09.16.15 - VOL. 12, NO. 4 - MAROONWEEKLY.COM
FREE PUBLICATION
KOPPE BRIDGE BAR & GRILL
CELEBRATING MORE THAN 20 YEARS OF SERVING AGGIELAND THE BEST BIG BURGER IN TOWN
11777 WELLBORN ROAD (979)764-2933 3940 HARVEY ROAD (979)776-2833
WWW.KOPPEBRIDGE.NET
meet the team
9
PUBLISHER Chris Shepperd BUSINESS MANAGER Leisha Shepperd MANAGING EDITOR Luke Murray STAFF WRITERS
Linley McCord Annabeth Reeb Adrianna Zampieri WRITING INTERNS Madison Matous Jordyn Smith Kaitlyn Trei MARKETING INTERN Laura Miller
4
11
DISTRIBUTION Cody Atkinson Lindsay Cox Daryl Dorman
17
Maroon Weekly is an independent, publication and is not affiliated with Texas A&M University. Maroon Weekly receives no student fees or university funding. Opinions are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the editor, publisher or the newspaper staff. Maroon Weekly is not liable for omissions, misprints or typographical errors. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the express consent of the publisher. © Copyright 2015 Campus Press LP
maroonweekly.com • Sept. 9, 2015 • MAROON WEEKLY • pg 3
Music Reviews
Iron Maiden Album: The Book of Souls Release Date: Sept. 4, 2015
By Jordyn Smith
Making their return with “The Book of Souls,” Iron Maiden re-establishes their classic sound: epic guitar riffs and stellar vocals. The album kicks off with “If Eternity Should Fail,” a track that highlights Bruce Dickinson’s awesome tenor range, accompanied with a background trumpet that adds an ominous element to the song. Tracks like “Speed of Light,” “The Great Unknown,” and “When the River Runs Deep” hold true to the iconic Maiden identity. Other tracks on the album, like “The Red and the Black” and “The Man of Sorrows,” compliment the high-power album with essences of slower rock ballads. Iron Maiden took risks throughout this album, hints of slick acoustic guitar intros turned out to be a nice change of pace before hitting you with the electric guitar. The gambles Iron Maiden took while making this album definitely paid off.
The Weeknd throws out a few collaborations with superstars and even features a song from a blockbuster movie on this record. “Earned It” made its way onto the album, a track that many will recognize from the movie “Fifty Shade of Grey.” Joining The Weeknd on this album is Ed Sheeran and Lana Del Ray. Sheeran chimes in on the track “Dark Times,” a brutally honest song about timing and its effect on relationships. Lana Del Ray collaborates with The Weeknd on “Prisoners,” displaying the vocal range of both artists—Lana Del Ray’s voice and style fit in perfectly with this track. Overall The Weeknd hits a high note with this release.
If you are a fan of Lorde or Ellie Goulding, “Badlands” should be at the top of your playlist. This album brings an eclectic mix of pop and electro with singer/songwriter tendencies. “Hold Me Down” and the “New Americana” are great jamming tracks that you’re bound to hear out at the club. “Colors” has catchy hooks with a unique flow to the lyrics that allows this track to break through and stand out in this album. “Gasoline” brings Halsey’s singer/ songwriter side out, overall a well-flowing song that has an interesting music to back it up. Halsey is able to harness pain, regret, and strength in this album to showcase a raw emotion that seems to be lacking in other recently released pop albums.
One of BCS’ favorite Red Dirt bands is back with their third album; Turnpike Troubadours are releasing their self-titled album on September 18. It has been a long three-year wait for many Turnpike fans. The group supposedly holed themselves up at an old chicken farm turned recording studio in Northern California to produce this album. Leading off is a track called “The Bird Hunters,” a Cajun-waltz that you are bound to hear at Harry’s sooner rather than later. Turnpike cranks it up with “The Mercury,” an up-beat track that is heavy with electric guitar with a smattering of fiddle licks. “Down Here,” the first released song from this album is a twangy, up-beat track with great fiddle and steel guitar. Turnpike’s new album does not disappoint. After hearing this album many will be looking forward to the next time they come to BCS.
pg 4 • MAROON WEEKLY •Sept. 9, 2015 • maroonweekly.com
Weeknd
Album: Beauty Behind the Madness Release Date: August 28, 2015
Halsey Album: Badlands
Release Date: August 28, 2015
Turnpike Troubadours Album: The Turnpike Troubadours Release Date: Sept. 18, 2015
1 - 4 B E D R O O M S AVA I L A B L E R O O M M AT E M AT C H I N G AVA I L A B L E FREE PARKING COMPUTER LABS WITH FREE PRINTING INDIVIDUAL STUDY ROOMS INDOOR & OUTDOOR FITNESS AREAS SAUNA & STEAMROOMS ON-SITE RETAIL
On the corner of Texas & University
Leasing Soon for August 2016! 1501 Northpoint Lane
979.703.6449
www.NorthPointCrossingTAMU.com
maroonweekly.com • Sept. 16, 2015 • MAROON WEEKLY • pg 5
Football Fridays in Downtown Bryan By Jordyn Smith
Get ready Aggieland, Downtown Bryan is presenting Football Fridays! Another weapon to the arsenal of entertainment provided by Downtown Bryan, what better to kick off an Aggie home game weekend than with a free concert? Football Friday is a great way to get the game-day weekend started—grab a bite to eat at one of Downtown Bryan’s restaurants/ pubs, do a little shopping at some of the local boutiques, and grab a few drinks before the music starts (we like Uncorked and Proudest Monkey ourselves). Football Friday is presented by the Downtown Bryan Association (DBA). “These Friday concerts are a fun way to start the weekend in Aggieland,” says Amanda Reynolds, the DBA program and events manager. “We encourage folks to come downtown for the concert before heading to Midnight Yell or tailgating activities.”
Upcoming Football Friday Concert Schedule: Sept. 18 - T. Sax Oct. 2 - Soul Track Mind Oct. 16 - El Tule Oct. 30 - Fright Nights Nov. 6 - KP & The Boom Boom Nov. 13 - TBA
Staying in Bryan for the weekend? Or maybe you just want to avoid the parking chaos at Kyle on gameday? Remember that Downtown Bryan offers a free gameday shuttle. Pickup/ Drop-off is on Regent St. between the Clara B. Mounce Library and the Roy G. Kelly Parking Garage. Leave your car in Downtown Bryan, catch the Texas A&M football game, then hop on the shuttle to carry the after-party back to Downtown Bryan hotspots. Avoid traffic, the headache, and keep the party going.
pg 6 • MAROON WEEKLY • Sept. 16, 2015 • maroonweekly.com
College Station boasts one of highest collective intelligence ratings amongst U.S. cities, but did you know that it also holds a high spot on the list of fit/ active communities as well? In Aggieland, it’s about more than just being book smart—you need to eat smart, too. College students are often limited by a budget, and a limited budget sometimes means that you don't necessarily make the healthiest choices at the supermarket (it basically falls under the “hamburgers are cheaper than a salad” argument). Instead, you may find yourself hanging out in the prepackaged food section of the grocery store instead of the fresh produce area, but remember, your health isn't something you should compromise on. The Money Wise Aggie association is hosting a seminar, Eating Smart on a Budget, to help teach college students ways to save money while still eating healthy. The seminar will be held in room 236 of the Pavilion on September 17 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. If you cannot attend that session, a second event will be held on November 4. If you can’t attend either, then here’s a simple tip: investing your money in a crock-pot is a smart way to save both money and time in the long run. Using a crock-pot (at least 4 quarts in size) will allow you to cook a large quantity of food that will last you for a few days, or you can freeze the excess food in individual containers to eat on days when you don’t have the time to cook. It doesn't require a lot of attention like conventional cooking. Just throw your ingredients in the pot first thing in the morning, turn on the crock-pot, and go about your day. By dinnertime, you’ll have a healthy meal ready and waiting. Available online are a number of delicious crock-pot recipes that only require a few ingredients. Below are two easy, simple, and healthy recipes to help you get you started. Lemon Pepper Chicken with Asparagus • 1 to 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs • 1 tpsb + 1 tsp olive oil • 1 lemon • 1 lb asparagus, trimmed • 1/2 tsp lemon pepper seasoning • 1/4 tsp salt • 1/4 tsp thyme
Place the chicken in the crock-pot first. Over the chicken, drizzle 1 tbsp of olive oil and sprinkle the thyme and half of the salt. Slice the lemon and place on top of the chicken; then place the asparagus on top and drizzle the remaining olive oil. Finally, add the rest of the salt and the lemon seasoning. Cook on low for six hours.
Lentil Soup • 1 cup of lentils that have been sorted and rinsed • 4 cups chicken stock • 2 carrots, sliced • 3 cloves of garlic, minced • 1 onion, diced • 1/2 tsp dried thyme leaves • Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all of the ingredients in the crock-pot and cover. Cook on low for approximately eight to ten hours or until all ingredients are tender. maroonweekly.com • Sept. 16, 2015 • MAROON WEEKLY • pg 7
BR AND NEW STUDENT COTTAGES
COMING AUGUST 2016! Leasing Office Now Open! 1147 Holleman Drive S. Turn onto Holleman Dr. from 2818 & our leasing office will be on your left
Join Our Interest List by Visiting W W W.T H E J U N C T I O N A T C O L L E G E S T A T I O N . C O M
979-721-9160 Follow us on Facebook for up-to-date information! Facebook.com/TheJunctionAtCollegeStation
pg 8 • MAROON WEEKLY • Sept. 16, 2015 • maroonweekly.com
BCS Getaways
Bryan-College Station may have that celebrated small-town feel, but don’t be tricked into thinking there isn’t anything to do in this sleepy little town. The BCS area has more to offer than fall day tailgates and nights out on Northgate.
Messina Hof is Bryan’s very own winery, and they have more than just wine tasting. Messina Hof hosts By Madison Matous a variety of events, including behind-the-scenes cellar tours, sunset tours, Tour de Wines Tuesdays, Aggie Night Out and more. This week Messina Hof has trivia night Saturday, September 19. They will also be hosting a cooking party, where they will teach you how to poach like a pro on September 20. For more information on these events visit messinahof.com. Royalty Pecan Farms, right down the road in Caldwell, is a breathtaking destination and just a short 20-minute drive away. Every Saturday, they give orchard tours at 12:30 p.m. and on the first Saturday of every month they host a free wine tasting. For more on these and future events visit royaltypecans.com. The Bush Presidential Library and the city of College Station will be hosting outdoor movies later this month. For some family fun, visit the Bush Library for a showing of Disney’s “Planes” on Friday, September 25. Grab a blanket and some refreshments and head over at 7 p.m. for games; the movie will start just after sunset. For more information on this and other events at the Bush Presidential Library visit their website, 41bush.org. Don’t forget about Wolf Pen Creek. They will be hosting a showing of “Back to the Future” on Wednesday, October 21. Gates will open at 6 p.m. and the movie will begin later in the evening for a perfect mid-week escape. For more information on this event, visit the Special Events page of the city of College Station’s website, cstx.org.
maroonweekly.com • Sept. 16, 2015 • MAROON WEEKLY • pg 9
God Save The Queen (Theatre) By Annabeth Reeb
Located in downtown Bryan, the Queen Theatre is a local treasure. First opening in the late 1800’s as a hotel, the Queen Theatre is a crucial piece to the historical fabric of Downtown Bryan. The Schulmann family bought the theatre and remade it into one of the first air-conditioned theatres in the area. After a long-standing run, the Queen closed down in 1985. A once-prominent venue, the theatre was left for ruin. The Downtown Bryan Association (DBA) has sought to change that, working on restoring the Queen to its former glory. Restoration began with the outside and though it has stayed much the same to maintain the original look of the facility, the association has big plans for the inside. The end goal is to turn the Queen into a universal event center for special occasions. Currently, the DBA is raising funds to finish the interior restoration and renovation of the Queen. They are offering the option to rent the famous exterior marquee for up to a week at a time, giving those interested the ability to display messages for events or even something sweet for a loved one—marriage proposals perhaps? T-Shirts are also on sale with proceeds going strictly toward the renovation budget. If it’s not in your personal budget to fork over the nickels and dimes, your time is also greatly appreciated as general volunteer work is accepted for various upcoming projects. For more information on the theatre and how to help out the cause go to downtownbryan.com.
pg 10 • MAROON WEEKLY • Sept. 16, 2015 • maroonweekly.com
Stoney LaRue @ Hurricane Harry’s By Jordyn Smith
Stoney LaRue returns to BCS on September 18 for a show at Hurricane Harry’s. LaRue is a BCS favorite, playing Harry’s on a regular basis. LaRue is preparing for the release of his new album, “Us Time,” which is scheduled to drop on October 16.
more than 900,000 records and breaking out to tour across the United States. His last album, “Aviator,” showcased a tremendous growth in his music. “Aviator,” produced by Frank Liddell and Mike McCarthy, displayed LaRue’s ability to record songs that connect well with country fans.
After a summer that had hit a few bumps in his personal road, LaRue has been keeping himself busy touring across Texas. His tour will later take him to Kansas, Oklahoma, and out west to California. He will be playing various venues, including Brewster Street Icehouse in Corpus This album is a shout-out to his most loyal fans Christi, the 2015 Ziegenbock Festival in Houston, who he refers to as the LaRue Crue. This is his “Aviator” was a change from the modern country and a Tribute to the Streets of Bakersfield Country way of thanking them for continuous support theme of tailgates, tan lines, and a continuous Fried – Country Music Festival in Bakersfield, throughout his career. The album will include party. California. an array of covers, from Van Morrison to Glen Campbell, as well as a few of his own hits like LaRue, a Texan turned Oklahoma native, has There will be no opener for Stoney LaRue in College “Oklahoma Breakdown” and “Feet Don’t Touch The an innate ability to connect with an audience, Station, doors to Hurricane Harry’s will open at 9 Ground.” As well as two new originals, “Us Time” something that has propelled him to the level p.m. Tickets can be bought in advance online, or and “Easy She Comes.” of popularity he stands at today. His “real-life, at Cavenders Boot City, Aggieland Outfitters on thinking man’s music” is what has helped him University Dr, or at Southern Jewlz Boutique on LaRue has rose to Texas Country stardom, selling create such a loyal fan base. Harvey Road.
maroonweekly.com • Sept. 16, 2015 • MAROON WEEKLY • pg 11
standing on the sidelines, waiting patiently to relieve his teammates. The idea of the 12th Man is that although there are 11 men on the field fighting to win the game, the students are in the stands ready at a moment’s notice to help support the team in any way possible.
Wednesday Night Meals College Bible Studies | Fellowship Mission and Volunteer Opportunities
Join Us Sunday Mornings: 8:00 am Traditional 9:30 am Contemporary 11:00 am Traditional 4201 State Hwy 6 S College Station, TX, 77845 www.christ-umc.org | 979.690.4673
pg 12 • MAROON WEEKLY • Sept. 16, 2015 • maroonweekly.com
LIFE HAPPENS HERE!
LIVE HERE! LIVE THE DISTRICT! UPGRADED FLOORING AND FLAT-SCREEN TVs COMMUNITY AMENITIES • Fully-Equipped Fitness Center • Pool Tables and Air Hockey Table • Game/Activity Room with Playstation 3
COM E IN ASK AND ABO UT O UR
SPEC IALS
• Resort-Style Pool • Lighted Basketball, Tennis and Sand Volleyball Courts • Personalized Roommate Matching • Active Residence Life Program • Computer Lab and Study Rooms
APARTMENT AMENITIES • Individual Leases in Two, Three, and Four Bedroom Apartments with Private Bathrooms
R U HOLEASEE 8 4 OK & WAIV
*
E’LL EES F W N D O AN ATI C I L APP
LO
• Furnished and Unfurnished Apartments Available • Full-Size Washer and Dryer in Every Apartment • Electronic Keycard Access • Individually Locking Bedroom Doors • High-Speed Internet • Cable TV
on Luther 601 LU TH E R S TR E E T W E S T CO LLEG E S TATIO N , T X 77840 866.557.0 070 W W W.THEDIS TRIC TONLUTHER .COM
“Luther” to 47464 for information*
*standard text messaging rates apply
*Some restrictions may apply
maroonweekly.com• •Sept. Feb. 16, 18, 2015 • MAROON WEEKLY • pg 13 17 maroonweekly.com
Snap a Filter on It By Annabeth Reeb
Snapchat has taken off since its debut in 2011, being used by nearly 33% of all smartphone users according to Business Insider. What started out as a sketchy self-destructing picture app has transformed into the easiest and most convenient way to share what you’re doing with friends. Since its inception, Snapchat has added features like “My Story,” “Campus Stories,” and Geofilters to the app. Its impressive ability to unite communities and organizations through stories gives it a huge presence at universities—Texas A&M is no exception. Student’s can post “stories,” or short videos of themselves and friends and send them to a universal feed that can be seen around campus. One of our favorite ways that Snapchat connects to its users is through its newly added Geofilters. Geofilters are community-submitted filters that show up when app-users are in certain locations. Here are a few favorites:
Aggieland + Gig ‘Em hand: Although it took College Station a little longer than bigger cities like Houston and Dallas to acquire a Geofilter, the wait was worth it. The generic Aggieland filter is available pretty much anywhere around College Station, and is the perfect way to show off your Red Ass ways. This filter will be especially great when it comes to tailgating on game day.
you’re enjoying your night at Cedar Lane or being rowdy at Foundations—either way, it’s a nice way to tell your friends where you are (and that you’re having fun).
University Cross-section: This one came a few weeks after the original College Station Geofilters, so it came as a nice surprise to many students. This filter is accessible toward the North side of Camus and down University. Whether you’re studying on campus or eating lunch nearby, this filter is a great go-to.
My Campus Story: This filter is for the pictures and videos that you know you’ll be sending straight to “MyCampusStory,” the feed that visible to virtually anyone on campus. These are usually filled with stories from fun library antics to crazy classroom fun.
Northgate: That’s right, Northgate has its very own filter for the partyers on Friday night—or on Monday night if that’s more your style. Classy and simple, slap this filter on when
pg 14 • MAROON WEEKLY • Sept. 16, 2015 • maroonweekly.com
Ping-Pong Ball TAMU: We call this one ping-pong ball because, well, it looks like a bunch of little pong balls in the shape of Texas with our favorite moniker plastered across the middle. Again, this filter is accessible around the A&M campus and is a fun way to mix things up.
With filters popping up daily, there’s no way to tell what’s coming next. Businesses, events, and organizations will be able to benefit with this new trend, and we’ll all be able to add some color to our snaps. #Winning.
maroonweekly.com • Sept. 2, 2015 • MAROON WEEKLY • pg 15
The Resurgance of
Downtown Bryan
Boasting the title of “Texas Cultural District”—one of only 26 designated cities in the state of Texas—Downtown Bryan has served as the pinnacle location to represent the melting pot of local art and regional culture that the Brazos area has become. Within the last 10 years, Downtown Bryan has seen a resurgence in popularity and social vibrance.
“The City of Bryan developed a Downtown Master Plan in 2001, serving as a guide for the process,” said Sandy Farris, Executive Director of the Downtown Bryan Association (DBA). “The plan included creating attractive landscaping and street renovations, along with grants that were developed to assist building owners in making facade improvements. Coupled with some very determined business owners, Downtown Bryan has become a thriving place.”
Although First Friday’s are a typical hotspot-attraction for the downtown district, there are plenty of staple businesses— retail and restaurants alike—that beckon for your attention in Downtown Bryan.
“With very few exceptions, our restaurants and retail shops are locally-owned,” said Farris. “It's not uncommon to meet the owners and get to know them on a personal basis after just a few visits. That one-on-one personal service is what makes downtown stand out among all the other options in town.”
We have a few favorite spots that we frequent downtown for food, we can’t list all of the treasures on the map, but our must-go’s are:
Downtown Uncorked – for a solid atmosphere One of the greatest successes to the revitalization of the to unwind and enjoy a well-crafted glass of once-tired area was the inception of Bryan’s “First Friday” wine, you cannot beat Downtown Uncorked. event. Hosted on—you guessed it—the first Friday of each month, the event will be seeing its 10th anniversary in Perfect for cocktail hour, after-dinner, or a nice break from the study/work grind. October. Pioneered by Greta Watkins, owner of The Frame Gallery, the event “became a hub of social activity 10 years ago on the first Friday of the month, as a way to bring people downtown to see what we had to offer,” said Farris. “First Friday has now grown to a monthly "must-do" for the community. I like to call Downtown Bryan the community's living room, and First Friday is like a big block party each month.”
at work, makes the delicacies that much more delectable. Don’t even try to resist. The Proudest Monkey – Epic bar food. Killer tacos and top-notch burgers, also gets our vote for the best fries in town. Grab a beer and bite after work, but hurry because it fills up fast. The Village Café – A great central location for everything going on downtown, The Village seems to attract attention rather effortlessly. Serving up locally-sourced food, The Village offers and array of good eats. You can never go wrong with a soup and sandwich combo here. The shopping is rather unbeatable if you’re looking for local flare as well. The full list of storefronts is available on the Downtown Bryan website. With a focus on community, pairing with local and university-based organizations, and the drive to promote everything that is local within the Brazos Valley, Downtown Bryan is doing more than its share of giving back after its successes.
Café Capri – Consistently competing (and winning) as Aggieland’s best Italian eatery, Café Capri has been serving the sauce for “The emphasis we place on the arts, whether visual a solid 20 impressive years. Ridiculously or performing, is very important to the atmosphere of downtown,” said Farris. “The backdrop of century-old delicious, ridiculously affordable. buildings, combined with a very eclectic mix of businesses and people are why we think Downtown Bryan is a place where everyone can feel at home.”
Murphy's Law Pub & Brauhaus – An excellent The event has grown to host local musicians, artists, choice for Bavarian dining and stout pint of Be sure to check out the Downtown Bryan website and vendors from around the Brazos Valley to showcase ale, a large open pub hall with an eclectic (downtownbryan.com) for more information on the local their talents and wares in a centralized location that is atmosphere is definitely what you’ll find. surrounded by a vibrant nightlife, good food, palatable spirits and wines. With the 10th anniversary approaching, the DBA is planning a larger-than-normal celebration for this October’s installment of the event.
The Chocolate Gallery – The name speaks for itself, but somehow watching the chocolatiers
pg 16 • MAROON WEEKLY • Sept. 16, 2015 • maroonweekly.com
businesses and events DBA is hosting each week. Look for seasonal specials like the Christmas parade, Summer Sunset Concert Series, and the live music for Football Fridays before every Texas A&M home football game.
Velcro Pygmies @ Boulevard 217 OPAS logo FB TW mscopas
Broadway Shows & Concerts Coming to Aggieland!
By Annabeth Reeb
Hey Marty McFly, looking for a time warp?
Big hair, bright lights, and bigger sound: that’s the Velcro Pygmies, Aggieland’s favorite classic rock cover band. The Pygmies will be back in College Station this month, bringing their authenticly-covered classic 80’s hits to Boulevard 217 on Thursday, September 17th.
VOICEPLAY Sep 17, 2015 Sponsored by
Allstate
Disney’s BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Oct 20 & 21, 2015 Sponsored by
Aggieland Credit Union
The band is made up of four larger-than-life characters. Cam—Mr. Personality— on lead vocals. He’s backed up by Chris—the drumstick samurai—on drums, Chase—the Ace—on guitar, and Jacob—the lady’s man—on bass. They’ll preforming everyone’s favorite DOLLAR hits from the days of black Trans Ams DISNEY INbeCONCERT: MILLION JOSEPH AND and parachute jumpsuits—orQUARTET maybe it’s hairspray THE fog and denim jackets. Magical Music AMAZING Whatever makes on the hits of Van from the Moviesscreams 1985 for Febyou 19and & 20, 2016you reminisce TECHNICOLOR Halen, Def Leppard, Led Zeppelin, and Poison, these guys will bring it to the Nov 16 & 17, 2015 DREAMCOAT stage. If the hair-metal or Axl Rose sing-alongs aren’t quite enough Mar 8 & 9, 2016for you, the Pygmies are also pros at the other classics—with the hits like “Don’t Stop Believing,” “Jessie’s Girl,” and “Forget You This Thursday Night.”
Simply put, these guys come through town every few months, and for good SPECIAL TICKET PRICES FOR STUDENTS reason. They put on a one-of-a-kind show that you have to experience at Season 43 | 2015-16
least• once. They’re a shift in gears frommscopas the usual talent that strolls through MSC Box Office • 979-845-1234 MSCOPAS.org town and no one ever leaves disappointed.
maroonweekly.com • Sept. 16, 2015 • MAROON WEEKLY • pg 17
THere’s An
#APP4THAT BY MADISON MATOUS
Sept. 26 & 27, 2015
GOODREADS BATTERY DOCTOR - BY RACHEL PICKERING Does your phone die when youall leastbook expectlovers, it? You deserve to know when yoursocial phone is about to A must for Goodreads is the RIP, and you can do so by downloading Battery Doctor. The app can extend your battery life up to media app that lets you check out what your friends 50% by monitoring and regulating your phone’s power consumption. are reading and keep track of what titles you want read The app findsto other appsnext. and settings that drain power on your phone. It’ll provide you detailed
battery information, and the info will allow you to make proper adjustments to your phone. In addition, the memory scan and junk clean up willfor helpbooks you saveyou extrahave space by cleaning Features include a list read andand deleting clutter. (Before deleting anything, you have the option of setting your preferences so only certain for books you want to read, easy-to-search books files/folders will be scanned for clean up.)
LIVE MUSIC
with detailed descriptions and reviews, and an COST: FREE COST: FREE
Bob Schneider
Battery Doctorexplore also tells tab usersinhow longyour your battery will for last something under a varietynew. of situations. For case looking example, if you are playing a game on your phone, it will let you know how much power the game is using. The app also keeps a log of how often you fully charge your phone and what features you can turn on/off to extend the battery life.
Ray Wylie Hubbard
DUOLINGO
HANX WRITERPick - BY CONNIE from SONG more than 10 languages to learn in this Clickity, clack,interactive clack. Fueled bylearning his love forplatform. the typewriter, Tom Hanks (yes,approach Forrest Gump himself) Similar to the developed Hanx Writer, an app that mimics old-school typing machines. Yes, there was a reason of programs like Rosetta Stone, Duolingo is a fun why the typewriter went away, but the cons of the machine were taken into consideration and andapp. easy to use you appcanthat let’s your you typos learnandlanguages modified for this For instance, now delete go back and edit your wherever go.a document covered Xs. However, if you’re a fan of the Xs, horrible grammar instead ofyou having there’s an option to have them, too. In addition, you can also export documents you’ve typed with the app. Hanx Writer can also be used in other apps if you’re solely using the app for the sounds COST: FREE Featuring bite-size lessons where you earn points, (which is pretty nostalgic, but some people can’t write without them).
& D I N N E R
races against the clock, and level-ups make you feel
COST: FREE
more like youDELGADO are playing a game than learning a new ZEN SHOPPING - BY DANIELLA Want to makelanguage. holiday shopping a breeze? With Zen Shopping, you can have your own personal shopping assistant straight on your phone. It has a variety of features to make your online shopping experience simple and expedient. Among these features are a price comparison calculator, where AVIARY PHOTO EDITOR Zen automatically recognizes the product you’re looking for and searches other stores to find the Selfie lovers rejoice! With more than tools in most affordable option. Zen also automatically provides you with the 20 best coupons for the store you are shopping at prior to checkout. the app, making all of your photos Facebook or
KIDS ZONE
Instagram-worthy just got much simpler.
Zen notifies you of deals tailored to your shopping interests. The app also has a package tracking feature, so you can keep track of the delivery status of all your precious merchandise. Avoid the COST: FREE the perfect filter and eliminate blemishes inphone with long lines andFind crazy crowds and do all of your shopping from the comfort of your own Zen Shopping athisflash holiday (photo season. pun?), giving your photos a more
Take Advantage professional look. of Pre-Festival pg 18 • MAROON WEEKLY • Dec. 10, 2014 • maroonweekly.com Ticket Discounts Now! www.TexasRedsFestival.com
New York Times, TIME Magazine and USA Today all COST: FREE give glowing seals of approval for this top-notch app.
pg 18 • MAROON WEEKLY • Sept. 16, 2015 • maroonweekly.com
Cody Joe Hodges will be playing at Lakeside Icehouse on September 19. Hodges identifies more as an “outlaw” country artist, but it’s his ability to bridge the gap between classic country sound and modern lyrics that appeals to fans across the board. He wrote his first song during his freshman year at Texas A&M. After graduating in 2006, Hodges moved to Nashville where he began performing on Broadway. After a short stay in Music City, he moved back to Texas and joined the Army. Being in the Army did not keep Hodges from playing music, he earned a spot on an All-Army group called “Harmony in Motion.” There, he and the group began to play across America for venues and private military events. After he was discharged from the Army, Hodges spent a few years working in the power industry with his father. While in the power industry, he created a band called “The Lineman” with a few fellow Aggies.
Cody Joe Hodges @ Lakeside Icehouse By Jordyn Smith
By 2013, Hodges decided that it was time to pursue a full-time music career once again. Breaking out as a solo artist, he signed his first recording contract in December 2013. He would release his debut album, “The Good Stuff,” the following November. Hodges reached the #24 spot on the Texas Regional Radio Report with his inaugural radio release “Getting Back to Country.” In 2014, Hodges had the opportunity to sign with a Sony independent label out of Nashville, Lamon Records, for his new project—a 4-track EP that he released last May. He was recently named the 2015 Male Rising Star of the Year by the Country Music Association of Texas. Be sure to head out to Lake Bryan to catch Hodges at the icehouse on the 18th.
maroonweekly.com • Sept. 16, 2015 • MAROON WEEKLY • pg 19
6 Years
The Transporter Refueled Action/Thriller (R) By Linley McCord Some things should just be left unfueled, and the Transporter movies were one of them. After a 13-year hiatus, Hollywood decided to revamp the 2002 movie “Transporter” into a film with a fairly similar plotline and characters. “The Transporter Refueled” introduces cunning and handsome Frank Martin Jr., played by Ed Skrein (you might remember him as the original Daario Naharis in “Game of Thrones” third season…or maybe not). The fact that he’s a junior is an important note: his father was the notorious Frank Martin of the first film. Transporting illegal material seems to run in the family. A mirror plotline of the first, the movie follows a handsome ex-military man in the business of moving objects that would be otherwise unable to move by the postal service. He works on a strict set of rules: no names, no telling what’s in the package, and always being punctual. But his carefully laid rules fall apart when his father is kidnapped by people who wish to use him for revenge against someone who Frank himself has a troubled past with. Cue the three women with the platinum blonde wigs. They coerce Frank into getting them in and out of places that will undermine their previous pimp, but it quickly becomes them leaning on him to do all their dirty work. There’s an obvious ringleader, Anna (played by Loan Chabonal), who flirts her way into Frank’s good graces. The other two seem to be nothing more than wing-women who wanted to escape from their prison of prostitution. The action scenes were spectacular and completely ridiculous, more comedic than dramatic at times. The script was a cliché of all other C- action movies, and the villain was a playboy pimp who was taken down in a short but well-fought battle with Frank. There were also some blatant marketing money-grabs judging by the extensive use of iPhones and the Audi brand. It could be equated to some of the “Fast and Furious” movies: shaky plot with a lot of absurd car chases. Worth the watch? Maybe, if you don’t want to take this action movie too seriously. Worth the DVD purchase? Definitely not. It gets a solid 3.5/10 stars. Rated PG-13 for language, violence, and suggestive material.
pg 20 • MAROON WEEKLY • Sept. 16, 2015 • maroonweekly.com
Netflix By Adrianna Zampieri “6 Years” is a romantic drama that was released exclusively on Netflix. Thinking this one’s a must-see? Well, not so much. It leaves you feeling neither satisfied nor dissatisfied. Directed by Hannah Fidell, “6 Years” tells the story of Dan (Ben Rosenfield) and Mel (Taissa Farmiga), a couple that has been together for—you guessed it—six years. But that is all about to change, as they are one step closer to finishing college and pursuing their dreams. They both desire a future together; however, even the best-laid plans can go awry. Chock full of eyebrow-raising situations, including drunken shenanigans, trips to the ER, and misunderstandings with the police, this film is a non-stop rollercoaster. This film is constantly pulling you up and down, left and right. One moment Dan and Mel and blissful, then they’re suddenly livid. Will they ever be happy? The chemistry between the main actors is undeniable, but the heartfelt moments are vastly outnumbered by melodramatic arguments. Rather than fill the minutes with explosive arguments to create unneeded drama, Fidell could have explored the sensitive subjects she presents in the film. Unfortunately, she never delves beneath the surface, and it seems like those issues are only present for shock factors. The quirky and catchy soundtrack almost makes up for that oversight. Almost. “6 Years” currently does not have a rating, but it does contain inappropriate language and partial nudity.
maroonweekly.com • Jan. 21, 2015 • MAROON WEEKLY • pg 21
TL;DR Across 1 Coin flip 5 Nuremberg number 9 Agent Emanuel 12 ___ Chris Steak House 14 “They went this way” sign 15 Pops 16 Farm refrain 17 Novelist Pier ___ Pasolini 18 Bother 19 Opening of “Anna Kareni...” (TL;DR) 22 “Kate & ___” (‘80s sitcom) 23 Toxic condition 24 Sports car protector 25 Daybreak 28 Prominent stretch 29 Opening of “A Tale of Two Cit...” (TL;DR) 35 Gravy dish 36 They have a flower logo 37 “Come right ___!” 38 Opening of “The Catcher in the R...” (TL;DR) 43 Evergreen State sch. 44 “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” character 45 Bro’s sib 46 Remove, like a rind 49 Gp. that awards the Oscars 51 Opening of “Moby-D...” (TL;D... wait, I think I got the whole thing!) 55 Keats offering 56 Concern 57 Was told 60 Vardalos or Long 61 Students take them 62 Impressive lineup 63 DC ballplayer 64 Sitcom starring Sonny Shroyer 65 “Auld Lang ___”
Down 1 Three, in Turin 2 Arles agreement 3 Take off slyly 4 Shameless salesperson 5 Get ___ on the knuckles 6 Trim the borders of 7 Francis I’s jurisdiction 8 Some sweet deals 9 #2 of 44 10 Spokes 11 Winners of a certain show 13 Pool side 14 Shrink’s org. 20 Spiciness 21 “This Is 40” director Judd 22 Trump’s “The ___ the Deal” 24 Netanyahu nickname 26 “This is an awesome ride!” 27 Country hit by a recent earthquake 30 “Don’t forget to bring ___!” (“South Park” catchphrase) 31 “American Hustle” actor 32 Paid periodically 33 Last word of some films 34 Explosive materials 39 Offer from a sharing friend 40 Makes a decision about, in court 41 “Kinsey” star Neeson 42 Company that makes motorcycles, guitars, and snowmobiles 46 Home of the Huskies 47 Gymnastics great Comaneci 48 Crease 50 Jury members 52 What a colon may mean 53 Takes to court 54 Guys 58 Operated, as machinery 59 Turn purple, perhaps 2015 Jonesin’ Crosswords (editor@jonesincrosswords.com)
Answers
pg 16 • MAROON WEEKLY • Jan. 28, 2015 • maroonweekly.com
pg 22 • MAROON WEEKLY • Sept. 16, 2015 • maroonweekly.com
SPARKLING POOLS, COMMUNITY EVENTS & SO MUCH MORE!
˨ˤ˟ NŸĶ¶ Ǽs ^Njʳʰ NŸĶĶs¶s ǢǼ ǼÞŸŘ ǻɭ
ˢ˥ˣˤ ɟsĶĶEŸNjŘ NJ_ʳʰ DNjɴ Ř ǻɭ ˦˦˧˟ˠ
ɠɠɠʳǼÌsǼNj ÞĶǣ ǼɠŸĶ¯ƼsŘONjssĨʳOŸŎ
ɠɠɠʳNjsɚsÞĶĶsNj ŘOÌ Ƽ NjŎsŘǼǣʳOŸŎ
˨˦˨˚˦˥ˣ˚˧˨˨˨
˨˦˨˚˥˨ˠ˚˥ˣ˟˟
maroonweekly.com • Sept. 16, 2015 • MAROON WEEKLY • pg 23