PAGE 3

DAN RENEAU BELIEVES...

See what the Tech president says about tough decisions

Metallica releases new album with Lou Reed collaboration

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

PAGE 8
Elizabeth Whiteford takes crown at 54th annual Miss Tech competition

BLACKLISTED!
Learn about how a pending law could affect Internet browsing
PRSRT STD NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION US POSTAGE RUSTON, LA PERMIT NO 104 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

PAGE 6

Volume 86

T ech T alk
November 10, 2011 www.thetechtalk.org

The

PAID

The student voice of Louisiana Tech University

Number 9

Burglaries present security questions

PATRICK BOYD Staff Reporter Tech Police are looking at new security measures for Harper Hall after a male intruder was spotted in a dorm room Nov. 2. Approximately 2 a.m. Nov. 2, two residents of Harper Hall on the seventh floor awoke to an unidentified black man going through their belongings in their room, according to the police report. The two students yelled at him and he ran out, closing the door behind him. The students had propped their door open before going to bed to let air circulate through the room, which allowed the man to gain entry into the room. Tech Police were notified of the situation immediately, but by the time they arrived and checked the premises, the man had disappeared. There are several possibilities as to how he could have gotten into the dorm, said Bill Davis, Tech assistant chief of police. Someone could have left the door accidentally open when going in, or he could have slipped in the door before it closed. The next morning when the students woke up, they realized that several of their personal valuables, like drivers licenses and credit cards, were missing. The intruder was described as being 56-58 in height, a thin build and between 18-20 years of age. The incident prompted residential life and Tech police to evaluate the fob system, a keylike computerized system that unlocks residence hall doors. Housing is in the process of placing another fob entrance in Harper Hall, and we are looking at the handicapped door, since the door stays open for longer than the others, Davis said. We will also be placing video cameras that will be recording the lobby and front door. The next night between 2-3 a.m., a man gained entrance to the Student Center, damaged the ATM machine and pried open some of the cash registers at Chik-fil-A, according to security cameras in the Student Center. The man did not get any money because it is taken out of the registers at closing. The man caught on camera was similar in the description to

Photo by Dacia Idom

Members of black Greek sororities and fraternities show their signs. Some question a rule that requires clubs to have 10 members to have complete campus support.

> see SECURITY page 2

Critical Mass unites cyclists

JUSTIN FORT Staff Reporter Forty bikers stood in the parking lot of Lincoln Parish Library to show their discontent over the lack of support and lack of recognition for the biking community. Citizens of Ruston gathered at 3 p.m. Nov. 3 for Critical Mass, an event where cyclists expressed their concerns to their citys general population and public officials. It was a feeler event, said Justin Stoppleworth, owner of Turbo Goat. It wasnt meant to change the world. Stoppleworth and other local cyclists decided to host the event after four bikers were hit within the last month in and around Ruston. The last cyclist hit, 17-year-old Seth Cole Hanchey, is still in an intensive care unit in Baton Rouge. Stoppleworth said he knew it was time to organize an event after a cyclist was critically injured in mid-afternoon. He said more people should recognize cyclists rights to be on the road. Theyre supposed to be on the road, Stoppleworth said. They have a right, and there are laws that allow them to ride. Timothy Cormier, an avid cyclist, agreed with Stoppleworth and helped publicize the event. I care about the cycling community in Ruston, Cormier said. The world of cycling is a niche in the community where strong bonds can be formed just because two people are into bikes. Stoppleworth said it is the responsibility of the biking community to try to minimize the risks of cycling. However, he also said the general public has to be aware and show concern for those who ride on the road. We have to push for advocacy, Stoppleworth said. Half the people see us as pests. No one is going to do it for us. Stoppleworth and Cormier said the bike ride was held to raise awareness and to see how many community riders would participate. The purpose was to have fun with other people who have the same passion in life, Cormier said. It is an event in the spirit of fun. It is not a protest like many people think it is. After seeing approximately 75 people riding in the event, Cormier and Stoppleworth said they plan to organize more events like it and perhaps become more aggressive. We didnt want to cause any problems with this ride, Stop-

INORITY organizations in jeopardy?

10-member rule bars some clubs from campus funding, accessibility

SHERELLE BLACK News Editor

Bike riders came from all over Lincoln Parish to participate in the Critical Mass bike ride. The ride started at Lincoln Parish Library, went through downtown Ruston and concluded at Hide-Away Park.

Photo by Kyle Kight

> see CYCLISTS page 7

ment made to the rule that takes into consideration the differences between the National Pan-Hellenic Council Greeks, which is historKeenan Mitchell stepped onto Techs ically black, and the rest of the organizations. campus with an ambition to mold himself The rule needs to change especially for into someone who would live for commu- NPHC, since we are more selective and we nity service, strive for academic excellence are incorporated nationally, which means we and, most importantly, enhance the student have our own bylaws, said Mitchell, a senior body at Tech. Mitchell decided the best way political science and history major. There to do this was to join one of the fraternities are certain bylaws in the constitution that at Tech, Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity. basically address the minimum requirement Now Mitchell said he is worof how many members you need ried that he may not be able to to have to be active, and thats what fulfill his aspirations, due to the should be required of us at the unienforcement of a rule that jeopversity. ardizes the existence his fraternity For Greeks, there are three difand other minority Greeks of beferent groups that govern the many ing eliminated from Techs camdiverse fraternities and sororities. pus. The National Panhellenic ConIn order to be officially recogference governs 26 women sonized as a student organization rorities, the Interfraternity Council on Techs campus, organizations presides over collegiate mens framust comply with a rule that reternities and the National Pan-Helquires them to maintain 10 memlenic Council oversees the nine hisbers at all times. torically African-American Greek SPEED Sam Speed, assistant dean of sororities and fraternities. student life/judicial affairs, said he Tech has six of the nine sororibelieves the rule originated about 30 years ties and fraternities included in the NPHC: ago as a way to define organizations and see Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, Alpha Kappa which ones qualify for recognition on Techs Alpha sorority, Delta Sigma Theta sorority, campus. Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity, Omega Psi Phi Until recently, some organizations have fraternity and Zeta Phi Beta sorority. been able to bypass the rule without much Speed said although not all six NPHC response from the administration. Greeks have 10 members, he is working with Those who were relaxed on the rule them to accomplish this goal. shouldnt have been, Speed said. The vice To my knowledge, all of the NPHC president of student affairs didnt know this Greeks except Phi Beta Sigma, Sigma Gamwas happening, as far as those who didnt ma Rho and Iota Phi Theta are recognized have 10 members being allowed to have full or being assisted by the university to become recognition. fully recognized, he said. Now that the rule is being enforced, Mitchell, president of NPHC at Tech, said Mitchell, secretary of Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity, said he would like to see an amend- > see MINORITY page 3

Audiball, I-Chair impress judges at annual Top Dawg Idea Pitch

REINA KEMPT Staff Reporter Techs Top Dawg Idea Pitch does not usually receive ideas that create devices for the disabled, but not only were four such ideas submitted, but two took the top prizes Audiball and I-Chair. The Top Dawg Idea Pitch is an annual event where students can come up with creative and innovative ideas and pitch them to judges as if they were businessmen. Top Dawg director Debbie Inman, coordinator of entrepreneurial studies, said this years event was a success although there were many great ideas. Limbs without Limits is another project intended to help the disabled also caught the judges attention. Though these ideas won over the judges, Spray-on Wound Healing caught the attention of the audience. This group won $100 for receiving the most Bulldog Bucks from the student body. The Center for Rehabilitation Engineering, Science and Technology (CREST) has given some engineering groups ideas on how to help the disabled. Audiball, specifically, received their idea from CRESTs blind/low vision program, dedicated to assist individuals with visual impairments in meeting their goals. CREST program manager Joel Fernandes said there is a device for blind athletes to use already, but he would like a better one to possibly create his own sport for the blind. Thus, the Audiball was born. Audiball is a baseball-like ball with the technology made for the visually impaired to be able to participate in sports. Sierra Irwin, a senior mechanical engineering major, said the way this would work is the ball would send out sound waves that would notify all players where the ball is located using their sense of hearing instead of their sense of sight. Irwin said when her Audiball group received the idea from CREST and the Louisiana Center for the Blind, they were excited to be a part of it. Irwin said they will go on to the Top Dawg New Venture Championship (NVC) with her as one of their veterans. This will be her second year heading into the championship, but she said it will hopefully not be a repeat of last year. The first time (NVC) we presented on stage with PowerPoints, but this time we actually have to talk directly to judges and not a crowd of students, Irwin said. She said her group is looking forward to the challenge. Kristi Lumpkin, Idea Pitch judge and

Ruston economic development administrator, said this was her first year as a judge, and she was really happy to be a part of it. I didnt know exactly what to expect, but they all exceeded my expectations, Lumpkin said. They were all really great. The winners have the opportunity to advance to the NVC in the spring. The NVC is an annual event where students compete for prize money based on their ideas and plans for their concepts. J.T. Shim, Top Dawg judge and assistant professor of computer informa-

> see TOP DAWG page 7

2 The T T ech alk November 10, 2011

Campus
Miss Tech crowned at tonights pageant
Sixteen students will be competing for the crown in the Miss Tech Pageant at 7 p.m. today in Howard Auditorium, Center for the Performing Arts. The contestants will participate in events such as evening wear, onstage interview, swimwear and a talent. Entertainment will be provided between categories as well as during the final judging of the competition. Admission is $3 at the door, programs are $2 and Peoples Choice votes are $1. For more information contact Chelsea Davenport, committee head of the Miss Tech Pageant, at 318-257-4237 or cld036@latech.edu. search the calendar. Early registration is $15, plus an online registration fee, or $25 the day of the race. All proceeds from the race will be donated to the Disabled American Veterans Trust to support the men and women who have returned from serving in the military. For more information contact Matthew Small, detachment 305 cadet vice wing commander, at 318-458-8092 or mts019@latech.edu.

Redbox raises rental prices

Stefani Paul, a junior psychology major, searches a Redbox kiosk for a movie for her Psychology 418 class at the Redbox located outside the Walgreens at 108 W. California Avenue. Redbox, famous for its $1 a day movie and game rentals, recently increased its prices to $1.20 for each day DVDs are out. Game and Blu-Ray rental prices remain unchanged at $1.50 and $2, respectively. Coinstar, owner of Redbox, raised rental service prices just a few months after Netflix raised its prices and subsequently lost 800,000 customers.
Photo by Kyle Kight

Winter quarter purge date approaches

Students who have not paid full tuition or confirmed their schedule for winter quarter on their Bulldog Online Student System will be purged from all classes at 5 p.m. Nov. 18. Students must have a zero or negative balance and no holds on their account to prevent being purged. After a zero or negative balance appears, students must confirm their schedules or they will be purged. If students are unable to pay by Nov. 18, the comptrollers office offers payment plans that must be arranged by Nov. 18 in order to confirm their schedule. For more information contact Lisa Cole, university comptroller, at 318-257-4325 or lcole@latech.edu.

Jazz Lunch Concert scheduled for Friday

Tech Jazz Ensemble will host its Fall Quarter Jazz Lunch Concert from 12:30-1:30 p.m. Friday in the Student Center, Main Floor. The concert is free and open to the public. The ensemble consists of students from Tech, but the band will also present guest artists Mark Michell on bass guitar and Scott Smith on the trumpet. For more information contact Lawrence Gibbs, director of Tech Jazz Ensemble, at 318257-5472 or hlgibbs@latech. edu.

Tech Talk website honored

Tech News Services Louisiana Techs student-run newspaper, The Tech Talk, has received top honors nationally for its online edition. The Tech Talk Online received the Associated Collegiate Press Pacemaker Award, the organizations highest award. The newspapers online edition was one of five online papers chosen in the Newspaper 10,001-20,000 enrollment category. Overall, more than 250 online newspapers were considered. This Pacemaker award for Tech Talk online is particularly important for us because we have put so much effort into improving our digital presence over the last two years, said Reginald Owens, chair of the journalism department. This award will certainly give us the incentive to do more and get even better online. According to ACP Pacemaker , recipients were chosen based on content and coverage, breaking news, site design, interactivity, rich media and writing/editing. Professional judges from the Center for Investigative Reporting selected the finalists. Online Pacemaker winners were announced at the ACP/ College Media Advisers National College Media Convention in Orlando, Fla., on Oct. 29. Owens added that the journalism students and faculty have received more than 60 awards in the past school year. I am proud of what our students have produced online, he said. They are doing an excellent job of keeping up with the new digital technology and incorporating it into our student media. We recognize that students are going online more and more to get information and we are trying to cater to that. The 2010-2011 school year has been a banner year for the journalism departments media. All of our student media have received top awards for excellence.

>

SECURITY from pg. 1

Transfer students feedback needed

Techs Recruitment and Retention Council is seeking transfer students willing to participate in focus groups Dec. 7-8. Transfer student feedback will aid the council for future planning. For more information contact Linda Griffin, dean of student development, at 318-2572445 or lgriffin@latech.edu.

ROTC to host 5K run for Veterans Day

Techs Air Force ROTC will host a Veterans Day 5k run/ walk at 8 a.m. Sunday at Lincoln Parish Park. To register, go to www. sportspectrumusa.com and

the intruder at Harper Hall. We are not ruling out that the two are related, Davis said. Some other businesses in Ruston had some burglaries as well that night. After looking at the security tapes from the burglary, the police report described the intruder as a black male wearing a light colored hooded sweatshirt over a Tech blue coat, tan or khaki pants, and white tennis shoes. Throughout the footage, the man would alternate having his hood on. There was a function going on in the Student Center that night, so a door was probably not shut all the way, said Davis as to how the man got into the Student Center. Davis said Tech police are still looking into both the Harper Hall and Student Center incidents. Tech police and our student workers are always checking buildings and keeping an eye out on any instances such as these, he said. If a student leaves their dorm, they need to make sure the door shuts and locks behind them to prevent these kinds of problems. If females in the residence halls dont escort the person that comes in with them back out, then they can have free access to whatever they want.

Email comments to gpb009@latech.edu.

Save her life,

DONATE BLOOD-PLASMA.

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

EARN $50 TODAY!

Just come in with a valid picture ID, your Social Security and proof of your address.

Personalized Gifts

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

We have something for Everyone!

110 Park Ave. Ruston 318-202-5614

We look forward to assisting you with your life saving donation.

401 South Vienna St. Ruston 318-513-2020

BIOMAT RUSTON

November 10, 2011 The T T ech alk 3

I believe...in being firm in decision making

AMIE ROLLAND Staff Reporter This is the eighth in a nine-part series on what different individuals believe based on the collection of essays titled This I Believe II. The book serves as the common read for freshman seminar classes as part of the First-Year Experience program. From student to professor to president, Dan Reneau, a longtime member of the Tech family, was shaped by Louisiana Tech and is now working to leave a positive legacy that will shape Techs future generations. In the past 25 years as president of Louisiana Tech University, Reneau has made numerous decisions that have turned the institution into a model university. Reneau said he believes in many things that can tie together one central belief he finds crucial to decision making as the president of a university. Being in a leadership position like I am and have been privileged to be in, I believe there has to be a firmness in decision making, he said. Reneau said he has made many difficult decisions concerning selective admissions, graduate programs and research and development. He said when he became president, the focus was on student enrollment, but he believes in quality over quantity. I thought having students at Louisiana Tech who wanted to be at Louisiana Tech, and wanted to get a higher education was the important thing, he said. Enrollment dropped after moving to a selective admissions process, but Reneau said it worked and Tech now has the best student body in the history of the university. This years freshman class is the largest since 2006 and the retention rate is up three percent. I have great faith in the youth of this university, he said. You read so much about every generation saying the next generation is going down the hole, but I dont believe that. Reneau said integrity, character and perseverance combined lead to success. He said it is very easy to give up when you hit a bump in the road, but if you persevere you can succeed. There have been many times when its been completely black, and I couldnt see my way out of something, but I figured if I just hung in there Id find a little light to see which way to go, he said. Reneau said a persons integrity is determined by his honesty and how he portrays himself. Sometimes the right thing is not always the public opinion but in your own heart and mind, he said. Like Shakespeare said, To thine own self be true. Reneau also said he believes in fairness, empathy and the fallibility of mankind. He said he tries to be fair in his decision-making and show compassion to the students and people around him. I know I make mistakes and so do others, he said. If they are serious about it, I believe in second chances. Lastly, Reneau said he believes every mind is waiting to be developed. He said he treasures education, and without the educational system, he does not know where he would have wound up. I believe so strongly in the process of education, particularly higher education and developing a persons mind to teach them not necessarily what to think, but how to think, he said. Through education, Reneau said people could not only make a difference in their own lives, but also in the lives of the people around them. He said throughout his lifetime he has worked with many important people. All of them have helped

Photo by Dacia Idom

Tech President Dan Reneau has served the university as president for 25 years. He believes that its important to be firm when making big decisions such as his to decision move to selective admission. shape him, yet Reneau said he makes sure to stick to his own judgment. At all times, theres something inside of you that tells you what is right and what is wrong, and you have to have your own little chart to go by, he said. Reneau said to do everything with pride, always have a purpose and show you are passionate. Reneau said he is extremely proud of Tech where he has found a purpose and a passion toward the student body. He also said he is pleased with Techs research and development and get-

ting into the top tier of U.S & World News Reports best colleges list earlier this fall. Although Tech went through deep budget cuts last year, construction never ceased. Reneau points to additions to Maxie Lambright Intramural Center and Tech Pointe as evidence of Techs success. I think the whole world is open to Louisiana Tech and where it can go, he said. I think unquestionably Louisiana Tech has emerged as a type of flagship school for North Louisiana.

Email comments to asr017@latech.edu.

>

MINORITY from pg. 3

the administration should realize NPHC Greeks have more rules and regulations and time constraints when it comes to their intake processes versus non-NPHC Greeks. All of the black Greeks have different intake processes, but they are alike in some ways, he said. For instance, every member who comes through has to be approved by not only the local chapter, but by nationals, too. We also have to pay a large amount of money in a small amount of time and abide by the national bylaws and constitution when it comes to selecting each person. Mitchell said that being governed on a national level sometimes adds to the struggle of having a large number of new members. Nationals play a huge role in our processes because they essentially have the power to deny or accept a potential candidate that may have put us at the 10-member mark, he said. He also said typically the intake process for NPHC Greeks ranges anywhere from three months to more than six months, which is why the university should have a rule that incorporates the national rules. Speed said he has taken these factors into consideration but believes that the selectivity NPHC Greeks show when voting on prospective members hinders them from having a significant amount of new members. I think most of the Greeks could have 10 members and maintain 10 if they didnt overlook or surpass prospects who meet their qualifications, he said. Mitchell said having the right to vote on candidates and being able to deny them is what makes NPHC Greeks a special and unique part of the Greek system. We have the right to be exclusive, he said. Its really up to us to say who we want and how many we want. You cant just let anyone in because then our organizations wouldnt be exclusive anymore, and those who qualify might not necessarily fit the ideal of a man or woman of that particular sorority and fraternity. Speed said organizations should be able to fulfill their missions while increasing membership. Organizations exist for a purpose. That purpose should be carried out with both the support and resources of the university, he said. The organization should be able to carry out its purpose, while sustaining its membership for the future. Speed said although he does not know what the magical number should be for the requirement, he does know that organizations need to have at least 10 members to be able to further leadership amongst members. A student organization is not a group of people getting together to talk and hang out, he said. One of the reasons an organization exists is to foster leadership. If they dont have at least five members, then they dont have enough members for an executive council according to Roberts Rule of Order. And if you do have just five members, the question is, who are you leading? Mitchell said while Speed is working with them, he does not understand why he is so adamant about having 10 members. When you think about our organizations and when we were founded, it shows that you can accomplish a lot with less then 10

members, he said. The Alphas (Alpha Phi Alpha) had seven, the Sigmas (Phi Beta Sigma) had four, and the SGRhos (Sigma Gamma Rho) had seven, and they were able to function and have guidelines, and start organizations that have lasted approximately 100 years. So not only were they able to be productive where they started, but they were also able to branch out and charter other chapters. Organizations that do not qualify for full recognition lose some privileges that could be vital for survival to some minority organizations, such as not being able to get grants and rent large facilities like Memorial Gym. Speed said even without this rule, organizations would still find it harder to be able to get funding through grants.

Photo by Dacia Idom

Students flash their sorority and fraternity signs. Some members of black organizations have expressed concerns with Techs 10-member rule, which inhibits small groups from gaining access to campus funding and facilities.

Funds will be scrutinized anyway, he said. Anytime you go through high budget cuts, you start to look at where you can cut back on money. Other students involved in minority organizations outside of NPHC, like Dustin Vessel, president of Black Student Union, are also concerned about the longevity of their organizations. There are currently 11,581 students enrolled at Tech with 23 percent of the population considered the minority, which includes all races other than Caucasian. Of that 23 percent, 14 percent is African-American students. Vessel said he understands why the rule is being enforced, but would like to see an amendment made. Rules have to be set in place, but exceptions have to be made when clearly the odds are against us, Vessel, a senior communication design major, said. At this university, which is a PWI (predominately white institution) its 10 times easier for Caucasians to get 10 members. I dont want to justify it, but I cant ignore that we are the minority. Its hard for me to believe the administration doesnt see this. We barely have 10 blacks inside of the classroom. How can they expect us to have 10 outside? However, Vessel said just because they are the minority does not necessarily mean that blacks should use that as an excuse. We dont want African-Americans to get the mindset that we cant achieve this and we are destined for less, but I do want the administration to realize what they are asking of us, in some sense is unrealistic, he said. Speed said he does not think organizations will die off based on this rule, but that organizations will continue to grow because of it. It is my thought that each of the organizations will rise to the standard that has been given, he said. Although I have extreme confidence that this can occur, ultimately, it is up to each organization to provide the necessary framework to be successful. Mitchell said hopefully something will be done about this rule because he said he believes it would be detrimental to the growth of this campus, if just one of the NPHC Greeks were to be eliminated from Tech. From a minority point of view, we are seen as leaders on campus, he said. We rely on each other to help support one anothers efforts and visions to enhance the student body and the community. Together we provide a networking experience not just amongst black Greeks but white Greeks and various other organizations, too. Vessel said with so much history behind these organizations, it is important that they continue to be on campus, so that AfricanAmericans can continue to grow together. We have to have that outlet to be able to connect and interact with each other, he said. It is important to Vessel that minority organizations continue to thrive, because he said he believes they play a vital part in students ability to learn and develop within their culture. There are many cultural differences between blacks and other races, and we have to explore those amongst each other before we go out and explore those differences with the world, he said. We need to know who we are, why we are and most importantly understand what kind of impact we can make.

Email comments to scb035@latech.edu.

WE ACCE PT

TO ADVERTISE
Call us at 257-4949
HOLE IN ONE DRIVING RANGE
(1/2 mile past Joe Alliet Stadium)

Frozen Custard & More

Each Tuesda y is

college day
10% off with student i.d.

We Offer...

Scoops Sundaes Shakes Concretes

Smoothies Shaved Ice Food Stuff

Buy a bucket of balls and get a bucket FREE!! We also o er STUDENT DISCOUNTS. Please redeem coupon by Dec.15th. Under new management. (ADD Life Fitness Center) 255-8330 addliferuston@aol.com
HOURS: Wed.-Fri. 3 p.m.-8 p.m. Sat. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. 12 p.m.-5 p.m.

Eskamoes, a COOl pla

ce to be!

1913 E. Kentucky Ruston, LA (318) 513-9696 Located next to Foxs Pizza www.eskamoes.net

Insight
KELLY BELTON Editor-in-Chief

4 The T T ech alk November 10, 2011

FROM THE EDITOR

Goodbye is bittersweet
year and a half ago, I walked into The Tech Talk newsroom like a scared puppy. I didnt know anyone on the staff and had a tough-talking editorial staff to which I had to answer. Taking 12 hours, I didnt realize how time-consuming The Tech Talk would be. Now, as I prepare to step down as editor-in-chief, it could not be more evident how this newspaper has become my baby. Reporting forces journalists to come out of their shells. As a freshman who didnt know many people at Tech, I learned quickly that its best to just throw yourself out there. People dont know you; theres nothing to lose. That spring quarter I met many friendly faces on my beat at The Tech Talk from the International Student Office and College of Business. I mingled with Tea Partiers and counter protesters at a Tax Day Tea Party rally. The professors at the Institute for Micromanufacturing were even gracious enough to give me a tour of otherwise private laboratories. I like to think I learned a lot that quarter. But since then, my growth has been exponential. Once I joined the editorial staff, the Keeny Hall basement became a home. As I learned to edit, interact with peers in a professional environment and continue writing, the 1970s-style sofas in our lab became an eating, napping and homework spot for me. Perhaps more importantly, I have grown to love the people I work with. Of course there are bumps in the road and we are all still learning, but I have been blessed to learn from and hopefully teach a tight-knit group of journalism students. Putting this newspaper out has not always been easy, but there is definitely a sense of pride in knowing students have the power to make a difference. As I remember last fall, the Student Government Associations Wagon Project comes to mind. Though the matter seemed trivial to some, others, even some in SGA, had concerns about the cost of the wagon. The Tech Talk published an article explaining the item and the controversy it caused at an SGA meeting. Though Im sure SGA members may not like me for it, The Tech Talk helped ensure that the wagon would not be overly expensive. This quarter we published a story about downtown parking. In the past week, the story has run in The Ruston Daily Leader and appeared in broadcast on KNOE Monroe. While the city of Ruston has yet to make any changes, the problem has gained the publicity necessary for reform. With that said, I hope to remain involved with The Tech Talk. I dont think I could simply abandon something I have worked so long and hard on. Still, I have come to the apex of my college journalism career. Its bittersweet. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, though, I am grateful for the incredible opportunities The Tech Talk has opened for me. For these reasons, I can confidently say youll be seeing me. I dont know when, where or how yet, but I hope to continue what I started here and take it wherever I can. Kelly Belton is a senior journalism and political sciencemajor from Houston who serves as editor-in-chief for The Tech Talk. Email comments to belton.kelly@gmail.com.

IN OUR OPINION

US should address its high poverty

A SLICE OF HUMBLE PIE WITH SARAI

Effects of Initiative 26 avoided
NAOMI ALLISON News Editor n Tuesday night, drama came to an end as a majority of Mississippians voted against Initiative 26, a controversial ballot iniative created to legally protect the rights of unborn children in Mississippi. Although the text of the amendment appeared simple, it had many underlying implications that were complex. It challenged the perceptions of where the boundary is between life and death, by defining personhood as every human being from the moment of fertilization, cloning or the functional equivalent thereof. According to Yes on 26s fact sheet on its official website, Iniative 26 intendeded to stop the abortion industry in Mississippi, as well as economic incentives behind cloning. It said it would not ban in-vitro fertilization, prevent doctors from saving a mothers life during complicated pregnancies, make miscarriages a criminal offense or outlaw normal contraceptives such as the pill. Other instances such as rape, incest or the use of drugs such as RU486 would be prohibited. Though many questioned the amendments exact meaning, Yes on 26s website said, Personhood is a constitutional definition that establishes a principle. It does not attempt to set the policy and procedure for every situation. Personhood establishes that both the mother and baby must be protected. Before its rejection, the amendment received a variety of responses throughout Mississippi. Terri Herring, the national director for the Pro-Life America network, said the amendments purpose was to give people the opportunity to say that there are better alternatives to abortion and to make national conversation. In Mississippi, we have the opportunity to lead the way on a social justice issue, she said. We may have been behind on civil rights, but we can be ahead on human rights, and thats what personhood is really all about. We will establish a culture of life, said Dr. Freda Bush, a Yes on 26 spokeswoman. This is a cultural war from the womb to the tomb and we will be back. Opponents of the measure said that voting yes could have distatrous consequences. At Jackson State University, a group of college students sported black shirts with, Get out of her Vagina, in bright pink letters. The Mississippi Nurses Associations House of Delegates also disagreed with the campaign and said the amendment would have multiple consequences if passed. Some pregnancies, if carried to term, pose life threatening dangers to the mother, it said. Initiative 26 will force women to risk their lives or leave the state to seek medical care. We have named this the law of unintended consequences, said Paul Seago, a Jackson-based doctor who specializes in gynecologic oncology. It would negatively impact the delivery of medicine in Mississippi. Regardless of the results and anyones stance on abortion, I feel that it is imperative that many understand the potential side effects the amendment would have had. Iniative 26 could have led to a nationwide debate about womens rights, abortion and the landmark Roe v. Wade case. In the 1973 case, Justice Potter Stewart said, Abortion is inherently different from other medical procedures because no other procedure involves the purposeful termination of a potential life. If it were established that an unborn fetus is a person, you would have an impossible case here. The amendment could have changed the course of medical research, caused a dramatic increase in pregnancies, increased health care costs and made women more conscious of their decision to have intimate relationships with their partners. Though abortion is a controversial and moral issue that many prefer not to discuss even during gossip hour at the coffee shop it seems the concept is unlikely to disappear soon. With other states placing the option on their ballot in 2012, the issue might countinue to garner more attention than expected. At the end of the day, I am not God. I am not in the position to judge someone elses life especially when I am perfectly imperfect and have not walked a mile in their shoes. I can only pray that I am never placed in a situation where I have to contemplate an abortion. It would break my heart. Naomi Allison is a junior journalism major from West Lake who serves as news editor for The Tech Talk. Email comments to nsa008@latech.edu.

ith many Americans still facing economic issues, the poverty level is consistently rising, bringing the number of poor to an all time high. New census data shows that 1 in 15 people in America rank among the poorest poor, with poverty spreading wildly across metropolitan areas. An article by the Associated Press states that about 20.5 million Americans, or 6.7 percent of the U.S. population, make up the poorest poor, defined as those at 50 percent or less of the official poverty level. Those living in deep poverty represent nearly half of the 46.2 million people scraping by below the poverty line. In 2010, the poorest poor meant an income of $5,570 or less for an individual and $11,157 for a family of four. That 6.7 percent share is the highest in the 35 years that the Census Bureau has maintained such records, surpassing previous highs in 2009 and 1993 of just over 6 percent. This record shows that more Americans of different races, social statures and job status are being affected by the economy. In the article, Robert Moffitt, a professor of economics at Johns Hopkins University, said poverty has gotten so bad that there are not many Americans left who are not witnessing changes because of it. There now really is no unaffected group, except maybe the very top income earners, said Moffitt. Recessions are supposed to be temporary, and when its over, everything returns to where it was before. But the worry now is that the downturn which will end eventually will have long-lasting effects on families who lose jobs, become worse off and cant recover. It is the opinion of The Tech Talk that poverty will continue to increase in the near future due to unemployment, housing issues and a lack of stability in the economy. With unemployment rates persistently high, many citizens cannot get ahead and have been forced to sell their homes and move into poor suburbs and other less desirable places. According to the article by Associated Press, neighborhoods with poverty rates of at least 40 percent are stretching over broader areas, increasing in suburbs at twice the rate of cities. The increase in this rate means we can expect to see more of the white, middle-class high school and college graduates rather than seeing mostly low income blacks, single mothers and foreigners who are seeking a better life. Having more people living in high-poverty neighborhoods is definitely a bad thing for the citizens living there. Living in these neighborhoods limits access to good schools, hospitals and government services. As a nation we like to pride ourselves on helping other nations in times of need, but we always seem to fall short when it comes to helping ourselves. We believe that the government needs to take the time to improve our unemployment rates, housing and national debt before stepping outside our nation to help others. We can only hope that the economy will stabilize in the near future and reduce the rate of poverty and that Americans will come together to uplift those in poverty and lessen some of their economic hardship.

T T ech alk
The student voice of Louisiana Tech University

The

MANAGEMENT

CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING

OWS lacks structure to expand
REBECCA SPENCE News Editor n Sept. 17, the streets of Lower Manhattan resembled the setup of Bonnaroo or Coachella music festivals. Despite the cultured people and tents packed in tightly to establish a sense of community, these people were not preparing to listen to Florence and the Machine. Occupy Wall Street began its campaign that day with a march, and the movement has done nothing but flourish. It has spread to more than 100 cities across the United States and is taking college communities by storm. The point of this protest is to raise awareness about anti-capitalist ideals and corporate greed. The protesters believe that the middle class is shrinking because of income inequality. As the middle class shrinks, the number of educated or able-but-jobless people increases. Many of the protesters have posted on blog sites with a picture of themselves and the campaigns slogan, We are the 99%, with a personal explanation of why being part of the 99 percent is so horrifying. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national unemployment rate last month rose to 9.8 percent from 9.6 percent the previous month. Some of these college graduates are working but in low-paying jobs that they are overqualified for. The lack of jobs is discouraging, not only for college graduates, but for students deciding if college is going to be worth the time and money if a stable job will possibly not come out of their hard work. These protesters are trying to give accounts as to why the economy is not working for many Americans. According to its website, OWS is trying to fight back against the corrosive power of major banks and multinational corporations over the democratic process and the role of Wall Street in creating an economic collapse that has caused the greatest recession in generations. I understand its goals and I understand the reasoning for these goals. What I do not understand is the number of people who have no idea why they are sleeping in a tent in Lower Manhattan. Interview after interview, critics of the movement are given momentum because the number of freeloaders that seem to be occupying a majority of the campaigns. I am not so sure there is anything educated protesters can do about these people just along for the Woodstock experience, but it would be beneficial for their credentials within the media. The biggest question to me is if this movement will continue to pick up momentum or if it will slowly die out because it lacks leadership, discipline and no set legislative goals. It has given a topic for discussion for presidential candidates, and the media has jumped all over the specifics of following the protests. The movement is definitely in motion, but I am not sure how long it will take for protesters to move off the street and try to get on with their lives or for the government to do something about the current economic crisis. According to the OWS website, The U.S. has an important role to play in the solution, but we can no longer afford to let corporate greed and corrupt politics set the policies of our nation. I believe if the movement organizes and defines its legislative goals, it could attract more serious attention to lawmakers and citizens who are not just young students or graduates. The key is to get other generations involved in the movement. Rebecca Spence is a junior journalism and speech communication major from Cypress, Texas, who serves as news editor for The Tech Talk. Email comments to res022@latech.edu.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ASSOCIATE EDITOR MANAGING EDITOR NEWS EDITORS SPORTS EDITORS MULTIMEDIA EDITOR MULTIMEDIA ASSISTANT HEAD PHOTOGRAPHER STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER ADVERTISING MANAGER ADVISERS ADVERTISING ADVISER PRODUCTION MANAGER ADVERTISING PRODUCTION DEPARTMENT HEAD

Kelly Belton Mary Timmons Amber Guyotte Naomi Allison Sherelle Black Sarah Brown Anna Claire Thomas Dacia Idom Rebecca Spence Dacia Idom Jessica Van Alstyne Kyle Kight Raven Thissel Dr. Elizabeth Christian Judith Roberts Dr. Reginald Owens Michael LeBlanc Michael LeBlanc Dr. Reginald Owens

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

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

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

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

CONTACT US

NEWSROOM 318.257.4946 ADVERTISING 318.257.4949

November 10, 2011 The T T ech alk 5

KLPIs Terminal E offers global music selections

JUSTIN FORT Staff Reporter Classical music composer Aaron Copland once said stopping the flow of music would be like stopping time itself. KLPI senior disc jockey Kaitlyn Carroll is applying Coplands idea, not only by increasing the flow in Ruston, but making it more diverse. Carroll plays a different type of music each week during her show. Its a show that highlights different genres from different areas of the world, Carroll said. Im very flexible and open to something different. Carroll said she would like Terminal E to be a medium for everyone in Ruston to hear new music. The purpose is to expose people to different music, Carroll said. I think there is a lot of value in being able to learn and experience something youre not familiar with. Some students concede that variety is a good thing. People have a lot of different tastes, said Austin Brasher, a freshman mechanical engineering major. I think stations should play different music. In small towns like Ruston, many peoples musical tastes are not represented. Of the 23 radio stations within 30 miles of Ruston, nine are religious and seven are oldies/country, taking up nearly 70 percent of radio channels in proximity. Carroll has played six different musical styles on Terminal E, including Irish/Celtic punk rock and KPOP pop music from , South Korea. Her next show will feature popular music in Ruston. Carroll said she is trying to integrate more Asian music so she can appeal to Techs international students; there are more than 650 international students from 70 different countries. I feel like theyre more at home by giving them a voice, Carroll said. They have more insight into their culture. Taylor Michelle, a freshman accounting major, said he would be lost if he was not able to hear music he grew up with. I would probably die, Michelle said. Id be wondering why everyone was singing this song and why havent I ever heard it? Carroll said she wants Terminal E to help students gain an understanding of other cultures and their music. Its important to respect other types of music, Carroll said. It gives you a better appreciation for what you like. Brasher said he has no interest in listening to any music other than what he likes, which is country. I like what I like, Brasher said. I dont care for it [other music] so I wouldnt listen to it. Terminal E airs every Sun-

Photo by Dacia Idom

Kaitlyn Carroll, a senior dic jockey at Techs KLPI, plays international music on her weekly show Terminal E. She said she thinks offering a variety of music is good for Ruston residents and helps international students feel at home. day from 10 a.m. to midnight. The shows Facebook page, Terminal E: 89.1 KLPI Specialty Show has a list of each weeks show and upcoming events. Carroll said the playlist will continue to grow and encourages everyone to make requests for show and song ideas by calling KLPI at 318-257-3689. We kind of have something for everybody, Carroll said.

No matter what, at least one little part of the show will appeal to everyone.

Email comments to jwf014@latech.edu.

Obama plan intended to provide student loan relief

MOLLY BOWMAN Staff Reporter President Barack Obama has unveiled a new student loan plan that can potentially lift some of the financial pressure off Tech students shoulders. The new plan stipulates that maximum required payments on student loans will be reduced from 15 percent of discretionary income to 10 percent in order to reduce monthly payments for borrowers, according to MSNBC. com. Roger Vick, director of student financial aid, said this will really only benefit students taking out substantially high loans. It will give some people with high borrowing levels some benefits, but you have to remember there are a lot of details that those figures dont tell you, Vick said. Youve got to be on time and pay your loans regularly, and Steeples Glen 11.10.11:Layout 1 you cant have been in default, he said. Anna Brewer, By the end of a sophomore prethe year, outstandnursing major, said ing student loans are some students need predicted to reach to reconsider going It will give some $1 trillion, according straight to college to CBSNEWS.com. people with high after high school. Vick said some Its not the time of the reasons for for all students to go borrowing levels some this high figure are to college because benefits, but you have because many stuof the economic dents borrow money situation, especially to remember there to go to a school if you are going to of their choice, not school and dont are a lot of details that necessarily to get an know what your ma- those figures dont education. jor will be, she said. There are many Unless you can tell you. ways to go to school afford it, you are acthat can minimize quiring a lot of debt costs, Vick said. and wasting money Roger Vick If you live near a on what you are un- director of student financial aid community college, certain about. Stuthats a great start dents should work for students beginand save money to go to school when ning college that are not going to get 11/9/11 certain AM their future. they are 11:50 of Page 1 scholarships. Their classes cost less to attend, and it would make a lot of sense. In the past year, tuition costs have increased more than 8 percent at fouryear public universities, according to MSNBC.com. Vick said 3,197 Tech students took out loans this fall. Costs of operating a university have gone up over the years, Vick said. Its not just that everybody is getting a big raise. Its because utility costs go up, construction costs go up and maintenance costs go up. I think Tech has done an admirable job of keeping their costs down. Some Tech students like Kesha Jean-Batiste, a sophomore merchandising and consumer studies major, said she believes loans are a good thing for students, but can bring them unexpected debt. In a way, its beneficial because sometimes students dont always have the money to go to school, she said.

Loans allow you to not have to pay for it all at once so students are able to go to school. I was able to use loans but didnt realize how much debt that I encountered. Student loans are the second largest source of household debt, according to MSNBC.com. In order to succeed in paying off loans in a timelier manner, Vick said students need to lower their living standards. When students are in school, it should be a lifestyle choice, he said. They should be keeping their costs to a minimum as a student instead of borrowing to try to maintain a lifestyle that they had at home with their parents. Inconvenient and uncomfortable at times it may be, but it certainly saves you from a lot of borrowing in the end.

Email comments to mmb041@latech.edu.

2BR 2BA 3BR 3BA 4BR 4BA UNITS AVAILABLE

Washer & Dryer Microwave Dishwasher Refrigerator w/ Icemaker Self-Cleaning Oven
FREE Wireless High Speed Internet

Central Air & Heating

Individual Security Systems

Pet Friendly
24 Hour Emergency Maintenance

Cable TV Availability

Walking distance to campus & Downtown Ruston

Gilbert Realty 611 South Vienna Ruston, LA 71270 (318) 251-9106

6 The T T ech alk November 10, 2011

Arts&Entertainment
Groups gather for 43rd composers concert
MOLLY BOWMAN Staff Reporter Techs School of the Performing Arts hosted the 43rd annual Louisiana Composers Consortium Concert in the Recital Hall of Howard Center for the Performing Arts on Sunday. Faculty and students from Tech, University of Louisiana at Monroe and Louisiana School for Math, Science and the Arts came to perform in this concert. Joe L. Alexander, an associate professor of music at Tech, said the students have enjoyed working on the pieces for this concert all quarter. We just love doing it; we really do, he said. The groups like to perform, and they get a chance to show off. Plus, from a student ensemble perspective, you work for a whole quarter on something, and its no fun just to play in a recital. They get a chance to play in front of the general public, which is always more fun. Alexander has been a member of the Louisiana Composers Consortium since 2002. His music has been performed throughout the United States as well as Ecuador and Germany. His composition March Though Time premiered this year at Techs Octubafest at the end of October. March Through Time was the opening number at the concert in the Recital Hall. Corey Green, a sophomore interior design major, said he loves coming to the music performances at Tech. I always come to support the arts, Green said. I love music so much. Alexander said one of the requirements of being a member of the consortium is to host a recital at least once a year. He said he doesnt know exactly what the content of each recital will be every year. Its completely up to the individual people and what they bring, he said. Most of the time I have no idea what the pieces will be like. Its part of the fun. Also, it makes for an interesting program trying to figure out what would be good following what. Valerie Lott, a freshman music major, said she enjoyed the student compositions. The student compositions included Winter Mellowy Night, by Tiffany Woda and three duets for the trombone and tuba by Josh Mattison. I think its cool to see the works my peers produced, Lott said. Green said his favorite piece of the concert was Wodas Winter Mellowy Night. It reminded me of a kid in a certain way, he said. I could picture myself in the snow. It painted a nice picture. Alexander said the concert had a wide variety of pieces performed at the concert no two pieces were the same. The program varied widely from a compositional style to very conservative pieces, he said. You got a wide gamut from a compositional standpoint. None of the pieces were even remotely similar to each other by looking at what the individual composers did. Some Tech students like Green found the Wood Cuts performance by Mel Mobley intriguing. This performance included the cutting of paper with a pair of scissors to create a unique composition. Green said he enjoyed it, and it gave him inspiration to create his own piece. I told myself I was going

Photo by Dacia Idom

Joshua Mattison, a junior music education major, plays a trombone and tuba duet with Joe L. Alexander during the 43rd annual Louisiana Composers Consortium Concert Sunday evening.

to compose a piece using the light switch and a staple machine after seeing that performance. Alexander said that for every recital, they try to play what hasnt been recently played and then try to bring one brand new piece into the

program. Al Benners Chaos premiered at this concert. It was performed on the piano by Wesley Ducote from the Louisiana School for Math, Science and the Arts. Lott said music is important in life, and it weaves people a common thread.

I think its something that brings a lot of us together, she said. You dont have to necessarily like the same kind of music, but most everyone enjoys music in general.

Email comments to mmb041@latech.edu.

MUSIC REVIEW

CHECK OUT OUR NEW WEBSITE!

WWW.THETECHTALK.ORG

Reed and Metallica album fails to meet expectations

MARY TIMMONS Associate Editor Usually when two different musicians combine their talents, they are capable of producing a unique sound that others can enjoy. Unfortunately for Metallica and Lou Reed, that is not the case. After first hearing about the album, Lulu, I was rather excited. Metallica has produced numerous Grammy-winning hits since the early 90s. Then there is Lou Reed who has had much success as a solo musician and with The Velvet Underground. With the collaboration of two renowned rock legends, how can this album not be a success? It wasnt until I heard the first track that my excitement slowly dwindled down to non-existent. If you can make it through Brandenburg Gate without wanting to change to the next song, more power to you. Sadly even after the first track there is not much to look forward to. The tracks The View and students can listen to the entire track Junior Dad while attempting to find a parking place where you wont be ticketed. It wouldnt be so bad if the track had a decent chorus. By the end of the song, all I wanted to do was pull the vocalist up out of his half drowning sorrows and ask him what the hell sunny, a monkey then to monkey actually means. The only point I actually gained from this track is that this is in fact the greatest disappointment. This is honestly one of the worst collaborations I have ever heard. These rock legends work better separately. Next time, leave the collaborations to artists who know how to work with one other. If you want to give the album a chance, be forewarned about the time you will never get back and the $15 that you could have spent paying off a parking ticket.

Well breathe new life into your score. Guaranteed.*

MCAT courses for the April exam start Jan 8th. Use promo code BATGR20011LTU and take $200 off a classroom course.
When youre ready for the challenge, give us a call or visit us online. 800-2Review (800-273-8439) | princetonreview.com

RCA Records

Lulu Metallica and Lou Reed HIIII

Iced Honey are not completely atrocious, but theyre not exactly great either. If the album was not filled with songs that are longer than seven minutes, I might have been able to force myself to enjoy it more. Just when you think its over, there is an entire second part to the album. Listeners should not get too excited about part two due to the fact that there is one song that will take about 20 minutes of your time. It works out well though,

MCAT

Private Tutoring, Small Group Instruction, Classroom and Online Courses.

*Visit princetonreview.com/guarantee for details. $200 discount is valid only on new enrollments. Discount cannot be combined with any other offer. MCAT is a registered trademark of the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), which is not afliated with The Princeton Review. The Princeton Review is not afliated with Princeton University.

Email comments to mnt005@latech.edu.

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

GET YOUR CAR READY FOR BACK TO SCHOOL

ANY SERVICE
CH BACK TO S OOL

318-242-0003

FOR RENT
2BR/1BA w/study, energy eff. home, nice & quite community $475.
Call (318) 513-2133

10
318-255-1772
501 S. Vienna Street

STUDENT ID

with

%off
Open: MF 8-6 Sat 8-5

Brakes, Exhaust, Fluids, Factory Scheduled Maintenance, Suspension, Wheel Alignments, Belts, Hoses, Headlamps, Bulbs and More
Discount off regular price. Consumer pays all tax. Most vehicles. Cash value 1/100th of 1. Coupon required at time of purchase. One coupon per total invoice. Not valid with other offers. Valid at participating location(s) listed below. Void if sold, copied or transferred and where prohibited by law. Expires 10/31/11.

RUSTON

Trust the Midas touch. Trust the Midas touch.

VISIT WWW.MIDASMONROE.COM TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT ONLINE!

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

November 10, 2011 The T T ech alk 7

LAST WEEKS SOLUTION

WEEKLYHOROSCOPE
Aries March 21 April 19 In matters involving love and romance, things might get a little sticky today. You might want to charge ahead with a plan, while a close partner wants to sit, discuss, and work things out together. Tempers might flare. Youd do well to be ready to compromise. A hotheaded approach will do more harm than good. Taurus Apr 20 - May 20 Love will probably be on your mind most of today, so give your heart your full attention. Youre having trouble communicating with a loved one now, so try to be patient. He moves left and you move right. You move left and she moves right. Each time you bump into each other. Let the other person make the first move. Gemini May 21 - Jun 20 Issues regarding love and romance are in your favor. Theres a strong force spurring you to take action. Heed this helpful energy. Feel free to display yourself openly in the social arena. Talk among friends could be rewarding for you now. All sorts of connections are favored for you today. Cancer Jun 21 - Jul 22 Tension in the romance department may arise for you. You want to get things started in a relationship thats important to you, yet something always seems to stand in the way of the plan. Instead of trying to sidestep your way into the picture, take a direct approach. If you dont try, youre just as bad off as if youd tried and failed. Go for it. Leo Jul 23 - Aug 22 You may feel the urge to put your loved one on a pedestal today. You want to see him or her as the perfect mate for you. Youre willing to go to great lengths to bring this person pleasure. Youre wearing your rose-colored glasses, so very little will convince you of anything but the fact that things are perfect and beautiful. Virgo Aug 23 - Sep 22 Romance isnt going perfectly for you. Things may be a bit unclear in this realm. Events may crop up today that will make it hard for you to ignore the issue any longer. Communication is key to helping you sort through the feelings associated with these issues. Dont be too judgmental in your approach. Libra Sep 23 - Oct 22 Love and romance are most certainly in the cards today. Play the hand youre dealt and you should come away from the table victorious. Theres some transformation that may take place regarding issues of the heart. Dont compromise yourself in any way. Settle for nothing but the best. This is a day to shine. Scorpio Oct 23 - Nov 21 Issues regarding romance could be a big part of the picture today. The scales could tip either way in terms of your success at this game. The decision is up to you. Youre probably better off keeping things light and entertaining. Reveal the scope of your passionate and powerful emotions on another day

www.horoscopes.com.net
Sagittarius Nov 22 - Dec 21 Matters of the heart are in your favor today. You should prepare for a day full of social activities and good conversation. Your creative spirit may also be heightened. You cant go wrong picking the right item in a clothing store or flea market. Your taste for the elegant is impeccable, so feel free to indulge. Capricorn Dec 22 - Jan 19 You might focus on romance today, but its possible that youre having problems figuring out a way to express your feelings. Theres power influencing the scene, and certainly no shortage of passion. You might find that theres a bit of superficiality to the situation that makes it hard to commit with all of your energy. Aquarius Jan 20 - Feb 18 When it comes to issues regarding romance, dont hold back today. Things are working in your favor. You shouldnt hesitate to act forcefully and confidently. Show others that youre serious. Dont back down as things heat up even more. This is a sign that things are progressing in your favor and you shouldnt mistake this intensity for anything but true passion. Pisces Feb 19 - Mar 20 The center of your power might find it difficult to commit to anything today. Issues regarding love and romance could arise, and you may feel the need to start something moving in this department. You may be indecisive about which way to go. Spruce up and get out in the social arena. You can let someone else take the lead from there.

BestCrosswords.com - Puzzle #1 for July 8, 2011 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Across Across 1. Pro ___ 15 16 1- Pro ___; 5- Hang around; 9- 14 5. Hang around 9. Temporary paper currency Temporary paper currency; 1417 18 19 14. Asian sea Exclamation of Asian sea; 1515. Exclamation style; 17fright; 16- Dress of fright 20 21 22 23 16. Dress18- Seaport in NW Clothes; style 17. Clothes One-celled Morocco; 2024 25 26 27 18. Seaport22- NW Morocco protozoan; in Metal-bearing 20. One-celled protozoan mineral; 23- Card game for 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 22. Metal-bearing mineral three; 24- Metrical foot; 2623. Card game28- Excess; 32Ladies of Sp.; for three 36 37 38 39 24. Metrical foot 37- Fidelity; Arrested; 36- Help; 26. Ladies of Sp. 39- Preceding, poetically; 4040 41 42 43 44 28. Excess mother; 42- Group Don Juan's 32. Arrested Cosmonaut 45 46 47 48 49 character; 4436. Help 45- Spanish Mister; 47Gagarin; 37. Fidelity of the seasons; 49- 50 51 52 53 Goddesses 39. Preceding,Pardon; 52Drunkard; 50- poetically 54 55 56 40. Don Juans mother Snobbish conduct; 54- Profit; 5642. Group character Box; 57- Soccer legend; 6057 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 44. Cosmonaut Gagarin 66Alway; 62- Apply chrism; 45. Spanish Mister Decorative style around 1900; 66 67 68 69 47. Goddesses of the 70- Like 69- Perceive as fact; seasons 49. Drunkard___ had a hit song salt; 71- Billy 71 72 50. Pardon Wedding"; 72- "___ 70 with "White 52. Snobbish(North Carolina's conduct quam videri" 74 75 54. Profit Puccini heroine; 74- 73 motto); 7356. Box Go it alone; 75- Architect Mies 57. Soccer legend van der ___; 12. Member of a great 59. Former Fords 60. Alway Peruvian people 61. Fix up 62. Apply chrism Down 13. Heating 63. Not ___ many words 66.Hindu music;style around Khachaturian; 3-fuel corm; 4- Although; 5- Buttonwood; 6Decorative 2- Composer 1ofEdible Switzerland 64. Snack 1900 aunt; 7- Lhasa ___; 8- A19. Capital 9- Gal of song; 10- Categorize; 11- Skating area; Acapulco long time; 21. Monetary unit 65. 69. Perceive of a great Peruvian people; 13- Heating of 19- Capital of Affectedly dainty as fact 12- Member fuel; Switzerland; 21Thailand 67. South American 70. Like salt of Thailand; 25- Thin soup; 27- Battery size; 28- Monetary unit of India; 29-tuber Monetary unit 25. Thin soup 68. Youve got mail co. 71. Billy ___ had a hit song 31- A Musketeer; 33- Wingless insect; 34- Diamond flaw?; 35Queues; 30- Perfect places; 27. Battery size with 38- Hard outgrowths; Divinity; White Wedding 41- 28. Monetary unit of43- Brazil's largest city; 46- Narrow inlet; Caused by animals; India 72. ___ quam videri In ___ of; 53- Commission agent; 55- One of the Leeward Islands; 5748- Abba of Israel; 5129. Queues (North Carolinas motto) Gone by; 58- Switch ending; 59- Former Fords; 61- Fix up; 63- Not LAST WEEKS SOLUTION ___ many words; 64- Snack; 30. Perfect places 73. Puccini heroine 31. A Musketeer "You've got mail" co.; 65-Go it alone 74. Affectedly dainty; 67- South American tuber; 68- BestCrosswords.com - Puzzle #1 for July 7, 2011 B S T F Across 75. Architect Mies van der___ 33. Wingless insect in pitch; 5- Beancurd; 9- A A S T A O O U S A B E R 1L G E G E S T 34. Diamond flaw?Low sword; 14- Arguing; 15- T I Cavalry Sleep like ___; 16- Discharge; N O N P A R E I L L E A S E 17- Peerless; 19- Buy 35. Divinity alternative; 20- Baby; 21- Unit of Down volume; bucket; 38. Hard outgrowths 23- Coal of TNT; 25- I N F A N T L I T E R Eternity; 26- Part 291. Hindu music S E R I Norse goddess; 3041. Caused by animals 33- Minor, in law; H C U T T L E A R O N T T O N Reassignment; E L R E P T I I 2. Composer Khachaturian 34- Owl's cry; 35- Delhi wrap; 43. Brazils largest38- French vineyard; 40- Swirl; city P E T I T S C R E A K 3. Edible corm 41- Exaggerate; 46. Narrow inlet 47- Expert critic; 44- Alleviate; S A R I C R U E D D Y 49- Convened; 4. Although 52- Besides; 53- Building add48. Abba of IsraelHot 54- Hug; 56-59- Stem; 62- O V E R D O A L L A Y on; Ruhr city; 58water tank; 5. Buttonwood C O N N O I S S E U R S A T Mark off the boundaries of; 6451. In ___ of Japanese dish; 65- Alcoholic 6. Acapulco aunt drink; 66- Discharge; 53. Commission agent the taro; 67- Stigma; A N D E L L E M B R A C E 68- Corm of 697. Lhasa ___ E S S E N B O I L E R Receiver Jerry; 55. One of the S T A L K D E M A R C A T E 8. A long time Down Leeward Islands 2- Immediately; 31- Expel; S U S H I G R O G E M I T 9. Gal of song Wicked; 4- Mar. honoree; 557. Gone by Small, sassy woman; 6- Cheer S T A I N E D D O R I C E 10. Categorize for Manolete; 7- Thwart; 8- More gruesome; 9- Containing element #34; 10- Antiquing agent; 11- Actress Arthur; 12- Double curve; 58. Switch ending Hwy.; 18- Cave; 22- Small children; 24- Heroic; 26- Bound; 27- Highway; 28- Black; 311311. Skating area
Go back | Print | Help
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 17 20 23 29 15 16 19 18 21 22 24 25 26 27 28 30 31 32 33 34 35 41 47 52 36 37 38 39 40 42 43 44 45 46 48 49 50 51 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 64 67 60 61 62 65 68 63 66 69

CROSSWORDPUZZLE

www.sudoku-puzzles.net

Gillette razors; 32- Deuce topper; 33- Fishing reel; 35- Caribbean dance music; 36- Mary Kay competitor; 37- Tear; 39- Peter Fonda title role; 42- Soft leather; 43- Lubricates; 45- Back pain; 46- Shady recess; 48- Heavy hammer; 49- Italian sausage; 50- Pertaining to vinegar; 51Cylindrical; 55- Kitchen gadget; 56- K-12; 57- Dweeb; 59- Draft org.; 60- Boy king; 61- Botanist Gray; 63- Vespa rider, perhaps;

WEEKLYWEATHER
TODAY
HIGH 60 LOW 36

www.accuweather.com
SATURDAY
HIGH 71 LOW 57

DAILY U

Email feedback to dwyer@latech.edu

FRIDAY
HIGH 66 LOW 41

SUNDAY
HIGH 78 LOW 58

MONDAY HIGH 77 LOW 59

TUESDAY HIGH 78 LOW 49

WEDENSDAY HIGH 70 LOW 52

>

TOP DAWG from pg. 1

but he believes students should be able to address their ideas objectively from the larger perspective of the marketplace. The NVC offers Idea Pitch winners a chance to move one step closer to making their ideas a reality. Business professionals mentor teams, and Bulldog Entrepreneurs sponsor helpful business planning seminars in the months before the championship. As the teams prepare for the championship, they will also prepare better ways to prove that they are the Top Dawg.

>

CYCLISTS from pg. 1

Stoppleworth and other cyclists are currently looking into fundraisers that would allow them to put up cautionary signs or designate biking lanes. If you can make your presence known, then people will get your point, Stoppleworth said. Cyclists and non-cyclists need to work together.

tion systems, said some of the ideas were well thought out, but it makes him wonder what he will see presented at the NVC. It makes me ask the obvious questionif this is so obvious, why hasnt it been done? Shim said. Is anyone already doing it? He also said students have focused great effort on their ideas,

Email comments to rjk007@latech.edu.

pleworth said. We just made a 5-mile loop. Our next ride should have about 200 people. Cormier said participating in a large ride with a common purpose is a special experience that can really spark change. Its a unique experience riding your bike on a major thoroughfare without the fear of being hit by a car and being able to look over your shoulder and see a line of riders sideby-side taking up two blocks, Cormier said.

Email comments to asr017@latech.edu.

Skip Russell s

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

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

Federally Insured by NCUA

Wyly Tower

Keeny Hall

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK SERVING TECH STUDENTS SINCE 1965 YOUR PARENTS WASHED WITH US
08/11

together we thrive
975 Tech Dr, Ruston 800.522.2748 / www.lacapfcu.org

More Talk

8 The T T ech alk November 10, 2011

ED OR NS E

Retroactive bill threatens user-generated content

MARY TIMMONS & TAYLOR STEPHENS Associate Editor & Contributing Editor ed the bill to the U.S. Senate, said in the introduction of the bill that it is merely a way to protect the rights of companies and their copyrighted material. [Its a measure to] protect the investment Ameriefore LimeWire, before KaZaa, before can companies make in developing brands and creatNapster, before the Internet even be- ing content, Leahy said. [It will also] protect the jobs came a way to mingle with strangers associated with those investments. across the globe, there was no threat to Some, like Segal, arent convinced that the Internet copyrights or trademarks online. There Blacklist Bill is all too great. was barely a need to worry about whethMore than 400,000 Americans have urged their er or not the Internet would become an lawmakers to oppose the bill, Segal said in his column. uncontrollable force. But ultimately, we are depending on lawmakers, like However, the Internet has become an Sen. Wyden to make the final decisions and defend our entity that cant be stopped. No amount rights. of protection will prevent information of Even with a decent percentage of Americans in opany kind from going online. position, senators like Leahy remain convinced that the In September, the Protect IP Act came forward as a bill is in the best interest of everyone. retroactive means for the governKopfler said she doesnt unment to prevent the illegal distriderstand why more people dont bution of copyrighted content, acknow about this bill, and the fact cording to DemandProgress.org. that they dont is enough to quesDavid Segal, executive direction it. tor for Demand Progress, said in a I think its outrageous that the column in The Oregonian that the The Senate rationalized it public is unaware of this situaU.S. attorney general will have all tion, she said. It seems like its the power when deciding which by saying that the censorbeen kept under the radar. websites meet the criteria for IP ship will prevent criminal Taylor Holton, a freshman psyban. chology major, said the American It aims to permanently change activity, but censoring government has tried a number of our digital landscape, Segal said. times in the past to create a sort Thats why were calling it what it the Internet isnt going to of censorship for the Internet, but is: The Internet Blacklist Bill. or act is inmake the nation anymore each timeitaisnew bill immediately Though not an immediate actroduced, almost tion, Demand Progress states that secure than it already is. shot down. the bill could allow censorship of Im not worried because it the Internet as a whole, blocking hasnt worked so far, but theres all sites that employ user-generat- CAROLINE KOPFLER always the chance that it may ed content to stay afloat such as sophomore biomedical go through, Holton said. If this engineering major YouTube, Tumblr and Twitter. goes through, it will be a disgrace Caroline Kopfler, a sophomore to democracy. biomedical engineering major, Despite the lack of attention by said it a contradiction for our govmany Americans, the bill has capernment to push for other nations to remain open on tured the attention of larger names. the Internet, while the U.S. seems to be aiming to do Tim Berners-Lee, a British computer scientist and the opposite this own country. inventor of the World Wide Web, said on DemandThe Senate rationalizes it by saying that the cen- Progress.org that the inability to recognize what the sorship will prevent criminal activity, but censoring the Internet truly is about is where the lack of heed for Internet isnt going to make the nation anymore secure freedom of speech originates. than it already is, Kopfler said. We all use the web now for all kinds of parts of our She said the simple introduction of this bill is shock- lives, some trivial, some critical to our life as part of a ing to her. social world, Berners-Lee said. In the spirit of going Im at a loss for words, she said. I dont under- back to Magna Carta, we require a principle that: No stand their reasoning for wanting this. person or organization shall be deprived of their ability The Protect IP Act is largely supported by mem- to connect to others at will without due process of law, bers of the U.S. Congress. However, Oregon Sen. Ron with the presumption of innocence until found guilty. Wyden has outwardly opposed the Internet Blacklist Neither governments nor corporations should be alBill and has put a hold on bill, blocking it from passage lowed to use disconnection from the Internet as a way this session. of arbitrarily furthering their own aims. The Internet represents the shipping lane of the Whether or not the inventor of the World Wide Web 21st century, Wyden said in a statement. It is increas- can say enough to protect the use of user-generatedingly in Americas economic interest to ensure that the content-based websites remains unknown, but with Internet is a viable means for American innovation, a larger portion of Americans and others taking commerce and the advancement of our ideals that note of the Protect IP Act, the question of whether empower people around the world. or not this bill will be supported for long is sure to be In the statement, Wyden also said the Protect IP Act answered. presents itself as a threat to our economic future and to our international objectives. Email comments to However, Vermont Sen. Patrick Leahy, who present- mnt005@latech.edu and tds026@latech.edu.

The

facts:
The bill itself:
Bill S. 3840, the Combating Online Infringement and Counterfeits Act (COICA) otherwise known as the Internet Blacklist Bill

COICAs purpose:

The attorney general can add Internet domain names to the blacklist with a court order.

Safety benefits:

The bill would provide security from legal liability as well as reducing copyright infringements on the web.

Enforcement:

If any party served with an order by the attorney general fails to comply, a lawsuit against the party could be filed.

Those in favor:

Supporters of the COICA include the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the Motion Picture Association of America, Screen Actors Guild and Viacom.

Those opposed:

Politicians Ron Wyden and David Segal are among those who dont want the bill to pass.

Websites in danger:

Any website containing copyrighted material could be blocked. Sites such as YouTube, Twitter and Tumblr would be at risk.

Effects on society:

With the ability to block websites, this bill could have an enormous impact on popular sites and material users post and share.

Sports Talk
SARAH BROWN Co-Sports Editor After defeating Fresno State 41-21 in the annual Battle of the Bone game, the Bulldogs will hit the road to play Ole Miss at 6:30 p.m. Saturday. Ole Miss is coming off of a 30-13 loss at Kentucky and currently stands 2-7, while the Bulldogs are on a fourgame winning streak and are seeking their fifth straight win. Tech currently stands 5-4, and the Bulldogs will be bowl eligible if they win Saturday night. The University of Mississippi Athletics Director Pete Boone announced Monday that this is the final season for head coach Houston Nutt. Head coach Sonny Dykes gave Nutt a lot of credit for his coaching throughout the years. He has obviously been a very successful head coach and has won at a lot of different places through his career, Dykes said. You hate to see it happen during the season. Dykes said his team would focus on winning Saturdays game and nothing else. All we can control is what happens to us, Dykes said. We dont care about their situation, and we just have to take care of business on our end and get our guys ready to play. This game is going to excite our players, because anytime you go on the road to face an SEC team, it is exciting. We want to see how we stack up against a Southeastern Conference team, and our guys will be ready to play.

November 10, 2011 The T T ech alk 9

Bulldogs brace for Rebels

less than a hard fought battle. Dykes said the Bulldogs road success is based on getting out and making plays happen. We have seven road games, and we have to embrace it, Dykes said. Our guys decided early on that it doesnt help sitting around talking about long plane rides, and that it just matters to go out and play the game. It is a first class operation, staying in good hotels, eating good meals and treating the players the right way. It helps with their mentality that we do it that way. I kind of like it, and our players do too. Dykes said confidence and getting comfortable has helped junior quarterback Colby Cameron with his recent success. I talked to Terry Bradshaw a couple of weeks ago, and Terry told me that the best thing that happened to him was that he got the job and didnt play well and got pulled and watched the game from the sideline, Dykes said. When he got a chance to watch the game from the sideline, it made him a better quarterback. He was able to see how the other guy handled things. I think Colby learned from watching Nick (Isham), and I think Nick is benefitting now from watching Colby. I do think that there is a lot of knowledge and experience that can be gained from sitting back and watching the other guy. Saturdays game will be shown on Cox Sports Television and live stats will be available via Gametracker located on latechsports.com.

FROM THE SPORTS DESK

with ANNA CLAIRE THOMAS

Dawgs just inches from being bowl eligible

Photo by Dalton Runberg

Junior wide receiver Quinton Patton is met by his teammates after catching one of his two touchdowns against Fresno State. The Bulldogs will travel to play Ole Miss at 6:30 p.m. Saturday in Oxford, Miss. Senior linebacker Adrien Cole said head coach, Cole said. I think the playhe expects Ole Miss to be a challenge ers are going to come hard this week after the recent coaching changes. and try to make a statement. We are I see a team that looks to bounce actually a good team coming out here back after the recent release of their preparing, and I dont expect anything

Email comments to sdb035@latech.edu.

Promotions set for Tech students for NMSU game

MEDIA RELATIONS Louisiana Tech With a possible bowl berth on the line, Louisiana Tech will be hosting New Mexico State in its final regular season game of the year on Saturday, Nov. 26 at 3 p.m. at Joe Aillet Stadium. Although the game will be played during the Thanksgiving break, Louisiana Tech students are encouraged to return to campus for the important Western Athletic Conference contest which could determine the league championship and the Bulldogs postseason plans. A number of promotions are planned exclusively for Tech students for the game, including a free pig roast in the DawgPound (Hideaway Park) starting at noon as free food will be served while supplies lasts. In addition to the food, Tech Athletics will also provide a live band for entertainment in the DawgPound as well. Free items will also be given away throughout the game to Tech students in attendance. The residence halls on campus will also be opened starting at noon on that Saturday.

Techsters set for season debut

ANNA CLAIRE THOMAS Co-Sports Editor The Louisiana Tech Lady Techsters are poised to start the 2011-12 season off with much success when they take on Missouri State at 7 p.m. Friday in the Thomas Assembly Center in what is sure to be a must-see meeting for Tech fans. The Lady Techsters wrapped up preseason play Tuesday as they successfully handled Delta State 61-48 in their last exhibition before taking to the court for the first time this fall in a regular season match-up. The Techsters are looking to pick up where they left off last season after notching a 24-8 overall record in 2010-11 and earning its 27th NCAA tournament berth in the programs history. Tech is looking for a productive season out of their upperclassmen after losing a fixture on the team in All-American Adrienne Johnson and three other key senior leaders. The Lady Techsters are sure to bring plenty of experience to the court in 2011-12 as they are returning five seniors to the court in guards Jasmine Bendolph, Whitney Jones, Kiara Young and Angie Felton and also forward Shantale BrambleDonaldson. To go along with five seniors on her squad, head coach Teresa Weatherspoon has added a handful of fresh faces, with four freshmen added to the roster. Missouri State, a team out of the Missouri Valley Conference, will roll into Ruston coming off one of its most productive seasons that saw the Lady Bears go 24-11 last year. Tech fans unable to attend can catch all the action on Gametracker on latechsports.com while subscribers can see the game streamed live on LATech All-Access. The game will also be broadcasts on the radio on ESPN 97.7 FM for Tech fans wanting to keep track of all the action. All Lady Techster fans new and old are encouraged to attend the matchup and watch as Tech looks to defend their home court.

Photo courtesy of Media Relations

Email comments to act013@latech.edu.

Senior guard Jasmine Bendolph runs the court in an exhibition game. The season kicks off at 7 p.m. Friday in the Thomas Assembly Center as the Techsters take on Missouri State.

Dogs plan to run past Choctaws

REINA KEMPT Sports Reporter The mens basketball team is preparing for its first regular season game against the Mississippi College Choctaws and their game plan is to run them off the court, literally. The two teams will face off at 3 p.m. Sunday at the Thomas Assembly Center. With a new coach comes a new style of play; head coach Michael White has built this young team around running. After surviving a scare last week in an exhibition game against Texas A&M-Kingsville, the Bulldogs are looking to regroup and prepare themselves for the next match. Lonnie Smith, a sophomore guard, said it was hard to adapt to Whites new style of play after spending most of last year getting comfortable playing the way former head coach Kerry Rupp wanted. I spent a lot of time last year getting used to Rupps style but this year it is completely different, Smith said. It is very challenging to adapt. Smith has focused his summer around preparing for a new season. Pick-up games and strenuous weight lifting have played a major part of him getting better after getting his first taste of college basketball last year. He said most of the teams they have played against in the past were not running teams. The Bulldogs want to use that to their advantage. The last time Smith could recall running so much was in high school when running was a key factor in basketball games. There were no WAC teams playing fast, Smith said. We want to take that to our advantage. Smith says Whites main offensive focus is just running the floor and everyone playing their game. They have no specific go-to player. Smith said he believes that is why White recruited so many quick young men. Freshmen like Raheem Appleby and Kenneth Smith has proven to be two of the quickest guys on the squad. J.L. Lewis, a junior center/forward, said though they plan to run, Whites overall focus is defense. Being defensive-minded is a mindset that is different than what Smith and Lewis were built around last season. Both Lewis and Smith said they completely understand and buy into what White has been teaching them. Lewis added that he believes Tech fans will be shocked with their progress once the season is underway. We are really underestimated but I think the fans are going to be shocked this year, Lewis said. We have really been working hard. Though Mississippi College is a Division III school, it has proven to be quite the competitor against bigger name programs. Last season it came within three points of upsetting the University of New Orleans. With a challenging schedule ahead, Lewis said they look to take the season one game at a time. Every game leads to the next one, Lewis said. Everything just goes together, preparing for this game is just like preparing for the next and for Arkansas. These opening games few games will be a test to see where the program stands and the Bulldogs are confident that their team is more prepared than anyone expected.

he Bulldog football team have been inches from greatness all season long. Whether it be a twopoint heartbreaker on the road to Southern Miss or a stunning blown lead to a now undefeated Houston squad at home, Tech has had its fair share of ups and downs during its 2011 campaign. Tech fans were starting to wonder if their team was on the verge of being diagnosed with bipolar disorder. But something strange happened between all the turmoil and heartbreak that comes during a rebuilding year. Tech put together a team, despite detrimental injuries to their key offensive guys, that learned how to win in the most dire situations. And not only have they learned how to win, but they have become something no one could have ever expected this time two months ago: road warriors. The Bulldogs have won four straight games, turning a dismal 1-4 record into an above .500 5-4 record with a real possibility of becoming bowl eligible by seasons end. The Bulldogs have run from one extreme to the other in 2011 as they have squeaked out close victories just when they needed them the most. Tech also put the rest of the conference on high alert after demolishing Western Athletic Conference foe Fresno State on Fresnos home turf to take a giant leap forward in the conference standings. The remaining three games have the Bulldogs in a promising position to be a serious contender for not only a bowl game, but also a WAC championship. With a winable game on the road against a struggling SEC opponent in the Ole Miss Rebels and two more conference games left on the schedule, including a game at Nevada, Tech seems poised to finish the season off stronger than ever. It is likely the Nov. 26 home game against New Mexico State at the Joe will be the key victory this team needs to get over the hump and head to its first bowl game since 2008, when then head coach Derek Dooley led the Dogs to the Independence Bowl title in Shreveport. Anna Claire Thomas is a senior journalism major from Monroe who serves as co-sports editor. Email comments to act013@latech.edu.

UPCOMING ATHLETICS

BULLDOG FOOTBALL at Ole Miss - 11/12 6:30 p.m. LADY TECHSTER BASKETBALL vs. Missouri State - 11/11 7 p.m. at Oral Roberts - 11/19 2:05 p.m. vs. Arkansas-Little Rock 11/22 7 p.m. MENS BASKETBALL vs. Mississippi College 11/13 3 p.m. at Texas-Arlington 11/19 7 p.m. LADY TECHSTER VOLLEYBALL at Hawaii - 11/10 11 p.m. at San Jose State - 11/12 9 p.m. vs. Arkansas-Pine Bluff 11/15 7 p.m.

Photo by Kyle Kight

Freshman guard Kenneth Smith is one of many underclassmen on the team this season. The Bulldogs tip off at 3 p.m. Sunday in the TAC against Mississippi College.

Email comments to rjk007@latech.edu.

10 The T T ech alk November 11, 2011