The Tech Talk 4.28.16

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NAMI hosts suicide prevention walk DILLON NELSON Staff Reporter | djn005@latech.edu The National Alliance on Mental Illness hosted two events last week around the Lady of the Mist in order to raise awareness of suicides committed by those with mental illness. A candlelight vigil was held the evening of Thursday, April 23 while a walk was held the following Saturday morning.

“With these events and NAMI in general, we address everything on the mental illness spectrum, from depression to PTSD to autism,” said Jene Flowers, vice president of NAMI, “It’s pretty much our motto at this point, we’re stomping out the stigma surrounding mental illness.”

Flowers said there are several misconceptions held by the general public which lend to this stigma. She said such misconceptions make life even harder to live for those who suffer from mental illness.

“It’s extremely negative,” Flowers said, “When people hear the term ‘mental illness’ they kind of draw back in certain ways as far as what they believe mentally ill people are capable of or what it defines them as.”

The officers of NAMI took turns giving speeches, telling stories, and

reading poetry at the vigil before ceding the mic to anyone else who wanted to speak. As the sun set, attendees gathered near the lady of the mist, lit their candles and shared in a moment of silence.

Morgan Nall, a sophomore biology major and representative officer of PRISM, took the open mic before the walk Saturday morning and told the crowd her personal story of mental illness.

“I had no one to talk to and started to self-harm at 10 years old,” Nall said, “I got to such a point in my depression that I had attempted suicide five times by the time I was eleven.”

Nall said it took several hospitalizations and four more suicide attempts for her to realize her situation was out of control. She said her moment of clarity came when her friend Joseph committed suicide.

“I don’t know what I would do without groups like PRISM and NAMI,” Nall said. “The people in these organizations provide me with support and give me hope that, excuse me because I know you have heard this so much before, everything can be better.”

Photos by Ashley Kober

Top: Attendees release balloons in honor of those lost to suicide Right: A candlelight vigil was held and a moment of silence observed

> see NAMI page 10

Greek Week sees competitions, fundraising PAYTON POTTER Staff Reporter | jpp017@latech.edu Louisiana Tech’s annual Greek Week brought with it competitive events, philanthropic fundraising and a visit from Tech’s incoming chapter, Delta Delta Delta.

Phi Mu brought home the win for sororities while Pi Kappa Alpha placed first among fraternities.

Megan Ruffolo, a member of Alpha Chi Omega, said she enjoyed participating in Greek Week.

“It’s crazy fun,” said Ruffolo, a junior electrical engineering major. “This is my first Greek Week, and

it exceeded every expectation I had. I’ve enjoyed how much everyone gets into it.

The enthusiasm from every sorority and fraternity there, especially at Song Fest –everyone was such a good sport there.”

Aside from Song Fest, Greek Week featured events Cook-Off, sports tournaments, a trivia night, Stroll-Off, Penny Wars and a presentation by Chris “Sawman” Sawyer.

Ruffolo said she encourages everyone to experience Greek life.

“Greek Week is all about Greek unity, so that is a big push-point for this week,”

she said. “It’s all about everyone coming together to support each other. If anyone has ever thought about going Greek but they were unsure, they should go through recruitment. I was skeptical going through, but it’s a great experience. You get involved in so much more than the stereotype.”

Megan Franks, president of Panhellenic council, said her first Greek Week as president was a success.

“I definitely went in here skeptical,” said Franks, a junior business major. “I didn’t think we were going to be able to pull it all together like we did, but I

have no complaints. I’m thankful this was my year to be in charge and this is how it’s gone.”

Franks said Penny Wars and Song Fest were both philanthropic events that raised $22,665 and $845, respectively. The funds from Penny Wars went to MedCamps while Song Fest benefited Christian Community Action in Ruston.

Franks said Song Fest also collected 415 canned goods to donate to Christian Community Action and a presentation by former Navy Seal Craig Sawyer brought in 3,116 box

tops to donate to Apple Club.

Tech’s incoming sorority, Tri Delta, came to visit campus for the first time since they were chosen for expansion. Rachel Lamey, partnerships and marketing specialist for Tri Delta, said she enjoyed the Greek Week environment and was surprised how well each Greek unity worked together, especially at Song Fest.

“What stood out to us so much was the fraternities and sororities were all a part of that together,” she said. “It wasn’t one group by themselves like it is at

some campuses. It was lots of groups coming together to create one act. The camaraderie and teamwork that went into all their preparation was really cool.”

Lamey said Tri Delta feels fortunate to be joining the Tech community.

“Hats off all the students at Tech,” she said.

“We at Tri Delta have been blown away by the level of academic excellence and the willingness and desire to serve and give back to the university and to Ruston. That has been very inspiring to see. We are definitely excited and proud to say we will be a part of it.”

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EZ Read Monitoring wins TOP DAWG REBEKAH BARNES Staff Reporter | reb033@ latech.edu

“We have Sree Sanakam who competed twice with two different concepts,” she Louisiana Tech’s Top said. “He has a startup now DAWG New Venture Cham- that is successfully negotiatpionship is in its 12th year of ing contracts.”

Students who will be furgiving students the chance at building a startup company thering their research are the winners of this year’s from the ground up.

Students presented busi- competition: Rhodes Moran, ness ideas and inventions to Ryan Frick, Fran Ewing and a panel of judges for the op- Vincent Moore of EZ Read Monitoring. portunity to win Their product 4,000 dollars. wirelessly checks Debbie Inman “It clicked water levels and is the director and we realrecords the data of the center for for environmental entrepreneurship ized this isn’t mitigation. and information just educa“It’s going to technology and tional. This make a certain directs the Top part of the enviDAWG competi- is the real ronmental busitions. world and ness considerably “When we first started out, we we can make easier for people had students who a difference.” who are trying to monitor things in were doing this remote locations,” purely as an edu- RYAN FRICK said Moran, a secational activity,” mechanical nior mechanical Inman said. “Now engineering major engineering major. we have students He said to who want to learn about business startup, but prepare for their presentathey also want to start a busi- tion, they tried to explain the ness, so several of these stu- most important parts of their dents are starting businesses design to as many people as a result of going through as they could so they could make sure it was easy to unthis process.”

She said one year a stu- derstand.

“This isn’t a huge, lucradent, Evan Puckett, designed a cord for headphones now tive proposition,” he said. “It’s being sold on Amazon, and saving people their time and other students have contin- money.”

The product can monitor ued their research and dewetland areas in Louisiana as signs as well.

Photo by Devin Dronett

Ryan Frick, Rhodes Moran, Vincent Moore and Fran Ewing won first place in the TOP DAWG New Venture Championship and also received the Innovation Fund Award. well as other coastal areas or along the Mississippi River to the Great Lakes.

“We had a lot of designs, but this particular one we won with came from Rhodes,” Frick, a senior me-

chanical engineering major, said. “At first we were trying to make something that sits in water, but when we came back from Christmas break, Rhodes has this brand new idea: ‘We’re hanging this

thing up.”

He said they plan to use the money to build prototypes and fund their pilot program before producing it for the market.

“Once we got that idea

and started telling people about it, they wanted it right then and there,” Frick said. “It clicked and we realized this isn’t just educational. This is the real world and we can make a difference.”

Odyssey comes to Tech JENNA PRICE Staff Reporter | jmp073@ latech.edu According to Wordpress, users produce about 58.6 million new posts each month.

Through her own blog posts, Valerie Morgan sought to impact fellow college students by writing for the Odyssey Online, a college-focused website which employs students to write blogs.

“Before I write an article I think, ‘Is this something that makes me feel some strong emotion?’” said Morgan, a sophomore nursing major. “I think choosing a topic I’m most passionate about is the best way to impact others.”

According to the Odyssey Online site, the idea of the Odyssey was created when two Indiana University students realized they were dissatisfied with generic and highly-politicized news.

In June 2014, the Odyssey was launched with the purpose of diversifying the media industry through blogs posted to Facebook. The article “Why Girls Love the Dad Bod” received reactions from the Washington Post and ABC News.

Today, there are more than 700 branches called Odyssey communities largely centered around college campuses, according to the Odyssey Online site.

During the 2016 winter quarter, the Odyssey established a branch on the Louisiana Tech campus.

Madalyn Bell said she began writ-

ing for the Odyssey as a way to cultivate creativity.

“I often had these ‘light bulb’ moments where I thought, ‘someone should write about this,’ so I decided I should try it for myself,” said Bell, a freshman business management major.

“I try to keep my articles creative and true to me.”

Within the Odyssey communities, Morgan said the writers are expected to write one article per week and share other articles onto their Facebook accounts.

“Everyone our age has some sort of social media account,” Morgan said.

“The content I write is something I can relate to or have an opinion on. My target audience is 18 to 30 year olds.

Writing on a social media platform is perfect.”

Catherine Burke said after writing for the Tech Talk, the Odyssey Online allows her personality to come out in her writing.

“The Odyssey is more entertainment, so I get to have a more sarcastic or funny tone in my articles with a lot of expressiveness and attitude,” said Burke, a senior journalism major.

Burke’s most recent article is on the subject of abortion and is titled “Why I am Not a Cosmo Girl.” The article includes the subheadline “Because glorified baby killing and sex isn’t cute.”

Tori Ward writes the blog for Experience Ruston at the Ruston-Lincoln Convention and Visitors Bureau. Ward said blogging should not be the public’s

sole outlet for news.

“Everyone I know has a blog and it’s become such a cornerstone for communications and social media,” said Ward, a business administration graduate student. “But in my perspective, it’s not news credible. When I read a blog, I read it with a grain of salt.”

Ward has used her blog for the CVB to promote Ruston in different blog series like “Tori’s Travels.” Ward said blogging should be used for public relations purposes.

“People feel like they need to blog about everything now,” Ward said.

“There are valuable things that can be shared through blogs. I got to experience Ruston in a different manner because I set out for ‘Tori’s Travels.’”

Les Guice is the first Tech president to have a blog account. His blog centers around his presidency at Tech and updates readers on news about the university.

Guice said his blog and social media accounts reach different audiences and communicate different messages.

“Some have said that the blog demystifies the president’s office and activities,” Guice said. “I believe the blog has made me more approachable to many people.”

According to the Odyssey Online site, the blogs published are to promote and reflect the writers’ diverse perspectives on topics and interests to social networks.

“We have a different message other than ‘news,’” Bell said.

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FEBRUARY 18,

2016

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Gov. John Bel Edwards addresses a joint state session on Feb. 14 about educatio n budget concerns and beginning the new special legislative session.

THE FUTURE

OF TOPS Patrick Dennis

/ The Advocate

Louisiana Tech and for the future other state universities address, discu of higher educa

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Student orga nization hosts seco nd line even t for Mardi Gras holidays

ss a ELLIE MOSLA tion during financial crisis plan Editor-in-Chief | emo012@NDER what exactly latech.edu to “The recent do with TOPS. dents will As Louisian announcements re- impacted not actually be directly gan registrati a Tech students be- lated to TOPS had to do . Instead the university will last week, theon for spring quarter expected shortfall of statewith the be receiving higher educatiofuture of the states approximately $28 million, funds, this change. the most impact from that huge concern n funds became a were necessar y to fund “It should have the remainde .

TOPS no effect on r of this year,” for dents at this point,” On Feb. 11, stuLes Guice, Tech said pect it fice of Student the Louisiana Ofpresident. “The to have a he said. “We exgovernor clarified Financial Assistan (LAFSA) announc that those funds of $1.5 million to budgetar y impact ed the suspensi ce to support the $2 million on of TOPS and the for 24 hours many on absorbed by theTOPS fund would be university this year which dents and faculty us to will universities. I stuwant- other reduce some services or cause wondering how members were left ed to let our students know make adjustments. soon they that as possible would as We are to attend school be able not so that they would faced with other have to worry budget cuts for also year.”

The Taylor or have a job. in the this for Students Opportunity Program studies and registration.” midst of With these Although many new changes, has played a in Louisiana (TOPS) said some Guice students and assisting huge part in funding ulty members and Louisian , fac- with these of his main concerns dents have been many student’s changes are a resi- lenges tion; but Louisian the chaleducaawaiting they may cause is faced with a higher education how this change may effectnews of sity at the end the universtudents, future a crucial decision current of of the year because spent funs and students and – universities, their prior obligatio Guice said current ns. stu-

Ruston’s KXK Z

A TECH U NIVERSI

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35th annual

>> see TOPS page

6

PAYTON POTTE R Staff Reporter | jpp017@ latech.edu A number of African America comed the Mardi n organizat a New Orleans Gras season to Louisiana ions weltradition known Tech with The celebrati as second United Afrikan on of traditional dance, lining. last Wednesd American Men (UAAM), hosted by ay According outside the student center.took place is defined as to FrenchQuarter.com, the a group of dancing second line low a main parade, celebran dance with parasols,such as a Mardi Gras ts who folparade, UAAM presiden banners or handkerchiefs. and t Anthony gy major, said the celebration Parker, a junior sociolothe participants’ was intended ancestors. to honor “It means of all, I’m fromeverything to me,” Parker New Orleans. said. “First time to give thanks We to everybody wanted to use this give thanks to from New Orleans; paving the wayall our ancestors before us, and also for for all us black campus. We wanted kids to make sure on Louisiana Tech were seen, and we were make Parker said the sure we have a good heard, we time.” second line from a New Orleans tradition is derived funeral tradition.

“We used day,” he said. to second line for funerals back in the Mardi Gras or “But now, we do it at celebrati ons for song comes on,birthdays or whatever. Wheneve Parker said everyone knows how to second r the line.” with the Black the second line celebrati Student Union’s on “We chose Black Culture aligned Week. needs to know this day to pump everythin about g everyone BSU vice presidenour black culture,” Parker said t Siana Shepherd since Mardi Gras noted that marks the beginnin second line celebrati g of “Mardi Gras is on was a last hurrah forLent, the fun,” many. she said. “It’s ple start fasting, right before peobefore you do so it’s a rejuvenation. Have what fun right Shepherd said you’ve got to do.” as a way to bring the second line celebrati on served together the African ganizations on American orcampus.

>> see SECON

Radiothon

D LINE page 6

PRINCESS WARREN Staff Reporter | pcw005@ latech.edu part of it.

KXKZ, Z107.5 “Not only it hosted its 35th of Ruston made a differenc annual Radiotho every year ,butdo I have to do it raise money n in order e as I get to do it every for St. Jude’s year; t’s challengi was raised, and Hospital. More to help all proceeds $60,000 a rewarding thing ng but certainly Jude’s. went directly to do,” McKento St. ney said.

The Radiotho He said the radio to all to donate n was held Feb. 1-2 and or volunteer. was open station does not set a monetar Z107.5 broadcas ted from Super is no disappoin y goal, so there where voluntee 1 MCKENNEY selves or others. tment to themof money raisedrs updated listeners on Foods store “The goal is to make pledges and encouraged peoplethe amount or donate in person. to call in to hope as we can to bring as much Jude’s,” McKenne Matt McKenne the kids of St. y said. said the station y, the program director He said the radio at KXKZ, Radiotho has been doing station plans more than 30 the to n Radiotho keep each years. having year and they He said n for from when he are always thinkingthe was younger he remembers the event ways to make it bigger and of so now it is cool better. to be a >> see RADIOT HON page 6 Patrick Hall, a Tech alumnus, answers Photo by Ashley Radiothon to Kober phones during raise money for KXKZ’s 35th annual St. Jude Children’ s Hospital.

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•”Love’s Labour’s Lost” in Stone Theatre @ 7:30 p.m.

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• Softball v. Southern Mis-

• BOSS early registration begins for veterans, honors program students and graduate students @ 9 a.m.

• BOSS early registration begins for seniors @ 9 a.m.

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• Last day to drop/resign with a “W”.

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April 28, 2016 • The Tech Talk • 3

Ruston races for the cure with Susan G. Komen STARLA GATSON Staff Reporter | sjg021@latech.edu

Ruston residents broke out their running shoes and pink dresses Saturday for the Susan G. Komen Color Me for A Cure 5K Pink Dress Dash.

The race was held at the Ruston Country Club and was Lincoln Parish’s third 5K for the Susan G. Komen Foundation.

Becky Tripp, local affiliate coordinator for the Komen Foundation, said the Pink Dress Dash was planned to bring a new and unique fundraiser to Ruston.

“This year we decided to do something different that we hadn’t seen in this area, so we picked a dress run,” Tripp said.

Stations were set up throughout the race course, handing out pink accessories such as sunglasses, headbands and beaded necklaces for the runners to wear during the race.

This year’s race included more than 200 runners and numerous sponsors, including Newk’s Eatery, Remax Results Realty and the Ruston Country Club.

Tripp said 75 percent of the money raised from the 5K would be used in North Louisiana while the remaining funds would be

Photo courtesy of Kendall Garner

Runners dressed in pink gathered at the starting line in anticipation of the Pink Dress Dash.

sent to the Komen Foundation’s national branch.

Jessie Tucker, a contract employee for the Komen Foundation, said this event is especially beneficial to

Ruston’s neighboring areas.

“A lot of the surrounding parishes are lacking money to fund those women who have been diagnosed with

Toastmasters club comes to campus KEIERA BELL Staff Reporter | klb072@ latech.edu

chapter of Toastmasters will be targeting Tech and Grambling students, along Louisiana Tech has the with residents of the Ruston opportunity to add a new community, to join the orgaclub called Toastmasters to nization.

“We really want college the variety of groups on its students going in any field to campus.

Toastmasters is a non- know Toastmasters is helpful profit educational organi- and a huge benefit,” McDonzation that operates clubs ald said. “They won’t suffer worldwide for the purpose from low self-esteem or nerof helping members develop vousness in job interviews.”

Garrett Hughes, a setheir communication and nior marketing leadership skills major, said he through practice “I see this heard about the and feedback. organization on a They held their as a chance podcast and then first meeting for people to proceeded to Saturday at the get in touch with Lincoln Parish Li- be a part of McDonald about brary, which was something joining. open to everyone, bigger than “Since I was so people could one of the sevlearn what the themselves.” eral who wanted club was about to start the club and see a dem- TOMICA here in Ruston I onstration of their MCDONALD chapter president was chosen to be future meetings. the representaTomica Mctive at Tech and Donald, president of the Ruston chapter, said help bring in new members,” the meeting was to help ac- Hughes said.

He said being a part of quaint people with the advantages and opportunities the organization helped him available through Toastmas- improve his public speaking skills and gave him a great ters.

“Toastmasters is a na- way to network with people tionally renowned organiza- from CenturyLink because tion that allows members to some CenturyLink workers practice and improve their are a part of the Toastmaspublic speaking skills, devel- ters club in Monroe.

“Being a part of Toastop leadership and improve their confidence,” McDon- masters really makes you more valuable to employers ald said.

She said the Ruston because they will see you as

breast cancer but can’t afford treatments,” Tucker said. “It also helps those who haven’t been diagnosed. The money from this event goes toward

grants that will help women get access to free screenings and mammograms.”

Melissa Touchet, a member of the event’s board of directors, said

money from the fundraiser will also be used to educate the community about breast cancer.

“This event is important to the community because it brings awareness about breast cancer and health for women and men,” Touchet said. “We raised much needed funds for mammograms for those who could not otherwise afford them and for education about why getting screened is important.”

Mike Doughty, a 5K participant, said this was his first time participating in a dress dash and thinks that this event is important to the North Louisiana community because of its cause.

“Anything that brings more breast cancer awareness is important,” Doughty said.

Tripp said the fundraiser was not only organized to raise money and support for the Komen Foundation, but also to create a fun event for the Ruston community.

“It’s something that you don’t have to get up really early in the morning for, and it’s a chance for everyone to get together and just have fun,” she said. “It’s a way to have a fun evening in a good environment and at the same time support a good cause.”

SPEAK MAGAZINE

an asset to their company,” Hughes said.

Nakisha Evans, a new member of Toastmasters, said she was informed of the organization by McDonald and then read more about it herself. She said she thought joining the group would be a good way for her to brush up on her communication skills.

“Toastmasters made me look at myself and endeavor to make personal changes within myself and with my peers,” Evans said.

She said if people are looking for a way to enhance themselves and want to push for self-improvement they should join Toastmasters.

“With being a member within this organization, I hope I’m able to overcome the challenge I have with communicating with my siblings and be able to dissolve a problem easily,” Evans said.

McDonald said Toastmasters is helpful because it gave her the opportunity to both lead and learn, which was the beginning of something great for her.

“I see this as a chance for people to be a part of something bigger than themselves where they can work at their own pace,” McDonald said. “Plus being in a team environment could help them build their attitude, character and help them change themselves for a better future.”

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4 • The Tech Talk • April 28, 2016

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FROM THE EDITOR

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Fame as a political platform

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Rachel Maxwell

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B

eyoncé dropped her new visual album, “Lemonade” Saturday. In line with much of her recent work, the album included allusions to topics such as police brutality and feminism.

Piers Morgan criticized the star for using her platform to promote political issues, accusing Beyoncé and other stars of using these movements to sell records and garner fame.

Morgan brings up an interesting debate: should celebrities be using their fame to promote different causes, and can we as consumers of media trust that what we are receiving is sincere, or are stars using social movements to fuel their brand?

I do believe that much of what we get out of Hollywood is manufactured for publicity stunts.

Michael LeBlanc

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S

ecretary of the Treasury Jack Lew recently announced Harriet Tubman would replace Andrew Jackson on the $20 bill by the year 2020.

Naturally, the internet reacted calmly, and everyone was in agreement putting Tubman on the currency would give recognition to an extremely important historical figure.

Oh I’m sorry, what I meant to say is conservative news sources collectively shit their pants at the prospect of taking President Jackson off the $20 bill.

Don’t get me wrong, Jackson is an important historical figure. The Washington Post was right when it published an article saying we can celebrate Tubman without being

DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION AND MEDIA STUDIES JOURNALISM CONCENTRATION

Anthony are just as important as Hamilton and Jackson. They helped expand our country’s protections and liberties to disenfranchised groups.

Why can’t we honor them as well as the old guard?

The new $20 will be a symbol of the highly divisive and multilayered history of our country: On the back, a man who pitied the poor but caused the deaths of thousands of Native Americans, and on the front, an African-American slave liberator who became known as “Moses.”

We’re a nation of dueling sensibilities, and the new currency will represent us well.

John Sadler is a senior journalism and English major from Extension who serves as features editor for The Tech Talk.

Give hockey a chance

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

critical of Jackson.

But the $20 bill is not the only changing denomination; the $10 bill will feature women’s suffrage leaders and the $5 bill will feature Marian Anderson, Eleanor Roosevelt and Martin Luther King, Jr. on the backs. Hamilton and Lincoln will retain top billing, unlike the $20, where Jackson will be placed on the back.

It is interesting the only one of these changes attracting tons of negative attention is the one where the black woman gets top billing.

For the life of me, I’m incapable of understanding why this is an issue.

Our national icons cover our money. Are we so protective of a particular version of history we have no room for recognition of other icons?

Tubman, King and Susan B.

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

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today is past the point where she has to earn or keep her fame. She could burp into a microphone and people would still buy her album. I think this shift in views has more to do with her difference in platform; she can stand for whatever she wants to stand for without fear of losing her fame or fortune. She has a million followers to say whatever she thinks is important to, it makes sense that when that fan base became unshakably secure she would use that voice to support causes she believes in. Whether or not you agree with her beliefs, I don’t think her stances are manufactured to sell, and celebrity status is a completely valid platform for a person to express their beliefs.

JOHN THE ROCKS

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Though we can never know for sure, I don’t think this is necessarily always the case for political stances, especially those taken within the art celebrities produce.

I think that there is at least a shred of honesty in the work these artists produce, if nothing else.

Morgan even brings up the fact that in previous interviews, a younger Beyoncé was sure to stay away from controversial comments, and even said that race was not a factor and that much progress had been made in the way of race relations. Morgan makes the assumption that Beyoncé is now taking a political stance to garner more fame and sell more albums. While there is something to be said for the selling power of controversy, I think it is more likely that a younger Beyoncé was not willing to say anything to polarize her audience and lose her fans. Beyoncé

BLAKE BRANCH News Editor | mbb029@latech.edu

F

ootball will always be king in the South, with baseball and basketball in a distant second place.

However, it’s past time for the South to catch on to the best kept secret in sports, playoff hockey.

The NHL is nearing the conclusion of the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs, and so far the typically riveting sporting spectacle has been true to form.

The defending champions, the Chicago Blackhawks, were eliminated from contention Monday night in Game 7 by the St. Louis Blues in front of a raucous Midwestern crowd.

Anyone tuned in to this game would have a hard time denying the excitement that comes with grown men skating with speed and grace, violent collisions and slapshots finding the back of the net as nearly 20,000 fans roar in applause.

With that said, hockey lingers in the shadows of sports in the South.

It doesn’t take Rhodes Scholar to figure out the reasons why.

Around these parts, the temperature rarely dips below 30 degrees in the winter, whereas in Northern states such as Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota and Massachusetts, conditions are ideal for hockey, not baseball or football, the majority of the calendar year.

To put it simply, kids in those states grow up on frozen ponds dreaming of being Wayne Gretzky and kids in our region grow up in grassy fields with hopes of being the next Peyton Manning or Clayton Kershaw.

One reason for the lack of enthusiasm is the lack of familiarity.

It’s not uncommon for someone to turn on a hockey game and say, “I don’t even know what’s going on.”

It’s honestly not that complicated.

The players are trying to get the puck into the net without getting pulverized by their opponent. The intricacies such as offsides, icing and the strategy behind scoring opportunities ex-

plain themselves if you watch the game, but most will opt for the NBA or MLB if the games are on simultaneously.

Another contributing factor is the lack of local teams to support.

Hockey was played in Shreveport from 1997-2011 with the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs enjoying significant success in the area.

However attendance gradually fell and the Mudbugs were forced to cease operations after bowing out of the playoffs in 2011.

The closest thing to local hockey these days is the NHL’s Dallas Stars. The Stars are one of the NHL’s youngest and most energetic teams, earning a No. 1 seed this year.

This is my plea to sports fans.

If you like the fast pace of basketball, hard-hitting of football and the occasional bare-knuckle brawl, tune in this week. You might like what you see.

Blake Branch is a senior journalism major from Minden who serves as news editor for The Tech Talk.

Cruz, Kasich, and the consequences of collusion W

ith frontrunner Donald Trump closing in on the number of convention delegates needed to secure the Republican Presidential nomination, opposing candidates Ted Cruz and John Kasich announced Sunday that their campaigns will coordinate their efforts in an attempt to block Trump.

The plan for this temporary alliance involves Cruz’s campaign focusing its resources in Indiana, leaving the Kasich campaign to compete in New Mexico and Delaware.

Trump quickly responded on Twitter, mocking his opponents for their inability to beat him while simultaneously calling foul on their “collusion.”

“So they have to team up (collusion) in a two on one,” Trump said in one of his many tweets Sunday.

“Shows weakness!”

In a campaign stop on Monday, Kasich made it clear that this deal was only about dividing up the focus of time and resources, not a mutual endorsement. Voters in Indiana still “ought to vote for me.”

The winner-take-all race in Indiana is seen by many as the most important primary left this year, and a win there by Trump would all but secure his nomination.

With Kasich mathematically removed from any chance of securing the needed delegates and Cruz not far behind, this alliance is viewed by many as the final Hail Mary pass for the #NeverTrump movement.

Most outside of the Trump campaign are not questioning the legality of this political alliance, but rather its effectiveness.

Trump and the populist movement have been trying to draw a contrast between the voice of the “establishment” Republicans and the voice of the actual people. This move by Cruz and Kasich highlights the lengths to which the GOP will go to ensure Trump is not their nominee, despite his large lead in the popular vote.

Many predict the Cruz-Kasich effort will ultimately serve to add more fuel to Trump’s “down with the establishment” fire.

Apart from these concerns, there is also the question of whether this team-up will actually influence Cruz and Kasich voters. Will Kasich supporters in Indiana actually change their votes to Cruz just because Kasich stopped campaigning in their state? Likewise, how likely is it that Cruz supporters in Oregon will suddenly switch to Kasich just because they have not seen Cruz around?

The Republican Party has made it fairly clear that Trump is the last person they want as their nominee, and while there are significant concerns regarding the effectiveness of this Cruz-Kasich strategy, there may simply be no other choice.

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NEWS

April 28, 2016 • The Tech Talk • 5

Spring Dog Dip gives dog owners a deal DILLON NELSON Staff Reporter | djn005@ latech.edu The Louisiana Tech Pre-Veterinary Club held the second of its biannual dog dips last Saturday. Dog owners were able to get their pups a flea dip, a full bath and a nail trimming for $7.

“We absolutely have an amazing passion for people and their animals,” said Kohl Brandon, vice president of the Pre-Veterinary Club “We just love to get out here, get “This is the some people out biggest dog dip here with their dogs I’ve been a part and create a sense of community.” of so far, and Brandon said I love the fact the dog dip is a great opportunity that the dips because the price are always a is cheap relative to most other places. reliable funHe said the price is draising and a big attraction and fellowshipping helps in bringing the people of Ruston source.” together in their love MAGGIE MORGAN of dogs.

“Even though Senior pre-vet major college students know their dogs need grooming, the prices keep them away,” said Brandon, “Our goal is to give Louisiana Tech students a couple of chances a year to take advantage of a really good deal.”

Shawn Trivette, an assistant professor of sociology at Tech, brought his dogs to the dip. He said the event demonstrates that the Pre-Veterinary Club recognizes a larger issue in Ruston.

“There are so many dog owners around Ruston, but there isn’t a whole lot of infrastructure available for them,” Trivette said.“It’s nice to see that there are clubs that see this and want to set up something fun and helpful for them, even if it’s just an event or two here and there.”

Lauren Dartez, a sophomore animal science major, said this event is a good opportunity for students new to the college.

“Unlike the fall quarter dip, the spring quarter is warm enough to where we can actually give them baths,” Dartez said. “This allows everyone who is a pre-vet major to learn all three of the basic tasks of dog grooming.”

Dartez said the dip is one of several events which help pre-vets get to know each other more. She said the money they earn allows them to go on trips ripe with potential for bonding, but it also helps them to scope out the next step in their education.

“This is a major fundraiser that allows us to go on important trips to other schools with pre-vet programs” Dartez said. “On some of these trips we even get to check out actual veterinary schools.”

Maggie Morgan said the dips have always been a success and have always had a high attendance. Morgan, president of the PreVeterinary Club, said this particular dog dip was a bigger success than usual.

“This is the biggest dog dip I’ve been a part of so far, and I love the fact that the dips are always a reliable fundraising and fellowshipping source,” said Morgan, a senior prevet major.

Morgan said the Pre-Vet Club does not generally discriminate, but hopes for only dogs to show up.

“We advertise and try to get all types to come,” Morgan said, “We had some people come who needed some strays properly groomed so they could be taken into their homes.”

Morgan said they have had some odd requests which have ranged from funny to those the club had to refuse.

“We had a hedgehog show up for a wash a couple of quarters ago,” Morgan said. “We even had some people emailing us about some cats needing washes, but we had to refuse because we had a pretty good idea of how a cat would react to being sprayed with a hose.”

Kelsie Field (left), a senior animal science major, and Carla Greenlee (right), a senior animal science major, wash Bear together.

Photos by Avery Bryan

Maggie Morgan (left), a senior animal science major and Lori Winborne (right), a sophomore animal science major, dry Gunther.

Tech Residential Life celebrates Earth Day KEIERA BELL Staff Reporter | klb072@ latech.edu

ers were aware of Earth Day. “I feel like people should have a green thumb because it is important that we are Louisiana Tech’s Residential Life host- aware of everything that goes on within ed an event on April 19 in Adams Parlor our environment,” Minter said. where students could paint a flower pot Cortney Williams, a freshman bioand plant a flower in preparation for Earth chemistry major, said she thought the Day. program was a wonderful way for residen“Erin Minter, Anna Garner and I didn’t tial life to get involved with students on expect it to rain today so we campus for the last quarter of moved the event from Adams the year. porch to inside the parlor and “This event is special to me spread sheets out on the floor,” because I got to connect with Victoria Hardy said. girls from other dorms, and we got to know each other and talk Hardy, a freshman family and about all kinds of things,” Wilchild studies major, said anyone liams said. was invited to the event, but it She said she was an avid was mostly for the residents painter and really likes to finwho lived in the Adams and Asgerpaint, so she could not pass well dorms. She said the event up the opportunity. Williams was special because it gave said the event was an all-around residents a way to customWILLIAMS good idea because they comize a flower pot for their dorm bined a fun activity like painting room and make it feel more like with gardening just to prepare home. for and celebrate Earth Day. “I thought this would be a “I think people should celgreat way to promote healthy ebrate Earth Day because we living and enriching our envilive on this beautiful planet that ronment,” Hardy said. should be celebrated everyday,” Garner, a freshman civil enWilliams said. “So to take one gineering major, said she felt day in our busy schedules and like the program held by her, give back to a planet that gives Hardy and Minter was a big hit so much to us is awesome.” and overall a good way for stuGARNER Hardy said she thinks the dents to celebrate and prepare event is special because she for Earth Day. came from a small town and, as “I would convince others to celebrate Earth Day by making them a freshman, she wanted to get out of her more aware of the environment and con- comfort zone and meet new people. She said this event was exciting and matched scious of how we treat it,” Garner said.

Minter, a freshman chemistry major, Garner, Minter and her expectations.

“Our goal and purpose is to enhance said she agreed with Garner and was happy there were plenty of supplies for community development while getting residents who attended to paint a flower residents to meet new people and parpot. She said it was good some people de- ticipate in a stress-relieving opportunity,” cided to go to their event and hoped oth- Hardy said.

SPEAK MAGAZINE

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6 • The Tech Talk • April 28, 2016

Wesley Foundation hosts creative arts festival STARLA GASTON Staff Reporter| sjg021@ latech.edu Many of Louisiana Tech’s artists came together Saturday to share their talents in the fields of music, short films, poetry, art, culinary skills and photography during the Wesley Foundation’s second annual Creative Arts Festival.

The event featured over 60 entries and gave Tech students an opportunity to freely express themselves with their peers.

The Creative Arts Festival was established last year by Matthew Ramsaur during his time as an intern at the Wesley Foundation.

Ramsaur, a filmmaker, said he began the event to bring all kinds of people together.

“I just wanted a way for people to come together and see all the talent in areas like photography, film and music,” he said. “I wanted a way for people to make connections.”

Caroline Doughty, a Wesley Foundation intern, took over as coordinator for this year’s festival.

“After Matthew Ramsaur started it last year, I decided I wanted to be a part of it,” Doughty said. “I wanted people to have another chance to express themselves and show off all the talents and gifts that God has given them.”

Doughty said she was honored to be a part of the event and see all different kinds of art come to life.

“There are so many different kinds of art and that’s what drew me in,” she said. “It’s a joy to watch how God makes Himself known through gifts and talents.”

Throughout the event, audience members rated each performance or piece from one to five and voted to determine placements in each category.

Haidyn Long, a sophomore general studies student, said she was not only excited to have an opportunity to share an original song with her peers but also see the talents of the other entrants.

“It means a lot to me to get to perform tonight,” Long said. “But I think it’s really cool just to be able to look around and see all the different kinds of art here. I think it’s all so interesting and unique.”

Alana Crump, a second-year graduate student, said she enjoyed the festival because it gave performers an opportunity to step out of their comfort zones and share their talents with the Tech community.

“It’s amazing to see people sharing things that may have been private or had never been shared before,” Crump

Photo by Brian Blakely

In addition to art, food and other creative outlets, the Wesley’s arts festival included music performances by bands such as Jonathan’s People. said. “Just to see all the talents that God has given people is awesome, whether they come out as serious or super fun and silly.”

Crump, who performed an original song with her fiancé during the festival, said though she liked performing, her favorite part of the event was getting to see the other entrants’ art.

“I just do it for fun,” she said. “And I already know what I have to offer, so I really like to see what other people can

do and just watch them have fun.”

Doughty said she believes the event’s purpose was to give artists and attendees the chance to express themselves and feels that this year’s festival was successful in doing so.

“I wanted everyone here to know that they are loved and known,” Doughty said. “They are welcome here and they have the freedom to express themselves through their art.”

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SONY PHOTOGRAPHY AWARDS CHECK OUT THE WINNERS OF 2016’S BIGGEST PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION

DISNEY’S THE JUNGLE BOOK CALEB DANIEL Managing Editor| csd020@latech.edu The current film industry has an obsession with recycling. As a moviegoer, in the face of innumerable remakes, spinoffs and sequels, it can be easy to get burnt out on the familiar.

Disney’s retelling of its classic tale “The Jungle Book” blends fresh storytelling innovation with just the right amount of nostalgia to create a movie experience that reminds us why we get excited about remakes in the first place.

While implementing some of the best elements of the 1967 animated film, director Jon Favreau and screenwriter Justin Marks also hearken back to the original book and flesh out new ideas in equal portion.

The result is a story with more gravity and intensity than before,

but one that nonetheless warms the heart in a way that is unmistakably Disney. “The Jungle Book” tells the story of Mowgli (Neel Sethi), the man-cub raised by wolves, and Shere Khan (Idris Elba), the vengeful tiger bent on ending the young boy’s life. Set in the jungles of India, the film follows Mowgli’s journey of selfdiscovery as he fights to survive.

The balance between inspiration from the book and the classic film begins with Mowgli himself. This iteration is every bit the cheeky and irresponsible child from the animated musical, but also the confident and brave young man of the Rudyard Kipling novel.

Sethi, who trained in parkour to prepare for the role, pulled off both sides of the hero remarkably well, especially considering he was the only human cast member on set. One aspect neither the original film nor the book can rival is the vibrant visual ap-

peal of Favreau’s version of the Indian jungle. CGI-constructed visual effects portray the many animal characters in a way that seems almost real, and yet leaves the viewer with that sense of wonder that only Disney magic can provide. The concept of the “law of the jungle,” upon which the entire novel hinges, is given its proper importance and development, becoming a cornerstone of the film’s emotional center.

Given this less childlike view of how the jungle works, this was bound to be a more serious tale.

The wrath of Shere Khan, assisted by Elba’s chilling voice acting, produces several suspenseful and intense moments.

The story’s other important characters are depicted in a nearperfect blend of old and new influences.

Bill Murray’s Baloo the bear is no Phil Harris, but he exudes a similar sort of world-wise hu-

ASGHAR KHAMSEH L’IRIS D’OR PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR

Walt Disney Pictures

mor breaking up the film’s quickpaced, heart-pounding action.

The movie’s two side-villains turned out to be some of the most refreshing and innovative changes.

Scarlett Johansson lends a seductively hypnotic voice to the previously male python Kaa, and Mowgli can hardly be blamed for falling under her spell. Formerly a silly and fairly harmless orangutan, Louie (Christopher Walken) is now a menacing “gigantopithecus” with the mannerisms of an Italian mobster and a girth to rival King Kong. Walken’s take on Louie rivals even Shere Khan as a compelling antagonist.

The movie’s wrap-up is fairly predictable, but naturally happens with remakes. Disney’s new take contains all the bare necessities (including that song) from the original movie and novel, still taking enough direction to fascinate old and young alike.

THE IRANIAN PHOTOJOURNALIST WON FOR HIS PORTRAITS OF ACID ATTACK VICTIMS.

KEI NOMIYANA OPEN PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR THE JAPANESE PHOTOGRAPHER’S PIECE “ENCHANTED BAMBOO FOREST” DISPLAYS A SWARM OF FIREFLIES.

RONGRONG & INRI OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION THE ARTIST AND PHOTOGRAPHER DUO WON FOR THEIR VISUALIZATION OF CHINESE CULTURE.

A&E

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April 28, 2016 • The Tech Talk • 7

A&E OPINION

Wynnifred Sanders

The doves are flyin’ high

BEYONCE

E

“LEMONADE”

Photos courtesy of Columbia Parkwood 2016

ELLIE MOSLANDER Entertainment editor | emo012@ latech.edu This weekend with the surprise release of Beyonce’s newest visual album “Lemonade,” the queen B has only gotten bolder, yet makes herself more vulnerable than ever and gives listeners a very real look into her life.

The album features artists The Weeknd, Jack White and Kendrick Lamar all adding contrast.

“Lemonade” comes from Beyonce’s song with Lamar “Freedom,” where at the end a woman’s voice is heard saying, “I was served lemons, but made lemonade instead.”

Each song shows how she did not let a devastating time destroy her, but made her stronger and instead she simply “made lemonade.”

“Lemonade” is about a marriage broken, split right open for all to see. Jay-Z and throughout it consistently hints at an affair he has or had in the past.

It is also about her growth as a woman, connecting to her Creole roots by referencing Louisiana and the South. Her motherhood is also referenced, as her daughter, Blue Ivy, is featured at the end of “Daddy Lessons” and in the video playing with her grandfather.

Beyonce has always portrayed herself as very strong, bold and independent, but in “Lemonade” she makes this statement in a dif-

ferent way. Through the 12-track album and video pairings to each song, she is able to portray these lyrics in a visual way.

This made the album even stronger and has proven Beyonce is always striving for new forms of artistic expression.

She leaves herself vulnerable and open, but this only makes her human and proves even the most popular, admired and successful women can be hurt by the man she loves.

She starts off the album with “Pray You Catch Me,” which is a soft introduction, but is the beginning of her exposing her feelings to not only the audience of the world, but also the husband who cheated on her.

In “Hold Up,” she calls Jay-Z out, but chants “they don’t love you like I love you” as she wants him to know she is his wife and this carries a love no one else can give him the way she does.

Her third song “Don’t Hurt Yourself ” is a sassy, sarcastic way of throwing him the finger.

In this song Beyonce makes the statement that she is a woman who has been hurt by a man, but she is also Beyonce, a music goddess as she says, “you’re not married to some average bitch.”

Track four is one of the sadder songs on the album as she talks about the effects cheating has on a person, bringing up feelings of wanting to leave her husband, but she says she would commit sui-

A$AP FERG JOHN SADLER Features editor| jts040@latech.edu The Trap Lord is back.

A$AP Ferg has always been the weirdo of A$AP Mob, running parallel, but perpendicular to A$AP Mob’s other greats like the gone-toosoon A$AP Yams and the high-fashion A$AP Rocky.

Ferg has eschewed the standard formula of rap collectives. While Odd Future’s simultaneous rise gave birth to the stardom of Tyler, The Creator, other members Frank Ocean and Earl Sweatshirt had to distance themselves from the group to achieve individual success.

Ferg has somehow avoided this, climbing to fame alongside A$AP Mob “leader” A$AP Rocky, and arguably creating a more individualistic personality for his career.

Ferg’s first album, the appropriately titled “Trap Lord,” was an appropriately titled debut.

Ferg’s ridiculous flexing and trap-based musicality separated himself from the rest of A$AP Mob. “Always Strive and Prosper” is simultaneously an extension and reversal of his previous album’s themes. In the album’s opener “Rebirth,” he raps “Now that you’re no longer a lord that’s trapped/ You have graduated to the Hood Pope.”

Ferg’s previous boats have come true, and

A still shot from Beyonce’s visual album highlights southern culture. . cide before he ever saw her cry about it.

“Daddy Lessons,” talks about the influence her father had on her as he taught her about how men should treat women. She says,” daddy warned me about men like you.”

In track seven she tells Jay-Z, “if I wasn’t B would you still feel me?” She questions their marriage and even herself, because the affair has made her wonder if he only wants her for her name and success.

“Freedom,” is very powerful as it references back to times of slavery and hardship. But through

this song Beyonce shows the world how African Americans were dealt a poor hand, but did not allow this to tear them down but only made them stronger.

The album ends with the powerful and most popular song “Formation,” where Beyonce encourages women to be strong and powerful, because they are no matter what.

After listening to this album, one can only leave wanting to aspire to be more, be proud of who they are and embrace the various situations life gives, whether good or bad. All I can say is: Ladies, now let’s get in formation.

“ALWAYS STRIVE AND PROSPER” now he’s returned to act as a sort of savior, a “hood pope” to preach the truth of opportunity to the downtrodden masses.

“Always Strive and Prosper” is an album heavily influenced by late 90s to early 2000s hip-hop. The third track on the album, “Strive,” is a heavy 90s house-revival with Missy Elliot herself as one of the standout features on the album.

The track is solid, and contains a message from both Ferg and Missy about the availability of opportunities and the lack of drive inherent in today’s generation.

The majority of the features on the album work well. Schoolboy Q’s verse on “Let it Bang” plays to his strengths, namely the repetitive gangsta rap for which he’s well-known. Future also works well on “New Level,” one of the album’s most obvious radio hits, The posse cut “Yammy’s Gang” comes across well. While Rocky’s cut overshadows contributions from the rest of the gang, the song gives the lesser-known members of A$AP Mob their place to shine.

The tracks “Swipe Life” and “Uzi Gang” are also songs likely to receive serious radio play.

When Ferg wants to make bangers, he can make bangers.

Other features on the album work less well.

Chris Brown’s feature on “I Love Yo” is uninspired, and just goes to show the way Breezy

RCA Records

pulls down all of the songs he sings on down to mid-2000s R’n’B (for another example: see Kanye West’s “Waves”). Ty Dolla $ign is also featured on the song, but comes across lackluster.

The album’s highs are stellar, but its lows are remarkably forgettable. When Ferg is working with his 90s-inspired beats, he seems to shine, but a number of tracks on the album, such as “Psycho” and “Grandma,” seem uninspired.

Nevertheless, the album is worth a listen, if only for its highs. Ferg has done an excellent job with changing up the thematic elements of his songs from “Trap Lord.”

It is evident Ferg has adopted his new role as A$AP Mob’s positive rapper-philosopher, the team’s emotional guru.

The Hood Pope is back.

veryone remembers the first time they heard a song on the radio or watched a music video, and they knew they would never forget that moment or that artist.

I remember the first time I heard “Purple Rain, I was in the car with my dad on the way to school, as he sang my dad joined in like they were on the record together.

After it was over he told me about how everybody who loves music, loves Prince.

He was right.

Prince like so many others left that feeling in people’s hearts. One of those people being me.

In the wake of Prince’s tragic and untimely death last Thursday — we see the world mourn together in a way that hasn’t been displayed since the 2009 death of Michael Jackson and the 2012 passing of Whitney Houston.

Unlike, the King and Queen of Pop — the “Prince” left an undeniable mark not only with his music but with his actions.

He unequivocally made it his mission to fight for the right to own his music ,because it was his way to connect with the people, not the record company.

And connect with the people he did — by watching his performances it was clear that he felt comfortable with who he was and he unintentionally taught people to feel the same way about themselves.

He showed us through his life that even with frailties, our souls yearn for individuality, sensuality, and greatness.

How can we not listen to “Kiss,” “Little Red Corvette,” or watch the 2007 Super Bowl Halftime Show and not be in awe of the musical genius in this five-foot-two-inch man in high heels?

He is and will forever be one of the greats for past, present, and future generations.

Even though this generation wasn’t born when he coined the iconic hit, “Purple Rain” in 1984 we still bask in the joy of this unforgettable melody.

We also still party like its “1999” because like older generations we too feel like “Beautiful Ones.”

Prince said he didn’t mean to cause us any sorrow or pain.

He did and that still wont go away but we’ll be okay because we know that doves are crying in the “Purple Rain.”

Wynnifred Sanders is a law student at George Mason University from Shreveport who served as multimedia editor for the Tech Talk during her undergraduate career at Louisiana Tech.

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8 • The Tech Talk • April 28, 2016

W&NBRIEFS WORLDNEWS Ohio man: ‘I just shot my wife’ CINCINNATI (AP) — A suburban Cincinnati man was held on $3 million bond Tuesday on a murder charge, the day after calmly calling 911 to confess he’d killed his wife, and to say that he wasn’t a threat and would be awaiting police on his front stoop.

Clinton and Trump sweep PHILADELPHIA (AP) — In a front-runner’s rout, Republican Donald Trump roared to victory Tuesday in five contests across the Northeast, keeping the billionaire firmly on his narrow path to the GOP nomination. Hillary Clinton was dominant in a trio of Democratic races, ceding only Rhode Island to rival Bernie Sanders, with Connecticut too close to call.

Prince had no known will MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Prince’s sister believes the superstar musician didn’t have a will and asked a Minnesota court on Tuesday to appoint a trust company to temporarily oversee his multimillion-dollar estate.

STATENEWS ‘Ban the box’ bill passes La. House BATON ROUGE (AP) — State representatives cheered as a bid to block state employers from asking about job applicants’ criminal histories before interviews cleared the Louisiana House.

Foul play suspected in teenager’s death BATON ROUGE (AP) — A proposal that would allow gay couples and other unmarried couples to adopt children together in Louisiana has been defeated 9-2 by a House committee Tuesday.

Trial delayed for La. sheriff charged in inmate beatings LAFAYETTE, (AP) — A federal judge has postponed a trial for a Louisiana sheriff charged with ordering inmates to be beaten in retaliation for a lewd comment and complaints about jail conditions.

N. Korea almost completes nuclear test prep ASSOCIATED PRESS SEOUL, South Korea — South Korea’s president said Tuesday that North Korea has almost completed preparations for a fifth nuclear test, and the country has reportedly placed a new midrange missile on standby for an impending launch.

North Korea said two days ago it had successfully test-fired a ballistic missile from a submarine in a continuation of its weapons tests during ongoing South Korea-U.S. military drills. Seoul officials said they could not confirm whether Saturday’s testfiring was a success.

Meeting with senior South Korean journalists, President Park Geun-hye said South Korea believes North Korea can conduct a nuclear test anytime it decides to do so. She didn’t elaborate on why South Korea made such an assessment.

Other South Korean officials have made similar recent comments without elaborating amid media reports of increased activity at the country’s main nuclear test site. Park said last week there were signs North Korea was preparing for a new nuclear test.

Speculation about a fifth nuclear test increased last month when the North’s state media cited leader Kim Jong Un as ordering a test of a nuclear warhead and ballistic missiles capa-

AP/Lee Jin-man

A North Korean defector throws a balloon containing a colored liquid against portraits of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during a rally against North Korea in Seoul, South Korea, on Tuesday. The rally is a part of an annual event called North Korea Freedom Week which is held from April 24-30. ble of carrying warheads.

North Korea conducted a fourth nuclear test in January and a long-range rocket launch in February, and the country was subsequently slapped with tough U.N. sanctions. Park said Tuesday a further provocation by North Korea would only speed up its collapse, according to her office.

The United States in recent years has deployed additional missile defense technology to the region

to counter North Korean threats and is in talks with Seoul about deploying the Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense, or THAAD, system to the country.

President Barack Obama, in a CBS News interview released Tuesday, said the goal of the stepped-up U.S. efforts is to create a “shield” against the North.

“One of the things that we have been doing is spending a lot more time positioning our missile defense systems, so that

even as we try to resolve the underlying problem of nuclear development inside of North Korea, we’re also setting up a shield that can at least block the relatively low-level threats that they’re posing right now,” Obama said.

White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest was asked about the comments and said the U.S. would “continue to ramp up the pressure on the North Korean regime.”

“We’re going to con-

tinue to work closely with the Chinese government, which has more influence with the North Korean government than any other country in the world and we’re going to continue to make clear that the path that North Korea must choose to rejoin the international community is one that involves them committing to denuclearize the Korean peninsula and come into compliance with their international obligations,” Earnest said.

Johnny Manziel indicted in alleged attack on ex-girlfriend ASSOCIATED PRESS DALLAS — An attorney for former Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel calls the indictment against him “incredible” and said Tuesday that the way it’s been handled so far suggests there are problems with the case.

Manziel was indicted Tuesday on allegations by ex-girlfriend Colleen Crowley that he hit her and threatened to kill her in late January. Crowley said in court documents that Manziel struck her so hard that she temporarily lost hearing in one ear, and the indictment accuses him “forcing (her) into a vehicle and against a vehicle dashboard.”

Manziel faces a charge of misdemeanor assault related to family violence, which carries up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine.

Manziel’s attorneys said Tuesday that their client will plead not guilty.

One of the attorneys, Robert Hinton, told The Associated Press that he thought police and prosecutors had treated the case as though they didn’t want it to go forward. Lawyers who aren’t involved in the case have noted that Dallas police chose to refer their case to a grand jury rather

AP/Scott Eklund

Former Cleveland Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel was indicted by a grand jury on April 26, 2016, on misdemeanor charges stemming from a domestic violence complaint by his ex-girlfriend. than arrest Manziel outright, which is unusual for misdemeanor cases.

“If this were Johnny Smith, the district attorney’s office would have declined to accept the case, in my judgment,” Hinton said in a phone interview Tuesday.

“This is not a very credible case. As a matter of fact, it’s

incredible. There’s just not much to it.”

Hinton said he did not anticipate making a deal to end the case before trial, though he said talks of any deal were premature.

Manziel is in Los Angeles, but is expected to present himself for booking Thursday or Friday, once the

case is formally assigned to a judge and bond is set, Hinton said.

“He’s got a great attitude,” he said. “He’s ready to face it and do what we need to do to defend him.”

Dallas County District Attorney Susan Hawk said in a statement Tuesday that prosecutors “respect the

criminal justice process and the decision” by the grand jury. A spokeswoman for Hawk declined to comment further.

Crowley has already been granted a protective order that requires Manziel to not see her for two years, stay at least 500 feet from her home and place of work and pay $12,000 in legal fees.

Manziel was cut by the Browns in March after two tumultuous seasons marked by inconsistent play and offthe-field headlines about his partying and drinking, including one stint in rehab.

His future in the NFL is uncertain at best, and might be nonexistent without a second stint in treatment that two agents have demanded.

The league also has tougher standards regarding domestic violence cases after revising its policy in August 2014 following the Ray Rice case, which could complicate any attempt by Manziel to return.

The allegations stem from a night out on Jan. 30.

Crowley alleged Manziel accosted her at a Dallas hotel, a confrontation that eventually continued downstairs to the valet station. She said he forced her into a car and a valet disregarded her pleas for help.

W&N

www.thetechtalk.org

April 28, 2016 • The Tech Talk • 9

Police involved in texting scandal ASSOCIATED PRESS

SAN FRANCISCO — A beleaguered San Francisco Police Department took another hit to its tarnished image Tuesday with the release of racist and homophobic text messages allegedly exchanged among officers.

The city’s public defender released transcripts of the offensive texts, which emerged during a rape investigation of a former officer. The messages belittle blacks, Latinos and Indians and insult President Barack Obama and NBA superstar LeBron James, among many other disparaging conversations.

It’s the second such text messaging scandal to shake the department since it was disclosed in late 2014 that a group of officers exchanged racist and homophobic text messages in an unrelated case.

The current texting scandal began last year when a woman accused Jason Lai of rape after night of heavy drinking. Lai was a patrol officer at the time.

He resigned earlier this month.

The San Francisco district attorney said in March there wasn’t enough evidence to charge Lai with rape, but the former officer was charged with misdemeanors for illegally accessing driving and criminal records.

The offensive text mes-

sages were found on Lai’s personal cellphone, which was seized as part of the investigation. The text messages found on the phone were sent to colleagues in 2014 and 2015.

“Indian ppl are disgusting,” one text reads.

Other texts use a slur to describe Mexican people A text stating “burn down Walgreens and kill the bums” was also found on Lai’s phone.

The text messages were released by Public Defender Jeff Adachi, who is representing a defendant in a case involving Lai. “This isn’t a slip of the tongue,” Adachi said. “This is a person who is fully committed to expressing his bias to his friends.”

The names of the other officers on the receiving end of many of the texts were redacted. Adachi says his office is reviewing 207 criminal cases Lai helped investigate.

Lai’s attorney Don Nobles didn’t immediately return a phone call.

The text messages also said the sender hates James of the Cleveland Cavaliers, calling the basketball player the “n’’ word. A Cantonese slur for black people was used several times last year while describing a shooting and ridiculed a suspect who sustained gunshot wounds.

“Too bad none of them died,” Lai texted. “One less to worry about.”

Lai allegedly texted a

AP/Eric Risberg

San Francisco police Chief Greg Suhr speaks during a town hall meeting to provide the Mission District neighborhood with an update on the investigation of an officer involved shooting in San Francisco. San Francisco’s public defender released text messages Tuesday,, written by former officer Jason Lai, disparaging blacks, Latinos and others. colleague during a night of civil unrest in Baltimore after Freddie Gray, a black man, died after his neck was broken in the back of a police van.

“They’re like a pack (of) wild animals on the loose,” the text said of blacks protesting Gray’s death.

The latest texting scandal comes amid the department’s attempts to repair frayed relationships with many of the city’s black residents and others angered by the previous round of inappropriate messages exchanged among officers.

The department’s com-

munity relations worsened after officers fatally shot two knife-wielding minority suspects in the last two months.

Chief Greg Suhr has said he will not heed calls to resign and is working to overhaul the department’s use-of-force policies. May-

or Ed Lee said he supports the chief ’s reform efforts, which include calling in the U.S. Department of Justice to review the Police Department’s policy and procedures.

Suhr scheduled a press conference later Tuesday to address the latest scandal.

Philippine troops hunt extremists who beheaded Canadian ASSOCIATED PRESS MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine military came under increased pressure Tuesday to rescue more than 20 foreign hostages after their Muslim extremist captors beheaded a Canadian man, but troops face a dilemma in how to succeed without endangering the remaining captives.

Abu Sayyaf gunmen beheaded John Ridsdel on Monday in the southern province of Sulu, spark-

ing condemnations and prompting Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to pledge to help the Philippines pursue the extremists behind the “heinous act.”

“Canada condemns without reservation the brutality of the hostage takers and this unnecessary death,” Trudeau told reporters. “This was an act of cold-blooded murder and responsibility rests squarely with the terrorist group who took him hostage.”

Trudeau said he spoke

earlier with President Benigno Aquino III. “The discussions I had with President Aquino and are continuing to have with our allies in the Philippines is the need to bring these criminals to justice and to do whatever we can to express that we are very concerned about security of Canadians, but at the same time, we will not pay a ransom,” Trudeau said.

Ridsdel’s head, which was placed in a plastic bag, was dumped by motorcy-

Militant Video via AP Video

This image made from an undated militant video, shows Canadians John Ridsdel, right, and Robert Hall. Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau confirmed that the decapitated head of a Caucasian male recovered Monday in the southern Philippines belongs to Ridsdel, who was taken hostage by Abu Sayyaf militants in September 2015.

cle-riding militants Monday night in Jolo town in impoverished Sulu, a densely forested province about 950 kilometers (590 miles) south of Manila, where the Abu Sayyaf and allied gunmen are believed to be holding 22 foreign hostages from six Western and Asian countries.

It’s a politically sensitive time for troops to carry out major offensives, at the height of campaigning in a closely fought race among four contenders in the May 9 presidential election. President Aquino and opposition politicians have had differences over the handling of the Muslim insurgency and the social ills that foster it.

“The pressure on the armed forces is really immense,” said Julkipli Wadi, who has conducted extensive studies on the Muslim secessionist conflict in the south.

The underfunded military has to contend with escalating territorial disputes in the South China Sea while dealing with Muslim and Marxist rebellions that have endured through several presidencies, fueled by the poverty, neglect and desperation that have not been tamed by political leaders, Wadi said.

A large-scale offensive could displace many villagers and draw attention to the longstanding security and social issues in the voterich south, homeland of mi-

nority Muslims in the largely Roman Catholic nation.

That could play to the advantage of Rodrigo Duterte, the tough-talking city mayor from the south who has emerged as the front-runner in the presidential race with a lofty promise to end crime in six months and restore law and order.

Aquino has endorsed another candidate, Mar Roxas, whose platform focuses on continuing the president’s anti-corruption drive and economic reforms. All the presidential candidates condemned the beheading.

The Philippine military and police said “there will be no letup” in the effort to combat the militants and find the hostages, even though they have had little success in safely securing their freedom. Many hostages were believed to have been released after huge ransom payments.

“The full force of the law will be used to bring these criminals to justice,” they said in a joint statement.

About 2,000 military personnel, backed by Bell UH-1 “Huey” and MG520 rocket-firing helicopters and artillery, are involved in the manhunt for the militants, who are believed to be massing in Sulu’s mountainous Patikul town, military officials said.

While under pressure to produce results, government troops have been ordered to carry out assaults

without endangering the remaining hostages, including in the use of airstrikes and artillery fire, a combat officer told The Associated Press by cellphone from Sulu. He spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk to reporters.

Amid the offensive, Brig. Gen. Alan Arrojado resigned Tuesday in Sulu as commander of an army brigade “due to conflict of approach in addressing the Abu Sayyaf threats” in the province. Arrojado did not elaborate.

In past militant videos posted online, Ridsdel and fellow Canadian Robert Hall, Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad and Filipino Marites Flor were shown sitting in a clearing with heavily armed militants standing behind them. In some of the videos, a militant aimed a long knife at Ridsdel’s neck as he pleaded for his life.

Two black flags with Islamic State group-like markings hung in the backdrop of lush foliage.

The four were seized from a marina on southern Samal Island and taken by boat to Sulu, where Abu Sayyaf gunmen continue to hold several captives, including a Dutch bird watcher who was kidnapped more than three years ago, and Indonesian and Malaysian crewmen who were snatched recently from three tugboats.

www.thetechtalk.org

10 • The Tech Talk • April 28, 2016

WEEKLYHOROSCOPE www.horoscopes.com.net

Aries March 21 – April 19 Today doubts, uncertainties, and insecurities could plague a love relationship, Aries. Does your beloved share your passion? Is your friend being honest and open with you? Does this relationship have a future?

The only way to get past this inner turmoil is to take one step at a time and take a good long look at the results of each step. Only in this way will your doubts be resolved one way or the other.

Taurus Apr 20 - May 20 A member of your household could be going through some rough times, Taurus, and as a result might become overly dependent on your moral and emotional support. This is flattering, but it could also be a drain on your energy. Carefully consider what you really need to say to your friend. Sometimes you have to hit a person over the head with the truth (figuratively speaking) in order to wake them up.

Gemini May 21 - Jun 20 Some blatantly untrue gossip could reach you today, Gemini. When you think about it, you’ll see that what you heard defies all logic and is actually rather ludicrous. However, the person who reports it to you could be so dynamic and persuasive that you believe it for a little while. Remember to check the facts in such situations. You’ll stay grounded in reality rather than get caught up in fantasy.

Cancer Jun 21 - Jul 22 Cancer, today you could feel the need to work on your finances - pay bills, make deposits, and plan a budget for next month - but your heart won’t be in it.

Your mind is probably on more interesting projects.

If you try to force it, you’ll be unable to concentrate, so it could be a waste of time. It won’t hurt if you wait a few days. You should be in a more practical space by then.

Leo Jul 23 - Aug 22 Usually, Leo, you have pretty good powers of focus and concentration. However, today you might find that these powers are flagging. Working could be difficult, and you could even find yourself dwelling on disappointments from your past. You might want to stop and try to figure out why these memories are coming up now. Releasing them could reset your concentration back to normal.

Virgo Aug 23 - Sep 22 A strange person promoting him- or herself as a mind-reader of sorts could come onto the scene today, Virgo. This person, however, is more mixed up than mindful. Therefore, take any predictions with a grain of salt, if not the whole shaker. Chances are good that none of them have any basis in reality. Trust your

intuition. Your insights should be far more dependable than those of the so-called psychic.

Libra Sep 23 - Oct 22 Your financial goals could seem vague and uncertain at this time, Libra. Perhaps you face a crossroads in your life as far as income goes, and you might not be sure which way to go. Or else you could be planning to make some purchases and have a hard time deciding which are most important. This probably isn’t the day to try to make any kind of decision. Wait a day or two.

Scorpio Oct 23 - Nov 21 A colleague’s motives could seem rather sinister today, Scorpio. This person has a definite agenda of his or her own that may not take into account the needs or feelings of anyone who could conceivably stand in the way. This person isn’t to be trusted. Don’t excuse his or her behavior. The best course of action now is to stay out of the way and protect yourself on all levels.

Sagittarius Nov 22 - Dec 21 Today doubts may crop up for you concerning certain spiritual concepts that you’ve embraced for a long time, Sagittarius. Don’t let this cause a crisis. It could just be a normal part of your inner growth. Instead, go back and read the old books that got you started, and then read some new ones and try to view the ideas from your current perspective. You could find they aren’t so doubtful after all.

Capricorn Dec 22 - Jan 19 Some disturbing dreams could bring up doubts you may have about the motives of someone you consider a friend, Capricorn. This person might have been acting strangely, and you could be wondering about the future of your friendship. It’s important to look at the symbols in the dreams and try to analyze what they’re telling you. They might be indicating your friend, you, or both. Think about it!

Aquarius Jan 20 - Feb 18 Some underhanded and not altogether honest machinations could be happening at the workplace, Aquarius. You could be offended by it, and you could also worry if it threatens your job. Then you might also consider what you’re doing there, if it’s that sort of organization. These inner conflicts could signify the need to focus on the realities and discern exactly what you want to do. Then go for it.

CROSSWORDPUZZLE Across 1- Declare earnestly; 11- Savoir- faire; 15- Verse of four feet; 16- Get an ___ effort; 17- Lacking a body cavity; 18- Hint; 19- Silent; 20- Ike’s WWII command; 21- Primitive form of wheat; 23- Caesar’s wings; 25- Big time; 27- As ___ resort; 28- “Of course!”; 30- Larval stage of a lamprey; 33- Rudner and Moreno; 35- Shopaholic’s delight; 36- ___ del Sol; 38- Emerson’s middle name; 41- Missile holder; 43- Plant life; 45- Replant trees; 49- Surrealist Max; 51- Photo finish?; 52- Trauma ctrs.; 54- Benefit; 55- Open dish; 58- ___ Lingus; 60- West of Hollywood; 61- Fertility goddess of Egypt; 62- Becoming swollen; 65- Feminist Lucretia; 66- Admission; 67- One-named singer; 68- Hostile meeting; Down 1- Cossack chief; 2- Worldly; 3-Pertaining to the mouth;

www.bestcrosswords.com 4-Bard’s preposition; 5- Low-lying region; 6- Engage in histrionics; 7- Sucking fish; 8- One ___ time; 9- Mal de ___; 10- ...___ saw Elba; 11- Equipment for fishing; 12- Financially solvent; 13- Direction taken; 14- Lott of Mississippi; 22- Balloon car; 24- Prefix with plasm; 26- Early hrs.; 29- Cushion for kneeling; 31- Big mouth; 32- Lemony Snicket’s evil count; 34- Recipe word; 37- Ginger ___; 39- Actress Diana; 40- Embellishment; 42- Sweet suffix; 44- Obliquely; 45- Logic; 46- Animosity; 47- Festival; 48- Calamitous; 50- Move unsteadily; 51- Dirt; 53- Look after; 56- ___-Tass (Russian news agency); 57- Au naturel; 59- Queue after Q; 63- LBJ’s successor; 64- Able to;

DAILY U

LAST ISSUE’S SOLUTION

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

Pisces Feb 19 - Mar 20 Today you might feel a little out of sorts, Pisces, and your concentration could be diminished. You might even have a little trouble focusing on your work.

Don’t worry about it. It’s more mental than anything else, and it will pass. You might feel the need to drink coffee all day to stay alert. Try to exercise some restraint on this, since it could be counterproductive.

Hang in there.

WEEKLYWEATHER

www.accuweather.com

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

HIGH 88 LOW 67

HIGH 81 LOW 69

HIGH 78 LOW 63

HIGH 86 LOW 59

HIGH 83 LOW 58

HIGH 74 LOW 57

HIGH 76 LOW 54

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

NAMI from page 1

>

Christopher Forrester, a junior chemistry major and public relations officer for NAMI, said he noticed a pleasant difference between the two events while he was making plans for them.

“I don’t think it was intentional, but I think we could definitely put emphasis on the contrast between the two events in the future,” Forester said, “The vigil is more solemn, peaceful, and more expressive while the walk is more active and kind of like we’re reaching out.”

After the walk, attendees had the opportunity to write the name of someone lost to suicide on a balloon. They then walked over to the seal and released them in unison.

“It’s a symbolic way to show respect to them and release the emotional turmoil that might be pent up inside”, Forester said, “It’s a cathartic sort of deal where you just write a name and let your pain float away.”

Photo by Ashley Kober

NAMI members lead a suicide prevention walk through the quad.

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

www.thetechtalk.org

April 28, 2016 • The Tech Talk • 11

More Talk

Christine Strebeck shows the possible answer to one of the questions during the quizbowl/ puppet show.

Celebrating Shakespeare’s

400

th

Sigma Tau Delta holds its annual Shakespeare celebration on the 400th anniversary of his death AMBER HARRINGTON | Staff Reporter | anh038@latech.edu

I

n the study of English lit- French, English and Spanish erature, William Shake- and a keynote speaker. Some speare has been widely re- Tech students were even givgarded as one of the most en the opportunity to present influential playwrights of his their Shakespearean essays time. throughout the day.

On April 20, the The keynote Louisiana Tech Rho speaker, Ernest RuGamma chapter of fleth, is an assistant Sigma Tau Delta professor of Lithosted their 10th anerature at the uninual “Shakespeare versity. His speech Day” to recognize was followe d by a the 400th anniverpaper presentation sary of his death.

by Taylor Parker, The day also marked an undergraduate what many histoEnglish major. rians believe to be Parker’s paper LEVIN Shakespeare’s 452nd was titled “Do as birthday.

Men Do: Women at “Shakespeare “Home” in ShakeDay is about bringspeare.” According awareness to ing to a statement not only the English released by the department, but also Honors Society, the the rest of campus,” piece had previsaid Sigma Tau Delously won second ta’s president, Amplace in “The Bard ber Jurgensen. “The Award,” an award thing is, everyone category for Shakeknows Shakespeare, spearian papers JURGENSON whether it be from created this year to film, music, or televicommemorate the sion — he is in some 400th anniversary way involved in everyone’s of Shakespeare’ death. life.”

Scott Levin, assistant proThe daylong celebration fessor of English and co-adwas held in the Shakespeare viser of the Honor Society, Garden, the courtyard of said Shakespeare Day was a George T. Madison Hall. great way to bring the various The festival consisted of departments in the College twelve events which honored of Liberal Arts together while the late dramatist, including also illustrating Shakespeare’s a puppet show, a sword fight, lasting influence on modern several plays, award presenta- life. tions, the reading of sonnets in “Shakespeare is the perfect

symbol for what happened here today,” Levin said. “The English, History, Language, and Theatre departments all pulled together to create something for everyone to enjoy. That’s what Shakespeare did too.”

Anahy Hernandez, a senior English major, said Shakespeare Day is an extremely important event for English majors as it is a way to share knowledge with their friends.

“William Shakespeare is a landmark person in history,” she said. “A lot of pop culture is influenced by him, so on a day like this we can all kind of get involved and share what we know.”

Jurgensen said Shakespeare Day would not be possible without the support from the community and other Tech students.

“We appreciate how much everyone get’s involved,” she said. “We all help out to make this happen each year.”

www.thetechtalk.org

12 • The Tech Talk • April 28, 2016

2016 NFL DRAFT PREVIEW Former Bulldogs prepare to make the jump to the pros MATTHEW VALCHO Sports Editor | mvv002@latech.edu The 2016 National Football League player selection meeting, more commonly known as the NFL draft, begins tonight and will run through Saturday. Players from across college football will be hoping to hear their name called at the podium in Chicago, including a number of former Bulldogs.

A number of former Tech players will be among those looking to have their NFL dreams realized. Three in particular, Vernon Butler, Kenneth Dixon and Jeff Driskel, are projected to go in the first five rounds with a few others expected to go in the later rounds or sign with teams after the draft.

Defensive tackle Vernon Butler was invited to attend the draft in Chicago, an honor reserved for those expected to go be drafted in the first round or very soon after.

Butler has been up and down draft boards since his Senior Bowl performance raised his stock. ESPN draft expert Mel Kiper Jr. was quoted calling him a “beast” and fellow ESPN draft insider Todd McShay called him “an absolute monster of a man.”

NFL.com’s Senior Media Analyst Gil Brandt labeled him as “one of the most underrated defensive prospects” in a draft loaded with defensive players.

“He’s an athletic interior lineman with long arms and outstanding athleticism that allows him to work on offensive linemen with a combination of power and quickness,” said Lance Zierlein of NFL.com.

Zierlein wrote evaluations of all three Tech players. “Butler has a raw but diverse skillset as a pass rusher that should excite NFL evaluators who see the potential of what he can be with more coaching and experience.”

Running back Kenneth Dixon has been labeled a sleeper by many and is projected to go in the second or third rounds and is ranked by ESPN as the third best running

back in the draft. Dixon is also featured on the ESPN show “Hey Rookie! Welcome to the NFL,” a series following the pre and post draft lives of college players looking to make it in the pros.

“He is a highly-determined runner with a strong desire to compete through the whistle on every snap,” Zierlein said in his profile. “Dixon possesses outstanding feet with exciting suddenness in his change of direction, but he’s very willing to finish his runs with authority and has a knack for finding the endzone.”

Quarterback Jeff Driskel looks to continue his successful career turnaround after coming to Tech as a graduate transfer last season from the University of Florida. After a lackluster first four years with the Gators and a revolving door of offensive coordinators, Driskel put himself on the radar of NFL teams when he threw for more than 4,000 yards with 28 touchdowns and only four interceptions in his one season in Ruston.

At the NFL combine, Driskel finished with the best time in the 40 yard dash and the longest broad jump among QBs. In Driskel’s draft profile, Zierlein said he has the potential and upside to be a good quarterback with some work.

“Driskel still has the size, arm strength and athleticism that made him the top-rated quarterback coming out of high school, but he hasn’t experienced enough growth at the position due to his rocky path to the draft,” Zierlein said.

“He’s not where he needs to be yet, but with his upside and traits, Driskel is worthy of a day three selection and could yield dividends with patience and coaching.”

He is projected to be taken late in the draft between rounds five and seven.

In a draft labeled by many as one of the deepest in recent memory, it will be interesting to see where the three former Bulldogs call home next.

VERNON BUTLER DEFENSIVE TACKLE

POSITION RANKING: ESPN - No. 6 CBS Sports - No. 5

• • • •

Height: 6’4” Arm Length: 35 1/8” Weight: 323 lbs Hands: 10 3/4”

KENNETH DIXON RUNNING BACK

POSITION RANKING: ESPN - No. 3 NFL.com - No. 4

• • • •

Height: 5’10” Arm Length: 31 3/8” Weight: 215 lbs Hands: 9 1/2”

JEFF DRISKEL QUARTERBACK

POSITION RANKING: ESPN - No. 10 CBS Sports - No. 14

• • • •

Height: 6’4” Arm Length: 33 1/2” Weight: 234 lbs Hands: 9 3/4”

Historic season ends for Lady Techster Tennis KERRY WAGUESPACK Staff Reporter | kfw005@latech.edu

Photo by LA Tech Communications

Senior Alexandra Starkova finished the season with a team best 13-5 singles record. Starkova also finished 10-8 in doubles with partner Zoe Chen.

The Lady Techsters tennis team has finished one of the most successful seasons in program history as they lost in the quarterfinals of the Conference USA tournament.

With a 4-0 loss to the Mean Green of North Texas the Techsters end the season but have plenty of success to build on going into next season.

Although the team was shut out in their final match of the season, the team endured many close matches.

This year’s senior class experienced one of the most successful careers in school history as they won 52 team matches and 312 individual wins between the three.

“It was an outstanding year for the team; we reached our goals and in many ways, our dreams too,” said head coach Chad Camper.

He said as the team reflects on the season, the players had a lot of fun while cheering on each other at the matches and helping

to build team chemistry.

“These players not only made me proud, but they made the university proud as well.” Camper said. “In particular, these seniors played a tremendous role in this program’s success.”

He said the senior trio will go down as one of the greatest in Lady Techsters tennis history.

The girls were just as successful on the court as they were off the court.

“I am really proud of the seniors and their careers, they have built a program which is something few people can say they did,” Camper said The team was able to earn a national ranking for the first time in program history and hold onto that spot for a three-week stretch.

In the first match of the tournament, the Techsters did battle with the Charlotte University 49ers where the team came out victorious by a score of 4-2.

By picking up the victory in her singles match, senior Alexandra Starkova got her teamleading 13th singles victory of the season.

Also with that victory, the

Techsters picked up win number 15 on the season, which marks the third time in four seasons the team has reached the 15-win mark.

In a match against North Texas, the Techsters were in a tie breaking match point in doubles to win, but the Mean Green were able to pull out the win in a heartbreaking loss for the Techsters.

“Even though we dropped the doubles point, all six courts fought very hard in singles,” Camper said. “We knew it would be extremely difficult, but the players did not let that stop them.”

The Techsters did not manage to win any set in singles play, but most of the matches came down to the wire with the team catching some tough breaks along the way.

The bright spot of the day was when, just like in round one, Jazmin Britos and Marta Sramkova dominated in their doubles match, winning 6-2.

“This was the closest we had ever come to taking the doubles point from North Texas all season,” Camper said.