The Tech Talk 2.25.16 by The Tech Talk

MOVIE REVIEW

BELLES

THE

AND

BEAUX

WITCH

Read about how these student recruiters help prospective students.

In this Sundance horror film, evil haunts a family of New England colonists.

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MASTER PLAN 2020

Ruston’s Connection the final part of the campus expansion series discuses how Ruston and Tech plan to form a stronger link for the community.

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The

Tech Talk THE STUDENT VOICE OF LOUISIANA TECH UNIVERSITY

FEBRUARY 25, 2016

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VOLUME 90 • ISSUE 15

Journalism Dept. ranks at the Southeastern Journalism Conference PAYTON POTTER Staff Reporter | jpp017@ latech.edu

Photo provided by University Communications

TECH JOINS RALLY

President Guice and Louisiana tech took a bus of Tech students on Feb. 24 to participate in Higher Education Day at the state capitol. The rally was held at noon and was hosted by student body presidents from statewide colleges and universities.

Union Board hosts RusVegas casino night KEIERA BELL Staff Reporter | klb072@ latech.edu Some people find it frustrating not being able to gamble because they are underage. Tech’s Union Board found a simple solution to the problem and hosted their RusVegas event at 7 p.m. Feb. 16 in the Tonk for students to gamble, win prizes and have a good time. Kailee Courts, a Union Board member, said she liked the idea of having a casino themed event for students to participate in. “I think a lot of people like the RusVegas event so that they can come with their friends, gamble and win prizes,” said Courts, a senior French and journalism major. She said she helped serve on the committee to get things ready for the opening night. She also said the events the Union Board have hosted are usually really fun. “As a member of the Union Board, I love the idea and feel like it’s a fun way to give back to the students so that they can relax, eat free food and

Photo by Ashley Kober

Students play a game of Craps. just enjoy themselves,” Courts said. She said having the opportunity to help with the events on campus are fun and exciting because she likes to see people happy. Another Union Board member, Aaron Gregory, did his part in order to make RusVegas entertaining for Tech students.

Gregory, a junior kinesiology major, said before RusVegas’s opening night, he had to sign up for a specific time in order to receive his accreditation and had to go to a training session to work at the blackjack table.

>> see RUSVEGAS page 6

Three Louisiana Tech students along with three student media outlets won awards Friday in the Best of the South Competition 2015, a contest that ranks the top 10 journalism work in 30 categories from an eight-state region. The awards were given at the 30th annual convention of the Southeast Journalism Conference held at Austin Peay University in Clarksville, Tennessee, last weekend. Heading the list for Tech was The Tech Talk, winning second place Best College Newspaper and SPEAK Magazine, third place Best College Magazine. Other top 10 Tech winners were: Cody Sexton, second place Best Magazine Writer; John Sadler, seventh place Best Opinion/Editorial Writer; thetechtalk.org, ninth place Best College Website; and Rebekah Barnes, tenth place Best News Writer. In the SEJC on-site competition, Tech students placed as follows: John Sadler, 3rd place news writing, Rebekah Barnes, 3rd place feature writing and Matt Valcho, 3rd place best opinion/editorial writing. John Sadler said SEJC is important because it allows students to collaborate with peers. “SEJC is just a conference for student publication in southeastern states,” Sadler, features editor for The Tech Talk and Speak Magazine, said. “One of the best parts of it, I feel like, is the opportunity to meet other upcoming journalists and network with them.” Sadler said the conference allows student journalists to expand their relationships with other students. “If you do an internship, you’re networking with journalists in your region,” he said. “This gives you the chance to meet people that might work in Alabama or Florida. It stretches the distance of your connections.” Sadler said his favorite part of the conference was seeing The Tech Talk win second best newspaper in the region. “Everybody does put a lot of work into the paper and to see it pay off like that was really cool,” he said. Reggie Owens said the conference permits students to network with other like-minded students in the region. “Our field has been evolving technologically and procedurally every since I’ve been it,” said Owens, a professor of journalism. “It’s very important that we as mass media people collaborate with other people in our field to see what new things are going on and to get insight on how things can be done better.” Owens said SEJC plays an important role in exposing students to the work and procedures of other journalism students. “The interaction with peers is the most important part, I think,” he said. “You have to network if you’re going to advance in this field – or any field. SEJC gives you that opportunity to network.” Mike Leblanc, instructor and production specialist for Tech’s journalism department, said the conference allows students to share their work with other students.

>> see SEJC page 6

NEWS

2 • The Tech Talk • February 25, 2016

www.thetechtalk.org

Open Sewing event for residents KEIERA BELL Staff Reporter | klb072@latech.edu

The Fabric Shop in downtown Ruston held its Open Sewing event, Feb. 16 from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. in its shop classroom, which was open to anyone who wanted to be creative and loved to sew. Louise and Ron Adams have been in the fabric business for 32 years and said they have enjoyed every minute of it. Louise said The Fabric Shop is not just a business, but something she and her husband love to do and wants others to enjoy their time at the shop as well. “We have our open sewing class every Tuesday,” Louise said. “This way people can come learn how to sew or get help with their sewing projects.” She said Open Sewing is not a formal sewing class, but in order to participate, people must call or go online to sign up before attending. Adams said it is necessary to sign up first so she can make accommodations so everyone may have their own table, space to work and a sewing machine if they need to borrow one. Karen Humphrey is a worker and the teacher for the Fabric Shop’s sewing class

on Tuesdays. “I have a great time working here,” Humphrey said. “But it’s more like I’m playing than working.” She said when not working at her quilt shop, she spends her days off at The Fabric Shop. She said she likes being a teacher at the shop because everyone is doing something different. “I think people enjoy coming here to sew because it is an open atmosphere,” Humphrey said. She said most people who go to the Open Sewing class usually have their own kind of project they are comfortable with working on. However, she said some members who go and are working on big projects, such as a quilt, tend to encourage others to try something new. Jon Anne Winstead, a club member and frequent sewer, has been going to the Open Sewing class for about eight months. “I love it,” Winstead said. “We get to sew, eat food, be social and just laugh with each other.” Winstead said she loves to be with everyone, but said her only problem is she works at the courthouse and has to rush from the courtroom to make it in time to

Photo by Jonathan Shaul

Ron Adams shows the inside of one sewing machine and explains how it works. work on her sewing. “Overall, I think it’s wonderful to be able to bring projects, get help with it if needed, and see what others are doing,” Winstead said. She said, like others, she is only a beginner and enjoys being able to learn new

sewing techniques. The Open Sewing class is mostly adults, Adams said they also offer a sewing camp throughout the summer for kids to learn how to sew and do different projects, such as making pillow cases, hair accessories and pouches. “Sewing isn’t for only adults,” Adams

Ruston theater hosts play ‘The Diary of Anne Frank’ PRINCESS WARREN Staff Reporter |pcw005 Ruston Community Theatre welcomed the community to a night of heartfelt entertainment with their rendition of “The Diary of Anne Frank.” The play ran from Feb. 18-Feb. 21 at the Dixie Center for the Arts. Alma Moegle, who played the role of Anne Frank, said she hopes people just see the message within the play. “I hope they really understood more about the holocaust and how it affected people personally in their daily lives,” Moegle said. She also said she thinks people should come out and support the arts. “This is a great show in particular, and I think it’ll be enjoyable to all people who want to learn and like people who express themselves,” Moegle said. She said there are a few laughs in the play, but the play is a serious matter and she thinks the audience will find it enjoyable. Heather Peterson, who played the role of Edith Frank, Anne Frank’s mother, said she hopes audiences get a sense of realism. “We can do dramas all day, but to have something that actually happened have people almost experience something that happened in the past, that they can relate to what’s going on today,” Peterson said. She said Ruston Commu-

Photo by Ruston Kevin Cuccia

Alma Moegle as the titular character Anne Frank. nity Theatre creates a family and allows them to be able to give back and share with the community. “Not only do we give to the audience that comes to see us but we give to each other,” Peterson said. She also said the play may be emotional for some people because it allows them to truly experience an event from over 50 years ago and see what it was really like. “You can expect to be humbled, to come and actually feel something. I think that’s probably what’s different about this production from other shows,” Peterson said. Dusty Hampton, who played the role of Otto Frank, Anne Frank’s father, said he hopes the audience got to see the characters humanized through the play. “Normally when you go to the theatre you see something that’s false, it kind of sounds like a true story but of course it’s fake and made up,” Hampton said. “But this one is so real, these people

were real so you just kind of hope they see beyond the stage and see the people these characters were.” Hampton said Ruston really thrives on culture and what the arts have to offer the community. “There’s a lot to appreciate in the arts and normally people have to travel far to see things like that we offer here right in there backyard,” Hampton said. Hampton also said he has been guilty before of being one of those people who think less of events in Ruston, but he said there is a lot to offer in Ruston and people should take advantage of those events. “I cried just reading the script, it’s a very powerful piece,” Hampton said. He said for people who have or have not read the story before, to see the story unfold before their eyes is powerful. “You experience a whole new set of emotions watching it layout in front of you than just reading words on a page,” Hampton said.

UPCOMING EVENTS FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

• Job and Internship Search Strategies for Beginners 11 a.m. in Keeny Hall Room 337

• Baseball: LA Tech vs. UT Arlington 2 p.m.

• Softball: LA Tech vs. Lamar 11 a.m.

• No scheduled events

• Purge No. 1: Spring Quarter 2016 5 p.m.

• Softball: LA Tech vs. Jacksonville State 5 p.m.

• Baseball: LA Tech vs. UT Arlington 1 p.m.

• Faculty: Degree Candidate Grades Due Faculty BOSS by 3:30 p.m.

• Softball: LA Tech vs. Liberty 2:30 p.m.

• I-20 Corridor Regional Accelerator 5:30 p.m. in Universiry Hall

THURSDAY •Faculty: All Non-degree Candidate Grades Due on Faculty BOSS by 3:30 p.m. • Women’s Basketball: LA Tech vs. Marshall 6:30 p.m.

www.thetechtalk.org

February 25, 2016 • The Tech Talk • 3

LOUISIANA TECH UNIVERSITY

MASTER PLAN 2020 The final part of the series discusses how building a stronger connection with the Ruston community will bring students a better academic experience along with plans to renovate and construct new residence halls, academic buildings and to install a greener campus.

DOWNTOWN

THE RUSTON LINK

RUSTON

TECH GREEN

STORY | PAYTON POTTER DESIGN | ELLIE MOSLANDER

ABOVE: “Tech Green” and the new Enterprise campus will connect more with Ruston’s downtown area. BELOW: Different changes to campus will come together to form the Master Plan 2020.

TECH GREEN

ENTERPRISE CAMPUS

DOWNTOWN

SOUTH CAMPUS

RUSTON ACADEMICS TECH GREEN SOUTH CAMPUS

s the westernmost parts of Louisiana Tech’s campus evolve into the Enterprise Campus, the lines between campus and downtown Ruston will begin to blur. Jim King said the university and downtown Ruston aim to become unified. “Everyone envisions that the two entities will be more seamless,” said King, vice president for student advancement. “Where the university stops and the historic downtown ends will not be as clearly defined as it is developed.” King said he thinks the involvement and synergy between Tech and Ruston will help with recruiting. “I believe that good students will choose good universities, but it doesn’t stop there,” he said. “They look at the surrounding area, the amenities, the safety, the conveniences and the entertainment. That’s a part of their decision to come spend four or five years of their lives studying at a university.” King said one benefit of a stronger relationship between Tech and Ruston is the potential for increased diversity in the community. “If we start inviting students from 70 countries around the world, and they’re spending four or five years here, and they’re a part of our community and our school – sharing their culture – that’s a tremendous opportunity,” King said. Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker said the city intends to fund new infrastructure to accommodate the growth of the university pending the election of a proposal titled “Moving Ruston Forward.” “As Tech continues to grow, it is our job as a city to provide the infrastructure to make that possible,” he said. “To have a growing community, you’ve got to have the infrastructure – especially the streets.” Walker said “Moving Ruston Forward” is a 20-year, $120-million plan involving water lines, sewer lines, street and drainage rehabilitation, the creation of a new sports complex, animal shelter and bike trails throughout the city. “The first $80 million will

be raised in the first 10 years,” Walker said. “That’s huge for a city our size. It’s a bold and aggressive plan, but something we feel like we have to do to get us where we have to be.” Freshman family and child studies major Allison Hoskins said she thinks bike trails would give students a safer way to get to campus. “Riding on the roads is so dangerous, especially on bikes,” she said. “(Bike trails) will definitely make people feel more comfortable to get downtown on their bikes.” She said more integration between the city and university would encourage her to spend more time in downtown. “I would definitely go out to eat more and interact with people outside of campus,” Hoskins said. “Especially if there were more places like

“AS TECH CONTINUES TO GROW, IT IS OUR JOB AS A CITY TO PROVIDE THE INFRASTRUCTURE TO MAKE THAT POSSIBLE. TO HAVE A GROWING COMMUNITY, YOU’VE GOT TO HAVE THE INFRASTRUCTURE– ESPECIALLY THE STREETS.” – RONNY WALKER The Depot and Parish Press.” Walker said he is working to make Ruston the best it can be. “We want to be the greatest college town on I-20 from Dallas to Atlanta,” he said.”We’re already a great city; we want to be the greatest.” Walker said he encourages students to email him at mayor@ruston.org with their ideas for Ruston. “We are recruiting restaurants and fast food places to come here, but we need to know what students want,” he said. “They can’t throw an idea out that is too wild for me.”

For more information on Tech’s Master Plan 2020 visit http://www.latech.edu/masterplan

www.thetechtalk.org

4 • The Tech Talk • February 25, 2016

The

TechTalk MANAGEMENT

Graffiti is also art

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Ellie Moslander

MANAGING EDITOR Rachel Maxwell

NEWS EDITOR

Frededreia Willis

FEATURE EDITOR John Sadler

SPORTS EDITOR

Matthew Valcho

PHOTO EDITOR

Brian Blakely

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Colin Fontenot Devin Dronett Ashley Kober Avery Bryan Jonathan Shaul

ADVERTISING MANAGER Taylor Loftin

ADVISERS

Dr. Reginald Owens T. Scott Boatright Dr. Judith Roberts

ADVERTISING ADVISER Michael LeBlanc

PRODUCTION MANAGER Michael LeBlanc

ADVERTISING PRODUCTION Michael LeBlanc

SUBSCRIPTIONS

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

ELLIE MOSLANDER Editor-In-Chief | emo012@latech.edu

rtistic expression is under constant attack. Many people believe art is restricted to certain media. Art can mean different things to various individuals and how they choose to express their art doesn’t downgrade the fact that it is art. Even though graffiti is a form of vandalism, we should not always look at it in a completely negative way. In certain circumstances when it is clear it has involved the desecration of a public or private place with the intention of harming the property, then this definitely is not art. But there are instances when the artist is using the environment as art to benefit the environment. Instead of looking down on these street artists and their art, we should look at the message they are preaching and appreciate their perspective of using urban life in art. The well-known English street artist Banksy not only creates street art, but is also a political activist who displays opinions through what soci-

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

NEWSROOM 318.257.4946 EMAIL techtalk@latech.edu ADVERTISING 318.257.4949 EMAIL techtalkads@latech.edu DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION AND MEDIA STUDIES JOURNALISM CONCENTRATION 318.257.4427

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

The Tech Talk welcomes letters to the editor. However, we reserve the right not to print anonymous letters. We also ask that each letter be accompanied by a telephone number, address and classification or title. We will not print the telephone number. Viewpoints should be mailed or brought to The Tech Talk office, 138 Keeny Hall, by 4 p.m. the Friday prior to a Thursday publi cation. Letters should be mailed to The Tech Talk, P.O. Box 10258, Ruston, LA 71272. Emails should be sent to techtalk@latech.edu. You can also submit letters online at www.thetechtalk.org/home/ lettertotheeditor/. Louisiana Tech University is com mitted to the principle of provid ing the opportunity for learning and development of all qualified citizens without regard to race, sex, religion, color, national origin, age, disability, marital status, or veteran status for admission to, participation in, or employment in the programs and activities which the University sponsors or operates. For Title IX information, see University Policy #1445 at http://www.latech. edu/administration/policiesand procedures/1445.shtml.

ety considers graffiti. Banksy is not the only street artist who has done this, but Banksy has traveled all over the world leaving an artist’s mark in various cities and countries. This is a unique thing about street art and graffiti; it can travel. It can also remain in the same place for many different people to see at points in life. Street art often preaches messages of anti-government, political issues and anti-commercialism, giving the artist a visual voice. There are also many beautiful street art illustrations. It ultimately includes a wide range of artistic expression, giving artists an urban public canvas. It’s not necessarily desecration if you do not view it in this way. Although it is art, it is still illegal and considered damage to public and private property. I’m not encouraging everyone to go out and graffiti their homes and other public property just for fun, but I do think just because it is illegal it should not be discredited as artwork. It is merely another form and outlet for these artists.

Art has always evolved throughout history and street art is just a modern branch of a new art form. This art form could be considered as a new cultural movement with art and celebrating the integration of old art forms (buildings and structures) and new media outlets (spray paint and other graffiti). No matter what it is, one cannot argue the majority of graffiti has a strong statement. I would assume the artists vision was for the world to know because of choosing to put it in a public location rather than on a lone canvas. Graffiti and street art have begun to be recognized by the artistic community in recent years, but still receive flack in some instances. Also, street art does not simply involve spraying paint onto a wall; a lot more extensive work and tools are used to create these pieces of art. We should all celebrate all forms of artwork and respect the message the artist is trying to convey. Ellie Moslander is a senior journalism major from Albuquerque who serves as editor-in-chief for The Tech Talk.

SADLER ON UP

PUBLICATION

The Tech Talk (USPS 535540) is published Thursdays of the regu lar school year, except in vacation and examination periods, by the Journalism Department of Loui siana Tech University. Publication office is in Keeny Hall, Room 138.

GUEST OPINION

FROM THE EDITOR

Bush burns out JOHN SADLER Features Editor| jts040@latech.edu

low and steady doesn’t always win the race. Jeb Bush, popularly seen as the conventional, safe candidate, announced the suspension of his campaign Saturday. He had long espoused his “slow and steady wins the race” philosophy, recently beginning to give children small toy turtles at his speaking events. Bush, whose name and experience had him billed as the establishment candidate, was unable to build up the momentum to surpass such unconventional candidates as Donald Trump and Ted Cruz. Ultimately, it was Bush’s lack of charisma that failed to differentiate him from the one-time gargantuan number of Republican candidates. Marco Rubio’s youth, Cruz’s evangelicalism and the outsider status of Trump and neurosurgeon Ben Carson all proved to be far more in-

teresting to voters than an establishment Republican like Jeb. Trump’s entrance into the race threw Bush for a loop. Used to the relatively civilized (at least on the surface) politics of Washington, Bush was incapable of engaging Trump on his own level, and when he did it came off as a flailing attempt to keep the top spot. Bush was the conventional army versus Trump’s guerilla forces. He wasn’t outgunned as much as he was outmaneuvered. Trump used Bush as a scapegoat not only for his brother George’s failed policies, but also for the Republican party as a whole, dragging him through the mud as an example of an out-of-touch politician pretending to be of the people. Bush’s inability to truly get angry led many potential voters to agree with Trump’s vision of him as weak. It’s hard to make the civilized option seem preferable when there’s a man yelling out the same views so many

voters have suppressed for fear of being called “politically correct.” Bush was one of the most politically correct candidates running in the GOP primaries. He tore apart Trump’s plan to ban all Muslims and was more involved in courting the Latino vote than Cruz, whose father was a Cuban émigré. It will be interesting to see exactly how this election will affect the GOP. Currently, the two frontrunners are currently a billionaire reality television star and a furiously evangelical Tea Partier. Fiscal conservatism, one of the party’s defining characteristics, is being ignored for religiously-based social policies and dismissively racist foreign policy. The candidates’ audience is changing. You have to know your audience, and Jeb did not. John Sadler is a senior journalism major from Extension who serves as features editor for The Tech Talk.

TAKE IT FROM DEDE

Fatherless daughter syndrome FREDEDREIA WILLIS News Editor | flw005@latech.edu

hose father-daughter dances, those moments after your first heartbreak, those daddydaughter dates are just a few of the things girls like us miss out on. Some people believe those moments are not as important, and a girl may not be scarred until adulthood or even a lifetime. I believe that though a physical father on earth is needed for every girl, those of us who had to grow up without one are strong individuals. We are strong because of the weak moments we had wondering if you were ever going to come take us to a movie or out for ice cream – you never came. We are strong because we have watched our mothers, who had to be both the mother and the father. Fatherless daughter syndrome is real and alive today. Because of an absent father, we

have a tougher time with relationships. We often unwillingly look at our partners as fathers. We look to be praised by a male since you were never there to give it. We hope to be cared for by a male, because you never cared enough to stick around and teach us that we matter, we are beautiful and we are worthy. But do not be sad, do not be sorry; we forgive you and we know that we are loved. We understand that everyone makes mistakes, but after awhile, even the biggest coward must acknowledge his creation. But as fatherless daughters, we thank you with sincere and genuine hearts. Thank you for teaching us how to look for a guy who is willing to love. Thank you for pushing us to pursue a man who is going to be a good father to our daughters. We thank you for being absent (though our hearts are heavy) so that

we may truly understand the cruelty of the world at such a young age. We will never forget those moments waiting and wanting you to be in our lives. We will remember those moments our mothers cried and tried so hard to be present because of your absence. And the questions we fear, but want to hear you ask anyway, “Am I too late?” and “Am I forgiven?” Yes, you are forgiven; yes, you are loved; and yes, you are too late. You are too late to see the moments I shared that reminded my mom of you. You are too late to see the time everyone looked at me weirdly because I did something funny, which I inherited from you. But you are not too late to see me walk down the aisle, with only strength on my arm where you would have been. Frededreia Willis is a junior journalism major from Lake Providence who serves as news editor for The Tech Talk.

Edwards on academic budget cuts S

JOHN BEL EDWARDS

tudents in Louisiana deserve better than what they’ve gotten from their state government over the last eight years. I’ll be the first to tell you that. The previous administration put the needs of an out-of-state special interest ahead of your own and made you pay the price for a political agenda. That stopped on Jan. 11. Unfortunately, the damage was done. Over the last eight years, higher education institutions were severely weakened and Louisiana’s budget now sits atop the largest deficit our state has ever seen. Year after year, these budget deficits were patched using budget tricks and temporary funds. The state wrote checks to corporations it couldn’t afford, which left students with higher tuitions and campuses unable to invest in your education. In fact, Louisiana ranks fourth in the nation for subsidies to big business, double what the state of Texas pays, yet our higher education institutions were cut by more than $700 million – the largest disinvestment in the nation. Today, we’re faced with two dramatically different choices in Louisiana – bring in additional revenue or make deeper cuts to higher education that will force campus closures, class cancellations, and jeopardize the highly popular TOPS scholarship – a program I’ve fought year after year to protect. The $940 million shortfall this year that must be fixed in four months and the $2 billion shortfall for next year will need to be addressed with a combination of spending cuts and additional revenue – doing one without the other would be irresponsible. I have called the Louisiana Legislature into a special legislative session to address these challenges, and I have proposed several measures to avoid devastating cuts to our universities and community and technical colleges. Unfortunately, because of the mismanagement of the state’s finances over the last eight years, higher education will face, in a best-case scenario, $70 million in cuts very soon. However, if the legislature does not work with my administration to bring in additional revenue, those cuts will increase to a catastrophic $200 million before June. Next year, that number is even bigger. The TOPS program is already operating this year at a shortfall to the tune of $28 million. I have directed the universities to absorb those costs, preventing students from having to pay for someone else’s reckless budgeting. However, next academic year, the program, if underfunded, will award scholarships to far fewer students – both current recipients and those expecting the award next year. I have outlined several proposals to avoid these cuts. While I do not like the plans that I have proposed, they are necessary to begin the process of reinvesting in our young adults and universities. Your support is critical in this process. There are some in the legislature who are only interested in playing political games – who are determined to make our state capitol look like Washington, D.C. I refuse to let that happen. I refuse to fail you, our students and young adults, in that way. Louisiana’s future depends on you getting a quality education that will land you a good job here at home. We’ve already seen too many of our young adults leave Louisiana for jobs and education in other states. That cycle must end. Together, we can rebuild the future of Louisiana.

February 25, 2016 • The Tech Talk • 5

www.thetechtalk.org

RITUALIZE LUSHLIFE

ELLIE MOSLANDER Editor-in-Chief | emo012@latech.edu

Anya TaylorJoy stars as Thomasin in Robert Eggers’ disturbing horror flick.

THE WITCH

Rooks Nest Entertainment

RACHEL MAXWELL Managing Editor | ram049@ latech.edu “The Witch” was not what I was expecting when I walked into the theater. As someone who has seen her fair share of horror movies, I was anticipating all the usual cinematic and musical tricks to maximize audience members’ heart rates. However, “The Witch” felt more like a drama than your usual horror film. In fact, I forgot I was watching one between the scenes that weren’t graphically horrific. That isn’t to say the movie was bad, or that it was not scary. It was good – really

good – and when it did go for the scare, it hit the mark; some scenes were so disturbing they are still making me cringe as I write this review. Robert Eggers’ work showed, and his attention to detail paid off. Much of the dialogue was taken from actual witch trial transcripts, and the accuracy of the writing along with the costumes and family dynamic made it feel like a film about the 1600s, not just a pilgrim-themed slasher flick. While horror movies tend to go cheesy, “The Witch” maintained its legitimacy throughout the film. The performances were

strong all around, especially considering how young some of the actors were, how dark some of the scenes were and how antiquated the dialogue was. Though much of the dialogue was hard to understand, I was able to keep up with what was going on because the intent of the characters’ exchanges were so clearly portrayed by the actors. While the film definitely stands on its own without the “jump factor” achieved by most scary movies, it is missed. There were several points that felt like a jumping off point for a series of good scares but stopped short every time.

PAINTING WITH ANIMAL COLLECTIVE

ELLIE MOSLANDER Editor-in-Chief | emo012@ latech.edu The experimental indie band Animal Collective’s new album “Painting With” was simply not all it could have been. Members Avery Tare (David Portner), Geologist (Brian Weitz), Panda Bear (Noah Lennox) and Deakin (Josh Dibb) came together to produce a decent album, but not anything mind blowing like previous albums have been. At first the album did not seem very significant, but it does eventually begin to grow on you. Most of Animal Collective’s albums leave you with a bittersweet nostalgic feeling of unforgettable times with friends. The band has always had a way of reminding us we are still young, to cherish those times and enjoy life while also pursuing an individual journey of self-exploration. Their 2005 album “Feels” expresses celebrates being young and the brotherhood one shares with close friends through traveling, drinking and experimenting with dif-

GOOD Music/Def Jam Recordings

ferent kinds of drugs. This band has never been afraid to be unique, out there and honest about their music and perspectives on life. Many of their fans feel more for the band than just their music, as most of their albums and lyrics go beyond simply listening to and making listeners think about life. “Painting With” however fell short of this, not fully living up to its expectations. While most of their songs are known to be a little more on the out there side, most of their albums normally have at least one catchier song. “Painting With” mostly includes songs that bring out Animal Col-

The lack of gimmicks leading up to scares did perhaps lend to unsettled feeling I had leaving the theater. Because none of the gore crossed the line into cheesy scares, the events felt more realistic and were more disconcerting. If you are expecting a movie that will make you jump in your seat and grab your date in fear, you may be disappointed. However, “The Witch” is a movie worth seeing and deserving of the Best Director award it received at Sundance Film Festival. The gore is grisly and well done, and the plot line is interesting without becoming gimmicky.

lective’s more unusual side, as each song feels like it is taking you on a trip to another dimension. “ForiDada” starts off the album as a fun song with a catchy beat. “Lying in the Grass” uses different elements in a subtle way like the saxophone, which is a really nice touch, because it is different from the more electronic aspects of the song. “Golden Gals” is also a good song about finding the perfect girl. Although this song, along with many others on the album, sound very similar to previous Animal Collective songs. They are able to introduce new methods making it instead the same band displaying how they can sound the same, but different enough to keep people listening. Many of the songs on the album become better after listening to them more than once. As with many of Animal Collective songs, it is hard to decipher what all is going when first listening because of all of the musical elements the band incorporates into each song. It seems the band‘s intention is for people to reflect on the music and the lyrics, taking on a different meaning each time the song is played. This album is not necessarily the band’s best work, but it still is a testament to the band’s talent and passion for their music and what they consider to be important aspects of being human.

With the Philadelphia rapper Lushlife’s third album “Ritualize,” he has branched out from solely self-produced work and it shows. It’s obvious he was trying to experiment with a lot of new elements and collaborations, but it’s hard to tell if Atlantic Records he executed it well or not. Some songs are pretty catchy, but others are also pretty forgettable and nothing really unique stands out about them. Lushlife included many other artists in this album such as Killer Mike, Ariel Pink and RJD2. Songs like “Hong Kong (Lady of Love)” has a heavier, overall catchier beat while included an ‘80s jazz feel towards the end. “Toynbee Suite” is one of the album’s better songs, as it is over seven minutes of combined musical elements working very well together. This song also features the most outside artists in one song, with RJD2, Yikes the Zero and Nightlands. The song also has a meaning of desiring to make the world different, while opposing various authority and media figures. It shows Lushlife’s discontentment with the media and how things are being handled in today’s society as one-line chants: “Murder every journalist. They won’t hear a word of it. Tell ‘em what I could see in the asphalt. They heard of it. Why David Mamet don’t lie. You deserving it, spitting truth in the cracks of the asphalt, they heard of it.” Basically he believes everything we believe is a lie because society is corrupt. “Ritualize” is a collaboration between different artists, fulfilling the rappers vision for a collective work of art while also preaching a message about modern society and the role a person plays in it. An intermission song, “Undress Me in the Temple,” shows how Lushlife is not afraid. He pushes the line when making a statement and realizations he has had about life, religion and society as a whole simply by the title. Songs like “Strawberry Mansion,” a collaborative work Lushlife produced with Freeway, simply serve as filler music, but luckily the album only has a few songs like these. Overall, Lushlife did a decent job with this album, even though he is moving away from his usual self-produced work It seems like he had a really great vision for this album and at times it was executed really well, but ultimately it could have been a lot stronger. Even with all of the collaboration work, it was mediocre.

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6 • The Tech Talk • February 25, 2016

WEEKLYHOROSCOPE www.horoscopes.com.net

Aries March 21 – April 19 None of your friends may be at home today, Aries, and so you probably won’t be able to have any phone conversations or visits with them. This could cause you to feel rather lonely. You might brood a little and convince yourself that no one cares about you any more. Snap out of it! You know full well this isn’t the case. Read or watch videos until someone rings you up, and they will! Taurus Apr 20 - May 20 Today you might find yourself compelled to stay at home for some reason, Taurus. Perhaps you’re expecting a visitor who’s late or a delivery of some kind. Therefore, you could feel somewhat antsy. You like staying home, but only if you choose to do so. Find something creative to fill the time you have to spend waiting. That might make you feel as if you’re choosing even if you aren’t. Gemini May 21 - Jun 20 Construction on streets or buildings might make it difficult for you to get around your neighborhood today, Gemini. Traffic could be backed up for blocks. If you must run errands, either walk or get them done early in the day. The work could foul up the phone lines as well, at least for a while, so you might miss some calls you needed to take. This could be a frustrating day. Keep yourself busy at home. Cancer Jun 21 - Jul 22 Disappointment in a prominent public figure you’ve always admired could cause an ethical crisis today, Cancer. You might find yourself doubting beliefs and values that you’ve accepted without question for most of your life. Bear in mind that this is actually a healthy process. By tomorrow you’ll probably have made peace with yourself, and should have done some growing up in the meantime. Hang in there! Leo Jul 23 - Aug 22 A lack of contact between you and a romantic partner could have you feeling rather depressed today, Leo. You might be tempted to jump to the erroneous conclusion that your beloved no longer cares about you and that’s why your phone isn’t ringing. Don’t fall into this trap. If you try to be objective, you’ll realize that this isn’t true. Chances are that your friend was held up in some way and will call as soon as there’s an opportunity. Virgo Aug 23 - Sep 22 You tend to be very intuitive, Virgo, but today your channel to the other side could appear to be totally blocked. You can’t sense what others are feeling, and oracles like the I Ching just don’t make sense any more. You may try to fall back on logic, but that doesn’t work today either. Don’t think this is a permanent situation, however. Your

mental biorhythms are low. You should be back to normal in a few days. Libra Sep 23 - Oct 22 You’re usually a hard worker, Libra, whether the work involves a job, personal project, or simply chores around the house. Today, however, you’re going through a fit of laziness. Chances are you don’t want to do a thing except lie around and read or watch TV. It’s OK. We all need time to let our hair down and relax. Don’t suffer undue guilt because you don’t feel like working. Scorpio Oct 23 - Nov 21 Today you just might want to cut yourself off from the world and hide, Scorpio. Your backyard or bedroom seems especially attractive right now, and you might have just purchased a new paperback that you’re dying to read. You won’t even feel like sharing a meal with the rest of the household. Don’t worry about this. We all want some time alone occasionally. Your family should understand. Sagittarius Nov 22 - Dec 21 A friend or relative might propose some travel, Sagittarius, but today you don’t even want to think about going to the grocery store. You won’t feel much like talking to anyone, either. Your mind is probably on intellectual or metaphysical matters. You could just want to stay home and study those subjects all day. Tell your friend the idea of traveling sounds great and you’ll discuss it later. That’s all you can manage right now. Capricorn Dec 22 - Jan 19 Gloom may settle upon you today when you face your financial situation, Capricorn. You may have had a lot of bills to pay, and thus your coffers could be a bit low for your liking. Still, this is only temporary, and it probably feels good to have the bills out of the way. Find something inexpensive, like reading, to keep you busy and get your mind off it. You’re probably doing fine! Aquarius Jan 20 - Feb 18 This morning you might look in the mirror and be horrified at what you see, Aquarius. You’ve been working hard and are stressed out, so you probably look tired. You’re apt to blow it all out of proportion, however, and think you look a lot worse than you actually do. Treat yourself to some new clothes and a walk, and then get some rest. Tomorrow you’ll probably look as terrific as ever. Hang in there.

CROSSWORDPUZZLE Across 1. Lao.___ 4. Beat it! 9. Land’s end? 14. Curse 15. “All My Children” vixen 16. Island in the Bay of Naples 17. We ___ the World 18. Full of substance 19. Actor Bean 20. Foosball and billiards place? 23. ___ silly question... 24. Black gold! 25. Mildness 28. See ya! 30. Banned spray 33. Surface 34. Silage storage tower 35. One with will power? 36. School VIP position 39. Whole bunch 40. Anger 41. Brewery kilns 42. Slugger Mel 43. Clip 44. Clawed 45. Magician’s prop 46. Spanish muralist 47. County in central England 54. Wispy clouds 55. Religious doctrine 56. Sun. talk 57. Desert havens 58. Win by ___ 59. Trail the pack 60. Take away by force 61. Sandal part 62. Two-time U.S. Open

champ Down 1. ___ she blows! 2. Withered 3. Suit 4. Academic session 5. Dilapidated 6. Lasso 7. Broadway opening 8. Deli spread 9. Smelting residue 10. Winter air 11. Lhasa ___ 12. Senior moment? 13. German “a” 21. Elevated 22. ___ your life! 25. Rope 26. Belch 27. Try to bite 28. Name 29. Not aweather 30. Thick 31. Judicial rulings 32. Lovers’ meeting 34. Huff 35. Fireside 37. Steamed 38. Threshold 43. Bigot 44. Singer Brewer 45. Takes on 46. Toledo title 47. Storyteller 48. Limerick language 49. RR stops 50. Canvas shelter used on camping trips 51. Castaway’s home

DAILY U

52. Unfeigned 53. Units of work 54. Female bovine

LAST ISSUE’S SOLUTION

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

Pisces Feb 19 - Mar 20 Something could happen during the day that unconsciously reminds you of something unpleasant that happened to you in the past, Pisces. You might not even remember today’s event, but memories of the occurrence long ago could plague you throughout the day and put you in a very black mood. Try to analyze why this memory affects you so much. Then when you know, let it go. You might feel as if a heavy weight has been lifted off your shoulders.

WEEKLYWEATHER

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TODAY

FRIDAY

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TUESDAY

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HIGH 60 LOW 31

HIGH 60 LOW 34

HIGH 68 LOW 47

HIGH 71 LOW 54

HIGH 72 LOW 55

HIGH 58 LOW 58

HIGH 59 LOW 35

SUDOKUPUZZLE 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.

RUSVEGAS from pg. 1

Photo by Ashley Kober

Students crowd around a table for a game of poker.

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“This event probably isn’t see other people while still doing comparable to a real casino, but something they can get into and it is a fun way to get away from enjoy.” studying, have a casino-like exPerry said the events are a perience and gamble,” Gregory good way for students to get insaid. volved and socialize He said the RusVewith others on camgas event was excelpus, but he said he lent, although some does not go to most other events do not Union Board events. always have the best He said most of turnouts. Gregory said the time Union Board it was good to see how has events on camstudents enjoyed the pus, he does not know events. about them until the Jordan Perry, a selast minute. nior psychology major, “I think they should said it was his first time do better advertisPERRY attending an event like ing weeks before the RusVegas. He said the event,” Perry said. event was a lot smaller than he “That way it would be more imagined, but was still very nice. helpful for students in case they “The casino idea does not have some kind of conflicting bother me as much,” Perry said. engagements in the future they “It gives students a chance to want to reschedule.”

SEJC from pg. 1

““It’s great when our students get the chance to showcase the skills they’ve obtained through working with The Tech Talk and the journalism department,” LeBlanc said. “SEJC gives our students the opportunity to experience what students at other universities are producing. It is extremely important for the students to stay aware of what other students are doing and to share ideas. “ Owens said he is proud to see so many students making their mark at the conference. “I think, all in all, we’ve done well and we do well. It says a lot to see Tech journalism ranking up there with the big schools, and the small schools, in the south.”

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February 25, 2016 • The Tech Talk • 7

More Talk

SO YOU WANT TO BE a

ulldog

The Bulldog Belles and Beaux aid Tech in student-athlete recruiting

CALEB DANIEL Staff Reporter | csd020@latech.edu Football recruiting may seem like a coaches-only job, but over the past few seasons at Louisiana Tech, the Bulldog Belles and Beaux have become a regular part of the process. “Coaches can talk football, but they don’t know what everyday life is like for the students,” said Madison Kaufman, director of player recruitment for Belles and Beaux. “We do, and we can relate to them in a different way than the coaches can.” Bulldog Belles and Beaux began as a spirit group in 2012, and now its members serve as tour guides and friendly faces for athletic recruits on their campus visits. Leslie Brister, founder and current faculty adviser of the Bulldog Belles and Beaux, said she and a group of her fellow student recruiters came up with NEELY the idea for the group. “We had a big love for Tech and appreciation for what the Tech family had done for us,” Brister said. “Volunteering at an athletic event opened our eyes to all these different facets of recruiting and alumni organizations that needed helpers.” Brister, who graduated in biology at Tech, said the model for the organization was patterned after similar groups at major universities such as Texas BRISTER A&M and Florida State. She said the Tech group has advanced rapidly in the past few years. “It’s cool to see how we started with about 10 students, and we’ve grown to about 40 members now,” Brister said. “We get to branch out and do a lot more things than we did at first.” The group is busiest when helping with official and unofficial football recruiting: pairing up with potential players, checking them in, and giving them campus tours. Preslie Neely, Belles and Beaux president, said they help recruits and their families glide through the visitation process “We make the transition a little bit easier for them,” she said. “The parents are more comfortable because they can ask questions to students who aren’t paid by the university. We can give them a more honest input and tell them how it really is.” Through regular events such as “Cookie Thursday,” Neely said Belles and Beaux continue to serve the players once recruiting is behind them. “Our work doesn’t stop once they’ve committed,” said

Submitted photo

Neely, a junior biology major. “We’re involved with the players on a regular basis. They can get burnt out on football, and we get to try to give some of their passion back to them.” With the official recruiting season wrapping up in January, it is now time for the Belles and Beaux to begin recruiting to fill their own ranks. Their spring interest meeting is March 16, followed by interviews on March 17, 18, and 21. More information can be found on the organization’s social media pages. Neely said that with only half-hour weekly meetings and a few required work hours before a home game, the Belles and Beaux offer a high return on a small investment. “We know you’re a student first,” she said. “You see such difference just from the short time that you spend. We don’t ask a whole lot, but the reward is high.” Neely also said the relationships she forms with the football team is one of the most fulfilling parts of her work. “I get to know all the players in a way that I never would have from the bleachers, and that helps me cheer them on,” she said. Kaufman, a freshman communication major, said the Belles and Beaux helps unify the university under the love of sports. “It’s a cool way to give back and invest in the university,” she said. “No matter who you are, we all love Bulldog sports, and it’s something we can all bond over.”

Our work doesn’t stop once they’ve committed. We’re involved with the players on a regular basis. They can get burnt out on football, and we get to try to give some of their passion back to them.” Preslie Neely

Belles and Beaux president

www.thetechtalk.org

8 • The Tech Talk • February 25, 2016

Lady Techsters off to historic start ALEX HEARD Staff Reporter | amh072@latech.edu

Photo by Darrell James

Freshman Preslee Gallaway threw 18 scoreless innings during the LA Tech Invitational. Her performance earned her C-USA Player of the Week honors.

Junior Pauline Tufi batted in three of the Lady Techsters’ five runs against Texas State in the finals of the LA Tech Invitational.

Photo by Wes Harris

Sophomore Katie Smith is greeted by her teammates after hitting a solo home run against Lipscomb in the Sand Dollar Classic on Feb. 13. The Techsters went on to win the game 6-4 and finished the tournament with a 3-1 record.

Louisiana Tech softball is off to its best start in 15 years. Tech is 8-2 with wins over programs such as Texas State, Jackson State and Lipscomb University. For head coach Mark Montgomery and his staff, there are key factors going into such an impressive 10 game stretch. One is the play of freshman pitcher Preslee Gallaway, who recently was named Conference-USA Pitcher of the Week. Gallaway has pitched multiple seven inning shutouts. Montgomery said the play of the pitching staff, particularly Gallaway, has been key to Tech’s remarkable start so far this season. “Our pitching staff has been impressive,” Montgomery said. “(In the offseason) I knew we had potential but we have done so well – we are meeting our potential. Preslee Gallaway has stepped up and been huge for us.” Anna Cross, a senior infielder, said Gallaway’s mature attitude from the get-go has contributed to her success. “Preslee is a tough one,” Cross said. “She does everything you tell her. She is dedicated and focused. She is one of those girls who can take the heat. She has come in strong as a freshman and has been something else.” Montgomery said the team’s togetherness and chemistry is another reason for their strong start. “We have a very strong environment and a family atmosphere,” Montgomery said. “I have always thought the stronger a team’s environment, the better the team and that has most definitely been the case.” Cross said Tech has put a focus on team chemistry this season and it’s played dividends for them. “Recently we have had a lot of team bonding,” Cross said. “We have had bonfires and sleepovers. I feel like this year we are really focusing on the chemistry. Communication is key and is one of the big things we are focusing on as well. We are much closer this year.” Cross’s play has been huge, too. She has consistently batted runs in and has gotten off to a hot start. Montgomery said Cross’s play has been outstanding and clutch. “Anna has been stellar,” Montgomery said. “She has started hot (each game) and has played with perseverance and determination. She has had some clutch RBIs.” Cross said her play has been special because as a senior she wants to give the team everything she has. “This is my last year and I really want to do it for a team that is dedicated,” Cross said. “We all came in with that mindset that this is the year that we are going to get it done. The more years that go by, the better our mindset. We are all getting on the same track so get on the train or get off. We have to keep moving forward.” The Lady Techsters kick off the LA Tech Classic today against Grambling State at 5 p.m. The team will also play against Liberty on Friday at 2:30 p.m., Jacksonville State on Saturday at 5 p.m. and Lamar on Sunday at 10 a.m. All games will be played at the Lady Techster Softball Complex on campus.

Tennis dominates in strong start to season ALEX HEARD Staff Reporter | amh072@latech.edu Louisiana Tech women’s tennis has not only played well to start the season – they have been dominant. Tech is 9-2 this season with five of the nine wins being shutouts. Some of the wins includes Northwestern State, Sam Houston State and Stephen F. Austin, in which Tech ended the Lumberjacks unbeaten home streak. Chad Camper, head coach, said despite not every player on the team always playing up to her potential, they are still finding ways to get it done, thanks in some part to Mother Nature. “We have had some good weather,” Camper said. “Not every match does six and seven girls play amazing, but they have been finding a way to win.” Senior Alexandra Starkova said this year’s team has a lot of fight, and their grit has led to these spectacular outings. “It has been a great season since the beginning,” Starkova said. “We are fighting all the time. It does not matter if we are down or up, we are trying to prove every single day as much as we can.” Starkova is Tech’s most seasoned and successful player. For three years running, she has been on the all-conference team, with success in both singles and doubles. Starkova said because of her experience, she has no other choice but to lead and lend an open ear to those younger players who need advice.

“As a senior I try to help them as much as I can,” Starkova said. “I have experience so I know which way they have to go and which way is not the right way. To fight every single point and try to do your best on the court.” Camper said though the record does not seem like the team is flawed Tech still has growing pains. “We need to work being a little more wellrounded at every position but that comes in time,” Camper said. “We have some young and new players on the team, but the upperclassman have been leading the way.” Starkova said even with the growing pains she is extremely impressed by how well the younger players have played. “I think Coach Camper did a great job recruiting these new players,” Starkova said. “They have started very consistently. And they know what to do in each moment on the court.” Starkova said the hardest part of the team’s schedule is ahead of them and she looks forward to it. “We have some big games coming up,” Starkova said. “TCU and Rice are big games. Georgia State will be huge since we are playing at their house and I have to be really motivated.” Tech plays at Southern Mississippi at 11 a.m. March 5 in the first match of a lengthy road trip. The Lady Techsters will face off against South Alabama, Georgia State, Kennesaw State, Southern Methodist and Texas Christian on the road before returning to Ruston on April 5 to face Tyler Junior College and New Orleans.

Photo by Donny Crowe/LA Tech Communications

Head coach Chad Camper speaks to his team prior to the Lady Techsters’ match against Northwestern State on Feb. 5.