LA Tech Homecoming Week 2015

image via LA Tech Sports

Ruston, La. is Bulldog Country, and every year Louisiana Tech's Homecoming Week proves to be a time when the whole town comes together to celebrate school pride and cheer on our Bulldogs. The official calendar of events for Homecoming Week 2015 has been released and the week is packed with exciting happenings! While you can find a full, detailed schedule of events here, we've highlighted some of the week's events that are open to the public below. 

Monday- 11/2

Senior Recital by Christina Amos; Recital Hall - 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday- 11/3

Union Board Talent Show; Louisiana Tech Student Center – 7 p.m.

The Reduced Shakespeare Company’s Complete History of Comedy Abridged presented by the Louisiana Tech Concert Association; Howard Auditorium – 7:30 p.m.
For tickets, contact the Howard Center for the Performing Arts Box Office at 318-257-3942

Wednesday- 11/4

NPHC Unity Step Show; Memorial Gym – 7 p.m.

Thursday- 11/5

Ben Rector Concert presented by Union Board; Howard Auditorium – 7 p.m.

For ticket information call the LA Tech Union Board at 318-257-4237. 

Friday- 11/6

Alumni Awards Luncheon; Davison Athletics Complex - 12 p.m.

Contact Barbara Swart at 318-255-7950 or barbara@latechalumni.org for tickets and more info.

Class of 1965 Reunion; Davison Athletics Complex - 5:30 p.m.
Contact Barbara Swart at 318-255-7950 or barbara@latechalumni.org for more info. 

Homecoming Parade; Through Campus - 5:30 p.m.

Pep Rally and Presentation of Court; Thomas Assembly Center- during half-time of the Lady Techster game. Game starts at 6:30 p.m.  

Lawrence Gibbs and the Louisiana Tech Jazz Ensemble; Howard Auditorium -8 p.m.

Saturday- 11/7

Breakfast with Champ; Louisiana Tech Student Center - 9:00 a.m.

Contact Barbara Swart at 318-255-7950 or barbara@latechalumni.org for tickets and more info.

Alumni Tailgate; Argent Pavilion - 11:30 a.m.

Bulldog Football vs North Texas; Joe Aillet Stadium – 2:30 p.m.
Visit www.latechsports.com/tickets or call 318-257-3631 for tickets.

We hope that everyone will come out for these great events to celebrate Homecoming Week! For more information on Homecoming events and activities taking place on and around the Louisiana Tech campus, call the Marbury Alumni Center at 318-255-7950 or visit www.latechalumni.org/homecoming2015.  

Sundown Tavern: A Local Ruston Landmark

Written By Tori Ward, CVB Marketing/PR Assistant

Sundown Tavern is a quaint, local restaurant located at 111 E. Park Ave in Ruston, La. Loved by locals and visitors alike, Sundown is a landmark restaurant that's had a presence in Ruston for 40 years. Take a look at our profile on this unique local favorite. 

Sundown Tavern on Park Ave.

Atmosphere: Sundown Tavern, known in this area for its live music, is a quaint little restaurant/bar in downtown Ruston that has an atmosphere all its own. The restaurant is dimly lit and complete with eclectic décor that pulls in local influences. The inside is split into two sections with tables and booths in the front for dining and a bar area in the back of the restaurant. If you feel like having a beer, playing pool, throwing darts or listening to some great live music, then the bar at Sundown is your spot. 

Quite arguably the best part of Sundown is its spacious outdoor patio. You can enjoy a meal outside with the breeze blowing and let the kids draw on the ground with sidewalk chalk. You may even catch a band playing out there on a pretty night. The patio is just downright charming with its fun and assorted decorations that have a homemade touch. 

The clientele at Sundown is just as eclectic as the décor. While the restaurant is definitely a family-friendly spot, you’ll also find college kids, professionals and everyone in between enjoying the local favorite. 

Patio decor at Sundown 

Patio at Sundown 

Sundown regulars say they keep coming back for the friendly service and unique atmosphere.

Menu at a glance: Sundown may not have an extensive menu, but they have southern favorites and they know how to cook them! Try one of their tasty appetizers, a juicy burger, a hot sandwich, a classic po-boy, or get creative and build your own sandwich. They also have great lunch specials that don’t disappoint. Locals say you can’t go wrong with their grilled chicken nachos, the Buster Burger or a turkey melt.

Muffaletta at Sundown 

A little something extra: Sundown is definitely one of the best spots in Ruston to hear local bands play several times a week. Feel like expressing yourself? Sundown hosts an open mic night every other Tuesday where anyone is welcome to play music, read poetry or perform a comedy act.  You can always find out who’s playing at Sundown by following them on Facebook. 

Sundown Tavern is open Monday - Saturday 11am-12am and Sunday 11am-10pm. For more information on Sundown and other local restaurants, visit experienceruston.com. 

Tori Ward is a proud Louisiana native, born and raised in Shreveport, La. She is an alum of LSU and has a passion for all things PR. Tori is an avid movie watcher, coffee fanatic and lover of the outdoors. She is currently attending Louisiana Tech to pursue a master’s degree in business administration.  

Tori’s Travels: Football and Fashion in Ruston

Written by Tori Ward, CVB Marketing/PR Assistant

Well hello everyone! It’s been a hot minute since I’ve shared about my recent travels in Ruston, so let me jump right in. If I had to pick the two things I look forward to doing most on the weekends, it would be shopping (sorry bank account) and watching football games. Thankfully, Ruston provides me with plenty of opportunities to get my fashion and football fill.

Cheering on the Bulldogs at the LA Tech vs. FIU game

LA Tech Football

Ruston, La. is Bulldog Country, and that means we count down the days to LA Tech football games. Having graduated from LSU, I was sure that I already had the most fun college game days I would ever experience. Guess what, I was wrong.

I’ve been to two home football games so far and I’ve had a blast at both! From tailgating with friends to jumping up and down in the stands as the Bulldogs make yet another beautiful touchdown, I’ve found that LA Tech game days are full of excitement. 

Starting game day by tailgating in a sea of Bulldog fans is quite the experience. There are tons of people out tailgating hours before the game, yet the atmosphere remains welcoming and laid-back. Everyone is super hospitable and friendly, so don’t miss out on stopping by a tailgate or two. If you haven’t been to a LA Tech football game, then you’re seriously missing out and should get yourself a ticket to one of the three remaining home games.

Display at Ruston Florist and Boutique

Ruston Florist and Boutique

I did that thing where I judged a book by its cover; I know, not cool. But I assumed when I heard the name “Ruston Florist” that it was strictly a flower shop and I would probably never need to go there. Yet again, I was mistaken. Ruston Florist does create incredible flower arrangements, but it’s also a gorgeous boutique that carries some amazing designers and products. You’ll find clothing, jewelry, accessories, home décor, candles and more in this charming little boutique. They even do Fashion Show Luncheons twice a month that are a great way to mingle and see upcoming trends and styles.

I got the chance to go to one of their Fashion Show Luncheons and it was such a cute and fun event! I loved that they showed different looks for all ages and occasions, and the food was 100% homemade and absolutely delicious. I definitely plan on going again and making a girls day out of it!

Ruston Fashion Week
Ruston Fashion Week was all the buzz in North Louisiana last week. With 25 local businesses participating, it was a busy seven days full of fun events hosted at local shops. I was seriously impressed by the creativity displayed in the weeks’ events and by the turnout from the public.

I attended the event that was put on by The Fashion of Ruston called “A Stylish Affair.” It included a full-force fashion show as well as a cocktail reception with amazing food and drinks. Y’all, I was blown away. I could not believe how cool this event was. The atmosphere was upbeat and fun, the runway looked incredible, the models were on point; I could go on and on. Basically, everything was flawless. If you missed the events of Ruston Fashion Week this year, then you seriously missed out. I can’t wait to see how this week of fashion events evolves and grows in the future!

"A Stylish Affair" event at The Fashion

Fashion show put on by The Fashion

Well, that wraps up my recent football and fashion adventures. Keep checking the blog for more of my travels and for the behind-the-scenes look at what’s happening in Ruston. See y’all around town!

Tori Ward is a proud Louisiana native, born and raised in Shreveport, La. She is an LSU alumna and has a passion for all things PR. Tori is an avid movie watcher, coffee fanatic and lover of the outdoors. She is currently attending Louisiana Tech to pursue a master’s degree in business administration. 

Quickest Ruston Eats for Interstate Travelers

Written By Tori Ward, CVB Marketing/PR Assistant

If you find yourself passing through Ruston, La. on I-20 with just enough time to grab a quick bite to eat, do yourself a favor and skip the fast food chains. Instead, try a local spot that offers quick service and dynamite food. We’ve picked a handful of fast, local Ruston eats that are sure to leave you coming back for more on your next trip through town.

La Bamba Mexican Restaurant
La Bamba has become a local favorite for its tasty assortment of Tex-Mex cuisine. Add in their always-speedy service and great prices, and you have a perfect place to sit down and have a quick lunch or dinner. Try their signature queso, the Burrito La Bamba or their homemade tamales. Location/Hours: 207 N Service Rd E; Mon-Sun: 11am - 10pm

Burrito La Bamba, La Bamba Mexican Restaurant 

Brister’s Smokehouse BBQ
If you’re in the mood for barbeque, Brister’s Smokehouse is the place to go. Located right off the intestate, Brister’s is an ideal spot for travelers looking for a hearty and delicious meal. Feel free to sit down in this homey little restaurant or take your meal to-go on the road. Locals rave about their homemade BBQ sauce, the scatterload sandwich and the BBQ nachos. Location/Hours: 1420 Cooktown Road; Mon-Sat: 10am - 8pm

BBQ Sandwiches, Brister's Smokehouse 

Don’t have time to sit down and eat? No worries, we have some easy and quick to-go options too.

Tacos the Guero
Tacos the Guero is the only food stand in Ruston; however, it is often referred to by locals as “the taco truck.” This unique taco stand offers a variety of tacos, tortas, quesadillas and burritos all made with fresh ingredients. The super-reasonable prices also make this a top pick if you’re traveling on a budget. People can’t stop talking about their authentically-delicious burritos. Location/Hours: 103 N Service Rd E; Mon-Sat: 11am - 7pm

Steak Burrito, Tacos the Guero

Pow Wow Deli
The Deli at Pow Wow Texaco might be the most unassuming spot off the interstate to grab some amazing food, but it does not disappoint. They claim to have “the best Cuban sandwich in North Louisiana,” and locals will tell you they couldn’t agree more. Pow Wow Deli also serves up classic Louisiana favorites, tamales and other tasty options. Kill two birds with one stone by filling up your gas tank and stomach all in one convenient stop. Location/Hours: 101 S Service Rd W; Mon-Sat: 10am -7pm

Cuban Sandwich, Pow Wow Texaco & Deli 

We hope these suggestions help you find a quick, yet delicious local meal on your next stop through Ruston. For more information on these and other Ruston Eats, visit experienceruston.com.

Tori Ward is a proud Louisiana native, born and raised in Shreveport, La. She is a Louisiana State University alumnae and has a passion for all things PR. Tori is an avid movie watcher, coffee fanatic and lover of the outdoors. She is currently attending Louisiana Tech to pursue a master’s degree in business administration. 

Ruston Fall Happenings

Written by Tori Ward, CVB Marketing/PR Assistant 

Fall is in full swing, and that means things are getting very busy here in Ruston, La.! There is a full calendar of events this fall ranging from fashion events to live music to beer tasting. It’s safe to say that we have something for everyone going on this season in Ruston.

If live music is your thing, then you’re in luck. The Eli Young Band and Pat Green will both be playing live at The Revelry of Ruston this fall. Additionally, The Dixie Center for the Arts is hosting The Davis & Johnson and Fabulous Equinox Orchestra on Oct. 23. If you’re looking to see a theatre production, then don’t miss The Foreigner performed by Ruston Community Theatre at The Dixie on Oct. 8-11.

Davis & Johnson and the Fabulous Equinox Orchestra, Oct. 23 at The Dixie

We’re excited about the first Ruston Fashion Week taking place on Oct. 5-10. This week will consist of various events hosted by stores all around Ruston. The Fashion Week finale will be "Fashion and Football," where everyone is invited to Railroad Park to tailgate for the LA Tech football away game.

Speaking of LA Tech football games, we have several home games coming up in Ruston. Don’t miss the ULL game on Oct. 3, where there will be a shuttle taking fans from Downtown Ruston to the Joe Aillet Stadium and back. We also have other exciting sporting events coming up this season, including the 2015 U.S. Women's Mid-Amateur at Squire Creek Country Club on Oct. 3-8.

Another event that is a Ruston favorite is right around the corner. You don’t want to miss the 6^th annual ARToberfest presented by NCLAC at the Norton Building on Oct. 23. Area home brewers will compete for the best brew while attendees sample their beers. The evening will also feature live music, food trucks and other fun activities.

ARToberfest, Oct. 23 at The Norton Building

Here’s a quick look at upcoming Ruston events:

Oct. 1- Eli Young Band live at The Revelry
Oct. 3- LA Tech Football vs. ULL
Oct. 3- Ruston Farmers Market Fall Season Starts
Oct. 3-8- 2015 U.S. Women's Mid-Amateur
Oct. 5- 10- Ruston Fashion Week
Oct. 8-11- The Foreigner at The Dixie
Oct. 10- Bollywood at Bonner
Oct. 15- Wiggin’ Out at Squire Creek Country Club
Oct. 23- The Jeremy Davis Fabulous Equinox Orchestra at The Dixie
Oct. 23- ARToberfest
Oct. 24- LA Tech Football vs. Middle Tennessee
Oct. 30- Downtown Howl’oween
Nov. 7- LA Tech Football vs. North Texas (Homecoming)
Nov. 7- Fall Into the Arts Festival
Nov. 14- Pat Green live at The Revelry

For more information on these and other events, check out our event calendar at experienceruston.com. 

Tori Ward is a proud Louisiana native, born and raised in Shreveport, La. She is an LSU alumna and has a passion for all things PR. Tori is an avid movie watcher, coffee fanatic and lover of the outdoors. She is currently attending Louisiana Tech to pursue a master’s degree in business administration.