The Battalion: July 2, 2009

thebattalion ● thursday,

july 2, 2009

● serving

texas a&m since 1893

● first paper free – additional copies $1 ● © 2009 student media

Star-spangled

Celebration Brazos Valley residents commemorate nation’s independence with festivities

SATURDAY Washington-on-the-Brazos 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Festival food vendors on site 6:30 p.m. Free 1850s period children’s games 7 p.m. Free ice cream and free Coca-Cola drinks 8 p.m. Free “Back at the Ranch” Western Swing Concert with Patriotic Video 9 p.m. H-E-B presents Fireworks-on-the-Brazos “I Love America” 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Extended museum hours 5 p.m. Historical and fictional characters 5:30 p.m. Live entertainment, concessions and games for the children 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. Live music 9:40 p.m. Fireworks

By Meagan O’Toole-Pitts | The Battalion graphic by Jordan Bryan | The Battalion

I

ndependence Day events in the Brazos Valley this weekend will offer fireworks, food, fun and — due to the burn ban — will ensure a safer holiday, Bryan fire marshals said.

“Instead of breaking the law by purchasing fireworks and shooting them off in restricted areas, we encourage everyone to go to the professional pyrotechnics shows; watch the professionals do it,” said Bryan fire inspector and investigator William Bouse.

“We all need to be extra careful because of the drought conditions — it only makes it worse.”

Possessing, storing, selling or using fireworks within 5,000 feet of Bryan or College Station city limits is prohibited.

“Fines are $500 to $2,000,” Bouse said. “We’ll all be out patrolling — the patrolling officers and the fire department. We will be out there enforcing and writing citations.”

Setting off fireworks as a nonprofessional also poses personal injury risks, said Dr. Mark Lindsay, ophthalmologist and clinical assistant professor.

“Follow all the standard directions, or let trained people provide the fireworks display [while you] sit back on a lawn chair and watch them happen,” Lindsay said. “Some 200 to 400 people a year in the U.S. get permanent vision loss due to fireworks.”

Fireworks displays kick off Friday at the Brazos Valley Bank Ballpark after the Bombers game. On the Fourth of July, fireworks will be displayed at the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum “I Love America” celebration and Washingtonon-the-Brazos State Historic Site’s “Fireworks-on-the-Brazos.”

The last pyrotechnics show will be Sunday at the Texas World Speedway’s Second Annual “Red White & Blue Charity Extravaganza.”

The Barrington Living History Farm, part of Washingtonon-the-Brazos and the former residence of the last president of the Republic of Texas Anson Jones, offers spectators a look into history as a fully functioning 1850s farm in which staff members carry out the day’s chores dressed in period clothing.

“It’s an opportunity for our visitors to experience an important part of Texas history, while enjoying a family atmosphere and, of course, viewing the beautiful fireworks in the evening,” said Washington-on-the-Brazos office manager Shirleen McDonald.

“During the day we will have roaming musicians and the museum will have dulcimer musicians.”

Aerospace engineering senior receives prestigious award Patrique Ludan The Battalion Justin Wilkerson was named the top aerospace engineering senior in the U.S. as the 2009 recipient of the Ammon S. Andes National award from Sigma Gamma Tau, a National Aerospace Honor Society.

Wilkerson, who graduated in May, received the award in recognition of his academics, service and extracurricular achievements at Texas A&M University in aerospace engineering.

“Justin works hard on his studies, undergraduate research, service activities, and publications,” said aerospace engineering associate professor and national Sigma Gamma Tau President John Valasek in a statement. “This is a fitting reward for his accomplishments that we can all be proud of.”

Wilkerson of Amarillo, Texas, came to A&M with a scholarship package. He said he experienced a positive environment while visiting the campus as a high school senior.

Pg. 1-07.02.09.indd 1

“All around, there seemed to be a vibe, something in the air, that wasn’t at any other campus,” Wilkerson said.

During his 2008-2009 Sigma Gamma Tau presidency with a chapter at Texas A&M, Wilkerson WILKERSON had several responsibilities including, overseeing activities, and delegating duties to fellow officers.

“SGT is involved with tutoring undergrads, improving the aerospace engineering department, being a liaison between students and faculty, striving to connect the aerospace community, and working in the community,” Wilkerson said.

He said his academic success was tied to his passion for learning multiple subjects, from physics to politics, and mutations to philosophy.

However, Wilkerson mostly credits his mother,

SUNDAY 2nd Annual Red, White, and Blue Charity Extravaganza Noon to 5 p.m. Car Show 6:15 p.m. Burnout Contest 1 to 6 p.m. The Kid Zone 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. 5k Fun Run 9 p.m. Fireworks 6:45 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. Live music

See Fourth on page 4

This dog won’t eat your homework

Courtesy Photo

Officer Al Hauke, partnered with Falco, a 2-year-old Belgian Malinois, joined the K-9 Unit of the Bryan Police Department in October of 2008. inside | 4

See Aerospace on page 4

7/1/09 11:43 PM

corrections Frank Ashley, vice chancellor for academic affairs and a former faculty member and administrator at the University was misquoted in a page one story Tuesday. His quote should have read: “My wife is an Aggie, class of 1984. I love this University,” he said.

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.

how to apply If you are interested in writing or contributing content in The Battalion apply at thebatt.com, or call 845-3313.

The Battalion welcomes any Texas A&M student interested in writing for the arts, campus, metro or sports staffs to try out.

We encourage freshmen and sophomores to apply, but students may try out regardless of semester standing or major.

No previous experience is necessary.

pagetwo

Today High: 101 Low: 76 Hot

tthebattalion hebat 7.2.2009

inside thebattalion

Meagan O’Toole-Pitts

coming next week

city editor

Leading on campus

HOMETOWN: Ovilla, Texas

Once a week during the summer, The Battalion will be profiling a student leader to gain insight into their lives and what it takes to do their job. Next week’s student leader profile will highlight Jess Terrell, who is in charge of Parsons Mounted Cavalry.

CAREER TRACK: Junior communication major with a minor in journalism. Received an associate degree in journalism and broadcast media in El Paso.

MOST UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE ON THE JOB: My interview with Operation Santa Claus organizer Jerry Spurbeck at Fort Bliss. It was a long story but so interesting; it was hard to end. I learned a lot and that story turned out to be my best to date.

SOMETHING PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT ME: I donate plasma every week. When I was 5, I wrote my first short story, which I revered as a novel. ‘My Little Flower’ was the start of a long list of short stories, poems and aspirations to becoming a writer.

That life-long dream led me to seek a career as a journalist.

For a look at what goes on behind the scenes of The Battalion’s studentled newsroom, check out Editor in Chief Kalee Bumguardner’s blog.

battdesign. wordpress.com Graphics Chief Karen Cruickshanks talks about aspects of the design behind The Battalion in her blog Inside the Design.

WHY I AM WORKING FOR THE BATTALION: To expand my experience and help to make The Battalion the best student newspaper in the nation.

IF I HAD TWO SPARE HOURS, I WOULD: Read a book.

Ian McPhail: FDA shouldn’t control cigarettes

Jeremy Northum — THE BATTALION

Senior biomedical sciences major Jayton Bailey measures his heart rate Wednesday in a physiology class in the Veterinary Medical Sciences Building.

A memorial service honoring Jeffrey Scott Conant, 54, will be at noon Friday at First United Methodist Church of Bryan, followed by a private family burial.

Conant, department head, professor of marketing and presidential and Eppright professor for teaching excellence at Mays Business School, died early Tuesday at St. Joseph Regional Health Center in Bryan after contracting an infection that led to pneumonia.

Conant was born in Buffalo, N.Y., the son of Howard and Florence Christina Craft Conant.

He was a member of First United Methodist Church of Bryan, where he was on the Strategic Planning Committee, and was a faculty member of Texas A&M University since 1996.

He is survived by his wife, Carol Conant; his father,

Fans, news media flock to Neverland LOS OLIVOS, Calif. — Adoring fans and dozens of news crews poured into this bucolic town near Michael Jackson’s Neverland Ranch on Wednesday expecting to witness the finale to the story of the King of Pop — only to learn their hasty trips were unnecessary. A large crowd of mourners set up camp outside Neverland’s gates with lawn chairs and coolers of bottled water, while hotel rooms surrounding Jackson’s estate sold out within minutes of the first — and eventually, erroneous — reports Tuesday that the Jackson pop icon might be buried there. Residents of Los Olivos, who were plagued by reporters following Jackson’s 2003 arrest on child molestation charges, once more had their lives upended by streams of TV vans and fans eager to mark the passing of a pop culture giant. The excitement, however, appeared to be for nothing. A Jackson family spokesman said in a statement Wednesday that a public memorial was being planned, but it would not be held at Neverland. No further details were provided. Also Wednesday, a person with knowledge of the situation said that Jackson would likely be buried in Los Angeles, although the family could have a private memorial at Neverland after Jackson is buried.

Associated Press

AUSTIN, Texas — A special session of the Texas Legislature is in full swing.

Lawmakers convened the special session Wednesday and took steps to extend the life of several key state agencies.

Lawmakers want to wrap up the special session before the July Fourth holiday weekend.

Republican Gov. Rick Perry called the Legislature back to Austin to address three issues: preventing the agencies from expiring in 2010, authorizing $2 billion in bonds for road building and the transportation contracts. Lawmakers failed to approve those items in the regular session that ended June 1.

The Senate quickly passed the bill extending the Depart-

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NASA: Fuel test a go, shuttle launch set

Howard Somers Conant of Tucson, Ariz.; his daughter and son-in-law, Danielle Christine and Reilly Conant Garrett of El Paso; his sons, Scott Howard Conant and Trevor Robert Conant, both of College Station; his sister and brother-in-law, Judith and Gary Steinbach of Richmond, Ky.; two nieces and four nephews along with multitudes of colleagues, students and friends.

Family members have requested that memorials be made in Conant’s name to First United Methodist Church in Bryan, 506 East 28th St., Bryan, Texas, 77803.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Strickland Funeral Home in Somerville.

Staff Writer Jason Staggs

Texas Senate stamps key agencies bills

1805 Briarcrest, Bryan

Pg. 2-07.02.09.indd 1

voices | 5

Memorial service for Conant set for family, friends

Driving impulse

GOT PAIN FROM A BUMP, BRUISE, SPRAIN or STRAIN?

McALLEN, Texas — A Border Patrol agent shot a suspected illegal immigrant after an altercation in a Kingsville convenience store Wednesday. The agent, who was not identified, chased the man into the Kwik Pantry convenience store after he and other people ran from a vehicle the Border Patrol was pursuing around 8 a.m.

Inside the store, the immigrant fought the agent’s attempts to detain him and wrestled away the agent’s collapsable baton.

It was at that point that the agent, “fearing for his life,” shot the immigrant. The agent was unharmed.

The government has overreached its authority again by granting itself the power to alter even the taste and names of cigarettes in a noble effort to force citizens to make the “right” choice regarding their health.

Battalion staff blogs

thebattalion. wordpress.com

Agent shoots immigrant at border

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — To NASA’s relief, a fueling test on space shuttle Endeavour uncovered no hydrogen gas leaks Wednesday and paved the way for another launch attempt late next week for the delayed mission. Because of the successful test, NASA is now shooting for a launch attempt July 11. Endeavour is set to deliver one last piece of a Japanese space station lab.

Attorney: Stanford executive takes plea HOUSTON — An attorney for the former chief financial officer of indicted Texas financier R. Allen Stanford’s business empire says his client has reached a plea deal with federal prosecutors.

James M. Davis, 60, Stanford Financial Group’s former chief financial officer, has reached an agreement in which he will plead guilty.

ment of Transportation, the Department of Insurance and three other smaller agencies until Sept. 1, 2011. A House committee has passed the bill and the full chamber is expected to vote as early as Thursday.

Those agencies were supposed to be part of the normal renew and review process under Texas law during the regular session. But they got shoved aside when bickering over a voter identification bill and a standoff on transportation funding stalled bills in the final days before lawmakers left town.

The road bonds issue also is expected to get easy approval on Thursday. The bonds were approved by voters in 2007.

Associated Press

Associated Press

thebattalion THE INDEPENDENT STUDENT VOICE

OF

TEXAS A&M

SINCE

1893

Kalee Bumguardner, Editor in Chief Mattie Williamson, Managing Editor Meagan O’Toole-Pitts, City Editor Jill Beathard, Lifestyles Editor Brett Sebastian, Sports Editor

Jason Staggs, Opinion Editor Karen Cruickshanks, Graphics Chief Christine Soriaga, Photo Chief

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.

News: The Battalion news department is managed by students at Texas A&M University in Student Media, a unit of the Division of Student Affairs. News offices are in The Grove, Bldg. 8901. Newsroom phone: 979-845-3313; Fax: 979-845-2647; E-mail: metro@thebatt.com; website: http://www.thebatt.com.

Advertising: Publication of advertising does not imply sponsorship or endorsement by The Battalion. For campus, local, and national display advertising, call 979-845-2696. For classified advertising, call 979-8450569. Advertising offices are in The Grove, Bldg. 8901, and office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Fax: 979-845-2678.

Subscriptions: A part of the Student Services Fee entitles each Texas A&M student to pick up a single copy of The Battalion. First copy free, additional copies $1. Mail subscriptions are $125 per school year. To charge by Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express, call 979845-2613.

7/1/09 6:18 PM

scene

JULY EVENTS July 2 Strawberry Jam headlines at The Corner’s 2nd floor

thebattalion

Public Enemy, or public hero?

July 2 College Night at Texas Hall of Fame, admission free for 21 and up July 3 First Friday 6 p.m., Downtown Bryan July 4 Independence Day July 6 First day of Session II classes July 7 “Knowing” released on DVD July 9 Last day to add or drop courses for Session II

Logan West

Gangster flick leaves viewers with questions about right and wrong.

July 13 University Summer Performance Series presents a medalist from the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition 7:30 p.m., Annenberg Presidential Conference Center, $5 student admission July 15 “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” released in theaters July 17 Rattletree Marimba 10 p.m., Revolution Cafe & Bar in Bryan July 20 University Summer Performance Series presents acoustic show “Tin Roof Tango,” 7:30 p.m., Annenberg Presidential Conference Center, $5 student admission

I

n “Public Enemies,” director Michael Mann brings to life a tragic story from 1930s Chicago that is real, fantastic and digs at the wishes of freedom for which everyone longs. He presents it well with an all-star cast including Johnny Depp, Christian Bale and Academy Award winner Marion Cotillard.

Played by Johnny Depp, John Dillinger is a man who knows what he wants, why he wants it and how he is going to get it. He also has a charismatic personality and charm that makes him irresistible to women and revered by men. He is a simple man living by an exceptional code.

This code includes loyalty to friends, generosity to the poor and no remorse in punishing those around him who violate the code. The only problem is he robs banks, and the government does not appreciate it.

Dillinger, Public Enemy No. 1, is an outlaw who appeals to the public and hides among them because he is just like them. The one difference is that he has the audacity to take what he wants in a time of economic crisis, making him a hero and champion to the fascinated and impoverished public.

This is highly relatable in a time when we are experiencing an economic crisis, and Depp pulls off a persona with style

Sometimes less is more

July 24 Condiment Sandwich 10 p.m., Revolution Cafe & Bar in Bryan July 24 Last day to drop courses with no penalty for Session II (Q-drop deadline) July 30 Tisha B’ar, remembrance of the destruction of the Temple July 31 Theatre Company of Bryan-College Station opens “Damn Yankees”

and sophistication. However, today we only can experience bank robberies like Dillinger’s in the movies.

Unfortunately for a simple man like Dillinger, a complex enemy has arisen who does not care about the need and desires of one man nor the attention of the public. This enemy is science and technology as employed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

The FBI implements new means of catching criminals using scientific techniques. The spearhead of this method is Melvin Purvis, played by Bale.

Purvis is the moral opposite of Dillinger, but has several things in common with him. Purvis lives by a moral code much like Dillinger, they are both fully committed to what they do and they understand the cost of human life in their work. The difference between them is that while Dillinger is the Courtesy Photo charming controller of his environment, Purvis is a stiff and rigid robot controlled Johnny Depp plays John Dillinger, by the goals of the FBI. Considering his the legendary bank robber of 1930s acting abilities, Bale seems limited by such Chicago. a bland role.

Dillinger is arrested early in his success- when will it end? Where are they going ful career. He gets out of many situations with this? Open-ended questions ensue and prisons, but his tragic flaw is the about how he will save Billie. However, loyalty he has to his lover Billie Frechette, these are summed up after the lengthy played by Cotillard, a simple girl whom two-hour and 20 minute run time.

Dillinger picks out to join him in the Dillinger’s tragedy is not being able to exciting ride that is his life. give up on his ethics, no matter how disHis pride and loyalty lead him to Chitorted they might seem to the rest of us. cago again and again. Eventually, he is left This leads to the eventual victory of the alone, and his chase for freedom leads him FBI, but only after the bureau improves further and further down the rabbit hole by adapting to fight modern crime. into jobs he does not want to pull with Audiences will be left with questions people he does not trust. He continues about what is really right and wrong after to believe one last score will put him viewing this gangster film. over the top and allow him to run away forever. This all leads to a climactic and sorrowful ending, because Dillinger refuses to leave Billie behind.

Toward the end of the film, there are Logan West is a senior unexpected turns that make you wonder, political science major.

Clay Harley

Freeland overuses electronic music, lacks inspiration in album.

D

J and producer Adam Freeland moves in a new direction with his album, “Cope.”

Released under the band name Freeland June 9, “Cope” features Freeland’s usual electronic music but includes real instruments such as drums, electric guitars and vocals.

The album is worth a listen and will likely please Freeland’s fans and of the club music genre. Ultimately, though, it lacks inspiration and insight and suffers from repetition and overwhelming effects.

The album’s first track, “Do You,”

opens with a dynamic synthesizer lick and a satisfyingly fat and heavy drumbeat, making “Do You” a solid opener. Here, and throughout the album, Freeland takes advantage of the electronic aspect of his compositions by creating complex transitions and breakdowns using a variety of sounds. Often a section of any given song is ushered in with a measure or two of rhythmic computer samples, maintaining the listener’s interest and the song’s flow.

The fifth and best track of the album is “Mancry.” This is the only recording that was able to communicate feeling or inspiration. The song features a simple three-chord progression on a synthesizer, accentuated with intense drum patterns.

The synthesizer progression starts alone and pulses in time with the rhythm, subdividing the beat into 16th notes.

In the background, there is the sound of a phone ringing. As the energy intensifies, the drums enter with a tom-tom rhythm and crescendo into the first note of the progression each time it repeats.

After a substantial build-up, the drums cut out and the synthesizer plays alone, and then repeated. Though the progression

never materializes into anything, the track is nevertheless effective, and conveys feelings of sadness and hope.

One of the flaws of “Cope” is that many of its songs are too repetitive and lose listeners’ interest. “Mancry” is saved from this by its appealing nature, but in the other tracks, mediocre phrases or lyrics are repeated in excess, and songs become tedious to listen through.

Another weakness, also involving excess, is the overuse of synthesized sounds and effects. Every sound on the album, save for the drums, is ridden with fuzzy, grungy effects. Even the vocals are altered, often sounding like it is being sung through a megaphone.

“Cope” excels in technical aspects, and I would recommend a listen if music specifics interest you. It is also a solid electronic and club music album. However, most of the tracks seem fairly uninspired and aren’t able to communicate anything insightful or meaningful.

For full review, visit www.thebatt. com.

Clay Harley is a junior business administration major.

7.2.2009 page3

Hear Ye: |good day| |here are 10 more songs| |with which to pleasure your ears| |each of these songs’ titles includes a Name| |like a people Name| |what’s in a Name?| |i don’t know| |because i keep saying Name| |and now it sounds weird|





you know?

1. ALO – “Maria” |do you like ALO?|





cause you gonna

2. Pure Prairie League – “Amie” |the proper way to end a song| 3. Playradioplay! – “Madi Don’t Leave” |by a lad named Dan Hunter| |and i say lad| |because he is 19|

  what?!

4. Bob Dylan – “Ballad of Hollis Brown” |dark, dark, dark| 5. Blink 182 – “Dysentery Gary” |Blink still rocks|





so shut up

6. Simon and Garfunkel – “Cecilia” |raucous percussion| 7. Don McLean – “Vincent” |Van Gogh, that is| 8. Phish – “Julius” |it’s a friday song| 9. Death Cab for Cutie– “Cath…” |their drummer is so good|





darn him

10. Brand New – “Me vs. Maradona vs. Elvis” |oddly yet aptly titled|

Buy them. |so what’s in a Name after all?| |one’s identity, i suppose| |but my identity| |is a secret identity| |freaking TOP secret| |the other staff members at the batt don’t even know who i am| |no, just kidding - they do|





but you don’t

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7/1/09 11:39 PM

news

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BUSINESS HOURS

Phone 845-0569 or Fax 845-2678

8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday through Friday Insertion deadline: 1 p.m. prior business day

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Pg. 4-07.02.09.indd 1

4/2/2 House, close to campus, newly remodeled, available July or August. $1650/mo . aggieLandRentals.com 979-776-8984.

4bd/2ba house, 2,200sq./ft. All appliances included. Backs up to park w/b-ball court &track. On sorority row w/bus-route. 1-mile from campus.

Two spots available.

Call 713-443-2055.

4bd/2ba., 307 Timber Street, 3-blocks from TAMU, located in historic district, available for August, $1700/mo. 512-826-5334.

4bdrm/2ba house. Close to campus, wood floors, tile floors, ceiling fans, W/D, fenced yards. 979-776-6079, www.aggielandleasing.com 4br/2ba. 1115 Merry Oaks, available August 1st, for more info 214-704-3503.

5-bedroom house for lease. For more information 979-966-3913 or www.tricaprealty.com Apartment for lease, pool-side at the Zone, on bus route, available now through 7/2010, $560/mo.

713-823-6820.

Available 8/09. Bryan historic district, large 5-2 on large 1.3 acre lot, secluded, includes 2 bay metal garage with workshop, ideal for students with projects, pet friendly, handicap accessible, W/D connections, energy efficient. 806 E.29th $1700/mo. 979-255-5461. www.picketfenceproperties.net Available August 1st, 3bd/2ba, fenced backyard w/3 acres also fenced, ideal for horses or calves, on Highway 21E., $1200/mo.

979-774-0802.

Big 3/2 duplex with all appliances, lawncare, tile and carpet, fenced yard. $900. 979-324-5835.

Bryan huge 4-2 clean and quiet, historic area, large trees, w/d connections, fenced yard, students welcome. 701 Banks. $1300.

979-255-5461. www.picketfenceproperties.net Callaway Villas, furnished room, 1-month free, 4/2.5, $575/mo.

936-348-1561.

Cozy 2bdrm/2bth condo 3-blocks from campus, yard, w/d connections, over 1000sqft., no HUD, updated, $585/mo., 506-C College Main 254-289-0585. http://sites.google.com/site/aaarentalcs/ Duplex for rent, 2/1. No deposit. $675/ month rent.

Immaculate 3bd/2bth house. Updated. Fireplace, fenced. No pets. No HUD. $895/month. Off 2818 in Bryan.

Available July. 254-289-0585.

Large 2bdrm/2bs, 3204-Cougar Trail, Bryan. Water, sewer, &trash paid.

Everything’s new inside. $675/mo.

979-822-1616.

Newly remodeled 4/2 house. Walking distance to campus, tile &wood floors, great location, nice big deck &yard.

979-776-6079, www.aggielandleasing.com Nice 2/2 Duplex- On TAMU bus route! All appliances, NO PETS. $800/mo. Call 832-215-1801 or 832-338-5397.

Oak Creek Condos high-speed internet and basic cable. 2bdrm/1.5ba. $515/mo Water, sewer, trash paid.

Fireplace, icemaker, pool, hot-tub.

979-822-1616.

One room available in 3/2 on 3-acres, just four miles from campus. Horse property. $470/mo.

Cable/Internet provided.

858-442-4918.

Pre-leasing for August. 3b/1.5b, carport, on shuttle, pets ok, fenced, $750/month. aggieLandRentals.com 979-776-8984.

Quiet country atmosphere, fireplace, very large 1bdrm brick duplex. $415/mo. +bills.

No pets.

979-693-8534.

Room for lease under Helen Kline, Callaway House, available 6.23.09, call 979-260-7700 or 817-991-6803

puzzle answers can be found online at www.thebatt.com

HELP WANTED Assistant teachers part-time. Working with children 18-mo. through 6-yrs, great learning opportunity for education majors or anyone wanting experience working with children.

Please apply at swlccs@gmail.com or 979-693-6556.

Athletic men for calendars, books, etc. $100-$200/hr, up to $1000/day.

No experience. 512-684-8296, photoguy@io.com Career Apparel now hiring retail sales position P/T. Apply in person 4001 E. 29th #103. 979-260-2727.

Cleaning commercial buildings at night, M-F. Call 979-823-5031 for appointment.

Cook, cashier and runner, 7-day a week position. Background check Evening employment.

979-776-8135, call for an appointment.

Leasing agent needed, license required. Contact BrazosLand Properties 979-846-0606.

Part-time housekeeping Mon-Fri only, no weekends, general home cleaning and housekeeping, 10-15 hours per week, apply in person at 3131 Briarcrest Dr. Bryan, TX, Suite 112, Mon-Wed 1:30-2:30 PM. STUDENTPAYOUTS.COM Paid survey takers needed in College Station. 100% free to join. Click on surveys.

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 Teacup puppies: Maltese, Shorkies, Maltipoos, Yorkies &Poodles. $500 &up. 979-324-2866, linda_d_54@yahoo.com

ROOMMATES

2-roommates needed. 3/2 house, close to busroute. $350/mo. +1/3bills. 817-475-0093.

Male roommates wanted in 4bd $300/mo. +1/4 bills. house.

979-777-4379.

Roommate needed. 2bd/2ba on shuttle route, $500/mo., includes all bills. 936-591-1053.

Roommates needed. Two male roommates needed for 3/2 duplex off of University Drive in College Station. On TAMU and Blinn bus route. Great Location. Small deck and fenced yard. Small pets allowed w/deposit. Partially furnished, W/D included. Lease $350 per month and 1/3 of utilities. Call 361-230-9119 or 210-845-6474.

Available 8-15-09.

Sub-leasing one bedroom in 2bd/2.5ba Cottage at the Woodlands of College Station. $700/mo.

For information call 817-271-2939 or e-mail thebangor@yahoo.com Two roommates needed for 4/3.5 house on bus route, call 214-418-2425.

TUTORS ESL tutoring and editing, masters level teacher, $15/hour. cmizc@aol.com

the

battalion DmbttjÞfe!

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STUDIES IN PROGRESS ATHLETE’S FOOT STUDY Volunteers ages 12 and older are needed to participate in a clinical research study with an investigational topical medication for the treatment of Athlete’s foot. Study participation will be a maximum of 8 weeks. Eligible volunteers will receive at no cost: • Study related medication • Medical examinations relating to their athlete’s foot • Compensation of $50 per visit for maximum of $250 For more information please contact:

RED DRY SCALY PATCHES OF SKIN ATOPIC DERMATITIS STUDY (ECZEMA) Volunteers ages 18 and older needed to participate in a 6-week 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 ointment for 4 weeks • Physical Examination • Dermatological Assessments • 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

thebattalion

The Battalion The Bryan Police Department has added two new members to its force. Kohn and Falco, Belgian Malinois dogs, were trained to assist the night shift.

“They started [working] about a month ago,” said Sgt. Dean Swartzlander, K-9 unit supervisor.

The dogs were chosen from more than 20 others in Virginia Beach, Va. “There’s a battery test we put them through that determines their hunt drive, their fight drive and their agility,” Swartzlander said.

To test hunting drive, an officer throws a toy into a field, takes the dog opposite direction of the toy, then lets them off the leash and sees if the dog is willing to hunt for the toy.

“The hunting drive determines if the dog is willing to hunt for a suspect and narcotics,” Swartzlander said.

The fight drive is also important, Swartzlander said.

“You have to know the dog will do combat with a person if needed,” Swartzlander said.

The addition of Kohn, 3, and Falco, 4, brings the number of canines in the unit to three.

“They’re a huge asset to the city,” Swartzlander said. “Just the deterrent in crime has been a big help. They search for narcotics, suspects that get away, missing kids, and they search buildings that have been broken into.”

Fourth Continued from page 1

New to this year’s Washington-on-the-Brazos Independence Day celebration is Lott’s Tavern, an 1830s replica tavern.

“It’s an additional interpretive venue; everyone’s in period clothing. It’s like watching a live play; they are living the life,” McDonald said. “It’s like walking back in time.”

Alcohol is prohibited, in accordance with park regulations.

The H-E-B Buddy Kids Zone, also new to the event, will offer children’s games and activities, including a rock wall.

At the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum Fourth of July celebration, “I Love America,” historical characters Uncle Sam, Lady Liberty, Ben Franklin, Abraham Lincoln, George Washington, Martha Washington, Theodore Roosevelt and Betsy Ross will be available for photographs and offer educational tidbits. “[‘I Love America’] is an enjoyable family event that celebrates the birth of our nation,” said George Bush Presi-

Aerospace Continued from page 1

Paula Wilkerson, for his achievements. “[She] guided me in developing a passion for learning, and from [her] I gained perspective on the definition of a successful life, which extends well past anything accomplished in one’s career,” he said.

Wilkerson’s strong will and confidence stemmed from childhood, his mother said.

“His dad is black and I am white. Growing up in the Texas panhandle, it’s not something you see very much,” Paula said.

“The elementary he went to, Carver Academy Elementary, is a magnet school — they have to have so many black kids, Hispanics and whites. That made an impression on him because he didn’t experience racism at that school. It’s a multiracial school,” she said.

“He wasn’t singled out as a child of color and he feels like he can do anything. A&M reminds him of Carver because it’s very diverse there; a student from multiracial parents doesn’t stand out there.”

Wilkerson credited his research conducted on the fatigue of Nan composites to Valasek, his undergraduate research adviser Daniel Davis, Aerospace Engineering Interim Department Head Dimitris Lagoudas,

Kohn is the smaller of the two dogs, weighing 65 pounds compared to Falco’s 80 pounds. “[Kohn] still has some puppy in him,” said Kohn’s handler Officer Chad Hanks. “Sometimes if you give him an inch he’ll take it all.”

The dogs began training in October. They live with handlers and their families in Bryan.

“When [Kohn is] at home he’ll act differently,” Hanks said. “He’s a little more docile.

He knows when the lights go on it’s time to work.”

Falco is very sociable, said his handler Al Hauke.

“He’s real affectionate, a good dog. He’s awesome with my family. He’s really good with anybody. He interacts really good with my other pets, my two kids and my wife.”

Both Kohn and Falco competed in the Texas Police Olympics on Saturday.

“Falco won a bronze medal in obedience and my partner’s dog, Kohn, won silver overall and silver in fight work,” Hauke said.

The dogs also participate in demonstrations at functions such as Bryan Leadership, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts meetings and Bryan-College Station libraries Summer Book Club.

“On average, we do about 12 to 13 demonstrations a year,” Swartzlander said. “It’s a good way to have a positive outlook on the police department. We want people to know we’re not just out there to arrest people.”

dential Library and Museum public relations intern Tomeka Robinson. “I hope for it to continue for years to come.”

Darth Vader, Spock, NASA astronaut characters and children’s amusements, including inflatable jumps, will start the day’s festivities. Live entertainment in the evening includes the Texas Unlimited Band, Elvis impersonator Jason Adam and the Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra.

Texas World Speedway’s Second Annual “Red White & Blue Charity Extravaganza” will feature a car show, burnout contest, 5K fun run, kids zone, and ride-alongs with racing instructors.

Aside from the dangers of fireworks, grilling and longterm exposure to outside elements can also prove harmful, Bouse said.

“If you’re out in the county, be really careful barbecuing; be sure to have a fire extinguisher, water or some sort of extinguishment for your fire,” he said. “I think the clouds will clear pretty soon and it’ll be really hot again so use sunscreen, and drink lots of water to avoid dehydration.”

Award info The award was created and named for Ammon S. Andes in 1976 to bestow upon Andes a recognition of service to the society as national executive secretary-treasurer from 1964 to 1976. Texas A&M is tied with Purdue University at four each for the most Ammon S. Andes National Award recipients. and the aerospace department.

Davis, who is the director of operations for the Department of Aerospace Engineering, Texas Institute for Intelligent Bio-Nano Materials and Structures, was Wilkerson’s adviser his junior and senior years. “[Justin] very quickly understood the process of fatigue failure in composites,” Davis said.

Wilkerson was excellent in the way he communicated ideas and results of research, he said.

Wilkerson is looking forward to his career and is eager to help solve problems as a graduate student at A&M in the fall.

“I will be working toward my master’s of science, majoring in aerospace engineering again, specializing in materials,” he said.

He was awarded $1,000.

Valasek presented a plaque to Wilkerson at the Department of Aerospace Engineering Awards Banquet in May. Meagan O’Toole-Pitts contributed to this story.

7/1/09 11:42 PM

EDITOR’SNOTE

voices

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.

thebattalion 7.02.2008 page5

Stripping our rights away

Nothing mild about it

Ian McPhail

Administrators who ignore the civil liberties of students threaten the rights of all Americans.

T

he Supreme Court ruled Thursday against school officials in Arizona for a strip search of a 13-year-old girl. Justices ruled that school officials violated the Fourth Amendment’s ban on unreasonable searches when they ordered eighth-grader Savana Redding to remove her clothes and shake her underwear while searching for ibuprofen.

The incident shows a growing problem with public school officials, whose interpretation of laws designed to protect students has gone too far by restricting their civil rights. Children should be entitled to the full range of rights allotted to citizens, even when entering a building as sacred as a public school.

Stafford Middle School in rural eastern Arizona operates under a school district policy banning prescription and over-thecounter drugs.

School officials acted to enforce this policy based on a tip from a classmate of Redding, and decided that preventing the equivalent of two Advils from endangering the larger student population justified strip-searching a teenager.

Eight justices felt that school officials went too far only when they asked to search the girl’s underwear.

“What was missing from the suspected facts that pointed to Savana was any indication of danger to the students from the power of the drugs or their quantity, and any reason to suppose that Savana was carrying pills in her underwear,” Justice David Souter wrote in the Court’s majority opinion.

Also missing was any “reasonable suspicion” that would allow officials to search Savana’s purse or outer clothing, based on precedent set in a 1985 Supreme Court decision.

The school’s employees did not have a single fact that justified their abuse of this child, who did nothing wrong other than offending another teenage girl.

Laws in place restricting the use of legal medicine at school are in place to prevent a lawsuit against the school, not to give the principal the power to turn a public school into a prison. Stopping a teenager from popping pills that are generally harmless medicine does not require the full force of the law. Even had Savana had mild painkillers in her purse, her behavior would have warranted little more than a warning.

Unfortunately, in some cases public school officials have been forced to take on larger roles to protect children in school. Ensuring students’ safety should certainly remain a top priority, but educators should not become enforcers of the law.

Instead, officials need to concern themselves with only violating rights when there is a sufficient evidence to suspect a significant crime. The average teenager deserves a safe and reasonable enforcement of the laws designed to protect them.

Ian McPhail is a sophomore history major.

GUESTCOLUMN

Trying to protect individuals from themselves does not fit the scope of Congress’ powers, and threatens more than smokers.

Jordan Bryan— THE BATTALION

T

he U.S. Senate passed legislation on June 11 enabling the Food and Drug Administration to impose stricter controls on the manufacturing and marketing of cigarettes.

The government has overreached its authority again by granting itself the power to alter even the taste and names of cigarettes in a noble effort to force citizens to make the right choice regarding health.

This major victory for antismoking advocates comes again at the cost of personal liberty for a specific group of Americans, and sets a dangerously important precedent for the future regulation of the choices we are allowed to make as adults.

Rather than mandating that Americans smoke governmentapproved cigarettes, President Barack Obama and Congress should let people make their own decisions when it comes to the brand of smokes.

Already, anti-smoking supporters have won major political and legal battles in ensuring that their safety is assured. It is entirely reasonable for workspaces and airplanes to

It is known as the Bremond Summer Festival, or the Bremond Polish Day Festival, whichever you prefer.

I was fortunate enough to come across this celebration Saturday, where polka music and the smell of bratwurst sausage and pickles danced in the air with the hum of trucks, tractors and four-wheelers.

All that aside, the thing I found the most interesting at the festival was the campaign for Rob Curnock. He is running for Congress in the 2010 mid-term elections, and I hope he wins. He has been active politically for 18 years, but more importantly,

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This is only the first step in creating a nationally mandated cigarette so disgusting to the taste that the majority of smokers are coerced to quit.

Any adult who has made the decision to smoke deserve to inhale the flavor of his or her choosing, regardless of the possible effects it may have on soliciting first-time smokers.

The fact is that more teens make the decision to smoke based on peer pressure than the pleasant taste of a smoke.

But facts are unimportant to the anti-tobacco lobbyists, who want to eliminate the words “light” and “mild” from cigarettes because they might confuse buyers on the dangers of the product, which now will be printed in larger type on the label.

Continually ignored is the fact that smokers know the risks involved with tobacco, and the meaning of the word “light,” and simply do not need the government to be involved in making our choice for us.

Tobacco opponents pretend that smokers are too stupid to

make better decisions about their health, after being tricked into addiction by an evil cigarette company.

This position is wildly inaccurate; enough has been done to educate Americans on the adverse affects of tobacco to ensure every adult knows the risks involved in tobacco.

Adults who decide to ignore consequences to their health without harming others should be allowed to enjoy the cigarette of their choosing without interference from the government.

Just as the FDA does not alter the taste of foods that damage heart health in order to protect us against cardiovascular diseases — the No. 1 killer in America — so too should it not deny citizens the right to make any other educated decision about our own bodies.

The current powers held by the FDA serve no purpose other than stopping smoking at any cost, which is closer to fascism than freedom.

Ian McPhail is a sophomore history major.

When it comes to politics, everything is local

I

n the little town of Bremond, Texas, 42 miles north of College Station, there is a festival on the fourth Saturday of every June.

demand smokers take their fumes to another location.

However, as city and state governments around the country adopt more policies restricting smoking almost anywhere indoors and continues to raise sin taxes to unreasonable levels, it has become apparent that the anti-smoking crowd is not content with simply ensuring a reasonable degree of safety from second-hand smoke.

Anti-tobacco lobbyists have instead started a crusade against choice that begins with complete government control of the tobacco industry.

Beside giving the FDA power to set standards that could reduce the nicotine content of cigarettes, the law bans most tobacco flavorings, such as cloves, considering them a lure to first-time smokers.

A decision on the continued existence of Menthols was deferred for later study, but this sweeping restriction on cigarettes is unreasonable.

By eliminating mint, clove and other flavors, the FDA has laid the foundation necessary to alter the taste of tobacco further.

Matthew Johnson

For this concerned constituent, paying attention to detail is every bit as important as a candidate’s record on the issues. the ideas and principles on which he stands have been proven to work.

The most notable of these is that of strengthening and empowering local governments. I find the belief that local people are best equipped to solve local problems refreshing in a world where governments want to centralize

and consolidate power to a perceived intellectual elite who live in a far and distant capital.

Curnock’s platform does not end there. He believes in the rights written and expressed in the U.S. Constitution, not rights which are perceived.

We should be wary of inventing or finding rights in the Constitution, because a government that has the capacity to give people rights will someday have the will and the means to take away those rights.

He promotes a national sales tax, otherwise known as the Fair Tax. It would abolish the Internal Revenue Service and use this sales tax on new purchases to replace the present revenue collection system. From an economic viewpoint this makes sense because it would put money back into peoples’ wallets. It gives them the freedom to use all of their hard-earned money in whatever way they see fit.

Moreover, without a massive income tax, corporations will be at-

tracted to the U.S. like never before, and it goes without saying that our economy could use a boost.

Curnock supports the idea of energy independence, but more importantly he approaches achieving energy independence through a proven source — nuclear power.

He believes that we must first secure our borders if we are to ever create sensible immigration and assimilation policies, and argues that life is sacred (from the womb to the tomb).

Curnock wants to see Congress listen to men and women who are bravely serving this country; if Congress were to listen, our armed forces would be allowed to win the war on terror instead of just keeping the peace.

But what struck me the most about Curnock is his attendance. Congressional District 17 Rep. Chet Edwards was not in attendance. Now, I fully understand that Edwards is a busy man and has a lot to do in Washington, but I find it odd that state Rep. Jim

Dunham managed to be present and Edwards was nowhere to be found.

Surely, Edwards is not so busy that he cannot spare his constituents, when invited, one weekend. The festival had no more than 1,000 people and only lasted a few hours.

The fact that Curnock was at the festival says a lot. The fact that someone is willing to attend a festival at a town of 876 people speaks volumes.

It reveals that he is not a typical long-distance politician; he is the rare statesman — someone whose policies and character reflects a genuine care and concern for the well-being of all: white and black, rich and poor, conservative and liberal.

And for that, I applaud Curnock, and more importantly, will be giving him my vote when the elections roll back around.

Matthew Johnson is a sophomore economics major.

7/1/09 10:58 PM

news

page 6 thursday 7.2.2009

thebattalion

Worship

Where on campus?

Directory Catholic St. Mary’s Catholic Center 603 Church Avenue in Northgate (979) 846-5717 www.aggiecatholic.org Weekend Masses Sat: 12:30 p.m. (Korean), 5:30 p.m. (English), 7:00 p.m. (Spanish) Sun.: 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 7:00 p.m.

Daily Masses Mon. - Fri.: 5:30 p.m. in the Church

Confessions Mon. - Fri. 4:30 - 5:00 p.m.

Wed. 8:30-9:30 p.m., Sat. 4:00-5:15 p.m. or by appointment.

Christian First Christian Church

Armstrong prepares for Tour

900 South Ennis, Bryan

PARIS — For Lance Armstrong to win an eighth Tour de France, he will not only have to beat the best rider in the world — his teammate Alberto Contador — he will also need to master a course with a grueling last week that includes four mountain stages. The 37-year-old rider, back in competition after more than three years of retirement, told The Associated Press Tuesday that the race, starting Saturday in Monaco, is likely to favor pure climbers like Contador.

823-5451 Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

Morning Worship 10:45 a.m. www.firstchristianbcs.org

the

battalion Classified Advertising Easy Affordable Effective For information, call 845-0569

‘Bachelor’s’ Melissa engaged g g NEW YORK — When “The The Bachelor” winner Melissa Rycroft got jilted for the runner-up, she returned the engagement ring — andd walked off the set. That was so five oft has months ago. Now, Rycroft another sparkler and a new fiance, Ty Strickland, to go an, with it. Her spokeswoman, Susan Madore, says Strickland is a 28-yearold insurance agent andd has been dating Rycroftt on and off for 2½ years.

According to Madore, hee ay and proposed privately Friday the couple celebrated with both ner. sets of parents over dinner.

Robbers hit gas station, run out of gas KIRKWOOD, N.Y. — State police in New York say two Pennsylvania men robbed a gas station and might have gotten away if they had also fueled up. Troopers said they caught 29-yearold Lonnie Meckwood, of Carbondale, and 51-yearold Phillip Weeks, of Tunkhannock, after their getaway car ran out of gas while the were trying to escape late Monday night.

They’re accused of using a knife to rob a clerk at the Quickway Convenience Store in Kirkwood, near the New York-Pennsylvania border about 80 miles south of Syracuse. Police found the pair about a mile away.

Their car was on the side of the road.

Associated Press

Jeremy Northum — THE BATTALION

Think you know every nook and cranny of Texas A&M? Test your campus know-how by e-mailing The Battalion and telling us where you think this photo was taken. The first people to get the answers correct will have their names published in The Battalion. Send your response with your name, class and major to photo@thebatt.com.

Wednesday’s answer: Chemistry Building

Correct responses: Adam Hearon, senior biology major Auston Reinhart, senior agricultural economics major Andy Stein, senior chemical engineering major Marc Nunez, senior agribusiness major Jaideep Balekar, junior computer science major Dori Penry, senior biomedical science major Donna Shumaker, Senior Office Associate, Mays Business School Qingsheng Wang, graduate chemical engineering Katie Sivils, junior civil engineering major Nick Heil, senior geography major

4LTVYPLZ MHKL @LHYIVVRZ SHZ[ H 3PML[PTL Order your 2010 Aggieland yearbook (chronicling the 2009-2010 school year) by choosing the Yearbook fee option when you register for fall classes. For info, call 979.845.2613.

(NNPLSHUK Texas A&M University Yearbook

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7/1/09 9:00 PM