been this person’s strength, but now it’s like there’s no stopping the flow of words. Listen, and
guard your responses. You’ll need to think about what he or she says. Libra Sep 23 - Oct 22 Someone who may be something of a local celebrity might suddenly be attracted to you, although at this point neither one of you may be inclined to pursue it. Don’t expect much from this person beyond conversation, although this should be very stimulating now. The energy should be strong enough to last beyond the day, so don’t be shy about exchanging names and phone numbers. Scorpio Oct 23 - Nov 21 Today you may be powerfully attracted to someone from a distant state or foreign country. The person may be highly educated and stimulating. You could find the conversation riveting. This person could be involved in the sciences, psychology, or perhaps metaphysics. You’ll probably choose to listen more than talk now. Sagittarius Nov 22 - Dec 21 You’re probably getting a lot of great news today. Business and personal success are coming your way. A project that you’ve hoped would turn a profit may finally be moving that way. Financial gain is imminent. Your enthusiasm, self-confidence, and optimism should be very high as a result, making you that much more apt to move forward. Capricorn Dec 22 - Jan 19 A wedding could take place. It might be yours or it could be that of someone close to you. Whoever is getting married is very happy. If it isn’t you, you’ll be happy for him or her and you might start thinking longingly of a celebration of your own. If you’re currently involved but not married, expect to move to the next level of commitment. If you’re already married, enjoy the party! Aquarius Jan 20 - Feb 18 Today you might do some routine work, perhaps as a volunteer, with an interesting person whose company you enjoy. Lively conversations should make the day go faster. You could end the day looking forward to seeing this person again. Through your new friend and the work, you should gain a lot of insight into the psyches of others, not to mention your own!
CROSSWORDPUZZLE Across 1. Snow conveyances 6. Puts away 10. ___ II (razor brand) 14. Oil holder 15. Scent 16. Depend 17. Architectural piers 18. Wraparound dress 19. Supermodel Sastre 20. Discovers 22. Impertinent 24. Father 26. Small village 27. The ___ Falcon 31. Maiden name indicator 32. Light ___ 33. Mountains 36. Submissions to eds. 39. Modish 40. Ridge 41. Fencing sword 42. Sun. speech 43. Was sore 44. Astrologer Sydney 45. Muff 46. Curved like a bow 48. Peace salutation 51. Court divider 52. Wickedness 54. Conventional 59. I smell ___! 60. Hint 62. Michelangelo masterpiece 63. Long luxuriant hair 64. German Mister 65. Milk container 66. Mines 67. Himalayan legend 68. Appears
www.bestcrosswords.com Down 1. Authenticating mark 2. Pool division 3. It is in Spain 4. Expensive 5. Thin 6. Aurora’s counterpart 7. First man 8. Synagogue scroll 9. Ceylon, now 10. Three-bagger 11. Actress Zellweger 12. On the qui vive 13. Fluid-filled sac 21. KLM rival 23. Iowa city 25. Profundity 27. Apple products 28. 1975 Wimbledon champ 29. Lion’s den 30. ___-tac-toe 34. Before, once 35. Quinn of “Legends of the Fall” 36. Movie.rating org. 37. Spanish muralist 38. Parched 40. Haphazard 41. Grounded bird 43. Asia’s ___ Sea 44. Ink dispenser? 45. In groups 47. Flag thrower 48. Turkish palace 49. ___-garde 50. 1957 hit for the Bobbettes 52. Moist 53. Mongol tent 55. Travel on
DAILY U
56. Ancient Persian 57. Up and ___! 58. Metallica drummer Ulrich 61. “___ tu” (Verdi aria)
LAST ISSUE’S SOLUTION
Have any ideas for future comics or feedback? Email dwyer@latech.edu
Pisces Feb 19 - Mar 20 A new love relationship could appear on the horizon, perhaps with someone as creative as you. This could cause some self-doubt, particularly about your appearance, but don’t succumb to that. The person is drawn to your energy! Some fascinating conversations could take place. Feelings should run deep. This could lead to a long-term commitment.
WEEKLYWEATHER
www.accuweather.com
TODAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
HIGH 80 LOW 69
HIGH 74 LOW 58
HIGH 65 LOW 47
HIGH 66 LOW 42
HIGH 68 LOW 50
HIGH 69 LOW 55
HIGH 70 LOW 51
TOP DAWG from pg. 1
SUDOKUPUZZLE
www.sudoku-puzzles.net
Difficulty EXPERT
LAST ISSUE’S SOLUTION
Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 grid contains the digits 1 through 9.
AWARD from pg. 1
FALL FEST from pg. 1
>
>
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“No matter where you hunt, there then get a mentor who helps them are always a lot of dead trees around,” work on and improve what they have he said. “This camera is made to be so far,” she said. “They work together set up in those dead trees in four differ- to build and prepare to compete again ent parts, making it almost in December and then the completely invisible to the spring.” naked eye.” She said she really likes Carroll said the camera getting students involved on has more uses than just for both sides. deer hunting. “We give Tech students “This camera was creatthe opportunity to look ed for the purpose of helparound and vote on which ing deer hunters but it has idea pitch they like best,” other uses as well,” he said. she said. “The winner gets a “This camera can be set $300 cash prize.” up outside your house and Inman said the event used for security purposes.” helps students work on their INMAN The director of the cenfuture encounters in the ter for entrepreneurship business field. and information technology, “The TOP DAWG idea Debbie Inman, said this is a qualifier pitch helps students work on developevent to compete in the championship ing as well as future customer service,” in the spring. she said. “It is really all about creativity “These groups pitch their ideas and and innovation.”
“I’m really proud of my father and think this is a momentous occasion,” Dolly Hurtig said. “Especially since this kind of thing doesn’t happen very often on a college campus.” Trumel awarded Hurtig with the Palmes Académiques, or Academic Palms, which is the highest ranking award given to a teacher or professor of French involvment in the advancement of the French culture and education. The Legion of Honor award is the highest French distinction that can be given by the French government, and was created by Napoleon in 1804 to award his bravest soldiers said Trumel. “Mr. Hurtig is a knight and deserves to be honored,” Trumel said. “Robert and his daughter Dolly are real friends of France.” After being presented with his award, Hurtig gave his acceptance and thank you speech. “I thank President Francoise Holland for the honor and Gregor Trumel for giving me the opportunity to receive this award,” Hurtig said. “I’m very touched and thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
He said the festival was conceived through meetings over the summer with SGA and International Student leaders to host an event giving back to the community. “We were aiming at college students both serving and attending the event and then we did a big push toward the elementary schools,” Hussein said. “We were expecting reasonably 300 to 500, but in actuality it was 650 to 750.” The festival had different games, crafts, carnival foods, a photo booth and a candy table. “It was fun seeing how many people showed up and not just Tech students, just from the community,” said Logan Caskey, a member of Union Board and freshman mechanical engineering major. Hussein said the goal for next year’s Fall Festival is to have more activities and to have more campus and local organizations be involved.
HEY MORE TALK
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Y'ALL FROM THE MOUTH OF A SOUTHERN STUDENT
STORY | FREDEDREIA WILLIS • DESIGN | DEVIN DRONE TT
M
aybe its the thick Southern drawl, unlimited sweet tea or hospitality stereotypes that characterize the South as uniquely different from any other
region. Louisiana Tech students share their love for the southern lifestyles, as well as their views on how the South become its own culture. “I think the Southern hospitality came about because of the fact that the Northern cities were more industrial focused,” Eilie Slac said. “The southern communities were more focused on farming and agricultural lifestyles.” A junior family and child studies major, Slack said she thinks everyone learned to depend on each other through borrowing, trading and partnering. “That’s really how Southern hospitality came to be,” she said. “I "It's just a love the concept Southmore reerners have on being laxed atm osphere welcoming and the my than anyw house is your house here else in concept.” the countr Slack, who is origiy." nally from Virginia, said in the South -James Da vison, sop she has noticed how homore finance m much more relaxed ajor the community is, how open people are to having conversations and how welcoming they are toward others. “In Louisiana, you will have random people start conversations with you in the line at the grocery store and it’s perfectly normal,” she said, “Up north, they don’t talk to each other out in public and if you try to up a conversation with someone they may roll their eyes or even ignore you because it is not normal.” James Davison, a sophomore finance major, said he has noticed a huge difference in Southern people versus Northern people. “People in the South have a very low outer wall, as in we are so willing to let people in, but an extremely high inner wall, which means we are not open to telling people how we really feel,” he said. “But in the North it is the complete opposite.” He said a person living in the South is expected to act with Southern hospitality and if a person does not give in to the Southern ways then they would be labeled as an outsider. Davison said he adores being from the South and growing up with the Southern hospitality and traditions. “I love the hunting and fishing traditions we have, especially here in Sportsman Paradise,” he said. “It’s just a more relaxed atmosphere than anywhere else in the country.” Kaitlyn Meyers, said Southerners are taught to be more family oriented and having a welcoming spirit, which could have grown out of the Bible Belt and Christian ways. “I was raised in the South and as a Christian was taught to always be hospitable toward everyone,” she said. Meyers said she describes the South as more of an old time and traditional community. She said the South has not given up on traditions such as handwritten letters, addressing elders as Mr. and Mrs. and welcoming everyone with love.
November 5, 2015 • The Tech Talk • 7
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8 • The Tech Talk • November 5, 2015
Bulldogs prepare for Mean Green ALEX HEARD Staff Reporter | amh072@latech.edu
In football, the underdogs can sometimes beat the “big dogs.” The underdog comes into the game with nothing to lose. If they are not bowl-eligible, the team will view beating the favorite as a bowl game of sorts. The biggest flaw the “big dogs” have is looking past the weaker teams they play. For Head Coach Skip Holtz and the Louisiana Tech football team, their upcoming game is against an underdog they cannot afford to underestimate in North Texas. North Texas enters the game with a record of 1-7 while Tech comes in at 6-3, recently becoming bowl-eligible with a 42-17 victory last week at Conference-USA opponent Rice. Tech has a 4-1 conference record and cannot afford to lose any more games in order to have a shot at a trip to the C-USA Championship Game for the second year in a row. Holtz said despite having one win, North Texas is no team to underestimate as Tech nearly lost to another one win team. “I know everyone from the outside looks at (UNT’s) record at 1-7, but the other 1-7 team in our league, UTSA, is a team that we had to kick a field goal against on the last play of the game,” Holtz said. “(UNT) just beat UTSA. UTSA has one of the better defensive lines in the league, yet North Texas found a way to have two guys rush for over 100 yards.” Last week, Tech lost senior linebacker and team leader Nick Thomason indefinitely to a knee injury. Thomason is tied for the team lead with 11.5 tackles-for-loss. UNT recently made a change at quarterback to a more mobile asset in DaMarcus Smith, who is not afraid to tuck the ball and run in order to keep opposing defenses on their heels. Tech will need a replacement for Thomason to help corral Smith. Holtz said UNT’s offense has been impressive in recent games and is nothing to take lightly. “On offense, they had not scored 30 all year and then in two of the last three games, they have scored 28 and 30. They are getting better,” Holtz said. “They made some changes to the offense, including quarterback. They have a very athletic quarterback. He is the most athletic quarterback we have played to date. He has played in three games and rushed for over 100 yards in two of the three games. He is a really dynamic football player with the ball under his arm.” Holtz said Tech might have to use a linebackers-by-committee format. “We have one less than we had coming in. I do not know yet who will start,” Holtz said. “We are going to have to move the pawns around a little bit. We will have to put the pieces together and find the best combination. You have the guys who have played a backup role. With (Michael) Mims out and Nick Thomason out for right now, we do not know who will start. Brandon Durman will be in the race, as well as Russell Farris and (Dae’von) Washington. There will be a number
FROM THE SPORTS DESK with Matt Valcho
Consistency is the key
R Photo Courtesy of LA Tech Athletics Communications
Bulldogs wide reciever Carlos Henderson (1) looks up field after a catch against Rice in Houston on Oct. 30. Tech won the game 42-17.
Photo by Rick Yeates / North Texas Athletics
North Texas wide reciever Carlos Harris (9) dives into the endzone against Western Kentucky in Denton on Oct. 15. The Mean Green lost the game 55-28. of guys.” Jeff Driskel, senior quarterback for Tech, said UNT’s defense is a multiple set, as they complicate their schemes to disrupt opposing offenses, and will not be an easy opponent. “One thing I have noticed is that they are doing more things on defense,” Driskel said. “They were more four-down and quarter based. You know where they are going to be. Now they are
getting into some three-down fronts and moving guys around. They are trying to give the offense more looks and try to confuse the quarterback. They are coming off a win against a good UTSA team. We have a big challenge ahead of us. We know that we cannot overlook anyone because anybody can beat anybody on any given day.” Tech plays North Texas at 2:30 p.m. Saturday in Joe Aillet Stadium.
Three Lady Techsters earn C-USA honors NEWS SERVICES After helping Louisiana Tech to its second straight postseason tournament, a first in program history, Kathryn Sloan and Donya Salomon-Ali were selected to the All-Conference USA team as voted on by the 14 league head coaches. Sloan earned second team honors for the second consecutive season as she led Tech in points (22) and goals (nine) and tied for the most assists with four. Her total points and goals also ranked in the top five in C-USA. “Katie has worked hard this year and her progress as a player has been on a steep upward curve,” Tech coach Kevin Sherry said. “Her pace and work ethic is a great asset to the team when looking to play forward. She is well deserving of her nomination.” Five of the junior’s nine goals came during league play, three of them resulting in the gamewinner against Southern Miss, UTEP and UTSA. The Kansas City, Missouri, native is rapidly closing in on program records as the forward is currently tied for the second most career goals (27) and has the third most career points (66) Salomon-Ali earned second team honors as well, this time as a defender whereas last year she was named to the third team as a midfielder. The senior’s physical presence along the
back line and her ability to play in the air helped the Lady Techsters only allow 15 goals this season while producing eight shutouts, including four straight to end the season and help qualify for the league tourney. “Donya has been the rock of the team this season with her powerful heading and ball winning tackles,” Sherry said. “Her adaptability has been key for us playing in defense and as a striker when needed. It is great for Donya to receive this recognition at the end of her senior year.” A native of LaSalle, Quebec, Canada, she also registered two game-winning goals versus Arkansas State and Jackson State, helping her to earn a C-USA Defensive Player of the Week honor. Also receiving league honors was Mylene Roy-Ouellet who was named to the C-USA AllFreshman team, made up of 11 players. The striker made a huge impact right from the beginning, earning a player of the week honor by the conference in week one by scoring the game-winner in the season opener at ULM, followed by a two-goal performance against Lamar. “This is a great achievement for Mylene in her first season,” Sherry said. “The best of Mylene is yet to be seen however, and we foresee great things ahead as she develops her technical play and tactical awareness in future seasons.”
Photo by Colin Fontenot
Forward Kathryn Sloan (9) fights for position during the Lady Techsters match against Old Dominion on Sept. 25. Tech would go on to lose 2-1 in overtime.
ecent events in televised pro and college football games have brought the performances of referees to the public eye. Sure, almost every game you attend will have some problems, but it has never gotten to the point of being so bad and inconsistent that referee’s performances get their own segment on SportsCenter. Being a football official has to be stressful. Millions of people watch you do your job on a weekly basis and millions of dollars can change hands because of certain calls you make. Plus, you can’t forget the thousands of fans screaming at you. This shouldn’t affect these officials though. They’re supposed to be the best of the best. They’re hired by two of the biggest organizations in the sporting world - the NFL and the NCAA. You would think they would be prepared for what is coming their way. Unfortunately, that is not the case. The NFL has had many issues with officials, not only this season, but many seasons prior. The “Fail Mary,” “Dez Caught It” and Kam Chancellor’s illegal bat out of the end zone are just a few of the many examples of terrible officiating that has plagued the league. The NCAA is not immune to these issues either. This past weekend, with five seconds left on the clock, Duke kicked off to Miami hoping close out a win. What followed was probably one of the craziest endings to a college football game in history. After eight laterals, Miami ended up returning the kickoff for the game-winning touchdown. Only it shouldn’t have counted. The referees missed a Miami player’s knee being down which would have ended the game, as well as multiple blocks in the back made by the Hurricanes. They were suspended the next day. Officiating has become a major problem. Sure, nobody is perfect. But NFL and NCAA officials should be as close to perfect as humanly possible. Football is a way of life in this country. Who wins games should be decided by whom the better team was, not which team got unlucky when it came to officiating. Both leagues are multi-million dollar corporations; the least they could do is spend some money on better officials. Matt Valcho is a junior journalism major from Benton who serves as sports editor for The Tech Talk. Email comments to mvv002@latech.edu.