The Battalion: February 2, 2010

thebattalion

this day in

rld wohistory

Feb. 2, 1887

● tuesday,

The Ground Hog Day tradition dates back to 1887, and though the origins are unclear, it is said to have originated from ancient European weather lore in which a badger or sacred bear predicts the weather, rather than a groundhog.

february 2, 2010

● serving

texas a&m since 1893

● first paper free – additional copies $1 ● © 2010 student media

thebatt.com

Golf preview Aggie men’s golf is playing in the Arizona invitational this week. Full story online.

coming wednesday

Inside the mind of a terrorist What is it exactly that turns a person’s moral compass from regular citizen to suicide and mass murder?

trends | 3

b!

Switchfoot review The band’s newest album, “Hello Hurricane,” brings their album count up to 7,000. How does this new one fare against the rest?

sports | 6

Golfing legend to be Freshman business major Cameron Peck is A&M’s newest golf prodigy.

voices | 9

Bigfoot mania Finally the legends all come down to this: who is Bigfoot, is he real and why do people keep saying they have seen him?

Jonny Green — THE BATTALION

Sign located in College Station near Post Oak Mall on Harvey Road warns residents about the safety measures that should be taken.

Tactical measures A&M students experience vehicular break-ins Samantha Johnson The Battalion The Insurance Council of Texas has become the most recent partner with the College Station Police Department in a program hoping to prevent auto thefts and burglaries.

The program places signs that read “LOCK your car, TAKE your keys and HIDE your belongings” in areas where cars are vulnerable to break-ins.

“It started out for us in November, and we had some private companies that donated funds for 25 signs at the mall and other locations,” said Lt. Rodney Sigler of the College Station Police Department.

The department hopes 100 signs the council

donated, along with the original 25, will help spread the message and raise awareness of the need to protect belongings.

“If you do these three things, then it makes there be less of a chance of you being a victim,” Sigler said.

Senior university studies major Natalie Bodner was the victim of a car burglary, but because she followed safety rules about what she left in her car, she was able to avoid having anything valuable stolen.

“I know it wasn’t smart, but left my car at the Hall overnight so I could drive some of my friends safely home,” Bodner said. “When I returned to get my car the next day, there was a note in the seat from a See Car on page 8

By the numbers 79% of Americans always lock their vehicles.

93% never leave spare keys in their vehicle.

1/3 admit they left their car while it was running.

47% don’t park in a well-lit area.

40% don’t hide their valuables.

1/4 have left a purse or wallet inside 1/2 leave mail 1/3 leave bank statements

Latin organizations raise funds for Haiti Groups collect more than $3,000 Blanca Guerrero The Battalion What do eight Hispanic organizations, the American Red Cross club at Texas A&M and a guitar have in common? The willingness to help their Haitian brethren.

So if you found yourself getting sung at last week while walking in front of Koldus, know it was for a

Sept. 20, 1988 – Nov. 26, 2009 Peter Luna

good cause.

Upon hearing news reports over disaster areas in the world, many are quick to jump to their feet and bring aid to their neighbors.

After the magnitude 7 earthquake hit Haiti on Jan. 12, Pablo Garcia president of the Colombian Student Association was moved to take action.

He came up with the idea to collaborate with the presidents of eight Hispanic organizations includ-

ing Bolivia, Colombia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Venezuela and the American Red Cross club at Texas A&M, to collect monetary donations.

With the help of Gen. Joseph Weber, vice president for student affairs, Garcia was able to obtain a permit in one day, something that usually takes three to four days.

The next step was to get the word out — with a Facebook page. Paola Ochoa, president of Mexican Student Association was the creator of the page along

June 12, 1989 – Nov. 29, 2009 Lauren Nicole Baker

Dec. 11, 1985 – Dec. 9, 2009 Daniel Allan Resnick

Inspirational challenges

Dancing for the heart and soul

Showing care for all creatures

Travis Lawson

Katy Ralston

Luz Moreno-Lozano

The Battalion Peter Luna always strived to be the best he could be, even after being diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in April 2008. Luna was a freshman general studies major at Texas A&M before he died with cancer comLuna plications on Thanksgiving Day in 2009.

“Peter was admired even before his battle with cancer,” said Luna’s friend Taylor Groveton.

“Many patients give up early in the battle, but Peter pushed harder each day and was determined to beat it.”

Luna was born on Sept. 20, 1988, in Mexia, Texas, to his parents Rosario and Margarita Luna. Luna is described by his loved ones as a

The Battalion Lauren Nicole Baker danced her way into the hearts and minds of the many people around her.

When she died Nov. 29, she left the world with one less dancer, daughter and friend.

“Lauren was a gift from God, Baker an angel here on earth. She was a blessing in my life and in the lives of countless others, and she continuously inspired others to become better individuals,” said roommate and close friend Sarah Griggs.

“Lauren will forever live in the hearts of all those whose lives she touched.”

Born June 12, 1989, the 20-year-old junior early education major, was killed coming back from Thanksgiving break when her car swerved

The Battalion Daniel Allan Resnick, a senior biomedical science major on his way to the College of Veterinary Medicine’s class of 2014, died Dec. 9 of an allergic reaction to anesthesia, a rare condition that not even his doctors had seen. He Resnick died three days before his 24th birthday and veterinary school interview. He was born on Dec. 11, 1985, to Holly and Steven Resnick.

“He was a very bright and amazing person who had an uplifting and unique perspective on life,” said Sarah Kline, Daniel’s fiancé.

At 14 he began working for Dr. Scott Grant and the New Concept Veterinarian Clinic in League City. His most immediate goal was to get

See Luna on page 5

See Baker on page 5

Pg. 1-2.2.10.indd 1

See Latin on page 8

Silver Taps The event will be in front of the Academic Building at 10:30 p.m. In order to reserve the integrity of the tradition all lights must be out and noise kept to a minimum. The Silver Taps tradition dates back to 1898 and is one of the oldest and most respected of the A&M traditions. For more information on Silver Taps and its history visit: http:// studentaffairs.tamu.

See Resnick on page 5

2/1/10 9:59 PM

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Canadian military officer Gen. Walter Natynczyk will speak at 4:30 p.m. Friday at the George Bush Library Orientation Theater.

Natynczyk will speak on U.S.-Canada relations and the Canadian military.

Wednesday showers likely high: 51 low: 45 Thursday showers likely high: 52 low: 41 Friday partly sunny high: 56 low: 40

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Tufts University professor of psychology Robert Sternberg will be speaking Feb. 9 at the Annenberg Presidential Conference Center at 7:30 p.m. Sternberg’s lecture “Creativity is a Decision” will focus on everyone’s ability to be creative.

Canadian officer to speak

3

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thebattalion 02.02.2010 For daily updates go to thebatt.com ● Facebook ● Twitter@thebattonline

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Monday’s issue of The Battalion incorrectly described two photos on page 8. The man is Kevin Crisman of the nautical archaeology department.

The ship model is of the ship La Belle, which was found on the coast of Texas in 1686.

The Battalion welcomes readers’ comments about published information that may require correction. We will pursue your concern to determine whether a correction needs to be published. Please e-mail at editor@ thebatt.com.

Phil to look at shadow today

Lecture crasher

Today is Groundhog Day and the looming question will be answered. Will there be six more weeks of winter or will there be an early spring?

The annual Groundhog Day celebration is held in Punxsutawney, Pa., where every year thousands gather to see if the groundhog Punxsutawney Phil will see his shadow. Last year Punxsutawney Phil retreated when he saw his shadow, signifying an extended winter.

Nancy Snead started the first Texas chapter of the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club, called the “Premiere Lonestar Texas Chapter.” She said it is important for people everywhere to celebrate Groundhog Day. “It lets us know if we are going to have six more weeks of winter so we can prepare for it,” Snead said. “That little prognosticator is almost always right.”

Texas A&M University has no current plans for Groundhog Day, and that is exactly why Snead is trying to keep the American tradition going.

“I have had a groundhog party for 40 years,” Snead said. “A lot of people in Texas don’t even know what a groundhog is.”

Sam Smith — THE BATTALION

A rogue ninja sophomore biology major that will remain unnamed was spotted in front of Harrington on Monday. The ninja claims to be on a maniacal “lecture-crashing” spree…

Travis Lawson, staff writer

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things you should know

5 before you go Free concert at church

1

Walking with presidents

Dr. Andrew Zohn, a classical guitarist and composer will play a free concert at 7:30 p.m. tonight at St. Thomas Episcopal Church. Zohn will perform works by Ferdinando Carulli, Alexandre Tansman, Domenico Scarlatti and his own original works.

The MSC Visual Arts Committee is presenting a photography exhibit called “Walking with Presidents� until Feb. 28 in the Wright Gallery in Langford Architecture Building. The exhibit documents the history of African-American political leaders.

2

MSC Forsyth student opening

3

The Forsyth Art Gallery will celebrate its student grand opening from 6-9 p.m. Thursday at its temporary location in downtown Bryan. There will be appetizers and live music along with the exhibition, “The American West: Then and Now,� running through Feb. 20.

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The Paul Dresher Ensemble

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Don Quixote exhibit

The Paul Dresher Ensemble, a contemporary performance ensemble, will be performing at 7:30 p.m. Thursday in Rudder Theater. Admission is $5 for students and $10 for general admission.

The Don Quixote 4 Million Volume Exhibit is featured in the Cushing Memorial Library displaying the University Libraries’ 4 millionth volume, a rare edition of Miguel de Cervantes’ Don Quixote de La Mancha, Parts I and II until Feb. 19.

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aggression in the song, said the band kept a quote t the end of last year, Switchin mind while choosing songs for the album, “If foot released their seventh you ain’t cryin’, why are you singing it?� www.villagefoods.com www.villagefoods.com album, “Hello Hurricane.� “Hello Hurricane� has the ability to take the We make it easy to eat...

We make it easy to drink better... listener through a range of emotions, even if it Contradictory to the title, the Lorelei Willett bring you to tears. The melodies from cover art of the album is a picture recruiting Fontamillas and Shirley along the way. doesn’t track to track seem to portray a storm with the of birds flying overhead in a sun- The band has toured worldwide since their ups and downs of tempo and harshness of Courtesy photos the chords. However, there is always humble beginnings and put out seven ny, calm sky, giving the onlooker Switchfoot’s “Hello Hurricane� that ‘light at the end of the tunnel’ including “The Beautiful Leta sense of warmth which matches albums album cover shows a clear blue sky “Hello Hurricane� feeling if you listen to the lyrics. down� with well-known songs “I contrary to it’s title to encourage is an emotional but the tracks the band decided to I think Switchfoot was successful Dare You to Move� and “Meant hope in the face of disaster. optimistic musical in getting their message of hope to Live.� include in this album.

“It was a great experience, but it journey for listeners. across to their listeners. holding on to you.� “It all came down to ‘what “[The album] is a statement of hope,� said wasn’t easy,� said Shirley of making Though I approve of almost everything in this songs do you want to die singing?’� guitarist Drew Shirley. the new album. new album — the musicality, lyrics, message — Shirley said.

Shirley said the band drew upon disasters like The band sifted through more than 80 .com .comfor me to get past the ‘highness’ of www.villagefoods www.villagefoods it is difficult One make of my itpersonal is “Sing it Out,�

Hurricane Katrina for inspiration, pushing tracksto foreat thebetter past two years trying to figure out Wethe make it easy We easy tofavorites eat better Foreman’s voice, although I think it compliments with its seemingly dark introduction followed by point that you can’t control the wind and storms, which were the best for this album. the overall tone of the album. uplifting notes that seem to carry you away into only how you react to them. “We were trying to rediscover our band. “Everyone has storms in their lives,� Shirley the sky and forget the darkness. Roughly, it’s saySwitchfoot, which also includes singer and [Finding] which songs were the most honsaid. “Destruction is tragic and painful, but ing not to be afraid to lean on someone else with composer Jon Foreman, bassist Tim Foreman, est and carried the most soul with the band,� ‘Hello Hurricane’ gives the hope that it is not the lyrics “Sing it out. Sing it out. Take what is drummer Chad Butler and keyboardist and guiShirley said. the final word.� left of me, and make it a melody — I can’t find tarist Jerome Fontamillas, was started 10 years ago Shirley, whose favorite song on “Hello Hurthe words to sing, you’d be my remedy. I’m in San Diego, California by Jon, Tim and Butler, ricane� is “Mess of Me� for the guitar pack and Lorelei Willett is a senior history major.

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thebattalion

Hear ye:

OK Go stands out

|this week| |we’re gonna do nostalgic songs:| |songs about the past| |about looking back| |upon a happier| |or different-ier| |thyme| |and you will like it| or i will put you to like it

1. Ben Folds “Still Fighting It” |i wonder how many folds he really has| Courtesy photo

2. Trout Fishing in America “Spider’s Fence”

OK Go’s third album shows innovation as well as skilled musical talent.

The intricate sounds OK Konopka’s skills are evident on Go are sporting on this album ”I Want You So Bad I Can’t are precocious and unlike their Breathe”; with its straight-up previous albums. Opening up the dance beats, you’re sure to get up record is “WTF?” in 5/4 time and and do a jig. “All Is Not Lost” infull of energy, escorted cludes dissonant but not ugly by a music video bass drum sounds and an produced entirely island feel while Kuwith props lash’s understated, bought from almost lazy vocals OK Go shakes up their a dollar store really shine. style on their third and bursting Strategically album leaving songs with webs inserted on the full of energy and of color that album is “Last interesting sounds. are enough Leaf,” the only to give you a stripped-down, headache. This acoustic piece and song, along with a nice break from several others, will the chaos of the other remind listeners of Prince’s songs. It’s simple, but beauti“Purple Rain” and draw thoughts ful. “Needing/Getting” embraces of their influences, The Pixies and harmonic electric guitars and an The Beatles. eerie melody line, “Needing’s one The following track “This thing, getting’s another.” There’s Too Shall Pass” entertains etheso much going on in this track real harmonies, incredible usage that it doesn’t sound good. I’m a of the musical rest and a strident fan of the lead vocalist’s Mikaxylophone. The music video for sounding timbre, especially on “In this track is too fantastic not to The Glass,” the final track. The mention, as it features members organ in this track’s a nice touch, of the Notre Dame marching but the song drags on a little too band and was, supposedly, all long with no reward. filmed in one take. You have to Rumor has it that OK Go see this thing for yourself. is creating videos for each of Containing raw, screamthe songs on the album – so far ing vocals is “Skyscapers,” that they’ve hired a team of engineers you’ve got to appreciate for from NASA, a Dutch artist and its peculiarity. Drummer Dan Media Lab students from MIT

Angela Washeck

I

f you should be the last autumn leaf hanging from the tree I’ll still be here waiting on the breeze to bring you down to me,” sings Damian Kulash of the group we have watched dance in a backyard and perform a choreographed frolic on treadmills with great precision – OK Go. The guys are back with their third album, their first since 2005, packing boisterous dance beats and psychedelic sounds reminiscent of the 1960s. “Of the Blue Colour of the Sky” features 13 tracks from the geeky and fashion-forward sweater-vest-wearing quartet originally from Chicago, satisfying its faithful listeners with sometimes overdone glam-rock.

|one of my very favorites|

3. The Weakerthans “Left and Leaving”

to one-up themselves from the success of “Here It Goes Again,” which earned them the title of most-viewed music video ever.

These guys are innovative geniuses wanting to grab your attention visually and musically, and so far, it’s working. What makes Damian, Dan, Tim and Andy stand out is their seemingly effortless ingenuity. OK Go is different without trying too hard and possesses a quirkiness that fans love — Damian is diligently working on a Lego Taj Mahal.

Damian says a major player in the sound of this album is producer Dave Fridmann, who can “do this massive, expansive, 3-D surreal beautiful world” and help craft rich, stacked songs.

The only issue the group runs into on “Of the Blue Colour of the Sky” is the occasional excess of instruments, volume imbalance and sometimes vocals. All things considered there can be no argument that OK Go has made a name for themselves in the music industry and in the hearts of avid listeners. This album deserves a spot on your iPod, probably on your treadmill running playlist.

|if a cat could sing, he would sound like this singer|

4. Janis Joplin “Me and Bobby McGee” |not to be confused with Stephen McGee|

5. Béla Fleck and the Flecktones “Big Country” |another of my very favorites|

6. Wilco “Hate it Here” |haatih! heeya!|

7. Celine Dion “It’s All Coming Back To Me Now” |epic, Ms. Dion|

8. Abigail Washburn and the Sparrow Quartet “Journey Home” |yet another favorite| this is a great list, dammit!

9. Explosions in the Sky “Your Hand in Mine” |go see them live|

10. Billy Joel “For the Longest Time” |love that a cappella|

Angela Washeck is a freshman communications major.

Buy them. |or so help me| charley

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news

page 5 tuesday 2.2.2010

thebattalion

Luna Continued from page 1

person who treasured life, friends and family.

Luna had a love for sports, especially baseball. “He was a great athlete and an even better student and pushed himself to the limits,� Groveton said. “His ambition continued to stay with him everywhere he went.�

His love for the sport was illustrated on his MySpace page where he compared his fight

Baker Continued from page 1

off the road and struck a tree.

Taylor Reed, who was friends with Baker since first grade, said losing Lauren was one of the hardest things to go through. “Lauren was the sweetest, most caring person that I have ever met. She is the best friend anyone could ever have. She is irreplaceable in my life,� Reed said. “I miss talking to her everyday. I miss seeing her smile. I miss her laugh. We would always text each other whenever. She would always end her text with ‘lol’ and I truly miss her ‘lol’ at the end of every text message.�

Friends and family agree Baker’s greatest passion was dance. Baker’s mother, Delaina, said Lauren got started in dancing as young as day care.

Resnick Continued from page 1

accepted to Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine. He hoped to become a small animal veterinarian, and he and Sarah hoped to eventually take over the New Concept Veterinary Clinic, where he worked for 10 years. “Ever since he could walk and talk he loved animals,� said Steven Resnick, Daniel’s father.

Daniel loved Texas A&M and it was a huge part of his life. After attending Fish Camp he knew that A&M was the place for him. He abso-

against cancer to the game he loved. “Baseball has always been my passion. I’ve always done pretty well defensively, but lacked skills as a hitter,� Luna said. “I especially hated curveballs which seemed to always throw me off balance. Now, life has thrown me a curveball.�

Luna will be remembered for his positive outlook on life and his infectious personality. “Peter was a very positive and upbeat person ‌ all he wanted to do was enjoy life with his family and friends,â€? said Luna’s brother Jose L. Luna. “Peter was the kind of person that made

everyone around him better.�

Friends and family of Luna remember his sense of humor. “Whoever was around him was laughing constantly because of his great humor,� Groveton said. “He would do anything to make someone laugh.�

Luna’s outgoingness and liveliness touched everyone he met, even at the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Jose said. “He befriended everyone he met, including nurses, doctors and other patients,� Jose said. “He

listened to everyone’s story and always provided words of encouragement.�

Luna will be loved and missed, but his personality and determination will never be forgotten. “I know you are watching over me,� Peter’s sister Patti Luna wrote on his Facebook page. “You are my inspiration.�

Peter’s battle with cancer is an inspiration to Aggies, and he will be remembered at Silver Taps today. “I can truly say my friend is my hero,�

Groveton said.

“She loved it very much; it meant a lot to her,�

Delaina said. “To the point that her Mother’s Day gift when she was younger she would make up dances to share with us, or she would just make them up in her spare time at home.� “She danced for joy, for celebrating, to show her feelings,� Delaina said. “She had a beautiful smile when she danced.�

Baker shared her passion for dance with the people around her as well. Baker would help choreograph her sorority Delta Zeta’s number for the annual Songfest charity event and encourage all the girls, regardless of their previous dance background, to participate. “She liked all kinds of dance,� Delaina said. “She had such a big heart; she was more into the lyrical type of dance.� “She had a heart of gold,� said Andy Baker, her father.

Baker’s heart extended to more than just danc-

ing. Baker was involved in Fish Camp as a counselor her sophomore and junior year. “She loved Fish Camp. It meant so much to her,� Delaina said. “She was hoping the Monday after she passed away she would have made cochair. Something we will never know, but something she really wanted.�

Baker attended St. Mary’s Catholic Church where, Reed said, she never missed a mass. “Lauren had the innate ability to find the good in everyone she met. She never spoke a mean word about anyone,� Griggs said. “Lauren also had an endless faith and a very deep, meaningful relationship with the Lord, which I would attribute to her amazing parents.�

Baker had planned on becoming an elementary school teacher, and her passion for kids was evident to all who knew her. “She definitely wanted to be a teacher, elementary education was her major. She just loved

kids,� Andy said.

Baker’s natural gift for teaching became clear when she started helping children as an elementary school reading tutor with the HOSTS program. One of the parents even hired Baker privately to help out her daughter who was having trouble reading and not keeping up in school.

Griggs said although Baker never made it into a classroom, Lauren has been a teacher to many throughout her life. “She taught people patience, love and faith in the human spirit,� Griggs said. “Most importantly, Lauren has taught us all to ‘count our blessings, not out troubles.’ Lauren has truly taught us all the value of friendship and showed us the true meaning of love and compassion.�

Baker is survived by her parents, Delaina and Andy; sister, Kristen; and grandparents, Art and Nancy Baker and Belva and Ferrel Naquin.

lutely fell in love with the traditions and culture A&M possessed.

Daniel wasn’t just interested in animals. He loved to play baseball, write poems, draw, complete puzzles, build models and create art. He also participated in his high school’s Peer Assistance Leadership Program in which he tutored elementary, intermediate and high school students in need. “He always listened carefully and gave insightful (usually correct) advice about anything and everything. He loved his family — his dad, mom,

brother and all of his aunts, uncles, cousins and grandparents,� Kline said.

Whenever Daniel developed an interest in something, he would completely dive in and it became a passion, Kline said. He had an incredible memory that he used to bring smiles to those that he reminded of a long past event. Daniel had a stubbornly strong work ethic, a deep empathy and understanding of people and an insatiable love of life and never let personal challenges get in the way of attaining his goals. “He almost immediately touched people’s

lives,� Resnick said. “You could talk to him once or twice and you would feel like we was a friend.�

Daniel and Sarah had plans to be married in June 2011. They had been dating since 2005 and were engaged in December 2006. “He was my best friend, my soul mate and the love of my life,� Kline said. “He let me know every day how much he loved me, and I did the same for him. That is something that I will never regret — he knew how much I loved him and how much he meant to me.�

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sports thebattalion 2.2.2010 page6

Freshman phenom Cameron Peck looks to add a college title to his already storied amateur career

By Michael Sullivan | The Battalion

Jeramie Heflin— THE BATTALION

On Nov. 18, 2008 many junior golfers scratched their heads and questioned the decision of Cameron Peck to sign with the then No. 22 golf team in the nation, Texas A&M. Six months later the nation understood as the Aggies captured the 2009 NCAA National Championship.

“They won the National Championship after I signed,” Peck said. “It is kind of funny because everyone was asking, ‘Why are you going to A&M?’ When we won I said, ‘That is why I am going to A&M.’” Arguably one of the most talented athletes to sign with A&M in any sport, Peck was tabbed as the No. 1 junior golfer by Polo Golf and the National Player of the Year by the American Junior Golf Association in 2008. After several visits to other schools, Peck decided to leave Olympia, Wash. and head south to A&M. “I went and visited a lot of schools, but when I came here I just really liked it,” Peck said.

“We have an awesome practice facility and everyone is really nice down here. I really felt comfortable when I came for my visit.”

At 18, Peck has already competed in two PGA Tour events including the St. Jude Classic and the Wyndham

Championship. After winning the U.S. Junior Amateur Championship, Peck was granted a two-year exemption into the U.S. Amateur and opened several opportunities to play with the pros.

“The biggest win of my career was the Junior U.S. Amateur and that was great because that just opened up a lot of opportunities for me,” Peck said.

“I got to go play on the PGA tour. Going out and getting to play against the pros was a lot of fun and I really enjoyed that.”

Heading into the fall A&M Head Coach J.T. Higgins expected Peck to make an impact on the Aggie roster right away. Higgins was not disappointed as Peck started in all four fall tournaments finishing with two top-5 individual finishes, leads the team with par or better scoring in 8 of his 12 rounds played, and averages just over 72 strokes per round, second on the team.

“We knew that he was able to compete with everyone right away, and we are really happy with the performance he has given us, “Higgins said.

“I think it is going to be nothing but getting better.”

Higgins said he is excited about the similarities between Peck and former A&M golfer Bronson Burgoon. When

A&M won the 2009 National Championship, it was Burgoon who hit a wedge within three inches on the 18th hole to seal the deal for the Aggies. Peck is on pace to take Burgoon’s A&M school record for averaging 73.07 strokes per round during his freshman year.

“There are more similarities than I ever knew [between Burgoon and Peck] and not just on the golf course,” Higgins said. “They are both very aggressive. They like to make a lot of birdies and they both fire at a lot of flags. They go about things the same in the way they prepare. Maybe they just have champion traits.”

As Peck heads into his second semester with the Aggies he is excited for the opportunity to head back to the course.

With two marks on his spring schedule, Peck is looking forward to the team’s trip to Hawaii for the John A. Burns Invitational and the chance to win a National Championship ring of his own.

“My game has held up really well and I am really excited coming into the spring,” Peck said. “This spring I really want to win the NCAA Championship again. I want a ring because all of last year’s team is walking around with championship rings and I want one too.”

Commissioner Goodell made the right decision

N

FL Commissioner Roger Goodell has had a few awful ideas. Placing an NFL team in London? Terrible. Expanding the regular season to 18 games, while bumping down the preseason to two games? Better, but still pretty bad. So, Commissioner Goodell, I offer you kudos for saving the Pro Bowl.

This year, 34 of the original choices missed the Pro Bowl because of injury or obligation to the Super Bowl. And yet, it was still the most watched Pro Bowl in a decade, with a 7.9 rating, up 39 percent from the year before. How? First and most obviously was the decision to put the game on during prime time, instead of in the afternoon like the year before. People are more likely to watch ridiculous things in prime time instead of in the middle of the day. I mean, this thing kept up with the Grammys.

Pg. 6-2.2.10.indd 1

Kyle Cunningham The next factor, the move to the week before the Super Bowl, is a bit more controversial.

By doing that, the game lost the “star power” it could have had with the NFL’s two best quarterbacks, Peyton Manning and Drew Brees.

By losing Manning, though, we saw the second best quarterback in the AFC, Matt Schaub, let it rip in front of a national audience. Without Drew Brees clogging up the depth chart, we were able to watch the disgustingly underrated

Aaron Rodgers go 15 of 19 through the air for Of course, by the fourth quarter, the stadium looked about as empty as Floyd Casey Stadium, two touchdowns. With Schaub, Rodgers and but I digress. The point was that fans were many other still-under-the-radar stars for paying to see a game that Goodell and, the casual fan to enjoy, there was new really, Tagliabue couldn’t give away life in the Pro Bowl.

Moving the Pro tickets to years ago. And oh, did One of the biggest factors for Bowl to before they sell tickets. This Pro Bowl lower sales at the gate in prior the Super Bowl had an attendance of 70,697. years was the fact that the Pro looks to have The next two Pro Bowls are Bowl was in Hawaii. Who was been a smart contractually obligated to Aloha going to Hawaii to watch a bunch choice.

Stadium in Honolulu for the next of millionaires play touch football? two years. And if Goodell is smart, But, by moving the game to the site those will be the last two years. of the Super Bowl, Goodell may have struck gold. There were already people in town Kyle Cunningham is a junior sports for the Super Bowl who had dropped hundreds management major. (if not thousands) of dollars to go to the Super Bowl, so why wouldn’t they drop a few more dollars to see some of the game’s stars?

2/1/10 6:17 PM

classifieds

thebattalion 2.2.2010 page7 PLACE

AN AD Phone 845-0569 or Fax 845-2678 The Grove, Bldg. #8901 Texas A&M University

ANNOUNCEMENTS Getting Married or Planning an Event? Make plans to attend the Spring Bridal Show and Benefit.

Sunday, February 21 from 11am-4pm at Brazos Valley Expo.

Over 100 booths! Grand prize: $1000 shopping spree. Proceeds benefit Brazos Valley Hospice. Tickets are $15 online at www.ido-ido.org or $20 at the door.

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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. $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.

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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 Brand new building!

1/1, 2/2 move-in now! Walk to campus.

3/2, 2/2 available in August. Call 979.255.5648.

Large private room over garage, perfect for student or single person, bills paid, no pets, no smoking, $350/mo, 823-8961 Master bedroom, nice mobile home with private bath and closet. $450, Central-air/ht, internet, cable, everything included. 210-364-7006.

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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. Child Care- FT & PT shifts available.

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Please share a brief work history and your interest by email to: j_cfoster@verizon.net before 2/5/10.

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Call Norman Concrete Services at 979-739-9392 for an appointment.

HELP WANTED

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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.

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Summer Camp Intern Needed. Are you looking for a fun place to serve this summer? Stoney Creek Ranch, a Christian camp in New Ulm, TX (easy drive from College Station) is looking for a summer intern. You’ll do various jobs helping campers enjoy their time at camp in a Christian environment. The reward is great! For more information, please contact Pam Gray (Class of 85’) at pam@stoneycreekranch.org or 713-851-7292. This is a fully paid position offering room and board and meals while working. Visit our website at www.stoneycreekranch.org The Callaway House, a private student housing residence hall, is accepting applications for P/T night desk. Apply in person at: 301 George Bush Drive West. EOE. The Corner Bar &Grill now hiring.

Apply in person at 9pm monday thru wednesday. All positions available.

Various duties from watering plants to driving tractor at our country home. Thursday or Friday and Saturday or Sunday. Minimum 4-6 hrs/wk, $8/hr. Respond to llgstar@aol.com put your name and number in subject line.

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Submit marketing writing samples and resume to work@agnitek.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!

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TAKE A PIECE OF A&M HISTORY WITH YOU · Order your 2010 Aggieland (if you haven’t) The 2010 Aggieland yearbook will be a 700-page record of the 2009-2010 Texas A&M school year.

Books will be mailed out during Fall 2010.

· Purchase the award-winning 2009 Aggieland (if you haven’t) The 107th edition of Texas A&M University’s official yearbook is a 624-page photojournalistic record of the 2008–2009 school year chronicling traditions, academics, the other education, sports, the Corps, greeks, groups and seniors and graduate students.

Drop by the Student Media office, Bldg. #8901 in The Grove (between Albritton Bell Tower and Cain Hall).

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Pg. 7-02-02-10.indd 1

2/1/10 1:26:51 PM

news

page 8 tuesday 2.2.2010

thebattalion

Study shows promiscuity linked to poverty, unemployment Brandi Tevebaugh The Battalion A new study conducted by counseling psychology doctoral candidate Matthew J. Davis suggests that increased sexual appetite and promiscuity may be linked to poverty and unemployment in young people.

“With the current economic crisis and the high rates of sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancies, it is important to understand factors related to higher risk sexual behavior,” Davis said.

Davis’s findings were published in the journal “Sexual Addiction and Compulsivity.” He began his research after a seminar on alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs attempted to define addiction. Davis said he wanted to know how behavior without a financial constraint, unlike alcohol abuse, would be impacted by unemployment.

“I think that the findings help us all understand the experience of poverty a bit better,” said Brian Colwell, associate professor at the Texas A&M Health Science Center School of Rural Public Health and department head of social and behavioral health. “The findings demonstrate to us the complexity of all human behavior, which is good for all of us to remember.”

The data was from interviews completed in 2006 of 2,362 participants ages 21-27. Their responses concerning sexual behavior, including number of partners, frequency and use of birth control and condoms, was considered. While the study is more important for young people not currently enrolled in college, the study is also relevant to A&M students, Davis said.

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police officer.”

The thieves popped open her back window and found her wallet, but she had taken all her cash and credit cards with her, except for a cancelled card the thieves later tried to use at a gas station.

“I would just advise people to not leave anything valuable in their cars, especially if you’re leaving it somewhere overnight,” Bodner said.

Latin Continued from page 1

with Garcia, and Ana Gabriela Monzon, president of the Guatemala Student Association.

“I was very proud to see the Latin American organizations and fellow Aggies helping our brothers and sisters in Haiti,” said Daniel Fonseca, a sophomore mechanical engineer major. Fonseca heard about the event through Facebook and friends. After donating he decided to stay and help collect donations.

A table was set up in front of Koldus for three days.

The organizations raised $3,061.64.

“We did not think we could raise so much,” said Garcia. “That’s roughly $1,000 per day.”

With a smile on her face and a guitar at hand, Perez stood in front of Koldus and volunteered for two days.

“College students are typically at a lower risk of the negative effects of unemployment and poverty because they have a functional social role,” Davis said. “Some students are not as actively engaged on campus and thus being unemployed may affect the sexual behavior and risk of these students.”

Students entering the job market during the economic slump may also find the study relevant.

“It might start affecting people as we drift off campus, but for now we’re kind of in a bubble,” said Diana Melendez, sophomore sociology major.

The connection between increased likelihood of multiple sexual partners, poverty and neglecting to use birth control could be explained by the time structure and social responsibility associated with employment.

“Behavior isn’t driven by one single factor, but by a wide array of factors that range from your genetic makeup that impacts how your brain manufactures different neurotransmitters to interpersonal relationships on up to social messages that tell us how we should behave,” Colwell said. “This research gives a picture of that complexity.”

Davis said he hopes that with a better understanding of this behavior, the negative outcomes of risky sexual behavior can be reduced.

“These findings were also important to highlight a new potential intervention point for reducing negative sexual health outcomes among young adults,” Davis said. “In order for interventions to be successful in reducing these behaviors, we must first understand why this relationship occurs.”

Another student was not so lucky. Junior recreation, park and tourism sciences major Chelsea Brewster saw the effects of what could happen if the safety precautions aren’t followed.

“A friend of mine and I went to the movies, and she left her purse in the seat of her car because she only wanted to take in her debit card,” she said. “When we got back to the car, her window was broken and her purse was gone.”

Brewster said she learned from her friend’s mistake.

“If she had hidden her purse, then all of the damage to her car window and the money she lost could’ve been avoided,” Brewster said. “I definitely think about that when I leave things in my car.”

“I was really excited about helping,” she said.

She said most people were nice about helping and after purchasing books, would donate their leftover change. “I think that one thing we all Aggies are, is that we are all very generous,” said Perez.

A vote was taken, and a decision was made to donate the money to the Save the Children Organization, an organization that works with children and families in the U.S. and around the world. With the aftermath of the earthquake in Haiti, the Save the Children Organization dispatched help to children in Haiti.

“We want to help the children because we are well aware that they are the educational institute and future of [Haiti] the country,” Garcia said.

The check will be made to the Save the Children Organization under the name of Texas A&M students. A letter will be included explaining that the Aggie family is behind them 100 percent.

“We as presidents want to thank all community for efforts and help — Not only students but faculty, staff and all who supported us on our mission to help all Haitians,” Garcia said.

Come visit us for GE Night on February 2 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Richardson 101

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2/1/10 10:08 PM

EDITOR’SNOTE 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.

MAILCALL GUESTCOLUMNS Make your opinion known by submitting Mail Call or guest columns to The Battalion. Mail

call must be fewer than 200 words and include the author’s name, classification, major and phone number. Staff and faculty must include title. Guest columns must be fewer than 700 words. All submissions should focus on issues not personalities, become property of The Battalion and are subject to editing for style, clarity and space concerns. Anonymous letters

‘

will be read, but not printed. The Battalion will print only one letter per author per month. No mail call will appear in The Battalion’s print or online editions before it is verified.

Direct all correspondence to: Editor in chief of The Battalion (979) 845-3315 | mailcall@thebatt.com

voices

thebattalion 02.02.2010

Believing in

Bigfoot S

asquatch draws a metaphorical line in the sand and, like other “monster” sightings, beckons the masses to cross the line and assert their belief or stand in opposition to it. Upon reading the word “Bigfoot” most people automatically kick into one of two modes: rabid believer or dismissive

The majority of people would fall into the dismissive scoffer category, but there are many misconceptions about the majestic primate known as Sasquatch. The perception most people have of Bigfoot exists only in grainy photographs and tabloid papers. Publications like the “Weekly World News,” who tout articles such as “I was Bigfoot’s Love Slave” paint the portrait that the Yeti exists only in the minds of crackpot loonies that photograph shadowy creatures in the more out of focus areas of the Pacific Northwest. But it might surprise you to know that Bigfoot sightings happen all over America, especially in Texas.

One of the first reports from Texas dates back to 1837 in the lower Navidad area, which is northeast of Victoria, Texas. In this encounter a group of men chased down a large furry bipedal creature, but their horses were reported to be so frightened they refused to get close, leading to the creature’s escape. The Karankawa America Indian Tribe, which once hailed from the coastal areas of Texas have stories that told of a tribe of hairy creatures that inhabit the woods that are now called the Piney Woods.

But the question still remains, why do so many people disbelieve so adamantly in the possibility of Bigfoot? Among the many arguments, two stand out in frequency. Some people will say that they cannot believe in a creature that has never been conclusively photographed or captured on video. But to answer this challenge, let us look to another elusive creature, the Colossal Squid.

The Colossal Squid was a creature chalked Bigfoot is out up to superstitious there... waiting sailors, conjuring for you to try stories of a vengeand take his ful sea that held vast beef jerky. merciless creatures.

Skepticism was rampant until 2007, when a live specimen was inadvertently captured by a New Zealand fishing vessel off the coast of Antarctica. Previous to this encounter the only evidence that existed was a few severely decomposed specimens — tentacles and beaks found mostly in the stomachs of Sperm whales.

“The most common reason given for discrediting the possibility of an undocumented primate in North America is the absence of a body or other compelling forms of physical evidence,” said Alton Higgins, assistant professor of biology at Mid-America Christian university

page9

Osazuwa Okundaye — THE BATTALION

Richard Creecy and board member at the Texas Bigfoot Research Center, TBRC. But this argument is truly unfounded, according to Higgins because of the habitat that

the Bigfoot species seems to favor. Heavily forested areas, with rainfall and dense vegetation do not preserve remains well, not to mention forest scavengers, insects, bacterial and fungal agents that break down and decompose bodies very quickly.

“In my opinion the best evidence exists in the form of the body of sighting accounts that have accumulated since the early days of European settlement,” Higgins said. “These reports correlate closely with the prehistoric oral histories of nearly all American Indian tribes that include clear descriptions of Sasquatch-like creatures.”

Higgins, a wildlife biologist, isn’t the only scientist convinced of the existence of Bigfoot in North America, but for many scientists the stigma that comes from voicing their beliefs on the subject is not worth the ridicule. But support and evidence for Sasquatch exists, with sightings throughout the country. It not too far-fetched to believe that another ape-like species could exist, and like the Colossal Squid, is only waiting for the day when mankind documents it.

Richard Creecy is a senior classics major and special to the Battalion.

The dark side of the moon

T

here are a lot of issues clamoring for attention right now. Universal healthcare, immigration reform, ongoing attempts at human cloning, the headlines are full of important stuff. But right now, there’s an even more immediate issue that affects each and every one of us. It’s about time we blew up the moon.

For those of you that have been out of the loop, NASA has already attempted this once.

On Oct. 9, NASA’s LCROSS (Lunar Crushing Recon Orbital Super Something) probe fired a 2.2 ton empty rocket into the surface of the moon. The LCROSS probe then made the ultimate sacrifice and commenced a “kamikaze dive” (those are National NASA has Geographic’s words, not mine) into our hated lunar enemy. explored The given reason for these enough of hostilities is to look for water the moon, ... as launching 2.2 ton rockets it’s time to into stuff is the traditional explode it. method of prospecting for H2O. (The Pentagon just gave up its search for water in Moscow).

Well, the Oct. 9 mission was certainly a step in the right direction, but we aren’t done yet.

NASA reports that LCROSS’s study shows that

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James Cavin water does indeed exist on the moon. Obviously, it’s time to finish the job. The sooner we destroy the moon and procure its tasty, tasty lunar water, the sooner I can quit drinking College Station’s mineral encrusted excuse for tap.

Of course, the restocking of the world’s dwindling water supply is only one of many reasons to destroy the moon. I have right here a Web site — sent to me by an alert coworker — dedicated to total lunar destruction where I can “Read true personal stories, chat, & get advice from a group of people who say ‘I Want to Blow Up the Moon, Its Annoying.’”

One of these inspirational true stories gives the following reasons why destroying the moon is our only option. It attracts werewolves, shines, doesn’t do anything useful, is not made of cheese and has holes in it. (Interestingly enough, over half of these also apply to 50 Cent ... I recommend the immediate commissioning of another missile).

I am far from the only person to agree with this course of action. A quick search on the popular social networking site Facebook reveals no fewer than 29 groups dedicated to lunar destruction. Well, one of them was actually titled, “Let’s blow up the sun and replace it with cheese,” created by people claiming to be

James Cavin — THE BATTALION

vampires, but I’m counting it anyways because ... well, we’ll need something to do once we’ve finished with the moon.

The blow up the moon petition to NASA at http://www.petitiononline.com has 1,860 signatures citing reasons ranging from a disapproval of the moon’s sexual orientation to the claim that it is Osama Bin Laden’s actual hiding place, and the argument that it will simply “show the commies we still have the power.”

The best and most rational argument by far has been presented by the Citizens’ Association to Blow Up the Moon.

“There are three main reasons why the Moon is so dangerous. The Moon is responsible for madness, lycanthropy and the destructive and

unexpected tidal forces that play havoc with our coastlines on a daily basis,” states their Facebook group page. “The threat posed to humanity by the Moon is greater now than at any other time in our history. The last time the Moon so threatened life on Earth was 65 million years ago, at the end of the Age of Dinosaurs. Unless we act soon, experts believe the next Great Extinction is inevitable.”

And now it’s angry. By failing to completely obliterate the moon on Oct. 9, NASA has left us all open to imminent retaliation. It’s them or us. Unless we act now and finish it off, we’re all doomed.

James Cavin is a senior English major.

2/1/10 7:08 PM

news

page 10 tuesday 2.2.2010

thebattalion

GUESTCOLUMN

Advancing an unappealing agenda

D

uring his address to Congress last week, President Barack Obama called for the opposition to join him and the Democrats to pursue his agenda. It is clear their idea of partisanship is for conservatives and other skeptics to agree with them. That doesn’t appear to be changing, and neither does their general unwillingness to listen to other ideas.

For most of his first year in office, Obama enjoyed high approval ratings and was supported by super-majorities in both houses in Congress. Several health care reform bills have been debated in Congress. Together, the Republicans voted 176-1 in the House and 39-0 in the Senate against a final version of the bill, and a version of the bill still passed in both chambers. Ultimately, their efforts still failed.

The bottom line is Obama does not have the support of the voters, or as former President Ronald Reagan liked to remind us, “we the people.” The polls have consistently shown that while the voters want health care costs lowered, they don’t want the kind of bill that Obama is supporting. Many of these voters have asked their elected leaders to find other solutions at the town hall meetings. The Republicans in Congress have submitted their own ideas, including their own health care reform bill.

Not only have the Democrats not been willing to listen to the opposition, but they stop at nothing to get their way. While the president was campaigning, he promised several times to have an open-door debate

Fred Iacoletti about health care and to televise it on C-SPAN. Obama also promised not to support any health care bill with earmarks, such as the one that Sen. Ben Nelson received behind closed doors in exchange for his vote. His promises were broken, and now so is the people’s trust.

In front of a national audience, Obama used his address Wednesday to lecture the nation about supporting his policies. He expressed little interest in listening to the opposition.

That is not leadership. If the Democrats are not willing to listen to the opposition because they think they know better than everyone else, then they deserve to be The cooperation humiliated in the next required election cycles. to address Scott Brown was the nation’s recently elected the new senator problems needs from Massachusetts. to come from His opponent Democrats too. promised to serve the leadership, but Brown repeated throughout his campaign and in his victory speech, “this is the people’s seat.” If our country is to move forward this year, our elected leaders in Washington must understand that they too serve “we the people.”

Fred Iacoletti is a graduate mathematics student.

MAILCALL Enoch Latham, senior international studies major.

I looked at the “Finances” section of CARPOOL’s Web site to try to understand their financial situation. It says their yearly budget is in excess of $140,000. It also goes into their costs: $75,000 a year for car rentals, over $20,000 a year for gas, and there is also $7,000 allocated for insurance. Combined these expenses equal only $102,000. Where is the rest of that money going to? According to their numbers, around $40,000 hasn’t been disclosed, which is many times more than most other student group budgets. There’s a lot of money flowing through the organization that obviously hasn’t been handled properly. Before they receive any donations from me, I want to see a detailed budget report that says almost exactly how much money is being spent and on what. I’d also caution other Aggies to use good judgment before they donate their money.

Obviously CARPOOL has either not been completely honest about its finances or they are unqualified to handle such a large amount of money.

From Sandy Fiorentini, senior chemistry major.

I am extremely disappointed The Battalion chose to acknowledge the offensive actions of Brother Jed “You Deserve H-E-Double-L” Smock by printing his picture Thursday. I understand that Brother Smock was within his rights to show up at our campus and espouse his wisdom, but I also firmly believe that there is a polite way and an impolite way to express one’s opinions.

Shouting at random passersby that they deserve to go down in flames is not only rude and negative, but more detrimentally may be seen as a disparagement of the religious views of many students. With so much talk about the vision 2020 goal of being more accepting of students of different backgrounds, I am shocked that The Battalion decided to remind us once more of Brother Smock’s offensive behavior. More people like Brother Smock will inevitably show up on campus, and I propose we simply do not acknowledge them. Then and only then will they get the clear message that their impolite actions have no place at Texas A&M.

Jeehyun Park, junior biomedical engineering major.

I am disappointed in the athletics department at Texas A&M regarding the injury of senior guard Derrick Roland. I am very surprised that The Battalion would so publicly and nonchalantly display the way the university spoils athletes. Although it is terrible that Roland was injured and will not be able to play basketball for the rest of his college career, it doesn’t makes any sense to give him special treatment and cart him around campus with his own personal chauffeur. This is not a new occurrence. Football players or basketball players get the special privilege of hitching rides around campus when they are injured, when there are obviously several other people struggling on crutches to get to class with a leg injury. It is almost like a slap in the face to other disabled students, saying they aren’t special enough to get assistance. I understand that athletes at A&M work extremely hard all year long to succeed in their contests, but they do not deserve “star treatment” that is rubbed in the faces of their fellow peers. Athletes especially should be able to get around on their own; they are stronger than the average person, of course. They should have enough respect for themselves not to be seen by the entire campus riding lazily to each and every class.

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2/1/10 7:10 PM