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Sam Smith — THE BATTALION
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thebattalion THE INDEPENDENT STUDENT VOICE OF TEXAS A&M SINCE 1893
Amanda Casanova, 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. call www. For classiďŹ ed advertising, .com 979-845-0569. 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.
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Fort Hood suspect charged with murder
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thebattalion 11.13.2009
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FORT HOOD, TEXAS — The Army psychiatrist accused in the Fort Hood shootings was charged with 13 counts of premeditated murder in the military’s legal system, making him eligible for the death penalty if convicted, ofďŹ cials said Thursday. Meanwhile, President www.villagefoods.com Barack Obama We make it easy to eat... ordered a review of all intelligence related to Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan and whether it was properly shared and acted upon within individual government agencies. U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command spokesman Chris Grey said at a news conference that additional charges may www.villagefoods.com Last week’s answer beWe ďŹ led make againstitHasan. easy to... Zachry Engineering Building Associated Press
J.D. Swiger — THE BATTALION
Think you know every nook and cranny of Texas A&M? The first people to get the answers correct will have their names published. Send your response with your name, class and major to photo@ thebatt.com.
Correct responses Jason Shore, senior chemistry major LM Price, freshman nuclear engineering major Russell Stockman, sophomore ďŹ nance major Kevin Havis, sophomore mechanical engineering major Taylor Mozisek, senior engineering technology major Julia Gamez, freshman biomedical engineering major
Coming Tuesday: BonďŹ re collapse 10 years later This year marks the 100-year anniversary of the on-campus BonďŹ re tradition, if it had continued to burn. Ten years ago on Nov. 18, the stack collapsed, killing 12 and injuring 27, and BonďŹ re has not burned on campus since.
In honor of a president
The Association will deliver *nearly 2,000 shiny new Aggie
In 1963, BonďŹ re was built but torn down in a tribute to President John F. Kennedy who was assassinated on Nov. 22, 1963.
Rings today! Find out more at AggieNetwork.com.
how to apply If you are interested in writing or contributing content in The Battalion apply online at thebatt.com, or come by MSC 032, 845-3313. The Battalion welcomes any Texas A&M student interested in writing for the arts, campus, metro or sports staffs to try out. We particularly encourage freshmen and sophomores to apply, but students may try out regardless of semester standing or major. No previous journalism experience is necessary. Check us out on thebatt.com, Facebook AggieNetwork.com
Worship
Directory Jewish Texas A&M Hillel
Jewish Student Organization 800 George Bush Dr. 979-696-7313 hillel@tamuhillel.org Shabbat services begin at 8:00pm every Friday www.tamuhillel.org
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news
page 3 friday 11.13.2009
thebattalion
‘We Remember’ T-shirts
More information
“We Remember” commemorative Bonfire T-shirts are available at the MSC Bookstore or online at www.mscbookstore.com for $10, with proceeds directed to the Bonfire Memorial Fund.
For more information on Bonfire Remembrance Week, go to bonfire.tamu.edu.
File — THE BATTALION
Tradition and tragedy Campus unites to celebrate the lives lost at Bonfire
Bonfire Exhibit, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Rudder Exhibit Hall
Laura Sanchez | The Battalion
Exhibits of photographs and memorabilia related to the history of Bonfire prior to the 1999 accident.
T
his year marks the 10-year anniversary of the Bonfire collapse and the 100-year anniversary of the start of Aggie Bonfire. Texas A&M Traditions Council, the MSC Hospitality Committee, the Corps of Cadets and the Residence Hall Association have teamed up to present Bonfire Remembrance Week, a week of events commemorating the tradition and tragedy.
“It’s all about remembrance. It’s all about those Aggies who lost their lives and remembering those who were injured,” said Service and Bonfire Executive Lauren Chapa. The Bonfire Exhibit will be open to the public from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. from Saturday through Monday in Rudder Exhibit Hall and will move Tuesday and Wednesday to G. Rollie White Coliseum. “We’ll have pictures that have a history of Bonfire from the early 1900s on until the collapse. We have a lot of pictures of the collapse, so those will be on display. There’s also going to be a lot of memorabilia from that year. We’ll have some of the old pots and all kinds of things, maybe one of the rings that somebody left at center pole,” said Vice Chairman for Traditions council Mason Etheredge. A remembrance program will take place at 8 p.m. Tuesday in Reed Arena. Doors will open at 7 p.m., and there will be open seating.
Saturday - Monday
“We’ll have opening remarks from Gen. Weber, and then we will be going through a little bit of the history of Bonfire. We’ll also have a parent from one of the 12 fallen Aggies speak, but they’re not confirmed yet, so we’re not sure on that yet,” said MSC Hospitality chairman Ryan Dudley. After the remembrance program the annual 2:42 a.m. candlelight vigil will take place at the Bonfire Memorial Wednesday to commemorate 10 years from the exact time the stack fell in 1999. Candles will be provided by Traditions Council, but they are asking students to bring them. “We’re encouraging students to come out and be a part of this to continue that remembrance and to show our support,” Chapa said. The Bonfire Memorial is set up in a circular shape with 12 portals representing each fallen Aggie, facing in the direction of their hometowns. The center of the memorial is where center pole stood.
Tuesday Bonfire Exhibit, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., G Rollie White Coliseum A continuation of the Rudder Hall exhibit of Bonfire photographs and memorabilia.
Bonfire Remembrance Program, 8 p.m., Reed Arena A remembrance ceremony marking the 10th anniversary of the night that Stack fell. The program will be similar to Muster, the annual remembrance of Aggies who have died during the past year.
Wednesday Candlelight Vigil, 2:42 a.m., Bonfire Memorial A candlelight vigil marking the 10th anniversary of the moment that Stack fell. The memorial, built around the site of the 1999 Bonfire stack, features portals honoring each student killed in the accident.
Bonfire Exhibit, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., G. Rollie White Coliseum A continuation of the Rudder Hall exhibit of Bonfire photographs and memorabilia.
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APPLY FOR YOUR LOAN TODAY 800-531-4610 | usaa.com/rotc Precommissioned Officer offer subject to approval. Variable APR on Purchases and Cash Advances is 7.75% as of September 2009. There is a transaction fee of 3% on cash advances ($75 maximum on balance transfers and convenience checks) and 1% on foreign transactions. Payments are applied to balances with the lowest rate on your account until paid in full before any higher-rate balances are paid. This means any higher-rate balances will continue to grow and will not be reduced as long as introductory or promotional-rate balances are due. If your account becomes two payments past due, the delinquency APR is triggered. We must provide you 45 days notice before the delinquency APR takes effect. We reserve the right to change account terms, including the APRs. USAA does not charge a fee for the first 10 ATM withdrawals and refunds up to $15 in other banks’ ATM usage fees each month. A 1% foreign transaction fee applies to withdrawals outside the United States. Credit cards provided by USAA Savings Bank, other bank products by USAA Federal Savings Bank, both Member FDIC. USAA means United Services Automobile Association and its affiliates. © 2009 USAA. 92333-1009
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thebattalion
The Reed Rowdies are a student organization that is centered around providing support for the men’s basketball team. Stephen Fogg — THE BATTALION
Reed Rowdies hope to grow Patrick Hayslip The Battalion When you woke up today you might not have known it, but you’re a part of the Reed Rowdies. As the basketball season opens, the student organization Reed Rowdies is preparing for the start of the men’s basketball season by urging anyone who is a fan of Aggie basketball to join. “Pretty much anyone who shows up to the game is a Reed Rowdy,” said President Matt Bate, a senior accounting major. “It’s not an exclusive thing. To be a Reed Rowdy, you have to yell, go through the basketball traditions, be loud and supportive.” With no official number of Reed Rowdies, the group considers themselves a fan club of the team and is looking for anyone who wants to join for the sake of the team and Reed Arena. “Our goal is to increase the atmosphere of student attendance at Reed Arena and the overall knowledge of basketball within the student body,” Bate said. “It’s really easy for students to take charge
and promote basketball on campus. We just want to make games fun and make them an experience.” A Reed Rowdy is similar to the Twelfth Man in football, and the same Aggie yells apply, but with a twist. Since fans are closer to the players, there is more of a home court advantage, especially when it comes to the behavior of a Reed Rowdy. “We are trying to set apart the basketball program so that it has a great atmosphere,” said junior business major Zach Reeh. “We are essentially trying to reinvent that atmosphere.” For Bate, that was one of the main reasons he joined Reed Rowdies. “The coolest thing about basketball for me and why I love it so much is you, as a student, are right there,” Bate said. “The players can see and hear you and you can affect the game.” Whether you call it spirited enthusiasm or plain old heckling, the atmosphere in Reed Arena plays a factor in the game on the court. “Heckling is great,” Reeh said. “You can say something and people can hear you, and they will look up at you. If someone
makes a great play, and they are on the court, you can tell them that you appreciate what they’re doing. You’re able to see emotion and effort as opposed to football when you’re so far away.” For Reed Rowdies, just being fans isn’t enough. They have goals every year that include putting on fundraisers, providing discounted tickets to certain games and promoting the overall knowledge of the organization. “To get people to come to games, we are trying to promote a lot,” Reeh said. “I think that’s what sets us apart from other sports organizations. A future goal of ours as an organization is to get more members and officers. The end goal is to fill up Reed Arena more frequently and for it to not be a freak accident.” Becoming a Reed Rowdy is simple. Any student who is a fan of Aggie basketball is welcome to join. “We have a great team and great fans,” Bate said. “We haven’t been a good basketball school for long. Now, we are trying to become a great basketball school.”
A word from your basketball coaches Mark Turgeon
Sam Smith — THE BATTALION
Sophomore point guard Dash Harris takes over as the starter this season. He’ll lead the Aggies into their first game against Angelo State at 7 p.m. on Friday.
Aggie men and women open seasons this weekend David Harris The Battalion The practices and exhibitions have come to a close and now both the Texas A&M men’s and women’s basketball teams will get the seasons started off this weekend at Reed Arena. The Aggie men will play Angelo State Friday night, and the No. 16 Aggie women will welcome in No. 6 Duke on Sunday. The men come into the season looking to build on what was a successful 20082009 campaign under Head Coach Mark Turgeon. The team made its fourth straight appearance in the NCAA Tournament and also became one of six teams to advance to the second round of the tournament in the last four years. The team will be somewhat reliant on incoming freshmen after the departures of both Josh Carter and Chinemelu Elonu. However, Turgeon thinks the freshmen and the team have come along faster than he thought they would. “We’re a little further along than I thought we’d be,” Turgeon said. “I have a group that is meshing well together. They’re fun to coach everyday. Across the board,
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everybody has gotten better and our freshmen are a lot further along than I thought they’d be.” Despite the departure of their leading scorer and leading rebounder, the Aggies return much of the core from last year’s squad. Seniors Donald Sloan, Bryan Davis and Derrick Roland all return and make up 60 percent of the starting lineup. Joining them will be sophomores Dash Harris and David Loubeau. “I think we’ve had enough scrimmaging against each other,” Sloan said. “We’re anxious to see different faces. It’ll be good for us. We’re looking forward to getting better against other guys.” Against Angelo State, A&M will look to win their ninth straight season opener and is looking to win their 57th straight nonconference game at Reed Arena. The Rams come into Friday’s game several days after falling to Rice in Houston. They come from Division Two and more specifically, the Lone Star Conference. Last year, under Head Coach Fred Rike, they advanced to the Division 2 NCAA Tournament for the first time in seven years. The Aggies will have to
focus on Preseason Lone Star Conference player of the year, Shavar Burch. Despite the challenge, Turgeon said he likes how the team’s defense is coming along. “I think we’re ready,” Turgeon said. “We’ve got a lot in. They’ve worked really hard, and I think they’re ready. It comes quickly. We’ve got a lot ahead of us. We’re ready defensively. I really feel that we’re still evolving offensively but that’s only a matter of time before that all comes together.” The Aggie women come into 2009 with 11 returning lettermen from the Sweet 16 squad a year ago. On Sunday, they will be facing off with Duke in a rematch of the Sweet 16 in 2008, a game that the Aggies won to advance to their first ever Elite Eight. Leading the Aggies will be Tanisha Smith, an All Big 12 Honorable Mention selection. Also helping the Aggies will be Big 12 Newcomer of the Year and National Junior College Player of the Year, Danielle Adams. A&M this season will be looking to advance to their fifth straight NCAA Tournament under Head Coach Gary Blair.
Gary Blair
Men’s basketball Head Coach Mark Turgeon addresses the importance of the student body’s support
Women’s basketball Head Coach Gary Blair stresses that the Twelfth Man is needed more than ever
Howdy Ags, Our basketball season begins tonight at Reed Arena. I can’t wait to take the floor in front of you, the Twelfth Man. From the moment that our season ended last year at the NCAA tournament in Philadelphia, our players have been working in preparation for a successful 2009-10 season. This year’s team features a core of five seniors, including three who have a wealth of experience and have won a lot of games in the maroon and white. We return eight sophomores and juniors who were key to our NCAA tournament run. You will see four new freshmen from the class of 2013 who will add great skills, athleticism and talent to our team. There are several factors that have played into our recent success: great recruiting, hard work, diligent preparation, and a great homecourt advantage. You impact the outcome on the court and the outcome in recruiting battles. I’ll always remember our victory over t.u. in 2008 and our win over Missouri last season. The student body was the difference is those games. The ticket lottery system has been eliminated, and the process is now simpler for you to get into our games. You can guarantee yourself a seat by pulling a ticket at the Kyle Field ticket windows or you can just show up at Reed Arena on game night to gain admittance. When we get 4,300 students in Reed, we will be an awfully tough team to beat. In fact, since I’ve been the head coach at Texas A&M, we’ve never lost when we’ve had at least 4,000 students at Reed. Our players and staff are ready to do their part to make this a fun and successful season, and I hope the Twelfth Man is ready to do theirs. See you tonight at Reed. Gig ‘em, Coach Turg
Did you feel the excitement at Maroon Madness when 20,000 of you were there at Kyle Field to officially welcome the start of the Aggie Basketball season? In four short years, we have accomplished what very few other teams have been able to do. We have been to four-straight NCAA Tournaments, won back-to-back Big 12 Conference Championships in 2007 and 2008, made an Elite Eight appearance in 2008 (only to lose to eventual national champion Tennessee) and followed up with a Sweet 16 appearance in 2009. Do you remember our Big Monday game on ESPN2 last year when we beat No. 2 Oklahoma after being down by 14 points in the second half? It was a great comeback started by the Twelfth Man and finished by Takia Starks’s drive to win it in the final seconds. Close to 700 students stormed the court spontaneously to help us celebrate such a historic win and our first-ever court storming at Reed Arena on national television. We’re young and talented this year and we need you even more than we have in previous seasons. We are growing this team to be a constant player on the national scene and need you behind us the whole way. Remember, you have made headlines for having the best student support in the nation for all sports at Texas A&M University. I’m asking you to take one more sport under your wing that needs you. I promise you this team will fight 94 feet for you every night. You will leave Reed Arena proud that you helped make a difference on the court. Last year, I challenged you to help us move up in the Big 12 attendance race and we’ve moved from ninth to sixth – and just a couple hundred away from Texas for fifth place. Aggies, you have a chance to make something incredible happen and be a part of history. On Sunday, we will host No. 6 Duke at 2 p.m. at Reed Arena. What a way to start off the season. We need the support of the Twelfth Man versus the Blue Devils as well as at each and every home game throughout the season. You truly make a difference at our games and we hope to see you soon at Reed Arena. Gig’Em, Coach Blair
P.S. Join us for the first-ever Fightin’ Texas Aggie Basketball Yell Practice at 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 19 at Reed Arena. Join our players, my staff and me as we get this season started off right with Yell Practice.
Men’s Basketball:
Women’s Basketball:
Angelo State at Texas A&M 7 p.m. Sunday Reed Arena
No. 6 Duke at No. 16 Texas A&M 2 p.m. Sunday Reed Arena
11/12/09 9:42 PM
sports
Sam Smith — THE BATTALION
thebatt.com the batt.com Look for in-depth profiles of the incoming freshmen and junior college players online.
thebattalion the battalion 11.13.2009 page page5 5
What up, Holmes? Sixth man plays bigger than his size Michael Sullivan The Battalion hoever said that it requires size to play basketball never met B.J. Holmes. Holmes is a junior shooting guard for the Texas A&M men’s basketball team who is listed at 5 feet 11 inches and weighs 175 pounds. Regardless of his size, Holmes will match-up with anyone on the other side of the ball. “People say you are too small for this, but I have never had a problem with it,” Holmes said. “I will guard anybody, play anybody, no matter their size. I just go out there and play hard every night and try to show people you don’t have to be the tall-
W
est, strongest or fastest guy.” Holmes entered Texas A&M in the fall of 2007, the same year Head Coach Mark Turgeon took over the A&M coaching position. Recruited by then A&M Coach Billy Gillespie, Holmes along with the other incoming recruits decided the coaching change was not enough to keep them out of Aggieland. “It was a long process with Coach Gillespie leaving and Coach Turgeon coming in,” Holmes said. “My whole class with DeAndre [Jordan], Nate [Walkup] and Derrick Roland all said I think Coach Turgeon is going to be pretty good. We all decided to stay and that ended up being a good decision.” Another influence on his
decision to join the Aggies was that A&M was the closest school to his family in Houston. Holmes dreamed of the opportunity to play college basketball at a place where his family could come to his games, so A&M was an easy choice. “My family wanted to see me play and this was the closest place to home,” Holmes said. “Growing up we didn’t have everything I wanted, but my parents were able to get everything we needed. I do it for them, try to make them look good, and they are my biggest influence.” To sum up the type of play Holmes displays on the court, one only needs to look as far See Holmes on page 6
Guards above all Carter coming on Sophomore looks to adjust to new role Michael Teague The Battalion
C
oming off one of the best freshman campaigns in Texas A&M women’s basketball history, guard Sydney Carter is looking to help take the Aggies to the next level this season. In her first collegiate season, Carter averaged 4.3 points, 1.6 assists and 1.2 steals per game while coming off the bench. With starting point guard Sydney Colson hampered with a knee injury, Carter was forced to step up and produce as a freshman. Texas A&M Head Coach Gary Blair emphasized how difficult it is for a first-year player to perform at the level Carter did last season.
“Carter basically saved the year for us,” Blair said. “She had no chance to think about it because she was just thrown to the wolves early. We would have lost that first game against LSU if she hadn’t come off the bench and given us 12 points in 22 minutes.” With a full season under her belt, Sydney Carter said she is ready to become more of a leader on the team. “At the ‘one’ position [Blair] is looking for me to make my team better,” Carter said. “He’s told me before he really wants me out there to make the team better and to not worry about myself. I want to make everyone else around me better. He’s looking for me to step up into more of a leadership role this
year because I am more experienced and more confident.” Carter’s success off the bench means the sophomore may find herself in the starting lineup this season. Blair has been working with Carter at the two spot in the off-season, trying to increase her offensive production. Colson compares Carter’s skill set to that of former A&M star Takia Starks. “On this team, she’s supposed to be at the ‘two’ position but a lot of the time she’s up there handling the ball,” Colson said. “It was something that Starks did so well. She comes off, and her footwork is perfect. She’s fast and pretty much guaranteed to knock it down.” See Carter on page 6
Jon Eilts — THE BATTALION
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thebattalion where she felt comfortable. “A big part of my decision was based on where I would fit in with the team,” Carter said. “That was my main focus. Where was I going to feel like I was going to have a family outside of basketball? I always wanted to play with Colson because I always looked up to her growing up. It was just a matter of where I was going to feel more comfortable with the coaches and the team.” Despite the fact that Carter has only played one season, she has experienced more than a majority of A&M basketball players have in their entire careers. She had an action-packed freshman season that ended in the Sweet 16.
Carter Continued from page 5
Doug Klembara — THE BATTALION
Sophomore guard B.J. Holmes and the Aggies begin their run at a fifth straight bid to the NCAA Tournament
Holmes Continued from page 5
as his left and right biceps, which combine to read, “Fear Nothing.” After entering into a tattoo parlor one night with teammates DeAndre Jordan and Derrick Roland, Holmes said he decided it was time to add something to his empty biceps. After much consideration, Holmes said he landed the phrase “Fear Nothing (except God)” and has tried to play by it since. “I went with [“Fear Nothing”] last year and it helped me out because I played by “Fear Nothing,” Holmes said. “I tried to go out there and play with the bigs, bang with the bigs and do all the little stuff. I tried to play hard, play with toughness, and I think that does sum me up a little bit about my game.” As the Aggies enter the 2009-2010 season, many have begun discussing the possibility of Holmes taking the role of 3-point shooter in the Aggies’ lineup. With Josh Carter, the school record holder in the 3
point category, no longer on the team many expect Holmes to fill his shoes. Despite the talk, Holmes said he chooses not to label himself as just a 3-point shooter, but rather a team player. “Whatever my team needs I will do,” Holmes said. “If they need me to shoot a three, I will shoot a three. If they need me to shoot a two, I will shoot a two. As me being that guy that shoots three, I don’t like to tie myself down to that one person because I can do so much more.” With the 2009-2010 season here, Holmes has yet to set personal goals for the season nor does he plan to. Unlike most players who set goals for themselves, Holmes leaves the goal category empty except for
one: winning. “If I set personal goals, I go out there and try to complete my goals instead of just playing the game,” Holmes said. “I don’t really have any personal goals just because I just want to go out there and do what I know how to do. I have been doing this my whole life. In the game, the goal I am trying to reach is to win.”
“two” guard, Carter’s focus will shift away from distributing ut ing the ball toward putting points on the board. “I’m just looking to make a good transition,” Carter said. “[Blair] knows I can play the ‘one’ position, but he’s looking for me to adjust and not to just be a pass-first person. He wants me to look to shoot the ball more and be more of a scorer.” Whether at the “one” or “two,” starting or coming off the bench, Blair is looking forward to utilizing Carter this season. “If Carter isn’t in the starting line-up, she’ll be our ‘sixth man,’” Blair said. “It doesn’t matter. She’ll play starter minutes, regardless. She’s one of our veterans who knows how to play and really did a great job last year of being a freshmen and stepping in.” Carter is no stranger to playing big-time basketball in important games. As a junior at DeSoto High School, she averaged 11.9 points per game leading her team to 36-3 record. In recruitment, Blair was aware of Carter’s poise and composure in big games. “When you come from a 5-A high school and you’ve had very good coaching, you know what pressure is all about,” Blair said. “Sometimes, these kids who come from real small schools haven’t been around a lot. This kid knows what it’s all about. She’s from Dallas, which is one of the hotbeds for women’s basketball in the country.” Coming out of high school, Carter was ranked the ninth best player in the state of Texas. Despite receiving an offer from powerhouse Louisville, Sydney decided to stay in state and headed down to Aggieland. One of the key factors in Carter’s decision was finding a place
“
The Oklahoma game was the biggest and greatest experience of all.” — sophomore guard Sydnee Carter on her favorite memory at A&M
Her favorite memory however, came in February when the Aggies upset No. 2 Oklahoma 57-56 at Reed Arena. Following a last-second lay-up by Starks (“The Drive”), A&M fans stormed the court in celebration. Carter played in the game for 31 minutes racking up 11 points and three assists. “The Oklahoma game was the biggest and greatest experience of all,” Carter said. “It was the first year of my collegiate career, and it was the first time I’ve ever seen fans rush the court after such a win.” After getting her first year of college out of the way, Carter is settling in to being a student athlete at Texas A&M. Although she enjoys College Station, she said her favorite part about college basketball is visiting other schools.
psst...
2009 Aggieland yearbooks are here. IF YOU did not order the 2009 Texas A&M University yearbook (the 20082009 school year), a limited number are available at the Student Media office, Bldg. #8901 in The Grove (between Albritton Bell Tower and Cain Hall). Hours: 8:30 A.M.–4:30 P.M. Monday–Friday. $59.95 plus tax. Cash, check, VISA, MasterCard, Discover and American Express accepted. IF YOU pre-ordered a 2009 Aggieland, it has been mailed to your billing address.
CONGRATULATIONS! Join the celebration at the Clayton W. Williams, Jr. Alumni Center
November 13th Ring Delivery 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm Ring Tickets will be distributed at the Clayton W. Williams, Jr. Alumni Center all day beginning at 7:15 am. Approximate Schedule for Groups to Enter the Ring Delivery Room Group #1
3:00 pm
Group #6
4:30 pm
Groups #1-10 6:00 pm
Group #2
3:15 pm
Group #7
4:45 pm
Group #11
6:15 pm
Group #3
3:30 pm
Groups #1-7 5:00 pm
Group #12
6:30 pm
Group #4
3:45 pm
Group #8
5:15 pm
Groups #1-12 6:45 pm
Groups #1- 4 4:00 pm
Group #9
5:30 pm
Group #5
Group #10
5:45 pm
4:15 pm
2009-2010 Texas A&M University Campus Directory Listings of departments, administrators, faculty, staff, students, and other information about A&M, plus yellow pages.
If your group’s time has already passed, please wait until the top of the hour when your group will be called once again. Entry into the Ring Delivery Area will only be allowed if it is either your group’s approximated time slot or when your grouping is called at the top of the hour (see schedule for clarification). Parking is available with a valid parking permit in PA 100. Those without valid permits may park at the University Center Garage or the West Campus Garage. The Aggie Ring Shuttle will be available from the West Campus Garage.
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WE’VE GOT YOUR NUMBER D
EPARTMENTS: If you ordered Campus Directories and requested delivery, delivery will be made within the next few days.
If you did not order Campus Directories, you may charge and pick them up in The Grove, Bldg. #8901 (between Albritton Bell Tower and Cain Hall). Cost is $3 per copy. Please bring a Student Media Work Order. Call 845-2646 for info. AggieNetwork.com
Hours: 8:30 A.M.–4:30 P.M. Monday–Friday
11/12/09 7:20 PM
page 7 friday 11.13.2009
thebattalion
TO PLACE
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Spacious 3bd/3ba. Close to campus. Washer and dryer provided. www.aggielandleasing.com
Student Media has an opening for a student to deliver The Battalion newspaper starting with the spring semester (January 19, 2009). Position requires paper delivery between 6am-10am, Monday-Friday. Must have reliable transportation. Great pay! Interested applicants apply at The Grove Building 8901, ask for Joseph.
FOR RENT
4/2, 2 living, 2 dining, 2 car garage. $1600/mo. Available now call 979-587-2550. 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 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. Balcones Apartments, only 2 left! 1/1 on bus route $475/mo. 703-8282.
$375 pre-lease. 1/1, 2/1. Free Wi-Fi, On Northgate, on Shuttle. Short term leases ok. Call agent, Ardi. 979-422-5660.
Casa Verde town-home 2/2 W/D connection. Near bus stop. Pest, water, lawn paid $695/mo. 703-8282.
$580/mo., 2bd/1.5ba. on bus route. One mile from campus. 972-951-2579.
Close to campus 2bd/2bth. Washer and dryer. Fenced yard. www.aggielandleasing.com www.southwoodplace.com
FARM/RANCH Horse boarding $100/mo., large pens with shelter, lighted arena and more. 25-minutes from campus. Call 979-589-2334.
Ring Day overdue for deserving students Joaquin Villegas The Battalion Aggie Ring Day is a day Texas A&M students look forward to with pride as the culmination of their college careers. More than 2,500 students are receiving Aggie Rings today. One of these students is Jenifer Paz, senior urban and regional sciences major, who encourages her family to succeed by being the first in her family to graduate from a university. Paz’s parents were born in Honduras and migrated to the United States before Paz was born. Born and raised in the United States, Paz was faced with many opportunities that other members of her family had never experienced. “It was really eye-opening to see all the opportunities I had, compared to what my parents experienced,” Paz said. “It really inspired me to do all that I could to make sure I took advantage of those opportunities.” Paz said she took classes during summer sessions in order to graduate on time and make sure she did not fall behind on her work. “We are really proud of her accomplishments,” said Nelly Medina, Paz’s mother. “She inspires all of her family to realize that we can accomplish anything we want to as long as we are persistent and work hard for it.” At A&M, Paz said she tries to make the most out of her college experience and has joined various extracurricular activities. Paz serves as the director of finance and administration for the Hispanic Presidents’ Council. “I help an organization that brings resources together for the various Hispanic student organizations around campus and also raise awareness about the Hispanic culture among the students,” Paz said. To alleviate the financial burden on her family, Paz decided to pay for her own ring. She works part-time at the Pub-
lic Policy Research Institute as an interviewer. “I help the researchers by interviewing families in Spanish, since some of them don’t know how to speak English,” Paz said. Paz said the Aggie Ring means she is close to the finish line. “It’s a reality check that I’ve accomplished what I came to college to do, graduate and face the world knowing that I am part of something bigger than myself, the Aggie family,” Paz said. Since the renovation of the Clayton W. Williams Jr. Alumni Center, a quote posted on the center’s wall expresses the symbolism behind the Aggie Ring. “Today you inherit a legacy of benevolence that is admired an envied throughout the world,” it states. “The quote explains pretty well how Aggies feel about the ring,” said Kelli Hutka, director of campus programs at the Association of Former Students, “and denotes the pride behind wearing such an important symbol.” The students receiving rings will be able to pick up rings from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. While waiting for their group to be called in, students and family members will enjoy performances by student organizations. “Aggie Wranglers, Fade to Black and Swing Cats will be some of the organizations performing at the event,” said Julie Scamardo, coordinator of the Aggie Ring Program at the Association of Former Students. “Also, there will be refreshments and concession stands where food can be purchased.” The Aggie Ring has been a tradition at A&M since the Class of 1889 originated the tradition. The ring students wear now was designed by E.C. Jonas, Class of 1894, and the ring has made one change from that design. The name of the University was changed from Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas to Texas A&M University.
$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.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
AUTO
The 1946 Aggie Ring replica stands on the remodeled Haynes Ring Plaza at the Clayton W. Williams, Jr. Alumni Center, where Aggie rings will be distributed today. The bronze replica measures 12 feet by 9 feet and weighs 6,500 pounds.
PRIVATE PARTY WANT ADS
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.
I buy vehicles, running or not running. 979-778-1121.
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$900 Available now 3bd/2ba duplex near tamu. Has W/D, lawn care and pests paid. Call Jimmy (832)724-3554 or duplexrenter@yahoo.com $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. 2 bedroom Four-plex and Duplex, a couple of different floor plans to choose from. Some with wood floors, fireplace, fenced yard. www.twincityproperties.com 979-775-2291. 2,3,&4 nice bedroom homes for rent, call J.C. 254-721-6179. 2/1.5 with W/D connection, great location, with backyard. Near bus-stop. Water , lawn, & pest paid. $600/mo. 422-4296. 2/2 duplex on Navarro Drive. Available immediately for sublease. 254-396-3993 or Lshanks@tamu.edu 2bd 1bath University Terrace Apartments, $580/mo obo, lease ends May 2010, NEED TO SELL (512)739-8244. 2bd/1ba W/D water included, shuttle stop in front, 3/4 mile from campus. Ceiling fans, very clean. (979)690-4181. 2bdrm/3ba duplexes. Great floorplans, fenced yards, w/d, tile floors, icemakers, alarm systems. 979-776-6079, www.aggielandleasing.com 3/2 duplex. Prelease January. Very nice. 5mins to campus. W/D. Lawn care, security monitored. $900/mo. 979-691-0304, 979-571-6020. 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, walk to campus, $1100 +deposit, flexible lease term 979-324-3901. 3/3 duplex. All appliances, fenced yard, large living areas, yard maintenance, available January. 979-204-2644 or clydie@elliscustomhomes.com 3/3 Duplexes, 1400sqft, fenced backyard, all appliances new, excellent specials, 979-694-0320. office@luxormanagement.com 3bd/2ba great floorplan, on shuttle route. Washer and dryer. Fans, stainless appliances. New, new, new. www.aggielandleasing.com www.southwoodplace.com 3bdrm/3ba duplexes. Great floorplans, fenced yards, w/d, tile floors, icemakers, alarm systems. 979-776-6079. www.aggielandleasing.com
Duplex for sublease, rent $650/mo. 2bd/1ba, fenced backyard. 832-330-1164. Duplexes available 3bd/2ba. $1050/mo. on bus route. Lawn control included. 832-724-3554.
January 1st. Legacy Lane care and pest Call Jimmy
For rent/pre-leasing 3 bedroom/2 bath townhouse in Wolf Pen. One block to campus. On shuttle route. $1200/month. 979-777-8407 House for rent, 3/1.5/1, 3-quarter acre, rural, fenced, $875/mo., $875/deposit. Available now. 979-696-1670. Midterm lease available! 3bd/2.5ba duplex, full size W&D, country setting, fenced yard, pets ok, flexible lease term, free lawn care. $999. (979)255-3280. CS. Northgate rent new. W/D connection. 1/1, 2/2, 3/3. Walk to campus. (979)255-5648. Pre-leasing Townhome Style Condos 2bd/2.5ba off Spring Loop and University Drive. River Ridge Townhomes. Close to campus on the bus route. Call 979-690-1504 or email Sieglipp@yahoo.com Quiet country setting 1.5 miles from campus. Nice 3/2 double-wide. Fireplace, deck, stalls available. $1000/mo. 979-846-5950. Ridgewood Village efficiency with loft. Uniquely designed floor plan. No pets, $385/mo, $250 deposit. 1211-1213 Holik. 979-696-2998. Some short term leases available. $415/mo. Ridgewood Village, large very quiet tree-shaded 1bdrm/1bth studio, no pets. $435/mo, $250 deposit, 1201-1209 Holik. 979-696-2998. Some short term leases available $485/mo. Roommates needed. 4bd/4bth $325/mo., washer/dryer. University Place on Southwest Parkway. 281-844-2090. Spacious 2bd/2ba, washer and dryer provided, shuttle route, curbside parking. www.aggielandleasing.com www.southwoodplace.com
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Student Special! 2bd/1ba Apartment, all appliances included. 2.5 miles from campus. $475/mo plus deposit. Brian (832)723-6473 or Debi (979)268-3200
FOR SALE 1997 Yamaha scooter. 49cc. Low miles, great condition. $650. 279-3845, 209-4267
HELP WANTED A Vision for Success! EyeMasters, one of the nation’s leading optical retailers, has excellent opportunities available in College Station. Retail Manager, Lab Manager, Lens Manufacturing Technicians, Eyewear Specialists. We offer full paid training, excellent pay, benefits and opportunity for advancement. Please apply in person at our Post Oak Mall location or online at: www.ecca.com/careers You may also email a resume to: resumes@ecca.com Equal Opportunity, Drug Free Employer. Assistant teachers part-time. Working with children 18-mo. through 6-yrs, great learning opportunity for education majors or anyone wanting experience working with children. Please apply at swlccs@gmail.com or 979-693-6556. Athletic men for calendars, books, etc. $100-$200/hr, up to $1000/day. No experience. 512-684-8296. photoguy@io.com Bingo worker: great job opportunity. Above average pay with commisions &tips. Flexible hours. Hospitalization benefits available. Must have acceptable credit &clean background check. Apply in person at the Bingo Barn, 1018 S. TX Ave, Bryan, TX. Cleaning commercial buildings at night, M-F. Call 979-823-5031 for appointment. Easy work, good for Special Ed/PT/Nursing students. In-home care, special needs teen. Must have transportation, phone. Non-smoker. List, feed, bathe, dress. Mon-Fri, 4-7pm. Some Saturday afternoons. $8/hour, 224-2561. Fast paced design shop in need of entry level graphic artist. Full or part time, pre-employment drug screen. Full time includes 401k and insurance. Apply at Jack Hilliard Dist. 1000 Independence, Bryan TX. GET PAID TO TAKE NOTES! Email your course listing and a brief description about yourself to tamu@sharenotes.com START EARNING TODAY! Help wanted: website designer. Call J.C. 254-721-6179. J. Cody’s hiring part-time cashiers. Apply within, 3610 S. College. No experience necessary, just common sense! Math teacher needed for all levels. Science a plus. Late afternoon and evenings M-Th. Call Sylvan at 979-846-4988. Now hiring servers/cashiers/greeters. Apply at Rock Prairie & Hwy 6., Cotton Patch. Part-time staff assistant needed for busy real estate office. Must be a detail- oriented people person with reliable transportation and have reasonable computer skills in MS Word and MS Excel. This position requires 20-25 hrs/wk beginning as soon as possible and to remain in this position at least through early December 2010. For job description and application, go to www.coventryglenrealty.net and click on Employment Opportunities. Part-time, Database Assistant/Information and Referral (I&R) Specialist position available with 2-1-1 Texas/United Way. Responsible for assisting with database updates and maintenance and providing I&R services to clients. Must be detail oriented and possess exceptional skills in multi-tasking. Experiencing with database systems and proficiency in MS Office required. Interest in nonprofit field, a plus. Submit resume and cover letter to 211@uwbv.org. Sell VIP Cards! Make $5 for every $10 Aggieland VIP Card you sell, No Limit! Contact Sean@AggielandVIP.com STUDENTPAYOUTS.COM Paid survey takers needed in College Station. 100% free to join. Click on surveys.
The Kids Klub afterschool program is seeking P/T employees for the Spring 2010 semester. People are needed M-F, 2:45pm-6:15pm. ROP: $8.00-$8.75/hr. Please call 979-764-3831 or www.cstx.gov/kidsklub 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.
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 Baby Sugar Gliders, Semi leash trained, with book, (979)696-2533 $100. Ragdoll Cats and older kittens. Fully vaccinated, spayed/neutered, and felv/fiv negative. $100 & up. maxinefashion@gmail.com
REAL ESTATE Buy &Sell B/CS homes, condos, duplexes. RE/MAX. Nadia 979-693-1851. Michael 979-739-2035. www.bcsrealty.com
ROOMMATES 1 roomate needed. Spacious 2 story townhouse in Canyon Creek. Fully furnished. 4/2.5 $400/mo. +1/4 utilities. 713-823-9341. 2-roommates needed for Spring. 4/2 house. 2505 Antietam. $400/mo +1/4 utilities. Shelley, 361-463-6763. Female roomate needed to share 3/3. $400/mo +utilities. January -July 2010. No pets. Paloma Ridge duplex. reinobrittney@gmail.com Female roommate needed. 2bd/2ba in The Zone apartments. Available for immediate move in. $530/mo +1/2 electricity. 1st month free. Contact Barbara 713-550-6560. One Female roommate! $400/mo. +utilities, 104 Pershing Ave. C.S. Texas 77840 morganmonet@gmail.com One female roommmate needed. January 2010 through August 2010. $540/month incl utility allowance for 4/4 apartment at The Woodlands. Flexible move-in dates. Expanded cable and internet included. No pets. Call 214-499-1999 to inquire. Roomate needed. 3/3.5 2-story duplex on bus route. $440/mo +1/3 utilities. Immediate move-in available. Stephen 361-876-7753. Share 2bd/1ba, 250/mo. All appliances included, 2.5 miles from campus. Call Bryan (832)723-6473 or Debi (979)268-3200. Utilities, cable, internet included. $395 Spring. Private bath, 1.5miles, bus, pool, volleyball, jacuzzi. 979-323-4253.
TRAVEL EUROPE 70 DAYS. Travel through 11 countries, summer or fall and see all the hotspots along the way. Utrekjourneys.com Starts at $10,950.
TUTORS Math tutor algebra through calculus. Over 45yrs. engineering experience. Grady (404)422-0989. 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 I buy broken iPhones/ iPods for parts. Water damage, cracked screens, or anything else. For cash offer, email mybrokeniphone@gmail.com
STUDIES IN PROGRESS DO YOU HAVE FACIAL ACNE? We are looking for volunteers to participate in a twelve-week research study of an investigational topical medication for acne. Those who qualify will receive at no cost: • Study related medical evaluations by a dermatologist • Study related medication • Reimbursement for time and travel, up to $250. Participants must be 12-45 years of age. For more information please contact:
www.AggieNetwork.com
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 www.js-studies.com
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comics/scene
page 8 friday 11.13.2009
thebattalion
Aggie Game-Day Special! Northgate 979-846-3600
Film offers hope
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HBO’s documentary “The Alzheimer’s Project” highlights the stories of individuals struggling with Alzheimer’s disease. The Texas A&M Health Science Center showed the four part series over a period of four weeks. While there is still no cure for the disease, the film leaves viewers with some much needed optimism in light of the disturbing reality experienced by the people it follows. Read a review of the film and information presented by A&M researchers at thebatt.com.
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Gorefest to raise money for Scotty’s House Lorelei Willett The Battalion Gorefest, a metal concert for all ages, will have its fifth annual festival Saturday in downtown Bryan. Gorefest will feature 16 bands and will raise funds for Scotty’s House, a nonprofit organization for abused children that lost more than $20,000 in government funding. Gorefest will run from noon to midnight Saturday at the Stafford, with tickets ranging in price from $5 - $15. “This is the first year it has been for a charity,” said Gorefest creator and promoter Cody Hancock. Scotty’s House was voted off of the list of names offered to citizens who could pick a charity to send their jury pay. Hancock said he remembered representatives from the nonprofit coming to speak to his high school class and was saddened when he heard about their loss of funds. He said he felt the festival could help. “A lot of what metal is about is abuse, like with bands like Korn,” Hancock said. “We thought it would be good for the victims to be benefited by the music that writes about them.” In high school, Hancock was inspired to start the event after friends put metal fests together in other parts of the state. Some do charity work such as Loudfest, which raises money to build skate parks. “We have music festivals here but I wanted metal to have one, because not a lot of bands play in this area and I wanted to give them more exposure,” Hancock said.
Local groups and bands from Houston and Dallas will be at the event. Some performances include a one-man act from Houston who calls himself Insidious Decrepancy and MSC Town Hall Battle of the Bands contestant Convicted of Treason. More than $1,000 worth of prizes will be raffled off, including gift certificates for Baskin Robbins, Cheddars and tattoo parlors.
Video Watch for clips of Gorefest band performances at thebatt.com. “I’m excited to see all the bands,” Hancock said. He said Gorefest usually happens around Halloween so people feel more comfortable and less intimidated. Many types of death metal bands come out for the occasion including ones that sing or ‘growl’ and others with political and religious stances. “For some bands, if you take one of the ‘Saw’ movies, that’s a death metal album right there,” Hancock said. “I’ve seen people walk out because they’re scared.” Hancock runs Aggieland Metal Productions with the help of his girlfriend, Cassie Hanks. Aggieland Metal Productions is a nonprofit company dedicated to helping the metal-rock music scene in the Bryan-College Station area. Hanks handles flyers and videos, while Hancock takes care of patrons. “She helps me not lose my sanity while I’m there to make her go insane,” Hancock said.
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Activation fee/line: $35. IMPORTANT CONSUMER INFORMATION: Subject to Customer Agmt and Calling Plan. Device capabilities: Add’l charges & conditions apply. Offers & coverage, varying by service, not available everywhere. Network details & coverage maps at verizonwireless.com. Rhapsody and the Rhapsody logo are trademarks and registered trademarks of RealNetworks, Inc. Tetris® & ©1985~2009 Tetris Holding, LLC. Game Technology ©2009 Electronic Arts Inc. EA and the EA logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Electronic Arts Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?™ and ©2009 JMBP, Inc. All Rights Reserved. All company names, trademarks, logos and copyrights not the property of Verizon Wireless are the property of their respective owners. All Rights Reserved. ©2009 Verizon Wireless VERSA
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