thebattalion the battalion
● monday, december 13, 2010 ● serving texas a&m since 1893 ● first paper free – additional copies $1 ● © 2010 student media
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Facebook reached 500,000,000 (that’s 500 million) users as of Wednesday, July 21, 2010.
Matt Woolbright, editor-in-chief of The Battalion The Battalion exists for the students of Texas A&M, and would not be what it is without your support and feedback for improvements. Thank you!
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Haitian earthquake
Class of 2012 • Whoop! • Piece o’ your mind Megan Ryan, managing editor of The Battalion 2010 has been a fantastic year to serve the Aggies. Make sure to keep us updated with events and news to help us spread the word! E-mail editor@ thebatt.com or battcopy@thebatt.com. Thanks, and gig ‘em!
Class of 2011 • Whoop!
January 12, 2010
Health Care Bill 2010 University Dining Services The 2012 meal plan was approved Sept. 9 by President R Bowen Loftin. Class of 2014 • Whoop! • Piece o’ your mind Sarah Smith, The Battalion The plan requires all freshmen living on-campus to purchase a meal plan of $1,200, solely in Dining Dollars due to a lack of funds required to sustain food quality.
March 2010
Icelandic volcano
Class of 2014 • Whoop!
Victoria Daugherty The Military Walk at Texas A&M was reopened on campus early this fall. Military walk is a large part of the history and spirit of tradition at A&M. Class of 2013
• Whoop! • Piece o’ your mind
Gov. Rick Perry “For generations, this path formed a vital artery across the campus and was well-worn by the tread of countless senior boots.”
Class of 1972 • Whoop! Dan Hughes Donated $4 million for restoration finances. “As you travel along this walk, may you follow in the footsteps of those who have gone before with...the intent to pave the way for future generations of Aggies who will take their own bold steps, walking this walk with integrity, dedication to excellence and commitment to selfless service.”
Class of 1951 • Whoop!
University of Missouri went from “in a relationship” to “it’s complicated” with Big 12 University of Colorado went from “it’s complicated” to “in a relationship” with PAC 10 Texas A&M University went from “in a relationship” to “in an open relationship” with SEC Nebraska is “in a relationship” with Big 10 Big 12 is “back together again” with everyone but NU and CU
April 14, 2010
More events on page 6 The Battalion is more than just editors, writers and artists. Special thanks to the following for their efforts.
Cheri Shipman, news adviser to The Battalion Robert Wegener, general manager of Student Media Naiyu Zhang, IT associate for The Battalion Liying Wang, webmaster for The Battalion Batt Advertising, department and advertisers
Pepsi-Cola Coca-Cola HA! suckers, we just contracted w/ A&M! :P ‘10 paces back • Whoop! • Piece o’ your mind • See Trailmates illmates
Jason Cook, vice president for marketing and communications “This agreement is financially advantageous to the University in comparison to the past.”
’12 paces back • Whoop!
Pepsi-Cola yeah, we offered to help students move into dorms in August, and we’re also helping with The Big Event in spring
Few paces back • Whoop!
More events Texas A&M © 2010
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Rebecca Bennett, Lifestyles •Dave Harris, Sports•Gayle Gabriel, City•Jill Beatherd, Enterprise•Andrew Evans, Graphics•Ian McPhail, Voices•Daniel Crump, Photo
12/12/10 8:18 PM
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Late night breakfast
Sbisa will be serving a late night breakfast from 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. today into Tuesday.
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Transit service
Visit http://transit.tamu. edu for more information about transit schedule changes.
3 Exam schedule Visit http://registrar. tamu.edu for ďŹ nal exam schedules.
Tuesday mostly sunny high: 66 low: 54 Wednesday breezy high: 75 low: 56 Thursday mostly sunny high: 70 low: 42
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Today sunny High: 58 | Low: 38 courtesy of NOAA
thebattalion 12.13.2010 For daily updates go to thebatt.com â—? Facebook â—? Twitter@thebattonline
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nation &world Moms, dads of gang kids ordered to parenting class
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Matt Woolbright, Editor in Chief Megan Ryan, Managing Editor Gayle Gabriel, City Editor Rebecca Bennett, Lifestyles Editor David Harris, Sports Editor CITY – Tim Bardin, Reginald Clark, Joyce Go, Paula Harman, Rebecca Hutchinson, Amber Jaura, Haley Lawson, Thomas Levitt, Stephanie Massey, Austin Meek, Luz Moreno-Luzano, Ty Petty, Joanna Raines, Katy Ralston, Sarah Smith, Connie Thompson, Katie White. LIFESTYLES – Matt Bizzell, Jennifer DuBose, Alec Goetz, Clay Harley, Ryan Haughey, Steven Olivier, Gabrielle Royal, Joe Terrell. SPORTS – Beau Holder, Kyle Cunningham, Sean Lester, Austin Meek, Courtney Nelson, Zach Pappas, Mike Teague, Alex Welch. OPINION – Matt Poarch, Carolyn Ward, Caleb Wilson, Taylor Wolken. WEBMASTER – Liying Wang.
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Humans and zombies “whooped� together Sunday afternoon, after the Humans won the second Humans vs. Zombies game of the semester.
LOS ANGELES — It’s a Saturday morning and a halfdozen adults are sitting in a high school classroom, staring at grim photos of sickly drug addicts and hearing about the deadly consequences of gang crime. They’d rather not be here, but a judge made them come. The moms and dads were ordered to attend the class under a new California law giving judges the option of sending parents for training when their kids are convicted of gang crimes for the ďŹ rst time. Assemblyman Tony Mendoza, the lawmaker behind the Parent Accountability Act, said it is the ďŹ rst state law to give judges the power to order parents of gang members to school, though other courtmandated classes exist at the local level. “A lot of parents do not know how to handle teenagers,â€? Mendoza said. “Now more than ever, parents need a guide.â€?
Paul Mezier — THE BATTALION
Missing NC woman found in Va. after 200mile walk FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — Authorities say a North Carolina woman reported missing in September walked 200 miles before she turned up at a Virginia shelter. The Fayetteville Observer reported that 56-year-old Wilma Edwards of Fayetteville turned up last week in Richmond, Va. Her information was found in a database of missing people, and she told authorities she hadWe traveled to the shelterto... make it easy on foot. Cumberland County sheriff’s spokeswoman Debbie Tanna said Edwards is known by many as “Miss Betty� and frequently takes long walks around Fayetteville with a white bucket that she sits on when she gets tired. Edwards had last been seen Sept. 19. Tanna said Edwards did not need medications and did not use her bank account during her disappearance. Her family says make itonce easy to... sheWe disappeared before, turning up in New York. Associated Press
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Zombie pep-rally
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‘Black Ops’ victor of video games
T
he candidates for the top game of the year were much more difficult to narrow down than I had expected, not because there was an enormous quantity of these games but because there happened to be a few great games in an array of categories.
Runners up for the best game of the impressed with the depth and intricacy year would include Assassin’s Creed: Brother- the game presented. Players assume the role of Alex Mason, a character that no hood for its deep and powerful combat longer sits by silently during the acsystem, Rock Band 3 for its use of actual tion. In fact, Mason has an actual instruments and Mafia 2 for its dim personality and helps the player and depressing view of the world understand his motivations and of crime. The winner, however, anguishes. Following Mason is none other than Call of Duty: through the mire and maze Black Ops. Black Ops is more of a convoluted war can keep than your average first person anyone interested for hours and shooter and brings to the table ready to replay the game after much more than was expected. Matt Bizzell the credits are done rolling. Black Ops throws the player Call of Duty has always been headfirst into America’s darkest freshman English major known for its online experience hour of the Vietnam and Cold and Black Ops is no different. Wars. You experience firsthand The multiplayer game play hasn’t changed the shadowy Special Forces operations and the battle that “never happened.” The story too much, except for the addition of COD itself is incredible. I found myself highly points and wager matches. These additions
Courtesy photo
allow players to buy perks and weapons without having to work through various stages of weapons they didn’t want to use in the first place. Remember that assault rifle you always wanted? Why not buy it once it unlocks instead of messing with lesser See Video games on page 4
b! thebattalion 12.13.2010 page3
best of Hear ye
PAGEMASTER
|for my last and final installment| |of Hear Ye| |ever| |we’re going to take a look| |at some of the best albums| |of 2010| fand one from 2008h
1. Sufjan Stevens “The Age of Adz” |a striking, interesting, careful blend of sounds, The Age of Adz is truly unique|
Top book choices of 2010
T
his is an article for those of us who still use reading as an escape, the few who intimately know the word “book” in college means more than your textbook. We are a dying breed, but 2010 provided a number of future literary classics. Joe Terrell sophomore Ultimately, for those very few of us, we telecommunication can rest easy knowing that literature is still media studies major alive and well, ever evolving in our present culture. Whether you prefer apocalyptic epics, controversial current events or inspiring stories of survival, 2010 definitely made sure that us bookworms have a lot to put on our Christmas list.
2. The Weakerthans “Live at the Burton Cummings Theatre” |an excellent live performance of a large chunk of this band’s fantastic repertoire| 3. Robert Randolph & The Family Band “We Walk This Road” |the world’s most innovative pedal steel player drives this joyful, gospelinfused compilation of songs |
Matterhorn by Karl Marlantes Atlantic Monthly, $24.95
4. JJ Grey & Mofro “Georgia Warehouse” |another mix of groovy jammers and soulful ballads from the fortunate collaboration of JJG&M|
A fiction release that deserves honorable mention is Matterhorn by Karl Marlantes. Matterhorn is a Vietnam War novel that has been more than 30 years in the making. Partially based on the author’s experience, the novel follows a new lieutenant dropped into a 13-month tour of the Quang-Tri province. Matterhorn reads more akin to The Things They Carried than a combat shoot-em-up, but still presents readers with a raw and unflinching look at the horrors of war. Courtesy photos
Mocking jay by Suzanne Collins
The Passage by Justin Cronin
Scholastic Press, $17.99
Ballantine Books, $27
Mockingjay is the final installment of the Hunger Games Trilogy by Suzanne Collins. While the young adult fiction market has been taken over by sentimental vampires and werewolves, The Hunger Games Trilogy represents a beacon of shining hope. Set in a futuristic dystopia where the provinces of the U.S. must each give up two “tributes” each year, teenagers must to fight to death on live TV. Mockingjay brings the story to an epic conclusion of revolution, death and redemption. A blend of satire, social critique and morality play, Mockingjay shows readers there are more intelligent things happening in young adult culture than Team Edward vs. Team Jacob.
My pick for best novel of the year is Justin Cronin’s The Passage. Set around the year 2017, The Passage opens with a vampiric super virus that escapes from a facility in Colorado, turning all those infected into vicious and intelligent creatures of the night. If the synopsis sounds like campy fiction, do not be fooled. Cronin creates a literary masterpiece filled with unforgettable characters, dramatic set pieces and heartbreaking loss, written in beautiful prose that brings to mind Cormac McCarthy crossed with Stephen King. At more than 700 pages, this is the type of novel you can get lost in for days. After a large portion of the principle cast is eliminated, Cronin jumps the narrative forward more than 100 years, introducing a whole new generation of characters living a primitive existence in a colony bunkered behind a defensive wall of high-powered lights, repelling the infected. But the batteries charging the centuries-old defensive system will soon fail. The Passage is not only the best book of the year; it’s also one of the best novels of the decade and easily one of the best horror novels of the past half-century. What makes it even better is the fact the Ridley Scott, director of Gladiator and Black Hawk Down, bought the film rights for $1.75 million.
Decision Points by George W. Bush
Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand
Random House, $35
Random House, $27
This was not only a big year for ambitious fiction; it also marked the release of some compelling nonfiction. Whether you love or hate him, the presidency of George W. Bush is one of the most compelling in history. In his memoir Decision Points, Bush reveals the truth behind his rebellious youth, relationships with his family and, ultimately, his controversial presidency. Bush never strays from the important issues that he knows the readers want answered, revealing that behind the caricature the media built around him, lays a deeply flawed yet intelligent and determined human being.
Unbroken is another nonfiction book garnering some national attention. Written by Seabiscuit author Laura Hillenbrand, Unbroken recounts the true story of World War II veteran Louie Zamperini, an Army Air Corps bombardier. After being shot down over the Pacific Ocean, Zamperini survived for days on a tiny raft beset by ravenous sharks, enemy submarines and Japanese air patrols. He is then captured and spends the next three years in a concentration camp. Unbroken is a powerful testament to the human spirit, written in an engaging style that holds the readers in.
5. First Aid Kit “The Big Black and Blue” |full of simple songs that will wrench your heart with their tender, intimate sadness| 6. Radiohead “Live in Praha” |Radiohead continues to stay ahead of the curve, offering complete footage of this live show for free download| 7. Jamey Johnson “The Guitar Song” |how about some good old sincere country in this age of freaky techno| 8. Ray LaMontagne & The Pariah Dogs “God Willin’ & the Creek Don’t Rise” |the full band is a nice addition to Lamontagne’s style, giving it a driving, roots-y feel| 9. Robert Plant “Band of Joy” |a mass of talent combines for this collection of beautifully arranged oldies| 10. Abigail Washburn & the Sparrow Quartet “Abigail Washburn & the Sparrow Quartet” |this is my favorite album| Buy them. |thanks & gig ‘em| charley
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weapons that will only burn through your valuable COD points? Players definitely have more versatility and customizations with the advent of face paint, gun camo and lens options. All the familiar game modes are back, but the wager matches are where the multiplayer truly shines. Modes such as “Gun Game� and “Sticks and Stones� add even more fun to shooting your friends in the face. If that wasn’t enough, you can bet on it too, earn more COD points by ranking high in the matches and buy more fun stuff to play with. My personal favorite is “One in the Chamber�; players are equipped with only a pistol and a knife and are set against each other in a free-for-all environment. Each bullet is an instant kill and the death of another player awards the killer with another bullet. Choosing to hoard your bullets by knifing enemies will ensure easy kills later in the match, while using every bullet you gain to kill the next guy keeps you in the front of the pack. The intensity of the game mode keeps players
on the edge of their seats with sweaty controllers, while participating in what can only be described as a knife slap fight with the final enemy on the map. Ultimately, the Black Ops experience is based on your play style. The important point to be made here is that the game will fit whatever play style you happen to possess, whether you enjoy the immersive storyline or the extreme environment of careening bullets in multiplayer, Black Ops will be for you. So stop reading, grab the game and play the best game of the year. Games that didn’t make it and why: Halo: Reach — I know I’m angering a lot of people here, but get over it, Reach was more of the same and if you disagree, you know what I look like. Red Dead Redemption — It was a great game, but it was a Grand Theft Auto clone, the expansion, Undead Nightmare almost took first over Black Ops, but it fails in variety. Bioshock 2 — It really was a year of sequels. Just add a “2� or “3� to games from a few years ago and you have the lineup. Bioshock didn’t make the cut because it disappointed the story expectations that rose from the first game. How can you top “Will you kindly�?
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Storm socks Midwest, cancels flights Sophia Tareen Associated Press CHICAGO — A powerful, gusty storm dumped mounds of snow across the upper Midwest on Sunday, closing major highways in several states, canceling more than 1,400 flights in Chicago and collapsing the roof of the Minnesota Vikings’ stadium. At least two weather-related deaths were reported as the storm system dropped nearly 2 feet of snow in parts of Minnesota and marched east. A blizzard warning was in effect Sunday for parts of eastern Iowa, southeastern Wisconsin, northwestern Illinois and northern Michigan, according to the National Weather Service. Surrounding areas, including Chicago, were under winter storm warnings. Much of Iowa was under a wind-chill advisory. In Minneapolis, the heavy snow left the Metrodome decidedly unready for some football. Video inside the stadium aired by Fox Sports showed the inflatable Teflon roof sagging before it tore open, dumping massive amounts of snow across one end of the playing field. No one was hurt but the Vikings’ game against the New York Giants had to be moved to Detroit’s Ford Field. The day of the game had already been pushed back from Sunday to Monday because the storm kept the Giants from reaching Minneapolis on time. Stadium officials were trying to repair the roof in time for the Vikings’ next home game, Dec. 20 against Chicago. The wintry weather, with blowing snow that severely limited visibility, wreaked havoc on air and road travel. In the Chicago area, wind gusts of up to 50 mph, temperatures in the teens and wind chills well below zero were expected, along with up to 8 inches of snow. More than 1,200 flights were canceled at O’Hare International Airport and more than 250 were canceled at Midway International Airport, Chicago Department of Aviation spokeswoman Karen Pride said. Both airports expected more cancellations and reported significant delays. Major highways in several states were closed due to poor driving conditions and accidents. In Indianapolis, police said a man fatally stabbed his wife, then died four blocks from his home Sunday morning when
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The collapsed roof of the Metrodome is shown in this aerial view in Minneapolis Sunday. The inflatable roof of the Metrodome collapsed Sunday after a snowstorm that dumped 17 inches on Minneapolis. his vehicle hit a tree after he lost control on a slippery road. Police did not immediately release the names of the couple. Illinois State Police closed a section of Interstate 80 in the north central part of the state after a multiple-car pileup west of Peru and part of Interstate 55 near Springfield after accidents and reports of zero visibility. No deaths were reported. Seven vehicles crashed on Interstate 94 about 50 miles west of Milwaukee, prompting authorities to close the westbound lanes. But Tod Pritchard of Wisconsin Emergency Management said there were no reports of fatal crashes in the state, partly because residents seemed to be heeding warnings to stay off the road. Pritchard said travel was expected to become even more difficult Sunday afternoon because temperatures were falling and at a certain point, road salt would no longer be effective. The storm had already dropped up to 18 inches of snow in parts of northern and central Wisconsin, he said, and light snow continued Sunday. Interstate 90 from Albert Lea, Minn., to Exit 410 in South Dakota reopened Sunday afternoon after being closed Saturday because blowing snow reduced visibility. Minnesota state highways also reopened, although transportation officials warned that many were still snow-compacted, icy and, in numerous cases, down to a single lane. In Iowa, Interstate 29 from the state line to Sioux Falls, S.D. remained closed, although
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other portions of it and Interstate 80 reopened. AAA-Michigan said it has been a busy day for its roadside assistance crews, with 850 calls from midnight through 12:30 p.m. Sunday. “A lot of cars in ditches, spinouts, dead batteries,� spokeswoman Nancy Cain said. “It’s really the first big blast of winter weather statewide.� Six people were injured Saturday when a van carrying 13 people hit a guardrail and overturned in Mecosta County, near Stanwood, Mich., in the north-central Lower Peninsula. Authorities said Sunday that weather played a role in the death of Douglas Munneke, 55, of St. Cloud, Minn. He died of a heart attack after collapsing while he was snow-blowing his driveway Saturday. The weather was an unexpected burden for a Minnesota man who had pledged to camp out on the roof of a coffee shop to help his daughter’s school raise money. Hospital executive Robert Stevens donned four layers of long underwear, heavy boots and a down coat before embarking on his quest Friday night. He had vowed not to come down until he had raised $100,000, but he reconsidered about 3 p.m. Saturday after high winds shredded his tent canopy. But Sunday morning, Stevens headed back up to brave the subzero wind-chills. He had only raised $54,000 and said if he didn’t get to his goal the school would likely close. “Mother Nature won out yesterday — but I’m looking for the win today,� Stevens said.
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12/12/10 4:49 PM
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Stephanie Massey Brig. Gen. Joe E. Ramirez, Jr. was selected as the 39th commandant of the Corps. Class of 2012
• Whoop! • Find more @ thebatt.com
Victoria Daugherty
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Bryan-College Station added variety to the cuisine front this year, nearly 10 new establishments. Class of 2011 • Whoop! • Find more @ thebatt.com
Katy Ralston A burn ban halted the burning of the 2010 student bonfire, but the other festivities went on as planned. Class of 2012 • Whoop! • Find more @ thebatt.com
Rebecca Hutchinson Fall semester 2011, the Office of Registrar will implement night classes Monday through Thursday to alleviate teaching cuts. Class of 2011 • Whoop! • Find more @ thebatt.com
Timothy Bardin Two new physics buildings, the George P. and Cynthia Woods Mitchell Institute for Fundamental Physics and Astronomy and the George P. Mitchell ‘40 Physics Building, were dedicated last December. Class of 2013 • Whoop! • Find more @ thebatt.com
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS and families are invited to
CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER December 24, 5:30 p.m.
Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church 1007 Krenek Tap Road College Station www.beautiful-savior.net Call 693-4514 for information or to request a ride
Timothy Bardin R. Bowen Loftin ’71 was installed as Texas A&M University’s 24th president on Sept. 24 during the 2010 Academic Invocation. Class of 2013 • Whoop! • Find more @ thebatt.com
Amber Jaura Texas A&M’s campus saw many changes and renovations in 2010, and more are on the horizon. Class of 2014 • Whoop! • Find more @ thebatt.com
Cotton Bowl Giveaway Papa Johns is giving away
2 ďŹ eld level suite tickets. Amber Jaura Texas A&M’s campus saw many changes and renovations in 2010, and more are on the horizon. Class of 2014 • Whoop! • Find more @ thebatt.com
Joanna Raines In August, China’s quickly growing economy finally passed Japan and became the world’s second largest economy, trailing only the United States.
Complete this information and bring in to either C.S. location for a chance to win with your purchase of a large pizza and coke. Name________________
Email_______________
Phone Number___________
Address______________
Offer good for carry-out or delivery (we will submit the entry for deliveries). Entries must be submitted by January 2, 2011. No limit on entries. No purchase necessary.
601 University Dr.
979-846-3600
1740 Rock Prairie Rd.
979-680-0508
Class of 2014 • Whoop! • Find more @ thebatt.com
Emily Villani Financial aid cuts are in store for some students, funds will be available in loans, but there will be fewer grants. Seventy-nine percent of A&M students have some financial aid. Class of 2014 • Whoop! • Find more @ thebatt.com
Ty Petty On September 28, sophomore math major Colton Tooley shattered students’ morning routines by opening fire on the University of Texas.
UT Shooting
http://www.TheBatt.com/ No students, other than the shooter, or emergency personnel sustained injuries in the incident. After the initial shot...
Come to Sbisa to study and refuel. We’ll be serving made-to-order breakfast in The Market. Just think of it as Mom’s kitchen.
OPEN: December 9, 12, 13, 14 11:00 pm - 2:00 am
Class of 2012 • Whoop! • Find more @ thebatt.com
$8.75 or a meal swipe
ÂŽ
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We make it easy to
news
thebattalion the battalion
page 6
monday 12.13.2010
See more @ thebatt.com
Major Events Full stories found online @ www.thebatt.com
Floods in Pakistan
Body scanners
July 2010
2010
Arizona immigration laws
Spain wins World Cup
July 28, 2010
Summer 2010
Proposition 8
Giants win World Series
August 4, 2010
Fall 2010
DREAM Act
Wiki leaks
2010
November 2010
Treat Those Close to You Right This Holiday!
CENARE
"VUIFOUJD *UBMJBO You don’t have to go to Italy.... Italy is here! At the most authentic Italian restaurant! Choose 1 Appetizer, 2 entrees and a dessert to share. All for only $25.00 Open for Lunch Mon-Fri 11 -2 Dinner Mon-Thurs 5 - 9:30 Fri 5 - 10 Sat 11-10 Sun 11-2 For reservations: (979) 696-7311 404 University Drive East Across from Fox & Hound
New Former
Student, you are invited to...
Tradition
The Next
C o n g ra t s ! Learn about being a new Former
Student.
You are about to be a Former Student! and friends andus join us after BringBring your your familyfamily and friends and join before or after 17, 2010 2009 to Commencement Convocation on Thursday, December 16,
Come get your Decal Enjoy cold drinks, door prizes and learn what The Association of Former Students can do for you!
Come here Clayton W. Williams, Jr. Alumni Center *Enjoy music, a chance to win door prize, and have your photo taken under the Haynes Ring Replica
Thursday
on this day
Dec
16
anytime between
&
to get this & find out about this. Tell the world who you are & show them how much you care. (And get a deal!)
Can’t join us on the 16th? We invite you to The Clayton W. Williams, Jr. Alumni Center on Friday, December 17th from 11:30 am to 6:00 pm or on Saturday, December 18th from 11:30 am to 5:30 pm Come have your photo taken under the Haynes Ring Replica!
Questions? Call 979.845.7514 or visit AggieNetwork.com/TheNextTradition
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sports
page 7 monday 12.13.2010
thebattalion
A semester of sport
Recapping a successful fall
File photos
Above left: The Aggie volleyball team celebrates an upset win over arch-rival Texas. Above right: The A&M soccer team wins the Big 12 Championship. Below left: Junior quarterback Ryan Tannehill’s season involved a position change. Below right: Senior “joker” Von Miller points to the Twelfth Man following a sack. By Kyle Cunningham | The Battalion As the semester draws to a close, it’s time to take a look back on Aggie sports thus far and the players that made it all possible. Volleyball The Aggies’ volleyball team lost Sarah Ammerman, Mary Batis, Jennifer Banse and Kristen Schevikhoven from last year’s 20-11 team that went to the Sweet 16. An injection of youth (six freshmen on the 2010 team) led to some growing pains as Head Coach Laurie Corbelli’s team finished 13-17 (7-13 in Big 12 play). Despite the first losing season since 2006, Texas A&M still found a way to display its talent as freshman setter Allie Sawatzky and senior outside hitter Kelsey Black both received All-Big 12 honors; Black was named to the First Team and
Sawatzky was named to the Freshman Team and Honorable Mention All-Big 12. Football Another award winner was senior “joker” Von Miller, whose 9.5 sacks and 14.5 tackles for loss propelled him to the Dick Butkus Award, given annually to the NCAA’s top linebacker. The award has never been won by an Aggie, and Miller is the first Big 12 linebacker to receive it since Derrick Johnson won it in 2004 with the Texas Longhorns. “As proud as I am of the football player he has become, I am even more proud of the man he has become,” Head Coach Mike Sherman said. “He has represented himself, his family, his team and Texas A&M impeccably.”
Miller led the defense to talks of a new Wrecking Crew as the Aggies finished the 2010 regular season with a 9-3 record (6-2 conference). In 12 games, the Aggie defense held seven opponents to 20 points or fewer. The football team finishes the season against LSU in the 75th Cotton Bowl at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington Jan. 7. Equestrian Texas A&M’s equestrian team has started the season at 6-0, winning four contests against Big 12 teams. The top-ranked Aggies have five meets in the spring semester before competing in the Varsity Equestrian National Championships in Waco. Soccer Coach G Guerreri and the Texas A&M soc-
cer team finished the season 15-5-3, but finished the year 0-2-3 and was bounced from the Minnesota regional after a 2-0 loss to the hosting Gophers. The team carried their academic weight, however, putting 10 players on the Academic All-Big 12 team. Basketball Gary Blair and Mark Turgeon have coached the women’s and men’s basketball teams to 8-1 records apiece. Senior forward Danielle Adams leads both teams in scoring with an average of 20.3 points per game, up four points per game from last season. Blair is looking for his sixth straight 20-win season, and Turgeon would be four-for-four if he finishes with 20 wins this season.
Aggies get to 8-1 with win over TCU Mike Teague The Battalion Texas A&M’s No. 7 women’s basketball team cruised to a 91-66 victory over TCU Sunday at Reed Arena. “The game played out like I expected it,” A&M Head Coach Gary Blair said. “I thought we played very well and we could have played with this energy against Duke but sometimes it’s hard to do that on the road.” Battling through illness, Aggies’ senior center Danielle Adams scored a career-high 33 points and added a team-high seven rebounds. Adams’
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presence made a huge difference for A&M, who lost at TCU last season while she was out with injury. “I had a concussion so I just went up there last year and sat on the bench,” Adams said. “Today, Coach Blair told me that I owe him a game because I didn’t play in the TCU game last year. I told him that this was his payback game from last year.” Adams knocked down 12-of-19 shots from the field, including three 3-pointers. Forcing the issue inside, Adams also sank 6-of-8 free throws. “We just ran our offense to perfection,” Adams said. “I tried to get a couple of outside shots but I saw those weren’t falling, so I just went inside. This is the best I’ve felt since I got here. I just feel lighter than when I first came here and can get up-anddown the court without getting tired or breathing heavy.” Senior guard Sydney Colson recorded her third career double-double for A&M with 10 points and 11 assists. Defensively, Colson had a game-high five steals from the Horned Frogs. “Colson was the key in the second half because she pushed tempo when there seemingly wasn’t anywhere to push it,” TCU Head Coach Jeff Mittie said. “She really delivered the ball where it needed to be delivered.” One of the biggest improvements shown by the Aggies Sunday was their rebounding. A&M out-rebounded TCU 39-24 and snagged 20 offensive
boards including 16 in the first half. “They weren’t boxing us out, so we just tried to get around them and get the offensive rebound,” Adams said. “That was the whole plan. We just tried to get the rebound as fast as we could.” The Aggies jumped out to a 37-19 lead with five minutes left in the first half, but let TCU get back into the game behind free throws and 3-pointers. Seven of TCU’s first half field goals came from behind the 3-point line. “They had an awesome shooting night and we just didn’t cover the people we knew were shooters,” Colson said. “That was our mistake. We just tried to come back out and limit three-point field goals because that’s something we take pride in. We don’t let people come out and hit a lot of threes.” TCU senior guard Emily Carter put her shooting skills on display, knocking down 7-of-11 from the field, including three from beyond the arc. Carter also pulled in a team-high seven rebounds. “Carter is one of the most improved players from a freshman to a senior that I’ve seen from the state of Texas,” Blair said. “She could play for anybody anywhere. She’s left-handed and we still couldn’t take it away.” After taking the rest of the week off, Texas A&M (8-1) will head to New York City for a match-up with Rutgers in the Maggie Dixon Classic Dec. 19.
ASSOCIATED PRESS
Above: Junior guard Sydney Carter defends during A&M’s 91-66 victory over TCU Sunday at Reed Arena. Left: Senior guard Maryann Baker tries to drive during the win.
12/12/10 6:05 PM
classifieds
thebattalion 12.13.2010 page8 PLACE
AN AD Phone 845-0569 or Fax 845-2678 The Grove, Bldg. #8901 Texas A&M University
ANNOUNCEMENTS Absolutely 1-Fun Defensive Driving! Ticket dismissal/ insurance discount. W&Th (6pm-9pm) or Sat (8am-2:30pm). Denny’s (near TAMU). $45 cash, $25 Special (w/purchase 2-food items). Restrictions apply. 979-694-8888. FOR A GOOD TIME . . . CLICK HERE www.lonestarcalendar.com UNDECLARED? Need direction? Concerned about switching majors that could cost you thousands? Find your passion and get the best start ever after graduation. Let a qualified Career Path Professional help you feel confident in your first job or career choice for less than the cost of one class. Schedule your 30 minute no charge phone consult today and get started before next semester! NB Careers- 830-237-2735 or shell@nbcareersnow.com
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 $1000/mo. sublease through August 2011. 3bd/2ba duplex on shuttle, fenced backyard, pets allowed. W/D, lawncare, pest control included. 512-921-1254. $1200 Prelease, short-term leases ok. 3bdrm/2ba. W/D, pets ok, near TAMU. Call Agent Ardi 979-422-5660. $295 Pre-lease. 1-room in shared, furnished apartment. All bills paid. Short term leases ok. Call agent Ardi 979-422-5660. $319/mo. 1bd/1ba., in Bryan. Furnished negotiable. Convenient to bus routes and campus. Available 12/15. 214-680-4501. $375 Pre-lease. 1/1, 2/1. Free Wi-Fi, on Northgate, on shuttle. Short term leases ok. Call agent Ardi 979-422-5660. $700/mo. sublease through May, 2bd/2ba 2 story apartment, great location close to campus, W/D, pets allowed, very nice, call Tony at 214-477-2009. 1 Bedroom efficiency for lease. $570/mo. Free tv and internet. Close to campus, on bus route. No deposit. 972-658-6153. 1312 Timm C.S., for Lease, short term or long term, $1350/mo, close to TAMU, 4bd/2b, newly remodeled, large fenced backyard, pets ok, 979-776-8984. 1bd/1ba in shared apartment at the gateway villas $350/mo. 817-774-8165. 2/1 CS duplex, available late December, pets allowed, privacy fenced backyard, ceiling fans and blinds, tile floors, W/D connections, E-Walk shuttle route, $625/mo 979.218.2995. 2bd/1ba apartment, 800sq.ft. New appliances, carpeting and tile. W/D. Bus route. $550/mo. +$300 deposit. Available on, or before January. 210-391-4106. 2bd/2ba 4-plex. Spacious floorplan, W/D connections, close to campus. $550/mo. www.aggielandleasing.com 979-776-6079. 3.5bd/2.5ba 2,700 sqft home for rent. $1250/mo. Semi-furnished, large 2-car garage. 361-815-4124.
WHEN
TO CALL 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday Insertion deadline: 1 p.m. prior business day
FOR RENT
SPECIAL
see ads at thebatt.com
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 RENT
FOR RENT
3/2 duplex. 5-minutes from campus, fenced yard, bus route, fairly new. Call 214-505-6534, 469-233-4653.
Country 3/2 double-wide, less than 2-miles from TAMU. $1000/mo. 979-220-6988.
3/2 fourplexes, close to campus, on bus route, W/D, newly renovated, very nice, must see. southwoodplace.com 979-822-3520.
Cozy 2bdrm/2bth condo 3-blocks from campus, yard, w/d connections, over 1000sqft., no HUD, updated, $565/mo., 506-B College Main 254-289-0585, 254-289-8200.
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
Duplex near campus. 2bd/2ba. W/D. No backyard. 307 Spruce. $695/month. Call 254-760-8242.
3/2/2 house, 1000 San Benito. Completely remodeled, large backyard and tile floors throughout. Available now $1100/mo. 979-450-3011. 3bd/1.5ba., completely remodeled house. Bike to A&M. $999/mo. until 8/11 (usually $1250). 300 Gilchrist. 979-693-5885 (Leave message). 3bd/2ba mobile home on cul-de-sac on Rolling-ridge M.H.P. All bills paid, $400/mo., furnished, W/D, Central air and heat, Cable, nice backyard. 210-288-5881. 3bd/2ba on Holleman. Large fenced yard. $1050/mo. Attached garage. 361-815-4124. 3bd/2ba., 2car-garage/2carport brick house. Walk to A&M. $999/mo. until 8/11 (usually $1250). 3905 Oak Lawn. 979-693-5885 (Leave message). 3bd/3ba duplexes. Great floorplans, fenced yards, W/D, tile floors, icemakers, alarm systems. 979-776-6079. www.aggielandleasing.com 3bd/3ba home, available December, Central air/heat, $1000/mo, 10 minutes from Vet School, 229-2408. 4/2 house, one acre. 2806 Leonard Rd. Available 1/1/11. $1200/mo. 979-450-3011. 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 4/4, 1863sqft and 1776sqft, 2612+2614 Mandi Court, brand new homes, $2000/mo, W/D, stainless steel appliances, near HYW 6 and TAMU, no pets, contact 210-315-9549. 4bd/2ba house. Close to campus, wood floors, tile floors, ceiling fans, W/D, fenced yards. 979-776-6079. www.aggielandleasing.com 4bd/4ba house, 3526 Wild Plum, refrigerator, W/D, huge backyard! $1,500/mo. 361-290-0430. 5/2, fenced, CA/CH, $1250/1000, available December 1st, 813 Enfield, 979-846-7679. garywolff@geodatapub.com
Female sublease needed for 1bd/1ba in 2bd/2ba apartment at The Trails at Wolf Pen Creek. $475/mo. plus half of utilities. Cable and Internet paid. On bus route 26, W/D. Available now through end of July. 254-931-1115. For Lease, short term or long term, $1350/mo, 1312 Timm C.S., close to TAMU, 4bd/2b, newly remodeled, large fenced backyard, pets ok, 979-776-8984. Horse Lover’s Dream! 3bdrm, minutes from A&M, 5 acres, $1395/mo, 4334 N.Grahm. 979-776-8984. Looking for male subleaser. $275/mo+ utilities, Jan-July. 1301 Glade Street. 903-563-4222. Looking for nice, neat, female roommate. 3bd/2.5ba home. $425/mo. Located less than 1mi from campus. Utilities not included. Call 979-574-1726. Newly Remodeled, for Lease, short term or long term, $1350/mo, 1312 Timm C.S., close to TAMU, 4bd/2b, large fenced backyard, pets ok, 979-776-8984. Northgate, Brand New, 2/2 apartment, and 3bdrm house walk to campus. 979-255-5648. Oak Creek Condos high-speed internet and basic cable. 2bdrm/1.5ba. $515/mo. Water, sewer, trash paid. Fireplace, icemaker, pool, hot-tub. 979-822-1616. 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. 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. $455/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 $495/mo. Spacious 3bd/2ba +bonus room. Manufactured home. Close to campus. On 3 acres. $1200/mo. Call 979-661-6857. Spring 2011 Sub-lease 2/2 duplex on University Oaks. Large, fenced backyard. Rent: $750. Call 979-220-9641 for more information.
AVAILABLE NOW FOR JANUARY, 2 Room in nice mobile home, central-air/ht, internet, cable. $300 and $375 everything included. 210-364-7006. Close to TAMU, for lease, short term or long term, $1350/mo, 1312 Timm C.S., 4bd/2b, newly remodeled, large fenced backyard, pets ok, 979-776-8984.
Cotton Bowl Ticket Giveaway
College Station Horse Lovers! 3 bedroom house on 5 acres. $1395/mo 979-776-8984.
601 University Dr.
(See Papa Johns ad on page 5 for details)
979-846-3600
1740 Rock Prairie Rd.
979-680-0508
Spacious studio apartment near campus, Sub-Lease for Spring semester. $495/mo., Cable and Internet ready, on-site laundry facility! Call 713-213-1959. Sub-lease Available January-August, 2bd/2ba apartment, full kitchen, W/D, nice pool, at the Zone. 281-380-1374 or 281-639-3383. Subleasing four-plex, 506 College Main, Apt D. Walking distance to campus and Northgate, female roommate. $297.50/mo. 2bd/2bth. 512-864-5562. Very nice 3/3 townhome, on bus route, fresh paint, and new carpet! All appliances included. $975/mo. Susan Sullens Realtor, BCR realty 218-1462. Walk to TAMU! 2bd/2bth/office, all appliances, W/D, spacious, newly remodeled, fenced townhouse. 979-846-1887.
FOR SALE 8.5ft pool table w/balls and sticks. Maroon felt. $900 O.B.O. 361-815-4124. Nice 3bd/2ba mobile home. Central air/heat. Cable and internet wired throughout. appliences included. 10x14 front porch. $24,000, 210-364-7006.
HELP WANTED 3rd or 4th year Mechanical Engineering student needed for 4-6 week assignment (Dec-Jan) with Genesis Engineering LLC, Houston, TX. Job will perform hydraulic modeling of crude oil pipelines. Will office out of Jersey Village location. Candidates should email resume to danny.mcrea@genlp.com Athletic men for calendars, books, etc. $100-$200/hr, up to $1000/day. No experience. 512-684-8296. photoguy@io.com Cheddar’s Casual Cafe and Fish Daddy’s on University Drive are now accepting applications for server and hostess. Come be a part of our friendly team! Apply in person. EOE. Child Care- FT & PT shifts available. Some nights & Saturdays required. Apply in person at 3609 E. 29th St., Bryan. CHRISTMAS $’S, students with nice cursive hand writing to address Xmas enveloped, 55cents per, email sample to rccproperties@aol.com Cleaning commercial buildings at night, M-F. Call 979-823-5031 for appointment. Coaches Wanted! We need enthusiastic, positive, motivational, volunteer coaches for Youth Basketball! Season begins early January 2010! Call 764-6222 or 764-3424. COLLEGE STUDENTS! Semester break work. 1-5wk work program. $17 base-appt. Flexible, conditions apply, all ages 17+. Call now! 979-260-4555. Helper on ranch wanted. Looking for caring assistant w/ranch background or TAMU vet student. Small ranch NW of Brenham, 30 min. to B/CS. Safe, organized, clean, environment. TAMU employee. AM/PM light work with horses, cows, and barn cats week days. Will pay with lodging or cash. Contact Linda evenings, 979-830-8020. Leave message.
HELP WANTED
ROOMMATES
Household cleaning, ironing, organizing help needed. Minimum 6-8 hrs/week $10/hr. Heavy detailed cleaning inside and out, year-round commitment necessary, begin work January 1. Fax bio/work info to 979-690-8075. Part time office assistant needed, 20 hours/week. Must be organized with good communication skills. Send resume to resume@equitybcs.com Part-time job helping handicapped. Male student preferred. $330/mo. 30-hours/mo. 979-846-3376. Part-time warehouse help needed. Flexible hours. Business hours are M-F 7:30-5. Apply at Valley Supply 3320 S. College Ave. Bryan, TX. 979-779-7042. Ranch hand needed for general ranch management in the BCS area. Successful candidate will facilitate, coordinate and manage all ranch activities and livestock and protect, preserve and enhance all ranch assets. Prefer individuals with prior ranch management experience. Pay is commensurate with experience. Pre-employment background check and drug screening required. Job reference 10-003bm. Send resumes to employment@bmidefense.com. EEO/Affirmative Action Employer. STUDENTPAYOUTS.COM Paid Survey Takers Needed In College Station. 100% Free To Join. Click On Surveys. Tony Roma’s Restaurant Now hiring for all positions at 980 N. Earl Rudder Fwy. in Bryan, TX. Looking for professional, friendly and passionate team members, ready to bring guest satisfaction to the next level. Please inquire with Manager on Duty in the work trailer located next to the Tony Roma’s Building or contact us at 979-731-RIBS(7427). Wanted: Part-time Administrative Assistant, M-Th, afternoons and evenings, immediate opening. 979-846-4988.
MUSIC
Female roommate needed for Z Islander apartment. Rent: NEGOTIABLE. Voted best place to live in Brazos Valley! Call: 832-233-0417. Free Internet, Cable, and Utilities! Looking for 1F fro the spring semester. Fully Furnished, bus route, pool, private room, w/d in unit. Only $400/month, no hidden costs. Call Christina at 512-557-0256. Male roommate needed for spring semester. 3 bed, 2 bath house built 2010 in Bryan off Finfeather. Just 5 minutes from west campus. W/D in house. Rent is just $302.50 +utilities. Call Myles at 817-648-8842. Male roommates wanted, 4bd/2.5bth house built 2006. One mile from campus, W/D, furnished, spacious backyard. Flexible lease, $300/mo. +utilities. Call/text Jonathan, 325-212-2824. 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. Roommate Needed. 4bd/3ba brand new house. $550/mo all bills paid. Female student preferred. Call Ashlee at 361-463-6613 for information. The Woodlands of CS sublease, 3bdrm/3bth, female roommate, 1/11-7/11, private bdrm/bth, W/D, $615/mo, bills included, 832-289-3714.
SERVICES Professional proofreading service. Email at proofread@wicksonwireless.com or call 979-589-3361. Sodolak’s Catering for your Christmas needs. Call Paul at 979-535-4089 or 979-229-4036.
TICKETS Cottonbowl tickets! Club section C109, row 4, 4 seats, $450/ea. Section 303, row 16, 6 seats, $300/ea. Bob 214-728-3002.
TUTORS
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
Online math tutor with reasonable rates. Skype, Yahoo. http://jimmiemathtutoring.blogspot.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
now on sale
WE’VE GOT YOUR NUMBER
PETS
2010-2011 Texas A&M University Campus Directory
Adopt Pets: Dogs, Cats, Puppies, Kittens, Many purebreds. Brazos Animal Shelter, 979-775-5755, www.brazosanimalshelter.org
Listings of departments, administrators, faculty, staff, students, and other information about A&M, plus yellow pages.
D
EPARTMENTS: If you ordered Campus Directories and requested delivery, delivery will be made within a 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.
Designer breed tea cup puppies: Maltese, Maltipoos, Yorkies, Poodles &Shih Tzus. $325 &up. 979-324-2866, linda_d_54@yahoo.com
Hours: 8:30 A.M.– 4:30 P.M. Monday–Friday. Call 845-2646 for info.
Yellow lab puppies born 10/18/10. Mother on site. No papers. $100. 979-774-7812.
ROOMMATES Female roommate needed for spring semester. 2bd/1.5bth nice condo, easy bike ride to campus, W/D, on bus route. $350/mo+ half utilities. 817-343-6184.
2/1 Houses, BIKE or WALK to TAMU. Hardwood floors, large yards. Pet friendly. $700/mo. Call 979-696-1444 Broker. Visit www.stalworthonline.com
BRYAN: 3/1.5 HOUSES OFF WOODVILLE, VAULTED CEILINGS, WALK-IN CLOSETS, FENCED YARDS, ALL APPL, W/D CONN! $775-795/MO 979.775.2291 www.twincityproperties.com
BRYAN: 2/1.5 NEWLY RENOVATED Midtown Manor Apts-DEC Pre-Lease AVAILABLE, ALL NEW EVERYTHING, Clothes Care Center & POOL! W/S, INTERNET, CABLE, GARBAGE PAID!! $525-$550/MO. 979-775-2291. www.twincityproperties.com
BRYAN: 2/1-2/1.5 APTS in HISTORICAL DISTRICT! COVERED PKNG, CLOTHES CARE CENTER! PAID W/S, INTERNET, CABLE, & GAS! $495-515/MO 979-775-2291 www.twincityproperties.com
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puzzle answers can be found online at www.thebatt.com
www.AggieNetwork.com
STUDIES IN PROGRESS ACNE STUDY Volunteers ages 12 and older, with facial acne are needed to participate in an 11 week clinical research study of an investigational topical medication. Eligible volunteers will receive: • Study Related Skin Assessments by a Dermatologist • Investigational Study Medication • Compensation up to $200.00 for time and travel For more information please contact:
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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
Putting the reason in the season
thebattalion 12.13.2010
I
n today’s society many people strive to be politically correct so as not to offend anyone. Can this practice be taken too far? Is it possible to try so hard not offend others that the subject at hand loses its meaning?
Christmas is a very special time of year for me as well as millions of others around the world, but this sacred holiday means something different to me than it does to many others. Christmas has become commercialized beyond the point of recognition and forgotten its heritage. Let us think back to the origins of Christmas. It began as a holiday to celebrate the Caroline Ward birth of Jesus, which took place more than junior communication 2000 years ago. No, Santa was not there with major a sled and reindeer. It was in the Middle East so it’s unlikely there was snow (sorry Frosty the Snowman) or pine trees. Ben Franklin wouldn’t come around for quite a few centuries so there were no colored twinkling lights. This scenario defined “humble beginnings.” Jesus was born in a barn with animals and essentially slept in a trough swaddled in rags. The only thing special about this night was the birth of Jesus, whose next 33 years would rock the world. I am proud of my faith and the holiday I choose to celebrate. Others celebrate Kwanzaa or Hanukkah. According to Holidays.net, Kwanzaa has been celebrated since the 1960s and is a celebration of African heritage, culture and a festival for a successful harvest. The seven-day event includes a candelabrum with seven candles symbolizing the seven principles of Kwanzaa (Unity, Self-determination, Collective Work and Responsibility, Collective Economics, Purpose, Creativity and Faith). Hanukkah is a holiday celebrated by Jews around the world. Judaism 101 states, “there was very little oil left that had not been defiled by the Greeks. Oil was needed for the menorah (candelabrum) in the Temple, which was supposed to burn throughout the night every night. There was only enough oil to burn for one day, yet miraculously, it burned for eight days, the time needed to prepare a fresh supply of oil for the menorah. An eight-day festival was declared to commemorate this miracle.” Notice that nobody attempts to change these holidays. Is anyone worried that the African aspect of Kwanzaa will offend those that don’t have African heritage? Hanukkah is not changed into a holiday of lighting candles without purpose or meaning while spinning a square top with funny-looking symbols on it. That would be ridiculous and offensive to those who practice these celebrations. These religions and others seem to have the freedom to worship and celebrate religious holidays exactly as they chose to do so, without fear of offending others who are not a part of their personal religion. Christians should also be given the freedom to celebrate their faith according to their beliefs without being pressured to water down Christmas. I am not suggesting that we stop decorating our houses or giving presents. There is nothing wrong with singing Christmas carols or putting up finely decorated trees, but let’s not leave the “Christ” aspect out of Christmas. Feel free to check out Luke 1 and 2 for the original meaning of Christmas. Let’s not leave the reason for the season out of our celebrating. “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:11.
Merry
page9
Christmas
Happy Holidays Taylor Wolken — THE BATTALION
GUESTCOLUMN
Students camping for bowl tickets left empty handed If you missed walking by Kyle Field this week, you missed an extravaganza. Before camping out was even formally supposed to begin Kaitlyn this past Tuesday at Dawson 5 p.m., hundreds of tents littered senior english the Zone. Students major looked like they were moving in permanently – I saw flat screen televisions, oversized couches, electric grills, air mattresses and Xboxes. Many even brought
their unfortunate pets, who shivered under fleece blankets and barked into the night. It rained the first night, and more than one tent blew over or collapsed completely. The second night it iced. We lined up at 6 a.m. on Thursday morning - the day before finals begin for most students. And yet for many, it was all done in vain. About an hour after the ticket box opened, the seated tickets for the Cotton Bowl were gone. I was next in line when the announcement was made that seated tickets were gone. Like many students, I showed up at 5 p.m. when camping out was supposed to begin. Much to my chagrin, my following the rules precluded me
from getting a seated ticket. According to popular conjecture, the lists were created at about 2 p.m., a full three hours before students were even supposed to be there. In a stadium that seats 80,000 people where A&M was given 12,500 tickets or 15.6 percent of seating, they chose to give 10 percent of ticket allotment to students (an additional 3700 tickets were sold to students for standing room only tickets). With a student body of 48,702 A&M allowed only 2.56 percent of its students the possibility to see their school playing in the highest-ranking Bowl we’ve had for years (it’s ironic that only 2 percent is allowed to go, given A&M’s concept
of the “two-percenter”). That may be standard procedure for most schools, but A&M prides itself on having a large percentage of its students attend games. With the Nebraska game, we set a NCAA record for highest student attendance with 30,467. Yet that mentality went right out the window as soon as we received a Bowl game. We became just like everyone else. But the problem is part of a much larger issue. Universities across the nation, Texas A&M included, are becoming less about students and more about funding, alumni, grants and research. The very population that A&M is supposed to serve is being forgotten or worse, ignored. Our
voice was ignored with the MSC. Our voice was ignored with the Grassy Knoll. Our voice was again ignored when A&M announced it plans to force on-campus students to buy a meal plan each semester. We might be a state-funded school, but it’s still our school. It’s not the administration’s, or the dean’s, the Alumni center’s, the Board of Education’s, the Texas legislature’s, or the Board of Directors’. When you watch the Aggies BTHO the LSU Tigers on Jan. 7, you probably won’t hear the student’s voices in Cowboy Stadium.Yet we should be the loudest voices of all.
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