EDITORNOTE This will be The Battalion’s final issue for the fall semester. Publication will resume for the spring semester Jan. 19.
thebattalion ● monday,
december 14, 2009
● Serving
Texas A&M since 1893
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As the decade comes to a close Numerous tragedies, a few miracles and two presidents, these past years shape our future Ann Littmann | The Battalion
President-elect Barack Obama and his family wave at the election night rally in Chicago.
T
he first decade of the 21st century will be remembered as a decade riddled with tragedy and uncertainty; yet out of the dismay, a new group of seniors is prepared to graduate and begin a new chapter in their lives. The decade began tragically with a day forever etched into the hearts and minds of Americans. On Sept. 11, 2001, terrorists hijacked four U.S. airplanes and crashed three planes into the Pentagon and the World Trade Center. The heroic passengers aboard the fourth plane prevented another devastating act of terrorism by crashing the plane into a Shanksville, Pa., cornfield.
Brooklyn firefighters raise a flag at the World Trade Center in New York Sept. 11, 2001 after hijackers crashed two airliners into the World Trade Center.
Residents are rescued from the flood waters of Hurricane Katrina Sept. 1, 2005.
Osama bin Laden is seen at an undisclosed location in this television image broadcast Oct. 7, 2001 praising God for the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
Traders work on the New York Stock Exchange floor Oct. 6, 2008.
Airline passengers wait to be rescued on the wings of a U.S. Airways Airbus that safely ditched into the waters of the Hudson River in New York.
Michael Jackson died June 25, 2009 before going on his tour.
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“I will always remember where I was when the World Trade Center was hit. It was my freshman year of high school, and it was my 14th birthday,” said senior English major Claire Flores. “I was sitting in Latin watching the news when the second plane hit. I was in geometry when the towers fell. I spent most of the afternoon in my mom’s classroom, she taught at my high school. I couldn’t believe that something so terrible was happening, especially since it was on my birthday.” The attacks also struck senior mechanical engineering major Kyle Richter into silence. “I was in eighth grade art when they announced over the intercom that the World Trade Centers had been hit,” Richter said. “I was scared for the future of the country, and those lost in the attack. This really has been a different world in the last decade because of the attack.” Soon after the attacks, former President George W. Bush declared war on terrorism and deployed troops, a decision later criticized by some. “When Bush announced we were sending troops to Iraq, at the time I thought it was a good idea,” Flores said. “I mean there was a sense of fear throughout the nation, and that needed to be controlled. The American people needed to know that we were safe, but things got a little out of control.” Flores remembered hearing on the news about the panic of Americans in the year following Sept. 11. “I remember hearing about all these American citizens that were from Iraq or Afghanistan that were being taken from their homes and questioned just because of their cultural background,” Flores said. “The only other time is has happened was after Pearl Harbor was attacked and the Japanese-Americans were put into camps on U.S. soil. It was devastating to watch a country fall apart because of fear.” The nation was united in sorrow again in 2003 when NASA’s Space Shuttle Columbia exploded upon reentry over Texas. The years continued on, plagued by three major hurricanes: Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Hurricane Rita in 2005 and Hurricane Ike in 2008. Hurricane Katrina was one of the five deadliest hurricanes in the history of the U.S., resulting in more than 1,800 known deaths. Hurricane Rita was the fourth “most intense” Atlantic hurricane recorded and cost $11.3 billion in damage on the U.S. Gulf Coast. Ike made landfall over Galveston on Sept. 13, 2008, as a Category 2 hurricane with Category 5 equivalent storm surges. Ike’s tremendous force devastated hundreds of students’ families, especially those of Texas A&M Galveston students. Flores remembered Reed Arena being transformed into an emergency evacuation site and the alarm of Aggies as they tried to contact their families to discover the extent of the damage. Yet with all of the heartbreak this decade experienced, it also saw progress. The first female speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, was sworn into office in 2007. History was made again in 2008 when Barack Obama was elected as the 44th president of the U.S. as the first African-American president in the country’s history. Obama’s administration was met with a troubled economy, with which America is still struggling. With the economy in a troubled state, Aggies are hard-pressed finding jobs. “I was always told that Aggies never have trouble finding jobs, but this year my graduating friends found it extremely difficult to find full time offers,” Richter said. “I consider myself lucky to be on the five-year track.” Yet, despite the uncertainty of the future, many Aggie seniors are viewing graduation not as the end of an era, but as the beginning of a remarkable journey. “I am very ready for graduation. I have never been more ready for anything in my whole life. Everyone keeps talking about how scary it is, and yes that is true, but it is so exciting at the same time,” Flores said. “I am about to embark on a new adventure, the next chapter in my life and that makes me excited.” As graduating Aggies prepare to face the new decade, they will forever treasure their days at Texas A&M, Richter said. “My entire experience has been made wonderful by the people that I have come into contact with,” Richter said. “Texas Aggies as a whole are caring, humble and fun people. I will miss them all.” Senior industrial engineering major Laura Waygood said she will never forget the spirit that embodies Aggieland. She said it is engraved in every student and will continue to live on even when Aggies depart from College Station. “I have so many memories from my four and a half years at A&M. I have been blessed to have an amazing group of friends that I have acquired through numerous organizations. I will remember the things we did as Aggies. We went to practically every football game together and experienced all the exciting aspects of ring day, ring dunks, midnight yell, bonfire and Elephant Walk,” Flores said. “I will never forget the friendships that I have formed at this University, and I think that is the thing I will most remember about this school.” “I will never forget how much I have changed and matured in these four and a half years, or the people that have been by my side through it all. I am sad to be walking the stage and graduating from this great University, but I will continue to take the Aggie Spirit with me wherever I go and remember all the wonderful times that I have had as a student at Texas A&M University,” Flores said. Richter said he will never forget the emotion when he first stepped onto the campus. “I remember walking onto campus for the first time somewhere in 2005 and getting the feeling that I whole-heartedly belonged here,” Richter said. “Something about starting a new chapter in my life with a place that I knew would completely fall in love with. God made me to be a Fightin’ Texas Aggie, and the day I realized that is a day I will never forget.” Waygood’s said her most memorable moment of the decade was the untimely death of Michael Jackson. “My favorite memory is the whole college experience of Texas A&M. It is here that I became self-sufficient and independent. Also, I could never forget all the amazing people I’ve met and the opportunities I’ve had,” Waygood said. “My favorite moments encompass the time from when I got my acceptance letter from Texas A&M to the day I finally received my Aggie Ring.”
President-elect Bush meets with Vice President Al Gore at Gore’s official residence in Washington.
Pope John Paul II’s body begins its journey from the Apostolic Palace to St. Peter’s Basilica for public viewing April 4, 2005.
Iraqi civilians and U.S. soldiers pull down a statue of Saddam Hussein in down Baghdad April 9, 2003.
Fire destroys homes along the beach on Galveston Island, Texas as Hurricane Ike approaches Sept. 12, 2008.
A student is carried out of a Virginia Tech dorm after a shooting incident April 16, 2007.
Debris from the space shuttle Columbia streaks across the sky over Tyler, Texas Feb. 1, 2003.
North Korean leader Kim Jong II poses with the soldiers of Korean People’s Army 821 unit early April 2006. AP PHOTOS
12/13/09 10:36 PM
Today 50% chance of showers High: 71 Low: 49
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS and families are invited to
courtesy of NOAA
CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER December 24, 5:30 p.m.
Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church
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Tuesday 20% chance of rain high: 56 low: 36 Wednesday mostly sunny high: 57 low: 35 Thursday mostly sunny high: 63 low: 36
pagetwo thebattalion 12.14.2009
1007 Krenek Tap Road College Station www.beautiful-savior.net Call 693-4514 for information or to request a ride
Nobel laureate to speak at graduation
Where on campus? Herschbach
Last week’s answer Military Sciences Building Correct responses Michael Andres, junior management major
I N V E N T YO U RS E L F
Mike Bond, senior sport management major Ariel Clay, freshman meteorology major Kevin Gillespie, sophomore computer engineering major
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Brandon Johnsen, freshman computer science major Kris Keiser, freshman physics major Hyung Jin Kim, doctoral student in urban and regional science Erika Lopez, junior nutrition science major Austin Massad, freshman physics major Brooke Pawelek, sophomore general studies major Carl Williford III, senior petroleum engineering major
Audit Dates: Dec 14 - Feb 8ÊÊUÊÊOrder Dates: Jan 11 - Feb 10
Aggie Ring Day: April 16, 2010
Jeremy Northum — THE BATTALION
Director of the Chabad Jewish Student Center Rabbi Yossi Lazaroff lights the third candle of a 13-foot tall Menorah in Academic Plaza Sunday. A Menorah lighting ceremony will be at 5 p.m. today.
Menorah lighting set for today In celebration of Hanukkah, the Chabad Jewish Student Group will light the Menorah in the Academic Plaza in front of the Sul Ross statue. “We are going to be having donut eating contests and Hanukkah games leading up to the Menorah lighting,” said the director of the Chabad Jewish Student Group Rabbi Yossi Lazaroff. “We will be lighting on the fourth night of Hanukkah, so we will be lighting four branches on the Menorah.” The Jewish community lights the Menorah in celebration the victory of the Jewish Maccabees over the Greek-Syrian Army despite incredible odds, Lazaroff said. “It is a story of religious freedom. The SyrianGreeks would not allow the Jewish people to practice their religion or culture,” Lazaroff said. “Instead, they wanted them to assimilate and outlawed main aspects of the Jewish religion and so a group of Macabees raised their small Jewish army and fought against the Greeks and won, even though the Greeks were a bigger army.” After their victory, Jews gathered at the Temple in Jerusalem to light the Menorah but saw that it was defiled and desecrated. “They couldn’t find any oil that had the seal of the high priest signifying his blessing,” Lazaroff said. “They finally found one jug which they thought would only light the Menorah for one night, but it lasted for eight nights which is how long it took for them to get more oil. Hanukkah celebrates this miracle.” Ann Littmann, staff writer
If you go What: Menorah lighting When: 5 p.m. today Where: Academic Plaza The director of the Chabad Jewish Student Group said the celebration is not limited the Jewish student population. “The Menorah is an expression of diversity on campus and a symbol of religious freedom symbol for students on campus of all religions,” he said. The Menorah is also a source of Aggie pride. “Our Menorah is 4 feet taller than the Menorah at T.U. and we are very proud of that fact.”
December 2010 graduates, families and friends will have the honor of listening to renowned scholar and Nobel Laureate Dudley Herschbach at the commencement convocation at 5:30 p.m. Thursday in Rudder Theater. Herschbach won the 1986 Nobel Prize in chemistry for his advances in research of chemical elementary processes Herschbach received his bachelor’s degree in mathematics and a master’s degree in chemistry from Stanford University. Herschbach joined the faculty in the Texas A&M Department of Physics and Chemistry in fall 2005. He earned a doctorate degree in chemical physics from Harvard University in 1958. He taught at the University of California at Berkley from 1958 to 1963, and returned to his alma mater of Harvard. While teaching at Harvard, he served as a visiting professor to students in the country and abroad. Melissa Appel, staff writer
HOW TO GET YOUR AGGIE RING ON APRIL 16, 2010: If you meet the requirements after Fall '09:
thebattalion
1. Submit an Aggie Ring audit online at www.AggieNetwork.com/Ring beginning December 14, 2009. 2. Check the status of your Aggie Ring audit online at www.AggieNetwork.com/Ring once your audit has been reviewed. Ê ÊÊ UÊ Êi > ÊÜ ÊLiÊÃi ÌÊÌ ÊÞ ÕÊ ViÊÞ ÕÀÊÀiÛ iÜÊ ÃÊV « iÌi°Ê Ê ÊÊ UÊ vÊÞ ÕÊ` Ê ÌÊÀiVi ÛiÊ> Êi > ]ÊÞ ÕÊÜ Ê ii`ÊÌ ÊV iV ÊÞ ÕÀÊ>Õ` ÌÊ status online no later then February 9, 2010. Ê ÊÊ UÊ vʵÕ> v i`]ÊÞ ÕÊÜ ÊLiÊ>Ãà } i`Ê`>ÌiÃÊÌ Ê À`iÀÊÞ ÕÀÊ }} iÊ, }° 3. Order your Aggie Ring during the assigned dates.
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Amanda Casanova, Editor in Chief
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Ê ÊÊ UÊFull payment is due at time of order. Pricing is available online. Ê ÊÊ UÊRing loans are available to qualified, currently enrolled students at the Short Term Loan Office. Submit your application online at http://financialaid.tamu.edu or call 845-3955 for further details. Please complete your Ring audit before applying for a Ring loan. Ê ÊÊ UÊIf you are unable to order in person during your assigned dates, you may order on another day prior to the order deadline, February 10, 2010, or complete an order form found at http://www.aggienetwork.com/ring/cs_ringform.pdf
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THE BATTALION (ISSN #1055-4726) is published daily, Monday through Friday during the fall and spring semesters and Monday through Thursday during the summer session (except University holidays and exam periods) at Texas A&M University. Periodicals Postage Paid at College Station, TX 77840. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Battalion, Texas A&M University, 1111 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843-1111. News: The Battalion news department is managed by students at Texas A&M University in Student Media, a unit of the Division of Student Affairs. News offices are in The Grove, Bldg. 8901. Newsroom phone: 979-845-3313; Fax: 979-845-2647; E-mail: metro@thebatt.com; website: http://www.thebatt.com. Advertising: Publication of advertising does not imply sponsorship or endorsement by The Battalion. For campus, local, and national display advertising, call 979-845-2696. For classified advertising, call 979-845-0569. Advertising offices are in The Grove, Bldg. 8901, and office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Fax: 979-845-2678. Subscriptions: A part of the Student Services Fee entitles each Texas A&M student to pick up a single copy of The Battalion. First copy free, additional copies $1. Mail subscriptions are $125 per school year. To charge by Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express, call 979-845-2613.
- Mail or fax orders must be received by the Aggie Ring Program by February 10, 2010. - Please contact the Aggie Ring Program at (979) 845-1050 to confirm we have received your order. UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT REQUIREMENTS: 1. 90 cumulative completed undergraduate credit hours. 2. 45 undergraduate resident credit hours completed at TAMU. 3. 2.0 cumulative GPR at Texas A&M University. 4. Must not be on academic probation, suspension, dismissal, expulsion, or on honor violation probation from the university. GRADUATE STUDENT REQUIREMENTS: Master’s Thesis Option 1. Defended Thesis Due to ordering deadlines, you may order at the beginning of the semester you will graduate. Your Aggie Ring will be delivered on Aggie Ring Day if you have defended your thesis prior to the deadline set by the Office of Graduate Studies. If you do not defend your thesis prior to this date, your Aggie Ring will be held until the qualification is met. 2. Must not be on academic probation, suspension, dismissal, expulsion, or on honor violation probation from the university. Master’s Non-Thesis Option 1. 75% of coursework completed for degree program at TAMU. 2. Must not be on academic probation, suspension, dismissal, expulsion, or on honor violation probation from the university. Ph.D. Students 1. Accepted as a Ph.D. candidate at TAMU 2. Must not be on academic probation, suspension, dismissal, expulsion, or on honor violation probation from the university.
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Pg. 2-12.14.09.indd 1
12/13/09 8:37 PM
Humans vs. Zombies
scene Meet me under the mistletoe
The final Humans vs. Zombies mission was Sunday, in which the Humans team attempted to hold a base at the steps of the Academic Building. Photo slideshow at thebatt.com.
thebattalion 12.14.2009 page3
Hear ye |right now…| |i’m awfully giddy| |my legs are a-bouncin’| |and i’d like to get jacked up| |on Monster and/or coffee| |so let’s get pumped| |and by pumped, i mean psyched|
and by psyched, i mean stand up in your cars
1. Sonny Landreth “Taylor’s Rock” |wowee|
2. Galactic “Black Eyed Pea” |is’ da drums!|
3. Coldplay “Fix You”
|coldplay skeptics, put the hate aside|
for now
4. Elton John “Honky Cat” |standard|
Osa Okundaye — THE BATTALION
5. Arcade Fire “Wake-Up” |yup, from “Wild Things”|
Lorelei Willett The Battalion
T
hough many enjoy the benefits that come with a sprig of mistletoe over a doorway, the Christmas tradition of kissing under this parasitic plant of the oak tree is fairly new. Anthropology professors Vaughn M. Bryant and Sylvia Grider, now retired, researched the history of the mistletoe plant, kissing and how the two have come together into a holiday tradition. In their article, “To Kiss: Why We Kiss under the Mistletoe at Christmas,” Bryant and Grider delve into ancient Celtic and Roman texts to uncover the question posed by their introductory folklore classes, where did this tradition come from? Bryant and Grider began with the Celts and the Druids, priest-like people who oversaw religious activities. After the conquest of Europe by the Romans, Roman leaders and scholars wrote about Druid practices and the importance of the oak tree and mistletoe. Pliny the Elder wrote that the Druids revered the oak as the most sacred of trees and believed that powerful spirits resided in its wood. The Druids would tap on the trees to awaken the spirits and ask for good luck, hence the phrase, “knock on wood.” “Roman historians noted that each year, around
Pg. 3-12.14.09.indd 1
November, the Druids presided over the winter celebration of Samhain, which has evolved into our Halloween. By then, the sacred oaks were barren except for the green boughs of mistletoe growing from branches, a sign, the Druids believed, of eternal fertility,” Bryant said. Mistletoe was believed to heal diseases, make poisons harmless, bring fertility to childless women, protect against evil spells and bring the blessings of the gods. The Celts would carry a sprig of it or place it above the doorway to their houses, and when they met under the plant, the Celts were required to greet each other in friendship. “Even after they had been conquered by the Roman legions and, later, after their conversion to Christianity, the Celts retained their winter custom of suspending mistletoe above a doorway, as a token of love and peace,” Bryant and Grider said in the article. However, there is no evidence the Celts kissed under the mistletoe, nor is there any evidence to support that the European cultures knew anything of the practice of kissing. Kissing probably originated in India with the practice of “pressing and rubbing noses together” as a sign of affection between lovers as described in the Vedic Sanskrit texts. Then with the spread of Al-
exander the Great’s empire into India, the evolved practice of lip kissing became a part of Greek and Roman culture and encompassed into later Christian customs. “Yet, exactly when Christians began kissing under the mistletoe remains a mystery,” Bryant said. The hypothesis that kissing under the mistletoe began during the early medieval period in areas of Europe where the influence of ancient Celtic customs remained strong is supported by Bryant and Grider’s findings of three cultural beliefs — the Celtic belief that the mistletoe plant had magical powers, the Roman custom of kissing to seal a betrothal and the Christian custom of marriage being more important than the engagement, all blended together to form this yuletide tradition. “It was believed that a kiss under the mistletoe was a serious commitment and not to be taken lightly. Such kisses were seen as the physical expression of an eternal love to one another and more importantly, a promise of marriage,” Bryant and Grider said in the article. With time came a slow relaxing of the strong commitments associated with this tradition and eventually, mistletoe kisses became viewed as part of the joyous celebration of the Christmas season.
6. The Early November “Baby Blue” |pump your fist till you get a cramp|
7. Mae “Goodbye, Goodnight” |probably make up a dance of sorts|
8. Taking Back Sunday “You Know How I Do” |how DO you do?|
9. Yellowcard “October Nights” |you’ll want to hang on to this one|
10. Punchline “Weekends” |it almost is the weekend|
for me
Buy them. |well that turned punk real quick| charley
12/13/09 10:41 PM
scene
page 4
Good thing he has a meal plan.
Jim burns 7400 calories a day.
monday 12.14.2009
thebattalion
Storytime in Rudder Clay Harley
Garrison Keillor touched Rudder audience with distinctive voice and compelling stories based on real people
UNIVERSITY DINING
Good thing she has a meal plan.
with ease and grace, one leading to the next, another worked inside the first, all the while relating one to another through their meanings. Keillor began by speaking about where he now lives, New York, and continued on to tell about many of his relatives, who are often the subjects of his stories, about his time in the hospital and about the people from his hometown. It is important and interesting to note that much of what Keillor said is made up. His stories are indeed, stories. Most of them are based on real people or events, but he enhances many of the details, and fabricates some altogether. So why don’t we write him off as a liar? It is because the aspects of these stories that make them relevant to us are fully realized — truth of the human experience, fullness of emotion, hope for the future and love for one another. It is concepts like these visible through Keillor’s stories, and a large part of what made his performance great. The other part of Keillor’s success Tuesday night
was due to his skill and expertise. The act itself was well-crafted and it featured a wide variety of material. Most of it was of course storytelling, but he found ways to work in poems, songs and audience participation. Mentionable were a funny poem he had written about urination, a recitation of Poe’s “Annabel Lee,” and two verses of “Silent Night,” which he got the audience to sing along. The entire performance was done without notes, scripts or any sort of gimmick at all. The only props were a stool and a microphone. Keillor fully lived up to his reputation as a prominent American storyteller Tuesday, and delivered a high-quality performance, and one I will surely remember.
4 out of 4 gig ’ems Clay Harley is a senior management information systems major.
Shwayze to perform in Texas cities Clay Harley
T
he rock ’n’ roll and rap duo Shwayze, from Malibu, Calif. has gained considerable recognition in its short history, and continues to grow. Shwayze is traveling on the Party Rock tour and will be performing in Houston, Dallas and San Antonio on Dec. 17, 18 and 19, respectively. Here is what members Aaron Smith (a.k.a. Shwayze) and Cisco Adler had to say about their music and about the band. Question Tell me a little about your newest album, “Let It Beat.” Shwayze “Let It Beat” is our sophomore effort. The first record we made was also the first time we ever made music together, so we were kind of just discovering our sound and our fan base and all that. So for us to come in and make a second record, it was great. We tried to take as much as we could from the first record and everything we learned from that year of touring and incorporate it in the second one. We had a couple great features [on this record], some dreams come true. We had Snoop Dogg on a track, and we had Ric Ocasek from the Cars co-produce and sing and play some guitar on a track. So that right there in itself kind of shows you our musical spectrum.
one and their business. So we kind of knew each other just as acquaintances. I heard that he did music, but I never really saw him play until he got and free styled at one of my old band’s shows, so then I knew he could rock a mic. Based on him being very persistent and telling me he wanted to get in the studio, eventually we did, and it just worked. When I met him I was thinking of producing him as a solo rap artist, strictly hip-hop. And then a couple songs in, I started singing the hubs, and we found this style that we thought was unique and original, and it’s hard to copy. Question How does the writing work? Cisco I write all the music and make the tracks. I’m one half of the artist, but I’m also the producer, so I have to wear that hat at times and produce his vocals and sort of steer everything in the right direction. We write the raps together,
and I try to steer them towards writing a good song with classic song structure. So it’s not just a rapper rapping at you, it’s a sentiment or an emotion being laid out in song. Question What are your live shows like – what can people expect from a Shwayze show? Shwayze We pride ourselves on our live shows. We really try to incorporate the live musicianship mixed with just a really good hyped live show. Our boy Mark Schmidt plays keys, bass, guitar, and timbale drums live, and then we have our DJ Jason Smith. And Cisco and I are the front men. It’s a very musical show, very high energy, and there are always a lot of pretty girls. Cisco It’s dynamic in that it builds, and ebbs and flows, whereas a lot of hip-hop is just a track and three dudes with mics. [With us] you definitely won’t get the same thing every time. Question Does free styling play a role in your live shows? Shwayze We do this cover of “Forever” by Drake, Lil’ Wayne and Eminem and every night I do a little freestyle involving some topics of the city to get the crowd hyped and know that we’re doing something special for them. Question Shwayze has gained a lot
of attention from fans in its short history; what has been your reaction to the success you’ve had so far? Shwayze It’s beautiful, a dream come true, and unexpected. We try to be honest in our music, and I think kids connect to that; they’re part of the lifestyle. I think it’s great, and that’s why we were so happy to make this next record, it’s a continuation. It’s chapter two in a book that’s really big. Cisco It’s amazing, you know? It’s incredible when something you do as a labor of love gets accepted by that many people, and it pays off. Question What’s in the future for Shwayze? Shwayze Just a lot of touring and playing in a lot of places we haven’t played yet and really promoting the record. And we actually have a movie in the works; it’s being written right now. The acting is just another tier, because we want to explore everything. So we’ll probably make a soundtrack to the movie. We’re just trying to keep it going; we will keep it going. Cisco We’re doing a web TV show which may turn into another television show, so it can sort of be the uncensored version of our Buzzin’ TV show. And we’re going to make many more records. Anything and everything music related.
Good thing he has a meal plan.
Question How did you guys meet and start making music together? Cisco Well Malibu’s a small town, so everybody pretty much knows every-
Andrew is carrying 18 hours.
Jeremy Northum — THE BATTALION
Humorist, storyteller and host of the NPR radio show “A Prairie Home Companion,” Garrison Keillor performs Tuesday in Rudder Auditorium in the MSC OPAS event “An Evening with Garrison Keillor.”
The Battalion ®
dining.tamu.edu
Sign-up for your 2010 Spring meal plan
Good thing he has a meal plan.
Joe hatsestotocook. cook.
Satisfy your Hunger!
ic eater. Cindy is a pciky
A
fter a quick dimming and re-illuminating of the house lights, the voice of the evening’s announcer sounded over the loudspeaker in Rudder Auditorium and briefly explained the theater policies and rules. Then, simply: “Ladies and gentlemen, Garrison Keillor.” The 67-year-old American author and storyteller strolled across the stage to a rousing applause, sporting a black suit, red tie and red sneakers and socks. He thanked the audience, and then promptly broke into song. For what had to be about five minutes, Keillor sang verse after verse, a cappella, of a song that was like a train of thought strung together — in it he addressed everything from the existence of God, to the beautiful girl whose head he used to sing to the back of in children’s choir, to a story of two lovers in the sky. Over the next 100 or so minutes, Keillor continued to share with the audience thoughts, stories, songs and poems, stimulating listeners’ intellect, connecting to their hearts and very often, making them laugh. The first thing you will notice about Keillor is his voice — it’s absolutely perfect for storytelling. This voice could make a dictionary sound like a novel. Its smooth, comforting, almost hypnotizing quality is delightful and invites you in to listen. Had Keillor been an unskilled, uninteresting storyteller, he may have still had a chance in the business, just because of his distinctive voice. Luckily, though, when it comes to storytelling, Keillor is among the best. His stories are interesting, wide-ranging and well-crafted. They reflect the insight of a man who has clearly thought often and deeply about things of this world. And in his performance in Rudder, he weaved his tales together
Pg. 4-12.14.09.indd 1
12/13/09 10:14 PM
sports thebattalion 12.14.2009 page5
Aggies downed by New Mexico Kyle Cunningham The Battalion
ASSOCIATED PRESS
Texas A&M players and Head Coach Mark Turgeon watch from the bench in the last minutes of the Aggies’ 84-81 loss to New Mexico on Saturday in Houston.
After its second loss of the 2009-2010 season Saturday in the Toyota Center in Houston, the Texas A&M men’s basketball team is looking forward to the rest of the season. New Mexico ran its way to a 40-29 lead at halftime and never relinquished it, despite the best efforts of senior guard Donald Sloan, who posted 29 points and the rest of the Aggies in the Toyota Center. When the final horn went off, the Lobos escaped with an 84-81 upset of the No. 16 Aggies The loss to New Mexico breaks the A&M winning streak that started on Nov. 29 and spanned four games, including a win over a ranked Minnesota team. “I thought New Mexico was great,” A&M Head Coach Mark Turgeon said. “New Mexico just made more plays down the stretch, and we couldn’t quite catch them.” The Lobos took the lead in the first 40 seconds after a Darrington Hobson 3-pointer, then never gave it up. “We haven’t been behind a lot, so that’s a new situation that we’ll learn from as coaches and players,” Turgeon said. New Mexico was ahead by 17 points with just 10 minutes remaining but had to fight off an Aggie surge in the closing minutes of the game. A 3-pointer by Sloan brought the game to 80-78 with 30 seconds left to play. “We were as bad as we could be for 28 minutes,” Turgeon said. “Then we decided to play and show a little effort
“
I thought New Mexico was great. New Mexico just made more plays down the stretch, and we couldn’t quite catch them.” — Mark Turgeon Texas A&M head coach
down the stretch. Just couldn’t get over the hump.” The points that sealed the deal came from sophomore forward A.J. Hardeman, who hit two free throws with 16.7 seconds left in the contest. The loss drops A&M to 8-2 on the season, while undefeated New Mexico picked up its tenth win. It’s the first time the Lobos have been 10-0 since the 1995-1996 season. Texas A&M will play two more matchups in 2009. The first matchup is against The Citadel (6-5) on Saturday. Despite the team’s less than perfect record, the Bulldogs have played well against ranked teams, playing within 13 points of No. 12 Michigan State. The final matchup of 2009 for the men will be on the Dec. 22 against the Washington Huskies in Seattle. Washington’s dynamic offense averages 83.8 points per game, led by senior forward Quincy Pondexter (22.1 points per game) and sophomore guard Isaiah Thomas (20.4 points per game).
Holiday viewing guide T.D. Durham
It’s getting cold outside, so feel free to stay inside and enjoy some Aggie sports.
C
Stephen Fogg — THE BATTALION
Texas A&M players walk off of the field after a 49-39 loss to No. 2 Texas on Nov. 26 at Kyle Field. The Aggies face off against Georgia on Dec. 28 in Shreveport, La.
hristmastime is here, so cue the Nat King Cole and mistletoe. But hold on a second, just because you’re sipping on some sugar cookie eggnog doesn’t mean you can’t keep an eye out for some wicked Aggie sports over winter break. While average students are enjoying a few weeks of academic absence, Texas A&M athletes are still in midseason. Here are a couple of games to watch while you’re warm and cozy at home.
Over the break, the A&M men’s and women’s basketball teams have a combined nine games for Aggie fans to follow. Right out of the gate, the men’s basketball team has two games that should provide an excellent alternative to sappy Hallmark Christmas specials. To kick things off, the Aggies takes on The Citadel at 8 p.m. Saturday in Reed Arena. Coming off of its second loss, A&M needs a win to keep momentum as it gets closer to the Big 12 conference schedule. Just three days after that, Head Coach Mark Turgeon and his maroon-clad warriors will gear up in their holiday stockings to take on No. 17 Washington on its home court. The battle with the Huskies will be a tough test for the Aggies. The women’s basketball team, coming off of its first loss of the season, has a key matchup with Gonzaga Sunday Dec. 23 in Las Vegas, Nev, The Bulldogs, 11-2 in the 2009-2010 season, will be the biggest challenge for the
Aggies’ since they defeated California on Dec. 6. Following these exciting B-ball times of merriment is one of the most exciting things in all of athletics at A&M: the bowl game. This year, the Aggies have a chance to prove themselves against a Southeastern Conference team in Georgia, which finished 7-5 in the 2009 regular season. This daunting challenge is the first bowl game in the Sherman Era and will be the perfect way to spend a Monday night just three days after Christmas Day. But just when you think it’s time to forget about your beloved sports teams and relax by the Christmas tree, the A&M men’s and women’s swimming and diving teams start their spring schedule with a couple scary meets. On Jan. 9, both the men’s and women’s teams will swim against the Auburn Tigers in See Holidays on page 6
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3/2 2car garage Hartford Drive town home. W/d, fridge, small fenced back yard. Available January 2010. $1200/mo. 979-992-3168 3/2 duplex. 5-minutes from campus, fenced yard, bus route, fairly new. Call 214-505-6534, 469-233-4653. 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 Duplexes, 1400sqft, fenced backyard, all appliances new, excellent specials, 979-694-0320. office@luxormanagement.com 3bd./1ba. House, $800/mo., Close to campus! 307 George Bush East, Jan-Aug, Call Ryan 512-496-4131. 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 4/2, acre lot. Plenty of parking. Just remodeled. All appliances. $1000/mo. 903-693-2544. 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 All bills paid, 4-bdrm condo on Southwest Parkway. Has 3 rooms for rent, $425/each with private baths, shared common area, 210-771-4535. Available 1/1/10. 2bdrm/1.5ba. condo w/carport. New carpet, paint. Pool, w/d included, on shuttle route. Water paid. 1501 Stallings. 214-709-6319. aggiecondo@verizon.net Available Now! Spring Sublease at The Enclave. 1bdrm/bathroom in a 2/2. Newly Remodeled. $525/mo. pus 1/2bills. Pet Friendly. 361-648-5679 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. Casa Verde town-home 2/2 W/D connection. Near bus stop. Pest, water, lawn paid $695/mo. 703-8282. Close to campus 2bd/2bth. Washer and dryer. Fenced yard. www.aggielandleasing.com www.southwoodplace.com
Oak Creek Condos high-speed internet and basic cable. 2bdrm/1.5ba. $515/mo. Water, sewer, trash paid. Fireplace, icemaker, pool, hot-tub. 979-822-1616. One bedroom for rent in 4bed house. M/f. 1mi to campus. On bus rout. $300/m +1/3bills. Completely furnished. Hot tub and game room. 979-739-7717 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 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. Spacious 2bd/2ba, washer and dryer provided, shuttle route, curbside parking. www.aggielandleasing.com www.southwoodplace.com Spacious 3bd/3ba. Close to campus. Washer and dryer provided. www.aggielandleasing.com Spring/ Summer sublease at Parkway Place. Was $560/mo, now $460/mo. January free. Furnished, all bills paid. Call Mitchell 903-388-7165. Spring/ Summer sublease at Parkway Place. First Month Paid!!! $448/mo. All bills paid. Call Charlie, 214-929-9435, email roberc12@neo.tamu.edu Sublease 1bd/1ba, w/d. Jan.1st- July31st. $695/mo. University Square Apartments. 979-693-2720 or 707-421-8020. Apply at complex. Sublease for 2/2 duplex. Allows pets. $400/m. Off campus. Contact Nichole. 940-389-6437 Sublease for spring 2010. 4/4.5 Aspen Heights. $595/m plus electric. LilySanchez@tamu.edu Two rooms in nice mobile home. Master with private bath $475, 2nd bedroom $375. Central-air/ht, internet, cable, everything included. 210-364-7006.
FOR SALE Are you tired of paying rent? Buy this 2008 3/2 Palm Harbor manufactured home located at Sunset Ridge Park for $64,500. Get 2 roommates to pay $350 and you pay less than $100. Call 979-220-1948. We buy keg shells. $20 cash. 979-739-7717 Wolfpen district 2bd/2.5ba condo on TAMU shuttle. 1904 Dartmouth 817-422-3207
HELP WANTED
Cozy 2bdrm/2bth condo 3-blocks from campus, yard, w/d connections, over 1000sqft., no HUD, updated, $565/mo., 506-A College Main 254-289-0585.
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Pool Cleaner needed. Part time, full time, $8-10/hr. 979-229-0071.
Female roommate needed! Spacious 2-Story House in Horse Haven estates $550/mo. All bills paid! Available 12/2, Call Melody 254-715-3826 mperryman3826@ymail.com
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House for rent 3/1.5/1, 0.75 acres, horse ok, 6mo. lease available. $875/mo., $875 deposit 979-696-1670. New River Oaks town home with 1bdrm available in 4bd 4ba. Available Jan 10, $490mo plus utilities. 830-456-6888.
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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. December 27 -January 8 work in Houston removing holiday decorations. Work is physically demanding. Pay starts at $10/hr. Email tmdi1@verizon.net Immediate opening for energetic, detail oriented, dependable teaching assitant. Part-time hours. Mondays through Thursdays. Afternoons and evenings. Call Sylvan Learning Center at 979-846-4988 Math teacher needed for all levels. Science a plus. Late afternoon and evenings M-Th. Call Sylvan at 979-846-4988.
Female roommate for spring/summer for house 1mi from campus. $387.50 +1/4bills. Emily 979-877-9746, texascapcadet@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. Female roommate wanted at Gateway Villa Townhouses, private bd/ba, $450/mo. Call (832)782-0314 Fox Run condo. $450/mo +1/3 utilities. 3/3. Common area furnished. Contact 210-875-6187. Graduating? Moving to NW Houston? Aggie ‘06 two rooms open upstaris. $625 +1/2bills and upstairs is yours. ($400/person for two). House has pool, hot tub, and dog run. 979-324-8061. Ben.ronck.biz@gmail.com
P/T service station attendant and lube tech. Basic Automotive knowledge. Villa Maria Chevron, Villa Maria & E.29th. 979-776-1261.
New Condo! Sublease 1 room. Private bath &bed. Wood floor. W/D in unit. December half month free. Jan-May $315/mo. 519 SW Pkwy. Call 281-639-8847, 713-922-7722.
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One female roommate in duplex on bus route needed. $350/mo +1/2 utilities. Pets ok. 817-266-1286.
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.
LOST & FOUND $100 reward. ‘08 specialized Rockhopper 29er. Noticable features: Huge 29” tires, taller than most, titanium color. 361-293-8453. For info/pics www.facebook.com/bike.got.stole
Lost Aggie Ring. Regina Marie Schulte. West parking lot lower level to Zone. 11/13/09. Reward if found. 281-620-2193
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
One room in 2/2, private bath. $425/m, cable, internet, 1/4mi from campus, on bus rout. 682-553-1276 Roommate needed for Spring semester. 2/2 apartment. $343/mo. +1/2 utilities. 803-673-4113. Roommate needed immediately in 4/3 townhome. Bedroom furniture required. Quarter mile from campus, next to bus stop, shopping areas. $440/mo. 479-629-0246. Roommate needed. January- May 2010 lease. 12x20 bedroom in 4/2 house. Deck, porches, furnished common areas. $450/mo +1/4bills. Contact 832-326-1955. Sublease for spring, available 1/1/2010. Room for 1-female in 4bdrm/2.5ba townhouse, Callaway Villas. Fully furnished, W/D, living room, kitchen, pool, gym, $400/mo. Call 281-573-3025, 832-655-0208, or email jarmstr202@aol.com
TUTORS Need a Tutor? Friendly, helpful one-on-one private tutors for all subjects at TAMU/Blinn and Sam Houston State. Check us out at www.99tutors.com, 979-255-3655.
Adopt Pets: Dogs, Cats, Puppies, Kittens, Many purebreds. Brazos Animal Shelter, 979-775-5755, www.brazosanimalshelter.org Small red terrier, answers to Mudd, lost in historic district of College Station. 512-517-2924 cclaytonjones@gmail.com Welsh corgi/ farm collie puppies available 12/13-12/16. $40. Call 940-867-9544.
REAL ESTATE Buy &Sell B/CS homes, condos, duplexes. RE/MAX. Nadia 979-693-1851. Michael 979-739-2035. www.bcsrealty.com
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What’s next Men’s basketball: Texas A&M vs. Citadel Time: 8 p.m. When: Dec. 19 Where: Reed Arena Leading scorers: Citadel: Cameron Wells Texas A&M: Donald Sloan Women’s basketball: Texas A&M vs. Arizona State Time: 8:30 p.m. When: Dec. 19 Where: Las Vegas, Nev. Leading scorers: Sun Devils: Danielle Orsillo Texas A&M: Tanisha Smith Men’s swimming & diving: Texas A&M vs. Auburn Time: 11:30 a.m. When: Jan. 9 Where: College Station Who to watch: Auburn: Gideon Louw Texas A&M: Nikita Denisyako Women’s swimming & diving: Texas A&M vs. Auburn Time: 11:30 a.m. When: Jan. 9 Where: College Station Who to watch: Auburn: Micah Lawrence Texas A&M: Julia Wilkinson Football: Texas A&M vs. Georgia Time: 4 p.m. When: Dec. 28 Where: Shreveport, La. Records: Georgia: 7-5 Texas A&M: 6-6
Holidays Continued from page 5
College Station. Auburn’s two teams have combined for a stunning 10 national titles since 2003. Coming from a swimming background, I know when I see some mad skills in the pool. Auburn’s team literally makes me quake in my fins just thinking about it. Taking on the Tigers might not be the most wonderful time of the year for the Aggies. But if swimming doesn’t tickle your fancy this break, you’ll be able to take a switch back to some hoops to get your sporting fill. On the same day the Aggie swimmers and divers try to tame the Tigers, the A&M basketball teams have the first conference games of the season. The women will open conference play against rival Texas in Austin. The Aggies have defeated the Longhorns in the past five consecutive meetings, including an 11-point victory on Feb. 21. The men’s team opens its conference schedule with a home game against Nebraska on the same day. The last time the Aggies played the Huskers, senior guard Josh Carter sank a buzzer-beating three-pointer to steal some holiday cheer from Nebraska and seal a 57-55 victory. This season, Nebraska boasts a 7-2 record. Now, if these silly sporting events aren’t your cup of hot chocolate, so be it. But for all of you sports fans out there, this holiday cornucopia of A&M action should be enough to fulfill all of your winter break wishes. Happy Holidays. T.D. Durham is a sophomore English major and sports editor.
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EDITOR’SNOTE Tuesday’s opinion column “A Hole Different World”addressed security issues associated with anonymous sex occuring on campus. The column was neither fear-mongering nor critical of the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community. As the independent student voice of Texas A&M, the staff makes every effort to include relevant criticism and commentary from staff members. Columnists have an additional code of conduct, where they, according to The Battalion mission, strive to “inform, educate and entertain readers” whether those readers agree or disagree. Additionally, The Battalion accepts submissions for publication, providing a forum for all students to express themselves. 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.
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gay or bisexual, when many in fact do not. The last point the article presents is there must be a stop to “these seedy and illegal sex Heterosexuals share acts.” The tone of the article, as I read it, allows responsibility for the a reader to interpret “seedy and illegal” as same prevalence of public sex. sex encounters. The final statement I would like to make is this his guest column was written in response article is extremely damaging because of how it to the opinion article, “A Hole Different portrays the gay community as solely responsible World,” published in the Battalion on for public and anonymous sex – we are not. Dec. 8. While the article was an opinion piece, I The effects this type of opinion piece can have feel as a member of the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and can be truly devastating, and I saw proof of that transgender community, I have a responsibility as I sat in my chemistry class and watched some to discuss some of the points in this article and of my male acquaintances’ faces turn to disgust from our perspective. and horror because now it’s in their minds that The opinion piece begins as an informative they will be accosted in public bathrooms on piece about how the University is experiencing campus by gay men. problems with public and anonymous sex in This article adds to an already homophobic campus bathrooms and in Evans Library, then environment and gives license for people to asks the question why Texas A&M has these attack those perceived as gay or bisexual out acts taking place on campus. The first thing one of fear engendered by the article. I feel the must understand is that public and anonymous article’s position was hindered by not including sex is going to happen no matter where you are. information from a GLBT member on campus. The second thing mentioned in that part of the In closing I would like to say how disappointed article is how several online posts offer countless many of my friends and I are in the editors at opportunities for homosexual encounters. The The Battalion for approving “A Hole Different article further leads us to believe only the gay World” for publication without having any community participates in these encounters, conversation with the author about including it barely mentioned there are also countless actual data about the campus climate for GLBT listings for public and anonymous heterosexual Aggies, or the frequency of public, anonymous encounters on Craigslist. These listings go sex for all sexual orientations at a school that unmentioned because we live and work in a struggles with diversity and homophobia. For heteronormative and heterosexist world where more information about the GLBT community heterosexuality is considered the default. and their supporters, please visit glbt.tamu.edu. The article mentions why, for being such a conservative city, there is such a supposed high Jude J. Magaro Jr. is a freshman general studies concentration of gay people here in “Closet major and is a member of Gay, Lesbian, Station,” the obvious but unspoken answer is Bisexual and Transgender Aggies. we are everywhere, in your classes, the military, standing next to you, so of course there are more than you may realize. More importantly though Mail call must be fewer than 200 words and the article talks about how most of us are not out and have no wish to do so. First of all, revealing include the author’s name, classification, major and phone number. Staff and faculty must one’s sexual orientation is a major and personal include title. Guest columns must be fewer than decision, also “coming out” is usually only 700 words. All submissions become property an option for us if we feel safe, supported and affirmed. In addition, the article also assumes all of The Battalion and are subject to editing for men using these “glory holes” would indentify as style, clarity and space concerns. Jude J. Magaro Jr.
T
MAILCALL From Jessica Siebersma, sophomore sports management major
From Adam Bechtold, senior history major
I’m extremely irritated, and even somewhat offended by the article “A Hole Different World.” I think it’s absolutely ridiculous that it was even published. Not only does it single out homosexuals and put them in a negative light, it almost seems as if it’s a call to action on the part of homophobes. Yes, our school is very conservative, but it’s foolish and naive to think that everyone on campus is in fact conservative and heterosexual. I’m not condoning sex in public places; I agree that it is inappropriate, but not just gay sex, heterosexual sex is also. Yet that was completely skipped over and barely mentioned. This article is the type of negativity and discrimination gay people are trying to get away from. They face it everyday on campus and in their everyday lives, and personally I think that’s already enough of a hardship without having ignorant writers creating even more negative opinions.
I have to disagree with the artice regarding commentary on Christmas as a religious vs. secular holiday. I was talking with my roommate and we decided that the whole argument might be compared to the difference between a hitchhiker and a carjacker where the situation may start the same way with both, but they end very differently. You get to decide when the hitchhiker gets out of your car, while a carjacker decides when you get out of your car. Very different. I would venture to say most Christians put up Christmas trees and hang lights and listen to Jingle Bells and lie to their children about Santa Claus with the rest of society. If I may extend the metaphor, I would say that Christians have shown they don’t mind letting other people go along for the ride, but the problem is that all of a sudden Christians feel like they’re being told it’s time for them to get out of their own car. Therefore I believe they are justifiably confused and upset.
TAKE A PIECE OF A&M HISTORY WITH YOU · Purchase the 2009 Aggieland (if you haven’t)
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The 2010 Aggieland yearbook will be a 700-page record of the 2009-2010 Texas A&M school year. Books will be mailed out during Fall 2010. Drop by 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. Cash, check, VISA, MasterCard, Discover and American Express accepted. Phone: 979.845.2613.
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Evan Andrews— THE BATTALION
Opening up opinion Kat Drinkwater
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Battalion columnists are students just like you. Aggies interested in sharing their thoughts with thousands should send in an application.
W
riting opinion articles seems like it should be so easy. After all, we all have opinions. We share them with our friends, coworkers and classmates all the time, and it seems so effortless. In the process of writing down an opinion, however, and making the effort to explain it as thoroughly and clearly as possible— to anticipate criticisms and justify my arguments— I often find my opinions change, or at least morph into more mature ones. The sharpening of my opinions and rebirth of critical thinking during my time at The Battalion has led to personal growth I doubt I would have achieved any other way, and it’s an experience I hope you will consider for yourself. If you’re thinking you might like to write for the paper I highly encourage you to apply. Applications for writer positions are accepted year-round, but there’s no time like the present to fill one out. The opportunity to present your thoughts, on a topic of your choice, unopposed and as eloquently as you can manage to an audi-
ence of thousands doesn’t come often. In reality, relatively few people know me and even fewer care what I have to say about religion, politics or anything else. The Batt offers a chance to get paid to stand on a figurative soapbox once a week and actually have people listen to what you have to say. Although, it’s really not about the writer, it’s about the ideas. Even though my picture runs in the paper by all my columns, people rarely recognize me. Instead, they talk about the article, and that’s the point: not so much to persuade people but more to get them thinking about an issue and discussing it. I think as an opinion writer the best I could hope for was to bring up things in ways people might not have thought of before, or recently, and remind them there are two sides to every coin. Which isn’t to say I never made mistakes or left people more horribly confused than enlightened. There’s nothing quite as terrible as the morning-after-publication headache of seeing a mistake and knowing there’s nothing I can do about it. A sentence that looked perfectly unambiguous and harmless on my laptop at home somehow not only says something entirely different than what I meant, but also appears to have been uttered by an angry, fire-breathing dragon once it’s been printed up 22,000 times. In these cases, my greatest regret is that I couldn’t sit down to coffee with each and every one of you to try to explain what I meant to say and to hear what you have to say. That’s the problem with opinion, personally I only get to have one half of a conversation, and I only get one shot. But like I said before, the point is never the writer. When I commit a faux pas is often when a story gets the most at-
tention, and while my half of the conversation remains static, the talk among readers only grows. In my time as a writer I’ve tried to convey a few main points, some with more success than others. Firstly, to clear up any confusion, I am a Christian, and I tried to get that across in the articles where it was pertinent without rubbing anyone’s nose in it. At the same time, this is the reason I was harshest on Christians; I think we all judge ourselves the hardest. Love, charity and patience are the most important values any person can exhibit and the only things that bring peace to us, personally or globally. I think all people should strive to exhibit these characteristics, all the more so if they’re a Christian. I also think we should never be afraid to be better than we are, to reevaluate how we’ve always done things or to speak out against leaders who betray the values they are supposed to represent. Today’s the first day of the rest of your life; there’s no time like the present to make a change. It may be trite, but it’s true; college students are at the perfect place in life to adjust our beliefs, attitudes and behaviors. I hope that I’ve said things over the past year that made people think and maybe achieve some of their own personal growth. I’ve tried to write about issues that were worth your time and consideration. If you think you could do it better or if you have any thoughts to share with the campus, please fill out an application. If you have any questions you can call the office or drop by, you could even hunt me down on Facebook and send me a message. I promise, like all things worth doing, it’s not easy, but the rewards are great. Kat Drinkwater is a senior university psychology and neuroscience major.
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The Creator God Leaves Heaven for You!
Tips for avoiding the holiday pounds Laura Sanchez The Battalion Most people can attest that one of the best things about the holidays is the food. Although it is easy to indulge in pies, turkey and stuffing, holiday pounds can creep up quickly. There are a few alternatives students can take to avoid those holiday pounds and stay fit while enjoying the winter break. “People can gain anywhere from one to 10 pounds during the holiday season. People also tend to slack off the exercise, especially students due to not having access to the Rec center,” said Rhonda Rahn, health education coordinator for Student Health Services. Remembering to exercise regularly during the holiday season can help combat those holiday pounds. “Check out local gyms to see if they have free passes for a week or so,” Rahn said. A few eating techniques can also decrease appetites. “Eat slowly and chew well, it takes about 20 minutes for easy-to-digest food to become glucose and reach the brain telling you that you have been fed. Many of us can pack on a lot of excess calories in 20 min-
utes if we eat fast,” said Linda Talley, nutrition and food science professor. To avoid getting too stuffed at holiday parties, consider filling up a little ahead of time. “Eat something before you go to the party or sit down for the big meal. This will help avoid overeating,” Rahn said. Adjusting some traditional family recipes may be difficult, but it can have some health benefits that can help with combating holiday pounds. “Modify recipes to reduce the amount of fat and calories. For example, when making lasagna, use part-skim ricotta cheese instead of whole-milk ricotta cheese. Substitute shredded vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini and spinach for some of the ground meat in lasagna,” advises the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Web site. Drinking water instead of sugar-sweetened beverages can make you full and clean your system at the same time. “For your parties, serve lots of high fiber, high water, colorful nutrient dense foods (fruits and vegetables and lean meats) and don’t eat all the leftovers immediately after the party while cleaning up,” Talley said. Instead of eating turkey
sandwich leftovers, try a turkey salad for a healthier alternative. “Control portions and plan in advance. For example if you know there will be a big meal coming up, eat lighter meals the rest of the day,” Rahn said. “Never skip a meal. If faced with a buffet, pick two items that you have to have and go for it. Don’t gather around the food table and use smaller plates.” Many calories can be hidden in alcoholic beverages. Avoid drinking too much and substitute the drinks for water. “Limit your alcoholic beverage intake. Alcoholic drinks can have many calories, especially holiday favorites like eggnog. Try to drink water or low calorie beverages instead,” advises the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Maintaining a healthy diet throughout the year will help you to stay healthy through the holiday season. A good idea is to plan fun activities with the family to stay in shape. Taking a walk or playing some family football are a few ideas, Rahn said. “Bottom line is to not be too hard on yourself. Allow yourself to indulge but don’t overindulge,” Rahn said.
Safe travels to all, and to all a good night Laura Sanchez The Battalion The holidays are fast approaching, and for many, this means traveling to see family and friends during the winter break. Although many students drive regularly to other cities, traffic will be at a seasonal high and safety precautions need to be of the utmost concern. The University Police Department and College Station Fire Department advise taking safety precautions both before leaving the city, and while traveling long distances. Remember to plan a safety check before leaving home. Make sure all appliances are turned off or unplugged and holiday decorations are turned off as well. “Make arrangements with a neighbor to keep an eye on your home, take up newspapers and mail or even park their car in your driveway. Take home your PC and any other valuables,” said Officer Kristi Hosea of the University Police Department. It is a good idea to unplug other appliances that consume electricity even when turned off. Televisions, chargers and other entertainment devices can use a lot of electricity. This can be safer and can save students money on their next electricity bill. Also make sure any candles are extinguished and holiday decorations are turned off
and unplugged. “Check a long range weather forecast before departing,” said Bart Humphreys, public information officer for the fire department. “If freezing temperatures are predicted travelers should leave their heating systems on but set on the lowest setting, as long as the heating devices are not space heaters. This will assist in avoiding frozen or broken water pipes from the cold.” Making sure your vehicle is in safe condition before traveling should also be done ahead of time in order to ensure the safety of everyone. Check tire pressures, belts, fluids and windshield wipers. “As far as traveling goes, plan for a leisurely trip. If driving, plan regular stops every two hours or so,” Humphreys said. “These stretch breaks help avoid driver fatigue and highway hypnosis,” he said. Make sure your cell phone is fully charged before you leave for a trip in case of an emergency. Wait until the next rest stop to text friends. “Take an emergency kit along containing such essentials as a flashlight, jumper cables, first aid kit and roadway safety reflectors. Know how to change your spare tire or how to call for assistance,” Humphreys said. “If you do have mechanical trouble, pull off the roadway to the right and make sure you are out of the traffic lanes. If you have to
exit your vehicle, be extremely aware of traffic.” Every college student should also know what to do in case of car breakdowns, Humphreys said. “If your vehicle breaks down, move off the roadway and set your flashers/hazard lights [on],” Hosea said. “Stay in your vehicle and keep the doors locked. Use your cell phone to call the Department of Public Safety Roadside Assistance number on the back of your Texas Driver’s License.” Let people know where you’re going at all times in case of a traffic accident. “Every time I go home, I always make sure to call my parents to let them know when I left. That way they know about what time I should be home, and if I’m not home by that time, then they start to worry,” said sophomore interdisciplinary studies major Miriam Rosales. In concerns to holiday celebrations, students are advised to drink responsibly. Monitor drinks and have phone numbers to driving agencies, such as Carpool. “Designate a sober driver. It’s not the one least drunk. Consider having two sober people in the group. It’s no fun alone,” Hosea said. “Having two sober people in the group also helps in keeping up with everyone in the group and makes it easier to derail a bad situation before it gets out of hand.”
The Jesus Story: The Creator-God of the universe, Jesus Christ, left His home in heaven to become a human being. He lived a perfect life, performed miracles, was betrayed, and wrongfully condemned to death. After being crucified, Jesus' body was placed in a tomb. Three days later, he rose from the dead. After His resurrection, he remained on earth speaking to people for 40 days and then ascended to heaven. Jesus sacrificed himself to make a way for all people to have eternal life in heaven. Jesus said, "I am the light of the world; he who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." -John 8:12. God is reaching out to men and women through His son, Jesus Christ. To find out more about God's relevance in your life, we encourage you to read this article by Josh McDowell: Does Christianity Work? at www.leaderu.com/everystudent/josh/josh.html.
CHRISTIAN FACULTY We are a group of professors, instructors, lecturers, and administrators united by our common experience that Jesus Christ provides intellectually and spiritually satisfying answers to life’s most important questions. We are available to students, faculty, and staff who might like to discuss such questions with us. For more information about the Christian Faculty network and it's activities, please visit our website: http://christianfaculty.tamu.edu Rusty Burson 12th Man Foundation
Paul Roschke Civil Engineering
W. Miles Marks 12th Man Foundation
Hayes E. Ross Jr. Civil Engineering - Emeritus
Natalie L. Allen Accounting Jeannie Barrett Accounting Chris Duzich Accounting Mary Lea McAnally Accounting Sean McGuire Accounting Mike Shaub Accounting L. Murphy Smith Accounting Michael Wilkins Accounting Steve Smith Admissions & Records James Boyd Aerospace Engineering Walter Haisler Aerospace Engineering John Valasek Aerospace Engineering John Whitcomb Aerospace Engineering Oral Capps, Jr. Agricultural Economics James E. Christiansen Agricultural Education
The Men of the 147 ASOS Squadron based at Ellington Air Field would like to extend their appreciation to the
Gentlemen of the Texas Tau Chapter of Sigma Alpha Epsilon for their generous donation to help our soldiers serving overseas and the families that they have left behind.
Linda Ladd Family Development & Resource Mgmt.
Donald Saylak Civil Engineering - Emeritus
Paige Fields Finance
Ralph Wurbs Civil Engineering
Shane Johnson Finance
LTG John Van Alstyne Commandant's Office
James Kolari Finance
Michael Greenwald Communications
Lawrence Wolken Finance
Walter Daugherity Computer Science
Walter F. Juliff FSIS Project Management
Mac Lively Computer Science
Terry Spencer Geophysics
Dick Volz Computer Science
Rachel Aaron Health and Kinesiology
Charles W. Graham Construction Science
Danny Ballard Health and Kinesiology
Mary Beth Isenhart Health and Kinesiology
Charles Johnson Psychology
Tim Gronberg Economics
Ernie Kirkham Health and Kinesiology
Gary W. Maler Real Estate Center
Steven Wiggins Economics
Leonard Ponder Health and Kinesiology - Emeritus
Louis Hodges Recreation & Parks
Bryan Cole Educational Administration Debra Howard Educational Administration Robert K. James Educational Curriculum Patricia Larke Educational Curriculum Larry Dooley Educational HR Development Lisa Perrott Educational Psychology Jim Ji Electrical & Computer Engineering
Barry Nelson Health Science Center Hilaire Kallendorf Hispanic Studies Cindy Raisor Honors/English Richard Feldman Industrial Engineering Cesar Malave Industrial Engineering Don Phillips Industrial Engineering Della Whitcomb Information & Operations Mgmt. Randy Kluver Institute of Pacific Asia
Jay Holmes Athletics
Will Worley Electrical Engineering - Emeritus
Robert Field Large Vet. Animal Clinic
Colin Killian Athletics
Andrew K. Chan Electrical Engineering
O. E. (Ed) Elmore Management
Marion Alcorn Atmospheric Sciences
Robert Nevels Electrical Engineering
David Flint Management
James R. Wild Biochemistry & Genetics
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Charles Futrell Marketing
Brandon Dixon Biomedical Engineering
A. D. Patton Electrical Engineering
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James M. Griffin Bush School
B. Don Russell Electrical Engineering
Stephen McDaniel Marketing
Matt Upton Bush School
Lee Felder Employee Services
Katherine T. Smith Marketing
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Jerry Vinson Engineering Design - Emeritus
Robert Gustafson Mathematics
William Bedford Clark English Elizabeth Robinson
English
Jack Lunsford Chemistry - Emeritus
Elizabeth Tebeaux English
Jim Pennington Chemistry
Craig Kallendorf English & Classical Languages
Bob Hildreth Chemistry Daniel Romo Chemistry Stuart Aderson Civil Engineering Lynn Beason Civil Engineering Seth Guikema Civil Engineering Gene Hawkins Civil Engineering Dallas N. Little Civil Engineering Lee Lowery, Jr. Civil Engineering Jose M. Roesset Civil Engineering
Roger Schultz Performance Studies
Richard K. Anderson Economics
Clay Cavinder Animal Science
Richard Davison Chemical Engineering - Emeritus
Duane McVay Petroleum Engineering
Rob Heffer Psychology
Wayne Wylie Health and Kinesiology
Jodee Bailey Career Center
Joyce Davis Pathology & Lab Med - Emeritus
Carl Gabbard Health and Kinesiology
David A. Erlandson Educational Administration - Emeritus
Jeff Haberl Architecture
Jimmy T. Keeton Nutrition and Food Science
W. Todd Watson Ecosystem Science & Mgmt.
Kim Dooley Agricultural Leadership, Educ & Communication
Richard Davison, Jr. Architecture
Karen Beathard Nutrition and Food Science
Marlan Scully Physics
Leah Venable Health and Kinesiology
David Greg Riley Animal Science
Janet Parker Medical Physiology
Stephen Crouse Health and Kinesiology
Maynard Bratlien Educational Administration
Douglas Householder Animal Science
Ilona Petrikovics Medical Pharmacology
Mort Kothmann Ecosystem Science & Mgmt.
Landry Lockett Agricultural Education
Andy Herring Animal Science
Dan Turner Mechanical Engineering
John A. McIntyre Physics - Emeritus
Rose Schmitz Health and Kinesiology
Paul Harms Animal Science
C. Steve Suh Mechanical Engineering
Gregg Bennett Health and Kinesiology
Kelli Shomaker Education and Human Development
Dan Hale Animal Science
H.J. Sue Mechanical Engineering
Buzz Refugio Corp of Cadets
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James Sterling Family & Community Medicine
Terry Larsen Environmental Design Steven Oberhelman European & Classical Languages Cheryl Schaile European Languages Russell K. Biles Family & Community Medicine George McIlhaney Family & Community Medicine Lamar McNew Family & Community Medicine David Segrest Family & Community Medicine
David Manuel Mathematics Patrice Poage Mathematics Nancy Simpson Mays Business School Walter L. Bradley Mechanical Engineering - Emeritus Dave Claridge Mechanical Engineering L. Roy Cornwell Mechanical Engineering - Emeritus Richard Griffin Mechanical Engineering Warren Heffington Mechanical Engineering Harry Hogan Mechanical Engineering Gerald Morrison Mechanical Engineering
Maurice Dennis Safety Education Jane Nelson Bolin School of Rural Public Health James N. Burdine School of Rural Public Health Brian Colwell School of Rural Public Health Kerrie Green Social & Behavioral Health Monty Dozier Soil and Crop Sciences Henrik Schmiediche Statistics Barbara Henry Student Financial Dept. Ann Reed Student Health Services Sharon Haigler Student Learning Center Joel McGee Student Learning Center Diane Graham Student Teaching H. Wayne Sampson Systems Biology & Translational Medicine Mike Nelson TEES Information Systems Russell Brewer TEES Sponsored Research Jon Perrott Texas Coop Extension Donald A. Sweeney Urban Planning Joe Arosh Veterinary Biosciences Sakhila Arosh Veterinary Biosciences Robert Field Veterinary Medicine E. Dean Gage Veterinary Medicine Loren Skow Veterinary Medicine Michael Willard Veterinary Medicine Judith M. Ball Veterinary Pathobiology J.D. McCrady Veterinary Physiology -Retired Kenneth Pierce Veterinary Pathobiology - Emeritus Karen Snowden Veterinary Pathobiology James E. Womack Veterinary Pathobiology
Tillie McVay Mechanical Engineering
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Jim Jensen Veterinary Physiology
Ozden Ochoa Mechanical Engineering
NOTE: This ad presents the personal convictions of the individuals listed herein; the ad does not represent or support any view or position of Texas A&M University or any academic department. The ad does represent and acknowledge the diversity of academic contributions to Texas A&M University by men and women of various race, ethnic group, and cultural background who share the Christian faith.
Veritas Forum is Coming February 22-24, 2010
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City to expand pedestrian walkway ■ Northgate district renovation to make streets safer for residents Melissa Appel The Battalion A block of Northgate may be closed to vehicle traffic in order to increase pedestrian safety, according to a proposed Northgate district renovation. Texas A&M University is collaborating with the Texas Department of Transportation, TxDOT, and the City of College Station on a master plan for the district that shows changes to vehicle traffic flow with the ultimate goal of increasing the safety for visitors to Northgate businesses. “The purpose is pedestrian safety. That is a huge positive as far as the city, Texas A&M and TxDOT are concerned,” said Director of Public Works for the City of College Station Mark Smith. In the plan, a section of College Main from University Drive to Patricia would be converted into a pedestrian mall with no vehicle access. This change would mirror the existing safety procedures implemented on weekend nights in Northgate. “This is the permanent installation of the safety measures the city currently puts in place on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays between 10 p.m. and 3 a.m. for the safety of the pedestrians in this area,” Smith said. “This will provide for a full-street-width pedestrian crossing of University [Drive].” The change to College Main would continue on the south side of University Drive, with Houston Street eventually being restricted to vehicles and reconstructed to be an extension of the street-width pedestrian mall. Houston Street would be moved to the west, with a new entrance providing right turn access to the A&M campus and the post office parking lot. “The pedestrian mall will be located essentially where Houston Street is currently located between Hogg Street and University Drive,” said Texas A&M Vice President of Facilities Chuck Sippial. “It will definitely improve the flow of pedestrian and bike traffic by reducing the safety risk crossing University Drive.” The master plan suggests further developments to the University Drive locale to increase the flow of pedestrian traffic. Instead of the turn lane currently in place, a median would be installed along University from Wellborn Road to College Main. This would allow for a safe haven for pedestrians crossing the seven lanes of traffic. The placement of a traffic signal and a signaled crosswalk at University and Boyett Street would add another location for safe travel across the busy street.
Stephen Fogg — THE BATTALION
The Northgate plan suggests to improve the flow of pedestrian traffic and increase the safety for visitors to businesses. Construction would also eliminate 18 parking spaces available along University Drive in order to widen the sidewalk and install guard rails. Proponents of the plan aim to attract more people to the district with the improved flow and safety level. “In addition, the improved pedestrian access will enhance pedestrian activity in the area and that should be a boon to the businesses in the Northgate business district,” Smith said. “Another plus will be aesthetic improvements.” Some Northgate establishments have voiced concerns that the lack of parking could hinder business. Complaints include the hassle of finding parking and the reduced access for delivery drivers. City departments are working to gather input regarding this and other complaints and implement improvements to their master plan. “The City, TxDOT and the University are all working together to mitigate the plan’s effect by adjusting current bus operations, working to accommodate commercial deliveries and minimize the impact on on-street parking,” Smith said. The process of creating the master plan was initiated in 2003, when a ballot was passed in College Station that provided funding to improve pedestrian safety. Part of these funds were directed to the Northgate plan, which is to be implemented in phases. The City, TxDOT and A&M are promoting the first phase. In 2008, College Station voters approved another ballot allotting an addi-
tional $7 million to complete additional phases. In the current timeline for the Northgate project, a revised plan for the renovations will be presented to the City Council on Jan. 14. Construction can begin after the plan has been approved by all collaborating entities. Throughout the timeline, citizens and students have been presented with opportunities to voice their opinion on the proposed changes. “TxDOT held a series of focus group meetings where Northgate business owners, property owners, students and the public were invited to see the schematics and ask questions and submit comments and suggestions. This process has been ongoing for the last six months,” Smith said. “There will be a public hearing before the College Station Council’s consideration of the resolution on Jan. 14th.” Texas A&M students have been targeted for input. “I think it’s a great idea because it would make it safer for people who become inebriated,” said Caleb Stone, sophomore civil engineering major. “The sidewalks are too small. It would make it flow better because people wouldn’t have to wait for the cars.” Regardless of any counter arguments, planners hope all can agree on the goal of safety in the Northgate district. “There are no downsides regarding the safety aspects of the plan,” Sippial said.
African studies program celebrates 5 years A&M minor provides a diverse education Joaquin Villegas | The Battalion
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Texas A&M University offers students a wide range of opportunities to discover the cultures and perspectives various cultures hold. One of these opportunities is the minor offered by the African Studies Program, which celebrates its fifth year anniversary this semester. The minor consists of 18 hours in interdisciplinary classes that range from Introduction to Africana Studies to Race and Politics in the United States and even Sociology of Sports. “Africana Studies is a program which provides students with a unique opportunity to think critically about the cultural, historical and social contributions and experiences of people from Africa and of African descent,” said Director of the Africana
Studies Program and Associate Professor of English Kimberly Brown. With about 26 students enrolled, the program offers students an advantage in the workforce and when applying to graduate or professional schools, Brown said. “By minoring in Africana Studies students learn new perspectives and a respect for differences that will enable them to develop the cultural competency needed to successfully compete in the workforce,” Brown said. The Africana Studies Program uses various fields of education to promote what is referred to as the “African Diaspora.” “First of all, the term African Diaspora refers to people of African descendents living outside the African
continent,” said assistant professor of Africana and Hispanic Studies Alain Lawo-Sukam. “People of African ancestry are found in almost every corner of the earth, and they take their cultures and ideas with them. In order to understand the full meaning of the African Diaspora, the program offer courses that are interdisciplinary. They encompass several different fields of study such as anthropology, sociology, philosophy, communication, literature, performance, history and political sciences.” The African Studies Program has helped students to develop into citizens of the world with a positive outlook of the world, said Jonathan Luu, sophomore sociology major enrolled in the Africana Studies minor.
“The Program provided me with a different perspective of the world, the human perspective,” Luu said. “It really gave me understanding of social reality. It gives you the perspective of where the world needs to be and empowers you to do something. Once you leave the program, you won’t look at the world the same way.” The success of the program has led the Africana Studies Program to develop a Study Abroad experience in the country of Ghana that will take place during the summer of 2010. Ghana is a country rich in the history and culture of the African Diaspora. The study will be led by Africana and performance studies professor David Donkor and history professor Larry Yarak.
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