PAGE 7

See which artists the Tech Talk predicts to win Grammies.

PAGE 6

SUPERFANS
See how two faculty members transform into Superfans.
MORE TALK PAGE 10

MEET THE

Read an update on Techs new and improved intramural center.

Seryn rocks the Dixie Theatre.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

PAGE 7

Volume 86

T ech T alk
February 9, 2012 www.thetechtalk.org

The

PRSRT STD NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION US POSTAGE RUSTON, LA PERMIT NO 104 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

PAID

The student voice of Louisiana Tech University

Number 15

Tech family mourns fallen Bulldog

ANNA CLAIRE THOMAS Sports Editor Shocking. Unreal. Hard to believe. Those are a few of the whispered sentiments of the students walking around an eerily quiet Tech campus on the morning of Feb 2. after hearing of the devastating loss of one of our own. For anyone affiliated with the Tech family, Thursday morning brought heartbreaking news that we had lost not only one of our athletes, but a classmate. Louisiana Tech officials confirmed the worst, the sudden death of running back Tyrone Duplessis, citing unknown causes with an autopsy pending. According to school officials, Duplessis, a 21-year-old redshirt sophomore, was found in a shocking turn of events early Thursday morning in his off-campus apartment. Tech officials expressed their condolences to the family and friends of Duplessis as well as all the members The death of the Tech commuDuplessis, commonly nity in a statement referred to as Roni released with Presiand Fun Size by his dent Dan Reneau teammates, came as a speaking on behalf shock to not only evof the university. eryone affiliated with Tyrone was Louisiana Tech, but not only a valuable to anyone associated member of our with the college sports football program, world and left quesbut much more imtions unanswered. DUPLESSIS portantly, he was a I think the two valued member of things that stand out the Tech family, for everybody are why Reneau said. This is a painful did it happen--and thats someloss for our campus community thing well obviously never be and our thoughts and prayers able to answer--and the second are with his friends and family. thing is what happened, and we You see it on occasion in dont know anything yet honsports, the sudden passing of estly, head coach Sonny Dykes an athlete gone too soon. It said. seems exceptionally hard to Duplessis, a player out of grasp when it happens to a New Orleans, came to Tech 20-something student athlete from O.P Walker High School, . just starting out in his career. where he won a state champiWhen it does happen to onship, and was in his third-year strike at various schools, every- as a member of the Bulldog one expresses sadness without football team. believing it can actually happen During his time at Tech, to someone so closely associ- Duplessis, who earned all-state ated with them. honors as a high school standout, played in 11 games with 77 rushes for 274 yards. Dykes said the teams ability to cope with the loss of a teammate will be a collective effort for the players, coaches and fans. We have to rely on each other, he said. Thats the biggest thing we have to do. You get through this with your family, and this is our family. Our players know this will not be an easy thing to get through. Itll take a long time, and Im not sure its something you ever get over, but its something you survive and work through. In a testament to how meaningful Duplessis was to the Ruston community, teammates, friends, fans and well-wishers took to Twitter, Facebook and other forms of social media to express their condolences throughout the weekend in support of Duplessis and his family and friends. His jersey number, 22, was made on a banner with the Tech emblem and put up as a profile picture for hundreds of Tech students within hours of his death. The hash tag #RIPTDLATECH was and is still being used on Twitter by students, fans and friends mourning the loss. Within 24 hours of his passing, a memorial fund was set up in recognition of Duplessis as well as a public memorial service for anyone wanting to honor his memory. Duplessis locker will remain untouched for the 2012 football season in honor of the Bulldogs fallen teammate while students across campus have had the chance to honor Duplessis publicly with a tribute to his life in a window outside the library. Dykes spoke of Duplessis passion for the game of football and life in general and described him as someone who loved to be around his teammates, and people enjoyed being around him. He had a very outgoing personality and had a unique way of dealing with people that was kind of fun.

SGA seeks promotion for its own name

MOLLY BOWMAN Staff Reporter A budget was approved by the Student Government Association in the fall quarter that contained a line item to purchase items to promote SGAs name on campus and to encourage students to participate in campus elections and other activities. An uninformed group of senators who were unaware the line item was contained in the approved fall budget introduced the bill for SGA promotion, which was subsequently approved by the body Jan. 31. When an SGA official reminded the group they had previously approved funds to promote SGA, the bill was promptly tossed out. As a result, $600 will be drawn from the SGA public relations fund to purchase a table cloth, banner and sign to promote SGA at campus events such as orientation, elections and organization fairs. Despite the initial confusion surrounding this issue, many students approve the spending of these funds. Bryan Babcock, SGA senior class president, said this bill would be a good way to stimulate student interest in the organization and be more receptive to the things it does. He also said it would create a better atmosphere for students when they need to come to the SGA. SGA is here for the students, Babcock said. Were the voice of the students and we just wanted a better way of doing that. Kaleb Causey, College of Liberal Arts senator, drafted the bill along with the support of co-signers Babcock and Allison East, an SGA sophomore class senator. East said one of SGAs main problems is that it does not have enough people running for offices during elections. She said SGA is

> see DUPLESSIS page 9

COES closer to funding new building

LISA PLAISANCE Staff Reporter Having recently raised $3 million, the College of Engineering and Science is closer to getting its new Integrated Engineering and Science Building, which is estimated to cost $15 million. James Nelson, associate dean of undergraduate studies for the COES, said the college is hoping to raise $7.5 million and use state grants to pay for the other half. Nelson said the new building will encourage more collaboration among programs, facilitate the project-based curriculum and accommodate study groups for students. It will be designed to accommodate our integrated learning curriculum, helping students make connections among engineering, math and science programs, he said. Nelson said all the core faculty that teaches the freshman and sophomore engineering math and science classes will be in the new building. German Velazquez, a sophomore mechanical engineering major, said he likes the idea of most of his core classes being in the same building. It would make things more convenient because now were all over the place, he said. Nelson said having faculty from the engineering, math and science programs will promote more collaboration. Nelson said the college currently has limited collaboration because of the layout. Most of the good ideas weve had have come from conversation in the hall between teachers in different departments, he said. He said the design for the new building will include a lot of open space conducive to the students projects. Instead of traditional lecture rooms, Nelson said there will be more classrooms with tables and the necessary tools and equipment. Weve made it work in the rooms we have now, but weve had to force fit it, he said. We also want a lot of space in the building that will encourage students to have small groups. Many groups of students use unoccupied classrooms and benches in the hallways to gather and work together, Nel-

> see COES page 8

The new Integrated Engineering and Science Building is estimated to cost $15 million and will include open space for student projects.

Submitted Photo

> see SGA page 8

Cyber engineering major to be offered fall 2012

AMRIT AWAL Staff Reporter This fall, the College of Engineering and Science is continuing to develop its innovative and high-quality programs by offering cyber engineering to students. Stanley Napper, dean of the College of Engineering and Science, said Techs cyber engineering is the first program of its kind in the nation geared to help create skilled cyber work force. There are other universities providing programs on cyber security systems, but Tech is the first university offering cyber engineering including cyber security courses, he said. Cyber engineering is beyond cyber security, which includes basic scientific and engineering fundamentals to solve problems related to secure information, access control and other issues. Napper said companies and other institutions such as chemical processing plants, manufacturing facilities, aerospace, automotive, process material, defense contractors and military agencies and financial institutions as well as software companies, need professional help because of cyber threats. There is a desperate and growing demand for Believe me, technical professionals there are a lot of who understand cyber people whose sole security and know how purpose in life is to to defend information annoy and cause and physical systems, chaos for some he said. Tech will utireasons, he said. lize its high interdisciCyber engineering plinary effort, a spewill deal with the cial strength that Tech security issue that has. would come up in Jean Gourd, an asfuture and avoid sistant professor of those potential vulNAPPER computer science, nerabilities. said cyber security is Gourd said peoa growing issue and ple across the counmore expertise and technical try are attempting unauthorprofessionals are required in ized access in order to control government security agencies the system device or network and private companies. of our country. By indicating the news published in national newspaper. Thats why our government is addressing the situation in national level by focusing on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), he said. Delvin Jackson, a graduate computational analysis and modeling major, said it is important to learn more about cyber space and its application to the engineering process. I feel cyber-related threats are important at the moment, he said. Problems related to hacking into systems could potentially take down the control system, which could be dangerous to general public.

Jackson also said he hopes Techs cyber engineering program will meet the demand of job markets, and it should focus on cyber and cyber security. Napper said Tech has a long history of teaching engineering and adequate sources to begin new science programs, which involves new technologies. We have been teaching engineering for 115 years, he said. No other university has the capability to offer programs like cyber engineering, because they lack specialized equipment and a faculty with expertise.

Email comments to aaw024@latech.edu.

2 The T T ech alk February 9, 2012

Campus

Advancement team applications due

Dick J. Reavis, far left, and a mine worker descend into a dangerous Mexican pocito, a type of coal mine not seen in industrial countries since the 18th century. After a mine like this blew up, killing a dozen people, Reavis wrote a series for the San Antonio Express-News on the dangers of these mines. The series was translated and republished by Mexicos Newsweek, Proceso.
Submitted photos

Applications for Techs Student Advancement Team are due Feb. 24 at the Marbury Alumni Center. The student advancement team is a group of student that helps promote and better the university through the alumni association. Applications for the team can be picked up at the alumni center. Applicants must be currently enrolled at Tech, have a cumulative 3.0 GPA, have letters of recommendation and go through an interview process. The team is a link between the university and the alumni and students will gain leadership and become a student applicant. For more information contact Jimmy Washington, admissions counselor, at jimmy@ latechalumni.org or 318-2557950.

Temple Tech Church holds revival Reset

Hes not frightened of anything

Journalist to discuss career and media at Tech
what you learn at small town papers gives you a whole look at society. You cover the school board and the Kiwanis club. You get to know how one small town operates. For Reavis first year at the paper, it was all fun and games. The second, it was easier, and then the third year, he got bored. Most of the events you cover, you can put on a calendar, he said. The harvest comes about the same time every year. Reavis decided to go back to graduate school, where he obtained a masters degree in philosophy from University of Texas at Arlington. While there, he attended a forum where he met a prominent freelance writer, Gary Cartwright, from Texas Monthly, one of the most respected publications in the nation. You sell stories by knowing editors, Reavis said. Someone at the Monthly saw a story I wrote, and then I started getting short assignments from them, and this led to longer ones. At that time, most of the staff at Texas Monthly had Ivy League bachelors degrees and masters degrees in creative writing. I thought to myself, what can I do that they cant? Reavis asked himself, and the answer: He could speak Spanish. From having been in the civil rights movement, I wasnt scared of anything. I could cover the people they didnt know how to talk to, and I could cover Mexico because they didnt have anyone who could speak Spanish, Reavis said. Reavis has spoken Spanish since he was 16 years old, and it was this and his fearless approach to journalism that got him the job. This led Reavis to his first story covering a group of guerillas in Mexico. You immerse yourself in the subject you are writing about for a couple of months, so you know it better than any journalist, he said. You do it so you can discuss the relevant factors with people. Reavis would go on to be senior editor at Texas Monthly and write for them for the next 10 years. The only reason the Texas Monthly put up with me was because I could cover Mexico, he said. Reavis then worked at The San Antonio Light and after 18 months, went to The Dallas Observer, where he was working in 1993 when the ATF and FBI raided the Branch-Davidian compound, Mt. Carmel near Waco. The raid became a media spectacle. After a 51-day stand-off, in which David Koresh and his followers refused to surrender to the FBI, the Mt. Carmel compound caught fire killing 74 people, 25 of which were children. Nine survivors were tried on counts of aiding and abetting, the murder of federal officers and unlawful possession of firePATRICK BOYD News Reporter Dick J. Reavis isnt scared of anything, especially when it comes to getting a good story. His approach to journalism is as fierce as a West Texas dust storm, and when he speaks, his voice is slow, yet deliberate and precise like a poet or orator. Hell, I would rather hang out with the poets. They can write better, said Reavis, a professor at North Carolina State University in Raleigh who will speak at Tech Wednesday. With six books under his belt and numerous articles in Texas Monthly magazine, where he was an editor, Reavis has dedicated his life to covering everything from the Bandidos Motorcycle Club, where he bought a Harley and carried a gun for protection, to faking his identity and going undercover to get a story. Reavis does not just cover events though. He participates. I think of myself as a magazine writer primarily, Reavis said. Magazine copy was a big jump from working in newspapers. If you talk to the novelist, they say it is easier to write a novel than a short story. Reavis comes from a family of small-town journalists, so he had exposure to the trade from a young age. I think I learned from that a certain approach to journalism, but I never wanted to do it because I had grown up in it. Reavis went to undergraduate school at the University of Texas at Austin from 1963-68, where he majored in English. At age 19, Reavis moved to Alabama to work for Martin Luther King Jr. organization, and the experience was life-changing for him. It changed my whole outlook on everything, he said. I certainly didnt want to be a journalist because I saw what the newspapers were saying about us. He worked for three years as a welfare worker and in the course of this, wrote several free-lance articles for the underground press. I was 28 before I ever got paid for a news story, he said. I still consider myself a leftwing journalist, but I consider myself critical of anyones opinion. Reavis came out of the civil rights movement mad as hell. In the late 60s, everyone was joining left wing parties. There were the Students for a Democratic Society and the Weathermen. They were like Occupy, but with bad manners. The Weathermen was a radical anti-American leftist group who plotted the violent overthrow of the U.S. government starting in the late 60s through the mid-70s. After working for the underground press, Reavis moved back to Texas and worked at his fathers paper for three years. My mother had to convince my father to let me have the job, Reavis said. Learning

Temple Baptist Church will host Reset, a student revival, starting at 6 p.m. Feb. 12 through Feb. 15. Monday through Wednesday the revival will begin at 7 p.m. The four-day event is geared toward junior high, high school and college students. The revival will center on topics such as faith, focus, feelings and family. Guest speaker John Smith, a community resource speaker, will lecture and the gathering band will hold a contemporary worship service. For more information contact Casey Casady, college minister at Temple Baptist Church, at 318-514-8098 or casey.casady@gmail.com.

Krewe of Allegro to host Mardi Gras Ball

Dick J. Reavis, right, signs autograph at a 2010 book signing in San Antonio.

The Ruston Civic Symphony Society, Krewe of Allegro, is hosting its annual Mardi Gras Ball from 7 p.m.-midnight Feb. 18 at the Ruston Civic Center. Tickets, which are payable by cash or check only, are $60 per person. The event will include a dinner catered by Campatori Catering, a cash bar, dancing and live music from The Buddy Terzia Band. The event is a fundraiser to help bring classical music to local schools. Individual tickets are available or a table for up to eight people can be reserved and they include dinner and two complimentary drinks. For more information contact Becky Napper, treasurer for the Ruston Civic Symphony Society, at 318-243-8887 or 318-255-7272.

Organization accepting applications

Dick J. Reavis, right, talks with child soldier from the FARC (Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, a guerrilla group) in the jungles of Colombia. arms. thaws. The editor sent me there Reavis tried to pitch the stoto do a story on Waco, and ry to his editors at The Dallas the only source of informa- Observer, but was not granted tion were from the press con- the time to work on the story, ferences the ATF (U.S. Bureau so he quit work there and got of Alcohol, Tobacco and Fire- a book deal with Simon and arms) and FBI had every day, Schuster. he said. The press conferencOver the course of the next es reminded me of the press year, Reavis immersed himself conferences in Mexico. They in the teachings of the Branch gave us coffee and doughnuts, Davidians, attended trials and and we werent allowed to talk read 10,000 pages of tranto the other side, because they scripts. were in jail. All of his efSeeing that the forts resulted in government was the book The not going to give a Ashes of Waco, straight story, Reastill considered a vis knew he would definitive inveshave to get a story tigation into the from the Davidians Waco affair and Dick J. Reavis themselves. the first to queswill speak in I got a call from Wyly Tower Auditorium tion the governsomeone saying all Wed., Feb 15th at 6 p.m. ments involvethe survivors were ment. FREE TO PUBLIC staying in a hotel in If you reRefreshments served Waco, he said. ally do listen to At first, Reavis human beings, could not get the it builds friendBranch Davidians to talk to ships. You may write things him at all, but he had some- about them but if you are any thing they didnt a car. good in the process, you will I sat in the lobby and even- convince them you are good tually they would ask me for and you will give them a fair a ride, he said. If you hang break. That is pretty much true around any group of people of all the underworld types I for five to six hours, the ice work with, Reavis said. Since Waco, Reavis interviewed Timothy McVeigh for a book he was under contract to write on the Oklahoma City bombings in 1995, where an office building was blown up in response to Waco and the right-wing government. Reavis has also authored seven other books including the most recent Catching Out: The Secret World of Day Laborers, where Reavis went undercover as a day laborer and worked menial jobs, and is a gritty and seldom observed view of the job force. I am on sabbatical right now from the university and finishing up another book, Reavis said. Sabbaticals are good for any trade. After a number of years you are living in a tunnel and you need to get back out into the real world. It will help whenever you eventually have to return to that tunnel. Reavis goal in journalism was never to change the world. Changing the world has never been an objective for me though, he said. I needed to keep myself alive, and I had a sense of that all along.

Lagniappe Ladies are accepting grant requests from any campus organization, team, project or initiative that is trying to make a positive impact on Tech or the Ruston community. Multiple grants will be awarded and limited to $5,000 or less. Tech alumni, friends and other financial resources will meet to determine the grant recipients. Grant applications can only be submitted by email and are due March 2. For more information contact Jennifer Riley, executive director of development and legal counseling, at 318-255-7950 or jennifer@latechalumni.org.

Tech choir to perform winter concert

Email comments to gpb009@latech.edu.

Tech choirs will host a winter concert from 7:30-10:30 p.m. Tuesday in Howard Auditorium, Center for the Performing Arts. Admission to this event is free to all. Students and community members of Ruston selected and voted on the songs that will be performed at the concert. The choirs will perform music by Dickau, Van Dijk, Brahms, Ginsberg and more. For more information contact Sean Teets, director of choral activities, at 318-2575272 or steets@latech.edu.

February 9, 2012 The T T ech alk 3

Organization raises trafficking awareness

MOLLY BOWMAN Staff Reporter Women and children in America are at risk of being sexually exploited and taken for bonded labor in a modern age. Some Tech students like Tameka Franklin, a sophomore psychology major, believe human trafficking and slavery is a big issue today that needs to be addressed by the media. Its frightening because you have to be aware of something like this, she said. Its probably not likely to happen to me, but its still possible. Today, there are approximately 27 million slaves in the world who are being sold at an average of $90. Victims are forced into prostitution, involuntary enslavement and other sex acts, according to dosomething. org. Christobel Asiedu, an assistant professor of sociology, said it is such a large issue because it is the second most profitable illegal enterprise. She said people in poor countries and those displaced by war are looking for economic support and trafficking is an easy business. There are all these numbers of individual cases where they find the motivation is just for these people to make money, she said. In almost all cases, women and children are the targets because they are more vulnerable. Asiedu said that mainly the victims of trafficking are from poor countries. She said the legal systems in these countries do not work properly because of corrupt officials and the lack of enforcement of the law. Although the victims might not be Americans, this issue needs to be brought to attention in the United States, Asiedu said. I think that now because we live in a globalized world, whatever happens -- even if its not such an issue in the U.S. -- the fact that there are people who are brought from elsewhere into America to be bonded in forced labor or that children are being exploited sexually and women as well, that should be a concern, she said. In January, Rebecca Cunningham, a senior psychology major, started a campus chapter of International Justice Mission at Tech. She said IJM is an organization that rescues and provides support for victims of sexual oppression and slavery. The new campus chapter plans to help stifle human trafficking statistics by raising awareness of this issue by collaborating with other on-campus organizations. The more we bring awareness, the more people will become involved and who knows what people are capable of doing, Cunningham, president of IJM, said. Cunningham said she was inspired to start a campus chapter because of a bike trip she took this past summer from Seattle to New York City. During the biking trip she stayed in small towns with populations of approximately 30 people and raised money to help fight human trafficking. We saw how much of an impact they made, and I wanted to start a campus chapter, she said. Those communities consisting of 30 people could make such an impact; what can we do at Tech and in Ruston? Last December, Google took the initiative to fight modern day slavery by donating $11.7 million to anti-slave organizations, $9.8 million of that going toward the IJM, according to usatoday.com. I thought it was awesome because Google as a corporation was staking a stand, Cunningham said. Even if corpo-

Photo by Sumeet Shrestha

Carolyn Davis, a sophomore in radiology, signs a petition to urge President Obama to help end human trafficking once and for all. The petition needs 27,000 signatures. So far there are 22,837 signatures. rations cant donate that much money, Ive been hearing a lot more about corporate responsibility. Many organizations and corporations are taking a stand and signing contracts saying that their company is not involved in child labor. Cunningham said there were no words to describe how she felt when she learned the number of slaves and people being sexually exploited. Its heartbreaking and saddening, she said. It just shows the reality of how much evil ex-

ists today. It makes you realize how much you take your freedom for granted. Its not just like modern day slavery, its their humanity.

Email comments to mmb041@latech.edu.

School of Art receives $100,000 scholarship

LISA PLAISANCE Staff Reporter The School of Art has received an endowed scholarship totaling $100,000 from Reba K. Neel, a retired Tech professor. Jonathon Donehoo, director for the School of Art, said the gift will provide money to undergraduate students beginning either spring or fall of 2013. This is the largest endowed scholarship we have, so it will certainly make a difference in students lives, said Donehoo. Donehoo said most scholarships the School of Art gives are from endowed gifts, meaning the principal amount is never touched and the scholarship money is the interest accrued annually on the gift. This way, scholarship money will always be available, unlike with one-time donations. Donehoo said Neel was open to his suggestions about how to award the scholarships. If there are some very strong students, we can give scholarships of a higher amount, or we can give more scholarships of a smaller amount, Donehoo said. Some art students said the School of Art needs scholarships to help students pay for not only the typical college expenses, but all the specific supplies that art majors need. John Williams, a senior communication design major, said professional aviation, he said. art students have to buy particWilliams said he knew a ular supplies, such as software student who once considered and specific types of dropping her art mapaper, pencils and jor because of the paint. cost. Generally a lot Eric Gilmore, a juof incoming freshnior communication men dont realize design major, said the how expensive their average cost of supfirst year as an art plies for art classes is major is going to be, approximately $300. he said. Gilmore said in Williams said he communication dethinks art is one of sign, students are DONEHOO the most expensive also required to get majors. expensive software Ive heard from and are encouraged several photography majors to get a Mac. its the second most expensive Scholarships could definitemajor at Tech, second only to ly be used in those two aspects [supplies and software] alone, he said. We need it because whats the point of living without art. Donehoo said because the scholarship money comes from the interest earned, the amount will change every year. He said this also means the gift will not provide any scholarship money until it has earned interest for one year. Students who receive them will be nominated by faculty and the final decision is up to the director, he said. Theres no particular procedure, but the faculty know their students. He said this isnt certain, but this was the general idea of what he discussed with Neel.

Neel was a professor in the College of Business and served as department chair for office administration in the College of Business from 1965 until her retirement in 1986. She took occasional classes with us and worked with several of our teachers, Donehoo said. Neel was a painter herself, Donehoo said, and took courses at the School of Art while teaching at Tech. She always had an appreciation for the arts and was a great supporter of the arts both here on campus and in the community, Donehoo said.

Email comments to lrp014@latech.edu.

Photo by Cody Bryant

Larry Rowan, a junior computer information science major, serves as a crew member for Techtv. He and other and work to provide entertainment for students on campus.

TV station encourages student participation

DEREK AMAYA Staff Reporter Earlier this year, Techtv lost its ability to broadcast copyrighted movies due to the redistribution of funding. Cody Bryant, a senior photography major and station manager of Techtv, said the university created a survey to ask students if they would rather have movies on Techtv or faster Internet. Ultimately the students picked faster Internet, he said. Bryant said since the movies were cut, something has to fill the time void. He said Techtv will start airing different skits, commercials and new original series for students entertainment by the end of February. Not only can students watch the shows, but Bryant said they are encouraged to participate by writing skits, acting or submitting ideas. Techtv is looking for students to help with our original programming that airs on the channel throughout the day, he said. We are currently looking for individuals to act in some of our originals so that students have the opportunity to be a part of a TV station and to be on TV. Bryant said students can contact the station at Techtv. latech.edu or come by their office located in the residential life building. He said by participating in the programs, students will receive benefits by working with video, being able to act on programs that will be on the channel and students can learn what it takes to be a part of the production. We currently have three original series that they could be a part of and also the commercials and highlights that we regularly work on, he said. There is currently no exact skit we can announce that they would be in, but if they show interest and a drive to be a part of Techtv than they can join. Larry Rowan, a junior computer information science major and crew member at Techtv, said the skits will provide new and original entertainment for students on campus. These skits would give students the opportunity to connect and contribute to the school and the opportunity to learn about the technical aspects of filming and video editing, he said. Im sure it would give students great pride to work on a project from day one and to be a part of the finished product. Jeremy Kullbeth, a senior kinesiology major, said he thinks Techtv right now is a waste of the students tuition money, but the new additions to the channel could be a major benefit to the station. I think the skits could potentially bring a lot more viewers, he said. They just need to advertise more around campus either by email, Techs website or a quick link. I never see them advertise anywhere. Kullbeth said he believes the benefits in working for Techtv will attract student workers and he also said he believes it will give new hope for the station. Universities do not always have classes involving broadcasting, he said. I think it will be beneficial to students who want to get into this profession. Rowan said he would like to hear more input from the students regarding the TV station. Watch Techtv. We provide original content such as a cooking show, news show, a talk show and sports highlight show, he said. Tune in to channel 4.1 on your digital televisions. Bryant also said he thinks the new programs will attract students to Techtv. I want everyone to know that we are still here with original content such as Puppy Chow, Dawg Talk, Whatsupwhatsup, Event Replay and our informational slide shows, he said. We also have a YouTube channel where you can catch a lot of our originals after they air on the channel.

BEAUTY SCHOOLS
BOSSIER CITY RUSTON

20% o with student ID

Foils............................................................................ $ 24.00 Cuts................................................(Men & Women) $ 6.40 Color................................$ 11.60 (Does not include style) Flat Iron......................................................................$ 12.00 Funky Colors........................................... $6.00 (Per panel)
For a full list of services visit our website www.patgoins.com 213 West Alabama Ave. Ruston, LA 318.255.2717
All work preformed by students supervised by licensed instructors.

Cuts& Colors

Email comments to dja014@latech.edu.

Insight
JUSTIN FORT News Editor

4 The T T ech alk February 9, 2012

SIE KONNEN NON CAPIRE

And they call it teaching
I took a test on Jan. 24. In the following class period, my instructor informed the entire class that some students were suspected of cheating. He then went on to tell the class how insulted he was. He said he was disappointed. He said adults did not act this way. He said it was a waste of his time to teach the class if students were going to cheat and that the time we were wasting was valuable to him, if not valuable to us. I could not agree more. I fully accepted his anger and his disappointment; I understand what he said is true. After that experience, another thought came to my mind. I thought about the value of my own time. Having only 24 hours in a day, I need to exercise, eat, sleep, visit with family, read, etc. I have things I like to do that are hindered by class. At least teachers get paid to have their time wasted. I pay to waste my own time. Why a hindrance? That is what most of my classes are. Like Googles definition reads, my classes are a thing that provides resistance, delay, or obstruction to something or someone. I spend approximately 15 hours sitting in class each week, give or take the time I spend standing to stretch. The time is not what is hindering me. The teachers are. I am not learning. I have been at Louisiana Tech for three years. I have learned little. I go to class, and most teachers are letting me read a PowerPoint they obviously spent so much time on or telling me to read a book. Is that teaching? No. I shouldnt be told to read a book and given a test on it to see if Im learning. I could do that myself. In fact, I do that on my own. There should be discussion. Teacher and student should interact. My time is wasted when Im not learning. With the amount of effort put forth by students and teachers alike, can Tech really even call itself a selective admissions university? No. Selective? Really? Too many students have GPAs that are only impressive when viewed as a batting average. But we are selective. If we want to claim that title and the prestige that comes along with only accepting the best of the best, then we have to start making people the best of the best. In my opinion, Tech is not. If this school is selective, it should challenge students because faculty members and administrative officials believe those who are accepted can live up to the higher standards. To be clear, I love this school, and I have had a handful of teachers, including the teacher who invoked this thought, who have taught me something; they are the minority. If Tech is going to continue to grow, if Tech wants to remain a Tier One university, it needs to up its game. Classes that can be skipped weekly because of their ease should not be talked about. Mandatory attendance is a joke many teachers laugh at and ignore. Do not require me to attend a class when Im not requiring you to teach me anything. Justin Fort is a senior pre-law and journalism major from Choudrant who serves as news editor for The Tech Talk. Email comments to jwf014@ latech.edu.

FROM THE EDITOR

Finding a positive outlook

MARY TIMMONS Editor-In-Chief

WORDS WITH ATTITUDE

Celebrate year round, not monthly
SHERELLE BLACK Managing Editor As soon as Feb. 1 hit, I was elated, thrilled and exhilarated! February, although the shortest month of the year, is considered one of my favorite months due to all the festivities associated with it. When I think about it, I begin to wonder why do people wait until February to celebrate black history, give up an item they are obsessed with or show the love they have for one another. As an African-American woman in college I find myself guilty of partaking in the activities that could be celebrated in any other month as well. February is the one month where groups, actually take time out to celebrate and recognize black history. While I am proud to have a month dedicated to black history, for me, I refuse to just commemorate black history during February. I am black 365 days of the year, so why should I think about my history only during four weeks of February? Black history is far too great and encompasses far too many historical figures and dates for me to compress it to one short month. To add to the festivities of Black History Month, there is the infamous Mardi Gras break. I have never been to New Orleans to see what all the talk is about, but this February I will be taking the trip to see. Honestly, I think Fat Tuesday is used as an excuse for college students and those adults who never seem to grow up to get together to get drunk and partake in the festivities that happen on Bourbon and many other streets in the state. If that happens to be the case, why try to tie it in with something religious by saying this is your last chance to party before you give up something for Lent when after lent you go right back to doing it? I would be lying if I said I am not anticipating this trip to New Orleans because I am. After all, college is supposed to be the time of your life, so why not live it up? The difference is Im not going to be one person before Mardi Gras and another after. Unfortunately, I have found a major flaw in the celebrating of this month and it goes by the name of Valentines Day otherwise known as single awareness day. Valentines Day is the one day when you are more aware than usual of the status of your relationship(s). It is the one holiday in this month that you depend on somebody else to enjoy it. This year I have been informed that because it is a leap year the woman has to treat and ask the man out on Valentines Day. While many people have heard about this rule I, however, have not. I had high hopes for Valentines Day. Im talking about teddy bears, chocolate, movies and dinner. Now Im not sure how plausible this is. When I really sat down and thought about it, I realized it really does not matter who asks whom or who pays for what as long as you spend that day with that special someone. Women wait all year for Valentines Day in hopes that they will be treated special, but why should we think it is right to be treated good well on special occasions? A woman should be adored and shown how special she is every day! I am not just referring to your love interest, but every woman you know should be treated well, for women are the reason the world goes round. Also, all women should show men how much they love and appreciate them every day. When it comes to love, you should never hesitate to show how you feel because you never know when it is somebodys time to go. Recently, the passing off Tyrone Duplessis opened my eyes to this. He was taken so soon from us and so suddenly that it was truly tragic. Im glad that I can say I never was never anything less than a kind friend to him. No matter what you celebrate in February just remember that you should take time out during the rest of the year to do the same thing. Never wait for a certain day or month to express yourself because life is not promised to anyone. Sherelle Black is a junior journalism major from Bossier City who serves as managing editor for The Tech Talk. E-mail comments to ako005@latech. edu.

When I started Tech as a journalism major I was immediately taught If it bleeds, it leads. While this is true it does not necessarily mean that there is only bad news being reported around the world. While having a casual conversation among friends earlier this week, I was asked why the news reported always seems to be bad. My friend said that there are always stories about depressing issues. He was right. In one day I read six headlines on the MSNBC website that contained the words fatality, rape, death and crash. Similar headlines can be found on any news website. I dont criticize what these news sites have done. As a journalist it is my job and honestly I would have done the same thing but not because I want to report on the sad issues in the world. Instead, I do it because I know it will be something others will read. If I were to write one story about a man committing a detailed murder and another that focused on the positive role models in todays society, which one are you more likely to read? There is good news out there, but do others care to read it? If one were to dig a little deeper into the MSNBC website and actually look at more than just the top headlines, he or she would find just as many positive stories opposed to negative. While in one day I read six negative headlines I also saw several others that focused on something positive. It makes me think society, not just journalists, get more out of the negativity in the world as opposed to the positivity. When I read something negative it makes me appreciate my life and feel more positive about myself. It makes me realize how happy I am that I havent been faced with some of the struggles that others have endured. While this may be selfish, I cant help but believe that Im not the only individual in the world who thinks this way. The reason more negative headlines and stories are seen is because they tend to be the ones that attract more readers. Does any one really want to read about the millions of people who made it to work safely or would he or she rather read about the 50 who died in fatal car wrecks before their shift even started? Negativity is something that has engulfed all forms of media. Movies, reality TV, video games and music are just as guilty of exposing the public to traumatic issues. I recently saw a Rihanna music video that displayed her having a domestic dispute in a car. I watched a movie where a woman murdered children. I played a video game that required me to kill another character in order to win. These things were developed because it is the type of conflict or unusualness in which society has interest. I dont expect anyone who reads this to stop looking at negative news stories. I dont intend on not publishing something simply because it is negative. I do however hope that people realize media are not fully responsible for exposing society to negativity. If there were less of an interest in death, depression and rape we might be exposed to media that encourage a happier mind set. In the end all I can really say is that weve done it to ourselves.

A SLICE OF HUMBLE PIE WITH SARAI

Driver released after causing wreck
NAOMI ALLISON News Editor Gov. Barbour gave full, complete and unconditional pardons to 203 other people who were convicted of horrific acts as well. Despite the angry reactions of others, Barbour said he felt comfortable with the pardons and that his faith taught him the power of redemption. I believe in second chances and I try hard to be forgiving, Barbour said. I am very comfortable and totally at peace with these pardons. Though many individuals were shocked by the recent turn of events, Shannon Warnock, chairwoman of the Mississippi Parole Board, said Bosticks release is justified. In an issued statement she said, I can say that Mr. Bosticks application was supported by testimonials from trustworthy and outstanding members of the community. While the reported circumstances of that arrest are troubling, our system of justice does regard everyone as innocent until proved guilty. I am disappointed with the actions of Barbour and his staff. Clearly, they did not do their homework. I feel that Barbours case was overlooked due to IRS officer status and his relationship with power-hungry individuals in the federal system. I mean, does Barbour even feel guilty? How would he feel if one of his relatives had been killed by a drunk driver? To me, the entire situation was handled incorrectly. The attorney generals office should have made the governor aware of Bosticks latest arrest and the Smith family should have been alerted about his potential release. The DA should just file or refile the charges regarding the case. Hopefully Bostick can do the criminal justice system and his liver a favor by putting down the alcohol and wine coolers, and drinking some fruity beverages instead. Overall, reading this article and reflecting on my past has changed my perspective on life. When I first came to Tech in 2009, I was a sheltered, naive freshmen and preachers daughter. On the outside, I acted bold, strong and extremely confident (as as if I knew everything), but in reality I was the complete opposite. I didnt know life was unfair. I didnt know about the decisions I would have to make, the obstacles I would face, the types of people I would encounter or about the trials of life I would have to deal with by myself. I didnt know I would be underestimated. In a nutshell, I was lost, confused and partially ignorant. In my heart, I didnt know who I truly was or the girl that I had the potential to become. However, at the end of the day, I realized life is what you make it. You have to learn to embrace each moment: second, minute, or hour as if its your last, because the instant you stop breathing or blood stops pulsing through your veins, its over. Of course, youre going to have many ups and downs but those are all aspects in building your character. Success is about keeping your head up, learning from experiences and making the best of it. Though I havent figured everything out yet, I can truly say that I have transformed into a matured woman who feels blessed to see where shes going. Naomi Sarai Allison is a junior major from Westlake who serves as managing editor for The Tech Talk. E-mail comments to nsa008@latech.edu.

Mary Timmons is a senior journalism major from Logansport who serves as editor-in-chief for The Tech Talk. E-mail comments to mnt005@latech.edu.

T T ech alk
The student voice of Louisiana Tech University

The

MANAGEMENT
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ASSOCIATE EDITOR MANAGING EDITOR NEWS EDITORS Mary Timmons Rebecca Spence Sherelle Black Naomi Allison Patrick Boyd Justin Fort Amie Rolland Anna Claire Thomas Reina Kempt Dacia Idom Dacia Idom Jessica Van Alstyne Sumeet Shrestha Raven Thissel Dr. Elizabeth Christian Judith Roberts Dr. Reginald Owens Michael LeBlanc Michael LeBlanc Dr. Reginald Owens

As I watched Anderson Coopers piercing blue-eyes grimace in pain during his heartfelt interview with Linda Smith about the death of her 18-year-old daughter, I couldnt help but wonder what Americas criminal justice system has come to. According to an article published by CNN, Harry Bostick, a retired Internal Revenue Service investigator, was granted a pardon by former Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour, despite having a controversial DUI track record and being involved in the recent death of Smiths daughter, Charity. On Oct. 7, Charity was attempting to pull out onto the highway outside Tupelo, Miss. when Bostick, who was driving under the influence, suddenly struck the side of her car with his truck, killing her and injuring her older sister. Bostick, who was placed in jail for the fatal wreck, was released based on a pardon application from a previous charge. In addition, according to an article published by the Huffington Post, before his last day in office

SPORTS EDITOR ASSOCIATE SPORTS EDITOR MULTIMEDIA EDITOR HEAD PHOTOGRAPHER STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS ADVERTISING MANAGER ADVISERS ADVERTISING ADVISER PRODUCTION MANAGER ADVERTISING PRODUCTION DEPARTMENT HEAD

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

PUBLICATION
The Tech Talk (USPS 535-540) is published Thursdays of the regular school year, except in vacation and examination periods, by the Journalism Department of Louisiana Tech University. Publication office is in Keeny Hall, Room 146.

WRITE TO US
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, classification or title. We will not print the telephone number. Viewpoints should be mailed or brought to The Tech Talk office, 146 Keeny Hall, by 4 p.m. the Friday prior to a Thursday publication. Letters should be mailed to The Tech Talk, P.O. Box 10258, Ruston, LA 71272. E mails should be sent to techtalk@latech.edu. You can also submit letters online at www.thetechtalk.org/home/lettertotheeditor/.

POSTAL
Second-class postage paid at Ruston, La. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Tech Talk, P.O. Box 10258, Ruston, LA 71272-0045.

CONTACT US NEWSROOM ADVERTISING

318.257.4946 318.257.4949

February 9, 2012 The T T ech alk 5

World&Nation
ASSOCIATED PRESS PORTLAND, Maine (AP) A tent city thats among the longest-lived Occupy protest encampments is coming down as part of a new wave of eviction orders against demonstrators aligned with the movement in communities including Miami, Washington and Pittsburgh. Demonstrators who established the encampment just two weeks after the Occupy Wall Street encampment set up shop in New York City vowed to continue their work to call attention to corporate excess and economic inequality. Just because the occupation is changing form doesnt mean its going away, Heather Curtis, one of the campers, said Monday before she started hauling away her belongings from snow-covered Lincoln Park. The encampments that were the heart of the movement are becoming scarcer. On Monday, a judge issued what appeared to be the final notice for Occupy Pittsburgh to leave. Over the past week, police began removing demonstrators. On Monday, about 20 demonstrators disrupted a legislative budget hearing in Albany, N.Y., shouting that millionaires should be taxed more. Occupy Maine plans to continue getting its message out through other means, as well. You can only fight for so long and you realize at the end that its a new beginning, said Deese Hamilton, one of the four named plaintiffs in a lawsuit aiming to keep protesters in Lincoln Park. The campers were supposed to be out by Monday morning, and they dismantled four to five communal tents over the weekend. But 16 tents remained Monday morning, and the city granted the groups request for more time, giving them until Friday to finish the cleanup. Theyve asked for this amount of time in order to remove the remaining structures, so were taking them at their word, said Nicole Clegg, city spokeswoman. Occupy Maine started up Oct. 1 with a protest in Portlands Monument square and set up in Lincoln Park two days later.

Occupy Maine protestors evicted from camp grounds

AP Photo

U.S. Park Police officers take down a tent where they found evidence of sleeping materials and live rats. On one of the nations last remaining Occupy sites on McPherson Square in Washington, Feb. 6, 2012. Throughout the frigid Maine winter, when temperatures have dropped below zero, protesters rotated in and out to keep a constant presence, with those in the park keeping the cold at bay by huddling in communal tents equipped with propane heaters. At one point, as many as 70 tents were set up in Lincoln Park, but that number had dropped by the time a state judge last week declined to grant Occupy Maines request for injunction to prevent the city

from enforcing an eviction notice issued Dec. 15. Like in many other cities, Portland officials cited concerns about disturbances, public safety and sanitation at the park, which is supposed to close between 10 p.m. and 6:30 a.m. In Portland, the demonstrators were largely peaceful. But some of the citys homeless moved in, along with associated problems of substance abuse and mental illness. Police said the number of calls to the park jumped after the demonstrators set up camp. In the first big wave of evictions, police acknowledged consulting and sharing information and tactics with colleagues elsewhere. . John Branson, attorney for Occupy Maine, argued that the Portland campers were demonstrating their rights to freedom of expression. He said campers will decide after they finish the cleanup whether they want to continue to pursue the lawsuit. For now, theyre concentrating on getting the park cleaned up, he said, and they plan to raise money to plant new grass and shrubbery in the spring.

Last known WWI veteran dead

ASSOCIATED PRESS LONDON (AP) Florence Green never saw the front line. Her war was spent serving food, not dodging bullets. But Green, who has died aged 110, was the last known surviving veteran of World War I. She was serving with the Womens Royal Air Force as a waitress at an air base in eastern England when the guns fell silent on Nov. 11, 1918. Green died Saturday at the Briar House Care Home in Kings Lynn, eastern England, two weeks before her 111th birthday. Retired Air Vice-Marshal Peter Dye, director-general of the RAF Museum, said it was fitting that the last survivor of the first global war was someone who had served on the home front. In a way, that the last veteran should be a lady and someone who served on the home front is something that reminds me that warfare is not confined to the trenches, Dye said. It reminds us of the Great War, and all warfare since then has been something that involved everyone. Its a collective experience ... Sadly, whether you are in New York, in London, or in Kandahar, warfare touches all of our lives. She was born Florence Beatrice Patterson in London on Feb. 19, 1901, and joined the newly formed Womens Royal Air Force in September 1918 at the age of 17. Green went to work as a her 111th birthday. When we heard the news there was a palpable silence, because we all hoped she would make it, said Squadron Leader Paula Willmot. RAF Marhams station commander, Group Captain David Cooper, said Green will be sorely missed and our thoughts are now with her friends and family. The last known soldier to have fought in the brutal trench warfare twas Britains Harry Patch, who died in 2009 aged 111. The last American veteran of the conflict was Frank Buckles of Charles Town, West Virginia, who drove ambulances in France for the U.S. Army. He died in February 2011. The wars last known combatant, Royal Navy veteran Claude Choules, died in Australia in May. After Choules death, Green became the wars last known surviving service member, according to the Order of the First World War, a U.S.-based group that tracks veterans. Greens husband died in 1970. She is survived by two daughters, a son and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The date of her funeral was not known, but Willmot said air force personnel would attend, and the RAF Association would provide a bugler and a Union Jack to drape on the coffin It will be a real send-off for her, Willmot said

AP Photo

In this Feb. 19, 2010 photo, Florence Green, left, on her 109th birthday is presented with a birthday cake by LAC Hannah Shaw on behalf of the RAF at her home in Kings Lynn, east England. steward in the officers mess, first at the Narborough airdrome and then at RAF Marham in eastern England, and was serving there when the war ended. I met dozens of pilots and would go on dates, she said in an interview in 2008. I had the opportunity to go up in one of the planes but I was scared of flying. I would work every hour God sent. But I had dozens of friends on the base and we had a great deal of fun in our spare time. In many ways, I had the time of my life. Once her service record was rediscovered, the RAF embraced the centenarian veteran, marking her 110th birthday in February 2011 with a cake. Asked what it was like to be 110, Green said Its not much different to being 109. She praised the officers she had served during the war as perfect gentlemen. It was very pleasant and they were lovely, she said. Not a bit of bother. They kept us on our toes and there was no slacking. A delegation from the air base had been due to visit Green on Feb. 19 to celebrate

LETS BE FRIENDS!
VISIT US ON FACEBOOK

APARTMENT
rentals
1 & 2 BR/1 BA apts. 2br/2.5 ba Condos W/D, wifi, sec. sys.

Wesleys
Computer REPAIR
Virus Scan/Removal Windows Recovery Dual Boot Laptop Screen Repair Hard Drive Recovery Home Networking

T echT alk

The

T T ech alk

The

Act Now! First 10 computers LABOR FREE!

318-242-0003

CALL 985.855.9373
Find us on FACEBOOK

The Best Ice Cream in America!*

THE ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT IS SEARCHING FOR TALENTED TECH STUDENTS WITH EXPERIENCE IN SALES.
Strawberry Skydive
TM

HELP!
There are openings for advertising representatives. Qualified student applicants are welcome.

NEEDS YOUR
Marketing majors preferred.
Students must present a resume when applying for the position.

744 Celebrity Dr. Ruston, LA 7127 (318) 251 - 2600

Butter G Peanut

a l ax y

TM

Chocolate 2 the X treme

TM

B Better

atter Boogie Board

TM

This is an opportunity to earn sales experience as well as commission from ad sales.

Please direct any questions to Raven Thissel, advertising manager, at 257-4949 or e-mail us at techtalkads@latech.edu.

*Recipient of the National Ice Cream Retailers Association Blue Ribbon Award of Excellence

6 The T T ech alk February 9, 2012

Photo by Sumeet Shrestha

Lambright construction nearly complete

NATALIE MCELWEE Staff Reporter Whether you like running, swimming, climbing or lounging pool side, Techs Maxie Lambright Intramural Sports Center will be the place to go for a fun time beginning April 2. After much anticipation, the newest addition to Lambright is entering the final phases of a lengthy construction project. Lambright has served as a place for Tech students and the people of Ruston to get fit and strive for a healthy lifestyle since opening in 1981. Bobby Dowling, director of recreation, has been involved with the new construction project since 2006. Dowling said construction started so late after the project was approved because Tech students were more concerned with getting new housing first. We took it to the students for a vote, he said. They voted to build more apartment-style dormitories and get rid of the high-rises and to build this. It was a total package of about $55 million. Tech was using the same architectural firm for both the housing and Lambright projects, Dowling said, so only one job could be completed at a time. They were busy trying to draw plans for housing in different phases, he said. We couldnt make things go any faster. It just worked out that they built the housing and then they got this going. Despite starting later than originally planned, Dowling said construction is going well, and students should be looking forward to the new addition soon. We thought wed be through with this project six months ago and were not, but were getting really close now, he said. It took a lot longer than expected. Dowling said he cannot wait for students to see all Lambright has to offer. This is a very unique and contemporary building, he said. I think students will be amazed at whats here. The new expansion of Lambright will include a $150,000 rock wall, an indoor competition pool, an outdoor recreational pool, new workout equipment, a Counter Culture and a new wellness center. There will be a new stateof-the-art facility to handle student health, he said. Our goal is to be the healthiest campus in Louisiana and in the South. Dowling said he is hoping the new addition will draw a bigger crowd. Were trying to get more of our student body into the building and get more of our student body health-conscious, he said. Dowling also said that fitness choices made now will shape fitness choices in the future. When they leave here, theyll hopefully stay in shape for the rest of their lives. Jesse Willis, a freshman biology major, said the new addition will be another reason for people to enroll at Tech.

Director of recreation, Bobby Dowling, glances at the new indoor swimming pool at Lambright Intramural Center. The building is supposed to be completed by March, and students will be available for student use in April.

I toured it recently, he said. Its impressive. Im ready for it to open. Seeing facilities like that will help draw people toward Tech. Josh Dedeaux, a senior nutrition and dietetics major, said he is excited about the new improvements. Im going to go to the gym more often, he said. More workout equipment will be great, especially during the afternoon when so many people go to the gym. It sounds like its going to be like a resort.

Email comments to nkm003@latech.edu.

Students receive tips on managing budget

ALWAYNE GREEN Staff Reporter Before attending a financial security forum recently, Randy Hegwood did not pay much attention to his personal budget. However, after attending the forum, Hegwood said he is more informed on how to better manage his money. Down to the last penny, I never really thought about budget in that much detail, Hegwood said. Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority and the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity sponsored the forum where they invited a special guest speaker to share his expertise in financial management. This financial forum was sponsored by the Alphas and AKAs to help college students to become more aware of how they should budget and spend their money. The guest speaker Quintin T. Harris, branch manager at the Ruston Chase Bank, shared his expertise on financial management. Harris said students who live financially disciplined lifestyles now will be able to enjoy financial stability later. In order to ensure this, some key lessons must be kept in mind at all times. Be disciplined and keep track of everything you are doing and do not be frivolous, Harris said. Sacrifice is a big piece of it, and in your early years in college and in the work force youve got to sacrifice a little bit now so you can have a little bit later. He also outlined some

Sacrifice is a big a piece of it and in your early years in college and in the work force youve got to sacrifice a little bit now so you can have a little bit later.
Quintin Harris
Manager at Chase Bank

simple steps college students should follow to become more financially secure. Get a budget, Harris said. You need to know what you are spending, how often you are spending and where its going. Zandria Mims, a junior architecture major, said as a college student getting ready to graduate, she thought it was beneficial to attend the forum and learn how to stabilize herself before entering life after college. I learned how to manage my money better and an overall view of where I need to start saving and the different areas of my life I can change in order to have more money to save, Mims said. She said fighting the urge to spend money is her biggest challenge to becoming finanThe

cially secure. There is a lot of new technology that is alluring to students in this era. I think its really difficult especially in this day and age with all the advertisements, she said. But if you really want to get to a certain point in life later you have to make sacrifices. Hegwood said it was great to hear about things he would not necessarily hear about inside the classroom. This sort of life-training course was exactly what he needed to open his mind to thoughts of becoming confident in his budgeting and spending techniques. His biggest issue, along with many other college students, is also to resist the urge to spend money casually. It is extremely hard, especially when you collect your refund all you see is the money, and a lot of it has to do with peer pressure because if you see one of your friends doing something, you want to do it as well, Hegwood said. Harris said he does agree that it is tough to resist the temptations of spending, but in the final analysis, its the future that counts. Your future has to be more important than your present. If you look at athletes, what they do is they sacrifice their time in pre-season so they can get to the championship in the end, Harris said. So where you want to go financially has to be more important than what you want right now materialistically.

We have snack baskets, Home decor, stuffed animals, and balloons for Valentines.
Along with all our other inventory from candles, our Farmhouse Fresh bath line, bags, acrylic cups, tumblers, note pads, and lots of other fun gifts for all ages. We can monogram and personalize just about anything in our store. We deliver and gift wrapping is free!

NOW OPEN!
- Come and see us for Personalized gifts
(Painting, Monogramming, & Vinyl Letters) (Painting, Monogramming, & Vinyl Letters)

Email comments to ahg007@latech.edu.

NEEDS PHOTOGRAPHERS
Photographers are required to cover campus events. A digital SLR camera is required. Great experience for PHOTOGRAPHY MAJORS. Students from all majors may apply.
CONTACT THE TECH TALK OFFICE AT 257-3201 OR SEND AN EMAIL TO MLEBLANC@LATECH.EDU FOR MORE INFO.

T echT alk

Snack Baskets Greek Items Balloons Stuffed Animals Candles Unique Bath Products & Gifts for ALL AGES
(Baby to Adult)

We have something for Everyone!

110 Park Ave. Ruston 318-202-5614

Arts&Entertainment Queue Grammy Award

The
P R E D I C T I O N S

February 9, 2012 The T T ech alk 7

Valentines Day
E D I T I O N
The Queue is a collection of must-see theatrical, rental or streaming media suggestions from The Tech Talk staff.

PATRICK BOYD News Editor

After a stellar year in music with everything from heartwrenching ballads like Someone Like You by Adele to newcomers like Nicki Minaj and The Band Perry, the 54th Annual Grammy Awards are finally here. While the night is probably not going to be too surprising,

with Adele being the front-runner in the six categories she is nominated for, it is nice that Grammy voters are noticing some great acts that have been under the radar for a while. Bon Iver, one of Kanye Wests favorite artists, is nominated for Best Record, Best Song and Best New Artist (even though he is not too new). Speaking of Kanye West,

who had one of the best-reviewed albums of 2010 and got the most nominations with a total of seven, was not nominated for Best Album, the biggest category. The Civil Wars, who are gaining a larger fan base, especially after opening for Adele at her 21 Live tour, snagged a nomination for Best Folk Album, but did not make it into the Best

New Artist category, a definite oversight by voters. The Grammy Awards show itself will feature Adele in her first performance since her throat surgery in November. Other featured performers include Chris Brown, David Guetta, Foo Fighters and Carrie Underwood. The Grammy Awards will be held at 7 p.m. jSunday on CBS.

500 Days of Summer

When an aspiring architect falls in love with his boss beautiful secretary, he tries to convince her shes his soul mate, despite being out of her league. Similar to: Paper Heart, Lost in Translation, Juno, Hes Just Not That Into You, 50 First Dates Where can I view this? Amazon on demand

ALBUM OF THE YEAR

Wasting Light- Foo Fighters Born This Way- Lady Gaga Doo-Wops & Hooligans Bruno Mars Loud Rihanna

RECORD OF THE YEAR

Rolling in the Deep Adele Grenade Bruno Mars The Cave Mumford & Sons Firework Katy Perry

SONG OF THE YEAR

All Of The Lights - Kanye West The Cave - Mumford & Sons Grenade - Bruno Mars Holocene- Bon Iver

BEST NEW ARTIST

The Band Perry Bon Iver J.Cole Skrillex

The Notebook

Two North Carolina teens from very different backgrounds strive to maintain a passionate romance, despite disapproving parents, war and extreme social differences. Similar to: Love Actually, A Walk to Remember, Message in a Bottle Where can I view this? Amazon on demand

Adele 21 BEST POP ALBUM

The Lady Killer- Cee Lo Green Born This Way- Lady Gaga Doo-Wops & Hooligans Bruno Mars Loud Rihanna

Bon Iver Holocene BEST ROCK ALBUM

Rock N Roll Party Honoring Les Paul - Jeff Beck Wasting Light - Foo Fighters Come Around Sundown - Kings Of Leon The Whole Love - Wilco

Adele Rolling in the Deep BEST ALT. ALBUM

Codes And Keys - Death Cab For Cutie Torches - Foster The People Circuital - My Morning Jacket The King Of Limb - Radiohead

Nicki Minaj

BEST RAP ALBUM

Watch The Throne Jay-Z & Kanye West Tha Carter IV - Lil Wayne Lasers - Lupe Fiasco Pink Friday - Nicki Minaj

Casablanca

Set during World War II: An American expatriate must learn to supress his emotions in order to help a former lover and her husband escape from the Morrocan city of Casablanca. Similar to: Wuthering Heights Where can I view this? Amazon on demand

Adele 21

Red Hot Chili Peppers Im With You

Bon Iver Bon Iver

My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy

Kanye West

Film chills with boredom

MOVIE REVIEW
PATRICK BOYD News Editor Trying to scrounge some depth out of the new Daniel Radcliffe movie The Woman in Black is as futile as searching for water in the desert. I went to The Woman in Black expecting something that would pass the time on the gloomy day I saw it. Instead of sending chills down my spine, I was bored and slightly restless throughout. Boredom seems to be a problem with horror films lately, as I found with last years Insidious and Scream 4, both problematic mainly in the way they refuse to take themselves seriously and fall into gimmicks rather than a welldefined story and standards. The Woman in Black, a reboot of the old Hammer studios production, once the leading producer of horror movies in England, seems to have no standards with its jilted plot, underdeveloped characters and sappy, ironic ending. The movie is smart in how deceptively it keeps you from seeing its faults with a stylized technique, evoking gothic eeriness and a flickering, candlelike cinematography. While there is not anything particularly special about the movie, it is Radcliffes performance that bothers me the most. The movie follows Arthur Kipps (Radcliffe) as a failing attorney, still grieving the loss of his wife a few years ago. Radcliffe is sent on an assignment to a small village, and when he arrives, all the children start dying due to a mysterious woman in black who is getting revenge for the

When Harry Met Sally

Watch this heartfelt comedy which questions if men and women can only be friends. Similar to: What a Girl Wants, How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days, Grease, Hairspray, Legally Blonde, Dirty Dancing, John Tucker Must Die Where can I view this? Amazon on demand

CBS Films

The Woman in Black HHIII

This Means War

Top notch CIA agents (Tom Hardy and Chris Pine) wage an epic war against each other when they discover they have been dating the same woman (Reese Witherspoon). Similar to: Mr. & Mrs. Smith, Three to Tango, Just Friends Where can I view this? In theaters Feb. 17

death of her son. The only thing that came to my mind every time I saw Radcliffe on the screen was Harry Potter. This film could be a nice epilogue to that series, if Harry Potter defeated Voldemort, graduated from Hogwarts, grabbed a portkey and transported himself back to Vic-

torian England to become a lawyer. Potter always seemed to be a pretty judicious fellow. Radcliffe was so self-conscious in his portrayal of Arthur Kipps that I could not think of anyone else other than Harry Potter. I felt for him in his desperate yearning to make us forget the character for whom he has been type-casted as. The film seemed as if it were a coming-of-age tale for Radcliffe himself. By putting him in very adult circumstances and Radcliffe baring chest hair at every available chance it was as if he were telling us, Look at me! I am a man now! A few times, when Radcliffe would give a look of consternation and scrunch his forehead, it looked like the lightning scar: something that not only cursed Harry Potter but perhaps also Daniel Radcliffes career.

E-mail comments to gpb009@latech.edu.

Seryn plays bluegrass for good cause

NATALIE MCELWEE Staff Reporter A crowd of people stood outside the Dixie Center for the Arts Saturday as they eagerly awaited the doors to open. Dixie opened its doors at 7 p.m. sharp and people flooded into the main auditorium to find seats for the Seryn concert. Tonight you came to a worship service, Scott Wright, director of the Wesley Foundation said. It just looks a little different. This group [Seryn] was able to captivate 13,000 people at a conference and now theyre here. The Wesley Foundation is going on four mission trips to Nicaragua, Honduras, Haiti and Cambodia this summer. The Seryn fundraiser is one of many to come, which include a dinner theatre, a 5K run and a golf tournament. Scott from the Wesley Foundation called us, told us about the fundraiser, and now were here, said Chris Simmelbeck, Seryn band member. The people here are nice and made us feel really welcome. Semmelbeck said he would definitely consider coming back to Ruston in the future. The thing about Ruston thats great is that its a nicesized town, he said. Youve got the university here to keep it fresh and funky but still have that old-town vibe. Seryn is composed of five young band members from Denton, Texas, whose music is described as folk-pop. They have been on four tours in the past four years and played 140 shows. The members of Seryn played songs from their album This is Where We Are, which received a Best Song award from The Dallas Observer in 2009. The band was opened by Soulful Syndicate, a beat poet group from Grambling. The five members of Seryn used their multitasking abilities

The Vow

After a tragic car accident places a woman (Rachel McAdams) in a coma and she wakes up with severe memory loss, her husband (Leo Tatum) must fight to win her heart again. Similar to: Titanic, Mommie Dearest Where can I view this? In theaters Feb. 10

Photo by Dacia Idom

Seryn performs at the Dixie during a fundraiser concert hosted by The Wesley Foundation. The bands set included a variety of instruments, ranging from accordion to the ukulele. as they played multiple instruments during each song, some members playing two instruments at a time. Matthew Ramsaur, concertgoer and mission trip participant, said he enjoyed the concert. The concert was amazing, he said. Ive never seen a more creative band in my life that

could switch up 20 different instruments during the same song and keep everyone entertained the whole time. Hailey Singletary, intern at the Wesley Foundation, said it is by coincidence that Seryn was able to perform at the concert. We saw Seryn at a confer-

> see SERYN page 8

Distractions
SUDOKUPUZZLE
Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 grid contains the digits 1 through 9. Difficulty Easy www.sudoku-puzzles.net
Go back | Print | Help

8 The T T ech alk February, 9 2012

LAST EDITIONS SOLUTION

WEEKLYHOROSCOPE
Aries March 21 April 19 Chances are good that youll be keeping yourself busy today, Aries. The energetic aspects that are occurring can really have you raring to take on chores that need to be done. Can you think of anything youd rather do? Well, OK, but once youve finished these things, there should be plenty of time to do something recreational, too. Make the most of this great day to get into both work and play. Taurus Apr 20 - May 20 Why not take some much deserved rest and relaxation today, Taurus? After all, even you need to jump out of the rat race once in a while. If there are some things you really need to care of, you can still make plans for leisure or recreation afterward. Spoil yourself with an afternoon nap or ordering out for dinner. Take a leisurely walk or a long bath. Take care of yourself by resting as well as accomplishing. Gemini May 21 - Jun 20 You might get an unexpected visit today, Gemini. And its quite likely that it will be someone who really needs some comfort and support. Whether you have a huge list of things you want to get done or you were planning on just taking it easy, dont turn your friend away. Chores and hobbies will wait patiently for you, but lending care and support to someone in need often wont. Open your door and your heart if the situation arises. Cancer Jun 21 - Jul 22 Today you might want to talk over any plans you have or would like to make with those you live with, Cancer. If you live alone, there isnt much chance that your plans will affect anyone, but for those of you cohabiting with others, take time to extend this courtesy. It might be that someone else in the house had some intentions that you werent aware of, or there may be someone in need of something from you. Talk things over and everything will work out just fine. Leo Jul 23 - Aug 22 If something is bothering you today, Leo, consider talking with your mother or an older person you feel comfortable with. No matter where we are in life, there remains a part of us that draws support and nurturing from someone with more experience. Draw some strength from this valuable resource by visiting or calling. Remember to express your gratitude for this supportive relationship. Virgo Aug 23 - Sep 22 Dont fall into the poor me trap today, Virgo. When things repeatedly dont go the way you want, or bad things happen to you, it can be very easy to fall into a victim mentality. Yet while we cant always control what happens around and to us, we always have the choice as to how were going to handle it. Grieving can be a critical element to he Libra Sep 23 - Oct 22 Try to make sure you get some quality time to yourself today, Libra. Your nature is one that thrives on intense thought, creativity, sexuality, and emotion. Without adequate time alone in a space thats comfortable for you, you may begin to feel worn out. Such things as irritability or withdrawal can be strong indicators that its high time you were alone with yourself. Make some plans for this today. Scorpio Oct 23 - Nov 21 Today may be a good day for you to spend some time creating, Scorpio. While you may love sports, you also have an innate artistic streak. The joy of creating something is immeasurable, and the process of producing a finished product can be very enjoyable and therapeutic. Crafts, baking, building, and gardening are all activities conducive to this. Take time to express yourself through your favorite hobbies today. Sagittarius Nov 22 - Dec 21

www.horoscopes.com.net
Make some plans to write a letter, send a greeting card, or put together a package for someone far away today, Sagittarius. This can be a lot of fun to do, especially if the person on the receiving end isnt expecting anything from you. Pictures, crafts, cookies, candies, or books can make a wonderful package to send to someone special. Even a simple greeting card can really brighten someones day. Have some fun. Capricorn Dec 22 - Jan 19 Its a good day for you to put some of those creative ideas to work, Capricorn. Pull out your favorite craft supplies and have some fun exploring color and design. If you have children, consider including them in the activities. It may amaze you to listen to the incredible ideas and innovative thoughts your own kids have that youve never thought of. If you dont have an idea box where old bottles, nuts and bolts, odd buttons, ribbons, and scraps of material can collect for times like this, start one today! Aquarius Jan 20 - Feb 18 Aquarius, put some music on to get yourself going today, especially if you feel a little lonely. Music often has as strong an effect as conversation. This is because it provides an avenue for you to communicate with a deeper part of yourself. Your sensitive nature can find comfort and hope through harmonies and rhythms like nothing else. Pull out your favorites and listen, sing along, or even dance. Enjoy your day to the fullest! Pisces Feb 19 - Mar 20 Its a good day to pull out that shopping list, Pisces. Your ability to be thrifty and efficient will be strengthened at this time, so why not take advantage of it? Take a few minutes to look through recent flyers or gather coupons before heading out. And if you find yourself feeling tempted to spend your savings on something lavish, get back to your list! Keep your budget in the forefront of your mind and head straight to the checkout when youre done.

BestCrosswords.com - Puzzle #1 for July 14, 2011 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Across Across 1. Join the cast of 14 15 16 1- Join the cast 6. Drinks slowly of; 6- Drinks 10. Great 10- Great quantity; 14slowly; quantity 17 18 19 14. Employagain; 15- Manitoba Employ again 15. Manitoba native with a VCR; native; 16- Record 20 21 22 23 16. Record with a VCR 17- Hand woven wall hanging; 17. Hand woven19- "___ quam 18- Crones; wall hanging 24 25 18. Crones videri" (North Carolina's motto); 19. ___ quam videri 22- Hockey 20- Longstanding; 26 27 28 29 (North Carolinas motto) player, e.g.; 24- Bread spread; 20. Longstanding cats; 26- More 25- Like some 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 22. Hockey player, e.g. massive; 29- Looking down 24. Bread spread from; 30- Dedicated to the ___ 37 38 39 40 25. Like 31- Stoutness; 37- Bridget Love; some cats 26. More massive 39- Hither's 41 42 43 44 Fonda, to Jane; 29. Looking40- Sleep disorder; 41partner; down from 30. Dedicated to Sea eagles; 4545 46 47 Unlucky; 44- the ___ Love 31. StoutnessConcurs; 48Injure; 4648 49 50 51 52 37. Bridget Fonda, to Jane Abdomen; 52- Bric-a-___; 5339. Hithers partner Occupant; 54- Extraordinary; 5853 54 55 56 57 40. Sleep disorder Rapper born Mine finds; 5941. Unlucky Tracy Marrow; 61- Sphere; 62- I 58 59 60 61 44. Sea ___!; 63- Writer Sarah ___ smell eagles 45. Injure64- Clear; 65- Makes Jewett; 63 64 46. ConcursKernels; 67- Gives off; 62 lace; 6648. Abdomen 65 66 67 52. Bric-a-___ Down 53. Occupant 2- Atlantic 1- Asian sea; 54. Extraordinary mackerel; 3- Rotate; 4- Introductory studies; 5- Snuggle; 6- Jerk; 7- Dies ___; 8- Fastener; 921. Able was 57. Cincinnati club 58. Mine finds 10- Water vapor; 11- Brahmin,___... 12- Church areas; 13- Caterpillar rival; 21Official sitting; 23. Tenth lettere.g.; Greek alphabet of the 60. French vineyard 59. Rapper born Tracy23- Tenth letter of the Greek alphabet; 25- Rock; 26- Actress Anderson; 27Able was ___...; Marrow 25. Rock 61. Sphere Film spool; 29- Cancel; 32- Incense gum; 33- Covering flap on a seed vessel; 34- As Indigo; 2826. Actress Anderson 62. I35- Branta sandvicensis; 36- Soviet news service; 38- Actor Hawke; 42- Public sale; 43to; smell ___! 27. Indigo 63. Writer Sarah ___ Jewett Mend with rows of stitches; 47- FlockFilm geese; 48- Brown ermine; 49- Earth; 50- ___ a time; 5128. of spool 64. Clear sails; 52- Seizes with teeth; 54- Dispatched; 55- Centers of activity; 56- Slightly; 57Poles for 29. Cancel 65. Makes lace Cincinnati club; 60- French vineyard; Incense gum 32. 66. Kernels 33. Covering flap on a seed vessel 67. Gives off 34. As to LAST EDITIONS SOLUTION 35. Branta sandvicensis BestCrosswords.com - Puzzle #1 for July 13, 2011 Down N O A H E R A T T O R A 36. Soviet news service Across 1. Asian sea 1- Ark builder; 5- Part of Q.E.D.; E M E R Y A L O T 9- When said three times, a 1970 A R L O 38. Actor Hawke war movie; 13- He sang about 2. Atlantic mackerel S A I L T I E U P V A S T Alice; 14- Abrasive mineral; 1542. Public sale Bunches; 16- Travel on water; 3. Rotate Y B I E 17- Mooring place; 1843. Mend with rows of stitches of JewsImmense; A L I D A H B F A F A R V E N 19- Immigration to R I 4. Introductory studies Israel; 21- Law enforcement 47. Flock of geese agency; 22- Level; 23- Bit; 25- A A D V A N C E R Y A N K E E 5. Snuggle long way off; 27- One who says 48. Brown ermine "Mother, may I?"; 31- Federal B U O Y A S A P R A R E R 6. Jerk soldier in the Civil War; 35Y E W L O I R E I R A 49. Earth Anchored float; 36- Quickly, quickly; 38- Less common; 397. Dies ___ S T E L E T S O S E L I S Evergreen tree; 40- France's 50. ___ a time longest river; 42- 401(k) 8. Fastener S O L E L Y E X P E L L E E alternative; 43- Inscribed pillar; 51. Poles for sails 46- General ___ chicken; 479. Official sitting S R E 52. Seizes with teeth Some Ivy Leaguers; 48- has B A S A D E T L Y O N C A G E Exclusively; 50- One who K S U 10. Water vapor been cast out; 52- Citrus coolers; 54. Dispatched 54- Long ago; 55- Expose A N T A T O O L S T I E S 11. Brahmin, e.g. 55. Centers of activity oneself to warmth; 58- Letters on S N A G E R N I E E R M A a Cardinal's cap; 60- Free from 12. Church areas confinement; 64- Organization to promote theater; 65T A R E R E E D D E S I 56. Slightly Implements; 67- Connections; 13. Caterpillar rival 68- Glitch; 69- Bert's buddy; 70- Humorist Bombeck; 71- Shipping deduction; 72- Hollow grass;
Go back | Print | Help
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 16 19 14 17 15 18 22 20 21 23 24 25 26 27 35 39 43 48 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 36 40 37 38 41 42 44 45 46 47 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 64 68 71 56 57 58 65 69 72 59 60 61 62 63 66 67 70 73

CROSSWORDPUZZLE

www.sudoku-puzzles.net

73- He loved Lucy;

WEEKLYWEATHER
TODAY
HIGH 56 LOW 37

www.accuweather.com
SATURDAY
HIGH 53 LOW 28 SUNDAY HIGH 50 LOW 27

DAILY U

Down 1- American space agency; 2- Like some history; 3- Et ___; 4- Religious festival; 5- U.K. record label; 6- Ridge of rock; 7- Island off Venezuela; 8- Exemplify; 9- Restaurant in Greece; 10Norwegian king; 11- Ascended, flower; 12- Env. notation; 14- In the right; 20- Prince Valiant's son; 24- Stupefy with drink; 26- Swiss river; 27- Vast chasm; 28- Because of; 29- Speech sound; 30- Bluffer's ploy; 32- Shrimplike crustaceans; 33- Causing goose bumps; 34- Clear the board; 37- Agent; 41- Marry; 44- Act of leaking; 45- Antiquity, old-style; 47- Voted into a seat; 49- Past prefix; 51- Directional ending; 53- Grocery, e.g.; 55- Jute or ramie; 56- Ballerina Pavlova; 57Celestial body; 59- Single; 61- Yorkshire river; 62- Precious stones; 63- Actor Morales; 66Cover;

Email feedback to dwyer@latech.edu

FRIDAY
HIGH 58 LOW 37

MONDAY HIGH 55 LOW 42

TUESDAY HIGH 68 LOW 52

WEDNESDAY HIGH 66 LOW 39

>

SGA from pg. 1

sometimes seen as undesirable because they have to choose people for offices instead of having them elected by the student body I think its just the fact that we have to appoint so many people, she said. Its not our choice to appoint people. We would love for people to run for these spots, but they are not. People dont really understand what we do and the limitations that we have. They dont understand the abilities that we have. Some students like Jalen Brown, a freshman aviation management major, said they do not know a lot about what SGA does on campus. I think it definitely needs more promoting at student activities, he said. I dont know of anything they have hosted this year. Brown said he would prob-

ably run for office if he knew more about SGA and how it contributes to the student body. East said the SGA has plans to make the student body aware of their purpose and the things they do around campus. East said she would like to plan a Party in the SGA day like other schools have done in the past. This day would be dedicated to talking to people in the quad and getting their opinions about what they would like SGA to do. Brown said he likes the golf cart service at night that SGA provides, but he would also like to see some more things out of SGA. I think they should have more student activities in the quad and maybe pass out monthly flyers to see how we could get involved, he said. East said before the new items they hope to get in the next month, they do not really have anything to promote the SGA. She said she wants
We have to break up our work because there are not enough rooms with the machines for everyone to do their work at the same time, she said. It would be more convenient if there were more rooms with the equipment we need. Nelson said the money raised so far has come primarily from alumni support. He said the COES is hoping to gain more support from companies that have hired Tech graduates. Nelson said the location of the new building has been chosen and there are currently preliminary plans and architec-

SGA members to speak at other organizations meetings to increase awareness and the number of candidates in elections. I know personally this year I want a big surge to hit other organizations on campus, she said. Send speakers to Union Board, fraternities, sororities and to PRISM meetings. Send people all around to try to tell people we have elections, and if you want a change, then be the change. East said she hopes the new measures taken will encourage people to become involved in this next election and to participate in SGA activities. I hope people dont see this and think that we are spending our money the wrong way because I think that this could be spun in a negative light, she said. Its stuff that we really do need if we want SGA to grow.

>

SERYN from pg. 7

ence during fall quarter and really liked them, she said. One of our interns had connections with one of the band members through a mutual friend and that is how the idea came about to get them to play for the fundraiser. Singletary said she believes it would be a positive move if Ruston held more events like

the Seryn concert. I feel like it would really benefit the community to promote more musicians, she said. I think it would help the campus to have more of a music scene. Singletary is leading a trip to Haiti this summer and said she hopes to accomplish as much as possible during the time the team is there. Were going to be sharing the gospel, trying to bless peo-

ple in whatever way we can, she said. Singletary said she is excited for the students to experience life in a different culture. I know that Haiti is going to offer the students a lot of perspective and a worldview that will make them realize the world is bigger than the bubble in which they live.

Email comments to nkm003@latech.edu.

Skip Russell s

Email comments to mmb041@latech.edu.

tural schematics, but the interior of the building is not fully designed. He said the new building will be located between Bogard Hall and Tech Pointe, with the entrance facing north toward the new business building. Were pretty much set on the exterior, which will be like the style of Bogard, he said. Nelson said construction will take about one year once all the money is raised and a final design is made.

>

COES from pg. 1

son said, but the college wants a building designed with rooms specifically for group work. April Guttirrez, a sophomore chemical engineering major, said group projects are especially hard when male and female engineering students need to work together because of dorm visitation rules buildings locked at night. She also said the lack of classrooms equipped with the necessary machinery for their projects creates problems.

Campus Washateria
Just East of Tech Campus
Next to University Apartments behind Wesley Foundation

Email comments to lrp014@latech.edu.

Open 24 hours / 7 days a week Cleanest in town New machines Air Conditioned
Alabama Campus Washateria Louisiana Ave. Homer St. Texas

ADVERTISE WITH THE TECH TALK TODAY!

Gain exposure to a campus of over 11,000 students, faculty and staff. What are you waiting for? Call 318.257.4949 to speak to an ad representative. Or email us at techtalkads@latech.edu.

Wesley

Wyly Tower

Keeny Hall

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK SERVING TECH STUDENTS SINCE 1965 YOUR PARENTS WASHED WITH US

Sports Talk

February 9, 2012 The T T ech alk 9

GONE SOON
TOO
Memorial service, fund set for deceased Tech running back
>

FROM THE SPORTS DESK

with REINA KEMPT

DUPLESSIS from pg. 1

loved to be around his teammates, and people enjoyed being around him. He had a very outgoing personality and had a unique way of dealing with people that was kind of fun. Dykes recalled last week during a press conference announcing his passing, seeing Duplessis for the last time Wednesday afternoon in the training room with a giant smile on his face enjoying life to the fullest. While Duplessis drive and passion for football has been well-documented over the last few days, his vigor for life is what set him apart in the eyes of everyone who was impacted by his presence. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of everyone in the Tech family and beyond. Tyrone was a valuable part of this football family, Dykes said. This is a tragic, senseless loss, but he made a lasting impact on this team, university and everyone that knew him. A public service honoring Duplessis memory will be held at 5 p.m. Friday in the Thomas Assembly Center for students, teammates, fans and alumni wishing to pay their respects for the former

Bulldog. Buttons with Duplessis jersey number will also be available for fans to purchase at the public service Friday with proceeds going to the memorial fund set up in his honor. The university and athletics department, along with the family, asks that in lieu of flowers, gifts in memory of Tyrone may be made to the Tyrone Duplessis Memorial Fund at the Louisiana Tech University Foundation, Inc. This is a tax deductible gift and can be made payable to the Louisiana Tech University Foundation, Inc. (memo: the Tyrone Duplessis Memorial Fund) and mailed to P Box 1190, Ruston, LA .O. 71273-1190. Gifts to the fund may also be made online at www.latechalumni.org. For more information, or to make a gift by phone, please call Jennifer Riley at (318) 255-7950 or email jennifer@latechalumni.org.

Athletic facility fee: Is it worth it?

Email comments to act013@latech.edu.

Submitted photos

Above: A screenshot from the Bulldogs starting line-up video for the 2011 football season features Duplessis with his signature smile. Right: A tribute to Duplessis life was made in his honor in the window outside the library.

Lady Techster tennis making a racket in non-conference play

DEREK AMAYA Sports Reporter After winning two consecutive home matches, the Lady Techsters tennis team (2-1) will travel to Jackson, Miss., to compete against Jackson State Saturday. The Lady Techsters defeated in state rivals Grambling State 6-1 Jan. 24 and McNeese State 5-2 Jan. 29. Head coach Quinton Yray said he was excited the team won and said they have begun to create double teams that works and sees the players starting to progress since the beginning of the season. The matches went pretty much as expected, he said. We lost in the first match in singles, but we are in the process of working on strokes. Everything went according to plan though. Senior Elne Barnard remains undefeated (3-0) for the season in single matches and is on a two-match winning streak in doubles with senior Anna Zurek (2-1). She has a lot of talent and even more experience, Yray said. Even before she came to Tech, she gained tons of experience coming from South Africa. I have her and Anna together because I like them as a doubles team. Theyve done well last year. They went 8-6 with Fresno State who were ranked nationally in doubles. Junior Vivian ten Dolle also remains undefeated (3-0) in single matches and has lost one match in doubles (2-1). We have improved a lot, she said. It was a nice win against Grambling and McNeese. I have to improve my game a little though. I have to play more offensive than I do now. The Lady Techsters easily defeated Jackson St. 6-1 last year where Barnard and ten Dolle went undefeated in singles and doubles. Every team gets better each year and its harder to beat past teams, ten Dolle said. But we keep on fighting and hope that our team spirit improves with us cheering each other on the court. Coach Yray said it can be hard for the players communicate with each other being from different countries, but he thinks the team will come together and continue to win well into Western Athletic Conference play. We have been practicing like normal and have not changed anything from past years, he said. I think it should go pretty much routinely at Jackson State and are one step closer to trying to win the WAC. For updated results from this weeks match follow The Tech Talk Sports Twitter page www.twitter.com/techtalksports.

Track to test its skills in televised Tyson Invitational

REINA KEMPT Associate Sports Editor The men and womens track and field team are heading to Fayetteville, Ark., to test their skills among other elite athletes in the Tyson Invitational. This two-day event will take place Friday and Saturday. This season, Tech has proven itself to have a pretty spectacular track and field squad led by senior Chelsea Hayes and freshman Trey Hadnot. These two have broken records at the last meet to show themselves as elite athletes. Hadnot set a new school record for running the 200-meter dash at the Arkansas State Invitational in Jonesboro, and his time was 21.04 seconds. This currently ranks sixth in the nation. Hayes set a new school record for the long jump at the same meet, leaping 6.38 meters; this is the second longest jump in the nation this year. She also holds the fastest time in the Western Athletic Conference in four different distances. This invitational will be filled with athletes as good as Hayes and Hadnot as they will go against schools like Arkansas who has won 42 national championships and Northern Arkansas. Head coach Gary Stanley said he is aware of the steep competition they are going against. I think it will help Hayes and Hadnot rise to another level, Stanley said. There will be a lot more competition there for them to compete against. Stanley said he expects his players to be nervous but it will just make their experience more exciting. Stanley also looks for junior Micara Vassel to do well in the shot put as she was named on the 2011 all-WAC team in the event. He also mentioned junior Matt Wolfe as a runner that he looks to do well. Vassel has been doing a good job with the shot put, Stanley said. I would like to see her continue her success. Matt is another that I know is ready to run. We have a good squad this season. With the WAC Tournament right around the corner, Stanley said he looks at this invitational as a way to pick out his teams best events. Im looking to focus on the best events for each runner, Stanley said. I dont want to add more stress on runners like Hayes to run multiple events at this tourney. With his game plan in mind, the Track team and field team is looking to end this year with a bang. The Tyson Invitational will be broadcast on tape delay at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, on ESPN2 for fans wanting to tune into the action. For updated results on the meet, follow The Tech Talk Sports Twitter page at www.twitter.com/techtalksports.

here has been talk around Tech campus of a possible fee being added to students tuition in order to build a new state-ofthe-art athletic facility for nonstudent athletes to use. Well, its true. From a tuition-paying students standpoint, my answer is obvious: hell, no. I dont want to pay more money than I already am. The average student has a hard time paying for tuition and now, theyll have to spend more money. This proposal will go to the Louisiana Board of Regents and, if they approve it, it will then travel to Techs SGA spring election ballots for students to vote on. This fee will renew the current fee of $20, along with an extra $30 that will go toward the new athletic facility for a total of $50. The proposed athletic facility will have an auditorium, a place for formal banquets and meetings and will also feature a view of the JumboTron in Joe Aillet Stadium for students to enjoy. So, its not just for the athletes, its also for us students to be able to hold upscale functions on-campus. How many places does Tech already have for that? Most importantly, a lot of us seem to like it here at Tech. We tend to take up for it being one of the better universities in the state. We often like to compare ourselves with a certain university down south but we may need to spend a little extra to keep it up. However, there are still buildings and equipment around Tech that need some sprucing up before we decide to build new luxury facilities. From the computers in the current business labs, some of the rugged furniture around campus, to the ever-breaking printers in the library. How about we get new computers, printers and projector screens to help recruit students then focus on the view of the JumboTron from a new athletic facility? But on the other hand, this is the price to pay if we want our university to be seen as upscale on a social level. We can either stay quiet and be content with our university or we need to suck it up and do something that will help the university become bigger and better in the long run.

Reina is a junior journalism major from Baton Rouge who serves as associate sports editor. Email comments to rjk007@latech.edu.

UPCOMING ATHLETICS

BULLDOG BASKETBALL LADY TECHSTER BASKETBALL TRACK & FIELD

at Utah State - 2/9 8:05 p.m. at Idaho - 2/11 10:05 p.m.

vs. Utah State - 2/9 5 p.m. vs. Idaho - 2/11 6:30 p.m. Tyson Invitational - 2/10-11 Fayetteville, Ark. All Day

LADY TECHSTER SOFTBALL

LSU Tournament - 2/10-12 vs. Michigan-2/10 3:30 p.m. vs. Penn State-2/11 10 a.m. vs. Michigan-2/11 5:30 p.m. vs. LSU - 2/12 12:30 p.m.

Email comments to dja014@latech.edu.

Email comments to rjk007@latech.edu.

More Talk

10 The T T ech alk February 9, 2012

A tale of two...

DiCarlo and Teske cheer on the Lady Techsters during the Nevada game in the TAC.

A look at the transformation from ordinary Tech faculty into Superfans

Photos by Dacia Idom

ALWAYNE GREEN Staff Reporter For many Tech fans, watching the Lady Techsters is a way to unwind, cheer on friends and support their school. For Superfan Mike Dicarlo it is a way to connect two of the biggest parts of his life: his family and the Tech family. I started going to basketball games here when my daughter was about 10, DiCarlo said. She played basketball and wanted to go to the games so we started going. Although DiCarlo rarely goes to games with his daughter now, his passion for the Techsters is strong. The uniqueness of the ladies game has captivated DiCarlo, he has regularly held season tickets for more than a decade. I enjoy the womens game, DiCarlo said. The style of play is a lot more about positioning and passing, rather than pure athletic skills. Its more of a game below the rim as opposed to the mens, which is above the rim. The enjoyment DiCarlo mentions is obvious to those who attend the Techsters games, but perhaps not to all those who know DiCarlo from his job, dean of library sciences. When DiCarlos secretary, Charlotte Lee, first saw him at a game, she said her first emotion was shock. It may have been the game where they wore the colored wigs, Lee said. I was utterly shocked thinking, oh, my God. Thats my boss? Where am I? DiCarlos coworker and fellow Superfan, librarian Boris Teske, shared similar thoughts and said the two different personalities people see are exciting. The contrast is delicious, Teske said. The quiet librarian versus the fanatic. But it is strik-

ingly similar. Students appreciate the contrast the Superfans bring. Given the chance to describe it in one word, students said it was loud, crazy and real. Joseph Garbarino, a senior kinesiology major who cheers for Tech, said the one word he

Superfan Mike DiCarlo serves as the dean of library services in his time off from cheering on the Lady Techsters.

would use to describe DiCarlo is fanatical. They have a lot of spirit for the Lady Techsters, Garbarino said. That spirit can be seen at any and every home game the Techsters have. As a member of Techs cheerleading squad, Garbarino is at every game and said he has yet to see either Superfan absent. Ive been here for three years cheering, and I have seen them at every game, Garbarino said. Everyone knows them as the two crazy librarians shouting out. Senior nursing major Jasmin Young has developed a habit of focusing on the two crazy librarians almost as much as she watches the game. I like to sit close so I can see what exactly they are going to do, Young said. They add excitement for everyone. You get two shows. Like many who put on an entertaining show, Dicarlo and Teske were honored with Superfan plauques Dec. 11, 2011. Even though some may think they yell for penalties that arent there, Lady Techster Kiara Young, a senior sociology major, said she appreciates them for their support on and off the court. They are funny and encouraging, Young said. It means a lot because we know they are true fans. They are always there to support us, and they get after the referees pretty good when we need them to. DiCarlo said he has become a Superfan for a number of reasons, but mostly because it he wants to give back to the community and the Techsters. I cant play the game anymore, DiCarlo said. My contribution to their success is to be vocal for them.

JUSTIN FORT News Editor

If one were to walk into Techs Wyly Center of Learning at 5 p.m. Tuesday, you would see librarian Boris Teske dressed in a suit and tie sitting quietly at the information desk. Although Teske works more than 40 hours in the library each week, he has become Techs Superfan for the five hours of cheering he does every week in the Thomas Assembly Center. I get a little overexcited sometimes, Teske said. Little and sometimes are words that seem modest to anyone who has seen Teske cheering for the Lady Techsters. You can feel the passion he has for the game, said Christopher Taylor, a senior political science major. He knows the rules, and he loves the team. Teske started attending Lady Techsters games shortly after being hired in 2003, and averages less than one missed game per year. It took me a year or two to really get behind the team, Teske said. My first game just happened to be the triple overtime win over Iowa. Teskes love of basketball goes back 36 years and fully developed while he was getting his masters degree in history at the University of North Carolina, which has one of the most impressive college basketball resumes in the world. I saw [Michael] Jordan play, he said. It was truly amazing. Teske said every time he shows up to the Techsters games, he tries to illuminate the same excitement that the North Carolina Tar Heels evoke in him. At home I pace back and force, wearing a groove in the floor, he said. Maybe the rheto-

ric is a bit more interesting, he joked. Teske said he believes the basketball games should evoke strong passions in everyone at Tech, adding that the TAC should always be as full as it was Saturday, not just occasionally. The girls deserve more than an empty stadium, he said. I see no reason why we arent having pack the house games all the time. Since these pac-the-house type games have not become regular, Teske said he and the other

Superfan Boris Teske gets through his busy schedule at the library in order to have time to attend basketball games.

Superfan, dean of library sciences MikeDicarlo, try to provide as much enthusiasm. They kind of add a fire, said Barry James, a junior marketing major. Hes like a second coach. Freshman chemistry major Camella Cord agreed with James, and said she has never been to a game where the Superfans werent in their reserved seats cheering. I think they support the team better than anybody in the crowd, Cord said. They add a lot of emotion to the game. You can always tell if the call was bad or good just by looking at them. Teske said he believes one of the reasons players and fans have accepted him and DiCarlo so well is because of the way they cheer, using positive, encouraging language for the Techsters, rather than belittling the opponents. Its more about positiveness, Teske said. Its about cheering on the girls. Although Teske tries to keep his cheering appropriate, he admitted that he sometimes gets overexcited and pokes fun at referees or opposing players. Ill ask them rhetorical questions to keep them honest, Teske said. I try to time it right. Teskes ability to perfect his timing and balance humor, agitation and encouragement are what has made him as popular as he is. So popular, in fact, that he was presented a Superfan plaque Dec. 11, 2011. The most important part of that night, Teske said, is that the Techsters were victorious against Mississippi State. As long as the Tech family keeps embracing the Superfans like it has, Teske said he will be there. If they didnt approve, Id be more self-conscious, Teske said. The president likes passionate employees in all areas.