thebattalion ● wednesday,
september 29, 2010
● serving
texas a&m since 1893
● first paper free – additional copies $1 ● © 2010 student media
Student opens fire at UT, kills self Campus locks down, no other injuries
EDITORIAL
Shooting raises alarm, disarm campuses
Ty Petty and Matt Woolbright The Battalion The sound of gunfire shattered the usual routine of morning classes at the University of Texas at Austin Tuesday when a shooter opened fire in a busy area on the south end of campus near the largest dormitory. At about 8:15 a.m., the shooter opened fire at an unknown target with an AK-47 by the Littlefield Fountain. The total number of shots fired remains unclear; however, no students, other than the shooter, or emergency personnel sustained injuries in the incident. Later in the day, the Travis County Medical Examiner’s office identified the shooter as Colton Tooley, 19, a sophomore math major. Texas sophomore Megan Hodges was in class nearby when the shooting started. Students were on lockdown and took cover during the danger. “After waiting for like an hour, a SWAT team came in and escorted us out,” Hodges said. “They were waiting by the door with cocked guns in hand and made us all raise our hands in the air while they searched the building. When I finally got outside, there were more police officers and tanks, and helicopters were everywhere. It was really scary, and it really shook me up.” After the initial shots, police chased Tooley on foot to the Perry-Castaneda Library. At 9:12 a.m. UT Police reported that Tooley had been found dead of an apparent self inflicted gunshot wound on the sixth floor of the library.
Reports out of Austin regardthemselves. However, this incident ing the shooting on the University alone is a prime example of the of Texas campus raise significant risks associated with permitting the alarm for campuses nationwide — purchase, possession and carrying especially in Texas. of rifles and shotguns with little to In Texas we are adamant about no restraint. gun rights and small governThe balance of rewards simply ment, but this comes at a cost. does not come close to outweighUT students would have paid this ing the risks. With a modern cataclysmic cost Tuesday morning military grade weapon, such as if they were the targets of a sopho- Tooley’s Kalashnikov, he could more math major armed with an have easily slain dozens in a matter AK-47 inside the campus library. of seconds. Colton Tooley, 19, fired a series A&M shouldn’t have to of shots outside the library, before supersede state law to protect its shooting inside and ultimately students. Texas needs to join A&M killing himself on the sixth floor. and make it outright illegal to have The most shocking part of firearms on any campus. There the matter is, accordshould be no question that The risk of ing to the National an armed civilian on a guns on Rifle Association’s college campus presents campus website, Tooley did a danger and significant outweigh not violate any state risk that needs to be benefits of laws until he disaddressed. vigilantism. charged his weapon. Violence should be That’s right, calmly prevented by the proper carrying a loaded assault rifle authorities, not armed, private on a crowded college campus does citizens who can actually perpetunot violate state law. A&M policy, ate the danger. It is far too easy however, prohibits weapons on for a real gunman to blend in and our campus. escape or continue their rampage Texas gun laws do not restrict and take advantage of vigilantes where any firearm can be carried who are prone to mistakes and can other than machine guns and make matters worse. handguns. Allowing rifles and shotIf we don’t do something, guns on high school and college shooters like Tooley toting ascampuses and other venues that sault rifles around campuses will continually house large crowds is go unchecked, and someday, simply too much of a risk. somewhere, the scale will tip again Yes, it is important to preserve – and it will be devastating. personal rights, and law-abiding No campus is invulnerable, citizens should be able to defend including ours.
See Shooting on page 2
EDITORIALBOARD The Battalion’s editorial opinion is determined by its Board of Opinion, with the editor in chief having final responsibility.
Editor in Chief Matt Woolbright editor@thebatt.com
Managing Editor Megan Ryan battcopy@thebatt.com
Opinion Editor Ian McPhail opinion@thebatt.com
Photos courtesy of The Daily Texan
After firing numerous shots on the UT campus Tuesday, Colton Tooley, 19, was chased by police to the PerryCastaneda Library where he fatally shot himself. Tooley was wearing a dark suit and a ski mask. The campus was closed and on lockdown after the shootings. UT Police reported Tooley dead at 9:12 a.m. on the sixth floor of the library. Police searched the campus for a possible second shooter, but after further investigation concluded it was only Tooley. No one else was hurt.
Cyclist crashes into car, dies at scene in Bryan
Dining Services open forum allows students to voice concerns
Tuesday morning at 7:41 am, the Bryan Police Department responded to an accident at the 400 Block on the North Harvey Mitchell Parkway just south of the Villa Maria intersection. A cyclist was riding against traffic and attempted to change lanes when a 1999 Nissan Maxima struck the cyclist. The cyclist was pronounced dead at the scene. Sergeant Steven Spillars of the Bryan Police Department was an officer that responded to the call. “[Accidents] are preventable, cyclists need to be aware because they have less of a profile, so reflective clothing and required markings at night can make a cyclist more visible,” Spillars said. “Cyclists need to be aware of the traffic laws because they must follow them as well.” Bicycles are meant to follow the same traffic laws as cars and, they are involved with same traffic accidents. Cyclists’ involvement in traffic accidents is fairly common in the Unit-
Ryan Seybold
Pg. 1-09.29.10.indd 1
ed States. In Witnesses 2009 51,000 bicyclists were Call the Bryan injured and of Police Department that 630 bi- at (979)209cyclists died 5300 with any in a colli- information. sion on U.S. roads. Bicyclists’ deaths account for two percent of the 2009 traffic fatalities according to the Bicycle Safety Helmet Institute. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission the number of recorded head injuries from Bicycle accidents in 2004 was set at 151,024. In the same year football and baseball injuries came out 51,953 and 63,234 respectively. Riding a bicycle is dangerous and measures to ensure safety should be taken. Observe all traffic signs and wear a helmet. The cyclist’s name has not yet been released to the public. Thomas Levitt, staff writer
The Battalion Student senate and the Residence Hall Association jointly held an open forum Tuesday, to discuss measures that have been approved by the University which will, starting in 2012, require all students living in residence halls to purchase $1,200 in dining dollars each semester. It will also remove meal plans entirely, which means students will purchase all their on-campus meals with dining dollars, or cash. “The purpose of this forum is to allow students to voice their opinions and concerns to the student senate and the RHA,” said Katherine Gnadinger, president of the Residence Hall Association. Scott Bowen, the speaker pro tempore of the student senate, and David Riddle, the director of Texas A&M dining services, were also in attendance. “The student opinion expressed here will give student senate a clearer idea of what stance we should take on this issue. If the dissent is strong enough, we can push for a repeal of this addition to campus residents’ fees,” Bowen said. A point of concern for many of the students in attendance was that the approval of this plan happened out of the public eye, and while not necessarily obscured, there
wasn’t much perceived effort to let students know what was being proposed, and those students who were aware of the proposed plan did not realize how imminent the decision was. “Between RHA and student senate, and other student organizations, I think we all knew this was out there, but at the same time, I don’t think anyone knew this was reaching the decision phase until the decision had already been made, and that’s when we [student senate] started meeting with the RHA,” Bowen said. Other students in attendance voices concerns regarding residents with food allergies who are unable to eat on campus. This grievance was addressed by Riddle, who confirmed that there will be a process in place by which students with special circumstances such as food allergies would be able to exempt themselves from the obligation to purchase dining dollars. Other students voiced concerns for campus residents with limited financial resources, and the effect that an obligatory purchase of dining dollars would have on them. “If you double the cost of living on campus, which is effectively what you’re doing, people are going to do See Dining on page 4
9/28/10 11:43 PM
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Studentfaculty research expo
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The Undergraduate Student-Faculty Research Expo will be from 4 to 6 p.m. Oct. 6 in the Interdisciplinary Life Sciences Building lobby.
2
Bush library opens red dress collection
Study Abroad informational
The George Bush Presidential Library and Museum will display “The Heart Truth Red Dress Collection and First Ladies Red Dress Collection� Oct. 1 in the museum’s Ansary Gallery.
A general study abroad informational will take place from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. today in Rudder Tower room 601.
3
Thursday sunny high: 87 low: 64 Friday sunny high: 87 low: 58 Saturday sunny high: 84 low: 56
Today sunny High: 86 | Low: 61 courtesy of NOAA
pagetwo
thebattalion 09.29.2010 For daily updates go to thebatt.com â—? Facebook â—? Twitter@thebattonline
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A professor and his students take advantage of the cool, sunny weather Tuesday afternoon, holding class outside the Chemistry building.
CLEVELAND — Former President Jimmy Carter, on a trip promoting his new book, developed an upset stomach on a ight to Cleveland on Tuesday and was staying at a hospital overnight at his doctor’s recommendation. Carter’s grandson, Georgia state Sen. Jason Carter, said his 85-year-old grandfather was doing ďŹ ne. “He’s deďŹ nitely resting comfortably and expected to continue his book tour this week,â€? Jason Carter said. “I haven’t talked to him, but nobody in the family is concerned.â€? The former president planned to stay the night at MetroHealth hospital in Cleveland, according to a statement from the Carter Center. Associated Press
Friends of India Network Presents
India Day 2010 Sept. 30 to Oct. 2 Cultural Program Flavors of India Dinner Academic Panel Discussions Music and Dance Performances Exhibition Cricket Match Bollywood Movie Yoga Session Check out: http://indiaday.tamu.edu Discounted $7 meal tickets available at the MSC Box OfďŹ ce
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Shooting Continued from page 1
The authorities were exploring the possibility of a second gunman after receiving conflicting reports of two shooters wearing suits and ski masks. However, after further investigation, indications are the shooter acted alone. Campus remained closed for hours while police searched every room and conducted the investigation. The University closed and canceled classes and activities for the remainder of the day. By early afternoon students were allowed to return to their dormitories. Students and police remained on alert. “The police did a fantastic job of handling the situation. I would not hesitate to describe UTPD’s actions as one of their finest hours,� said Texas freshman Elise Frame. A&M student reaction to the shooting was wide-ranging. “I think it’s awful, I think it’s heartbreaking and it’s really scary to think about that it happened so close. My thoughts and prayers go out to them,� said Tiana Cooper, a senior English major. Some students in Aggieland do not feel safe after the shooting. “There’s a lot of fear now that has foundation. It could happen anywhere. You never know,� said Nora Burnstad, a senior
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Colton Tooley, a student at the University of Texas at Austin, walked onto the campus with an AK-47 Tuesday. He fired his gun numerous times, but ultimately killed only himself. French major. Other students, such as Will Sims, a senior mechanical engineering major, were less affected by the events in Austin. “I’m concerned about it, but it doesn’t mean I need to be paranoid where it effects my daily life,� Sims said. “I’m going to keep doing what I’m doing.� Several students discussed viability and usefulness of A&M alert systems such as the Code Maroon. Students received text and e-mail alerts from the similar notification system at UT Tues-
day, effectively advising them of University Police and they are the danger on campus. prepared to give us assistance,� “I think how to react should said Charles Gilreath, execube a more integral part,� Coo- tive associate dean of Evans Liper said. “My heart jumps every brary. “We worked closely with time I see Code Maroon as an the University Police over the alert. Last time when we had a course of the last many .com months, www.villagefoods Code Maroon about the weathhad our staff go through trainWe make it easy to eat better er, I know for a fact that several ing in regard to situations as this professors just kept on going. so hopefully if it ever happened That’s not OK.� here our staff would know how Students can feel safe in main to give people guidance to give buildings, common areas and them as much safety as we can.� the library at A&M, a University Police are searching Tooley’s official said. residence in Austin to figure out “We are in close contact with a motive for Tuesday’s incident.
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Matt Woolbright, Editor in 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 ofďŹ ces 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 classiďŹ ed advertising, call 979-8450569. Advertising ofďŹ ces are in The Grove, Bldg. 8901, and ofďŹ ce 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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things you should know
5 before you go Hispanic Heritage Month event
1
2
Puerto Rican entertainer Rita Moreno, who has won an Oscar, Tony, Grammy and Emmy award, will perform at 7 p.m. tonight in Rudder Theatre.
Philippe Bianconi, silver medalist of the 7th Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, will perform at 7:30 p.m. tomorrow in the Annenberg Presidential Conference Center.
3
Piano concert
Flavors of India
As part of India Day 2010, students and other campus visitors can sample the rich and diverse flavors of India from 7 to 8 p.m. tomorrow in Sbisa Dining Hall.
Holistic Garden plant sale
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5
The A&M Holistic Garden will be selling plants for the fall-winterspring garden season from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 1 behind the Horticulture Forest Science Building on West Campus.
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Downtown Art Step
One of three annual Art Steps will occur at 5 p.m. Oct. 1 in Downtown Bryan. Various businesses will exhibit Brazos Valley artists and live music.
Off to see the wizard...
thebattalion 09.29.2010 page3
scene
The Theatre Company to perform classic musical
Matt Kriger, Jay Thompson, David Jones, Hannah Lee and Yorkshire terrier Chloe play the recognizable gang of characters in the Theatre Company’s production of The Wizard of Oz. Daniel Crump — THE BATTALION
Clay Harley The Battalion No, Dorothy, you’re not in Kansas anymore. The yellow brick road will be winding its way through Aggieland this October. The Theatre Company’s first production for its 2010-2011 season will be John Kane’s beloved musical, The Wizard of Oz. A cast of 74 Bryan-College Station residents — children, students, parents and everything in between — is currently rehearsing for 12 performances of this classic to begin shows Friday. The Theatre Company is a community theatre organization in Bryan, housed in a converted movie theater, which puts on about six Broadway musicals each year. This season offers classics like The Wizard of Oz, Annie and Follies, seasonal shows like White Christmas, and less well-known musicals such as A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum. The group is entirely made up of volunteer actors, set designers, stage managers, musicians,
choreographers and costume managers from the Brazos Valley. College Station native Randy Wilson serves as the artistic director. Wilson appeared in the Broadway production of Jesus Christ Superstar as Pontius Pilate; he also tackled the role of Jesus in the show’s tour. To date, he has been directing shows at the Theatre Company for more than a decade. “I directed it [The Wizard of Oz] about 11 years ago, so I knew what I was up against. It’s great fun to do it again,” Wilson said. The 74-member cast is one of the biggest in the theatre’s history, and includes members ranging in age from three to nearly 70. In fact, it contains is at least one instance of a family generational span: Andy Wagers, a Texas A&M doctorate student in the astronomy and physics department, was cast in the show alongside his wife, Kari, and their son Dillon. “It’s a little challenging, but it’s fun at the same time,” Wagers said of fitting rehearsal time into the family’s schedule.
Managing such a large group of actors has proved an interesting task for those involved. “There are kids as young as three in the show, and getting them to do anything is challenging. They’re doing well though. They’re working hard,” said Evan Nault, an A&M graduate student of epidemiology and choreographer for the show. This is his second production with the community theater. The iconic role of Dorothy Gale will be played by Hannah Lee, a high school junior and regular cast member at the Theatre Company. Tackling the role of the famous ginghamwearing girl marks Lee’s fifth appearance on the company’s stage. “It’s been fun having a lot of people because you make a lot of friends,” she said. “I like it.” One such new friend is Chloe, the Yorkshire terrier who will be playing the role of Dorothy’s beloved canine companion, Toto. The set design for this show is, as one would expect, very involved. However, this is a pro-
duction aspect which benefits from having such a large cast because all actors double as crew members. Actors spend time on the weekends helping construct the set pieces used in the show. “Each actor is required to put in six hours of work in building the set — it’s Performances been a total community are at 7 p.m. effort,” said Jim Roon Friday sales, vice president of and Saturday productions. Performnights and at ers are additionally re2 p.m. sponsible for changing Saturday sets during the show. and Sunday With affordable afternoons. prices, a strong sense of community and a seasonally appropriate scarecrow, the Theatre Company’s The Wizard of Oz offers whimsical, nostalgic entertainment. After all, rumor has it, the wizard’s pretty wonderful.
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news
page 4 wednesday 9.29.2010
thebattalion
‘Get off the sidelines,’ ESPN broadcaster says
Renovations on schedule for MSC Haley Lawson
The Battalion Many students are asking questions during the wait for the missed Memorial Student Center to reopen in 2012. Thousands of students at Texas A&M have not experienced the MSC and do not know what to expect. Some things are changing but others will be kept the same, such as the Flag Room and the dining area. The construction is on schedule, expected to open in summer 2012. “Summer of 2012 we want a big grand opening in the fall, probably around a football game,” said Collin Laden, 61st MSC president and senior Latin American commerce major. “We are actually getting to work with students and administrators and faculty to begin planning how we are going to work that. We are really trying to utilize student input and student program involvement and students that are really trying to welcome people in. We are bring back a lot of former students, Aggie moms, there’s so many players that are part of the project, the MSC is important to so many people.” The walls are being framed and electrical and plumbing are being installed. “Right now most of the interior on the first floor, we are framing walls, and roughing in mechanical, electrical and plumbing,” said Josh Glaze, construction project manager. Many things in the MSC will be the same and the feel of the old MSC will be there — it will just be updated. “Imagine the home that’s built in the 1970s and a home that’s brand new. It is going to feel [and] smell new. I think you’ll still have the feel of the MSC especially with all the new techniques but it’s going to feel updated,” Glaze said. When the project began, student input was important in construction decisions. “There was a top 10 list that was developed, and it was expressed during preconstruction that those forums. I think they really held true to those goals that the students gave for the MSC as far as what they wanted to see when it
Megan Ryan— THE BATTALION
was done,” said Brad Wendler, project manager. The Flag Room and Barnes and Noble will be renovated. “The flag room essentially stays unchanged as far as the way it looks, the floor gets redone, we will do finishes on the wall and everything and the ceiling but essentially when you walk into the flag room you will still see the flag room the way it was,” Glaze said. “The Barnes and Nobel goes back in the same place it was, here on the first floor and down in the basement.” The Tweflth Man area will be expanded. The other dining areas will be the same as before as well. One thing that will be added is light wells where sunlight will be directed from the roof to the basement to keep the MSC lighted and open. “One of the big things you’ll notice is it used to it felt very closed in, very dark and one of the things they have done is they’ve introduced a lot a outside light, you will have basically light wells that will take light in from the roof and take natural light all the way to the basement and that will run all the way from the east to the west thru the building,” Glaze said. “At the point that it’s complete you will be able to sit in the dining area on the first floor and look all the way outside the
The MSC renovations are on schedule for completion in 2012.
building open to Joe route and open the plaza and the zone.” The University will open spaces for business to propose ideas for and anyone will have to opportunity to sell products or services. “There’s some down on the lower level as well but basically right across from where student media used to be, on the north side of the building on the lower level there’s going to be a strip of area down there that’s going to be retail space that the university will put out an RFP for different companies or businesses to put out proposals to then come and be a tenant and sell their product or do business or service,” Glaze said. The courtyard will be a place students can hang out. “We are redoing the courtyard, trying to make it a space where students can come and hang out. It’ll open up right in to the cafeteria area and people can come out there and hang out during the day. But it’ll just be an open courtyard and a fountain and some green space, outdoor space for students,” Laden said. The part of the building that will be finished last is the west side where the ballroom will be. “The south side of the ballroom has glass and will have a balcony and
Ty Petty
ing to hear what Craig James had to talk about,” said Kyle Bridges, freshman telecommunications major. “I thought it was going to be more about sports; that’s why I came. It was interesting to hear what he thought about politics, and how he got where he is now. It was a good atmosphere.” During his remarks, James covered a wide range of topics. He discussed his years at SMU and in the NFL and how he started a car dealership while in college; he spoke about his time in the NFL. He joked that his, “favorite memory as a pro football player was the day we got our first check.” He explained his career as a successful businessman in real estate and broadcasting. However, James attempted to focus on politics. He railed against bailouts, subsidies and government entitlement programs, sharing his beliefs on capitalism, the free market and conservatism. However, James insists he does not have any political aspirations. He just has a passion for students. “It’s pretty awesome when you see that many people that have deadlines and tests to step out and come to something like this. I enjoyed it,” James said. The Craig James tour continues Oct. 18 at Southern Methodist University in Dallas.
Dining
portunity for some people to experience campus life.” Jagush said. At this point, since the decision has already been approved by the University, the only way to avoid the plan coming to fruition would be for the student senate and other student organizations to convey to University authorities that mandatory meal plans would not serve the students best interest, and that they should repeal their decision. Student senate will soon vote, based on student input, on what actions to take in this regard.
The Battalion It’s not every day students get to have a conversation with an all-pro running back and college football broadcaster. Craig James, half of the storied SMU “Pony Express” and now a college football commentator, kicked off his three-month speaking tour Monday in Rudder Theater. “I want to engage young Americans to be as educated as they can about issues and to speak up and be heard,” James said. “I feel this real void in our country of young Americans being heard.” James met students, parents and fans before the event at the entrance to Rudder Theater. He thanked people for coming out and ushered them into their seats. As the event began, James asked for the nearly 200 participants in attendance to move to the front so he could hold a discussion rather than a lecture. He began his remarks by teasing members of the A&M football team in attendance, especially quarterback Jerrod Johnson, about their mistakes against Florida International University. “I want young people to get off the sidelines and into the game,” James said. Students in attendance responded positively. “I thought it was really interest-
Continued from page 1
the logical thing and move off campus,” said Gabriel Jagush, a sophomore petroleum engineering major. “There are reasons why Walton and Hart are chosen. It’s because they are logical choices for people who want to live on campus, and for personal financial reasons need to live cheaply. If you raise the cost of living on campus by $1200, you’re taking away the op-
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Aggies CAN Vote on Campus!
Register to Vote On Campus or By Mail
DEADLINE: Oct. 4
Your Vote Counts More Than Ever
Visit AggiesforBillFlores.tamu.edu for details
Feature your organization in the 2011 Aggieland yearbook
how to geT a COnTRaCT: • stop by our office: The Grove Bldg. #8901 (next to the Albritton Bell Tower) • visit website: http://aggieland.tamu.edu
where to TURn in a COnTRaCT: • The Grove Bldg. #8901 (next to the bell tower), 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
have a question? call 979.845.2681
aggieland 2011 Official yearbook of Texas A&M University
Paid for by Bill Flores for Congress
Pg. 4-09.29.10.indd 1
9/28/10 11:55 PM
EDITOR’SNOTE The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the various authors and forum participants in this paper do not necessarily reflect those of Texas A&M University, The Battalion or its staff.
MAILCALL GUESTCOLUMNS Make your opinion known by submitting Mail Call or guest columns to The Battalion. Mail
call must be fewer than 200 words and include the author’s name, classification, major and phone number. Staff and faculty must include title. Guest columns must be fewer than 700 words. All submissions should focus on issues not personalities, become property of The Battalion and are subject to editing for style, clarity and space concerns. Anonymous letters
‘
will be read, but not printed. The Battalion will print only one letter per author per month. No mail call will appear in The Battalion’s print or online editions before it is verified. Direct all correspondence to: Editor in chief of The Battalion (979) 845-3315 | mailcall@thebatt.com
voices thebattalion 09.29.2010
page5
Higher education I
nnovation is the key to the future and although college is the next step in our education, A&M could borrow a few ideas from grade schools. When it comes to college life, originality is not needed near as much as “retrovation.” One of the greatest high school conventions colleges are in desperate need of is the locker. It might seem impractical to provide storage space to almost 50,000 students on a campus that spans more than 5,000 acres, but where else are we supposed to put our mirrors, magnets, pictures and stickers? All of my essential belongings are nomads searching for a place to call home. Even more important are the social repercussions that result from not having Even though a locker. Last semester high school is I had four classes in a over, college row, which meant I would benefit had to cram every one of my books into my from adopting backpack and haul it a few of its around all day. Besides best ideas. the instant back pain it caused, it also drastically hurt my cool rating. No one likes the guy who looks like he’s about to go on a hiking trip, or about to ring the bell tower at Notre Dame. The worst effect of not having a locker is that I can no longer ask a woman out by conveniently slipping her a “check yes or no” letter. Consequently, my dating life has nosedived since I started college. I might have to actually talk to girls now, but that’s one custom I don’t plan on breaking until after I’m married. Between studying and Facebook, students don’t always allow time for exercise. College needs to revive field day, the event when the entire school competes in day-long sporting activities. Some might argue that there are already plenty of intramural sports to play or kinesiology classes to take to stay active. How-
Osa Okundaye — THE BATTALION
ever, neither of those choices offers classic, Olympic style events such as tug o’ war, three-legged races or obstacle courses. Since field day is, after all, only one day, Caleb Wilson it’s important to have competitions you’re junior history major pumped about months in advance. With participation trophies and ribbons on the line,
MAILCALL From Blesson John, senior computer engineering major The athletic program needs to make some major changes to the football team, and these changes need to be fast. Sure, the record says we’re 3-0, but do any recruits care that we beat Stephen F. Austin State University or Louisania Tech? They probably care more that we barely could beat Florida International University. Looking at the other college teams in Texas, you have to start worrying about the Aggies. When I was growing up, there were two big Texas teams (t.u. and us) and then there was everybody else. Over this decade, many of these Texas teams have made strides, while we have gone nowhere. Last Friday, I was watching the Texas Christian UniversitySouthern Methodist University game and even though TCU won, SMU played a heck of a game, and is a respectable team on the rise, while we played our first three games for the sake of padding the record. Even if we get wins, the overall state of the program is in decline. We used to be among the top two teams in Texas and the top 25 nationally every year. Now some can argue (logically), that we barely make the top five teams in Texas. We’ve been “rebuilding” since before I got here, so that excuse has to go. Before you start scolding me for my lack of Aggie pride, let me say that I’ll always support the maroon and white no matter what, but if we don’t make major changes, we’re just going to continue to decline, and the athletic department will have to get some more store-bought wins to appease fans.
Pg. 5-09.29.10.indd 1
everyone would be training year around. It’s difficult to motivate yourself to work out, but given a reason, preparation for the big day could even help cure the Freshman 15. Moving on to the classroom, if A&M really wants to make academic improvements we need to bring back Book It, or a similar program that awards students free personal pan pizzas for meeting reading goals set by their teachers. Of course, we could modify it to include all types of assignments. Who wouldn’t do their homework when free food is knock-
ing at the door? It must be noted that the Book It program should be utilized in moderation to not negate anyone’s intense training for field day. I know I am suffering in my studies due to a lack of personal pan pizza incentive. The amount of grade school norms that should be extended to college is an exhaustive list that I cannot give proper due. Nevertheless, implementing the practices of our past promises improvement for college today. When it comes to higher education, sometimes the best innovations have already been experienced.
A major development S Engineering majors are often associated with being socially crippled, but many are just as personable and gregariCaroline ous as the next person. Many Ward Whether your major is engineerpeople think senior ing or English, each of these majors communication kinesiology major has a certain persona associated with majors spend it. When meeting new people we four years caoften feel the need to put our new noeing, bowlfriend into a category. It is natural ing, playing ultimate frisbee, doing to stereotype people, but premayoga, learning self-defense and turely judging a person’s character ballroom dancing, when in reality based on their major is misleading they are required to take biology, and patronizing. chemistry, anatomy and physiology. Unless we have tried every Education majors may have major at Texas A&M, we cannot it worst of all; the actual work judge which are easy and which are required for their classes might not hard, which demand more studying be as difficult as differential equaor which require more intelligence. tions or organic chemistry, but it Majors are chosen based on the is extremely time consuming and career plans, based on interests much preparation goes into and passions that reflect their many projects. Not how your mind works everyone is made to and life experiences. educate 25 ankle All career paths An English biters who have are created equal. major whose the attention mind works well span of goldfish. Don’t judge a with poetry, But it’s not major until you’ve novels, short just other peocompleted all the stories and ple, I don’t like required courses books more than to hear others likely would not claim their majors yourself. survive engineering are easy. This may classes. An engineernot be a reflection ing major whose mind is of the difficulty of their made for science and math may classes; in reality school might flounder in communication classes not be much of a priority for them with a ton of theories and generior the field of study might come cally worded, slightly differentiated naturally to them. This undermines definitions. those in the same major who work
tudents ask a few basic questions upon meeting new people in college: Where are you from? What year are you? And what is your major?
hard to keep their own grades up. College students shouldn’t tear others down, whether in their own field of study or another. We all should be respectful and encourage one another regarding the path that each has chosen. I am a communication major, with minors in journalism and English. I love the field of study that I have chosen, and was proud of being accepted into the Department of Communication as a freshman, knowing that many others had not been accepted into Texas A&M. My classes have been both interesting and challenging. Can you imagine my shock when a “friend” told me that I had chosen a “cake” major? At first I was concerned about what others thought, but I realized that it did not matter because I was working toward my future in a field I am passionate about. “A lot of the things we talk about [in communication classes] are kind of slippery in the sense that you understand them and you can apply them to your real life when you’re sitting in class, but then when it comes to applying those to a test it can be difficult,” said Emily Doucet, academic adviser in the department of communication. “The material can be interesting and applicable, but it’s deceptively simple because it’s abstract and theoretical.” Diversity makes the world go ‘round. If each person had the same skill set, passions, interests and career aspirations, our planet would be a disaster. If everyone’s mind worked the same way, the world would not only be incredibly monotonous, but tremendously dysfunctional.
9/28/10 10:45 PM
classifieds see ads at thebatt.com
thebattalion 9.29.2010 page6 AN AD Phone 845-0569 or Fax 845-2678 The Grove, Bldg. #8901 Texas A&M University
ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR A GOOD TIME . . . CLICK HERE www.lonestarcalendar.com Loaning Senior Boots! Looking for a class of ‘11/’12 corp member needing senior boots for a year. Size 10-11, sm-med calf. Bill Hill ‘63, 254-519-3904
AUTO I buy vehicles, running or not running. 979-778-1121.
COMPUTERS Superior Teks. $50 for almost any computer repair. Call 979-703-7963 or visit www.superiorteks.net
FOR RENT
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FOR RENT 3bd/1ba/1cg easy walk/bike to Blocker 4321 Maywood Bryan, $865/mo. 2bd/1ba available now, in shadow of Kyle Field. $750/mo. 979-229-5334. 3bd/3ba duplexes. Great floorplans, fenced yards, W/D, tile floors, icemakers, alarm systems. 979-776-6079. www.aggielandleasing.com 4/3, 3/3 &3/2 Houses, Townhouses, Duplexes &Fourplexes, 1250-1700sqft. Very spacious, ethernet, large kitchen, extra storage, W/D, great amenities, on bus route, now pre-leasing, excellent specials. 694-0320. office@luxormanagement.com
$295 Pre-lease. 1-room in shared, furnished apartment. All bills paid. Short term leases ok. Call agent Ardi 979-422-5660.
4bd/2ba house. Close to campus, wood floors, tile floors, ceiling fans, W/D, fenced yards. 979-776-6079. www.aggielandleasing.com
$375 Pre-lease. 1/1, 2/1. Free Wi-Fi, on Northgate, on shuttle. Short term leases ok. Call agent Ardi 979-422-5660.
4bd/3ba townhouse, 2 car garage, spacious, pool, landscape backyard, $1350/mo. 4310 Spring Hill. 979-777-9933.
1-acre, close to campus, 4bd/2ba +study, 2000sq./ft., nice double wide, fenced yard, large covered deck, W/D included, $1100/mo. Owner/Realtor 979-219-0405. 2/1 duplex. W/D, bathroom and kitchen newly remodeled. Large backyard, lawncare provided. Pets ok. $600/mo. 979-229-9890. 2/2 sublease. Granite, cable, internet. Available 8/25. $1095/mo. Broker/owner 979-777-5477. 2bd/1ba, W/D, water paid. 7/10 mile from campus on bus route. $590-$600. 979-690-4181 or 979-219-2683. 2bd/2ba 4-plex. Spacious floorplan, W/D connections, close to campus. $550/mo. www.aggielandleasing.com 979-776-6079. 2bdrm/2ba condo sublease available in January. $600/mo. On shuttle. (409)-673-3137. 3/2 duplex, CS, 1 mile from campus, near new dog park, first month free, free W/D with 2 year lease, $850/mo, 777-8558. 3/2 fourplexes, close to campus, on bus route, W/D, newly renovated, very nice, must see. southwoodplace.com 979-822-3520. 3/2 Houses, Townhouses &Apartments, 1250sqft. Very spacious, ethernet, large kitchen, walk-in pantry &closets, extra storage, W/D, great amenities, on bus route, now pre-leasing, excellent specials. 979-694-0320, office@luxormanagement.com 3/2/2, fenced yard, appliances, pets OK with refundable deposit. $1050/mo. 1001 San-Benito. 979-690-0786.
Condos. BRYAN: 2804 Village, 2/1.5, $875. 1425 W. Villa Maria #401, 3/3.5, $1400. COLLEGE STATION: 1501 Stallings #52, 2/2.5, $825. 1501 Stallings #59, 2/2.5, $875. 904 Univ. Oaks #116, 1/1, $650. Four-plexes. BRYAN: 1906 Barak #11, #12, 2/1, $600. COLLEGE STATION: 1505 B Oakdale, 2/1, $575. 2400 D Blanco, 2/1, $675. Houses. BRYAN: 1009 E. 29th, 2/1, $900. COLLEGE STATION: 209 Richards B, 3/1.5, $1100. 4003 Southern Trace, 4/3, $1475. 4130 McFarland, 4/4.5, $1400. 4107 McLister, 4/4, $1400. 3407 Wildrye, 3/2, $1000. Efficiencies. BRYAN: Efficiencies-309 Mobile #4, $515. Lofts-309 Mobile #6, $695. BRYAN: 3612 A Western, 2/2, $650. COLLEGE STATION: 938 Willow Pond, 3/2, $900. 3754, 3776 Oldenburg, 3/3, $1000. Alpha-Omega Properties, Inc. Broker 979-774-7820. House for rent. 3/1.5/1, 0.75 acres, rural, fenced. $875/mo., $875 deposit. 979-696-1670. Just reduced, $500/mo. renovated 2/1 CS duplex, near campus, on shuttle, new refrigerator, dishwasher, and central air and heat, W/D connections, no pets, no smoking, 713-729-2893 or 832-651-1258. Large 2bd/2ba duplex. Safe neighborhood. 1010 Sun Meadow. Pets ok. $750/mo. 979-703-5906.
SPECIAL
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PRIVATE PARTY WANT ADS
$10 for 20 words running 5 days, if your merchandise is priced $1,000 or less (price must appear in ad). This rate applies only to non-commercial advertisers offering personal possessions for sale. Guaranteed results or you get an additional 5 days at no charge. If item doesn’t sell, advertiser must call before 1 p.m. on the day the ad is scheduled to end to qualify for the 5 additional insertions at no charge. No refunds will be made if your ad is cancelled early.
FOR SALE
HELP WANTED
‘05 Mustang, 5 Speed, Leather, Alloy wheels, 62,000mi., $11,900, 823-8200. Toy miniature pinscher, 9 months, red, loving, protective, and energetic. First shots, healthy with no problems. Papers, $400. 979-703-4580.
HELP WANTED Artist needs student figure models. Male and female. $30/hr. 214-934-5851. Athletic men for calendars, books, etc. $100-$200/hr, up to $1000/day. No experience. 512-684-8296. photoguy@io.com Attention Students! *PT work- flexible schedules* $15 base/appt Flexible schedules, customer sales/svc. No experience necessary. Conditions apply- Call now! 979-260-4555. Cleaning commercial buildings at night, M-F. Call 979-823-5031 for appointment. FT/PT openings, customer sales/svc, no experience necessary, conditions apply, all ages 17+, 979-260-4555. Local businessman seeks aggressive self starting male students for late afternoons and Saturday. Flexible hours. Top pay! Call 696-0203. 8-10am only. Need a part time job with flexible hours? Call 979-255-2303. Ninfas now hiring waitstaff. No experience necessary. Apply in person Mon- Thur 1-3:30. Part time, Full time work around your school schedule www.mymailboxfreedom.com PT help needed. Local hunting club/ farming operation needs PT freshmen or sophomore level workers. Average 1 day/ week in off-season; 2-3 days/ week in Fall and Winter. Limited hunting privileges. Applications at www.yardbirdhunting.com
Sublease at the Zone through 8/31/2011. Further information, call 847-977-4534.
Now Hiring Recent and December Grads, Consumer Insurance Advisors is currently interviewing intelligent, energetic, and self motivated professionals who strive to be a part of a dynamic and rapidly expanding company. We offer an extensive training program and competitive base salary, medical benefits, and numerous opportunities for growth. We always reward our employee’s dedication to excellence with frequent bonus opportunities and pay for performance. Salary: $50,000+ (Approximate 1st year income) Location: The Woodlands, Texas For a more detailed job description visit Careers at www.consumerinsuranceadvisors.co m
Part-time job helping handicapped. Male student preferred. $330/mo. 30-hours/mo. 979-846-3376.
Tutors wanted for all subjects currently taught at TAMU/ Blinn and Sam Houston State starting at $8.00/hour. Apply on-line @ www.99Tutors.com, 979-255-3655.
STUDENTPAYOUTS.COM Paid Survey Takers Needed In College Station. 100% Free To Join. Click On Surveys. The Corner Bar &Grill now hiring. Apply in person at 9pm Monday through Wednesday. All positions available.
COLLEGE SKI & BOARD WEEK breckenridge
Reduced! $895/mo, 3bd.2ba C.S.. Huge duplex, fenced, shuttle route, w/d connection, lawn services included. Treehouse trail. www.c4properties.net 979-268-1074.
Now Hiring Recent and December Grads, Consumer Insurance Advisors is currently interviewing intelligent, energetic, and self motivated professionals who strive to be a part of a dynamic and rapidly expanding company. We offer an extensive training program and competitive base salary, medical benefits, and numerous opportunities for growth. We always reward our employee’s dedication to excellence with frequent bonus opportunities and pay for performance. Salary: $50,000+ (Approximate 1st year income) Location: The Woodlands, Texas For a more detailed job description visit Careers at www.consumerinsuranceadvisors.co m Submit resumes to laura.heathcott@nomorehighpremiums.com
LOST & FOUND
PETS
Found Pit Bull mix: Female, no collar/tags, found on 9/26 near Bee Creek Park, CS. 214-498-7561
Adopt Pets: Dogs, Cats, Puppies, Kittens, Many purebreds. Brazos Animal Shelter, 979-775-5755, www.brazosanimalshelter.org
ROOMMATES
Lost black wallet near blocker on 9/17. Keep cash return wallet and cards. 765-532-3639.
1-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.
MUSIC Best deal in town- DJ services/audio rentals. RDM Audio does it all! Weddings, parties, band set ups, PA systems, Event Lighting, 979-260-1925. rdmaudio.com
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
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.
WANTED Texas a&m women’s lacrosse looking for coach. Please contact betsy.meyers2@gmail.com
STUDIES IN PROGRESS FACIAL REDNESS Volunteers ages 18 and older are needed to participate in a 7 week long clinical research study of an investigational topical medication for the treatment of facial redness associated with Rosacea. Eligible volunteers will receive: • Study Related Skin Assessments by a Dermatologist • Investigational Study Medication • Compensation up to $3000 for time and travel Qualified participants will need to make daily office visits whie on the study. For more information please contact:
J&S Studies, Inc. 979-774-5933 1710 Crescent Pointe Parkway, College Station, TX 77845 www.js-studies.com
IT’S TIME
to have your graduation portrait made for Texas A&M University’s 109th yearbook
BRYAN: 1/1&2/1.5 NEWLY RENOVATED Midtown Manor Apts-200 Rebecca St!! ALL NEW EVERYTHING, Clothes Care Center & POOL ON-SITE! W/S, INTERNET, CABLE, GARBAGE PAID!! $ 425-550/MO. 979-775-2291. www.twincityproperties.com
Dec ’10, May ’11, Aug ’11
GRADUATING
SENIORS and
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20 Mountains. 5 Resorts. 1 Price. FROM ONLY
plus t/s
WWW.UBSKI.COM
1-800-SKI-WILD • 1-800-754-9453
GRADUATE STUDENTS
BRYAN: 3/1.5 HOUSES OFF WOODVILLE w/VAULTED CEILINGS, WALK-IN CLOSETS, FENCED YARDS, ALL APPL, W/D CONN!! $ 775/mo. 979-775-2291. www.twincityproperties.com
CHEAP DATE SPECIAL 4003 Southern Trace DRASTICALLY REDUCED! $1100 per month Alpha-Omega Properties, Broker 979-774-7820
BRYAN: 1/1-2/2 APTS in HISTORICAL DISTRICT! COVERED PKNG, CLOTHES CARE CENTER! PAID W/S, INTERNET, CABLE, & GAS! 979-775-2291 $395-$550/MO www.twincityproperties.com
Medium 2-Topping Pizza and two 20oz. Cokes for
$
10.99
601 University Dr.
979-846-3600
BRYAN: 2br DUPLEXES, GREAT LOCATION, W/D CONN, ALL APPL, FENCED YARDS, some have WOOD FLOORS. $565-$585/MO. Pets Welcome! 979.775.2291 www.twincityproperties.com
BRYAN: 2/1 COZY FOURPLEXES, pets ok, W/D CONN, SPACIOUS RMS, minutess from Blinn & TAMU!! $ 465-$515/MO. 979-775-2291. www.twincityproperties.com
1740 Rock Prairie Rd.
979-680-0508
COLLEGE STATION: 3br/1ba w/GARAGE & 4br/2ba w/ STUDY Homes in Wolf Pen Area!! Central A/H, W/D CONN, FENCED YARDS/PATIOS, $825/MO. Pets welcome! 979-775-2291. www.twincityproperties.com
puzzle answers can be found online at www.thebatt.com
Have your senior portrait taken Oct. 5 through Oct. 22 in Training Room 027 of the Clayton W. Williams, Jr. Alumni Center. To schedule your free portrait sitting, go to www.thorntonstudio.com Go to School Portraits, Scheduling, click New User, complete with Login Password: tam Or walk in, 9 am –5 pm weekdays
AGGIELAND 2011 A Texas A&M tradition since 1895
www.AggieNetwork.com
Word Square Fit these letters in the grid. The numbers in brackets indicate the number of appearances of the letter in the word square. A[2], E[6], L[3], O[2], R[1], S[2], T[1], V[2]
Tuesday’s solution:
N U D E
U N I X
D I V A
E X A M
Siddharth Kumar — THE BATTALION
Pg. 6-09-29-10.indd 1
9/28/10 4:59:50 PM