The Tech Talk 10.27.16

WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S

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VOLUME 91 • ISSUE 6

Scholarship established in memory of Gary Zumwalt MORGAN BERNARD Staff Reporter | mrb056@latech.edu The Gary Zumwalt Scholarship in Environmental Science and Evolution is a new scholarship at Louisiana Tech that was established in honor of the late Gary Zumwalt, a passionate geology professor at Tech.

Family and former colleagues of Zumwalt created this scholarship to honor him and to help students

who are interested in environmental sciences.

Zumwalt was a professor at Tech for more than 30 years and is remembered by many friends, colleagues and students. Colleagues of Zumwalt said what they remember most about him as a professor was his interest in his students.

Will Campbell, director of the School of Biological Sciences, said the idea behind the scholarship came from several members of

the biology department as well as family and friends of Zumwalt.

“I was pleased to see this idea come from the faculty because I think it’s a reflection of the regard that his colleagues have for him,” Campbell said. “We contacted his wife and other former geology professors who were his close colleagues, and together they formed the main idea of the scholarship.”

Campbell said the schol-

arship was formed with topics that Zumwalt enjoyed most in his teaching career.

“The scholarship is for students who have an interest in things like environmental science and evolution,” he said. “These were areas that Gary was really interested in and loved to share with his students.”

Jamie Newman, an assistant professor of biological sciences, was Zumwalt’s colleague and office neighbor. She said Zumwalt was

Louisiana Tech’s Howard Auditorium was filled with the sounds of applause as audience members cheered on their favorite contestants in the 61st annual Miss Tech pageant.

On Oct. 25, 10 women competed in categories including interview, onstage question, swimsuit and evening wear in hopes of winning the crown.

Anna Blake, a junior kinesiology major, was crowned Miss Tech 2017, and said she is thrilled to represent a university that means so much to her.

“This is just an absolute honor,” she said. “It’s always been a dream of mine and it feels great to be able to represent the best university in Louisiana.”

Blake said she is eager to begin her year as Miss

Tech and most looks forward to competing in the Miss Louisiana pageant next summer.

“Being able to represent Tech in the Miss Louisiana pageant in June is going to be such an incredible experience, and I just can’t wait,” she said.

“I’m so honored and so blessed, and I’m just so excited for the year and for what’s going to happen.”

In addition to being crowned Miss Tech, Blake also received awards for the highest score in the pageant’s talent and swimsuit competitions.

Austin Snider, one of the Union Board’s student directors, said he believes the tradition of Miss Tech is important because it gives the student body a positive influence and student representative on campus.

“I feel like Miss Louisiana Tech is someone that not only incoming freshmen but also current

>> see ZUMWALT page 6

ZUMWALT

Ruston to revive Heard building

Anna Blake crowned Miss Tech 2017 STARLA GATSON Staff Reporter | sjg021@latech.edu

well-respected and popular among his students.

“Every day there would be students lined up outside of his office,” Newman said.

“Students really enjoyed him and his classes. There seemed to be a real appreciation for him and what he did.”

She said Zumwalt did a lot to benefit his students inside and outside of the classroom.

KACIE KAUFMAN Staff Reporter | kjk019@latech.edu

Photo by Colin Fontenot

Jim King (left) and Miss Tech 2016 Rachel Vizza (right) crown Anna Blake (middle) Miss Louisiana Tech 2017. students can look up to like a role model here on campus,” Snider said. “I also think it’s really important to have someone who kind of bridges the gap between administration and our student body.”

Snider said he and the Union Board spent months of diligent planning to make the event the best it could be.

“I started last May planning this,” he said.

“Our organization was

really helpful in putting in a lot of hours to make sure it all came together smoothly like it did.”

Guests at the event also included Miss Louisiana 2016 Justine Ker and several of the pageant’s previous winners, including the pageant’s first winner, Miss Louisiana Tech 1956 Lou Strange Wilder, and Miss Louisiana Tech 2016 Rachel Vizza.

>> see BLAKE page 6

From destined for demolition to venue for the Ruston Fashion Week finale party, the Heard Building underwent a number of changes lately — and more are planned.

The building, located along the railroad tracks at 94 S. Vienna Street, had been vacant for years and contained only one room surrounded by a set of exterior brick walls.

Recently, Ruston created plans to divide and revitalize the space.

Haley Perot, assistant to Ruston’s mayor, Main Street director and community coordinator, said the city of Ruston has a number of plans to improve the downtown building following its use in Ruston Fashion Week.

“The plans for the Ruston fashion finale party, to have it there, was to highlight a building most people did not give a second glance to,” she said.

Perot said although the party for fashion week was a onetime event, it helped to raise awareness about the building and gave a preview of its potential.

“Long-term, we wanted something different that Ruston doesn’t already have,” she said. “We wanted to bring industrial meets modern and utilize the space the best way we could think of.”

Perot said the plans for the building include a food court that would bring many options to one location, and a rooftop deck that could be used for anything from yoga classes to birthday parties. She said she hopes the versatility of the space would be appealing to the entire city, including Tech.

“I hope that the Heard Building is a connecting link for Tech and downtown,” she said. “I think as a former student, downtown Ruston is not always the most appealing to Tech students, but we have come a long way, and we are continuing to grow. We’re trying to get more events that the whole city can enjoy.”

Courtney Phillips, a senior fashion merchandising and retail studies major, said she believes the Heard Building enhanced the party for the end of Ruston Fashion Week.

“While it was not a super fancy place, the rustic feel the building had helped set the atmosphere for the finale party,” she said. “It was neat to see the building being used after it had sat vacant for so long.”

Phillips said she thinks the space would be appealing to both students and citizens.

>> see HEARD page 6

NEWS

2 • The Tech Talk • October 27, 2016

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Dunk-A-Delta raises funds for flood relief STARLA GASTON Staff Reporter | sjg021@latech.edu

Photo by Brian Blakely

Randi Roberts, a sophomore architecture major, sits on the board just before a ball hits the target during the Dunk-A-Delta fundraiser for Louisiana flood relief.

Louisiana Tech’s chapters of Delta Chi and Tri-Delta came together to support a common cause during the first Dunk-ADelta event.

For one dollar, Tech students were given the opportunity to soak members of Delta Chi or Tri-Delta in a dunk booth. All proceeds from the event, which was held Oct. 19, went to flood relief efforts in south Louisiana.

Justin Western, a senior computer science major, said the idea for Dunk-A-Delta came from Delta Chi’s desire to reach out to flood victims as well as welcome Tech’s newest Panhellenic sorority to the school.

“We knew we wanted to do something with Tri-Delta to get them involved since they’re a new sorority on campus,” he said.

“And we decided that with all the flooding that’s happened down south recently that we would raise awareness and get some help for those people.”

Western said he believed Tech students were attracted to the event because of the low cost and fun atmosphere.

“I feel like people are really interested in donating,” he said. “Plus it’s really cheap; it’s only a dollar, so it doesn’t cost a lot to help out. I think it’s been really positive.

We’ve had a good turnout, and I’m really excited about it.”

Brittney Clark, a sophomore supply chain management major, said she be-

lieved the response to the fundraiser was so positive because of Tech students’ willingness to care for and help one another.

“Tech isn’t just a university,” she said.

“It’s like a family and a support system for every student. I think that if one student knows somebody that has been affected, they’re more likely to come out and help.”

Western said though no definite fundraising goal was set, both organizations were determined to gain as much support as possible for the flood victims.

“Whatever we get is going straight to them,” he said. “Even if we only made five bucks, being out here is totally worth it.”

By the end of the event, $290 had been raised.

Johnna Hartzog, a senior graphic design major, said she personally appreciated the support from the Tech community because she was directly affected by the flooding.

“It means a lot to me because I’m from down South,” she said. “It’s definitely hitting home for me because I lost a lot during the flooding.”

Hartzog said getting students involved in flood relief efforts was especially important because it gave them a chance to support the state they live in and its residents.

“It’s good to get the students involved with the community in Louisiana,” she said. “I know a lot of my friends lost a lot in the flood. When someone donates money or helps them out, it makes them feel better. It makes them feel loved, and that’s why it’s so important.”

Tech students get AAUW hosts debate bingo night their just desserts DILLON NELSON Staff Reporter | djn005@latech.edu

AMBER HARRINGTON Staff Reporter | anh038@latech.edu

They don’t realize all the fun they can have with each other.”

Rebecca Kirkpatrick, a sophomore child This week, Louisiana Tech students development major, said she felt the event were given the opportunity to sample a va- was equally beneficial for those who were from the U.S., as it was an opportunity for riety of cultural confections.

On Oct. 24, Tech’s International Student some students to experience cultures difAssociation hosted its annual Internation- ferent from their own.

“Things like this are so important beal Dessert Night, a dessert social where sweets from across the globe are made and cause as Americans, we can be so narrowminded,” Kirkpatrick said. “We forget there shared with the Tech community.

This year, students from more than 12 are other cultures out there, and I genuinely hope events like this will continue.” countries participated, includOne of the event’s coordiing Columbia, Saudi Arabia, nators, Christiane Olinga, said Jordan and others. Each counalthough she is proud of the try competed for a first place social’s outcome, she is now prize of $75. Saudi Arabia uleven more anxious for the ortimately took home the grand ganization’s next important prize and the title of “Best Desevent, the International Scholsert.” arship Dinner, which will be Yazeed AlMahdi, the presiheld the last week of January. dent of the International Stu“We want the International dent Association and a junior and American students to minengineering major at Tech, said gle together now so when the the event signified the kickoff International Dinner comes of the year. around, which is one of the “Every fall quarter the ISO ALMAHDI biggest events for us, it will be hosts one major event to anenjoyable for everyone,” she nounce our upcoming activisaid. “It’s really about apprecities, our new board members ating each other’s culture.” and a lot of other important The dinner ultimately serves as a fundinformation,” AlMahdi said. “We try to get raiser for international students. The funds everyone we can involved.”

AlMahdi said the event not only pro- collected are put toward several scholarmotes the growth of the organization, but ships which are awarded based on acaalso encourages current international stu- demic performance, financial need and indents to share their culture with their fel- volvement in ISO events.

“I encourage people to go to these low Bulldogs.

“The night was about more than just events because firstly, we have delicious having fun,” he said. “It was meant to im- food,” AlMahdi said. “But most importantpact everyone involved. A lot of the inter- ly, it’s for a good cause, and it’s always an national students here tend to just exist. enjoyable time.”

Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton provided entertainment for Louisiana Tech's chapter of The American Association of University Women as it gathered in the Foreign Student's Office Oct. 20 for a game of debate bingo.

Squares for subjects like “women” and “campaign finance” lined the boards. Students racked up spaces quickly and all of the prizes were claimed by the end of the debate, but members stayed to share their thoughts on the organization’s goals and the debate performances of the candidates afterward.

Nick Smith, a senior political science major, said it was the surreal nature of this campaign season which lends itself to party games like bingo and politically minded organizations.

“Particularly for these debates, I think the absurdity of some of the rhetoric is very befitting of a game,” Smith said.

“From an organizational standpoint, it gives us an opportunity to build community among our members.”

Smith said he thought the moderator, Fox News's Chris Wallace, conducted the debates decently, keeping the debate going so it was possible to play several games of bingo. He said the idea of what a moderator does during a debate should certainly be reimagined.

“We need to reform the system because Trump was blatantly lying at times,” Smith said. “I'm not saying Hillary didn't stretch the truth at times as well, but we need to have more prevalent factchecking and have something running at the bottom of the screen to catch either candidate.”

Hannah Robertson, AAUW vice president and a junior biology major, said playing bingo was her idea, and it is was

meant to encourage students to become more politically minded.

“Before and throughout the debate members of Tech’s chapter of AAUW made a large presence on social media outlets, letting the candidates know that we wanted to hear them speak about issues impacting the lives of women and students,” Robertson said.

She said she enjoyed how equal pay and abortion rights were brought up because these issues are often foggy for some people who do not really delve much into politics.

“A lot of people question who would advocate for late-term abortions, so I think Clinton did a good job of telling how there are people's lives at stake in these decisions,” Robertson said.

She said the organization was able to reach people across the nation and let them know they have a voice should they choose to use it.

“A well-loved phrase in AAUW is that it really is as simple as ‘when women vote,’ they change the conversation,” Robertson said..

Will Phillips, a junior economics major, said he is a supporter of Hillary Clinton but understands how Trump has gotten as far as he has.

“I don't want to call him but not a moron,” Phillips said. “He just seems like a celebrity who just wandered into the presidency and gone about picking up popularity and staying on this surreal, realityshow of a presidential race.”

Phillips said he thinks Trump’s true talent failed to shine through during this debate, as it failed to do in the previous two.

“It really feels like he's just winging it during the debates, and even though Trump could throw her off here and there, Clinton was taking notes like you're supposed to and seemed more prepared,” Phillips said.

UPCOMING EVENTS FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

• Lady Techster volleyball vs. UTEP, 7 p.m. @ Thomas Assembly Center

•Bulldog football vs. Rice, 6 p.m. @ Joe Aillet Stadium

• Lady Techster volleyball vs. UTSA, 1 p.m. @ Thomas Assembly Center

• Negotiating Job Offers, 2 p.m. @ Keeny Hall

•Tartuffe, 7:30 p.m., @ Howard Auditorium

•Padded Weapon Fights, 4 p.m. @ Aswell Hall

•Bulldog men’s basketball vs.

Southern Arkansas, 6:30 p.m. @ Thomas Assembly Center

•Tartuffe, 7:30 p.m., @ Howard Auditorium

•Freshman Fiesta, 7 p.m., @ The Quad

•Movie in the Quad, 8 p.m., @ The Quad

•Tartuffe, 7:30 p.m., @ Howard Auditorium

NEWS

www.thetechtalk.org

October 27, 2016 • The Tech Talk • 3

Tech students walk to end Alzheimer’s MORGAN BERNARD Staff Reporter | mrb056@latech.edu

who have loved ones affected by the brain disease.

“We want to provide help and The Louisiana Boardwalk in support to families battling with Shreveport was filled with hun- Alzheimer’s,” Hayes said. “We are dreds of blue, purple, yellow and a national organization, and we orange flowers the morning of have 600 of these events every Oct. 22. Each color represented year as a way to spread awarea different way a person can be ness.”

Hayes said they had their largconnected to Alzheimer’s. These flowers were just a small part of est attendance this year, and she hopes for even more people to the Walk to End Alzheimer’s.

The walk, hosted by the Al- come for future events.

Many participants of zheimer’s Association, the walk said they enwas a fundraiser for joyed it and even shared the association and “We want to their personal stories as an event for spreading provide help to why the cause is imawareness about Alportant to them. Amy zheimer’s. Sigma Kap- and support Bullock, a participant in pa sisters from Louisi- to families the walk, said her famana Tech and several battling with ily came to the event other local organizabecause they wanted to tions participated in Alzheimer’s.” show support for famithe walk. lies like their own.

Debby Hayes, as- DEBBY HAYES “We came here tosistant director of the assistant director, Alzheim- day for my grandmother, Louisiana chapter of Louisiana er’s Association ‘Memaw,’ Selina Nesom, the Alzheimer’s Assowho died of Alzheimciation, was a speaker at the walk. She said the associa- er’s,” Bullock said. “We are part tion started these events not only of a local group who donates to to raise money, but also as a way the Alzheimer’s Association and we’ve been coming for the past to educate people.

“Obviously, our main mission five years to this walk.”

Bullock said she and her famis to end Alzheimer’s,” Hayes said.

“But in addition to that, we want ily always enjoy the event and they to promote brain health, so we can love what it stands for.

“My sister and I were caregivthen try to prevent brain diseases ers for our grandmother when such as Alzheimer’s.”

She said the Alzheimer’s As- we were only 30 years old and sociation is a resource for families that was an overwhelming experi-

Photo by Jonathan Shaul

At the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, participants were issued flowers, the color of which depended on how Alzheimer’s has affected the individual. ence,” she said. “We understand why the awareness is so important, and that is why we come.

Families should know about the services available to them when dealing with Alzheimer’s.”

Other participants of the walk

came to support the cause even though they had no experiences dealing with Alzheimer’s. Hannah Nichols, a sophomore biomedical engineering major and member of Sigma Kappa, said she enjoyed the walk.

“I think it was a great day for it, and the walk was fun with my friends,” Nichols said. “I really liked the photo booth and free snacks.

It’s a cool way to show support for people and their families who are dealing with Alzheimer’s.”

Lincoln Parish Museum hosts ‘Fall Chautauqua’ event series ISABELA PALMIERI Staff Reporter | ipa001@latech.edu Mattie Williams was referred to by many as the “Mother of Louisiana Chautauqua.” A veteran school teacher, Williams started the drive for public libraries in Louisiana and is one of the reasons Ruston has a rich Chautauqua history. Her push for education encouraged the Louisiana Education Association to adopt a resolution for a Louisiana summer Chautauqua.

In commemoration of the Lincoln Parish Chautauqua history, the Lincoln Parish Museum is hosting a string of events for the 2016 Fall Chautauqua in the month of October.

“I felt like somebody needed to get the Chautauqua program back in Ruston because a lot of towns in the United States still have active Chau-

tauquas,” said Margaret Anne Emory, director of the Lincoln Parish Museum. “It’s our heritage. It would be so wonderful for everyone to realize we had this cultural experience going on when communities around us were just barely making it.”

The Louisiana Chautauqua was based on the New York summer training program for Sunday-school teachers. The Sunday-school program provided teachers with education, exercise and community singing in an open-air pavilion.

“Healthy fun, wholesome recreation, religious reverence, good taste and honest inquiry were qualities the pubic associated with the word Chautauqua, and the hundreds of self-styled chautauquas that were established benefited from this association,” wrote historian Patricia Lewis Strickland in the North Louisiana Historical Association Jour-

nal.

In September of 1890, the Louisiana Chautauqua Society was formed, but it was not until 1893 that the Chautauqua became a state-wide venture.

“The Louisiana Chautauqua as a meeting site encouraged the exchange and development of ideas,” Strickland wrote. “It was a center where movements began, broadened and branched outward.

Eventually other agencies became involved in the work that once was a vital part of the Chautauqua program.”

The start of the Chautauqua program caused a ripple effect, advancing education throughout the state and bringing forth the institution that is now Louisiana Tech.

“The Chautauqua was not only a place where established groups could express their views, but it was

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also the scene where shared ideas evolved into new organizations,” Strickland wrote.

The Chautauqua was not only a place of learning, but a place of personal growth.

“To claim that the Chautauqua was strictly an educational institution is a superficial assumption,” Strickland wrote. “It provided good entertainment and served as a sounding board for public opinion, which in turn inspired and nourished individual thinking. Not the least of its attributes was its ability to unite a community such as Ruston to take action and to get involved, and in turn Louisiana was its chief beneficiary.”

Jo Autrey, in the forward of his book “Lincoln Parish History,” said his book emphasizes elements that make Lincoln Parish renown in North Louisiana.

“It would be so wonderful for everyone to realize we had this cultural experience going on.”

MARGARET ANNE EMORY Director of Lincoln Parish Museum

www.thetechtalk.org

4 • The Tech Talk • October 27, 2016

The

TechTalk

FROM THE EDITOR

Amendment No. 2

MANAGEMENT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Rachel Maxwell

MANAGING EDITOR Caleb Daniel

FEATURES EDITOR Payton Potter

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Payton Potter

SPORTS EDITOR

Matthew Valcho

PHOTO EDITOR

Brian Blakely

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Colin Fontenot Jonathan Shaul Ashley Kober Danny Do

ADVISERS

T. Scott Boatright Dr. Judith Roberts

ADVERTISING ADVISER Michael LeBlanc

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

W

ith early voting having begun Tuesday, some Louisiana voters have cast their ballots for the next president of the United States. However, that is not all that is on the ballot for Louisianans.

Along with the presidential vote, this ballot includes picks for Vitter’s seat in the Senate, representatives in all six districts, Supreme court seats in two districts and six constitutional amendments.

While all of these items are important to the future of our state, one amendment on the ballot is of particular interest to college students.

Amendment No. 2 proposes deregulation of university tuition

prices. This would remove the need for legislative approval to increase tuition and mandatory fees for public institutions.

In Louisiana’s current budget crisis, it is no secret that higher education is facing serious cuts.

This amendment would give universities the freedom to raise prices to accommodate for those cuts.

What will this mean for college students? We can look to Texas for clues. The lone star state passed a similar amendment in 2003. Since the increase in tuition autonomy, students have seen major increases in costs.

In a traditional free market, deregulation may result in institutions having to lower costs to compete with one another. While originally presented as a way to increase competition, the unyield-

ing demand for postsecondary education and the unending supply of student loans made the bill ineffective in this area. Because many universities turn away swaths of applicants every year, they do not fear hurting enrollment by increasing prices.

While this might seem like a good reason to vote against amendment No. 2, students should remember that a “no” vote does not come without a cost.

Universities have to get the money to operate from somewhere. If it isn’t coming from the state, and the institutions are not allowed to raise tuition and fees, the quality of university operations will inevitably go down.

Rachel Maxwell is a junior journalism major from Benton who serves as editor-in-chief for The Tech Talk.

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

CALEB DANEIL Managing Editor | csd020@latech.edu

O

ccasionally in everyone’s life, something so momentous will happen that it seems the world must surely pause in acknowledgment.

Saturday night was one of those moments in my life and the lives of countless others across the country.

For the first time in 71 years, the Chicago Cubs advanced to the Major League Baseball World Series. Wow, just writing that sentence gave me chills.

The Cubs, who for a long time have been affectionately and accurately known as the “Lovable Losers,” have not won the World Series since 1908 and have not played in one since 1945. It’s truly hard to grasp that no one alive today can remember the Cubs winning it all.

I have been a Cubs fan since I could understand the concept of baseball, and I still feel just a little unworthy to write about what a Cubs World Series means to me.

There are fans who have been waiting for this for thrice as long as I’ve been alive, or even longer.

Still, I have seen my fair share of Cubs misfortune. I suffered through

the Steve Bartman incident, several Mark Prior injuries, and the abysmal 101-loss 2012 season. I suffered such loss as a Cubs fan that I had to cheer for the Packers and Spurs just to even it out.

Therefore, when I say that my world was shaken after the final out Saturday night, I hope I have earned the right to be believed.

After bringing on Theo Epstein, the wizard who broke the Red Sox curse at only 28 years of age, as the President of Baseball Operations in 2011, the Cubs immediately plummeted to some of their worst seasons in history. However, that’s sometimes how it’s supposed to go in baseball: exchanging present decency for future greatness.

“That’s okay,” we said. “We’re Cubs fans. We know how to wait.”

We waited: through 91 losses, then 101, 96 and 89. We held onto our century-long hope that maybe someday billy goats and curses won’t matter, maybe some day nothing will be able to stop us.

Last year seemed like the one.

We had budding young talent and a Cy Young pitcher who couldn’t be stopped. We even eliminated the hated Cardinals from the playoffs in thrilling fashion. But it wasn’t

enough.

This year, it was obvious from spring training what the expectations were. Manager Joe Maddon had more winning talent to work with than ever. Perhaps more importantly, the Cubs finally had a winning mentality.

Fast forward through 107 wins, and we found ourselves down 2-1 to the Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League Championship Series. We had played awfully for two straight games, and I was beginning to let hope slip away.

But maybe, just this once, the story everyone wanted could not be denied.

When the Cubs completed their comeback series with a clean 5-0 shutout Saturday, I ran out my door and onto the street, shouting, “World Series!!” into the night. I will never be ashamed of that.

By the time this column prints, two games of the World Series will be in the books. Win or lose, I will be proud to call myself a Cubs fan.

But wouldn’t it just be right to go all the way?

Caleb Daniel is a junior journalism major from Lake Charles who serves as managing editor for The Tech Talk.

READING BETWEEN THE SIDELINES

Check your priorities, NFL MATT VALCHO Sports Editor | mvv002@latech.edu

D

espite being one of the largest sports league in the world, the National Football League has the public image of a prison league.

Last week, a public release of documents showed that the New York Giants’ kicker Josh Brown had admitted to physically beating his then-wife in 2015. Tuesday, the Giants released the kicker. Brown, who had already served a one game suspension at the beginning of the season for a May domestic abuse arrest, missed last week’s game as well when the documents came to light.

Brown’s one-game suspension was in week one of the NFL season. At the same time, Patriots quarterback Tom Brady was starting his four-game suspension for allegedly deflating footballs during a

playoff game in January 2015.

Also missing time at the beginning season was Le’Veon Bell, who was suspended four games (but later reduced to three) for missing a scheduled drug test.

In 2014, Raven’s running back Ray Rice was given a two-game suspension for a domestic abuse arrest. Only after TMZ released video of the incident between Rice and his then fiancé in a Las Vegas hotel elevator did the NFL finally suspend Rice indefinitely. He has not played in the NFL since.

Brown and Rice got one game each, and Brady got four. Let that sink in. Notice the issue? The NFL sure doesn’t. This strange policy continues to befuddle fans and media alike, but the NFL seems to refuse to change or establish a consistent disciple policy.

All this goes to show that the NFL needs to reevaluate how it handles discipline. The league

seems to constantly show how inept they are at giving out consistent punishments that match the crime or rule the player broke.

I think it is safe to say that an arrest for domestic assault is not on the same level as letting some air out of some footballs. When the NFL figures that out, the better the league will look, and anyone that follows the NFL knows they need some help.

The ratings for NFL games are slipping consistently. The recent Kaepernick controversy could be blamed for Americans tuning out of games, or it could be the growing popularity of college football.

Either way, the NFL needs a shot of good fortune to recover from some disastrous PR nightmares in the last few years.

Matt Valcho is a senior journalism major from Benton who serves as sports editor for The Tech Talk.

Trump claims that the media are ‘rigged’ “These people are among the most dishonest people in the world.

The media, they are the worst.

They’re trying to fix the election for crooked Hillary.”

This quote is from Trump’s accusation against the media at large.

Trump’s implication that the media are rigged shows little more than his ignorance and arrogance.

We’ve all heard someone complain about “the media.” For example, “the media are biased; the media are rigged; the media tell lies.”

Perhaps most surprising is how fearful it makes some people.

What they fail to understand is the phrase “the media” includes books, television, movies, podcasts, radio, newspapers and the whole internet. And although they say they do not trust the media, the same people who fear the media also rely on media for entertainment, news and studying.

Regardless of what anyone prefers to believe about the media, the facts are ironclad. Among the millions and millions of communication mediums in the world, rigging the entire media system would be impossible. Even if Trump’s main accusation was against televised news, he would be putting the blame on thousands of independent news stations.

Additionally, for Trump to believe or insinuate that the media could be rigged is not a presidential worldview. Not only does this behavior make Trump look like an unhappy toddler, but it presents an alarming lack of knowledge or care about the First Amendment.

A president should stand for the First Amendment and for free speech and for journalism. Because for journalism to be important and impactful and accurate, it has to be free.

A presidential candidate so publicly anti-media is a terror for anyone who values his or her own free speech. A person who values free speech and free press should reject a candidate who is obviously opposed to those ideas when they do not benefit himself.

Maybe his anti-media furor is a desperate search for a scapegoat.

Perhaps his constant criticism of news outlets is a sign that their reporting hit him in a place that hurt – a place of uncovering his true personality.

Trump’s potential presidency is a threat to the most basic rights given to Americans – those including the right to free press and, judging by his unbelievably anti-Islam rhetoric, the right to religious freedom.

If he does not believe the Bill of Rights extends to every American citizen, he is not fit to be president.

And if he thinks the media are somehow rigged to help his opponent win, he is woefully uninformed about the workings of his own nation.

October 27, 2016 • The Tech Talk • 5

www.thetechtalk.org

Artoberfest brews up fall fun DILLON NELSON Staff Reporter | djn005@latech.edu

Musicians played and local brewers displayed their craft Oct. 21 as The North Central Louisiana Arts Council held its seventh annual Artoberfest.

Allie Bennett, master of ceremonies, said Artoberfest was originally held by NCLAC as a start-up fundraiser meant to fund bigger fundraisers but has grown into its own event which is now hotly anticipated by the community.

“The arts community, the students and the business owners all want a place to come together, so events like this foster that desire and allow Ruston to grow and feed off itself,” Bennett said. “I think the fact that Artoberfest has grown into what you see now is a big indicator the community wants more collaborative, artistic events.”

Bennett said the environment invites people of varying interests to come together in their shared love of the arts. She said this is especially true for the brewers at the center of the festivities.

“You kind of get the sense that the people brewing are putting their hearts and souls into it,” Bennett said. “They have more of a personal interest in making it something special and are hoping to portray their love of the art form to you.”

Jacob Harvey, a junior business major, said he came to Artoberfest on the recommendation of his brewer friends so he could taste the many different flavors of the event. He said the event afforded local brewers a great opportunity to get their brews some attention.

“There are a lot of local brewers and businesses who are working together to make really great stuff,” Harvey said.

“These people who have ideas for flavors that are really out there, they explore these ideas and make them work.”

Harvey said despite the venue being packed and loud, the brewers made Artoberfest feel like a small-scale, intimate event by taking the time to talk to people.

“Local brewers are very personable and passionate and open about the process of making beers,” Harvey said.

“They’ll be like, ‘You don’t know anything about dry-hop, let me show you and explain it to you,’ and that is what made this event so cool.”

Elizabeth Pattillo, owner and public relations manager of Flying Heart Brewing, said Artoberfest is a prime opportunity to educate consumers on local beers. She said people

Photo by Brian Blakely

Shreveport-based Red River Brewing gives out samples of different craft beers during Artoberfest. particularly enjoyed their flagship beer, Black Heart Ale, with many citing its chocolate covered cherry finish.

“We had an exciting idea of the style and flavor of the beer we wanted to do when we first started from scratch,” Patillo said. “Making this beer paved the way so we could make all the other beers we’ve done, so we’re glad people still enjoy the original.”

John Gordon, another local brewer, said he thinks of brew-

ing as a hobby. He said he likes to create his own experimental concoctions in his spare time, but also enjoys attending Artoberfest and letting people sample and critique his brews.

“I like to experiment more but others like to try and make great mainstream flavors, so when we can all get together like this it’s a good intersection of tastes where we can sample each others brews and help each other to evolve a little with each year,” Gordon said.

‘Super Smash Bros.’ tourney raises funds for cancer foundation KACIE KAUFMAN Staff Reporter | kjk019@latech.edu Pink shirts, pink ribbons and pink hair were all present at a Monroe comic shop for its fourth “Super Smash Bros.” tournament.

On the afternoon of Oct. 23, “Smash” players from both Louisiana Tech and University of Louisiana at Monroe gathered at Clint’s Comics for a tournament raising awareness for breast cancer. The participants competed to become the champion of the fighting video game featuring Nintendo characters. All of the entrance fees from the event were donated to the American Cancer Foundation.

Paul McGee, assistant tournament organizer, said this was the fourth event of its kind to be held at Clint’s Comics, but the first held for a cause.

“We thought since it’s coming back in October we wanted to start it back with a bang, and October is breast cancer awareness month,” said the senior computer science major at ULM. “We wanted to show a ‘gaming for a cause’ type of thing.”

The participants raised $105 in donations for the American Cancer Foundation.

McGee said the tournament was an opportunity not only to raise awareness for a cause, but also to raise awareness of people with similar interests in the same area.

“I like that it gives people a social outlet,” he said. “It’s an area where there are two colleges — there’s Tech, there’s ULM. And through this community, through the tournaments we’ve done, a lot of players from Louisiana Tech and ULM have met and become friends.”

McGee said the connection of players

ment provided entertainment from different schools fostered a with a purpose. friendly rivalry.

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318-254-1090 Caffarel said the games often Matthew Brandl, a senior combecame intense. puter science major from Tech, said Flower & Gift Shop “You get your adrenaline the tournament was beneficial to all pumping; your hands shake after involved.

318-254-1090 match if it’s close,” he said.

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3open 18-2to5for4new is a fullplay-1 0 anyone service really Devin Caffarel won the tournament, 90 of any skill level to just fl or isFlint,oand gierfts,play w &m Gifon hop a few ing as the iconic villain Bowser.

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6 • The Tech Talk • October 27, 2016

WEEKLYHOROSCOPE www.horoscopes.com.net

Aries March 21 – April 19 Computer glitches or bank errors might send erroneous information to you about your finances. Perhaps the bank says you have less money than you do or a bill is higher than you thought it should be. If you can, make sure it gets settled today. You won’t want to spend your day under this cloud. You will probably want to indulge in total frivolity. Go ahead, Aries, you deserve it!

Taurus Apr 20 - May 20 You and someone close could disagree on an issue that both of you feel strongly about. Stubborn pride on both your parts could keep you from working things out. Let it go, Taurus. It isn’t worth ruining your relationship.

Someone you know might be headed for divorce or moving away, and the news could be a shock to you.

This should be a day of surprises - not all of them pleasant.

Gemini May 21 - Jun 20 Problems with machines could have your nerves on edge. This may be one day when everything seems to break. Some problems you might be able to fix yourself, Gemini, but at least one may involve something that has to be replaced. This might be the one you need the most right now. Think of it as a sign from the Universe that you should do something else. That’s the only way to stay sane.

Cancer Jun 21 - Jul 22 Today you might attend a party or group event with some friends, and become separated from them. Don’t panic, Cancer. You will probably run into them later. You might meet some new friends and hear some news that could interest you. This is a day when cell phones and other handheld devices are likely to come in handy. You will want to record or pass on a lot of information.

Leo Jul 23 - Aug 22 A number of surprise visitors could result in an impromptu party of some sort. This could be fun for you, Leo, but it could also be a bit irritating. It might interfere with something you had planned. There’s nothing you can do without sounding like Scrooge. Go with the flow, enjoy yourself, and then try to salvage your own plans as best as you can.

Virgo Aug 23 - Sep 22 This isn’t the day to take a trip by air, Virgo. Everything that can go wrong with such a trip will - delays, lost luggage, obnoxious seatmates. If you have one planned for today, change it to tomorrow. This also isn’t a good day to take a class, since your attention span could be unusually short. What can you do? Relax, read, surf the

Internet. A lot of interesting information could spark your curiosity.

CROSSWORDPUZZLE

Libra Sep 23 - Oct 22 One of your ambitions in life is to be financially independent, and lately you might have made great strides toward attaining that goal. Today, through no fault of your own, you may receive information that indicates there may have been a setback. However, all is not as it seems. Don’t go into a panic until you know all the facts, Libra. You’re probably still right on track.

Scorpio Oct 23 - Nov 21 A surprising revelation from a friend or acquaintance might wake you up to the fact that you don’t really know this person as well as you thought you did.

Information could set you off on a search for knowledge that keeps you occupied for hours. A child or young person could come to you and ask for help.

This promises to be a busy but interesting day, Scorpio.

Make the most of it!

Sagittarius Nov 22 - Dec 21 Your mind is likely to be going a thousand miles an hour today, Sagittarius. Thoughts and ideas are pouring into your head like rain from the sky. Some of them might be confusing and others contradictory. You might be tempted to puzzle over them until you give yourself a headache. Write them down and look at them in a day or two. Your ideas are more likely to make sense to you then.

Capricorn Dec 22 - Jan 19 An old friend you haven’t seen for a long time may suddenly resurface, perhaps at a party or group event that you attend. This could take you by surprise, Capricorn, but you won’t be any less happy to see him or her again. Surprising news may come to you through email or phone, and this might set you off in a totally different direction from the one you started in this morning.

Aquarius Jan 20 - Feb 18 A sudden, unexpected problem at home could be rather upsetting. This probably relates to plumbing, electricity, or some other kind of home equipment. You will have to handle it, Aquarius, which means you will be housebound for most of the day waiting for a repairman when you’d rather be out. A friend might hear of your predicament and come over to keep you company.

Across 1. Repair shop fig.

4. Animal life 9. First son of Adam and Eve 13. ___ wop 14. Brownfurred aquatic carnivorous mammal 15. Computer shortcut 16. Amuse 18. Playground retort 19. “Circle of Friends” author Binchy 20. Lip cosmetic 22. Like a Humvee in Baghdad?

25. Ms. Fitzgerald 26. Continental cash 28. Federal soldier in the Civil War 32. Norse goddess 35. Short letters 37. Brewer’s need 38. Jack of “Rio Lobo” 40. Now you ___...

42. Horse’s gait 43. Lover of Juliet 45. Stalks 47. Buckeyes’ sch.

48. Yellowish brown pigment 50. Racetracks 52. “Clueless” catchphrase 54. Charms 58. Wrist band 62. Perfidious 63. Send payment 64. Resisting 67. Signs 68. Paris subway 69. 100 yrs.

70. Album unit

HIGH 84 LOW 58

>

FRIDAY

HIGH 86 LOW 59

Down 1. Excess fluid in an organ 2. Echolocation 3. Tribal emblem 4. Precede 5. Court fig.

6. Tony winning Hagen 7. Singer Sedaka 8. Army leader?

9. Percussion instrument 10. Broadway opener 11. Camaro model 12. Breakfast area 15. Misplace 17. Bacchanalian cry 21. Thickness 23. Cupid’s counterpart 24. Spoils, with “on” 27. Take care of 29. Corn syrup brand 30. Those, to Juan 31. Caesar’s accusation 32. Word on a towel 33. “The Time Machine” people 34. Hobbling 36. Sift 39. Minatory 41. Certain Fed 44. Beginnings 46. Applies haphazardly 49. Feel poorly 51. Brownbag stuff 53. Physicist Enrico 55. In reserve 56. Stream of water 57. Part of an act

58. Warner ___ 59. San ___, Italy 60. Prayer ending 61. Abound 65. Canonized Mlle.

66. Tax deferred nest egg

LAST ISSUE’S SOLUTION

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

Pisces Feb 19 - Mar 20 Upsetting news that you receive from far away, perhaps by phone or email, could send you into an emotional tailspin. There’s an aura of uncertainty about what you hear - it may not make sense. Before you pass along the news or panic, Pisces, make sure you know all the facts. You’re likely to find that it’s been blown all out of proportion. In view of this, you deserve an evening out.

www.accuweather.com SATURDAY

HIGH 87 LOW 59

SUNDAY

HIGH 86 LOW 58

ZUMWALT from pg. 1

“He led several field trips that were always popular with the students,” Newman said.

“He also created this ‘EZ Study Method’ pamphlet that helped students gain better study habits. He was really invested in the students, and they were really important to him.”

Maureen Hillard, a former geology professor at Tech, was involved in contributing to the scholarship letter. She taught beside Zumwalt for 25 years and said she knew him very well, both professionally and personally.

“Dr. Zumwalt was a brilliant geologist,” Hillard said. “As a person, he was an incredibly kind and generous individual

71. That is to say...

72. Prior to, to Prior

DAILY U

WEEKLYWEATHER TODAY

www.bestcrosswords.com

who loved the outdoors and was devoted to his family.”

She said Zumwalt left an impact on everyone around him from his students to his colleagues, including herself.

“It was a privilege to have Dr. Zumwalt as my mentor and colleague at Louisiana Tech, but most importantly as my dear friend,” Hillard said.

“I think of him often and feel deeply grateful that he was part of my life for so many years.”

Donations for the Gary Zumwalt Scholarship in Environmental Science and Evolution can be sent to the Louisiana Tech Foundation, P.O. Box 3183, Ruston, LA 71272.

>

MONDAY

HIGH 86 LOW 60

TUESDAY

Vizza, a senior art major, said she was excited to pass down her crown because it gave her successor the opportunity to impact the university and the Miss Tech title.

“I worked this year to improve this program as much as possible,” Vizza said. “And it’s important to keep that legacy of always improving alive.

The quote is, ‘leave it better than you found it,’ and I think I’ve done that. I think it’s important for the next girl to do that as well.”

Vizza said she encourages Blake to cherish and enjoy every moment of her time as Miss Tech.

“Wear the crown as much as possible because this year will fly by,” she said. “Wherever you go, you are representing this university, so just have fun with it.”

Difficulty HARD

WEDNESDAY

HIGH 84 LOW 56

BLAKE from pg. 1

SUDOKUPUZZLE

HIGH 77 LOW 53

>

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

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

HEARD from pg. 1

“I think that turning the building into an area that the community can use is a great idea since it is located in a great spot downtown,” she said.

Ammen Jordan, director of development, said the building, even in its unimproved condition, has a great amount of potential.

“Without any walls, it feels like a blank canvas, and you can envision what the space can be,” he said.

Jordan said revitalizing the structure is significant for Ruston.

“It’s important for the city to hold onto and breathe new life into historical elements such as the Heard Building,” he said.

Photo by Jonathan Shaul

The Heard building is located by Railroad park in downtown Ruston.

Jordan said the building could eventually provide a place for events that a number of community members could enjoy,

such as a place for a viewing of a Tech away game.

“Ultimately, we envision it as a building for the community,” he said.

October 27, 2016 • The Tech Talk • 7

www.thetechtalk.org

More Talk NEAR

FOR

2016

T R O J A N S E X U A L H E A LT H R E P O R T

C A R D

TOP 10 1 UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA

6 UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA

2 OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY

7 UNIVERSITY OF CONNECTICUT

3 UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN 4 UNIVERSITY OF OREGON

8 BROWN UNIVERSITY

2016

9 STANFORD UNIVERSITY

T R O J A N S E X U A L H E A LT H 5 THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS 10 UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN R E P O R T C A R D

121 LOUISIANA TECH UNIVERSITY SCHOOLS MAKING

CONFERENCE RIVALRIES IN THE TOP 10

MOVES

B O T T Othat Mschools 1 continue 0 to make sexual health

Competition is fierce both on and off

Comparing year-over-year rankings, it is clear

the field, as this year’s top colleges and universities hail from major national

131 MARQUETTE UNIVERSITY

collegiate athletic conferences. Kicking

a priority. For example, the University of

136 TROY STATE UNIVERSITY

California-Los Angeles made the largest jump

BAYLOR off 132 with the SEC, UNIVERSITY the University of Georgia

137 up inPROVIDENCE the rankings, COLLEGE moving an impressive 40

ranked 1 in theSTATE reportUNIVERSITY card. The 133 No. CHICAGO

spotsUNIVERSITY from #100 toOF#60.

Right behind, was 138 NOTRE DAME

PAC-12 featured four schools, including

139 ST. JOHN’S UNIVERSITY

134 UNIVERSITY OF NEW ORLEANS

Oregon State University (#2), University of

135 (#4), SETON HALL UNIVERSITY Oregon University of Arizona (#6), and

Vanderbilt University rising 39 spots from last year, bringing them to #47. The University

140 BRIGHAM YOUNGmade UNIVERSITY of Southern California headway rising

37 spots, from #73 to #36. Lastly, Purdue Stanford University (#9). Two Midwestern Infographic courtesy of Trojan’s Sexual went Health Report Card University-Main Campus from #120 to powerhouses from the Big Ten were ranked, including the University of Michigan-Ann

BRINGING IN Arbor (#3) and University of WisconsinTHE BOTTOM 10

Madison (#10). Finally, the University of This year the bottom ten welcomes new Texas at Austin (#5) represented the Big 12, and old schools. Three new schools join the while Brown (#8) represented the Ivy League. bottom ten with Marquette University taking the #131 spot. Chicago State University moved down twelve spots, coming in at #133. Dropping seven spots is Seton Hall

TrojanBrands.com University with the #135 spot. A few other schools remained from last year’s ranking, such as Baylor University who went from #131 to #132. The University of New Orleans also dropped one spot, ranking #134.

#84 jumping 36 spots.

RIVALRIES IN THE RANKINGS School rivalries are presented throughout the Trojan™ Sexual Health Report Card with schools competing for the top spot: • Florida State University takes on in-state rival University of Miami, coming in at #16 and #29 respectively.

• Ivy League rivals University of Pennsylvania and Harvard University continue to fight to show who is best with University of Pennsylvania taking the lead by one spot. Both schools moved up in ranking, University of Pennsylvania from #21 to #14 and Harvard from #29 to #15.

• University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill dominates Duke University, ranking #20 and #35, respectively.

TrojanBrands.com

Trojan Brand and Sterling’s BestPlaces ranked Louisiana Tech at 121 of 140 universities based on sexual health resources.

AMBER HARRINGTON Staff Reporter | anh038@latech.edu

in rankings. He said beyond a freshman seminar on sexually-transmitted diseases and counseling services, not Although Louisiana Tech may have much more is offered on the subject.

“I haven’t heard about Tech doing ranked No. 1 in the State of Louisiana in MONEY’s 2016-2017 Best Colleges anything to raise awareness about sexreport, the university ranked much ual health,” Caldwell said. “I’ve been to one awareness meeting that was manlower when it came to sexual health.

According to Trojan Brand’s 2016 datory for a class, but that’s the only Sexual Health Report Card, Tech thing I’ve ever gone to that talks about ranked 121 in the nation for sexual STDs and the problems they cause.”

Caldwell feels that without the adehealth education on campus.

The study, hosted annually by Sper- quate amount of attention, Tech’s lack ling’s BestPlaces, analyzed 140 major of sexual health education could ultimately affect students’ campuses nationwide futures. and graded them ac“If you have an cording to their sexual “If you have an STD, and you don’t get health resources and treated, you could get information available STD, and you really sick, and it could to students. The study don’t get treated, cost you a partner in looked at factors such as the future,” he said. “It hours of operation and you could get also makes you feel accessibility of health really sick and it terrible and makes you centers, sexual health not want to get up and education, print and could cost you go about your everyday online resources, avail- a partner in life.” ability of contraceptives Louisiana is no and STD and HIV test- the future.” stranger to the spotlight ing. The main objecwhen it comes to a lack tive, according to the DREW CALDWELL of sexual health educareport card published by sophomore tion.

Sperling’s BestPlaces, kinesiology major The state is among is to positively impact one of the nation’s leadcollege campuses as students continue to push to improve ers in sexually transmitted diseases.

According to data released by the their rankings.

According to Sperling’s BestPlaces Center for Disease Control and Prepublication, “In the 11 years since we vention in the 2013 STD Surveillance started the study, we’ve seen a huge Report, Louisiana had the highest rate improvement in the level of sexual in the nation for congenital syphilis health information and resources pro- and gonorrhea, the second highest vided by the schools’ student health rate for chlamydia, and the third highcenters. It’s our feeling that the Trojan est rate for primary and secondary Sexual Health Report Card is a key (P&S) syphilis. Most cases were found reason why students are getting better in the northeastern region of the state.

“I think there are a lot of reasons information and resources. Students have used the Trojan rankings to ap- the scores are so low,” Caldwell said. proach their administration and make “From people just being careless to a case for better resources and ser- not knowing that STDs are a big deal to not taking the right approach – and vices.”

This past year, Tech jumped up 11 everything in between. In the future, they should have a chapter talking spots from 132 to 121 on the charts.

Drew Caldwell, a sophomore kine- about the dangers of unprotected siology major, said Tech isn’t proactive sex, alcohol abuse and drug abuse to enough to tackle its sexual health is- help students learn and hopefully keep sues, which accounts for its slow climb them safe.”

www.thetechtalk.org

8 • The Tech Talk • October 27, 2016

THIS WEEK IN

BULLDOG

Burroughs ready to lead ‘wolfpack’

FOOTBALL

The Louisiana Tech football team will host the Rice Owls at 6 p.m. on Saturday inside Joe Aillet Stadium.

The game can be seen on CampusInsiders.com and can be listened to on Z107.5FM. Tech leads the series between the two teams (5-4).

Photo by Tom Morris/LATechPix.com

The Diamond Dogs look on from the dugout during the match up with Louisiana - Lafayette last season at J.C. Love Field at Pat Patterson Park. The Bulldogs are coming off the first NCAA Tournament at-large bid in school history.

ALEX HEARD Staff Reporter | amh072@latech.edu

Overall Record: 5-3, (3-1) Points per game: 41.9 Points allowed per game: 31.6 Players to watch: Trent Taylor – WR 86 catches, 1147 yards, 9 touchdowns Xavier Woods – S 17 tackles, 3.5 sacks, 4.5 tackles for loss Tech is ranked No. 3 in the country in total offense.

Overall Record: 1-6, (0-4) Points per game: 25.6 Points allowed per game: 37.0 Players to watch: Alex McGough – QB 128 for 217, 1392 yards, 10 touchdowns Emmanuel Ellerbee – LB 71 tackles, 3.5 sacks, 1 interception Rice is ranked No. 119 in the country in total defense.

be happier where we are.”

Offense carried Tech last season.

Burroughs said Tech’s bats should still have Last season, the Louisiana Tech baseball the same pop in 2017.

“The players have looked good,” Burroughs team could make anyone believe in magic.

After flying under the radar at the begin- said. “Offensively, we have almost the entire ning of the year, the Diamond ‘Dogs amassed team back from last year’s regional club. The a 42-20 record, the most wins since 1988 and majority of our offensive punch is back.”

Burroughs said despite being a new coach a NCAA regional appearance, their first since and having new ideals, he does not want to fix 1987.

Unfortunately, Tech fell to Mississippi State what is not broken.

“You do not come in and reinvent the wheel,” and not long after the loss coach Greg Goff acBurroughs said. “When things are cepted the head coaching job at the working it would be kind of stupid University of Alabama. to come in and change up things. I Tech called upon a fairly local think that is when you check your man to take over the team -- Lane ego at the door and adjust to what Burroughs. is here. We will probably get a whole Burroughs joins Tech after four new team next year since we have so years as the head baseball coach at many seniors.”

Northwestern State. There he comBurroughs said there has been no piled 113 wins and led the Demons neglect of him and his staff ’s ideals to three straight 30-win seasons from even though the team is not used to 2014-16. them.

Burroughs said moves are always “The guys have been great,” Burtough for any family but Ruston and BURROUGHS roughs said. “They have accepted us its residents have made the transition with open arms and have done everygo smoothly.

“Ruston has been great,” Burroughs said. thing we have asked. Excited about what spring “Whenever you move you have a lot of stress ball has to offer.”

Under Goff, Tech’s players had a “wolfpack” because you have not only have to worry about your new job and new team but your family too mindset -- they fight for each other no matter -- getting them moved, finding a house and sell- the circumstance.

Burroughs said the team will keep that mening a house. Getting (children) into new schools is always stressful, but the people of Ruston and tality and everyone must stay extremely close in Louisiana Tech have been wonderful to us. I get order to succeed this upcoming season.

“The ‘wolfpack’ is an offensive thing that is it, I have not lost a game yet since I have not coached one. Everybody loves me right now. kind of popular right now,” Burroughs said. “I The people here have made the transition so am actually good friends with the guy that inmuch easier than it could have been. I could not vented that wolfpack term -- I know all about

Photo by Parker Miller

Lane Burroughs talks with one of his players during his tenure at Northwestern State. that and have done it before. Our whole thing is about family. I know that is a word thrown around a lot but it is big in the development of our players and our identity. If you don’t have an identity then when things start to go bad and you reach back to things to hold on to -- you are in trouble. One thing about sports is the guys in that locker room come from different walks of life, whether rich or poor, having two parents or one. But when we get in that locker room we are essentially one heartbeat.”

Tech Sets Up Foundation Account to Help Jaqwis Dancy NEWS SERVICES Since the Oct. 17 announcement that Louisiana Tech sophomore running back Jaqwis Dancy was diagnosed with stage 3 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma earlier this month, University officials have been overwhelmed by the generosity of supporters wanting to help the young man.

The 19-year-old Dancy is currently at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis undergoing his first week of treatment. Louisiana Tech Athletics Director Tommy McClelland said that although there is a need for some financial help, it’s not a catastrophic one due to the unbelievable support of St. Jude.

Families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food. However, LA Tech Athletics plans to help Jaqwis with other related expenses, such as additional tutoring and academic supplies, nutritional supplements and anything he may need to help keep his immune system healthy during and after chemotherapy.

In order for supporters to help while also staying within NCAA guidelines for student-athlete eligibility, the University has set up an account at the Louisiana Tech Foundation (MEMO: Jaqwis Dancy). This will allow anyone wishing to help financially do so without putting Dancy’s eligibility at risk.

“We are so grateful for all those who have expressed a desire to

help during this difficult time,” said McClelland. “However, it is so important to remember that even in these types of situations we must follow the NCAA’s rules and guidelines. This is why we are setting up an account with the Louisiana Tech Foundation to help over the length of Jaqwis’ treatment and recovery.

“The bulk of expenses will be covered through medical insurance and the amazing support of St. Jude. However, there will be some additional expenses that NCAA guidelines will allow us to assist with, so fan support is appreciated.”

Fans are reminded that per NCAA guidelines, no direct support can be provided to Dancy or

his family by Louisiana Tech supporters (this includes donating to GoFundMe accounts).

The only way to provide financial support that is allowable by the NCAA is to donate to the Louisiana Tech Foundation – MEMO: Jaqwis Dancy.

Fans can do this by contacting Tyson Baldwin at the Louisiana Tech University Foundation at 318-255-7950 or by mailing their donation to: Marbury Alumni Center, Louisiana Tech University, PO Box 3183, Ruston, La. 71272.

Fans are also reminded that they can send messages to Jaqwis through Twitter by using the hashtag #Dogs4Dancy or by leaving a message at Facebok.com/ LATechAthletics.