thebattalion
this day in
exas thistory
Jan. 28, 1861
● thursday,
Texas joined the Confederacy after seceding from the Union during the Civil War.
january 28, 2010
● serving
texas a&m since 1893
● first paper free – additional copies $1 ● © 2010 student media
Bats’ stay in Aston over
coming friday
Aggie in Haiti Dr. Tom Rivers, class of 1992, who is an orthopedic surgeon went to Haiti with the Greene Team. He arrived five days after the earthquake hit to help survivors.
Students did not want mandatory move from dorms Beau Holder The Battalion Relocation. It loomed like a dark cloud — over the staff, over the residents, over the unwanted guests themselves. As with all storms, this one slowly approached. Spun each and every way, the saga of the bats that infested Aston Hall added up to one penultimate possibility: relocation. But thanks to Texas A&M Pest Control Services, the clouds lifted. On Tuesday night the nets that had been placed over the courtyard of Aston were removed and with the nets went the majority of the bats. “I don’t think the problem is completely resolved,” Varghese said. “But the course of action we took is going to help a lot.”
Tennis talent Two-time All American tennis player Austin Krajicek helps bring athletes to A&M.
inside
See Bats on page 4
news | 8
Senate: Open campus roads
Bush School gets a new dean Ryan Crocker comes to A&M to help continue school’s commitment to public service.
b! food | 3
Vietnamese spring rolls Learn how to make simple spring rolls. They are cheap and fun to make for any occasion.
sports | 5
Aggie basketball Coverage on both men’s and women’s games.
JD Swiger— THE BATTALION
Mary Bolton Eckles, who was born and reared on the Texas A&M University campus, turned 100 years old Jan 16th. She celebrated her birthday with friends and family.
Woman celebrates 100 years A&M campus was woman’s playground during her childhood years Brandi Tevebaugh The Battalion Mary Bolton Eckles remembers when College Station had a single red light, when Texas A&M only admitted male students, and when her house was the only place on campus with Christmas lights. Eckles celebrated her 100th birthday on Jan. 16, surrounded by family and friends. “I had a party, a big party,” Eckles said. “All kinds of family came. I just had a good time.” Eckles’ birthday party was a weekend-long event. Friday night began with country western dance lessons arranged by Mary’s son, Frank, for the visitors — who came from five different states. Eckles is still active, and said she thought that part of the weekend was wonderful.
“She tried to get up and do the chicken dance, but that didn’t last long,” said Vicki Eckles, Mary’s daughter-in-law. “It was like ‘what is this? This is not dancing.’” On Saturday, Jan. 16, family and friends including A&M President-elect Loftin and College Station Mayor Ben White attended a birthday tea party. Cards poured in from all over the United States. Gov. Rick Perry, President Barack Obama and former President George W. Bush sent her letters, and she received the flag that was flown over the state capital in her honor. “It took us about an afternoon and a half to read all of her cards to her,” Vicki said. See 100-year-old on page 4
Melissa Appel The Battalion The Texas A&M Student Senate discussed various construction projects and campus road closures during their meeting Wednesday. Senators expressed concern about the current closure of Joe Routt Boulevard due to construction at the Memorial Student Center Complex. Presently, the westbound lanes are closed while under construction; eastbound lanes are not under construction at this time, but have been closed to through traffic. Authors of the Joe Routt Bill said this closure severely hampers traffic traveling from one side of the campus to another. The bill asks that the unaffected lanes of the street be opened to either one-way or two-way traffic during time of construction. “We want basically to alleviate traffic, because it is ridiculous, especially during rush hour,” said Rules and Regulations Chairman Mike Simmons. The bill also addresses the future closure of Joe Routt Boulevard. Under the plans for MSC construction, Joe Routt will be permanently shut down and transformed into a pedestrian mall upon reopening of See Senate on page 8
CARPOOL to run Thursday
Obama addresses nation’s struggles, fears in speech
CARPOOL will begin operations again Thursday. After the service shut down temporarily for the beginning of the semester due to lack of funding, Rebecca Orth, director of public relations for CARPOOL and a senior health major said they have reached their goal and should have no problems staying in operation for the duration of the spring semester. “We had goals set up to tell us when we could start running,” Orth said. “We didn’t want to start until we knew we were secure enough.” Although the organization has met its goal to start back up, Orth said the fundraising efforts are not over and they continue to ask for support from the Aggie community. CARPOOL will operate from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. Thursday through Sunday. To catch a ride, contact them at 979-693-9905. Vicky Flores, staff writer Courtesy Photo
Pg. 1-1.28.10.indd 1
Nathan Alsbrooks
opinion | 7
Special to The Battalion President Barack Obama stood before the country Wednesday to deliver the first State of the Union address of his presidency. The president began by setting the stage for his message, reminding Congress that for more than 200 years, presidents have stepped forward to deliver the State of the Union in the midst of vastly differing circumstances. He said he was aware that
Thumbs up for Obama
See Obama on page 2
State of the Union address puts aside the differences of the year to focus on the future.
1/28/10 12:39 AM
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Send Interim President R. Bowen Loftin your comments to president@ tamu.edu about the Legislative Budget Board to prepare for a 5 percent reduction in spending over the current biennium that began Sept. 1.
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Michael Smith, professor of philosophy at Princeton University will give his paper “Secular vs. Religious Approaches to Values and Reasons� at 3:45 p.m. Thursday in Bolton 213. The paper is part of the Department of Philosophy’s Lone Star Tourist series.
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THE BATTALION (ISSN #1055-4726) is published daily, Monday through Friday during the fall and spring semesters and Monday through Thursday during the summer session (except University holidays and exam periods) at Texas A&M University. Periodicals Postage Paid at College Station, TX 77840. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Battalion, Texas A&M University, 1111 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843-1111.
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Obama Continued from page 1
the American people were struggling. “These struggles are the reason I ran for president,� Obama said. Obama said he was optimistic about the American spirit. “I’ve never been more hopeful about our nation’s future than I am tonight,� Obama said. Obama said no one liked the recent spree of bailouts for banks nationwide, but that they were a “necessary evil.� Defending his actions in the previous year, Obama said he had lowered taxes for several different constituencies. Following the lack of applause from a portion of the audience — mostly Republicans — one of the evening’s few humorous moments took place. “I thought I’d get applause on that one from you,� Obama said, looking at a group of Republican congressmen seated together. Obama moved on to more sensitive matters when he defended his administration’s stance on the economic recovery. He said jobs would be the top priority in 2010 and later addressed the need to create new jobs
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in new markets. and Ronald Reagan. He proposed $30 billion be given to Across the Texas A&M campus, students small banks, to help small businesses gain questioned different parts of the address. credit. Obama also asked for a jobs bill on “President Obama spoke about change his desk without delay. and said Washington was a good place to “I will not accept second place for the start. He’s trying to reassure everyone that United States of America,� Obama said. change is coming,� said Allison Chambers, Obama moved on to the heava sophomore general studies major. ily debated issue of healthcare Andi Mints, a sophomore reform. The president business marketing major, urged Congress not to addressed the ramifications “I will not accept shy away from the isof Obama’s plan to make second place for sue, and said he was a college education more the United States willing to hear alteraccessible. of America.� native solutions — so “When more indilong as they met cerviduals enter the workPresident Barack tain criteria. force with their shiny, Obama He said he planned new diplomas, I question to bring 44 nations to the how the working conditions Capitol to discuss nuclear for Americans will get better,� containment with the goal of Mints said. “Their salaries will be controlling all nuclear materials in a times- lower and demand for their expertise will pan of four years. diminish.� The president solidified his commitment Students said they will watch the presito winning the war in Afghanistan, while dent’s actions closely, in light of the address. promising to bring American forces home “It will be interesting to watch how he from Iraq by August. In regards to his poli- carries out his promises about improving cy of containment and the security of these our country,� Chambers said. weapons, Obama likened his stance to the ideals of former Presidents John F. Kennedy
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things you should know
5 before you go Realizing diversity goals
1
Dr. Marta Tienda, a professor at Princeton University, will present practical strategies to improve outcomes in diversity related situations and issues related to enhancing the diversity climate at Texas A&M from 9 to 10 a.m. today in room 510 of Rudder Tower.
2
Fruit tree sale
The Holistic Teaching Garden will have a fruit tree sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday and Saturday in the northwest corner of Lot 74 where they will be selling a variety of fruit trees as well as herbs such as basil varieties, mint varieties and many more.
Open House at the observatory
3
The Department of Physics & Astronomy at Texas A&M University will have free Observatory Open House at the campus observatory from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday. Telescope observing and astronomy demos will be featured.
Last day to apply for degrees
4
The application deadline to apply for a degree to be awarded in May is 5 p.m. Friday. Degree candidates can apply by logging in to the Howdy portal and submitting an application under the degree evaluation channel.
MSC OPAS: A Cinderella Story
5
MSC OPAS presents the telling of A Cinderella Story by the Royal Winnipeg Ballet for one night only. The show will be at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 3 in Rudder Auditorium. Tickets are available at the MSC Box Office.
thebattalion 01.28.2010 page3
food
Vietnamese spring rolls with easy peanut sauce A simple dish that can be used as an appetizer for any gathering
F
or those looking to reconnect with friends over a meal, here is a fun, cheap and easy dish that everyone can have a hand in making. This recipe makes approximately six spring rolls. Long Dao
Peanut Sauce Ingredients: ¼ cup hoisin sauce* ½ tablespoon crunchy peanut butter ½ tablespoon water *Note: the hoisin sauce can easily be found at BCS Asian Market near the intersection of Texas & Harvey Mitchell or in the international foods section of H-E-B
Spring Roll Ingredients: 1 package of rice vermicelli noodles* 1 package of spring roll wrapper paper (aka: “Banh Trang”)* 1 piece of boneless skinless chicken breast chopped cilantro lettuce water (to boil and some more for dipping)
*Note: both the vermicelli and spring roll wrapper paper can be found at BCS Asian Market in the same aisle. The vermicelli is basically all the same. As for the wrapper paper, choose paper that is roughly nine to 10 inches in diameter (the package should have a picture of a rose). Boil the vermicelli for approximately six minutes and strain in a colander or sieve. Note that each package of vermicelli tends to have the dried noodles clumped inside the package. For the serving size of this particular recipe, 1 clump should suffice. Wash the cooked vermicelli with cold water to stop the noodles from continuing to cook. Boil the chicken breast until cooked through, approximately 10 to 15 minutes depending on the thickness of the chicken. Once the chicken is done boiling, cut the chicken into strips and prepare to assemble all the ingredients. First, fill a large bowl with warm water to immerse the spring roll wrapper paper. The paper will slowly absorb the water and
Long Dao — SPECIAL TO THE BATTALION
Vietnamese spring rolls take less than a half hour to prepare. This recipe makes six rolls and a simple peanut sauce that takes seconds. become soft, malleable and sticky. Remove the paper from the water after it has been immersed for about 10 to 15 seconds or when bendable and soft. Begin assembly by adding the vermicelli, chicken, lettuce and cilantro. Be sure not to over stuff your spring roll or the wrapping might bust. Wrap the spring roll like you would a burrito, dip into peanut sauce and enjoy. For the peanut sauce, simply combine all the ingredients and stir until well-mixed. Long Dao is a senior management information systems major and special to The Battalion.
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BTHO TEXAS TECH! Pg. 3-1.28.10.indd 1
1/27/10 5:58 PM
news
page 4
Texas A&M University Students, Faculty and Staff are encouraged to attend a public hearing to discuss
Designated Tuition plans for the 2010-2011 Academic Year Thursday, January 28, 2010 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Room 601, Rudder Tower Dr. R. Bowen Loftin Interim President
thursday 1.28.2010
100-year-old Continued from page 1
Eckles’s brother, Preston Bolton, class of 1942, was able to surprise his sister by attending the party. Bolton was named an Outstanding Alumnus of the Texas A&M College of Architecture in 2001. “It was really wonderful to have him there,” Eckles said. After friends had gone home, the family stayed for a barbecue. Mary’s relatives shared “old people jokes,” testimonials, songs, poems and a puppet show. “One of the things I’ve learned the most from her is how to welcome people, even with simple things, like making sure the porch light’s on if they’re being expected,” Vicki said. “Everybody always feels real special.” Eckles has always loved to entertain and has always loved A&M. She was born on campus in 1910 in the house on Throckmorton Street known as “Quality Row.” The home was provided to her family by the University. “There were houses on campus then,” Eckles said. “They’ve all been torn down or moved off, but there were houses. It was called ‘Quality Row’ because some of the senior professors lived on it.” Her father, Franklin Cleve-
Bats Continued from page 1
Following the discovery last week of bats in and around the fourth floor and courtyard of Aston, nothing was certain. “It’s been an ongoing process since last week,” said Aston Hall Director Justin Varghese. “We’ve been offering students, if they feel uncomfortable, temporary spaces for living outside of Aston, while still having access to Aston.” According to a letter distributed to residents by the Department of Residence Life, a company that specializes in bats was hired to help remove the pests. The message said while there had been no reported instances of students being harmed, “we recommend that [students] temporarily relocate to reduce the chance of injuries occurring.” Students in Aston said they heard the whispers of a possible move. “Students do not need to take everything out of their rooms,” the letter continued, “but will need to take anything they will need until we receive an ‘all clear’ report from TAMU Pest Control Services.”
thebattalion land Bolton, was the first head of the electrical engineering department, and later was named president of the college. He left a lasting impression on A&M, and Bolton Hall is named in his honor. Eckles spent her childhood on campus, and recalls watching older girls do their hair and get ready for dances. The Bolton family often chaperoned young women who were in College Station as dates for the cadets. “I enjoyed that,” Eckles said. “There were no girls to dance. They came in to stay, and they had to have places to stay.” Mary was young when she began to attend the social gatherings. She was probably 14 when she began going to Sbisa Hall for dances. “She used to go to some of the dances because they always needed more women to dance with, and she was there,” Vicki said. After graduating high school at 15, Mary attended college at the University of Mary HardinBaylor and Southern Methodist University. Mary returned to College Station in the summer to attend A&M. Mary Bolton married William E. “Bill” Eckles in 1928, fittingly on campus, in Guion Hall — a chapel that was located where Rudder Hall is today. Bill played in the Aggieland Orchestra to pay for his education, so Mary’s family teases her about having a date a week after
she was married. “He had to play in the orchestra so I had a date for the dance,” Eckles said. Eckles and her husband had three children, all of whom attended A&M. Her firstborn, Bill Jr., was born in 1929 and died in an automobile accident two years after enrolling at A&M. Frank, the Eckles’ second son, was born in 1949 and graduated from A&M with a psychology degree in 2006. Her youngest, James, was born in 1952 and earned a master’s degree in agricultural economics from A&M in 1981. The family lived in Germany, Panama, New York, Washington, Kansas and a variety of other places, but Aggieland has always been home. She has seen A&M grow and change. “If they don’t grow, it’s no good,” Eckles said. “If it can’t keep up, it’s no good.” Eckles’ neighbor of 10 years, Tina Evans, has researched Eckles’ family history and spent much time with her. She said Mary is like her father, who was highly respected, and known for his no-nonsense personality. “She has a zest for life that is just so inspiring, and a way of cutting to the chase with her quick wit,” Evans said. “You just have to admire someone who has experienced 100 years of life, not to mention most of A&M’s entire history from the very day she was born.”
Varghese said pest control is doing scheduled walkthroughs at 6, 8 and 10 every night. Students who chose to move would have been allowed to access their rooms during the relocation period. Students who chose to stay in their room were given the option to move out at a later time if they so desired. The message was not wellreceived by many students. “We’re not too worried about [the bats],” said Terrell’s roommate Regan Nielsen, a freshman business major. “It’s a huge hassle to move. We’re real good friends with 95 percent of the people on our floor and we don’t want to leave them.” The sentiment seemed to be shared by others in the hall, even those who had firsthand experiences with the creatures. “We don’t want to leave either,” said Cat Cook, freshman international studies major. Cook and freshman business major Addie Pipitone said they saw a bat hanging from an air vent on their floor but were led away by a resident assistant. Varghese said if students see a bat, the protocol is not to touch it, not to try to remove it and to
contact hall staff immediately. Varghese said all the bats found in the hall and in rooms were tested for rabies and other diseases with no positives. “Students who feel they’ve been in physical contact with a bat have been encouraged to talk to their health provider,” he said. A number of the bats could be seen flying over the courtyard at sunset Tuesday. As the situation moved forward, the pest control crews searched the roof, halls and courtyard for more bats or points of entry in an endeavor to put an end to the problem. “There were three access points on the roof and they’ve been sealed,” said Varghese, who added that pest control was looking for any other access points for the bats. After the removal of the nets, the large majority of the creatures had departed. If all goes as planned, the last step of the process will be to watch for any remaining bats that may not have escaped at first opportunity. The protocols laid out for the students and hall staff have not changed, but officials said they will respond to the situation as necessary.
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1/28/10 12:40 AM
sports
Coming Friday An in-depth feature on Aggie tennis star Austin Krajicek.
thebattalion 1.28.2010 page5
Cowboys wrangle Aggies, 76-69
Bears bounce Ags
T.D. Durham
No. 16 Baylor knocks off No. 8 A&M 61-53 Michael Teague
File Photo — THE BATTALION
Junior forward Danielle Adams corrals the basketball in Wednesday’s contest with the Baylor Lady Bears.
The Battalion Texas A&M’s No. 8 women’s basketball team dropped another road game Wednesday with a 61-53 loss at No. 14 Baylor. “Give Baylor a lot of credit,” said A&M Head Coach Gary Blair. “They just executed a lot better than we did, particularly on the offensive end in the first half. They were running their sets and doing a great job.” Despite a slow start, Baylor freshman Brittney Griner found her rhythm in the second half and finished with 20 points and five rebounds. Griner was 8-for-14 from the floor and hit four of five free throws. “Playing [Griner] for the first time bothered us,” Blair said. “Her presence was very good and her altering shots was key.” A&M’s offense was shut down by Baylor’s tight defense. A&M was held to 10 points inside the paint and gave up 20 points off 16 turnovers. Coming into the game, Baylor’s struggles could be credited to the absence of junior Melissa Jones. The guard made her return Wednesday and recorded a double-double with 17 points and 10 rebounds. “They would not be 1-3 if Jones had been out there for the first four ballgames,” Blair said. “Jones looked like she was playing hurt and she gutted it out.” Much like their loss at Okla-
The Battalion
homa, the Aggies struggled to get leading-scorer Tanisha Smith going. Smith was 2-for11 from the field and turned the ball over six times. “Tanisha did not have a very good ball game offensively or defensively,” Blair said. “They did a great job of contesting her shot but she’s got to knock down some of those.” With Baylor’s defense focusing on Smith, sophomore Tyra White got hot and scored a team-high 19 points. “I basically just wanted to step up when my other teammates don’t,” White said. “At the beginning, we were rushing our shots and just scared of [Griner]. Eventually, we started taking it inside and getting to the free throw line.” A&M fell into a hole early. The Aggies carried a 28.6 field goal percentage into the locker room at half and trailed 30-18. In the second half, A&M rebounded and cut the Bears’ lead to 51-45. Baylor would not falter however, knocking down 25-of-35 free throws to keep up with the Aggies. Junior Sydney Colson was proud of her team’s resilience. “I saw a lot of fight in our team. In the huddle, I could see the intensity in people’s eyes,” she said. A&M will try to get back on track at Reed Arena Sunday, when they face another Top 25 team in No. 15 Oklahoma State.
The Texas A&M men’s basketball team lost its third road game in Big 12 Conference play Wednesday, in a 76-69 decision to Oklahoma State at Iba-Gallagher Arena in Stillwater, Okla. Although the Aggies won the opening tip-off, they got out of the gate slowly offensively, missing the first four 3-point field goals they took and not scoring until the 16:41 mark. A&M fell to a 13-2 deficit against the Cowboys. Senior guard Obi Muonelo scored the first eight points for Oklahoma State. Muonelo finished the game with a season-high 24 points and career-high tie in 3-pointers, with six. The Aggies found their offense with 5:52 remaining in the first half when senior forward Bryan Davis stole the ball and found sophomore guard Dash Harris on the fast break. Harris slammed home a dunk over two Cowboy defenders and drew a foul, which brought the Aggies to only a 6-point deficit. A&M would tie the game with two minutes remaining in the first half and the teams would go into the locker room at halftime tied, 26-26. Cowboys junior guard James Anderson, who leads the Big 12 in scoring with 22.6 points per game, was held to only two points in the first half. Texas A&M senior guard Donald Sloan, who leads the Aggies with an average of 17.6 points per game, scored just five points in first half action. In the second half, the Aggies opened with a 4-0 run to secure its first lead of the game. The
File Photo — THE BATTALION
Cowboys responded quickly with a 3-pointer from sophomore guard Keiton Page. James would help to lead the Cowboys on a rampage from behind the Next game arc, as will be Oklahoagainst ma State Texas Tech finished at 8 p.m. the game Sat. in Reed w i t h Arena. a stunning 67 percent from 3-point range. Anderson finished under his season average in points, but would still score 19 in the game. He was 2-for-3 from behind the arc in the latter half of the game. Sloan broke out in the second half, as he finished with a team high 27 points for the Aggies. A&M kept the game close until an Anderson 3-pointer put the Aggies down by 7 points with 8:36 remaining in the bout. A&M would not pull within five points for the rest of regulation. The loss puts the Aggies at 14-6 overall and 3-3 in Big 12.
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1/28/10 12:28 AM
classifieds
thebattalion 1.28.2010 page6 PLACE
AN AD Phone 845-0569 or Fax 845-2678 The Grove, Bldg. #8901 Texas A&M University
AUTO
WHEN
TO CALL 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday Insertion deadline: 1 p.m. prior business day
FOR RENT
I buy vehicles, running or not running. 979-778-1121.
FOR RENT $375 available now. 1/1, 2/1, 2/2 Free Wi-Fi, On Northgate, on Shuttle. Short term leases ok. Call agent, Ardi. 979-422-5660. $400/mo., 2bd/2ba, central heat and air, W/D, Longmire Ct., CS. 979-822-1616 $900 Available Now or Pre-lease, 3 & 4 bdrm. houses near TAMU, pets ok. Call Agent Ardi 979-422-5660. 1,2,3,4 bedroom apartments. Furnished or unfurnished. Available May or August. 979-693-4900.
New Condo! Sublease 1 room. Private bath &bed. Wood floor. W/D in unit. Jan-May $295/mo. January free. 519 SW Pkwy. Call 281-639-8847, 713-922-7722. Older newly remodeled 3bd/1ba brick home with open garage and carport. Approximately 16 miles east off Highway 6 down OSR. Small pasture and barn. $1200/mo. Perfect for horse owners. Contact Cullen at 979-255-5555. Pre-leasing brand new 4/4 luxurious cottage style home, behind HEB, two blocks from campus! $550/mo. per person. Call 979-314-1333. Private room and bath in house in quiet neighborhood. $435/mo. Call 979-218-0027.
1-3/bedroom apartments. Some with w/d, some near campus. $175-$600/mo. 979-696-2038.
Quiet country atmosphere, fireplace, very large 1bdrm brick duplex. Available Now! $425/mo. +bills. No pets. 693-8534.
2/1 fourplex, newly remodeled, close to campus, on bus route for $650/mo. Call 979-966-3913. Licensed agent. Move in now and pre-lease for August 2010.
Rent duplex, 2/1. Beautiful, remodeled, new flooring, drapes, convenient to everything. One week free. 979-422-3427. 832-646-2329. Call for special.
2/1 House. Near Winery. Country Living. $700/m. (979)877-4951. Available Now.
Spring Break at the Frio. Cabin Rental- fourfriosisters.com 361-510-8563.
2bd/1ba W/D water included, shuttle stop in front, 3/4 mile from campus. Ceiling fans, very clean. (979)690-4181.
TOWNHOUSE 3bd/2ba. W/D connections, covered parking, vaulted ceiling in living area, pool access, park-like neighborhood. 2-blocks to campus, No pets. Ask about specials. 979-777-8407.
2bd/2br duplex. W/D connection with backyard. Pets allowed. $725/mo. Available asap. (979)571-1714. 3/2 Townhouses &Apartments, 1250sqft. Very spacious, ethernet, large kitchen, walk-in pantry &closets, extra storage, W/D, great amenities, on bus route, now pre-leasing for 2010, excellent specials. 979-694-0320, office@luxormanagement.com 3bd/3ba. Duplexes. Close to campus, Great backyards. Fairly New! 979-693-4900. Brand new luxury condos, granite countertops, tile flooring, great location. 979-693-4900 4/3, 3/3 &3/2 Townhouses, Duplexes &Fourplexes, 1250-1700sqft. Very spacious, ethernet, large kitchen, extra storage, W/D, great amenities, on bus route, now pre-leasing for 2010, excellent specials. 694-0320. office@luxormanagement.com 4b/2b pre-leasing house w/2 car garage. Walking/biking distance to campus, on shuttle route, fenced-in yard. Rent $1500/month. 979-229-4222. 4bd/4ba houses. Brand New, great size, great location, AAF 979-693-4900. 4br/3bath House with master, Edelweiss Gartens area, 3yrs old, security alarm, all appliances, great amenities, quiet street, available in July/Aug., $1900/mo., Brian 469-877-1184 All bills paid, 4-bdrm condo on Southwest Parkway. Has 3 rooms for rent, $400/each with private baths, shared common area, 210-771-4535. Available now, no deposit, Northgate 2/1 sublet through end of Aug., W/D inc., $400, ground floor, 10 minute walk to TAMU, on bus route 15, call 516-547-7744 House for rent 3/1.5/1, 0.75 acres, horse ok, 6mo. lease available. $875/mo., $875 deposit 979-696-1670. Master bedroom, nice mobile home with private bath and closet. $450, Central-air/ht, internet, cable, everything included. 210-364-7006.
FOR SALE Bestop Sunrider Black Denim, brand new soft top for Jeep Wrangler 97-2002. Does not include doors. $500. (979)450-3131.
HELP WANTED A discount everytime at over 30 locations. Get your VIP Card at AggielandVIP.com Ags! Looking for summer work? Earn $9000.00 this summer, build your resume, great experience, call Taylor, 214-707-9145. An awesome job! Spend your summer in a lakefront cabin in Maine. If you are looking to spend this summer outdoors, have fun while you work, and make lifelong friends, then look no further. Camp Mataponi, a residential camp in Maine, has female and male summertime openings for Land Sports, Waterfront (small crafts, skiing, life guarding, WSI, boat drivers), Ropes Course, Tennis, Horse Back Riding, Arts & Crafts, Theater, Cooking, Gymnastics, Dance, Videography, Group Leaders & more. On Campus Interviews will top salaries plus room, board & travel provided. Call us at 1-561-748-3684 or apply online at www.campmataponi.com Athletic men for calendars, books, etc. $100-$200/hr, up to $1000/day. No experience. 512-684-8296. photoguy@io.com Bingo worker: great job opportunity. Above average pay with commissions &tips. Flexible hours. Hospitalization benefits available. Must have acceptable credit &clean background check. Apply in person at the Bingo Barn, 1018 S. TX Ave, Bryan, TX. Carney’s Pub and Grill Now Hiring Bartenders (experience preferred), Door-guys, &Bar-backs. Apply within or Call 979-823-1294. Child Care- FT & PT shifts available. Some nights & Saturdays required. Apply in person at 3609 E. 29th St., Bryan. Cleaning commercial buildings at night, M-F. Call 979-823-5031 for appointment.
SPECIAL
see ads at thebatt.com
PRIVATE PARTY WANT ADS
$10 for 20 words running 5 days, if your merchandise is priced $1,000 or less (price must appear in ad). This rate applies only to non-commercial advertisers offering personal possessions for sale. Guaranteed results or you get an additional 5 days at no charge. If item doesn’t sell, advertiser must call before 1 p.m. on the day the ad is scheduled to end to qualify for the 5 additional insertions at no charge. No refunds will be made if your ad is cancelled early.
HELP WANTED Couple with one story ranch home on 2 acres near TAMU needs assistance with some landscaping projects, fencing, and minor renovations. All supplies and tools provided. Flexible project schedule and good working environment. Would like an Ag student who is going to be in town for summer to accept this paid opportunity. This could become a long term opportunity. Please share a brief work history and your interest by email to: j_cfoster@verizon.net before 2/5/10. FT front office person needed for busy property Management Company. Person needs to be energetic, personable, and a team player. Office or Customer Service experience required. Apply in person @1507 S. College Ave, Bryan. 979-775-2291. Great job opportunity for construction science major. Looking for dependable person to help supervise small work crew, run errands, and perform light manual labor. Must have dependable transportation. Call Norman Concrete Services at 979-739-9392 for an appointment. Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center (Brazos Valley) Driver (Part-time position). Driver will transport blood from various donor sites to Component Laboratory and conduct the delivery of blood components to designated locations while maintaining proper record keeping an adhering to FDA regulations, Company standards, and established guidelines. Requirements: HS Diploma or GED, a Valid Texas Diver’s License with acceptable driving record. Apply at www.giveblood.org Have the summer of your life at prestigious coed sleepaway camp in the beautiful Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, 2.5 hours from NYC. We’re seeking counselors who can teach any Team& Individual Sports, Tennis, Gymnastics, Horseback Riding, Mt-Biking, Skate Park, Theatre, Tech Theatre, Circuis, Magic, Arts & Crafts, Pioneering, Climbing Tower, Water Sports, Music, Dance or Science. Great saleries and perks. Plenty of free time. Internships available for many majors. On-campus interviews on 2/2. Apply online at www.islandlake.com. Call 800-869-6083 between 9 and 5 eastern time on weekdays for more information. info@islandlake.com Healthcare technology firm MEMdata now hiring. Local, just minutes from campus. Part-time openings (20 hrs/wk minimum), M-F 8 to 5. Flexible Hours. Good Verbal Communication and Computer Skills a Must. $8/hr plus bonus. E-mail resumes to careers@memdata.com or fax to 979-695-1954. Local Ag businessman seeks aggressive self starting male students for 5 hours each Saturday. No selling, top pay. Call 979-696-0203, 8-10am only. Looking for a male/female student that can drive a tractor, weld, handle a chainsaw. Need help all-day Saturday and Sunday afternoons. $10/hr. Email dmspeed43@verizon.net
HELP WANTED
ROOMMATES
Now hiring waitresses, door girls, and entertainers. Apply in person at Silk Stocking Lounge. College Station. One on one Affordable Tutoring! Subjects include Math, Statistics, and English. Call Katy at 979-220-0874 or email Kate05@attm.net for more informtaion! Sell VIP cards! Make $5 for every $10 Aggieland VIP card you sell. No limit. Contact sean@aggielandvip.com STUDENTPAYOUTS.COM Paid survey takers needed in College Station. 100% free to join. Click on surveys. The Corner Bar &Grill now hiring. Apply in person at 9pm monday thru wednesday. All positions available. Web Content Editor needed, Part-time, Paid hourly, 20-35hrs/wk. Good written/oral communication skills necessary. Responsibilities include web layout , text content/migration, and client communication. Submit marketing writing samples and resume to work@agnitek.com
puzzle answers can be found online at www.thebatt.com
Female roomate needed ASAP. $310/mo +utilities &internet. Large bedroom &bathroom. Three miles from campus, next to bus stop. Jeanette 832-788-5531. Christina 832-660-1593.
Serious female roommate needed for nice 4br house. Bedrooms have private bath. $525/mo + 1/4 monthly bills. 817-776-0868.
Serious roommate for 2/1 house two blocks from campus. Small pets welcome w/o deposit. $275 plus half of bills. 972-757-6491.
Need a Tutor? Friendly, helpful one-on-one private tutors for all subjects at TAMU/Blinn and Sam Houston State. Check us out at www.99tutors.com, 979-255-3655.
the
battalion Classified Advertising Easy Affordable Effective
Two females needing roommates ASAP in 4/4 Gateway Villas townhouse. Rent is $400/month +1/4 bills. 5 minutes from campus, close to shopping and restaurants! 817-706-6506.
For information, call 845-0569
SERVICES Conversational Czech language class. Call Trent 618-334-4584 or e-mail trentpearson@gmail.com
Youth Minister- Restoration Church is a dynamic growing fellowship that won’t stay small for long... and we’re looking for a sold out follower of Jesus Christ to begin building a vibrant Christ- centered Youth Group! Must love working with teens, not be afraid of humble beginnings, be fun, yet firm when needed, and be committed to your ministry. We don’t just want an employee, we want someone who will be part of the family! You must attend worship and one weekly youth meeting! If you’re serious about winning teens and building a youth ministry, call Pastor Mark at 979-229-9614!
MUSIC Party Block Mobile DJ- Peter Block, professional 22yrs experience. Specializing in Weddings, TAMU functions, lights/smoke. Mobile to anywhere. Book early!! 979-693-6294. http://www.partyblockdj.com
PETS A+Teacup puppies: Maltese, Shorkies, Maltipoos, Yorkies &Poodles. $500 &up. 979-324-2866, linda_d_54@yahoo.com Adopt Pets: Dogs, Cats, Puppies, Kittens, Many purebreds. Brazos Animal Shelter, 979-775-5755, www.brazosanimalshelter.org ASCA Australian Shepherd Puppies. Male, $300-$350. 936-327-1625
REAL ESTATE
STUDIES IN PROGRESS ACNE STUDY
We Buy Houses. Cash or take over payments. 979-220-3700.
SKI SPRING BREAK 2010! breckenridge
Vail • Beaver Creek • Keystone • Arapahoe Basin
Musicians needed for small baptist church Sunday services. Instruments needed are drums, strings, and brass. Contact Mary at mary@christsway.org or 979-776-5000.
TUTORS
20 Mountains. 5 Resorts. 1 Price. FROM ONLY
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Volunteers between the ages of 12 and 45, with facial acne are needed to participate in a 12-week clinical research study with an investigational topical medication. All eligible volunteers will receive at no cost: • Study related acne evaluations by a dermatologist • Study related medication • Reimbursement up to $250.00 for time and effort For more information please contact:
RED DRY SCALY PATCHES OF SKIN ATOPIC DERMATITIS STUDY (ECZEMA) Volunteers ages 18 - 64 needed to participate in up to 12 week long clinical research study with an investigational topical medication for atopic dermatitis (RED, DRY, SCALY PATCHES OF SKIN). Eligible volunteers will receive at no cost: • Study related medication • Physical Examination • Dermatological Assessments • Compensation up to $675.00 for time and travel For more information please contact:
ATHLETE’S FOOT STUDY www.AggieNetwork.com
Volunteers ages 17 and older are needed to participate in a 6 week clinical research study with an investigational topical medication for the treatment of Athlete’s foot. Eligible volunteers will need to make 3 office visits and receive at no cost: • Study related medication • Medical examinations relating to their athlete’s foot • Compensation up to $120 for time and effort For more information please contact:
BACK PAIN STUDY Volunteers ages 18 and older who have recently experienced a back strain are needed to participate in a 2 week long clinical research study with an approved patch for the treatment of acute back pain. Participants will need to make 4 office visits over the 2 week period. Eligible volunteers will receive: • Physical Exam • Study Related Examinations by a Doctor • Compensation up to $300 for time and effort For more information please contact:
J&S Studies, Inc. 979-774-5933 1710 Crescent Pointe Parkway, College Station, TX 77845 www.js-studies.com
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MAILCALL GUESTCOLUMNS Make your opinion known by submitting Mail Call or guest columns to The Battalion. Mail
EDITORIAL BOARD The Battalion’s editorial opinion is determined by its Board of Opinion, with the editor in chief having final responsibility. Editor in Chief Amanda Casanova editor@thebatt.com Managing Editor Jill Beathard battcopy@thebatt.com Opinion Editor Ian McPhail opinion@thebatt.com
EDITORIAL
Hoping Obama delivers
W
ith talk of a possible 5 percent budget reduction and rising tuition costs, Texas A&M, along with other colleges across the country, is feeling the squeeze of a struggling economy. While President Barack Obama’s State of the Union address glossed over “serious financial reform,” health care and federal spending, he also touched on legislation that will affect student lending. In his plan, the government would become the direct lender for federal student loans and get rid of a program that depends on private banks to make federally guaranteed loans. The government Students would take can’t the potenafford empty tial savings promises from cutfrom our ting out government. the banks, $87 billion, and increase the amount of Pell Grants and give $10,000 tax credit for four years of college to students. He also urged for a cap on loan repayments at 10 percent of income and forgiving debts after 20 years, or 10 years if the student elects to work in public service. It sounds promising. It sounds optimistic. It sounds encouraging. And we hope he follows through. College is undeniably expensive. According to the College Board, half of full-time undergraduates in the country borrow a combined $57 billion each year in federal student loans. At A&M, the average debt of a graduate in 2008 was more than $23,000, according to The Project on Student Debt. Obama’s effort to relieve some of the pressure from spiking tuition rates feels like a monopoly on student lending — unless the potential savings are realized and millions of needy students get the opportunity to attend college. Until then we’ll call it hope.
Pg. 7-1.28.10.indd 1
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call must be fewer than 200 words. Guest columns must be fewer than 700 words. All submissions should focus on issues, become property of The Battalion and are subject to editing for style, clarity and space concerns. Anonymous letters will be read, but not printed. Direct all correspondence to: Editor in chief of The Battalion (979) 845-3315 | mailcall@ thebatt.com
voices
thebattalion 01.28.2010
page7
Fixing
our future
P
resident Obama delivered the yearly State of the Union Address to a joint session of Congress Wednesday. He briefly outlined the challenges his administration faced in the preceding year and its accomplishments but the primary focus of the address was to present a road map for the government’s policies in the coming year.
Daypacks • Outerwear • Tents • Beanies • Gloves • Rainwear • Fleecewear
The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the various authors and forum participants in this paper do not necessarily reflect those of Texas A&M University, The Battalion or its staff.
Backpacks • Sleeping Bags • Daypacks • Outerwear • Tents • Beanies
Gloves • Rainwear • Fleecewear • Down Jackets • Backpacks • Sleeping Bags
EDITOR’SNOTE
Northface Half Dome Hoodies
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25.00
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Next door to Chili’s
Abid H. Mujtaba
Party’s stone-walling results in the failure of any meaningful healthcare reform, the outcome will be unforgivable in the face of the medical hardships American families are facing everyday. The president spoke of the need to reduce the deficit and announced plans to freeze spending on all discretionary government programs other than Medicare, MedHeavy emphasis was laid on unemployicaid, Social Security and national security ment. The president said, “jobs must be beginning in 2011. Once again there was a our number one focus in 2010, and that lack of detail in this regards and as a graduis why I am calling for a new jobs bill toate student I wait with some trepidation night.” He proposed using “$30 billion of for a list of the exact programs that will be the money Wall Street banks have repaid slashed under this initiative. and use it to help community banks give The president re-iterated his commitsmall businesses the credit they need to stay ment to national security and announced the afloat.” This move will be accompanied withdrawal of all U.S. combat troops from by a removal of the Capital Gains Tax on Iraq by this August and from Afghanistan by small businesses and a tax credit for those July 2011. This will also be the year that the that hire new workers or raise the wages of president attempts to get “Don’t Ask Don’t current employees. Tell” repealed and I wish him the very best The president’s plans were in sync with in this regard. the standard Republican idea of tax-reThe speech contained scattered references duction as a means for economic growth, to the growing cynicism of the American although the president did make it clear that public about Washington, a cynicism I have his focus was on small businesses and that he come to share. The president chided definitely regarded the greed of bigboth parties, telling the Demobusiness as the villain of the piece. crats that “we still have the The issue of education was President Obama largest majority in decades, raised with the president stating and the people expect us to inherited a “the best anti-poverty program solve some problems, not country full is a world-class education. In run for the hills.” Hopeof problems; this country, the success of our fully this will force the cooperation can children cannot depend more Democratic Party to grow offer solutions. on where they live than their a backbone and actually potential.” He urged the Senate make use of their majority. to pass a bill revitalizing community The president pointed out colleges and announced $10,000 tax to the Republicans that “[if your] credits for families of students in college leadership is going to insist that sixty votes along with an increase in Pell Grants. The in the Senate are required to do any busipresident announced plans to forgive stuness at all in this town, then the responsibildent-loan debt after 20 years post-college, ity to govern is now yours as well… We and ten years if the student enters public were sent here to serve our citizens, not service. “In the United States of America, our ambitions. So let’s show the American no one should go broke because they chose people that we can do it together.” Finally to go to college.” the Administration is sharing some of the I couldn’t agree more with the presiblame for the inaction with the Republident’s sentiments here. We will all be waitcans for their disgraceful and indiscriminate ing for details on the student loan caps and stonewalling tactics in the Senate, especially how the government will judge income in now that the Democrats have lost their our post-academic endeavors. filibuster-proof majority with the election Speaking of the woes of middle-class of Sen. Scott Brown from Massachusetts. families, Obama stressed the importance of Nothing could have ended the address healthcare reform as a means of alleviating better than the words the president used. their burden. The president declared his “We have finished a difficult year. We have openness to alternate solutions as long as come through a difficult decade. But a new they would “bring down premiums, bring year has come. A new decade stretches down the deficit, cover the uninsured, before us. We don’t quit. I don’t quit. Let’s strengthen Medicare for seniors, and stop seize this moment – to start anew, to carry insurance company abuses.” the dream forward, and to strengthen our It remains to be seen if his passionate union once more.” appeal to the Republican Party will have any effect in making headway getting Abid Mujtaba is a graduate physics major. the current bill passed or on new legislation being generated. If the Republican
Cindy is a picky eater.
Good thing she has a
meal plan.
Satisfy your Hunger! Sign-up for your 2010 Spring meal plan dining.tamu.edu
CAMP DAY
UNIVERSITY DINING
®
All
Ma
jor
sW
elc
om
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Tuesday, February 2 9:30 am - 3:30 pm Sbisa Dining Hall Quiet Room Camps will be Interviewing for Summer Counselors & Staff Sponsored by: the Department of Recreation, Park and Tourism Sciences, the Recreation, Park and Tourism Sciences Club, AgriLife Extension and the TAMU Career Center Additional opportunities at the Career Fair on February 15, 2010 to be held in Exhibit Hall. Watch the Batt for more details.
1/28/10 12:32 AM
news
Good thing he has a meal plan.
thursday 1.28.2010
Dean provides international experience to Bush school Blanca Guerrero Special to The Battalion From Iraq to College Station, Ambassador Ryan C. Crocker is finding a welcome from the Bush School of Government and Public Service in his job as dean. Though the site has changed, the same busy schedule awaits Crocker as he hurdles his first few days on the job. After his arrival in College Station this weekend, Crocker began the week of the semester by meeting with his administrative team, as well as the provost and president-elect to learn more about the Bush School and the University, said Sam Kirkpatrick, executive dean for Academic Affairs and Management. Prior to his arrival at Texas A&M, Crocker served as U.S. Ambassador to Iraq from 20072009 under the appointment of former President George W. Bush. He cooperated with the Iraqi government in creating leadership throughout the country. Crocker decided to take a job at A&M after first visiting the campus in March. He said the enthusiasm and commitment of A&M students to public
Senate
Good thing she has a meal plan.
Continued from page 1
keep this road open. As the master plan describes it, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the spine of campus. If this road closes, you have to leave campus to get back on campus.â&#x20AC;? After discussion, senators voted to refer the bill back to the Student Services Committee in order to research the topic and collect student opinion. The Senate also listened to a presentation by the Texas Department of Transportation, which spoke on progressing plans to renovate Northgate to improve vehicle and pedestrian traffic. The City of College Station is looking at a plan that would include changing the intersection at Wellborn Road and University Drive and transforming part of College Main and Houston Street at University Drive into a pedestrian mall. The ideas behind the plan stem from various appraisals of the state of Northgate. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A lot of what got it started was the community. The college did a master plan, and the city has done a number of master plans looking at what to do with Northgate,â&#x20AC;? said Maury Jacob, a TxDOT representative. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The first thing we saw was we had a couple of issues down Wellborn Road corridors. There are a lot of things going on at once. We decided the first
Texas A&M Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s George Bush School of Government and Public Serviceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new dean, Ryan C. Crocker. His appointment was effective beginning January 25, 2010. Crocker previously served as the U.S. Ambassador to Iraq.
Jeramie Heflin â&#x20AC;&#x201D; THE BATTALION
thing we needed to do was slow down that traffic.â&#x20AC;? The plan would transform the intersection from the turning yields into a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;T-intersectionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; that would require vehicles to slow down and stop. The intersection of University Drive at Boyett would be altered into a signaled intersection with Pathway additional crosswalks. plans Renovation would also inStudents can clude closing College Main between University Drive and consult the Patricia to vehicle traffic and Web site http:// creating a pedestrian mall. The senate.tamu. mall would continue onto the edu or directly Texas A&M campus through contact their Houston Street. Jacob said the senator. change would not hamper vehicle traffic onto campus at the Houston Street intersection. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll create a new Houston Street entry from the eastbound lanes of University Drive,â&#x20AC;? Jacob said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There will be a pedestrian mall but there will be a new street entrance. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not going to be affecting Lot 30 at all.â&#x20AC;?
UNIVERSITY DINING
the MSC, a fact senators said most students are unaware of. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The current plan is to permanently close this section to traffic and turn the street into a pedestrian mall,â&#x20AC;? said Justin Pulliam, senator from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not just any road. This is a road that links the north and south side of campus. It is also a link between east and west campus.â&#x20AC;? Senators said other campus roadways are being investigated as pedestrian walkways. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It seems like theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re shutting down every avenue around campus,â&#x20AC;? Simmons said. Joe Routt is considered a major passageway for traffic between large portions of campus. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is one of the only roads on the master plan that they were planning on leaving open, but now they want to close it,â&#x20AC;? said Taylor Smith, senator from the College of Engineering. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got to
service helped him make the decision to come to Aggieland. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Meeting with the Bush students had a lasting impact on me,â&#x20AC;? Crocker said. Kirkpatrick said he is excited about the appointment of Crocker and he will bring tremendous experience and be a wonderful addition to the Bush School. In a statement, President-elect R. Bowen Loftin expressed that he was extremely pleased to have Crocker join A&M. He said he is most impressed by Crockerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;selfless service â&#x20AC;&#x201D; one of our core values â&#x20AC;&#x201D; that he exhibited throughout his impressive career.â&#x20AC;? One of the Bush Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goals is to prepare students for leadership positions in public and nonprofit sectors. With the addition of Crocker, the Bush School hopes to use his experiences to maintain the public service sector at the University at a level that sets it apart from other universities, Loftin said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I look forward to working alongside Ambassador Crocker in elevating the Bush School and ensuring that we receive recognition for the important work we do in preparing students for careers in public service,â&#x20AC;? Loftin said.
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dining.tamu.edu
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Good thing he has a meal plan.
thebattalion
Acct 209
Part 1 of 4 Tue Feb 27 7pm-10pm
Part 2 of 4 Wed Feb 28 7pm-10pm
Part 3 of 4 Thu Mar 1 4pm-7pm
Pt 4 & Tst Rvw Sun Mar 4 3pm-7pm
Good thing he has a meal plan.
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+PF IBUFT UP DPPL
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page 8
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