THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13 | SERVING TEXAS A&M SINCE 1893 | © 2020 STUDENT MEDIA
‘
e ff i D
f o l s o d v n i e k ’ t n re FILE
Parker McCollum will perform Feb. 14 and 15 at Hurricane Harry’s.
Love on the dance floor McCollum, Gilbert, Baker to perform in College Station Valentine’s weekend Photo art by Kaylee Cogbill — THE BATTALION
LGBTQ+ Pride Center coordinator Tori Jackson said there is a lack of representation not just of the LGBTQ+ community, but also in racial and ethnic varieties when celebrating love.
LGBTQ+ community gives their take on Valentine’s Day, commercial representation of the heteronormative holiday By Julia Potts @juliaapotts
T
he age-old romantic holiday of Valentine’s Day is now an all-encompassing celebration of love. Feb. 14 has many constants: cheesy cards, cute stuffed animals, overpriced flowers and — everyone’s favorite — crappy chocolate. However, there are some new,
refreshing qualities to Valentine’s Day, such as recognition of the LGBTQ+ community. Tori Jackson, LGBTQ+ Pride Center coordinator, said there is a present lack of representation in commercial aspects of Valentine’s Day and other holidays as well. “I think there’s probably a lot of variation on how the LGBTQ+ community thinks about and feels about how Valentine’s Day is portrayed,” Jackson said. “I think there’s a lack of media representation across the board for all holidays.” Jackson said there is not only a lack of LGBTQ+ representation in advertisements, but also an insufficient amount of racial and ethnic variation. They said the media should progress to show more variety, especially with respect to a holiday celebrating love. “There’s definitely room for improve-
By Shelby McVey @shelbyxbreann
ment,” Jackson said. “I think not just being white couples, that’s a big thing. Media tends to represent [white couples] predominantly instead of a mixed one, whatever the couple’s gender, sexual orientation. That could be an improvement of there being a variety of different races and ethnicities. Again, showing same-sex couples, aromantic or asexual romances would also be a big improvement.” Fransisca Marini, outreach and programming librarian curator with Cushing Library, has worked closely with the LGBTQ+ groups on campus. She said she thinks the amount of coverage for the LGBTQ+ community is improving. “It’s better than it used to be, but we have to do more,” Marini said. “I see more
The old wooden stage in Hurricane Harry’s has seen a few legendary performances since its debut in the ‘90s. From matchups of Randy Rogers and Wade Bowen to hosting Cody Johnson before he made it to Nashville, the bar and dancehall has been ear-marked as a milestone in the careers of Texas country music artists. With a reputation to uphold, it’s not uncommon to see Hurricane Harry’s pull out all the stops to ensure a rowdy crowd. Valentine’s Day weekend is sure to be no different. Parker McCollum and opener Grant Gilbert will roll into College Station on Feb. 14 to play for a sold-out crowd at Hurricane Harry’s. After selling out the venue only weeks after announcing the show, the venue catered to McCollum’s fans by announcing a second date on Feb. 15, this time with Hayden Baker kicking the night off. Fresh off three dates on Miranda Lambert’s
LGBTQ+ ON PG. 2
PARKER ON PG. 2
Kaylee Cogbill — THE BATTALION
On Feb. 11 DRAGgieland protestors held a banner in Academic Plaza and asked for signatures on their petition to stop the drag show in Rudder Theatre.
Kaylee Cogbill — THE BATTALION
Women gather to celebrate friendship on the growing holiday known as Galentine’s Day.
DRAGgieland sparks protest Ladies celebrating ladies Students petition against on-campus drag show citing core values, morality By Brady Stone and Julia Potts @bradystonex & @juliaapotts On Sunday, Feb. 9, a petition was started on Change.org to stop DRAGgieland, a Feb. 19 event showcasing drag queens, kings and other similar performers. Since its introduction, the petition has received over 1,500 signatures. The petition states: “This event, funded by the university, contradicts the A&M core values, especially respect and excellence. The dress and actions of these performers are disrespectful to women, with men portraying women as objects of sexual exploitation for the entertainment of the student body. The actions of this event do not promote excellence of the student body, but instead foster a climate of degradation.”
Political science junior Brendan Cassell said he started the petition with the president of Texas A&M’s chapter of The Knights of Columbus and TFP Student Action to show that some members of the student body do not support this event and would like for it to be stopped. “We’re not saying that the people putting on DRAGgieland don’t have a right to put on the show — of course they do,” Cassell said. “As students who uphold ourselves to a certain standard, we just want to make it clear that not all of us support [DRAGgieland].” DRAGgieland protesters petitioned and held a banner in Academic Plaza on Feb. 11. One of the protestors, electronic systems engineering technology sophomore Erin McBride, said free speech is different from showing off people’s bodies in a way that is “inappropriate” and “doesn’t support chastity.” “I believe people have the right to do what DRAGGIELAND ON PG. 5
Pseudo-holiday turned staple continues to gain prominence By Shelby Smith @Shelbysmith867 Valentine’s Day, a holiday traditionally dedicated to romantic love, has been celebrated for centuries. More recently, however, a spin-off of this tradition celebrating platonic love between female friends has gained popularity. Galentine’s Day, which celebrates the beauty of female community and friendship, began as total fiction. The concept first appeared in a 2010 episode of “Parks and Recreation,” where Leslie Knope, the show’s main character, gathers her female friends and celebrates their relationships on Feb. 13. The idea has since become a wildly popular reality and is growing in participation each year. Now, women around the world gather on
REGISTER
NOW! www.blinn.edu
Spring 12 Week Courses Beginning Feb. 17
n
blinnbound@blinn.edu
or around Valentine’s Day to commemorate their bond. Ashley Justynski, a graduate assistant at the Texas A&M Women’s Resource Center, said Galentine’s Day has gone far beyond its sitcom beginnings because of the all-inclusive nature of the celebration centered around appreciating those who support you. “Even people who don’t watch the show have started to celebrate it because it’s such a great holiday,” Justynski said. “To me, this day is all about celebrating my friends.” Langley Pembleton, journalism sophomore, said evolving societal norms might be the catalyst behind this pseudo-holiday’s rapid growth and popularity. “I think the idea of empowering women to love themselves and be confident without a relationship has a lot to do with it,” Pembleton said. “You don’t need a Valentine to have fun. You just need your fellow girls.” Celebrating the love of friendship and the GALENTINES ON PG. 2
Courses that fit your schedule. Tuition that fits your budget.
NEWS
2
The Battalion | 2.13.20
Photo art by Kaylee Cogbill — THE BATTALION
CHRISTIAN FACULTY NETWORK
We are a group of professors, instructors, lecturers, and administrators united by our common experience that Jesus Christ provides intellectual 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 its activities, please visit our website: http://cfn.tamu.edu Chris Carson 12th Man Foundation Clint Dempsey 12th Man Foundation Sharon Haigler Academic Success Center Joel McGee Academic Success Center
Jose M. Roesset Civil Engineering - Emeritus
James Sterling Family and Community Medicine
Hayes E. Ross, Jr. Civil Engineering - Emeritus
Linda Ladd Family Development and Resource Mgmt.
Donald Saylak Civil Engineering - Emeritus
Shane Johnson Finance
Scott A. Socolofsky Civil Engineering
Natalie L. Allen Accounting
Ralph Wurbs Civil Engineering
Jeannie Barrett Accounting
Diane Oswald College of Architecture
Michelle Diaz Accounting
Gwendolyn M. Wilkins College of Education
Matt Ege Accounting
Jon Buchanan College of Engineering
Mary Lea McAnally Accounting
Janet L. Parker College of Medicine (HSC) - Emeritus
James Kolari Finance Adam Kolasinski Finance Charles W. Lafon Geography Terry Spencer Geophysics Adam Barry Health and Kinesiology Gregg Bennett Health and Kinesiology Stephen Crouse Health and Kinesiology
H.J. Su Mechanical Engineering C. Steve Suh Mechanical Engineering H. Wayne Sampson Medical Physiology (TAMHSC) - Retired David Howell Molecular and Cellular Medicine Steve Maxwell Molecular and Cellular Medicine David Boyle Nuclear Security Science and Policy Institute Karen Beathard Nutrition and Food Science Pete Murano Nutrition and Food Science Susanne Talcott Nutrition and Food Science
Sean McGuire Accounting
Vicky A. Keys College of Nursing
Mike Shaub Accounting
Martin Carlisle Computer Science
Steve Smith Admissions
Walter Daugherity Computer Science
James Boyd Aerospace Engineering
Timothy J. McGuire Computer Science & Engineering
Walter Haisler Aerospace Engineering
Lance Simms Construction Science
Mary Beth Henthorne Health and Kinesiology
John Valasek Aerospace Engineering
Tim Davis CSE
Ernie Kirkham Health and Kinesiology
Sharon Mena Offices of the Dean of Student Life
John Whitcomb Aerospace Engineering
Richard K. Anderson Economics
Steve Martin Health and Kinesiology
Duane McVay Petroleum Engineering
Oral Capps, Jr. Agricultural Economics
Tim Gronberg Economics
Marlan Scully Physics
Nathan Harness Agricultural Economics
Silvana Krasteva Economics
Leonard Ponder Health and Kinesiology - Emeritus
James E. Christiansen Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communication - Emeritus
Steven Wiggins Economics
Kim Dooley Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communication
Mort Kothmann Ecosystem Science and Mgmt. Bryan Cole Educational Administration and HR - Emeritus
Alvin Larke, Jr. Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communication
Larry Dooley Educational Administration and HR
Tobin Redwine Agricultural Leadership, Education, and Communications
David A. Erlandson Educational Administration and HR - Emeritus
Dan Hale Animal Science
Debra Howard Educational Administration and HR
Andy Herring Animal Science David Greg Riley Animal Science Jeff Haberl Architecture Jay Holmes Athletics Colin Killian Athletics James R. Wild Biochemistry and Genetics Michael C. Cochran Bush School of Government and Public Service James M. Griffin Bush School of Government and Public Service
Robert "Trez" Jones Educational Administration and HR Patricia Larke Educational Curriculum Mack Burke Educational Psychology
Meagan Orsag Center on Disability and Development Kim Sutphen Center for Executive Development Jack Lunsford Chemistry - Emeritus Jim Pennington Chemistry Micah Green Chemical Engineering Stuart Anderson Civil Engineering Lynn Beason Civil Engineering Gene Hawkins Civil Engineering Dallas N. Little Civil Engineering Lee Lowery, Jr. Civil Engineering
Rhonda Rahn Health and Kinesiology Rose Schmitz Health and Kinesiology
Byron Schlather Office of the Commandant
Tracy Brower Psychology Rob Heffer Psychology
Mike Terral Health and Kinesiology
Roger R. Martinez Public Partnership & Outreach
Leah Venable Health and Kinesiology
Charles Johnson Public Policy Research Institute
Scott Waltemyer Health and Kinesiology
Louis Hodges Recreation and Parks
Wayne Wylie Health and Kinesiology
Chris Harrist Recreation, Park and Tourism Sciences
Barry Nelson Health Science Center Hilaire Kallendorf Hispanic Studies Lorien Foote History Richard Feldman Industrial Engineering Cesar Malave Industrial Engineering Don Phillips Industrial Engineering
Gary W. Maler Real Estate Center Katherine Smith RELLIS Lawrence Smith RELLIS Jim Burdine School of Public Health Heather Clark School of Public Health Brian Colwell School of Public Health
Della Whitcomb Information and Operations Mgmt.
B. Don Russell Electrical and Computer Engineering
Elsa Murano International Agrilife Research Program
Tom Overbye Electrical and Computer Engineering
Steven Oberhelman International Studies
Henrik Schmiediche Statistics
Greg Graves ISEN
Katy Lane Study Abroad Programs Office
Andrew K. Chan Electrical Engineering
Seth Sullivan Engineering Academic & Student Affairs
Jesús Palomo CEHD, Dean’s Office
John S. Green Health and Kinesiology
Steve Talcott Nutrition and Food Science
Jim Ji Electrical and Computer Engineering
Matt Upton Bush School of Government and Public Service
Wendy Kreider CEHD, Dean's Office
Diane Graham Health and Kinesiology
Jimmy T. Keeton Nutrition and Food Science
Lisa Perrott Educational Psychology
Robert Nevels Electrical Engineering
Kevin McGinnis Career Center
Carl Gabbard Health and Kinesiology
Aaron Becker Information and Operations Mgmt.
Cindy Raisor Bush School of Government and Public Service
Ben Welch Business Center for Executive Development
Maurice Dennis Health and Kinesiology
John H. Painter Electrical Engineering
Jerry Vinson Engineering Design - Emeritus Walter Buchanan Engineering Technology William Bedford Clark English Elizabeth Robinson English
David Flint Management
Jane Nelson Bolin School of Rural Public Health Kerrie Green Social and Behavioral Health Monty Dozier Soil and Crop Sciences
Liesl Wesson Management
Mike Nelson TEES Information Systems
Paul Busch Marketing
Andrea Kishne TEES Smart Grid Center
Stephen McDaniel Marketing
Emily Binks-Cantrell TLAC
Leslie Seipp Marketing
Amanda Ros University Libraries
Rob Rahm Mathematics Robert Gustafson Mathematics David Manuel Mathematics
Nancy Simpson Mays Business School
Loren Skow Veterinary Medicine
LTG (Ret) John Van Alstyne Mays Business School
Michael Willard Veterinary Medicine
Michael Alexander Mays Grad Program
Judith M. Ball Veterinary Pathobiology
Terry Larsen Environmental Design
Janet Parish Mays Marketing
Russell K. Biles Family and Community Medicine
Kenneth Pierce Veterinary Pathobiology - Emeritus
Walter L. Bradley Mechanical Engineering - Emeritus
Karen Snowden Veterinary Pathobiology
George McIlhaney Family and Community Medicine
Dave Claridge Mechanical Engineering
James E. Womack Veterinary Pathobiology
L. Roy Cornwell Mechanical Engineering - Emeritus
Jim Jensen Veterinary Physiology
Catherine McIntyre English Language Institute (CLLA)
Lamar McNew Family and Community Medicine Matt Poling Family and Community Medicine David Segrest Family and Community Medicine
representation of the LGBTQ+ community in the media.” Jackson said there have been cases in which there is more representation regarding love in all communities. They said some media outlets and entertainment sources have been more proactive in showcasing the many different ways love is seen in the world. “Recently I think we’re seeing more media and commercials and other stuff representing different kinds of love,” Jackson said. “Shows like ‘Parks and Recreation’ that depict Galentine’s Day I think did a really good job of showing that love isn’t just romantic or physical.”
GALENTINE’S CONTINUED love of self rather than love from a romantic relationship is the basis of the holiday said Taylor Tyson, A&M’s Women’s Resource Center director. “We’ve seen a shift in recent years to it being okay to be single, and to people not necessarily needing or wanting the love of a relationship,” Tyson said. “This day is about celebrating all of the different types of love
PARKER CONTINUED “Wildcard” tour and with a new single out called “Pretty Heart” teasing for the release of a new record. McCollum said even with the continued growth of his career, he always finds himself making the trip back to College Station. “Venues like Hurricane Harry’s are one of a kind,” McCollum said. “To be able to come to places like this and do two nights in a row is so special. There’s always so much energy and so many people who have been supporting me and my music since I started.” With several Hurricane Harry’s performances notched into his belt, McCollum said he isn’t afraid of the kind of intimacy the venue is known for. “You can see everyone’s faces and know they’re having a great time,” McCollum said. “I want everyone to feel like they came out and had a great time with a room full of new friends and made some memories.” This weekend’s performance will mark the fourth time Texas Tech graduate Grant Gilbert has taken the Hurricane Harry’s stage. He said the venue is one of his alltime favorite places to perform. “I love just getting to hang out with the people in the crowd, going up to the merch booth selling t-shirts and having drinks with everyone,” Gilbert said. “I mean, I’ve even judged Halloween costume contests at Harry’s. I love it there.” Gilbert has opened for Stoney LaRue, Turnpike Troubadours and the Josh Abbott Band. Although this isn’t his first run-in with McCollum and his crew, Gilbert said he will always admire the way he and his band are treated by the rising star, no matter the size or scale of the show they’re playing. “He’s always done such a great job of
Coleman Posey, an anthropology junior and student employee at the LGBTQ+ Pride Center, said he has seen more commercial displays of LGBTQ+ couples and appreciates the positive attention the community has received from it. “I think most recently I would reference the Super Bowl,” Posey said. “There was a bunch of LGBTQ+ representation in Super Bowl ads. It’s cool to see that more relevant now than it has been previously.” Jackson said it is crucial to recognize the importance of diversity in Valentine’s Day across the spectrums of gender, sexual orientation, race and ethnicity. “We can have love in so many different ways,” Jackson said. “The conversation is moving forward.”
and support that you have around you. It’s about showing appreciation.” Galentine’s Day is not about rejecting romantic love or even about trying to change Valentine’s Day. Instead, it is about ensuring everyone in your life is appreciated and thanked for their love and support — even yourself. “There’s more than one type of love,” Justynski said. “It’s not all about romantic love. There’s love between friends and selflove that is also very important.” making sure me and my band are taken care of,” Gilbert said. “We get to hang out for a little bit after the show and everything, but I just like taking notes from the way he performs and the way he works the crowd and entertains.” The Aggieland venue has allowed Gilbert to perform with the artists he grew up loving. Last time he played at the venue, Gilbert got to mark “Play with Pat Green” off of his bucket list. “I grew up a huge Pat Green fan,” Gilbert said. “All of those guys we get to open up for, we’re still the young guys for them. But playing with those bands, it’s just as fun for me to get to watch the shows as it is to play them.” A frequent Hurricane Harry’s patron, business management senior Hayden Baker is getting the opportunity to play the scuffed and scarred stage instead of using it as just a dance floor. “Harry’s is such a great environment for music,” Baker said. “I remember being there on a Thursday night back in the fall, just doing some dancing with my buddy. I was standing up on the stage thinking about how cool it would be to get to play up there, and now look where we are.” Baker and his band are planning on performing seven of the 10 songs currently planned for his upcoming full-length album, with songs like “How Many Beers” and “How It Used to Be” also on the setlist. Thankful for the gig he’s been given, Baker said he wants to use his music to connect with at least one person in the crowd Friday night. “That’s one of the best feelings in the world,” Baker said. “When someone comes up to you after a show and says, ‘Hey man, that song you sang about that one thing, that one really hit me.’ That’s what you do this for. That’s what you write these songs for.”
Joe Arosh Veterinary Integrative Biosciences Sakhila B. Arosh Veterinary Integrative Biosciences
Craig Kallendorf English & International Studies
LGBTQ+ CONTINUED
Donald A. Sweeney Urban Planning
Eli Jones Mays Business School
Elizabeth Tebeaux English
LGBTQ+ Pride Center coordinator Tori Jackson said the media has recently given more representation of non-romantic love during Valentine’s Day.
Harry Hogan Mechanical Engineering
J.D. McCrady Veterinary Physiology - Retired
Tillie McVay Mechanical Engineering
Nicola Ritter VIBS
Gerald Morrison Mechanical Engineering
Richard Davison, Jr. Visualization
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 toTexas A&M University by men and women of various race, ethnic group, and cultural background who share the Christian faith.
Daily Deals!
tuesdays and thursdays!
$2.99
TUESDAY/ THURSDAY TRIO Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, Fettuccine Alfredo and Cheese or Pepperoni Pizza Slice
sundays!
$3.49
SPAGHETTI AND MEATBALL OR FETTUCCINE ALFREDO Regularly $7.49
COLLEGE STATION: 400 Harvey Rd. Price and participation may vary by location. Limited time only. Fazoli’s and logo are federally registered trademarks of Fazoli’s System Management, LLC Copyright © Fazoli’s 2470 Palumbo Drive, Lexington, KY 40509-1117
SPORTS
3
The Battalion | 2.13.20
Megan Cusick — THE BATTALION
The Texas A&M women’s swimming and diving team is competing for their fifth consecutive SEC Championship title.
Aggies ride success into conference championship Belousova, Aggies head to Auburn for swimming, diving SEC title meet By Christi Koellner @KoellnerChristi Texas A&M men’s and women’s swimming and diving teams will compete in the SEC Championships from Feb. 18 to 22 at James E. Martin Aquatic Center in Auburn, Alabama. The No. 21 women are aiming to earn their fifth consecutive championship while the No. 4 men hope to best their fourth-place finish from last season. The dual meets this season have been stepping stones to get to the conference meet. SECs are five-day events and are an emotional rollercoaster for many swimmers and divers, men’s head swim coach Jay Holmes said. “We want to go in and compete at the highest level,” Holmes said. “We are representing Texas A&M. It’s a fight we have prepared for and one we are thrilled to be a part of. I’m thrilled our guys have the opportunity to get in there and do it.” Senior and team captain Benjamin Walker placed first in the 200-yard breaststroke at the 2019 SEC Championships. While he said he hopes to defend his title, he also said his teammate, freshman Andres Puente, will be
his toughest competition. Puente beat Walker’s best time in the 200 breast by a couple hundredths of a second at the Art Adamson Invite in November. “This year is about teamwork, nothing else,” Walker said. “I just really want to score as many points as I can for the team; if that’s winning three events and scoring 90 points, I’m great with that. If it’s losing, hopefully only to my teammates, or getting second, I’m fine with that. I just want to score as many points as I can for my team, that’s my goal this year.” Reflecting on his freshman season, Walker said the team had improved immeasurably in the last four years. “Freshman year, I remember going into [SECs] having us ranked No. 8 out of 10 teams, now some are calling us the favorites,” Walker said. “I don’t know if I like calling ourselves the favorite because I like having that underdog mentality going into the meet, but it will be really fun to see what happens. I hope we have a trophy coming out of it.” Walker said the team’s goal is to bring a championship trophy home to Aggieland for Holmes, who is in his 33rd season with the Aggies and 15th season as their head coach. “I think the special thing about Jay is that he is here because he loves Texas A&M, he’s a great coach, and at the end of the day he is a true Aggie,” Walker said. “It would be very
GUEST COLUMN
Letting Values Take Flight Bob Jordan ’85, executive vice president of corporate services at Southwest Airlines, and his wife, Kelly ’86, set a powerful example for those around them. Instead of emphasizing these values with his words alone, he brings them to life through his actions. @Tyson Voelkel Bob’s wife, Kelly ’86, points to his practice of personally reaching out Howdy Ags, to employees to acknowledge their contributions as just one example In 2005, under the direction of of his compassionate leadership then-Texas A&M University Presstyle. ident Dr. Robert Gates, university As proud former students, the leadership set out to identify the Jordans give generously to Texas values that define Texas A&M on A&M through scholarships, proa level deeper than any one trafessorships and other outstanddition. After careful study, they ing gifts, including a lead gift for found six traits that set Aggieland renovations to Aggie Park, because apart: Respect, Excellence, Leader- they want future Aggies to inherit ship, Loyalty, Integrity and Selfa university where they can learn less Service. Nearly 15 years later, to act as members of a community we still use these core values to bigger than themselves. They have communicate the principles we also been inspired by Aggies before identify with as Aggies; but how do them who jumped at opportunities we make sure we are truly living to help others. them? The Jordans can live the organiBob Jordan ’85 has spent much zational values at Southwest and of his more than 30-year career at Texas A&M because they recognize Southwest Airlines asking the same that these standards are groundquestion about his company’s ed in the greater human values of values. When he joined Southwest selfless service, sincerity, altruin 1988, it was still something of an ism, and a strong sense of right underdog in the airline industry. and wrong. By defining what they Because Southwest gave employees believe in and challenging thema personal stake in the compaselves every day to act accordingly, ny, they worked together to push the Jordans set a sky-high bar for the airline forward despite heavy their own leadership and a shining competition. This created a unique example for all Aggies who aspire culture among employees that to do the same. Bob compares to that of his alma mater, Texas A&M. Thanks and Gig ’em, As the executive vice president of corporate services, Bob’s duties Tyson Voelkel ’96 today revolve around maintaining President, Texas A&M that culture by reinforcing SouthFoundation west’s three living values: having a “warrior’s spirit,” a “servant’s Paid Advertisement heart” and a fun-loving attitude.
Tyson Voelkel
special to see him bring a trophy back home to the school that he loves.” The women’s swimming and diving team has won the SECs each of the past four years. They are hoping to continue their streak, but this year is more difficult than others with injuries and illnesses, said women’s head swim coach Steve Bultman. “The SECs is an opportunity for some of the other girls to step up,” Bultman said. “They have a chance with others being injured to take charge. SECs are exciting, both men and women are there, stands are packed, it’s as loud as it can be. If you can’t get excited to swim fast there, you can’t get excited to swim fast anywhere.” Senior Anna Belousova was the SEC champion in the 100-yard breaststroke her sophomore year and 200 breast her junior year. She said her goal is to replicate that success in her final season. “It’s definitely an honor to represent a school that has been champions four times already, and we would like to keep up and do everything in our power to keep up the fight until the very last day of our very last race,” Belousova said. Men’s and women’s diving coach Jay Lerew said he is looking forward to another successful conference championship. Texas A&M currently has the top two divers in the SEC, both of whom compete at the world
level, with junior Kurtis Mathews earning a spot on the World Team and freshman Victor Povzner earning a spot on the Russian National Team. “The SEC Championships is a team event, so every point counts,” Lerew said. “With diving, we have always done very well, and I hope to continue the phase.” Men’s swim coach Jay Holmes said the SECs are different from the NCAAs because while only a select number of swimmers and divers can qualify to compete at the national meet, the whole team is together at the conference championships. The men’s team is heading into the championship slate ranked No. 4, their highest since 2001. While the ranking is a recognition of the success the team had thus far, Holmes said the Aggies still have a long way to go before the season can truly be deemed successful. “The ranking is a nice projection of what the team has done so far, but it’s what happens at the SECs and NCAAs that count, that’s the stuff people remember,” Holmes said. “The job at hand is to go to the SEC Championships, compete for a conference championship and get as many people as we can to NCAAs.” Live updates on the SEC Championship will be available on 12thman.com, and it will be available to watch on SEC Network+.
4
The Battalion | 2.13.20
OPINION
4
Creative Commons
Opinion writer Caleb Powell said high schoolers should be given more information about contraceptives like condoms and birth control pills.
What we don’t tell teenagers about sex Opinion writer Caleb Powell says abstinence-only education in high school is harmful to young adults’ understanding of sexual health Caleb Powell
T
@calebpowell23
he birds and the bees: a conversation every parent looks forward to having with their child. Although uncomfortable, the discussion about sex is significant. The outlook youth have on sex determines how they construct relationships, how they treat their partners and how they become intimate. Accordingly, there is an incredibly nuanced and comprehensive curriculum to ensure teenagers are equipped to make the correct decision, right? Well, not exactly. My parents and I did not discuss intimacy often, and I tuned them out when we did. School was not much help either. I attended sex education classes for four years, and the only class which was helpful was the one which I learned the science behind hormones and sex. Throughout middle school, my instructors crammed abstinence down my throat. They forced us to view horrific pictures of genitals with STIs. I never learned anything about the emotional intimacy sex introduces into a relationship or about how to practice safe sex. Considering Americans have an average of 7.2 sexual partners in their
lifetime, we need to examine how effective abstinence education is and explore other alternatives. Since 1996, the federal government has spent about $2.1 billion on abstinence-only curricula. Unfortunately, these programs have been widely ineffective. The American Journal of Public Health’s research found that abstinence-only education does not lower teen birth rates. Teenagers that receive no sex education or abstinence-only education are more likely to report teenage pregnancies than those in comprehensive sex education programs. Therefore, schools should consider adopting alternative programs. I was never interested in being sexually active in high school, partially because of disinterest and because I had no one to have sex with. But now that I am in college, both the desire and opportunity are present. Unfortunately, I and many others are not equipped with the necessary knowledge to make a mature and informed decision about the right time to become sexually active. The lack of information for teenagers who become sexually active is the most significant flaw of abstinence-only programs. For one, only 20 states require information in sex education programs
to be medically accurate. Kids should know basic anatomy and physiology, especially when many become sexually active when they grow older. If we do not teach children how sex and puberty works, they will learn about it from places on the internet. I think it is safe to say those websites are not as informative as a classroom. Medical knowledge is not the only information missing from the classroom; many abstinence-only programs do not address how to have safe sex. Schools need to discuss condoms, birth control and other contraceptives to ensure teenagers protect themselves from STIs and prevent adolescent pregnancies. Some research (albeit older studies) shows teenagers in comprehensive sex education programs are more likely to delay sex. Furthermore, they tend to have fewer partners and use condoms more often. Therefore, we should transition to teaching a curriculum based around both safe sex and abstinence. The system should empower teenagers to make informed decisions, not demand they live a certain way. One of the things I wish I had learned when I was in high school was how sex changes the dynamics with a significant other. We never discussed any of the
emotional implications sex changes when two people are in a relationship. As it stands, only 11 states teach about consent and healthy relationships. Consent and relationship education are some of the most critical aspects of a sex education curriculum. Teenagers must know where to draw the line between rape and consensual sex. For instance, not all students understand a drunk person cannot give consent or one can rescind permission during a sexual act. Also, teenagers should know how relationships function. When you introduce sex, it can be for either genuine or manipulative reasons, and sexually active teenagers need to see the distinction. Without teaching the difference in toxic and healthy relationships, many teenagers may remain in physically and emotionally abusive relationships. We must equip the next generation with the knowledge they need to decide whether they want to become sexually active. Abstinence-only programs do not deter sex, so we should ensure that teenagers know they have the option and that they make the right choice for the right reason. Caleb Powell is a general engineering sophomore and opinion writer for The Battalion.
classifieds
an ad Phone 979.845.0569 Suite L400, Memorial Student Center Texas A&M University
When
to call 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday Insertion deadline: 1 p.m. prior business day
to todays puzzles
3bd/3ba duplex, big backyard, close to campus, pets allowed, call 979-693-4900. Affordable 1bd apartment with granite, close to campus, on TAMU bus route, call 979-693-4900. Brand new 1bd/1ba, walking distance to campus, call 979-693-4900. Less then a mile from campus, fully furnished, only $500/per room, call 979-693-4900. Luxury condo, close to campus, brand new, granite countertops, with wood floors, contact 979-693-4900. Newly remodeled 6 bedroom home. 3 rooms for rent, close to campus, safe neighborhood. 1 available now, 2 available on 8/1/2020 All rooms unfurnished with own private bathroom. Rent $850 plus utilities. Call or email Debbie for details, debbie@wisenbaker.com, 713-7022353.
FOR SALE Architecture drawing table, for sale, like new. $75. Call 949-2915685.
$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.
to todays puzzles
FOR RENT
Private Party Want ads
ANSWERS
ANSWERS
Place
SPECIAL
see ads at thebatt.com
HELP WANTED Athletic men for calendars, books, etc. $75-$150/hr, up to $500/day. No experience. aggieresponse@gmail.com ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING graduate student or faculty needed to be an Expert Witness for patent infringement lawsuits. We are looking for someone with knowledge of wireless communication networks including self-optimized networks (SON) and Location Based Services (LBS). Paying $100$400 an hour, part-time. Most of the work can be done at home. See our website at Traxcell.com. Call Jeff at (469) 777-2217. Equity Real Estate, part-time office help needed. Hours are 11-5. Apply in person. 110 Navarro, Suite 200, College Station. Immediate opening. Looking to get real-estate license or have license but looking for a company to work for? Call 979-693-4900 or send resume to curtis@aafbcs.com.
PETS 9-month kitten/cat, stunningly beautiful long-haired gray tabby w/green eyes. Super friendly & loves everybody. Is wormed, has all shots, neutered & uses box. Lives outdoors, but wants to be indoors & part of a loving family. Text for pictures. 979-777-0518. $40/OBO
HELP WANTED Student Ambassadors Wanted! Searching for student ambassadors for a safer, non-toxic skincare and beauty brand. Referral commissions up to 35%. Must be selfstarter, and passionate about clean beauty products! Commitment as little as 5 hours per week or less. Training provided. Interested ambassadors can email elizabeth@freshtexan.com.
HELP WANTED The Battalion Advertising Office is hiring for our Street Team to distribute publications and advertising flyers. Work around your class schedule on campus! Interested applicants should come by our office located in the MSC, Suite 400, from 10 am-4 pm, for more information. Ask to speak with Grady Guest or Douglas Pils. See our job posting in Jobs For Aggies.
NEWS
5
The Battalion | 2.13.20
Megan Cusick — THE BATTALION
Additional dining locations to be added in Fall 2020 include Chick-fil-A, Copperhead Jack’s and Houston Street Subs.
More Chick-fil-A locations opening around campus University Dining, Chartwells unveils plans for additional dining locations By Tarni Hewage Chartwells revealed plans for the addition of Chick-fil-A to the MSC and a dining hall on West Campus. University Dining and Chartwells started construction in December 2019 on the MSC cafeteria to add a Chick-fil-A, which will occupy the spaces previously housing Zatar and Brazos Valley BBQ. The date of completion has not been announced yet, but students can expect the location to be finalized by fall 2020. District Marketing Manager for Chartwells
DRAGGIELAND CONTINUED they want, but the fact that they are doing it on campus in [Rudder Theatre] is abhorrent to me,” McBride said. “It encourages the objectification and sexualization of women, and I’m not for that at all, especially on my campus.” However, visualization sophomore Caysey Mackey, an assigned female at birth (AFAB) queen who uses the name Jessie B Darling, said drag is about self-expression and positivity, not aimed to disrespect or discriminate against people. “I am a [cisgendered] woman, and I love drag, and I do drag,” Mackey said. “I know many queens and kings personally that not only fight for the LGBTQ+ community, we fight for women, too, like women’s equality and rights. I have never, ever been to a show or performed at a show where anybody was disrespecting anybody.” Participant applications for DRAGgieland state lyrics and performance content must be
Stephanie Denson said the decision to add a Chick-Fil-A to the cafeteria took six months. “We did our own internal surveys that we do every fall as the dining services for this campus, but then the MSC group did a brand preference survey as well, and they kind of both pointed to that’s what students want on this campus,” Denson said. While choosing a new dining facility, Chick-fil-A presented a variety of positive contributions to campus dining, said Denson. “I think it goes back to it being an incredible brand partner and just brand recognition on this campus, it was mentioned highly in our surveys,” Denson said. “It is a really popular brand, not just in this state but in this part of the country, and really popular on college campuses. It has a good speed of service, con-
sistent quality, affordability and things like that are really few of the reasons we wanted to get them on this side of campus.” Biomedical sciences freshman Cristina Harvey said the new Chick-fil-A’s proximity to areas the Underground location couldn’t easily reach is a benefit, but refrained from giving her full support due to the lack of variety it causes for campus dining options. “I think a lot of students would like another [Chick-fil-A] that’s closer to the center of campus, but we could probably use something different,” Harvey stated. “I would like it because it’s closer to my dorm.” Also coming soon is a dining hall on West Campus to accompany the Ag Cafe. It is set to include four dining options, including a full-service Chick-fil-A, Copperhead Jack’s,
Houston Street Subs and a salad location as well as a full-service Starbucks. Dirk Anderson, director of operations for retail dining, said the decision process has taken a year and a half of intensive research. “There’s a whole process,” Anderson said. “[The] university has to approve the funding, and then it comes to us and we start looking at the concepts. I’d say it’s definitely been over a year and a half. We had to have a balance with Creekside [Market] as well since it’s just down the street.” The dining hall on West Campus is set to open in fall of 2021 with an open layout and a large seating area. “It’s just really neat, open space, community-style seating all throughout,” Anderson said. “It’s going to be a beautiful location.”
rated PG-13. This requirement means the event will not contain nudity, stripping or movements that are sexually-oriented, and the radio-edit of songs is preferred. Biology sophomore and drag queen Lily Fables is a competitor in DRAGgieland and said the First Amendment allows everyone to express themselves however they choose. “Drag is the way I’m choosing to express myself to the world outside,” Fables said. “Also, everyone, whether they want to believe it or not, is in drag. We all put on a mask of some kind. Whether your mask is you throwing on a hoodie for the day and acting like you don’t know anybody or it’s throwing on a pair of drag 301’s [fake eyelashes] and a thigh-high boot. It’s up to you. We’re all in drag.” Mackey said she has performed in many comedy drags shows such as “Movie Muffs” in Houston that aim to make people feel good and help them have a good time. Drag has been a liberating way for her to be a more outgoing version of herself. “I feel so much more confident in drag
than I do out of drag,” Mackey said. “When I’m performing, I am a completely different person. If that’s disrespectful to women, then I don’t know what is. Maybe [more] women need to get in drag for the first time and experience it for themselves because it is incredible.” Protesters have also voiced concerns about the funding of DRAGgieland. Mackey said the host, drag queen from RuPaul’s Drag Race Monique Heart, is the only person being paid for the event, and the competitors are there to perform, not to receive compensation. Fables confirmed this. “It’s a privately funded event that’s funded by ticket sales and not the university,” Fables said. “It’s not funded by anyone’s tuition, anyone’s tax dollars, it’s literally just [people] spending their own pocket money on this.” Tickets to the event have been available for purchase for the last two and a half months through the MSC Box Office. General engineering sophomore Erik Fontaney, president of MUA Ags — a student organization with members that are volunteering and perform-
ing at DRAGgieland — said there was a dramatic increase in ticket sales after the protests began. “This petition has really just brought more excitement for the event,” Fontaney said. “Sunday morning before anything happened, there [were] 424 tickets sold, and then as of [Tuesday] morning, the ticket sales were at 589.” Since the petition began on Feb. 9, DRAGgieland has sold out all 750 seats in Rudder Theatre. Mackey said she understands the protesters have every right to oppose the event because it is their right, but that should not stop the people who want to perform or attend from doing so. “Yeah, the right to protest is in the first amendment as well, and they have every right to protest,” Mackey said. “They can protest all day long, but my problem comes with them trying to take it away. Just because you don’t agree with something, doesn’t mean you can take it away from other people that want to enjoy it.”
LET’S BE FRIENDS
@THEBATTONLINE
THE BATTALION
@THEBATTONLINE
BATTALION MULTIMEDIA
THEBATT.COM
2020-2021 PARKING PERMIT
DESIGN CONTEST
WINNER! Zachary H. Junior in Visualization Thank you to all participants. We appreciate your time and talents! TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY
Transportation Services
NEWS
6
The Battalion | 2.13.20
TRUMP DODGES REMOVAL
via White House Photostream
Presidents Andrew Johnson, Bill Clinton and now Donald Trump have all been acquitted of impeachment charges by the Senate.
Hurd, Flores comment on Senate’s vote to acquit, what happens next By Brady Stone @bradystonex On Jan. 5, Donald J. Trump became the third sitting president in United States history to be acquitted of impeachment charges. The Republican-controlled Senate voted 52-48 in favor of acquitting the president on Impeachment Article I: Abuse of Power and 53-47 on Impeachment Article II: Obstruction of Justice. This acquittal comes after a Dec. 18 decision by the U.S. House of Representatives to impeach Trump with a vote of 230-197 on Article I and 229-198 on Article II. Representative Will Hurd, a congressman from the 23rd District of Texas and former Texas A&M student body president, said on
the House floor before the vote on the articles of impeachment he would not support the removal of the president after initially being undecided. “Throughout this process, the American people have learned of bungling foreign policy decisions, but we have not heard evidence beyond a reasonable doubt of bribery or extortion,” Hurd said. “Today, we have seen a rushed process divide our country. Today, accusations have been hurled at each other questioning one another’s integrity. Today, a dangerous precedent will be set — impeachment becoming a political tool.” Hurd, a former CIA officer, voted nay on both articles of impeachment and said Americans should focus on their similarities rather than their differences. “This institution has a fabled history of passing legislation that has not only changed our country but has inspired the world,” Hurd said. “This feat has been possible because this
experiment we call America has one perpetual goal — make a more perfect union. We can contribute to this history if we recognize the simple fact that way more unites our country than divides us. Tomorrow can we start focusing on that.” Trump’s acquittal came after Senate Republicans took an unprecedented vote to deny witnesses during the trial for the first time in history. Representative Bill Flores, congressman for Texas District 17, which includes College Station, said he believes the impeachment trial was a targeted attack on the president with partisan motives. “Today, the Senate acquitted President Trump and finally put an end to the House Democrats’ political impeachment trial,” Flores said in a statement. “After hearing evidence laid out by both sides, the Senate reached the same conclusion that House Republicans and some Democrats did, that this impeachment was a political hit-job meant to
overturn the 2016 election and influence this year’s election.” Utah Senator and the 2012 Republican Party presidential nominee, Mitt Romney became the first U.S. senator to vote to remove a president from his party. Flores said now that Trump has been acquitted, Congress will have the opportunity to address issues that Texans care about. “Americans want Congress to focus on bipartisan solutions to fix real-world problems,” Flores said. “It is my hope that with the impeachment sham behind us, we can now address the issues that hardworking Texan families care about most – border security, immigration, prescription drug prices, health care reform, pandemic defenses and infrastructure.” Neither Flores nor Hurd are seeking reelection in 2020, with 15 candidates running to fill Flores’ seat in District 17 and 16 candidates running to fill Hurd’s seat in District 23.
STUDENT BODY ELECTIONS
INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT POLICY WORKSHOP MOSBACHER INSTITUTE
CANDIDATE GUIDE TO BE PUBLISHED ON FEB. 17 Next week’s print distribution of The Battalion will be moved from Thursday, Feb. 20 to Monday, Feb. 17 to provide students with the student election candidate guide before voting begins. Important student election dates are as follows: A Yell Leader panel with this year’s candidates will be at 6 p.m. on
Now For the Hard Part: Alternative Paths to Building State Capability for Policy Implementation Monday, February 19, 2020
Senior Boot Bag
Presentation 5:30 p.m. Reception immediately following Historically, realizing key national development ambitions through reforms and policies aimed at building state capacity has proved insufficient. For example, helping students learn is actually more complex than providing educational ingredients like buildings, textbooks, and teachers. Dr. Woolcock will provide an alternative approach to building state capability, along with examples of this alternative in action.
Feb. 18 in the MSC Flag Room. A Student Body President debate with this year’s candidates will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 18 in the MSC Flag Room. Voting for student elections is available at vote.tamu.edu and will open on Feb. 20 at 9 a.m. and close on Feb. 21 at 12 p.m.
FEATURING MICHAEL WOOLCOCK
Price Includes Embroidered Logo and Name (More logos available)
Lead Social Scientist The World Bank’s Development Research Group
Shop for Little Aggies to an Aggie Xmas
etsy.com/shop/aggiesandbows by Charlotte, Reveille’s Seamstress Aggie Mom & Grandma
George H. W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum 1000 George Bush Drive West, College Station, Texas
bush.tamu.edu/mosbacher 979.845.1927
Located inside the office/store of:
A&B SELF STORAGE / A&B SALES - EMBROIDERY 1711 N Earl Rudder Fwy Bryan, TX 77803 979-778-2293 charboeg@yahoo.com
IT’S OK
NOT TO BE OK
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. Newsroom phone: 979-845-3315; E-mail: editor@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 979-845-2687. For classified advertising, call 979-845-0569. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Email: battads@thebatt.com.
Surprise your Valentine Thu 13th - Fri 14th!
y a D s ’ e n i t n Vale Special
WE’RE HERE 1 Large 1 Topping “Heart-shaped” Pizza and a Brownie
1741 University Dr.
979-846-3600
Sun.- Thurs. 10am-Midnight
1740 Rock Prairie Rd.
979-680-0508 Fri.-Sat. 10am-1am
16
$
GOOD Thursday & Friday ONLINE PROMO CODE: BEMINE
caps.tamu.edu/helpline
THE BATTALION is published on Thursdays during the 2019 fall semester (except University holidays and exam periods) at Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843. Offices are in Suite L400 of the Memorial Student Center.
Subscriptions: A part of the University Advancement Fee entitles each Texas A&M student to pick up a single copy of The Battalion. First copy free, additional copies $1.
For A&M Sterling Jewelry: stores.ebay.com/charboeg979
Suicide Awareness & Prevention Office
Samantha Mahler, Editor-in-Chief
00
Thin crust un-cut pizza Good Only 02/13 - 02/14