Sep 16 2009 The Battalion Print

Page 1

thebattalionasks

Q:

How do you feel about President Obama coming to campus next month?

thebattalion ● wednesday,

september 16, 2009

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Mission complete

Briana Humphrey junior management informations systems major

■ Twin City Mission relocates shelter with help from the City of Bryan

“I’m actually really excited. I’m not exactly really sure what exactly he’s speaking about. I just know I just want to go and listen and be a part of the whole experience.”

Christina Francisco The Battalion Good communication can go a long way in a relationship. This rang true in the relationship between the City of Bryan and Twin City Mission this summer. For 46 years, Twin City Mission has been servicing the Bryan community by providing shelter, counseling and basic care for the area’s homeless and abuse victims. “The Bridge,” which began as the central focus of the mission in 1963, provides meals, emergency shelter and hygiene essentials for the homeless in the Bryan area. Ten years ago, developers at the shelter saw the need for a more efficient space. “The building we were in was over 100 years old,” said Ron Crozier, director of community relations for Twin City. “We needed to build a facility equipping our needs.” Extensive plans were made to find a space in downtown Bryan, and on June 15, the new shelter opened its doors. Shortly after, the City of Bryan asked Twin City to relocate under the

Mike Mosley senior management information systems major

“I actually also think it’s really cool. Especially because we’re known as the conservative school, and he’s coming. And we’re also big on the whole community service thing.”

James Gay senior geology major

See Shelter on page 6

“I don’t like it. I don’t like that he’s going to come. I think he’s just bringing unwanted attention here.”

ASSOCIATED PRESS

President Barack Obama gives a thumbs up to a man who calls himself the “world’s tallest Obama supporter” on Saturday at Target Center in Minneapolis.

Obama on the way William Swoboda senior economics major

“I think it’ll be educational for all the students. Especially with the health care plan he’s trying to implement. I think it’ll just be good overall publicity for the university and the George Bush Library.”

President will come to Aggieland to speak about community service Forum Obama will speak at A&M’s George Bush Presidential library on Oct. 16 in a community service forum hosted by former president George H.W. Bush and the Points of Light Institute.

Patrick Hayslip The Battalion To the mixed emotions of students, President Barack Obama is coming to Texas A&M University on Oct. 16 to speak about community service at the George Bush Presidential Library as part of his “United We Service,” call, which is challenging Americans to be more productive members of their community. Obama is being hosted by former President George H.W. Bush and the

Points of Light institute. “I didn’t vote for him and I probably won’t go see him speak,” said Jeff Gage, a senior telecommunication and media studies major. “I have nothing against it though. We must be a pretty important University for him to come speak.” Though other students said they weren’t enthused he was coming to speak, they recognized the importance of the current president coming to

Video Hear students’ responses to President Obama coming to Aggieland.

thebatt.com Obama and Kanye Obama’s opinion of Kanye West sparks debate.

people | 4

See Obama on page 6

Haley Slinkard senior english major

Rare mating call attracts research

Michelle McCord junior business marketing major

“I’m excited. I’m very excited. I haven’t decided yet if I’m going to go. I would like to go if I find the time.” Laura Sanchez and Nick Badger — THE BATTALION

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NEW HAVEN, Conn. — Police and FBI agents staged a dramatic raid on the home of a Yale University animal research technician on Tuesday, seeking evidence that might tie him to the slaying of a graduate student whose body was found stuffed behind a wall in a campus research building. No charges were filed against 24-year-old Raymond Clark III in Middletown, but police took him into custody while searching for DNA and other physical evidence. Clark was handcuffed and escorted out of the apartment building in Middletown and into a silver car. New Haven Police Chief James Lewis described Clark as a person of interest, not a suspect, in the death of 24-yearold Annie Le, whose body was found Sunday. Investigators began staking out Clark’s home on Monday, a day after they discovered Le’s body hidden in the basement of a research building at Yale’s medical school. She vanished Sept. 8.

The Battalion

Bernanke says recession ‘very likely over’

Mexican free-tailed bats, like those under the Kyle Field bleachers, have been found to be one of the rare mammals that have structured communication — mating songs that follow syntax, much like language follows rules of grammar. Researchers at Texas A&M University and the University of Texas at Austin combined findings to publish a paper in the “PloS ONE,” an online journal of the Public Library of Science. “We’ve known for awhile that they sang, but we just published the first full paper on their songs — how they’re organized; they’re extremely structured. We always put a noun before a verb — it’s the same idea,” said Kirsten Bohn, A&M postdoctoral researcher, specializing in animal communication and behavior. “Most mammals don’t make really intricate and structured vocalizations; [Mexican free-tailed bats] sound like a song — there’s a rhythm to them.”

Federal Reserve chairman Ben Bernanke said in a speech at the Brookings Institution in Washington Tuesday that the recession is “very likely” over. Bernanke was cautiously optimistic saying that all the recession may be over, but it is going to be some months before unemployment rates drop significantly. Bernanke said that the economic forecasters predicted moderate economic growth for the remainder of this year and next. Bernanke defended the decisions of the central bank and other policymakers throughout the crisis. “Without these speedy and forceful actions, last October’s panic would likely have continued to intensify,” Bernanke said. Associated Press

Meagan O’Toole-Pitts “I think it should be interesting, considering that a lot of people threw eggs at his face during the election. But it’s a nice opportunity to see a sitting president.”

Technician in custody in Yale grad slaying

Courtesy Photo

Mexican free-tailed bats are being researched for their rare mating songs. Bats from Kyle Field and under the Ann Richards Congress Avenue Bridge in Austin were studied. “[Kyle Field] is so big that it has tremendous thermal properties,” said Texas A&M assistant biology professor Michael Smotherman, “so it stays pretty warm at night and cool during the day.” Researchers of the study had known since 2003 that Mexican free-tailed bats sang, but only recent-

ly were able to hear the syllables of the songs. “It’s very high frequency, so it wasn’t until we had technology to record high frequency were we able to record and listen to the songs,” Bohn said. “We looked at over 400 songs from 35 different bats.” The mating songs also vary from bat to bat, Bohn said. See Mating call on page 6

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THE BATTALION (ISSN #1055-4726) is published daily, Monday through Friday during the fall and spring semesters and Monday through Thursday during the summer session (except University holidays and exam periods) at Texas A&M University. Periodicals Postage Paid at College Station, TX 77840. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Battalion, Texas A&M University, 1111 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843-1111. 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.

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Patrick Clayton — THE BATTALION

Workers secure the latest addition to the Clayton W. Williams, Jr. Alumni Center Tuesday. The 12-foot replica of the Aggie Ring, weighing 6,500 pounds, will be unveiled Friday on Ring Day.

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NEW YORK — All the big names came out for New York Fashion Week: Marc. Vera. Snuggie. Yes, Snuggie — the blanket with sleeves — staged a runway show on Tuesday, complete with high-fashion models and a new “urban jungle” line of zebra and leopard prints. The much-parodiedd Snuggie infomercial, in which Snuggie-clad actors rs eat popcorn and read on the couch and stand to cheer at a football game, was intended to have “a little cheek,” said Linda Hotz otz of the Allstar Marketing Group, which makes the Snuggie. But the companyy had no idea it would become me

a pop culture touchstone. “People just took it to the next level and we decided to go with them,” she said. The show on Tuesday was a real gimmick, sure, but also a re effort to introduce new colors and styles that prints, included animal print age, a tie-dye, camouflage “luxury microplush microplush” and college logo logos. Also shown were we Snuggies for children and dogs. Associated Associa Press Pr

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soul

Ramadan ends Sunday The month of Ramadan in the Islamic year is a time of daily fasting from sunrise to sunset. The festival of Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, this year on Sunday.

thebattalion 9.16.2009 page3

Ministry fills a need... Lorelei Willett The Battalion For the past three years, Café Canterbury has provided free coffee and baked goods to students of A&M and Blinn, hoping to become a refuge for the stressed out college student. “I like it because it’s always so quiet, and they have good drinks, and everyone is real nice and welcoming,” said Brittney Bearden, a junior nutritional science major. The café was opened by the Rev. Sandi Mizirl of the Episcopal Student Center, who always had a dream to open a coffee shop that would serve as a ministry of hospitality. “Her dream was really to serve the whole campus and not just Episcopal students. This was a reasonable way to do that. Students need caffeine and sugar and a quiet and welcoming place to study. That’s what the café is,” said Hannah Price, manager of Café Canterbury and senior sociology major. Although operated and supported by the Episcopal Student Center, people of different faiths are encouraged and welcome to have a cup of coffee and study. The café provides a Spirituality Center where students can sit and research Christianity or other faiths. “The goal of the café is hospitality, environmental sustainability and respect. We are very adamant about welcoming people of all faiths, or who have no interest in faith at all. Its mission at heart is not evangelical at all; it is purely to welcome students and provide them with a comfortable place to study,” Price said. Named for the head of the Anglican communion, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Café Canterbury is funded by a grant from the diocese of Texas which allows for drinks and food to be served free of charge. The café accepts

for caffeine “

Her dream was really to serve the whole campus and not just Episcopal students. This was a reasonable way to do that. Students need caffeine and sugar and a quiet and welcoming place to study. That’s what the café is.” — Hannah Price manager of Café Canterbury senior sociology major

donations, that go to nonprofit organizations that are striving to end world poverty and hunger. “It’s cool that the donations can go to other things instead of all the bills and upkeep of the place,” said sophomore general studies major Frances Shelby, barista for the café. Café Canterbury is a “green café,” meaning it uses as little waste as possible. The coffee grounds are put into a compost pile and the to-go cups are made from corn and compostable material, as well as recycling facilities on hand. The café uses only fair trade, which means the farmers who grow the coffee are paid a livable wage and use agriculturally sustainable farming techniques. “The blend of coffee we use is called ‘Bishop’s Blend,’ which donates 10 percent of its proceeds back to a fund that works to end global poverty through community development,” Price said.

Jonny Green — THE BATTALION

A ministry of the Episcopal Student Center, Cafe Canterbury serves free coffee and baked goods to A&M and Blinn students. The café’s menu includes coffee, espressos, cappuccinos, lattes, frappuccinos, tea, Italian sodas, smoothies, milkshakes and baked treats provided by the women of the church. There are tables and chairs, as well as private study rooms, ideal for study groups, and entertainment every now and then. The café has an open mic night about once a semester, Shelby said. “The café is a place of openness. If you need a quiet place to study, talk, hang out, relax, energize, et cetera, then you should definitely stop by,” Price said.

Café Canterbury Café Canterbury is located at 902 George Bush Drive in College Station, and is open from 6 p.m. to midnight Sunday through Tuesday and 8 p.m. to midnight Wednesday. Check the Facebook page for a map and more information.

Texas A&M University celebrates

In honor of the 222nd anniversary of the signing of the United States Constitution on September 17, 1787, Texas A&M University is joining thousands of citizens, teachers, and students nationwide in celebrating Constitution Day. Join the celebration by participating in the activities planned for the Texas A&M campus and the Bryan-College Station community. The following is a list of activities planned for Constitution Day, Thursday, September 17: 4:00 p.m.—Texas A&M University’s Albritton Tower Carillon will play patriotic music as part of “Bells Across America.” 6:30 p.m., Room 601 Rudder Tower—“Constitution Day: Prosecuting Prisoners at Guantanamo Bay.” This MSC Wiley Lecture Series presents a discussion focusing on the Bill of Rights (Amendments 4-9) and the judicial interpretation, featuring Ronald J. Sievert, senior lecturer in the George Bush School of Government and Public Service, Texas A&M University, and Richard J. Stoll, professor of political science, Rice University. Panelists will discuss what rights are given to non-US citizens concerning their questioning, prosecution, and detention. Current Relevance: Release of torture memos, closing of Guantanamo Bay, and recent rulings giving habeas corpus rights to enemy combatants. KAMU-TV & KAMU-DT special Constitution Day programming: 12:00 p.m. A Conversation on the Constitution with Anthony M. Kennedy: The Importance of the Yick Wo Case. 12:30 p.m. The Constitution Project: Yick Wo and the Equal Protection Clause, a documentary on Yick Wo v. Hopkins (1886), in which the U.S. Supreme Court held that non-citizens had due process rights under the 14th Amendment.

Two convenient locations to serve you inside : Bryan Branch

7:00 p.m. A Conversation on the Constitution with Justices Stephen G. Breyer, Sandra Day O’Connor, and Anthony M. Kennedy: The Importance of the Japanese Internment Cases.

725 East Villa Maria (2 miles north of campus)

7:30 p.m. The Constitution Project: Korematsu and Civil Liberties, a documentary on the landmark Japanese internment case, Korematsu v. United States (1944), concerning the constitutionality of the presidential executive order 9066 during World War II.

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KAMU-TV channel 12.1 Live Streaming on http://kamu.tamu.edu “Watch Now” Suddenlink cable channel 4 and channel 700 TAMU campus cable channel 4

Throughout Constitution Week, exhibits on the United States Constitution will be located in the Sterling C. Evans Library, the West Campus Library, the Medical Sciences Library, and the Policy Sciences and Economics Library. For further information about any of these activities, call Nancy Sawtelle at 845-4016.

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President’s opinion of Kanye West sparks debate NEW YORK — President Barack Obama’s candid thoughts about Kanye West are provoking a debate over standards of journalism in the Twitter age. ABC News says it was wrong for its employees to tweet that Obama had called West a “jackass” for the rapper’s treatObama ment of country singer Taylor Swift. The network said some of its employees had overheard a conversation between the president and CNBC’s John Harwood and didn’t realize it was considered off the record. The network apologized to the White House and CNBC. Harwood had sat down with the president to tape an interview following his appearance on Wall Street on Monday. Although they are competitors, CNBC and ABC share a fiber optic line to save money, and this enabled some ABC employees to listen in on the interview as it was being taped for later use. Their attention was drawn to chatter about West, who was widely criticized for interrupting Swift as she accepted an award at Sunday’s MTV Video Music Awards to say that Beyonce deserved it. During what sounds like informal banter before the interview begins, Obama is asked

whether his daughters were annoyed by West’s hijacking of Swift’s acceptance statement, according to an audio copy that was posted on TMZ.com. “I thought that was really inappropriate,” Obama says. “What are you butting in (for)? ... The young lady seems like a perfectly nice person. She’s getting her award. What’s he doing up there?” A questioner chimes in, “Why would he do it?” “He’s a jackass,” Obama replies, which is met with laughter from several people. The president seems to quickly realize he may have gone too far, and jovially appeals to those assembled that the remark be kept private. “Come on guys,” he says. “Cut the president some slack. I’ve got a lot of other stuff on my plate.” E-mails shot around among ABC employees about Obama’s comments, said Jeffrey Schneider, ABC News spokesman. Before anything was reported on ABC’s air or Web site, at least three network employees took to Twitter to spread the news. One was Terry Moran, a former White House correspondent. He logged on to Twitter and typed: “Pres. Obama just called Kanye West a ‘jackass’ for his outburst at VMAs when Taylor Swift won. Now THAT’S presidential.” When ABC News authorities found out about it, they had the tweets deleted after

about an hour, Schneider said. Moran declined a request to comment. But the news was out. Harwood West said there was no explicit agreement with the president that those comments were off the record. But he said it is broadcast tradition that such pre-interview chatter is considered off the record until the formal interview begins. Harwood said he was aware that it was likely someone outside of CNBC was listening to his conversation with the president. “It’s one of those things that’s unfortunate,” he said. “But I think it’s an honest mistake.” There was no immediate response to requests for comment from White House spokesmen. Twitter, a technology that’s a natural tool for reporters who love to tell people what they know whenever they know it, has raced ahead in usage before many news organizations have developed policies to govern its use, said Richard Wald, a former ABC News executive and professor at Columbia University. “You need to reinforce the sense that you have to verify before you publish,” Wald said. Associated Press

9/15/09 10:09 PM

news

page 5

Israelis, Palestinians present peace plan Karin Laub Associated Press TEL AVIV, Israel — Jerusalem divided by a series of fences, trenches and walls. The West Bank and Gaza linked by a sunken highway. Palestinians and Israelis trading land that would require 100,000 Jewish settlers to move. These proposals are part of a 424-page blueprint for Mideast peace presented Tuesday — the most detailed description yet of what an Israeli-Palestinian peace deal could look like. The plan was released as a new U.S. diplomatic effort was under way to restart peace talks, ahead of meetings next week at the annual gathering of world leaders at the U.N. General Assembly in New York. Created by teams of Israeli and Palestinian experts and former negotiators, the blueprint is meant to show it’s still possible to establish a Palestinian state alongside Israel, despite many setbacks, said those involved in the drafting. “If you want to resolve the conflict, here is the recipe,” said Gadi Baltiansky, a leader of the Israeli team. The core of the plan is a Palestinian state in nearly 98 percent of the West Bank, all of the Gaza Strip and the Arabpopulated areas of Jerusalem. By going into the tiniest details, it highlights the staggering challenges and expense of implementing any peace deal. The blueprint was presented Tuesday by Yossi Beilin, a former Israeli peace negotiator, and by Baltiansky, who served as an aide to former prime minister Ehud Barak. The Palestinian participants kept a low profile. The most se-

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In this June 14 file photo, two Palestinian boys play with a kite overlooking the Dome of the Rock Mosque in Jerusalem’s Old City. nior, Yasser Abed Rabbo, now a high-ranking aide to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, declined comment and did not attend the plan’s unveiling in Tel Aviv. Israeli officials said the Palestinians planned their own presentation later, but it appeared the Palestinians also wanted to avoid giving the impression their government endorses the plan. Israeli government officials also declined comment. The blueprint highlights how complex and expensive peace will be. It had to resort to flow charts to describe a multilayered bureaucracy of thousands of international troops and monitors who would serve as referees. The partition of Jerusalem would require building border terminals inside the city and dividing a major thoroughfare between the two states. A sunken four-lane highway with bridges and tunnels would be built through Israel to link the West Bank and Gaza, administered by the Palestinians but under Israeli sovereignty.

Israeli motorists would have to carry tracking devices on designated transit routes through Palestine to make sure they didn’t go astray. The blueprint goes into detail on issues that were previously only dealt with in broad strokes. Both sides would have access to the walled Old City with its major religious shrines, but from separate gates. The border puts the Jewish Quarter and the Western Wall, the holiest site in Judaism, in Israel, while the Palestinians would get the adjacent Al Aqsa Mosque compound, Islam’s third-holiest shrine. The document does not have a detailed chapter on the fate of Palestinian refugees and their millions of descendants, one of the toughest issues facing peacemakers. The Palestinian team leader, Nidal Foqaha, said the issue was still too sensitive. The security annex was the most difficult to put together, Baltiansky said. He said the involvement of senior former Israeli military officials ensured the document addresses Israel’s security concerns.

Insurgents attack Baghdad’s Green Zone BAGHDAD — Insurgents fired four mortar shells at Baghdad’s heavily fortified Green Zone on Tuesday, killing two civilians, on the same day Vice President Joe Biden arrived in the Iraqi capital on an unannounced visit to help resolve political differences among Iraqis. The shells were fired after Biden arrived in Iraq on his third trip to the country this year. It was not clear where he was at the time. The faint pops of the mortars being fired were audible on the opposite side of the Tigris River from the Green Zone, and at least one of the shells was heard exploding on impact. One round that fell short hit residential apartments on the Tigris River, killing two people and wounding five others, including a 12-yearold, a police official said. He spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to comment to the press. As the White House’s point man on Iraq, Biden said he has been in regular contact with the country’s leaders. “The whole purpose is to see how we can be helpful, if we can, in helping them resolve the outstanding political issues they have to resolve internally, so that when the (security agreement) is fully implemented we leave a stable Iraq,” he told reporters after meeting with Gen. Ray Odi-

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erno, the top U.S. commander in Iraq, and U.S. Ambassador Christopher Hill. The U.S.-Iraqi security agreement calls for the withdrawal of American combat forces by the end of August, 2010 and of all U.S. troops by the end of 2011. The three-day trip gives Biden a chance to meet with the full range of Iraqi leaders. “I’m here to listen, and occasionally they have asked me to be an interlocutor on their behalf, and it’s been of some value so far,” he said. Biden said that Odierno was optimistic that the readiness of Iraqi forces would allow the U.S. military to withdraw all combat forces next year according to plan, and then proceed with pulling out the remaining 50,000 troops by the end of the following year. There are now about 130,000 U.S. troops in Iraq. The Iraqi government plans to hold a national referendum on the agreement in conjunction with elections in January. If approved, the referendum would require all U.S. forces to leave within one year — well ahead of the existing plan. Biden said of the referendum that Iraqi leaders have indicated “it is likely to happen.” But he added, “I’m not sure it’s settled yet.”

Or, you may make your portrait appointment with the photographer starting Tuesday, Oct. 6

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Obama Continued from page 1

speak,� said Cody Hammond, a junior petroleum engineering major. “I’m pretty excited about him coming here though. I hope he doesn’t talk about healthcare. I’ve heard enough of that from him.� The Young Conservatives of Texas made news nationally with a protest of voting for Obama on Oct. 30, 2008. The YCT had an anti-Obama carnival outside Rudder Plaza, with the focus being on a game where students could throw eggs at an image of Obama and a “Hello, my name is bad for America� nametag below

his picture. Other students said they can’t help but wonder if such an episode will happen again. “This campus doesn’t have a good reputation with race relations,� said Elizabeth Thorpe, a communication graduate student. “I’m afraid there’s going to be another YCT incident. It’s going to be a mess.� Thorpe said she thinks not enough people know about the projected arrival of Obama and advertised it in her own way by posting it on Facebook. “I posted it on Facebook yesterday and I got a lot of surprised reactions,� Thorpe said. “There hasn’t been a whole lot of press considering the importance of the event.�

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“Mammals often have one specific song and make that same call over and over,� Bohn said. “The bats don’t just make the same song over and over again — there’s a lot of variety within the same bat, one bat will make a lot of different songs.� Researchers were able to get a better understanding of the songs by comparing them to communication of birds, whales and primates. “There are even fewer [animals] that have hierarchical structure — that syllables are combined in specific ways to make phrases and the phrases are combined in specific ways to make song,� Bohn said. “Whale songs are pretty similar — they have specific units that are combined to make themes, and the themes are combined to make songs, but whales make the same calls over and over again.� Like birds, only male bats sing to attract females and deter other males. “The songs says something about the quality of the male, something in his genes,� Bohn said. “We don’t know what that is yet; I’m currently studying that and seeing what females like in the male songs.�

Shelter Continued from page 1

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“Revitalization of Bryan� project. The project is designed to transform the downtown Bryan area into what District 4 City Council Member Ann Horton calls a “metamorphosis of offices, restaurants and retail.� “For years the downtown area has been deteriorating,� Horton said. “We’re planning on making it come alive again.� The “revitalization� plan did not include redeveloping nonprofit organizations or shelters; thus, after years of developing, “The Bridge� had to relocate.

Hot seats Tickets are free and information on reserving them will be posted on www. pointsoight.org at a later date. Obama will be speaking from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Oct. 16 at George Bush Presidential Library and Museum.

The discovery is groundbreaking because it can be used to help people, Bohn said. “We’re using the bat as a model for speech production and to help develop new treatments for speech productions, like stuttering and Parkinson’s disease.� The bats may be a peculiar sight on game day, said The Zone manager Clint Netherland, but football fans shouldn’t worry. “On game days we have University Pest Control personnel on site to take care of any bats that could cause issues with fans enjoying the game,� Netherland said. The bats under Kyle Field are, for the most part, harmless, Bohn said. “The incident of rabies is pretty low. Let’s put it this way, we work with the bats everyday, all the time and we don’t get sick,� Bohn said. “They’re docile; they’re not vicious.� Campus is experiencing a high instance of Mexican free-tailed bats, Bohn said, but most will fly south in a couple weeks. “There are thousands of bats — they’re in Kyle Field, they’re in the parking garage, they’re everywhere. They came from up north; they’re migrating to Mexico,� Bohn said. “They don’t spend the winter here.� Alex Worsham contributed to this story.

“Twin City Missions enjoys a tremendous partnership with Bryan,� Crozier said. “Their goals could best be served by having us relocate, and in turn it was better for us.� Public hearings took place before the passing of the rezoning, and the people voiced support for the shelter. “We were concerned about how quickly Twin City Missions would deal with the relocating,� said Deputy City Manager Joey Dunn. “They stepped up and got great participation from around the community. They were great with timing.� “It was real easy for us to move forward, because we were focused on the big picture,� Crozier said.

Although there had been reports of conflict between the two sides, both parties stress that both work well together. “In the past there’s been accusation of miscommunication, this is not the case at all,� Dunn said. “Twin City Mission has been a great service to the city. We look at them as a positive force for the community.� On the other end, Crozier is quick to say the same. “This was never a case of Twin City Mission versus the city of Bryan,� Crozier said. “Their goals could best be served by having us relocate, and in turn it was better for us. So it was a win-win situation for all of us.�

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$30 for these classes: Acct 209 - Tue 9/22 8pm Bich 410 - Wed 9/16 8pm Phys 208 - Mon 9/14 10pm

1. Bring student ID 2. Bring A&M proof of enrollment in class 3. Sit through class and learn We pay you $50 (First 100 people, so come early; Chem 101 students cannot be paid twice) (Dates are tentative and could easily change, check our website and Batt ads (school paper))

Pg. 6-09.16.09.indd 1

9/15/09 11:25 PM

sports

Soccer hosts No. 2 Portland Friday, the Texas A&M soccer team will return home after a three-game road trip and host Portland, the No. 2 team in the country, at the Aggie Soccer Stadium.

thebattalion 9.16.2009 page7

GoldFish Stephen Fogg — THE BATTALION

Freshmen Chelsea Jones, Kim Castleberry and Lyndsey Gnatzig, part of the nine freshmen on the Texas A&M soccer team, are an integral part in getting the 13th-ranked Aggies to the Final Four.

Freshmen, adjusting to life in college, play an important role in No. 13 soccer team’s success David Harris The Battalion Freshman year. The simple mentioning of the term brings about a feeling of nostalgia to most anybody that has had the privilege of attending college. It’s the first time you’re truly away from home. The first time you have to fend for yourself, and the first time that you are an independent en-

Pg. 7-09.16.09.indd 1

tity. Plain and simple, it’s quite overwhelming to most. Now, try and imagine juggling all of those newfound responsibilities with playing a sport that encompasses most of your time. Add on the fact that you’re playing a role of utmost importance on a team with national championship aspirations. Such is the case for freshmen Kim

Castleberry, Chelsea Jones and Lyndsey Gnatzig. The three ladies are part of nine freshmen, who are attempting to help take the 13th ranked Texas A&M soccer team to a place that the program has never seen: the Final Four. “Your freshman year is a learning experience in everything,” said Head Coach G Guerrieri. “Whether it be socially, athletically and academically,

having an open mind is the most important thing. On the field, all three bring very special athletic qualities that are important to this team.” One would think the responsibilities would begin to add up for the three girls. That their first month of college would be one filled with stress, uncertainty and exhaustion. However, sitting down with the three, one sees

that the women are just like any other freshman on campus: wide-eyed, curious and eager. “I’m walking through campus and people are randomly coming up to me,” Castleberry said. “They’re just like ‘hey, Kim.’ And, I just say ‘hi,’ but in the back of my head, it’s like, ‘how See Freshmen on page 8

9/15/09 10:17 PM

sports

page 8

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FOR RENT

HELP WANTED

Absolutely 1 Fun Laugh-A-Lot Defensive Driving! Ticket dismissal/insurance discount. W&Th (6pm-9pm) or Sat (8am-2:30pm). Walk-ins welcome. At Denny’s (across from TAMU). $25 cash, restrictions apply. 979-694-8888. Group fundraiser opportunity selling Avon. Lori Thompson, Avon Independent Sales Representative, 979-255-5191.

3/2 House w/study-Wolf Pen Area! Close to shuttle, w/d conn, fenced w/ lawn care, www.twincityproperties.com 979-775-2291. 3/2 house, quiet neighborhood. Pets ok. Available now. 1057 Windmeadows, 979-255-2705.

Ag Football Concession Staff. Champion Concessions will be providing Dippin’ Dots at all home football games. We are looking for energetic students to work in a fun and fast-paced environment. Pay is $8.50 -$15/hr. Email louie@championconcessions.com

3/3 Duplexes, 1400sqft, fenced backyard, all appliances, new, excellent specials, 979-694-0320 office@luxormanagement.com

Athletic men for calendars, books, etc. $100-$200/hr, up to $1000/day. No experience. 512-684-8296, photoguy@io.com

3bdrm/2bath large duplex. Washer/Dryer &Refridgerator, walking distance to campus, fenced backyard. 209B Cooner. 979-224-2047.

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

Our food will delight you, our prices will please you, our service will impress you! La Riviera 3700 South Texas Bryan. Teal duck hunts. Have openings for September 12-27. $135/gun. Includes full breakfast. Min. 3 guns, max. 6. 936-825-2119. www.moodyranch.com Yum Yums Texas Style- All you can eat buffet for $7.99. Over 40 menu items to choose from. Less than 10 minutes form campus. College ID discount. 1710 Briarcrest Dr., Bryan 979-268-9867.

BED AND BREAKFAST www.thebirdsnestcottage.webs.co m check pics and prices only 15 minutes from town.

FARM/RANCH Horse boarding, large pens with shelter, lighted arena and more. 25-minutes from campus. Call 979-589-2334.

FOR RENT $375 pre-lease. 1/1, 2/1. Free Wi-Fi, On Northgate, on Shuttle. Short term leases ok. Call agent, Ardi. 979-422-5660. $599 Grand reopening special. 2-1 Totally remodeled four-plex. 5-minutes to campus. New stainless steel appliances with W/D included. 904 Navidad. 2-1.5 Townhouse style with yard, also available. 979-450-9093 or 979-450-9094. $900, Available Now, PRE-LEASE, 3, 4 bdrm. houses near TAMU, pets ok. Call Agent Ardi 979-422-5660. 1-3/bedroom apartments. Some with w/d, some near campus. $175-$600/mo. 979-696-2038.

3bdrm/3ba duplexes. Great floorplans, fenced yards, w/d, tile floors, alarm systems. icemakers, 979-776-6079, www.aggielandleasing.com 4 bedroom 2 bath, large yard, pets ok, 525 Moran. Ready Now! 979-255-2704. 4/3, 3/3 &3/2 Townhouses, Duplexes &Fourplexes, 1250-1700sqft. Very spacious, ethernet, large kitchen, extra storage, great amenities, on bus route, now pre-leasing for 2010, excellent specials. 694-0320, office@luxormanagement.com 4bd/2ba, 2-living, 2-dining, 2-car garage, security system. Available now. $1600/mo. Call 979-587-2550. Affordable country living, four minutes to campus, 2bd townhouses with fenced courtyards, were $795/mo now $595/mo, 979-777-3371. Ag Special! 1805 Briaroaks, got 5 to 6 roommates? this colonial mansion is perfect, behind Hilton, fantastic deal, covered parking, shuttle bus, only $375/person, call 979-777-3371. Available now. 4/2/2 newly remodeled, pet-friendly, new carpet &paint. $1275/mo. 1208 North Ridgefield. Biking distance to campus. aggielandrentals.com 979-776-8984. Beautiful duplex, 2/1, many nice extras, big backyard, spacious, convenient to everything. 1 week free. Call for special, 832-646-2329.

1bd/1ba downstairs apartment. For lease! Wolf Pen Creek $475/mo. includes utilities. $400 cash back incentive. 713-253-3399.

College Station 2bdrm/1ba. +study house w/laundry room! 504 Cooner, 5min. walk to campus, fenced, detatched storage building, pets ok, $800/mo. 979-450-3812.

1bed loft, located 401 Summer Court, on Bus Route 12. Student special: $400 off 1st month’s rent with 12 month lease. $100 deposit, $625 monthly. 214-682-5510.

College Station, 3bd/2.5bath, $999/mo +specials. Flexible lease terms, large fenced backyard, pets OK, W/D, free lawn care. www.topdogmanagement.info

2/1 Duplex, faux wood floors, w/d conn, lawn care provided. www.twincityproperties.com 979-775-2291.

Large 2bd/2ba. condo. All new on inside. Water paid. 1901 W.Holleman, $650/mo. 979-693-1448.

2/1 fourplex, newly remodeled close to campus on bus route for $650/mo. call 979-966-3913. 2/1 Fourplex, up and downstairs, w/d conn, fireplace, balcony, ext storage, lawn care provided. www.twincityproperties.com 979-775-2291. 2/1 Victorian Style 4 plex, All Wood Floors! w/d conn, www.twincityproperties.com 979-775-2291. 2/1.5 Duplex, fireplace, w/d conn, fenced with lawn care. www.twincityproperties.com 979-775-2291. 2b/1b fourplex. 2000 Longmire in College Station. $475/month. Call 979-822-1616. 2bd/1ba, W/D, water included, bus stop in front, very clean, 1mi from campus. 690-4181 or 219-2683. 2bdrm/3ba duplexes. Great floorplans, fenced yards, w/d, tile floors, icemakers, alarm systems. 979-776-6079, www.aggielandleasing.com 2bed/2ba sublease @Scandia apartments (401 Anderson): $600/mnth utils extra, furnished/unfurnished negotiable, some furniture free. 979-450-6076. 3 bedroom 2 bath, like brand New! $900/mo. pets OK. Available Now! 622-624 San Mario, 979-255-2704. Efficiencies and 2 bedrooms. 1mo. free rent. 979-693-1906.

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 bedroom apartment at Tower Park apartments. Available mid December. 917-435-9339. Spring sublease. 2bd/1.5ba duplex. Wolf Pen area. Pets ok. W/D connections. $650/mo. 954-636-9946. The Woodlands Complex 2Bdrm 1st-Floor flat. $625/mo per bedroom. Utilities paid. 832-731-2627. Too Many Roommates, Too Little Space? Huge 2bdrm/1.5ba Apartment in Bryan. Only 4-mi. to Campus. Newly Remodeled, $625/mo. 979-402-0913.

FOR SALE 16’ Aluminum Boat with 40HP Mercury, ideal for fishing or hunting, asking $2500/obo, 979-450-5666.

HELP WANTED $500 Website designer wanted to improve current site. Send short bio to aikinland@yahoo.com A&M Recycling Services Student Workers wanted (TAMU/Blinn student). Must be able to work 24 hours/week and summers. Apply in person: 204 S. College Ave. 979-862-2069. Supplement your college income! Work your own business, “energy drinks” -better health -both physically and financially. If motivated contact Tammie at 979-690-6513.

www.AggieNetwork.com

Coaches needed! Club Volleyball. Salary plus expenses. Practices Wednesdays, Sundays, December-April. Two tournaments a month. Contact by 9/20. skittle@suddenlink.net www.eteamz.com/brazosvalleyjuniors COACHES WANTED! We need enthusiastic, positive, motivational volunteer coaches for Girls Volleyball. Call 764-6386. Established construction company with Corporate headquarters in Abilene, TX is looking to hire an Accounting Manager. The Accounting Manager will help support the Accounting and Finance Department by performing general accounting tasks such as P/R, A/P, A/R, G/L and fixed asset accounting. This individual will also supervise staff. Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting is required. Must be very proficient with Quarterly Payroll Reporting. Experience in multi-state reporting is a plus. Requires a working knowledge of MS Excel and MS Word. Working conditions are normal of an office environment. Work may require occasional weekend and/or evening work. Work requires willingness to work a flexible schedule. Please send resume to: Freire@rpcabilene.com Great college P/T job. 12-16 afternoon/evening hours a week. $8.50/hr, flexible schedule. Apply in person at Scarmado Foods 1289 N. Harvey Mitchell. 979-779-7209ext.125. Little Caesars Pizza now accepting applications for management positions. Apply at either Bryan or College Station location. Local business needs office assistant M-F. No weekends. Apply at 3320 S. College Avenue 979-779-7044. Models needed for lifedrawing, life-painting class. Model will disrobe, P/T, $10 per hour. Contact Tim tim@twvanya.com or 979-324-6037. Musicians needed for small baptist church Sunday services. Instruments needed are drums, strings, and brass. Contact Mary at mary@christsway.org or 979-776-5000. Notes & Note Takers wanted immediately. Freshmen & Sophomores in demand. We pay top dollar for notes & note takers. e-mail: tamunotes@gmail.com P/T afternoon/evening nanny needed for two girls ages 2 &8. Previous childcare experience preferred. Fax resumes &availability to 979-764-6702. P/T service station attendant and lube tech. Basic Automotive knowledge. Villa Maria Chevron, Villa Maria & E.29th. 979-776-1261. Part-time clerical for busy ob/gyn clinic. Monday thru Thursday 8-1. Apply at 1602 Rock Prairie Road Suite 430 (west building), C.S. Pulltab manager needed for large bingo hall. Full-time 2-10pm 6 days/week. Email resume to brazosbingo@verizon.net STUDENTPAYOUTS.COM Paid survey takers needed in College Station. 100% free to join. Click on surveys. The Corner Bar &Grill now hiring. All positions available. Apply in person.

HELP WANTED

wednesday 9.16.2009

thebattalion

Tutors wanted for all subjects currently taught at TAMU/ Blinn and Sam Houston State starting at $7.25/hour. Apply on-line @ www.99Tutors.com, 979-255-3655.

MOTORCYCLE 1998 Honda Shadow, ACE 750. $2900. 979-571-6612.

MUSIC Party Block Mobile DJ- Peter Block, professional 22yrs experience. Specializing in Weddings, TAMU functions, lights/smoke. Mobile to anywhere. Book early!! 979-693-6294. http://www.partyblockdj.com

PETS A+Teacup puppies: Maltese, Shorkies, Maltipoos, Yorkies &Poodles. $500 &up. 979-324-2866, linda_d_54@yahoo.com Adopt Pets: Dogs, Cats, Puppies, Kittens, Many purebreds. Brazos Animal Shelter, 979-775-5755, www.brazosanimalshelter.org Australian shepherds for sale. Puppies and adults. Call Vivian 979-777-1093.

Stephen Fogg — THE BATTALION

Freshmen Chelsea Jones, Kim Castleberry and Lyndsey Gnatzig enjoy country music, want to travel to places such as Australia and Greece, and are avid fans of any meal that involves cheese.

REAL ESTATE Beautiful house for sale. 3 or 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, workshop, automatic garage. Quiet, near A&M, many extras. 832-646-2329. Buy &Sell B/CS homes, condos, duplexes. RE/MAX. Nadia Michael 979-693-1851. 979-739-2035. www.bcsrealty.com For Sale 3bed/2bath house, built in 2003, new paint, new carpet, refrigerator, washer, dryer, sprinkler system, huge deck, garage, no backyard neighbors. Available for immediate move in. $126,000. Call Cari Bullington at (979)255-1322 or cbullington@hotmail.com Nice townhomes for sale, 2/1. Two stories, Many amenities. 832-646-2329.

ROOMMATES 1-f needed Oct-Dec in spacious 4/2. $350 plus 1/3 bills. (817)308-4664 1-Male roommate wanted. 3/2 house, bus route. $375/mo. +1/3 bills. 325-212-7410. 1-Room in 3bd/3ba house on Welsh. On bus route, in biking distance to campus. W/D, $450/mo. +1/3 utilities, 979-324-9190. Female seeking female roommate. New 2bdrm. condo with own bath, located University and South loop, next to bus stop. $450/mo. +1/2 utilities. Call 281-615-8070. Roommate needed. 4/4 University Place condo, W/D, private bath, pool, volleyball court, on shuttle. $300/mo., call 979-690-8213 or 979-422-9849.

SERVICES Attention all dove hunters! Day leases 15 minutes from College Station. 80 acres harvested corn field, 2 ponds, some trees. $25/hunt. Packages and group discounts available. Call today 979-324-4477. Conversational Czech language class. Call Trent 618-334-4584 or e-mail trentpearson@gmail.com Tutoring One-on-One or small groups in PHYS, MATH, freshman CHEM. Email sandra.iacob@gmail.com if interested.

TUTORS Need a Tutor? Friendly, helpful one-on-one private tutors for all subjects at TAMU/Blinn and Sam Houston State. Check us out at www.99tutors.com, 979-255-3655.

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Freshmen Continued from page 7

does he know me?’” Aside from the random “hello” and casual unknown dropin, the women are like any other freshman. Dance parties are held in dorm rooms. EasyMac, grilled cheese and cinnamon toast are consumed. George Strait, Taylor Swift and Kyle Park blare through the speakers. The DVD player shows “A Walk to Remember,” “Remember the Titans” and “Elf,” regardless of whether or not Christmas is in the air. Castleberry, a forward, is from Prosper, a suburb of Dallas. The country girl loves to go out to Boerne with her family, look at the stars and enjoy nature in its most natural state. However, behind her sensitive side, she is a ferocious attacker who, with 19 shots, leads the Aggies. Her speed up top adds an entirely new dimension to the team. “Kim’s extremely dangerous,” said junior midfielder Rachel Shipley. “She puts so much pressure on the defense, and it really gives us an advantage.” Compliments and gaudy statistics aside, Castleberry knows that, as a player, there is still a lot to learn. “I’ve struggled with the strength of some of the girls,” Castleberry said. “The Purdue match stands out in my mind. Right now, they’re a lot stronger than I am. Either way, I know that I need to go into games with more confidence because it definitely shows.” Jones, the young midfielder from Belton, may have a thing for sappy romantic films. She may look forward most to partaking in a grilled cheese sandwich with a side of watermelon. And, she’s gained an affection for the word “howdy.” But, when Jones gets out on the pitch, she plays with attitude. “You have to stay switched on,” Jones said of the team’s philosophy. “You have to always be focused.” Jones is right behind Castleberry in terms of the team lead in shots fired, with 13. She commands respect when she has the ball because of her vision of the field. And, her defense adds another element to her complete skill set. However, she too is aware that college is a little different than club and high school soccer. “It’s a faster pace of game, and it’s more intense,” Jones said. “There is always pressure because everybody wants to

win, given the winning tradition at A&M.” Gnatzig, originally from Humble, comes to College Station following in the footsteps of her older sister, senior midfielder Amber Gnatzig. However, the 18-year-old is looking to pave her own path during her time in Aggieland. “I’m here because of the atmosphere of the games,” said Gnatzig of her decision to attend A&M. “We have the best fans by far. It didn’t hurt that my big sister is here.” The kangaroo-loving defender dreams of visiting Aus-

“

I’m here because of the atmosphere of the games. We have the best fans by far.” — Lyndsey Gnatzig, freshman midfielder, on why she chose to play soccer at A&M

tralia, to play with kangaroos, she said. Unlike most, who eat EasyMac for economical purposes, Gnatzig says she wouldn’t mind eating the cheesy treat every single day. Besides eating habits, Gnatzig was an all-district player three years in a row in high school. She got to play in Brazil on an Olympic Development team. She was named “most athletic” along with “most beautiful” at Atascocita High. But here at A&M, she has realized nothing is given to you. “I’ve learned that you have to be accountable for yourself,” Gnatzig said. “They’re going to play the best players, so you have to put in the work to be the best.” The Aggies, at 3-3, are in the middle of a learning experience that has spanned throughout the early season. As the team tries to implement nine new faces, A&M has endured a couple close losses. But with two more games left before the beginning of conference play, the team hopes to be firing on all cylinders. As for Gnatzig, Castleberry and Jones, they will go through the experiences that come with freshman year. They’ll struggle with doing laundry for the first time, and they’ll contemplate whether or not making the bed is necessary. All the while, the students will be working toward helping A&M hoist their first national championship trophy come December.

STUDIES IN PROGRESS SWIMMER’S EAR/EAR INFECTION STUDY Volunteers ages 12 and older are needed to participate in a 3 week long clinical research study of an investigational ear drop for the treatment of SWIMMERS EAR (external ear infection). Eligible volunteers will receive at no cost: • Study related ear exams by the doctor • Study examinations or placebo (ear drops) • Compensation up to $200 for time and effort For more information please contact:

RED DRY SCALY PATCHES OF SKIN ATOPIC DERMATITIS STUDY (ECZEMA) Volunteers ages 18 - 64 needed to participate up to a 12 week long clinical research study with an investigational topical medication for atopic dermatitis (RED, DRY, SCALY PATCHES OF SKIN). Eligible volunteers will receive at no cost: • Study related medication • Physical Examination • Dermatological Assessments • Compensation up to $675.00 for time and travel For more information please contact:

J&S Studies, Inc. 979-774-5933 1710 Crescent Pointe Parkway, College Station, TX 77845

Pg. 8-09-16-09.indd 1

9/15/09 10:24 PM

news

page 9 wednesday 9.16.2009

thebattalion

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

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Natasha Sankovich — THE BATTALION

Sophomore biology major Matt Van Dine, junior English major Amanda James and freshman nutritional science major Tatiana Claros play Jenga Monday afternoon in the Rudder Exhibit Hall. Due to the ongoing MSC renovations, many students have begun spending free time in Rudder.

and used sales inspections and maintenance z Helmets, apparel and accessories z State

www.procyclebcs.com 979.822.MOTO (6686) 1104 S. Coulter Drive Bryan, TX hours: Tues-Fri 10-6, Sat 9-2

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Operation Rescue says it’s broke WICHITA, Kan. — Operation Rescue, one of the nation’s highest-profile groups in the antiabortion movement, has told its supporters it is facing a “major financial crisis� and is very close to shutting down unless emergency help arrives soon. The group’s president, Troy Newman, blamed the economic downturn for its money woes in a desperate plea e-mailed Monday night to donors. But the Wichita-based organization has also been under attack from both fringe anti-abortion militants and abortion rights supporters since the May 31 shooting death of Dr. George Tiller. “We’re now so broke (as the saying goes), we can’t even pay attention,� Newman wrote. Newman told The Associated Press in an interview after the mailing that the group has only four paid employees left, compared to nine a year ago. The group typically has an annual budget of $600,000, but donations this year have been down 30 to 40 percent. Newman, who earns $60,000 annually, said he hasn’t been paid in two months. “You put a need in front of people and say,

‘Here is where we are at,’� Newman said. “I have always seen people respond faithfully.� Scott Roeder, 51, of Kansas City, Mo., faces charges of murder and aggravated assault in the slaying of Tiller as the Wichita abortion provider ushered at a Sunday morning church service. Tiller’s killing has also been a public relations nightmare for the group — despite its public condemnation of the slaying — since the name and phone number of the group’s senior policy adviser was found in Roeder’s car when he was arrested. A television crew zoomed in on the scrawled note inside the car in images that made their way to the Internet. “You see, this summer has been brutal for Operation Rescue,� Newman wrote. “Not only did George Tiller’s death throw everybody in the pro-life movement for a loop (and especially us), but the economic crisis our nation is suffering has brought our financial support to nearly a halt.� Associated Press

Blockbuster may close 960 stores SAN FRANCISCO — Blockbuster Inc. may close as many as 960 stores by the end of next year, shedding more dead weight as the struggling video rental chain tries to reverse its losses and fend off rapidly growing rivals Netflix Inc. and Redbox. The cuts outlined in documents filed Tuesday would leave Blockbuster with about 20 percent fewer U.S. stores. Blockbuster hasn’t yet conclusively decided to close all the stores mentioned in the previously confidential documents, Chief Executive James Keyes said in an interview Tuesday. Keyes described the closures mentioned in previously confidential documents as something that Blockbuster is considering as it sets up more DVD-rental kiosks in the stores of other merchants. It’s a concept that has been popularized by Coinstar Inc.’s Redbox. By the middle of next year, Blockbuster hopes to have 10,000 kiosks scattered around the country. It had just 500 kiosks at the end of August. “We could have fewer physical stores and still have more rental points for our customers,� Keyes said. Blockbuster’s shift serves as another reminder of video stores’ waning appeal as consumers buy and rent movies through the mail, on the Internet and through cable connections and standalone kiosks. The shift has threatened to turn once-mighty Blockbuster into a dinosaur. The Dallasbased company has been trying to evolve by embracing kiosks and expanding into rentals de-

Pg. 9-09.16.09.indd 1

livered through the mail and the Internet. But it hasn’t been enough to justify keeping so many stores open, prompting management to consider cutting much deeper than it anticipated to save money and keep its lenders happy. About 18 percent of Blockbuster’s stores aren’t making money, according to the documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Blockbuster is thinking about closing between 810 and 960 of its U.S. stores before 2011, up from the 380 to 425 stores that normally would be closed during that time span, according to Tuesday’s filing. As of mid-August, it had closed 276 stores so far this year. Besides closing stores, Blockbuster indicated that it will convert at least 250 stores into smaller outlets. If Blockbuster hits the high end of the new target for store closures, it will represent 22 percent of its 4,356 stores in the United States. Netflix’s DVD-by-mail service, launched a decade ago, has hit Blockbuster particularly hard as more households have embraced the concept of picking out their rental choices online before the DVDs are delivered through the mail for a monthly subscription fee that usually runs from $9 to $17. Netflix now has 10.6 million subscribers and, unlike Blockbuster, is becoming more profitable. Netflix earned $55 million through the first half of 2009 while Blockbuster lost $15 million. Associated Press

PUBLIC NOTICE

tion to authorize the Veterans’ Land Board to issue general obligation bonds, subject to certain constitutional limits, for the purpose of sellSpecial Election November 3, 2009 ing land and providing home or land mortgage loans to veterans of the The proposed amendment would ap- state. PROPOSITION 1 pear on the ballot as follows: “The HJR 132 would amend the consti- constitutional amendment providing The proposed amendment would aptution to authorize the legislature for uniform standards and proce- pear on the ballot as follows: “The to allow a municipality or a county dures for the appraisal of property constitutional amendment authorizto issue bonds and notes to finance for ad valorem tax purposes.� ing the Veterans’ Land Board to issue the purchase of buffer areas or open general obligation bonds in amounts spaces adjacent to military instalequal to or less than amounts previPROPOSITION 4 lations. The buffer areas would be ously authorized.� used to prevent encroachment or to HJR 14 would amend the constituconstruct roadways utilities, or other tion to establish the national research PROPOSITION 7 infrastructure to protect or promote university fund to provide a source of funding that will enable emerging the mission of the military instalHJR 127 would amend the constitulation. The municipality or county research universities in this state to tion to allow an officer or enlisted may pledge increases in ad valorem develop into major research univer- member of the Texas State Guard or tax revenues for repayment of the sities. The amendment would re- other state militia or military force to quire the legislature to dedicate state hold other civil offices. bonds or notes. revenue to the fund and to transfer The proposed amendment would the balance of the existing higher ed- The proposed amendment would apappear on the ballot as follows: ucation fund to the national research pear on the ballot as follows: “The “The constitutional amendment au- university fund. This amendment constitutional amendment to allow thorizing the financing, including would further require the legislature an officer or enlisted member of the through tax increment financing, to establish the criteria by which a Texas State Guard or other state miof the acquisition by municipali- state university may become eligible litia or military force to hold other ties and counties of buffer areas or to receive and use distributions from civil offices.� open spaces adjacent to a military the fund. installation for the prevention of enPROPOSITION 8 croachment or for the construction The proposed amendment would apof roadways, utilities, or other infra- pear on the ballot as follows: “The HJR 7 would amend the constitution structure to protect or promote the constitutional amendment establish- to authorize the state to contribute mission of the military installation.� ing the national research university money, property, and other resources fund to enable emerging research for the establishment, maintenance, universities in this state to achieve and operation of veterans’ hospitals PROPOSITION 2 national prominence as major re- in this state. search universities and transferring HJR 36 would amend the constituthe balance of the higher education The proposed amendment would aption to authorize the legislature to fund to the national research univer- pear on the ballot as follows: “The provide for the taxation of a resisity fund.� constitutional amendment authorizdence homestead solely on the basis ing the state to contribute money, of the property’s value as a residence property, and other resources for the PROPOSITION 5 homestead, regardless of whether establishment, maintenance, and opthe property may have a higher value HJR 36 would amend the constitu- eration of veterans hospitals in this if it were used for other purposes. tion to authorize the legislature to state.� allow for a single appraisal review The proposed amendment would ap- board for two or more adjoining apPROPOSITION 9 pear on the ballot as follows: “The praisal entities that elect to provide constitutional amendment authoriz- for consolidated reviews of tax ap- HJR 102 would define what is a ing the legislature to provide for the praisals. state-owned public beach. The pubad valorem taxation of a residence lic, individually and collectively, homestead solely on the basis of The proposed amendment would ap- would have an unrestricted right the property’s value as a residence pear on the ballot as follows: “The to use and a right of ingress to and homestead.� constitutional amendment autho- egress from a public beach. The rizing the legislature to authorize a amendment would authorize the legsingle board of equalization for two islature to enact laws to protect these PROPOSITION 3 or more adjoining appraisal entities rights. HJR 36 would amend the constitu- that elect to provide for consolidated tion to require the legislature to pro- equalizations.� The proposed amendment would apvide for the administration and enpear on the ballot as follows: “The forcement of uniform standards and constitutional amendment to protect PROPOSITION 6 procedures for appraisal of property the right of the public, individually HJR 116 would amend the constitu- and collectively, to access and use for ad valorem tax purposes.

Brief Explanatory Statements of Proposed

Constitutional Amendments

the public beaches bordering the seaward shore of the Gulf of Mexico.�

PROPOSITION 10 HJR 85 would amend the constitution to authorize the legislature to provide that members of the governing board of an emergency services district may serve terms not to exceed four years. The proposed amendment would appear on the ballot as follows: “The constitutional amendment to provide that elected members of the governing boards of emergency services districts may serve terms not to exceed four years.�

PROPOSITION 11 HJR 14 would amend the constitution to provide that the taking of private property for public use (“eminent domain�) is authorized only if it is for the ownership, use, and enjoyment of the property by the State, its political subdivisions, the public at large, or by entities granted the power of eminent domain, or for the removal of urban blight. The amendment would prohibit the taking of private property for transfer to a private entity for the purpose of economic development or to increase tax revenues. The amendment would also limit the legislature’s authority to grant the power of eminent domain in the future unless it is approved by a two-thirds vote of all the members elected to each house. The proposed amendment would appear on the ballot as follows: “The constitutional amendment to prohibit the taking, damaging, or destroying of private property for public use unless the action is for the ownership, use, and enjoyment of the property by the State, a political subdivision of the State, the public at large, or entities granted the power of eminent domain under law or for the elimination of urban blight on a particular parcel of property, but not for certain economic development or enhancement of tax revenue purposes, and to limit the legislature ’s authority to grant the power of eminent domain to an entity.� Published by Secretary of State Hope Andrade, www.sos.state.tx.us, 1-800-252-VOTE (8683).

9/15/09 10:30 PM

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Freshman families to visit â– New Student Programs invites families to catch the Aggie Spirit

to parents. “As a parent of a college student myself, I know how important it is to see the quality of education and experience‌ the atmosphere and excellence of their learning environment,â€? Rachel Latham Vaugahan said. Special to The Battalion Latervillagefoods that evening there www. .comwill be a New Family Member DesWe make it easy Families of freshman willto... have a chance to get acquainted with sert Social held at the George their student’s school and catch Bush Library Rotunda. Vice the Aggie Spirit at a New Fam- President for Student Affairs ily Member Fall Program Sept. Dave Parrott, Aggie Mom’s Club, faculty members and stu25 and 26. “You will find other institu- dent representatives from the tions across the nation have pro- Memorial Student Center, Pargrams in the fall geared toward ent’s Weekend and other orgafreshman parents,â€? said Tara nizations from campus will be in Boyle, program coordinator for attendance. “There will be faculty and New Student Programs. “We student leaders at the dessert sowant to create an environment to welcome parents of freshmen cial to mingle with family memwww.villagefoods.com back to our campus to experi- bers and encourage parents to We make it easy to eat... encourage their students to get ence the campus culture and see involved and become the stusome of what their child is experiencing now that they have had dent leaders,â€? said Megan Higa chance to get adjusted to life ginbotham, of the Office of New Student Programs. in college.â€? On Sept. 26, the Office of The weekend includes open lectures with professors Sept. New Student Programs will be 25. Kathryn Vaugahan is one hosting a Texas Barbecue tailgate of the professors who agreed to from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. on the open the Biology 112 lecture Cain Hall lawn before the 6 p.m.

Tickets Tickets for the tailgate are $10 and can be purchased online at http://boxofďŹ ce.tamu.edu, the MSC Box OfďŹ ce located on the ďŹ rst oor lobby of Rudder Tower or by phone (979) 845-1234. The New Family Member Weekend coincides with the Student Sports Pass Appreciation Day. This enables student who have an All Sports Pass or a Football only pass to purchase up to four extra tickets for only $25 apiece. The extra tickets will not be in the student section of Kyle Field. This will allow family members to come to the game at half the normal cost. football game against the University of Alabama-Birmingham. “We are encouraging parents to come back for Parent’s Weekend in the spring, but really wanted to offer an opportunity for parents to be here at A&M at a time not as hectic as New Student Conference,â€? Boyle said.

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CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A man accused of raping his adopted teenage sister has turned himself in and is a person of interest in her shooting death at a school bus stop, police said Tuesday. Authorities said they were looking into whether Royce Mitchell, 36, was the father of 15-year-old Tiffany Wright’s baby, who was delivered at a hospital after the shooting. Tiffany was shot once in the head Monday morning in an attack police said had stemmed from a domestic dispute, but they have not elaborated. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police spokesman Bob Fey said Mitchell turned himself in Monday on an outstanding warrant charging him with statutory rape and taking indecent liberties with Wright, a minor. Police said they were investigating the rape allegation before Tiffany’s death, but did not bring charges until after her death. Mitchell, a street maintenance worker for the

city, was being held in the Mecklenburg County Jail without bond and will likely get an attorney after an initial court hearing. Tiffany, who was eight months pregnant, was a junior at Hawthorne High School and was killed as she waited at a stop in north Charlotte. Her baby was in critical condition Monday, but a hospital spokeswoman refused to give an update a day later. Tiffany’s biological grandmother said she was in the process of trying to adopt her granddaughter. “You can’t imagine the pain my family is going through,� said Shirley Boston of Cheektowaga, N.Y., a Buffalo suburb. “Tiffany wanted to leave so badly. She wanted to live with me. She went through so much in her life. And then this? It’s so wrong. How could someone do this to her?� Associated Press

Texas teen stabs mother GRAPEVINE, Texas — Police say a 15-year-old Texas boy stabbed his mother in the back with a 6-inch kitchen knife while pretending to hug her after an argument. Police arrested the teen Tuesday in Grapevine about three hours after his mother called police. Authorities say the woman was treated for a non-life-threatening wound. Police say the boy and his mom had an argument Monday. He allegedly pretended to apologize Tuesday, then stabbed her while they embraced. The mother ran to her bedroom, locked the door and called 911.

Blind woman drowns in ood QUITMAN, Texas — Authorities in eastern Texas say a legally blind woman died after being swept away by ood waters while walking to a relative’s home. Forty-four-yearold Mary Frame attempted to cross a bridge over ooded waters Monday in northeastern Wood County, about 80 miles east of Dallas. Nearby county workers attempted to rescue her. They say she grabbed a rope that was thrown, but couldn’t hold on. Associated Press

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EDITOR’SNOTE

MAILCALL

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.

From Joel Chipley, senior industrial distribution major Why is there someone in every section of the student side who feels it is their duty to yell “uncover!” during every yell? Let’s just skip the fact that it’s not a tradition...and if it is, I must have missed that piece of information during my years here. I take my hat off to show respect, so that means walking in the MSC, and during the National Anthem, the “Spirit of Aggieland” and the “Fight Song.” Why do I need to show respect for yelling BTHO UNM? Not only that, but berating fellow Aggies is a bunch of two percent garbage. Speaking of two percenters, some of the very people I saw responsible for this behavior left the game early, a couple at halftime. How ironic. Why don’t you try instead to pay attention to the things that matter, like cheering on our team and showing real 12th Man spirit?

voices thebattalion 9.16.2009 page3

GUESTCOLUMN

From no hats to hard hats

Stephanie Burns

From Dawn Peterangelo, senior aerospace engineering major

With no MSC for 3 years, it’s crucial to pass down history, tradition and Aggie Spirit

Rick Perry has been known to make some interesting statements in the past that haven’t exactly gone over well. Recently, in an interview with Texas Monthly Magazine, he expressed his expectation that Bonfire would return, possibly as soon as next year. My response to hearing this was nearly the same as when he joked about secession: What? The 1999 Bonfire tragedy taught us some very important lessons, first and foremost being that safety cannot be overlooked for the sake of tradition. I have friends that do student bonfire, and many of them are as conflicted about bringing it back to campus as me. What I find the most interesting is that Perry, a former student and yell leader, has said this without consulting the University first. My opinion? Stick to governing for now, Perry. Wait for student and administrative input. Some are very pro-Bonfire, some are very anti-Bonfire, but what it really comes down to is safety and respect for the 12 that lost their lives. If this is some sort of bid to gain popularity for your upcoming campaign for reelection next year, it’s not working.

H

owdy Ags! As classes get underway and we head into the first round of tests, I want to take a moment to recap everyone on the progress made on the Memorial Student Center Renovation and Expansion Project over the summer. It was no secret the MSC was closing, but many of you were probably taken by surprise when you returned to campus to find it finally happened. On Aug. 17 we turned the building over to Vaughn Construction with a small ceremony to mark the occasion. This ceremony included the conversion of our MSC from a “memorial” to “construction and renovation status.” In doing so, we temporarily suspended the traditions of not walking on the grass and removing our hats so that the construction crews can work safely. While MSC traditions are important to us, we must also recognize that the MSC and surrounding grounds are now a construction site. Equipment will need to be stored on the grass and hard hats are required to enter the building. This does not mean that we should forget the sacrifices made by Aggies before us — in fact, it is our duty to keep the traditions and history of the MSC alive in the student body until we return to the building in 2012. When the MSC opens its doors again, it will be to a new generation of Aggies: Aggies who may have never experienced the MSC as we did. For those of us who remember the MSC as it was, it is our job to share our stories and to talk about its rich history. And for the Class of 2013, it is your job to learn why we removed our hats before entering the MSC and

Osazuwa Okundaye — THE BATTALION

did not walk on the grass. Take a minute to read the inscriptions on the seven Congressional Medal of Honor plaques, which now hang in Rudder Exhibit Hall. Stop to look at the detail in the wood carvings on the second floor of Rudder Theater, and ask someone why the Flag Room is so special. These are the traditions and memories that we must keep alive. These are the traditions that will return to the renovated MSC — reminders of the Aggie Spirit and the importance of selfless service. As for the construction itself, we are currently in the asbestos abatement phase. Asbestos was thought to be a great fireproofing material in the 1950s when the MSC was originally built, and even more was added for good measure during the first renovation in the 1970s. Before demolition can begin, all of the asbestos must be removed from the building – this is a long and labor-intensive process, so while it may seem like nothing is happening from the outside, you can be sure that people are hard at work inside the building. Bookmark our project Web site (www.ourmsc.tamu. edu) and use it as a resource for project updates and relocation information. When demolition begins and walls start coming down, you will also find pictures documenting our progress online. While living without the MSC is not going to be easy, I know that we will make the most of the temporary inconvenience. Aggies are resilient, and we are already seeing new patterns emerge as stu-

dents find creative locations for recruitment, dining and lounge space. If you haven’t had lunch in Duncan yet, I highly recommend trying it out — the cadets don’t bite and the food’s actually pretty good. Couches for napping and tables for studying have been moved to Rudder Exhibit Hall and the second floor of Rudder Theater, and recruitment is well underway near Koldus, Sbisa and Academic Plaza. Our MSC Open House welcomed more students than before and (despite the sauna-like conditions) was a big hit. Flexibility is the key for the next three years, but we do want to alleviate the inconvenience as much as possible. From dining carts to additional furniture, we are doing our best to provide alternatives for students who spent many hours each day in the MSC. At 3 and 6 p.m. on Sept. 30, we will be hosting an Open Forum in Rudder Theater for students to discuss many campus issues including construction, dining and transportation. This is a great opportunity to tell us what challenges you are facing and how we can help make living without the MSC easier for everyone. If you have specific concerns, feel free to send me an e-mail (president@msc.tamu.edu) or stop by our new home on the second floor of Koldus. Gig ‘em and good luck this semester! Stephanie Burns is a senior animal science major and MSC president.

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