The Tech Talk 9.22.16 by The Tech Talk

UB HOSTS FALL FLING Union Board annual kickoff event hits Tech

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SEPTEMBER 22, 2016

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VOLUME 91 • ISSUE 1

Tech identified as ‘rising star’ in recent study KACIE KAUFMAN Staff Reporter | kjk019@latech.edu

Photo courtesy of Danny Do

A candlelight luminary closed out “No Place Like Hope” at the Lady of the Mist.

‘No Place Like Hope’ event tackles suicide STARLA GATSON Staff Reporter | sjg021@ latech.edu

Members of Louisiana Tech’s student body were invited to hear and share stories of encouragement at the “No Place Like Hope: Bulldogs for Suicide Prevention” event. The event was hosted by No Place Like Hope, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping those who struggle with thoughts of suicide and depression. Carter Carroll, founder of the organization, said the purpose of the event was to teach students how to help themselves and save others. “We want to bring people together and take a stand for suicide prevention,” he said. “And we want to show people that there are a number of professional services in our area that can help them.” Carroll said the idea for this event stemmed from his own battle with depression. “As someone who struggled with depression and suicide attempts for seven years, I knew I had to stand up, and I had to tell my story,” he said. “I had to rally people together to take a stand,

and this is what came from that.” The event included guest speakers, live music and booths from Lincoln Counseling, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and a few of Tech’s sororities and fraternities, including Sigma Kappa and Alpha Chi Omega. Rachel Eddy, president of Tech’s National Alliance on Mental Illness, said she most enjoyed the positive atmosphere of the event. “We wanted this to be about hope,” Eddy said. “It’s not about what we lost, but about what we can save, and that seems to be what’s on everybody’s mind. I’ve met a lot of people who are passionate about this, and that’s a great thing to see.” Eddy said she hopes this event has brought more attention to suicide prevention on campus and has brought the student body closer together. “As far as I know, this is the first time we’ve ever had anything like this that isn’t confined to just one group,” she said. “This is getting everyone on campus involved, from the Greeks to the geeks. I feel like this is a unifying thing, and that’s really good to have.”

Shane Lopez, a counselor at Lincoln Counseling, said he believes information about mental illness and suicide prevention is especially important among college students. “It’s not something that’s covered widely in the media, or talked about a lot on campuses,” he said. “You get a lot of education, you have a lot of things you’re learning, but you’re not always taking care of yourself and you’re CARROLL not being asked if you’re okay. You’re only being asked to perform and provide.” Carroll said he was pleased with the students’ response to the event, and hopes to make it an annual event. “Although it was a lot of work and a lot of long nights, I know that it was all worth it,” he said. “If we helped just one person today, we’ve done enough.”

Louisiana Tech earned recognition as a “rising star” in a study by Firetail, a consulting group that works with universities. According to the study, Tech was chosen as a prospective member for the “Class of 2030,” which consisted of universities selected for their potential to become renowned leaders both regionally and globally. From this group, Tech was picked as one of the 20 universities identified as “rising stars” with a large capacity for sustained improvement. “There has to be something special here,” said Leslie Guice, university president. He said Tech did not ask to be a part of this study and was selected based on meeting certain criteria. Guice said part of what made Tech a candidate was the ability to identify unique areas of excellence and to invest in them. “As I say, invest in it relentlessly,” Guice said. He said a key criterion cited by the study was also a university’s “integrated planning.” Guice said Tech exhibited this planning for both the short and long term through goals outlined in strategies such as the Tech 2020 plan and beyond. “Tech 2020 is not a finish line for us, it is really just a platform for the future,” Guice said. “We also need to be looking out beyond the horizon.” According to the study, people and culture were another element taken into consideration. “Louisiana Tech has long been an institution that has used the strengths of its people and programs to create opportunities for its students and graduates,” said Dr. Dave Guerin, executive director of university communications at Tech. Guerin said all members of the Tech community could use their talents to help Tech achieve its goals. “The activities and the leadership that our students provide is part of creating this campus culture, one of excellence,” Guice said. He said a way the university made this possible was through the Dog Haul event, in which hundreds of upperclassmen came to help freshmen move into their dorms. “In fall quarter, the university incorporates new freshmen and makes them feel welcome,” said Philip Matherne, a sophomore kinesiology major. He said the university also gave students the chance to meet and interact with a variety of people. “You are in such close proximity with everyone,” he said, “I think it’s very easy to get involved on campus.” Matherne said Tech students also participated in reaching out to the surrounding area. “All the organizations send people out to be ambassadors in the community,” Matherne said. Guice said outward focus was another aspect that the study took into consideration. He said the external focus was evident in many programs at Tech, from the work that the College of Education was doing in the region and beyond to a number of partnerships with various corporations. “I have sensed that a lot of our faculty and students were proud to be selected, realizing it’s no crown or anything like that, but it gives us something to shoot for, and we have a chance to get there,” Guice said.

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2 • The Tech Talk • September 22, 2016

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Union Board welcomes back students with Fall Fling KACIE KAUFMAN Staff Reporter | kjk019@latech.edu

Photo by Colin Fontenot

Johnna Hartzog passed out glow sticks to students as they entered the Fling.

Louisiana Tech students filled the Lambright Center for a night to celebrate the return to school with the annual Fall Fling. Union Board put on the event with attractions such as a live DJ, a water pong tournament and tacos to offer students. A photo booth and a welcome table filled with free glow sticks were also available. “The goal is to provide entertainment for students. It’s what we’re put on campus to do,” said Colby Ashley, a senior in kinesiology and president of Union Board. The Lambright was filled with students from a variety of majors and organizations. Ashley said it was an event where the Tech population could come together and enjoy a night of free entertainment. “It embodies that whole Tech family aspect,” Ashley said.

Kayley Hurd, a sophomore special education major, said the outcome of Fall Fling was that it brought everybody together and showed how close the Ruston community was. She said it gave students an opportunity to not worry about school so much as well. Hurd, who attended Fall Fling last year said she considered it a fun event. She said the addition of an inflatable water slide and the switch from hamburgers to tacos were welcome changes from the year before. “Free tacos are always a blessing,” she said. April Procell, a freshman graphic design major, said the tacos, music and the evidence of school spirit were all a draw to attend. “I thought it was a good way to get out and meet people,” Procell said. Kurston Griffin, a sophomore kinesiology major and first-time attendee of the event, said she was drawn to Fall Fling because of the di-

versity of the event. “It’s people you don’t see on a day-to-day basis,” she said. Griffin said that a lot of people were talking about the event and that it brought out a good group of people. Ashley said that Tech was changing and doing different things with social media. He said the school had a number of Snapchat filters and utilized social media, and Union Board used these channels to draw students to events as well. “We’re trying to put everything that we have on Snapchat,” Ashley said. “We’re trying to do a lot of different stuff with publicity and marketing our events.” Ashley said that Fall Fling had the ability to set the tone for events to follow. “It’s our first big event of the year. It always is,” Ashley said. He said that if the students enjoyed themselves, they would be more likely to come back to other events.

Tech’s Master’s program named most affordable ISABELA PALMIERI Staff Writer | ipa001@latech.edu In recent years, Louisiana Tech University has had no shortage of high national rankings for its education system. Tech’s engineering and technology management online master’s program was nationally ranked the number one most affordable program in 2016 by the SR Education Group, an online education research team. Tech took the prize with a $5,424 annual tuition, nearly $1,000 less than its second-place competitor. Melissa Mangum, a master’s degree candidate in engineering management, said her initial reaction to the news of Tech’s No. 1 ranking was pride for her university. “I am very proud of both my undergraduate and master’s degree from Louisiana Tech University,” Mangum said. “For me personally, my master’s degree from Tech will cost $25,000 and $35,000 less than the two other degree programs I considered. As I did with my undergraduate degree, I will complete my master’s degree with no student debt.” Mangum said she was seeking a program which provided the basic elements of an MBA and would further her engineering skills, and Tech program surpassed her criteria. “There were three degree programs I initially considered,” she said. “Tech’s affordability, flexibility and the recently offered Black Belt program were the determining factors for my decision to return to Louisiana Tech University for my master’s degree.” Brennan White, another graduate student in the engineering and technology management program, was not surprised with the news of the ranking. “Tech has continued to rank highly ac-

cording to value proposition and performance,” White said. “Affordability was a factor when looking at this program, and I couldn’t find another that came close.” The program was not only ranked as most affordable, but has also been ranked in the top 10 “Best Buy in Online Master’s Degrees in Engineering” by GetEducated.com and in the top 20 “Top Student Rated Masters in Engineering Management Programs” for 2015 by GraduatePrograms.com. White said the faculty’s willingness to work with its students made it the best program available to work with his lifestyle. “The program is extremely flexible, which makes getting my master’s degree possible,” White said. “I work full time as an engineering manager and also have a family that I love to spend time with. For the most part, the professors understand the nature of working full-time and going to school online.” White said Beth Hegab, the program coordinator, caters the program to working students. “Every class in the curriculum has been valuable in my current role,” he said. “She is readily available for assistance to ensure that the program is providing the most benefit to students.” Hegab said the staff works hard to offer a degree which provides technical and managerial training that prepares students for leadership roles and that they are pleased the degree stands out as most affordable online degree in the nation. “The online engineering and technology management program is a great option for working professionals to further their career options, and we are very pleased to see the national recognition that it continues to attract,” Hegab said .

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UPCOMING EVENTS FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

• Career Day Prep: Resume walk-in’s 10 a.m.-2 p.m. in Keeny Hall • Career Day Prep: Making Career Day Work 3 p.m.-4 p.m. in the Student Center •Black Light Graffiti Party 7 p.m.-9 p.m. at Chi Alpha

•Bulldog football v. Blue Raiders 6 p.m. @ Middle Tennessee

• no events scheduled

• Career Day Prep: Resume walk-in’s 10 a.m.-2 p.m. in Keeny Hall

• Career Day Prep: Plan for Success: The Art of Navigating Career Day 12 p.m.-1 p.m. in Keeny Hall

• Union Board membership interest meeting 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. in Wyly Tower

• Life Skills 101: Finance 2 p.m.-3 p.m. in Keeny Hall

•Fabulous Equinox Band 7 p.m.-9 p.m. in Howard Auditorum

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September 22, 2016 • The Tech Talk • 3

Local businesses extend hours KAILEE COURTS Staff Reporter | kec029@ latech.edu

to leave and go somewhere else for food; they can stay and keep having a good The Dawghouse, Sun- time.” down Tavern and PonchaFor some employees at toulas have extended their The Dawghouse, the later hours, allowing customers hours do not seem that to stay until 2 a.m. great. The City of Ruston Joel Albritton, a junior passed a new ordinance electrical engineer major, that allows restaurants to works in the kitchen at The stay open until 2 a.m. Dawghouse. The ordinance came “It gets pretty boring into effect on staying open that Sept. 1, allowing late,” said AlbritThe Dawghouse, “People ton. “I don’t think Sundown Tav- aren’t forced enough people ern and Poncha- to leave and know that we are toulas to extend open later.” their hours. They go someJoseph Juwere previously where else neau, a server only able to stay for food.” and bartender at open until midThe Dawghouse, night. said he does not AUSTIN Kara Austin, a KARA Ponchatoulas server really like stayserver at Ponchaing on the clock toulas, said she that late, but it is believes the later worth it. hours benefit employees as “It brings in a lot of lowell as customers. cals and more business,” “It’s fun to see every- said Juneau, a junior aviaone in the Ruston commu- tion major. “The money is nity get together to enjoy definitely better.” the night,” she said. “It’s Trish Williamson is the also encouraging to hear front of house manager at my own friends planning The Dawghouse. to come out on the week“I’ve been here for six days.” years, and I think that this is Austin said she loves the good for the business,” said later hours because it gives Williamson. students more options. She said she gets less “Ruston is on the small- sleep and had to hire exer side, so it’s easy for stu- tra staff, but she said staydents to get bored,” she ing open later is something said. “Now that we’re open good for the Tech students. later, people aren’t forced “I think it’s great that

Staff photo

Thanks to a new city ordinance, Ruston businesses such as Ponchatoulas can now stay open until 2 a.m., when previously they could only be open until midnight. they have more options to choose from,” she said. “There is less traveling between the bars and that is safer.” Maddie Corbett, a soph-

omore business marketing major, said she loves that the businesses are open later. “I think that staying open until 2 a.m. makes it

safer for people to stay in town,” she said. “It’s easier for people to get rides from trusted individuals.” Corbett said the later hours show that Ruston can

compete with surrounding cities. “Ruston is evolving,” she said. “It’s good for the community that these places are now able to stay open.”

Life Choices explains controversial brochure AMBER HARRINGTON Staff Reporter | anh038@latech.edu One local business is now facing backlash after handing out what some students perceived as a controversial brochure. Life Choices, a pro-life organization located in downtown Ruston, was one of the more than 40 businesses to participate in Ruston’s annual “A Taste of Ruston” on Sept. 7. The event, hosted by Louisiana Tech University student affairs and the chamber of commerce, gave businesses the op-

portunity to introduce their outfit, there were many in a pamphlet that their ceptable,’ or ‘I can’t beproducts and services to who believed this to be the outfits should match their lieve victim-blaming is still freshman students message of this organiza- intentions. It’s never the happening,’”Mitchell said. The author of the bro- tion.” victim’s fault.” “Ultimately, I agreed to chure explains that there Among those was Molly Mitchell first became remove the post once Life are three ways to make Mitchell, a 2015 alumna at aware of the brochure af- Choices removed the pamone’s intentions known– Tech and a member of the ter her friends on campus phlets from circulation.” words, actions and dress. Joyful Heart Foundation, texted her a picture of it. Brian Powell, a junior “The problem arose an organization dedicated She was then encouraged chemical engineering mawith the interpretation of to shedding light on do- to make a Facebook post jor, sided with Life Choices. dress and modesty,” said mestic violence, abuse, as- voicing her opinion on the Powell said he felt the broKathleen Richards, direc- sault and healing. matter. The post was soon chure was not victim-blamtor of Life Choices. “While “I wouldn’t want anyone deleted by Life Choices. ing but instead served as we believe the intentions to read that their “no” beShe then made another encouragement for girls to of the brochure and cer- comes a maybe depending post with the same mes- dress more modestly. tainly the intentions of Life on what they’re wearing,” sage–it was shared over 70 “Explicit attire draws Choices were to never said Mitchell. wouldn’t negative attention to wom-Cindy & ever Tabitha from Shear “IHeaven havetimes. merged with Hair Connection ever suggest-Now that blame for atwant someone to Drive blame “Most of the com- en; it can give off a persona located 307 Dan Reneau a sexual assault is shifted themselves for being as- ments were ‘thank you of promiscuity,” he said. to the victim-(318) based255-3262 on her saulted because they read for sharing, this is unac- “The pamphlet was point-

ing that out.” As for Life Choices, Richards said it will always welcome a conversation that includes mutual respect and desire for a productive conversation. Also, because of the hurt the brochures have caused, they will no longer be used by the organization. “Let me reassure you, Life Choices is 100 percent pro-woman, 100 percent pro-man, 100 percent pro-whole, healthy relationships,” she said. “We will never side with someone who has committed a crime. Never. Period.”

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4 • The Tech Talk • September 22, 2016

The

TechTalk

FROM THE EDITOR

MANAGEMENT

Dear freshmen

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Rachel Maxwell

RACHEL MAXWELL Editor-In-Chief | ram049@latech.edu

MANAGING EDITOR Caleb Daniel

FEATURES EDITOR Payton Potter

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Payton Potter

SPORTS EDITOR

Matthew Valcho

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his column is directed at the freshmen that have recently begun finding their place here at Louisiana Tech. You are a couple of weeks in, and it has probably been a strange time for you. It may feel confusing, and you may feel out of place. I think a lot about my first few months here. Coming to Tech, I thought I knew exactly who I was and what I wanted out of my college experience. Since that first quarter in the fall of 2014, I have changed more

than I ever thought possible. I know that you have probably been given a million pieces of unsolicited advice about college, but here is one more: keep in mind that you are in the midst of one of the most tumultuous times in your life. If you do not feel the same as you did a year ago, that is OK. If you do not feel the same as you did yesterday, that is OK. You will change your mind about things you never thought you would waver on. You will do things you never thought you were capable of. When you mess up, remember that everyone around you is mess-

ing up too. When you get hurt, remember that you have probably hurt someone else before. If you haven’t, you will. Cut yourself some slack, cut others the same slack. When I finish my college career in two years, I will probably look back the version of myself that wrote this column and laugh at how much I thought I knew. I’m excited for everything between this moment and that one. Rachel Maxwell is a junior journalism major from Benton who serves as editor-in-chief for The Tech Talk.

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FACT IN FICTION

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The future is no myth

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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 providing the opportunity for learning and development of all qualified citizens without regard to race, sex, religion, color, national origin, age, disability, marital status, or veteran status for admission to, participation in, or employment in the programs and activities which the University sponsors or oper ates. For Title IX information, see University Policy #1445 at http:// www.latech.edu/administration/ policiesandprocedures/1445.

CALEB DANIEL Managing Editor | csd020 @latech.edu

t’s time for another Fact in Fiction column, where I look inside imaginary stories to find the messages of real-world significance hidden in the fiction. Rather than a movie or comic book, this week I’m throwing it way back to a character from ancient Norse mythology. No, Hemsworth or Hiddleston fangirls, I’m not talking about Thor or Loki. This story is about Frey, one of the fairest of the gods of Asgard, who made a very similar mistake to those many college students make today. Frey ruled peacefully over the Elf-people, and his greatest treasure was a magic sword that would fight on its own. One day, Frey spied a maiden from the realm of the Frost Giants. Her name was Gerda, and Frey, as gods always do, fell madly in love with her on sight. The Frost Giants were enemies of the gods of Asgard, so Frey went to his father Niörd to ask what

he should do. Niörd told his son to forget the maiden, because winning her would cost Frey the thing he loved most: his magic sword. Frey said he would gladly give up his sword for the lovely Gerda. However, Niörd reminded his son of the day of Ragnarök, the end of all things, when the Giants would make war upon the gods. What defense would Frey have on that day if he gave away his magic sword? Frey’s reply is the reason I compare him to many young people today: “The day of Ragnarök is far off, and I cannot live without Gerda.” Despite being a fictitious immortal, Frey suffered from the same shortsightedness that many of us still adopt today. Namely, he valued his immediate desires over long-term planning. It’s easy to make decisions only for today: spend that paycheck, avoid those hard classes, or Netflix instead of work. Those choices may make us feel so good for a while, and like

Frey, maybe it feels like the negative consequences of tomorrow are a million years away. But unlike Frey, we don’t live very long. Ragnarök is coming. It may seem like a good idea to take the easiest, least stressful path to your degree, but if you’ve done nothing to show for it along the way, you just might be beat out for a job by someone who took the wiser road. Maybe slacking off in class is satisfying now, but you’ll probably regret it sooner than you think. On the day of Ragnarök, Frey was attacked by the demon Surtur. Only his magic sword could have saved him, but because of his impulsive decision, Frey was killed in battle. What might the consequences be for your shortsighted decisions in your college years? I recommend you avoid finding out. Caleb Daniel is a junior journalism major from Lake Charles who serves as managing editor for The Tech Talk.

NOT THAT POTTER

Bipartisan brokenness PAYTON POTTER Feature Editor | jpp017@latech.edu

“We are fast approaching the stage of the ultimate inversion: the stage where the government is free to do anything it pleases, while the citizens may act only by permission; which is the stage of the darkest periods of human history, the stage of rule by brute force.” Ayn Rand, well known for procapitalist writings, printed the previous line in her 1957 novel “Atlas Shrugged.” Almost 50 years later, her words have never seemed truer. As the dramatic campaign for president plays out on the world stage, the nation only seems to get more divided. While Donald Trump promises to revoke rights such as gay marriage, abortion and amnesty from minorities while keeping marijuana reform at bay, Hillary Clinton promises to use money taken from the pockets of businesses and taxpayers to provide healthcare and tuition, impose firearm regulations and raise minimum wage. Either way, someone

is getting shafted. Perhaps the most unfortunate part of the election process–even more unfortunate than email fraud and bankruptcy–is that so few people realize there is a way out of the broken system. The truth is that the government of the United States is not a partisan system–at least it is not supposed to be. Unbeknownst to many, the 2016 election will feature libertarian candidate Gary Johnson on the ballot in all 50 states and green-party candidate Jill Stein on the ballot in 45, with a write-in option in three more. Despite being recognized as legitimate presidential candidates, Stein and Johnson are not being permitted to participate in the Sept. 26 presidential debate. This decision was made by the Commission on Presidential Debates, a nonprofit organization controlled by the republican and democratic parties. There is good news yet, and it is that voters still have a chance to change the polarization created by big government-supporting parties.

By simply researching thirdparty candidates, choosing the candidate whose views best match one’s own and voting accordingly, America can elect a leader who cares about the real issues. Libertarians, for example, support small government, less taxation and personal freedoms while Green Party supporters, sometimes called greens, support political reform, action to end environmental damage, civil rights and more. According to Stein’s platform, “the defining characteristics of modern politics in the United States are a corrupt campaign finance system that enables corporate and wealthy elites to purchase political outcomes; and an abundance of anti-democratic electoral, ballot access and debate rules designed to minimize participation and choice.” It is not too late to put a stop to the brokenness. Payton Potter is a senior journalism major from Farmersville, Texas who serves as features editor for The Tech Talk.

Are football players right to protest the anthem? Prior to a National Football League preseason game against the Green Bay Packers on Aug. 26, San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick sat down during the playing of the national anthem in what he called a protest of wrongdoings against African Americans and minorities in the United States. Following the game, Kaepernick spoke to the media and gave an explanation. “I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color,” he told NFL.com. The NFL released a statement later that read, “Players are encouraged but not required to stand during the playing of the national anthem.” Weeks later, the controversy rages on and shows no signs of stopping as football players from other pro, college and even high school teams sit or take a knee during the anthem in protest. Players at every level are being reprimanded for sitting during the anthem, including Denver Broncos linebacker Brandon Marshall, who lost many sponsorships after taking a knee before the nationally broadcast NFL opener. High school players are being suspended for replicating Kaepernick’s actions. The quarterback has triggered protests from not only other football players, but from athletes in other sports. Professional women’s soccer player Megan Rapinoe, a representative of the U.S. in multiple international tournaments, took a knee prior to a United States friendly against Thailand. The United State Soccer Federation immediately released a statement that said, “As part of the privilege to represent your country, we have an expectation that our players and coaches will stand and honor our flag while the National Anthem is played.” The question that everyone seems to have an opinion on: Is it right for Kaepernick, or anyone for that matter, to protest during the national anthem? Many supporters of Kaepernick say of course he can kneel because this is a free country. He has the right as an American to protest however he sees fit and should not face any consequences. He is simply using the platform he has to send out his message. On the other hand, his opponents will say he is disrespecting the flag, this country and those who have fought for the freedom he is using to protest. Some “neutral” athletes have come out to say they support Kaepernick’s message but not his method, including New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees and Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Alejandro Villanueva, a West Point graduate and former Army Ranger who served three tours in Afghanistan. ““I will be the first one to hold hands with Colin Kaepernick and do something about the way minorities are being treated in the United States,” Villanueva said. “You can’t do it by looking away from the people that are trying to protect our freedom and our country.” Whichever side you find yourself on, its hard to say that racism does not still exist in the country, but using a method that causes as much of a stir as it has can only be counter-productive.

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September 22, 2016 • The Tech Talk • 5

Tri Delta begins recruitment process at Tech KAILEE COURTS Staff Reporter | kec029@latech.edu

Photo by Colin Fontenot

Competitors raced non-motorized carts in the Choudrant Fire Department’s sixth annual race.

Outhouse derby returns DILLON NELSON Staff Reporter I djn005@latech.edu The Choudrant Fire Department held its sixth annual Grand National Outhouse Derby Races event Saturday. Residents of The Village of Choudrant lined both sides of Bagwell Street to watch the teams race their non-motorized carts designed to resemble outhouses in a double elimination tournament. Race announcer Jerry Whitman said he gets more excited for this race than any other local event. “This event is unique because of the spectacle of the event,” Whitman said. “It’s a downhill outhouse racewhere the driver has to have their team give them the best push they can, and the crowd always gets more excited for it than any other event in Choudrant.” Whitman said the enthusiasm is not exclusive to Choudrant residents. He said Jace Robertson of Duck Dynasty came to compete one year while local radio personality “Mountain Man” served as announcer in another year. “We have gotten more and more coverage about this in a lot of different areas since Choudrant had its first race

here about six or seven years ago,” Whitman said. “We were covered in a few big news outlets around the country, like the Associated Press.” Aside from the novelty of the race itself, Whitman also praised the amount of skill and competitive spirit that goes into it. He said the people of Choudrant take the race as seriously as football. “There are no university games going on today, and they are very careful to plan it so that as many people as possible are able to attend,” Whitman said. “We are one of the few places in the country to hold outhouse races, so we want to make sure it gets the attention it’s worthy of.” Anji Bryan, 2015 champion and driver of Super Doodie, returned for her second year. Bryan said her family is composed of several mechanics, so working with machines has always been a useful hobby. “We’ve always been into shop activities, and I think I’m just an all around mechanically oriented person,” Bryan said. Bryan said that this race is about entertainment and giving the community something interesting to do. However, she said, for the contestants and their helpers, it’s all about displaying who can

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produce the fastest speed by whatever means necessary. “It’s all about engineering, and I just happened to out-engineer them when I won last year,” Bryan said. “I’ve been fine-tuning and tweaking since then.” Kathy Jordan, who ran a fundraiser for her local church, Anchor Tabernacle, in front of the finish line, said she was still unsure who won despite being so close to the action. “I thought I saw Super Doodie pull ahead at the very end, but everyone here thinks they saw something different so I’m not sure,” Jordan said. “Whoever won it was one of the closest finishes I’ve seen in all the times I’ve come to this race.” After a review of video taken of the finish, Whitman and his team of judges determined Dylan Bowers, representing the Choudrant Fire Department, to have won by two inches. “All we really did from previous years was put some good grease on the bands, air up the tires real tight and hope for the best,” Bowers said. “Now we’re going to go home, have a fish fry with my family and celebrate because I am so excited we won after being certain we had just lost.”

Tri Delta is joining the Greek system at Louisiana Tech and they are looking for girls to help start their chapter. Delta Delta Delta is a Panhellenic organization established at Boston University in 1888. Jane Ashley Rayborn is a Tri Delta alumna, and she is at Tech as a consultant to help get the chapter started. “We are very excited to be here at Louisiana Tech,” said Rayborn, a graduate of Louisiana State University. “There is a lot of support from the national level to get the Tech chapter started.” Rayborn said they are now looking for underclassmen as well as upperclassmen. “We really want to tap into the organizations that are untouched by Greek life,” she said.“We want to show these girls that they can create their own Greek life experience by joining.” She said the girls who choose to help start the Tri Delta chapter at Louisiana Tech will be able to decide what they want to get out of the experience. “We want to give the ladies full control,” she said. “They will decide on what kind of social events, sisterhood events and philanthropy events we have.” The girls who decide to join Tri Delta will have a chance to be a part of the founding team at Louisiana Tech. Katherine Hammond, a senior kinesiology major, said one of the things that drew her to Tri Delta was the possibility of being a founding member. “I had thought about joining a sorority in the past, but never got into it enough to rush,” she said. “What really got my attention is how great it would be to be a founding member, and the legacy we will have a chance to leave.” Hammond said she was also drawn to Tri Delta because of the leadership opportunities and the chance to work with their philanthropy, which is St. Jude Research Hospital. Johanna Hartzog, a senior graphic design major, said Tri Delta’s philanthropy is what really drew her in. “I have family members who were Tri Delta members at LSU, so I am kind of biased toward them,” she said. “St. Jude hits me close to home and that made the decision easier.” Hartzog said she has always wanted to join a sorority but has been hesitant to do so, and Tri Delta coming to Tech was the final push she needed. “Since Tri Delta is new at Tech, I want to try to help start it off and soar whenever I leave,” she said. Anyone interested in learning more about Tri Delta can visit its website, tridelta.org, or its twitter, @latechtridelta.

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6 • The Tech Talk • September 22, 2016

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Photo by Brian Blakely

Locals play sports bingo at Lincoln Parish Library as part of the Smithsonian’s Hometown Teams exhibit’s stay in Ruston.

Lincoln Parish Library hosts sports bingo KERRY WAGUESPACK Staff Reporter | kfw005@latech.edu

Sports bingo was hosted by the Lincoln Parish Library’s event center as one of the events planned in unison with the Smithsonian’s Hometown Teams exhibit. In an attempt to bring the community together, the library applied for and was awarded the Hometown Team’s exhibit, that was accompanied by different sports themed events throughout the duration of its stay. Nick Davis, coordinator of the exhibit, worked on directing the different events that would go on while the exhibit was in town. The events ranged from a community tailgate, sports bingo and an all-day sports movie marathon which will conclude the exhibits stay in Ruston. “Sports bingo was something that

we thought we could get people from all over the community involved in, being that everyone has a sports team they love to pull for.” Davis said. “We thought that an event like bingo would also bring out people who may be indifferent to sports.” He said the exhibit would be held in Ruston in an attempt to get people from all of the surrounding communities to attend. He said the winner of each game got a small grab bag of goodies the library put together so the winners would have something for attending the event. “It works the same way as regular bingo would but instead of calling out B8, we used different sports figures that spent their playing days either in high school or college in our community. For example we have people like Karl

Malone, Terry Bradshaw and Paul Millsap,” Davis said. Louis Wright was one of the community members who won during the bingo event and was excited about the chance to mingle with people from the community. “When my wife and I read about the bingo in the paper we wanted to come out and see what it was all about,” Wright said. “We have been Grambling supporters since childhood, which was one of the reasons we wanted to come.” Jeremy Bolom, the library’s whead of public service, sent out the invitations to the retirement homes around the community in an attempt to draw a large crowd out to the bingo. “In order for us to get the exhibit, we had to write up a plan that involved different events. If not for the events going

on, we would not have been approved for the grant,” Bolom said. He said the team decided to apply for the grant as a way to get everyone in the community involved, which is why the events differed so much from one another. “The exhibit included many different trophies and newspaper clippings ranging all the way from Ruston High to Karl Malone’s headlines from the NBA,” Bolom said. He said the exhibit will continue to be held the events center until the end of the day on Saturday September 24, which will be the all-day movie marathon with free popcorn and drinks. “My favorite part of the exhibit is it teaches people about the origins of a bunch of different traditions that happen at sporting events,” Bolom said.

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September 22, 2016 • The Tech Talk • 7

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‘Agents of Change’ kicks off Ruston’s Southern Film Circuit KACIE KAUFMAN Staff Reporter | kjk019@latech.edu

Photo courtesy of Films with a Purpose

Tech student unveils art exhibition titled ‘Austin’ STARLA GASTON Staff Reporter | sjg012@latech.edu

ing the people I’m closest to, it would allow me to step back and really study them,” The unveiling of one of she said. “I really wanted to the North Central Louisiana explore painting without reArts Council’s newest art lying on my memory.” She said she hopes afexhibitions gave a Louisiana Tech student the opportunity ter viewing the colors, eye to share her work and artistic contact, facial expressions and exaggerated features of vision with the community. The collection, painted the subjects of her paintby Molly Butler, was chosen ings, people are able to get a glimpse into their for the exhibition personalities. after her portrait, “I want people titled “Austin,” was to get a sense of awarded Best in the personality of Show in the 2016 the person they’re Peach Art Exhibit. looking at, even if The exhibition will they don’t know be open until Oct. who it is,” Butler 28. said. “I want them Butler, a junior to be able to look studio art major, at the paintings said the inspiration and say ‘this looks for the paintings BUTLER like a happy percame from her inison’ or ‘this looks tial impressions of like an inquisitive person.’” her friends. Libby English, a Dixie “I wanted to paint people that I’m close to and have board member volunteer, relationships with,” she said. said the Ruston community “But I also wanted it to be has responded positively to a representation of the fea- Butler’s paintings. “We’ve had people tures that I noticed when I first met them. I took their come by specifically to see prominent features and ex- her pieces,” English said. aggerated them so people “They’re amazed by how who are looking at the art- realistic her work is. Personwork can get a little taste of ally, I was most impressed by how realistic the eyes in who that person is.” Butler said she decided to the paintings are. She’s very paint only her closest friends talented.” Butler said she was surand family members for the exhibit to challenge her- prised by the positive recepself to study faces for detail tion to her portraits. “It’s just crazy to me berather than recall them from cause not even a year ago, memory. “I thought that by paint- I didn’t have a clue which

direction I wanted to take,” she said. “I didn’t know if I wanted to paint or use charcoal or do photography. I know I still have room to improve, but just to know that people are enjoying my work is really cool.” Jessica Slaughter, executive director of the North Central Louisiana Arts Council, said student’s works are displayed to help them connect with the community, and exhibitions like Butler’s give Ruston residents the opportunity to interact with the arts. “We try to get students to connect with us and be involved with the community,” she said. “We’re always looking for new volunteers and interns, and we’ve seen a lot of growth in people’s interests, especially downtown. People who don’t normally come down here will stop by just to see the artwork we display.” Butler said though she plans to take her work in a different direction in the future, she hopes her paintings will provide stability in a changing world. “I’m trying to make something that’s permanent,” she said. “People come and go, and I know some of the relationships I have now might be drastically different in the future, but when I put something on a canvas I know it’s going to be there forever. It’s set in stone, and that’s what gives me the motivation to do it.”

The screening of the independent film “Agents of Change” at the Dixie Center for the Arts brought about a convergence of community members and students from Grambling, Louisiana Tech and University of Louisiana-Monroe. The film detailed the movement at college campuses in the late 1960s for black studies programs. It was the first film shown as part of the Southern Film Circuit Tour at the Dixie. Abby Ginzberg, who co-produced the film along with Frank Dawson, said the film took seven years of work. “It was a total labor of love getting this film made,” Ginzberg said. She said the two producers wanted to tell the story because they were both present during the protest advocating greater opportunities for black students at Cornell. The 1969 protest involved the occupation of a school building by black students. “Frank was a black student who was inside the building during the takeover, and I was a white student supporting on the outside,” Ginzberg said. She said the story resonated with college students because it was about what happened on college campuses 45 years ago and if there were issues concerning ethnic or black studies or race on campus, the film still felt relevant. “I think that there is a lot to learn from this. It’s information that people don’t have,” she said.

The film was followed by a questionand-answer session. Representatives from Grambling, Tech and ULM discussed the film and its applications to modern students. Elisabeth Sanders, a sophomore family and child studies major, said the film and panel were informative to her and showed the actual purpose of the civil rights movement, especially on college campuses. She said this information made it relatable to college students. “It can educate people to be better, and it can open people’s eyes to another perspective,” Sanders said. Jessica Slaughter, executive director of North Central Louisiana Arts Council, said each person comes from their own experience and sees that as the primary experience – until they go to college and see a wide range of cultures and experiences. “As students of the university, it’s important when you’re there to get as much variety of experience as you can,” Slaughter said. “The more you know about different people, the greater of a life experience you’re going to have.” She said that the documentary was important to bring to the community as an art form and because of its subject matter. “It’s an important piece of history we need to be aware of. I feel like it connected with everyone that was there,” Slaughter said. She said “Agents of Change” will be followed by screenings of five more films. The next film, “Donald Cried,” will be shown Oct. 3 at the Dixie.

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8 • The Tech Talk • September 22, 2016

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Photos courtesy of Warner Bros.

AMBER HARRINGTON Staff Reporter | anh038@latech.edu There are certain things in life that get better with age: books, cheese, whiskey, so on and so forth. However, who would have thought that Tom Hanks would be on that list as well? Okay, I’ll admit, he may not look like a young Leonardo DiCaprio, but, in Clint Eastwood’s latest masterpiece, “Sully,” Hanks is a total heartthrob. The movie is based off the true story of U.S. Airways Flight 1549, and how on that cold afternoon on January 15, 2009, Capt. Chesley Sullenberger had no choice but to land his plane full of passengers in the Hudson River. In Eastwood’s rendition of this story, he takes an extraordinary occurrence and throws out all of the drama and fluff. He gives

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SULLY it what some might call a human aspect. As in most of his movies, Eastwood once again shows a strong, competent and brave male figure overcoming the odds. That man was Sully. Tom Hanks portrayed a rather quiet and disturbed Sullenberger. He emotionally removed himself from reality, but, in doing so, he brings out the multi-layered human qualities in man. The film portrayed a pilot, who

has more than 42 years of flying experience, test his own limits as well as those of his aircraft. He attempts to convince himself that he is not a hero, instead simply a man who was doing the job he was hired to do – yet he does the impossible. So, in the eyes of National Transportation Safety Board and Sully himself, is Sully a hero or a fraud? This was the question on each character’s mind as the minutes passed. Everything they said and everything they did was haunted by the echoing voice in the back of their minds: could Sully have made it to the airport? Is he hiding something? Or, are we just looking for someone to blame? Outside of the inner struggle the characters faced, most of the film’s conflict occurs in the aftermath of the incident when both Capt. Sullenberger and his co-

pilot, Jeff Skiles, are brought in front of the NTSB. Anticipation builds as the NTSB investigators, who seem to take on the role of the antagonists, bombard the two men with computer simulations and collected data in attempts to prove they could have made it to a nearby airport for a safe landing. Though this part of the story was necessary to give the film a dramatic effect, it does feel a bit overplayed. The fact is: despite the mandatory investigation, it is hard to believe that anyone had to audacity to question whether Sully was a hero or not. He saved 155 people from a potential horrendous death, and that made him a hero. Everyone involved knew that – even the Safety Board. Time spent outside of NTSB meetings brought us right where the magic happened: the cock-

pit. We watch the last 208 seconds of the flight repeatedly from here. It’s shown in real time how each person involved reacted: the pilots, the passengers, the air traffic controls, the scuba team. Each were human, and acted as so: they hesitated, they doubted, they were afraid for their lives, they were hopeless, they were real. The drama of the crash may have been downplayed, but the intensity was felt through every second. In the end, “Sully” wasn’t a movie that left you with tears in your eyes, or one that kept you on the edge of your seat. It hardly can be considered an action movie or a thriller and probably is not the movie you’d watch on a dreary Monday morning. However, if you’re looking for a story that puts humanity in the forefront, look no further.

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September 22, 2016 • The Tech Talk • 9

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W&NBRIEFS WORLDNEWS France remembers attack victims PARIS (AP) — A ceremony in memory of all victims of terror attacks has been held in Paris as France is still under a state of emergency. The names

of the victims of attacks carried out by Islamic extremists last year in Paris and in July in Nice were read during the ceremony.

Archbishop pushed to leave post HAGATNA, Guam (AP) — A Roman Catholic administrator is urging the Vatican to remove Guam’s archbishop, who has refused to resign amid accusations of sexual abuse against altar boys. The move comes after a letter delivered from leaders did not bring the Archbishop to leave his post.

Residents demand help to rebuild

NYC bombing suspect looked at years ago ASSOCIATED PRESS

NEW YORK (AP) —The FBI looked into New York bombing suspect Ahmad Khan Rahami two years ago after his father expressed concerns his son might be a terrorist, law enforcement officials said Tuesday. But the father later told investigators he just meant his son was hanging out with the wrong crowd, the officials said. In any case, the FBI checked its databases and found nothing connecting Rahami to terror groups, three law enforcement officials said. The FBI review, which included interviews with Rahami’s father, was closed in a matter of weeks after the bureau came up empty-handed. Also Tuesday, investigators disclosed that when Rahami was captured, he had a notebook with him that contained extremist ramblings. One bloodstained page contained references to both Anwar al-Awlaki, the Americanborn cleric who was killed in a 2011 drone strike and whose preaching has inspired other acts of violence, and Nidal Hasan, the former Army officer who went on a deadly shooting rampage in 2009 at Fort Hood, Texas.

Craig Ruttle/AP

Crime scene investigators work at the scene of Saturday’s explosion in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood, in New York, Sunday, Sept. 18, 2016. The information emerged as the younger Rahami, 28, was being held on $5.2 million bail, charged with the attempted murder of police officers in the shootout that led to his capture Monday. Federal prosecutors said they were weighing charges over the weekend bombings in New York City and

a New Jersey seaside town that wounded 29 people. Rahami’s father spoke with the FBI after Rahami was charged in 2014 with stabbing his brother, according to the officials, who were not authorized to discuss the investigation and spoke to The Associated Press on condition

Clinton says ‘Trump aids’ ISIS

THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP) — Dutch authorities are prosecuting two police officers in the death of a man who died a day after being put in a chokehold for resisting arrest. The death in June 2015 of 42-yearold Mitch Henriquez, sparked days of rioting in The Hague that drew comparisons with protests in the U.S.

ASSOCIATED PRESS

STATENEWS Naked man shot while trespassing LAFAYETTE (AP) — Police have identified a naked trespasser shot and killed by a Lafayette resident. Police have said that a Fanny Street resident found 36-year-old Barrett Farabee tresspassing in his backyard. The two exchanged shots, with the resident killing Farabee.

Medicaid tops 305,000 enrollees BATON ROUGE (AP) — More than 305,000 people have signed up for the Medicaid coverage that began July 1. Nearly 12,000 of them so far have gotten annual exams and other services through the government-financed insurance program.

North La. hospitals in stalemate BATON ROUGE (AP) — The Biomedical

Research Foundation of Northwest Louisiana has refused to sign off on renegotiated terms of its deal with the state, financing and other changes sought by the Edwards administration.

of anonymity. The officials said Mohammad Rahami later claimed he simply meant his son was hanging out with gangs and acting like a thug. The disclosure of the father’s contacts with the FBI raises questions about whether there was anything more law enforcement could have done at the time to determine whether Rahami had terrorist aspirations. That issue arose after the Orlando massacre in June, when FBI Director James Comey said agents had years earlier looked into the gunman, Omar Mateen, but did not find enough info to pursue charges. In Rahami’s case, the law enforcement official said the FBI had opened up an “assessment,” the least intrusive form of an FBI inquiry. Justice Department guidelines restrict the types of actions agents may take; they cannot, for instance, record phone calls without obtaining a higher level of approval or developing more grounds for suspicion. Rahami, a U.S. citizen born in Afghanistan, remained hospitalized Tuesday after a gunshot wound to his leg. He was captured in Linden, New Jersey, after he was discovered sleeping in the doorway of a bar.

Nick Wass/AP

Washington Redskins football helmets are seen before an NFL preseason football game between Washington and the New York Jets, in Landover, Maryland.

Trademark battle goes on ASSOCIATED PRESS

WASHINGTON (AP) — Simon Tam has openly criticized the Washington Redskins team name as a racist slur that demeans Native Americans. But Tam and his Asian-American rock band, The Slants, find themselves on the same side as the NFL franchise in a First Amendment legal battle over trademark protection for names that some consider offensive. The Supreme Court could decide as early as this month whether to hear the dispute involving the Portland, Oregonarea band. And if the football team has its way, the justices could hear both cases in its new term. At issue is a constitutional challenge to a law barring the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office from registering trademarks that disparage minority groups. The office denied a trademark to the Slants in 2011 after finding the name disparaged people of Asian descent. The Slants say their goal was not to offend anyone, but to transform a derisive term about the shape of Asian eyes into a statement of ethnic and cultural pride. The band won a major victory last year when a divided federal appeals

court in the District of Columbia ruled the law prohibiting offensive trademarks violates free-speech rights. The Obama administration has asked the Supreme Court to overturn that ruling. The Redskins, too, say their team name is meant to honor American Indians. But the team has faced years of legal challenges, and a testy public relations fight, from members of the very group they claim to salute. The Redskins case involves the trademark office’s move last year to cancel the team trademark that was first registered in 1967. A federal judge has agreed with that decision. A federal appeals court in Richmond, Virginia, has not yet considered the team’s appeal, but the Redskins are urging the Supreme Court not to wait. If the high court agrees to hear the Slants case, the team wants the justices to hear both disputes at the same time. Such requests to leapfrog lower courts are rarely granted. Tam, in a legal brief, says if the court decides to hear the cases together, the justices should do so now rather than waiting for the appeals court to rule in the Redskins case. Otherwise, he says, a future ruling against the Redskins could end up affecting the band’s status.

most qualified to combat terrorism at home and ESTERO, Fla. (AP) — abroad. Hillary Clinton accused Clinton touted Donald Trump of giving her national security “aid and comfort” to credentials at a Islamic terrorists Monday, hastily arranged news declaring his anti-Muslim conference outside rhetoric helps her campaign groups like ISIS plane, accusing recruit new Republican fighters. Trump for using T r u m p the incidents showed no sign to make of changing “some kind of and insisted demagogic the U.S. should point.” “use whatever “I’m the only lawful methods candidate in this are available” to race who’s been CLINTON get information part of the hard from the Afghan decisions to take immigrant terrorists off the arrested in the weekend’s battlefield,” Clinton, a bombings. former secretary of state, As Trump supporters told reporters. “I know at a packed rally in Florida how to do this.” shouted “Hang him!” the The possibility of a Republican presidential home-grown terrorist candidate mocked the plot cast a new shadow fact that Ahmad Khan over the presidential race, Rahami, a 28-year-old diverting both candidates’ U.S. citizen originally attention from the daily from Afghanistan, controversies of the would receive quality campaign and giving medical care and legal them a high-profile representation. opportunity to make their “We must deliver case to undecided voters. a just and very harsh Clinton and her team punishment to these see her experience and people,” he said. “These what they say is her are enemies, these are steady judgment as key combatants and we have selling points for her to be tough, we have to be candidacy. strong.” But while much Both candidates of the foreign policy moved swiftly to capitalize establishment has rallied on investigations into around Clinton, Trump’s a weekend of violent anti-immigrant rhetoric, attacks — bombings promises to close U.S. in New York and New borders and vows to Jersey and stabbings aggressively profile at a Minnesota mall — potential terrorists have casting themselves as fueled his presidential bid.

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10 • The Tech Talk • September 22, 2016

WEEKLYHOROSCOPE www.horoscopes.com.net

Aries March 21 – April 19 You may feel a bit restless and unsettled without really knowing why, Aries. Stresses on the job could churn up repressed resentment from the past that you need to release. Try to discern exactly what these stresses remind you of. If you’re unable to do this, however, you’ll probably still reap the benefits of the release. Stay focused on your work and just let it happen. Taurus Apr 20 - May 20 Too many people could be vying for your attention today, Taurus. All of them want advice or help. This could be flattering, and you’ll probably want to help them, but it can also be unsettling and make it hard to focus. Don’t let this set your temper on edge and cause you to snap at your friends. Take each request one at a time, make no promises, and do your best. Gemini May 21 - Jun 20 There could be trouble brewing in the workplace, Gemini. Some of your colleagues neither like nor trust each other and find it impossible to work together. Adjustments are needed if everyone is going to work to the best of their abilities. If you’re in a position to handle this, do it now. If you aren’t, distance yourself from the situation. It’s the only way to stay sane! Cancer Jun 21 - Jul 22 Squabbles may come up between you and a sibling or neighbor, Cancer. Your ability to compromise is definitely called for here. If you aren’t careful, this could turn into a battle of wills. The minute the disagreement comes up, try to talk it out and turn it into a win/win situation. Otherwise, things may be said that shouldn’t be, and feelings could remain hurt for a long time. Leo Jul 23 - Aug 22 Money matters might cause you a few headaches, Leo. You could be torn between the desire to put money aside for the future and the impulse to buy something that you’ve wanted for a long time. There may be a way to have it both ways. Save a little less and try to find a bargain price for your item. Take everything into consideration and work it out before you make yourself crazy. Virgo Aug 23 - Sep 22 Too much rigorous exercise over the past few days might have you feeling a little sore and tired, Virgo. Your nerves may be on edge, and you could be more likely than usual to snap at those around you. Try to ease both nerves and muscle aches by soaking in a hot bath. Herbal tea might also help. Accept that you

should take it easy today and then do it! Libra Sep 23 - Oct 22 Spiritual breakthroughs may have you feeling a little disconcerted, Libra. Clearing away deadwood, such as past traumas, might tell you a few things about yourself you’d rather not face. It’s vital to release them in order to progress as a human being. Even if tears are involved, this is a positive development. You’ll feel happier once it’s all set free. Onward and upward! Scorpio Oct 23 - Nov 21 A conference of some kind could touch upon some pretty volatile issues, Scorpio. People could disagree to the point that the meeting turns into a shouting match. You probably have strong opinions on this as well, but don’t get involved. You won’t be able to stop the argument, and it can only cause you stress. If you can, avoid this meeting altogether. Think about it! Sagittarius Nov 22 - Dec 21 YIs your significant other caught up in family problems and unable to spend time with you? Don’t let your insecurity get the best of you. Your partner needs to deal with family now. Relax, do what you want to do, and have confidence that you’ll be spending more time together as soon as possible. After dealing with family quarrels, you’ll be a peaceful refuge for your partner. Capricorn Dec 22 - Jan 19 Matters involving communication seem to be fouled up, Capricorn. Messages may not get delivered, emails may not go through, and people might misinterpret your words. This could create a mess that brings everything to a screeching halt. You need to speak to people directly, give detailed instructions, use simple language, and make sure they take notes, or beware of the consequences! Aquarius Jan 20 - Feb 18 Your values could oppose those of a business or romantic partner today, Aquarius. One of you may be overly pragmatic and the other too idealistic. One seems callous, while the other seems to be living in a dream world. This could be a milestone in your relationship if approached properly. If you can’t create a win/win situation, perhaps you should reconsider the partnership.

6/28/2016

CROSSWORDPUZZLE

HIGH 94 LOW 70

FRIDAY

HIGH 93 LOW 70

BestCrosswords.com Puzzle #1 for June 1, 2016

65. Dagger

Across 1. Kiln for drying hops 5. Biblical birthright seller 9. Pro follower 13. Greek portico 14. Not quite right 16. Actor Guinness 17. Immature herring 18. Waverelated 19. Lacking color 20. Take ___ from me 21. Fr. holy woman 22. Comes up 24. Mayberry lad 26. Ardent 27. Comic DeGeneres 29. Unnecessary 33. Actress Garson 34. Needy 35. Pull abruptly 36. Summer mo. 37. Amusing 38. Golly! 39. Thom of footwear 41. Mil. addresses 42. Acquired relative 44. Legendary island 46. Eight Days ___ 47. Chinese weight 48. Rider’s command 49. Conviction 52. Comic Margaret 53. Windshield option 57. Mtn. stat 58. Doorkeeper 60. Memorable times 61. Latin being 62. Dens 63. Actress Thompson 64. Trawler equipment

Across 66. Rip 1 Kiln for drying hops; 5 Biblical birthright Down seller; 9 Pro follower; 13 Greek portico; 14 Not quite right; 1. Greek peak 162.Actor Guinness; 17 Immature Squabbling herring; 18usually Waverelated; 19 3. Arias, Lacking 4. Frogcolor; baby20 Take ___ from me;5.21 Fr. at holy woman; 22 Comes Dines home up;624 Mayberry lad; 26 Ardent; . Strike 277.Comic HelperDeGeneres; 29 Unnecessary; 33 Actress Garson; 8. Mex. neighbor 349.Needy; Quickly35 Pull abruptly; 36 Summer 10. Ah,mo.; me! 37 Amusing; 38 Golly!; 39 Thom footwear; 41 11. Prefix with of conference Mil.12addresses; 42 Acquired . Deck quartet relative; 44 Legendary island; 46 15. Bondage Eight 23. Days Purge___; 47 Chinese weight; 48 Rider's command; 49 25. Apiece Conviction; 26. Ages 52 Comic Margaret; 53 Windshield 27. Belchoption; 57 Mtn. stat; 58 Doorkeeper; 60 Memorable times; 28. Juridical 6129Latin being; 62 Dens; 63 . They’re taboo Actress Thompson; 64 Trawler 30. Bird of prey, score in golf equipment; Dagger; 66 Rip; 31. Move65 stealthily

32. Distort

Down 33. Explorer Vasco da ___ 55. Nothing, in Nogales Go back | Print | Help LAST ISSUE’S SOLUTION 1 Greek peak; 2 Squabbling; 3 Arias, 4ruler Frog baby; 5 Dines atAugust home; 34. Student BestCrosswords.com Puzzle #1 for 17, 2016 6 Strike; 7 Helper; 56. usually; Romanov 8 Mex. neighbor; 9 Quickly; 10 Ah,59 me!; 11 Prefix with 37. Portentous Acrossconference; 12 Deck quartet; 15 . Airline to Oslo1 ATM maker; 4 Free to attack; 9 Bondage; 23 Purge; 25 Apiece; 26 Ages; 27 Belch;Investigation; 28 Juridical; 14 Guido's high 29 note; They're taboo; 30 Bird of 40. Indigenous inhabitants 15 Hopping mad; 16 Conger 17 Derelict;Vasco 18 Claw; 19 da ___; 34 Student; 37 prey, score in golf; 31 Move stealthily; 32 Distort; 33catcher; Explorer 42. ___ Jima Data; 20 Agent; 23 "___ Tu": 1974 24 Maiden nameorderly; preceder; 25 45 Dundee denial; 46 Portentous; 40 Indigenous inhabitants; 42 ___ Jima; hit; 43 Most 43. Most orderly Frenzied woman; 28 Fortuneteller; 30 Gore and Hirt; 33 Atlas feature; Riding; 48 In what 51 ___ we forget...; 52 Lower jaw; 54 45. Dundee denialplace; 49 "It's ___ real"; 50 Otherwise; 34 Singer Vikki; 35 District; 36 In spite of; 39 Keats works; 40 Dies 55 Nothing, in Nogales; 56 Romanov ruler;Relaxation; 59 Airline to 42Oslo; 46.___; Riding 41 Snap course;

48. In what place 49. “It’s ___ real” 50. Otherwise 51. ___ we forget... 52. Lower jaw 54. Dies ___

DAILY U

Pisces Feb 19 - Mar 20 If you’ve been having trouble reaching a romantic partner, Pisces, it might be a good idea to stop trying. Your friend is having a rough day and might not make the best company. In fact, your beloved could view a call from you as an unwelcome interruption and be short, if not downright rude. If you speak with your friend, keep it brief and plan to get together - just not today.

HIGH 93 LOW 71

SUNDAY

HIGH 91 LOW 71

French possessive; 43 ___bitty; 44 Filthy; 45 Ukr. or Lith., once; 46 Shrivelled, without moisture; 47 Distinguishing feature; 54 "Lovergirl" singer ___ Marie; 55 Attacked; 56 Swelled head; 57 Rocky debris; 58 Valuable violin; 59 CD follower; 60 Bit of wisdom; 61 Declines; 62 Heston's org.;

Down 1 Wyo. neighbor; 2 Hint; 3 Freeway access; 4 Clerisy; 5 Rubbed out; 6 Stories; 7 Like ___ of bricks; 8 Camp sight; 9 Bug; 10 Fasten again; 11 Norwegian king; 12 ___ noire; 13 Trauma ctrs.; 21 Continues a subscription; 22 The end of ___; 25 North Dakota city; 26 Battery terminal; 27 ___ Park, Colorado; 28 Fresh; 29 Harper's Bazaar illustrator; 30 Come up; 31 Weill's wife; 32 Astronomer Carl; 34 FDR's fireside _____; 35 Sayings; 37 Aquarium fish; 38 Inflammation of a nerve; 43 Sharon's land; 44 Add fizz; 45 More rational; 46 Family car; 47 Gospel singer Winans; 48 Wife of Zeus; 49 Tobacco plug; 50 Writer Janowitz; 51 Small gull; 52 Aviation pioneer Sikorsky; 53 Prolonged unconsciousness; 54 Sugar amt.;

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

http://www.bestcrosswords.com/bestcrosswords/printable/Home,printable.sdirect?formids=loadSolution%2CpuzzleNumber%2CpuzzleDate%2CDatePicker%2Cforma… 1/1

www.accuweather.com SATURDAY

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Go back | Print | Help

WEEKLYWEATHER TODAY

Puzzle #1 for June 1, 2016

MONDAY

HIGH 84 LOW 58

TUESDAY

HIGH 81 LOW 56

SUDOKUPUZZLE Difficulty EASY

WEDNESDAY

HIGH 82 LOW 60

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

WE ARE BULLGOGS

www.sudoku-puzzles.net LAST ISSUE’S SOLUTION

September 22, 2013 • The Tech Talk • 11

www.thetechtalk.org

More Talk Bryce Dugas’s father, Brent Dugas, looks on as their family home takes on flood water. Photo submitted by Bryce Dugas

Louisianians come together to rebuild and recover following widespread flooding across the southern part of the state ISABELA PALMIERI Staff Writer | ipa001@latech.edu

Photos courtesy of Dehnam Springs Elementary School

Above: Denham Springs elementary school endured severe damage during the flood. Below: The school library at Denham Springs Elementary lost its entire inventory in the flood.

“When we were walking down the road it almost seemed like a movie,” Bryce Dugas said. “The kind of movie where the world is ending and someone is having to leave their home. And it was just crowds of people trying to find a dry spot - or just somewhere they can meet or someone who can pick them up.” Bryce Dugas, a fourth-generation Denham Springs, in Livingston Parish, resident and Louisiana Tech student, witnessed the disastrous damage on over 60,000 homes left by the South Louisiana flood in early August. “There were Red Cross helicopters flying over us, army trucks picking up people and a lot of screaming,” Dugas said. “We were all trying to get on an army truck to try to get over some of the high water. they were screaming at us saying there was no more room. It was surreal.” The damage in Livingston Parish was so extensive that some municipal facilities had to be relocated or closed. Rescue efforts were hindered when the sheriff ’s office had to relocate the 911 communications center due to flooding. “I never thought that would happen in my hometown,” Dugas said. “You see that happening in big cities, but you never see that happening in small town Denham Springs, Louisiana.” The devastating flood waters invaded not only homes, but schools, destroying campuses all throughout the area. Denham Springs Elementary received between 3 to 6 inches of water, destroying every desk, chair, book, computer, smartboard and teacher resource available. “We lost every library book as well as textbook in the school,”said Gail DeLee , principal of Denham Springs Elementary. “It was an emotional day as the teachers had to return and inventory the contents lost in their classrooms.” The sorority Alpha Chi Omega led a book drive encouraging Tech stu-

dents and anyone in the community to help restock the Denham Springs Elementary library. “The students will at least feel some sense of normalcy when we are able to return to our campus by having books in the library and classrooms,” DeLee said. Over 30,000 people were rescued from South Louisiana, many of whom were Tech students. David Alexander, president of the Kappa Alpha Order at Tech, sent eight of his fraternity brothers to help the people affected by the flood. “When they got there I think they realized just how bad it was for some of the people in the DUGAS southern part of the state,” he said. “They were able to help five families, and they went in and helped each of them completely gut their houses.” Alexander said the conditions in the southern part of the state made such an impression on the fraternity that they decided to start a GoFundMe page. “We decided to try and help three families who had lost almost everything,” he said. “One was a family who was raising their grandchildren while the children’s parents were deployed. Another family was a KA sweetheart for our chapter back in 1994, and the last family had lost everything including their vehicles.” Alexander said the fraternity was able to raise $8,500, exceeding their original goal by $1,000. Along with the Greek community, several organizations on campus, such as the Muslim Student Association and Student Government Association, have already taken measures to help flood victims rebuild not only their homes, but also their lives. James Davison, vice president of

SGA, traveled to south LA to personally help those affected by the flooding. “It was tough to see these homes and the lives that were wrecked by the water,” he said. Davison said although it was emotionally difficult to see the damage that was done, the people affected were tougher than this natural disaster. “We talked to lots of people who are tired and worn out from working, but they are some of the most resilient folks I’ve ever met,” he said. “These people are hurting and we need to help in whatever way we can and recognize how strong their spirit is.” President Les Guice said many Tech alumni have contacted the university about their diplomas being destroyed in the flood. The university has has given the alumni new diplomas free of charge with the exact signatures their original diplomas had. “A lot of our students were impacted by that,” Guice said. “And a lot of our friends, alumni and others were too, so we know that there is a role for all of us to play.” Guice said the university is trying to find the best way to help the flood victims. “There is still an ongoing need,” he said. “You don’t recover from these things from the short term. We know they are going to continue to have needs. And that is where I think we will be looking – what we can do to help and help sustain them for the longterm. We can engage a lot of people to provide some support, but we want to do it in ways that will be impactful for those that were affected.” While South Louisiana has been given extensive help, Bryce said, it is a long way from being back to what it was. “It’s gonna take a while for us to get back on our own feet,” he said. “It’s going to be a long road, but at the same time it’s been very pleasing to see how quickly we have been able to recover at this point. I can definitely say I come from a community of people that aren’t willing to back down and aren’t willing to give up.”

www.thetechtalk.org

12 • The Tech Talk • September 22, 2016

THIS WEEK IN

BULLDOG

Bulldogs fall to Red Raider offense

FOOTBALL

The Louisiana Tech football team will travel to Murfreesboro to take on the Middle Tennessee State University Blue Raiders at 6 p.m. on Saturday night. The game can be seen on the American Sports Network and can be heard on Z107.5FM. Tech leads the series between the two teams (4-1)

Photo by Tom Morris/LATechSportsPix.com

Overall Record: 1-2, (0-0) Points per game: 39.3 Points allowed per game: 34.7 Players to watch: Jarred Craft – RB 44 carries, 314 yards, 2 touchdowns Prince Sam – CB 11 tackles,1 interception 1 forced fumble Tech is ranked No. 12 in the country in total offense.

Junior running back Jarred Craft tries to avoid the Texas Tech Red Raider defense during the Bulldogs’ 59-45 defeat in Lubbock last Saturday. Craft rushed for a career high 151 yards on 21 carries and a touchdown in the game. ALEX HEARD Staff Reporter | amh072@latech.edu Someone send out an amber alert and check the back of milk cartons. No, someone is not missing but rather something is: defense. For head coach Skip Holtz and his Louisiana Tech football team, their defense was nowhere to be found Saturday night in Lubbock, Texas, against Texas Tech as they lost a 59-45 shootout. Tech allowed 666 yards of total offense to the Red Raiders. Holtz said the defense put up quite the comedic performance, as defensive backs ran into each other and at times were nowhere around Texas Tech receivers as they scored touchdowns. "I thought our defense was a joke,'' Holtz said. “I can handle zone defense and them

catching a ball and we're there to try and make a tackle. But when you throw a ball down the field and there's nobody there within 20 yards with the number of times they caught the ball, that's a joke. Texas Tech quarterback Patrick Mahomes had a field day against the Tech defense as he threw for 470 yards and five touchdowns. Holtz said he has been around the game of football for quite some time and Tech’s defensive performance was something for the ages. "That was as bad of a defensive performance as I've ever seen, as I've ever been a part of,” Holtz said. “I'm embarrassed.” Ryan Higgins, senior quarterback for Tech, said he has not lost any confidence in Tech’s defense despite their poor play. "No. I mean, I wouldn’t say it’s embarrassing. It sucks and we’re all upset, but I know what my defense can do and I know the players

we have and I know the mistakes they can correct," Higgins said. "I trust them moving on in the season." There were silver linings to be found in the game. Jarred Craft ran for a career-high 153 yards. Trent Taylor had seven catches for 166 yards and Carlos Henderson had nine grabs for 130 yards, both living up to their places on the preseason Biletnikoff Award Watch List. Things do not get any easier for Tech’s passing defense as they face the sixth ranked passing offense of Middle Tennessee State next. The Blue Raiders average 370.7 passing yards a game and will hope to keep their foot on the gas pedal against Tech. Being that their offensive coordinator Tony Franklin was once at Tech, Middle Tennessee may try to be ruthless against the Bulldogs. Tech plays Middle Tennessee State in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, on at 6 p.m. on Saturday night.

Conference matchups to test Lady Techsters ALEX HEARD Staff Reporter | amh072@latech.edu

Overall Record: 2-1, (0-0) Points per game: 40.0 Points allowed per game: 22.7 Players to watch: James Richie – WR 28 catches, 338 yards, 3 touchdowns Darius Harris – LB 23 tackles, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery MTSU is ranked No. 10 in the country in total offense.

Photo by Tom Morris/LATechSportsPix.com

Senior forward Kathryn Sloan currently leads the team in assists and is second in goals behind sophomore Mylene Roy-Ouellet.

When a team is young and full of freshmen there is usually a learning curve. The team must learn the ropes of collegiate sports and struggles early on are understandable. However, for Head Coach Kevin Sherry and his Louisiana Tech women’s soccer team, they are playing well and beyond their years despite 13 freshmen being on the roster. Tech is 9-1-1 and is off to its best start in recent memory. Sherry said the team’s hot start can be attributed to hard work and the players finding their niche. “The team has put in a lot of hard work,” Sherry said. “Players have been focused on learning their roles. They have a better understanding of each individual and what to do in certain situations.” Sherry said compared to previous years’ teams this squad is as cohesive as he has had, they have stepped into their roles with ease. “We lost certain strengths from last year and players have come in and adapted well,” Sherry said. “Freshmen give something different, a bit of peppiness we need.” Sherry said this group of girls is

more than a team. “We are absolutely a family, first and foremost,” Sherry said. “This is a team that demands respect from each other. Everyone gets along well.” Tech has started Conference USA play and won its first C-USA game against Southern Miss with a score of 3-0. Sherry said conference play is a different kind of beast as the games get more physical and heated. “Intensity is off the charts with conference,” Sherry said. “We won at Southern Miss and started with a win to start conference play for the first time in a while. We are not fighting from behind, which we have had to do in years past.” Tech plays arguably its toughest opponents in the next couple of games, Rice and North Texas. Sherry said even if they win only one of those games he will know the team is 100 percent legitimate. “Rice and North Texas are the strongest in conference,” Sherry said. “We win even one of these games coming up we believe we can win CUSA. They are such excellent opponents.” Tech plays Rice at 7 p.m. today at the Lady Techster Soccer Complex.