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¡Caliente! event attracts students Free food, live music and dancing attracted large crowds at The Zone at Kyle Field. The Association of Latino Professionals in Finance and Accounting (ALPFA) promoted Hispanic heritage at Texas A&M with their ¡Caliente! avent Wednesday evening. Watch a video of event at thebatt.com.
inside voices | 5b What 2020 means for students
● thursday,
september 15, 2011
● serving
texas a&m since 1893
● first paper free – additional copies $1 ● © 2011 student media
Vision check University sets sights on Vision 2020, aiming to become one of the nation’s 10 best public universities
Former Speaker of the Student Senate Hilary Albrecht gives her opinion of Vision 2020 and explains why this university needs students to start paying attention.
campus news
Residents evacuate due to fire A brushfire started in Grimes County at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, causing 20 residents to evacuate their homes. According to Sheriff Donald Sowell, the cause of the 68-acre fire is unknown. “Residents saw a lot of smoke and fire that started in the pasture on the east side of FM 244, getting really close to their houses and the local day care center,” Sowell said. No injuries were reported and residents were allowed back into the area at about 2:15 p.m. after fire response teams from the Texas Forest Services and volunteer fire departments flooded the scene. “Fire resources were on it extremely quickly,” Sowell said. “One airplane dropped fire retardant on the area and two helicopters collected water from the lakes and dropped it. It’s been extremely dry, and Grimes County just recovered from a recent fire that sparked on Labor Day — the firemen have been real busy in our area.” Natalee Blanchat, Staff Writer
Jordan Williford The Battalion
V
ision 2020 has been the driving force behind the improvements and changes made to Texas A&M University since the concept’s conception in 1999. Then-University President Ray Bowen proposed that Texas A&M venture to achieve a culture of excellence and become one of the nation’s 10 best public universities.
“I am pleased to say that we have made significant progress in both of these areas,” said Bowen Loftin, current University president. Following the strategic plan for Vision 2020, administrators first identified which public universities were setting the standard for the remainder of the country, and why. They used two standards to approach the issue. The first approach was to consider six institutions that were highly ranked in two popular collegiate ranking systems, the U.S. News & World Report and the National Research Council, and compare their strengths and weaknesses against those of A&M. Administrators decided to use three University of California System schools — Berkeley, San Diego, and Los Angeles — along with Michigan, North
Carolina — Chapel Hill, and Wisconsin — Madison. The second approach pooled “leading academic counterparts” — schools that share many of A&M’s characteristics including student population and emphasis in research, engineering, the sciences and other academic disciplines. Among these schools were Georgia Tech, Illinois, Penn State, Ohio State, Florida and Texas. In addition to drawing comparisons, University administration has prioritized periodic reviews of the progress being made on specific goals and benchmarks of Vision 2020. “One of my first actions after being named president was to initiate a midterm review of Vision 2020 that will guide us during the remaining decade of this comprehensive effort,” Loftin said.
See 2020 on page 4a Source: U.S. News and World Report Christina Fuentes and Evan Andrews — THE BATTALION
business
social media
Shuttle hauls students to Northgate
A&M partners with Foursquare Alec Goetz
Kevin Smith The Battalion Northgate has a new addition to its fleet of transit services. Among numerous taxis and 15-passenger vans, students have another option to get to and from Northgate: Rockin’ J’s Night Shuttle. Rockin’ J’s runs much like the daily buses that bring students to and from campus. The shuttle leaves from Northgate and follows Transportation Services’ Route 36, “Cotton Bowl.” The shulttle travels on Wellborn, George Bush, Marion Pugh and Luther, and loops back through Wellborn to rest in front of Paddock Lane Bar on Northgate. The official term for the Night Shuttle is a “jitney” — a vehicle used to carry many passengers, distinct from a taxi, which only carries a few. James Byrne, class of 2008, owns and operates Rockin’ J’s. He said the
Kevin Smith — THE BATTALION
James Byrne’s night shuttle offers a transit option. idea is implemented elsewhere effectively. “I’ve traveled a lot outside the country and it seems that everywhere but here knows how to do public transportation right,” Byrne said. Bryne said he always thought about bringing these ideas back to College Station
Comm+unity Presents
The Love In Between Tour Featuring
MATT MAHER
mattmahermusic.com
Pg. 1a-09.15.11.indd 1
“More than 200 faculty, staff, students and friends of Texas A&M served on teams that helped refine our benchmarking process and update the framework by which we can achieve the highest possible impact in our teaching, research and service missions.” In addition to the mid-term review, other initiatives have been taken to ensure the University’s progress towards the primary goal of Vision 2020 — to be one of the top 10 public universities in the nation. Currently, A&M sits 19th among public institutions, tied with public universities Florida, Connecticut, and Pittsburgh, according to the recently released U.S. News and World Report rankings. “These efforts included the Academic Master Plan, which, with input from the
See Shuttle on page 5a
The Battalion Texas A&M is changing how they interact with students through social media. In July, the social networking site Foursquare designated A&M as a launch partner for their location-based “Universities 2.0” network program. The partnership introduced custom university badges for A&M and 19 other schools. The A&M badge, “I’m a Fightin’ Texas Aggie,” can be unlocked by users who check into 25 venues across campus. Universities don’t reveal the specific locations required to obtain the badge, but they give hints along the way. Amid stiff competition, Foursquare has carved a niche
for itself in the increasingly crowded online networking scene. The site allows members to post updates about their current whereabouts by “checking in” at locations including restaurants, public parks, campus buildings, libraries, schools, athletic venues, airports, parking lots and historical monuments. By doing so, participants earn points and various badges. “Foursquare isn’t offering a site to compete with Facebook or Twitter as much as it is a different kind of social networking experience,” said Michael Green, senior visualization major. “Those networks focus on telling your friends what you are doing. Foursquare focuses See Foursquare on page 5a
At Christ United Methodist Church SEPT 16th @ 7PM For Tickets go to itickets.com or visit Christ-UMC.org
9/15/11 1:28 AM
b! thebattalion 09.15.2011 page1b
ACL lineup Christina Fuentes — THE BATTALION
music
To see the full list of artists for the weekend, visit http://www.aclfestival.com/
130-band music fest keeps Austin weird this weekend
Friday ◗ Foster the People: Did you jam to “Pumped Up Kicks” this summer? A perfect fit if you want to savor the fading fringes of summer.
◗ Delta Spirit: A heartfelt, melodic slice of Americana. These guys know how to both tone it down and kick it into overdrive, channeling Bob Dylan and The Strokes.
◗ Bright Eyes: The band released a new album this year, The People’s Key, which expands upon their folky angst with jangling 80s guitars and buzz-saw synths. This may be Bright Eyes’ final touring cycle, so see these legends before they’re gone.
◗ Kanye West: Need I say more? It’s Kanye, people. Go see a genius in action. ◗ Coldplay: The band consistently makes music audience’s love. An arena-sized spectacle if there ever was one, Coldplay is one band you can’t miss.
Saturday rocker turned folk singer, will entertain with his emotional songs set to delicately strummed acoustic guitar. catchy rock seemingly made for the radio, but not in a bad way. Catch them before they hit it big.
◗ Randy Newman: You’ve got a friend in Randy Newman. This veteran has scored dozens of films, recorded over ten albums, and is a living musical legend. Young the Giant
◗ Fitz and the Tantrums: A fun, funky throwback to the 70s. Absolutely guaranteed to be s fun sets to experience this weekend ◗ Iron & Wine: Organic, lush and introspective. If you’re in the mood to be blown away by expertly intricate folk ballads, this is your band. ◗ Skrillex: Dub-step is the latest phenomenon in the realm of electronic music and Skrillex is carrying its banner. If strobe lights, heart-shaking bass and mind-bending electronica are your thing, go see Skrillex. ◗ Stevie Wonder: The man has twentytwo Grammy’s. Go see this legend in action; you won’t be disappointed.
Coldplay
Want to live in the city that never sleeps? And work for the firm that can help you grow professionally and personally? Emilie did. That’s why she started her career in New York with KPMG. See why. Watch Emilie’s story at www.kpmg-go.com/MyLife. To learn more about opportunities with KPMG in New York, contact your local KPMG recruiter. kpmgcampus.com
◗ The Head and the Heart: Three part harmonies balanced by acoustic instruments with pop sensibility. ◗Chiddy Bang: The rapping half of Chiddy Bang, Chiddy Anamege, recently broke the Guinness World Record for longest freestyle rap (9 hours, 16 minutes, 22 seconds).
◗ Young the Giant: Huge,
You @KPMG in NYC
Pg. 1b-09.15.11.indd 1
Sunday
◗ City and Colour: Band leader Dallas Green, a hardcore-
Stevie Wonder
◗ ◗ Fleet Foxes: From their self-titled debut album to this years’ Helplessness Blues, Fleet Foxes all but solidified their place on top of the indie-folk world. Go for the beautiful, soaring harmonies and lush instrumentation. Stay for one of the best bands ACL has to offer. ◗ Arcade Fire: Who is Arcade Fire? Millions were asking Fleet Foxes after the band took the 2010 Grammy award for album of the year. When a band has sold out Madison Square Garden two nights in a row, you should probably see them whenever you have a chance — the grand finale to an epic, music-filled weekend. Owen Herterich, senior visualization major
© 2011 KPMG LLP, a Delaware limited liability partnership and the U.S. member firm of the KPMG network of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative (“KPMG International”), a Swiss entity. All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. The KPMG name, logo and “cutting through complexity” are registered trademarks or trademarks of KPMG International. 24789NSS
A
CL is king. Constantly boasting one of the most robust and exciting festival line-ups across the country, Austin City Limits has enough great music to please the concert-goer in everyone. 2011 is an especially great year for the festival; huge acts such as Coldplay, Kanye West, Arcade Fire and Stevie Wonder are among the musical royalty present. So, put on your most ironic band tee, pack up your Ray-Bans, and get ready for the greatest musical adventure you’ll likely experience this year.
9/14/11 10:57 PM
“TOP QUALITY AT THE BEST PRICE!”
Open Late After All Home Football Games Very Proud Supporter of
TEXAS A&M ATHLETICS “Locally Family Owned & Operated!”
fully ed p p i u eq
Aggies pick up their rings
1
This Friday is Aggie Ring Day, when many Aggies will pick up their rings to show that they are part of the Aggie Network.
Today slight chance of thunderstorms High: 95 Low: 70
2011
OPEN 7 Days A Week
2553 Texas Ave S.
979-693-8269
Double Quick Daiquiris to Go Bud Ice 30pk. cans
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Cherry Bombs & Jello Shots Ice cold beer and great wine selections! www.doublequickdrinks.com
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4501 Wellborn Rd., 1 mile north of Kyle Field
Cafe Eccell
University Dr. Church Wellborn
Find us on facebook at: facebook.com/doublequick.bcs
A&M Campus
Double Quick Natalie
Enjoy Blissful Heritage Cuisine! OPEN EVERYDAY! come try our
WASHINGTON (AP) — To soar far away from Earth and even on to Mars, NASA has dreamed up the world’s most powerful rocket, a behemoth that borrows from the workhorse liquid-fuel rockets that sent Apollo missions into space four decades ago. But with a price tag that some estimate at $35 billion, it may not fly with Congress. NASA Administrator Charles Bolden and several members of Congress on Wednesday unveiled the Obama administration’s much-delayed general plans for its rocket design, called the Space Launch System. Associated Press
Aggies play Baylor
A&M’s soccer team will compete against Baylor. The game will take place at 6:30 p.m. Friday at the Aggie Soccer Stadium.
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For updates go to thebatt.com ● Facebook ● Twitter@thebattonline
1911
Ohio State University president E. Gordon Gee will talk about the future of higher education at 5 p.m. at Rudder Theater.
3
Friday partly sunny high: 93 low: 70 Saturday partly sunny high: 95 low: 71 Sunday chance of storms high: 95 low: 71
courtesy of NOAA
news NASA unveils powerful rocket
The future of higher education
2
thebattalion 09.15.2011
Students connect with companies
Jay Kapadia — THE BATTALION
Students Engineering Council put on the Fall 2011 Engineering Career Fair Tuesday and Wednesday for more than 350 companies. The high standard of ‘Aggie Engineers’ attracts more companies to recruit every year.
Jay Kapadia — THE BATTALION
David Sutikno, senior industrial engineering major, meets Frito-Lay recruiter William Guajardo. Frito-Lay was one of the companies attending the engineering career fair.
LUNCH BUFFET 11-3pm Daily
DINNER 5-10pm Daily 2416 A Texas Ave S. 979-696-6560 www.tazcuisine.com
thebattalion THE INDEPENDENT STUDENT VOICE OF TEXAS A&M SINCE 1893
Robert Carpenter, Editor in Chief THE BATTALION (ISSN #1055-4726) is published daily, Monday through Friday during the fall and spring semesters and Monday through Thursday during the summer session (except University holidays and exam periods) at Texas A&M University. Periodicals Postage Paid at College Station, TX 77840. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Battalion, Texas A&M University, 1111 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843-1111. News: The Battalion news department is managed by students at Texas A&M University in Student Media, a unit of the Division of Student Affairs. News 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 979-8450569. 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 979845-2613.
Pg. 2a-09.15.11.indd 1
PUBLIC NOTICE
Proposition Number 8 authorizing the legislature to allow cities or counties to enter into (SJR 16) interlocal contracts with other citConstitutional Amendments ies or counties without the impo- SJR 16 would amend the constiSpecial Election November 8, 2011 sition of a tax or the provision of tution by requiring the legislature to provide for taxation of open a sinking fund.” Proposition Number 1 students, subject to certain conspace land devoted to water stewstitutional restrictions, including (SJR 14) ardship purposes on the basis of Proposition Number 6 a restriction as to the maximum its productive capacity. SJR 14 would amend the consti- principal amount of bonds out(HJR 109) tution to authorize the legislature standing at any one time. HJR 109 would amend the con- The proposed amendment would to provide the surviving spouse of appear on the ballot as follows: a 100 percent or totally disabled The proposed amendment would stitution to increase the amount “The constitutional amendment veteran with an exemption from appear on the ballot as follows: of principal that is available for providing for the appraisal for ad withdrawal from the permanent ad valorem taxation of all or part “The constitutional amendment valorem tax purposes of openof the market value of the surviv- providing for the issuance of gen- school fund each year and would space land devoted to water-stewalso clarify certain references ing spouse’s residence homestead eral obligation bonds of the State ardship purposes on the basis of as long as the surviving spouse of Texas to finance educational to that fund in the constitution. its productive capacity.” Increased access to the princihas not remarried, the property loans to students.” pal of the state public education was the residence homestead of Proposition Number 9 trust fund would be based upon the surviving spouse when the Proposition Number 4 HJR 109 granting the author(SJR 9) qualifying veteran died, and the (HJR 63) ity to consider alternative market property remains the residence SJR 9 would amend the constituhomestead of the surviving HJR 63 would amend the consti- calculations when determining tion to authorize the governor, on the amount of principal that is spouse. tution to authorize the legislature available for distribution to the the written recommendation and to permit a county to issue bonds advice of the Board of Pardons The proposed amendment would or notes to finance the develop- available school fund. HJR 109 and Paroles, to grant a pardon, appear on the ballot as follows: ment or redevelopment of an would also provide authority to reprieve, or commutation of pundistribute to the available school “The constitutional amendment unproductive, underdeveloped, ishment to a person who successauthorizing the legislature to or blighted area within the coun- fund annual revenue from school fully completes a term of deferred fund land or other properties up provide for an exemption from ty, and to pledge increases in ad adjudication community superviad valorem taxation of all or part valorem tax revenues imposed on to $300 million per year. sion. of the market value of the resi- property in the area by the county dence homestead of the surviving for repayment of such bonds or The proposed amendment would The proposed amendment would spouse of a 100 percent or totally notes. The amendment does not appear on the ballot as follows: “The constitutional amendment appear on the ballot as follows: disabled veteran.” provide independent authority for clarifying references to the per- “The constitutional amendment increasing ad valorem tax rates. manent school fund, allowing the authorizing the governor to grant Proposition Number 2 General Land Office to distribute a pardon to a person who successThe proposed amendment would (SJR 4) revenue from permanent school fully completes a term of deferred appear on the ballot as follows: adjudication community superviSJR 4 would amend the constitu- “The constitutional amendment fund land or other properties to sion.” tion to authorize the Texas Water authorizing the legislature to the available school fund to provide additional funding for pubDevelopment Board to issue ad- permit a county to issue bonds Proposition Number 10 ditional general obligation bonds or notes to finance the develop- lic education, and providing for an increase in the market value (SJR 37) on a continuing basis for one or ment or redevelopment of an unmore accounts of the Texas Water productive, underdeveloped, or of the permanent school fund for SJR 37 would amend the constiDevelopment Fund II, with the blighted area and to pledge for the purpose of allowing increased tution by extending the length of restriction that the total amount repayment of the bonds or notes distributions from the available the unexpired term that causes school fund.” of bonds outstanding at any time increases in ad valorem taxes imthe automatic resignation of cerdoes not exceed $6 billion. posed by the county on property tain local elected officeholders Proposition Number 7 in the area. The amendment does if they announce candidacy or The proposed amendment would not provide authority for increas(SJR 28) become candidates for another appear on the ballot as follows: ing ad valorem tax rates.” SJR 28 would amend the consti- office from one year to one year “The constitutional amendment tution by adding El Paso County and 30 days. providing for the issuance of adProposition Number 5 to the list of counties authorized ditional general obligation bonds (SJR 26) to create conservation and recla- The proposed amendment would by the Texas Water Development appear on the ballot as follows: Board in an amount not to exceed SJR 26 would amend the con- mation districts to develop parks “The constitutional amendment and recreational facilities fi$6 billion at any time outstand- stitution to authorize the legislato change the length of the unexnanced by taxes. ing.” ture to allow cities and counties pired term that causes the autoto enter into interlocal contracts The proposed amendment would matic resignation of certain electProposition Number 3 with other cities and counties appear on the ballot as follows: ed county or district officeholders without having to assess an ad (SJR 50) “The constitutional amendment if they become candidates for anvalorem tax and set aside a speciother office.” SJR 50 would amend the constitu- fied amount of funds for the pay- authorizing the legislature to tion to authorize the Texas Higher ment of costs under the interlocal permit conservation and reclamation districts in El Paso County Education Coordinating Board or contract. to issue bonds supported by ad Published by Secretary of State its successors to issue and sell Hope Andrade, general obligation bonds on a The proposed amendment would valorem taxes to fund the develwww.sos.state.tx.us, continuing basis for the purpose appear on the ballot as follows: opment and maintenance of parks 1-800-252-VOTE (8683). of financing educational loans for “The constitutional amendment and recreational facilities.” Brief Explanatory Statements of Proposed
9/15/11 12:58 AM
classifieds
thebattalion 9.15.2011 page2b PLACE
AN AD Phone 845-0569 or Fax 845-2678 The Grove, Bldg. #8901 Texas A&M University
ANNOUNCEMENTS Learn how to get your FREE self defense DVD, www.NightOwlFlashlights.com
AUTO I buy vehicles, running or not running. 979-778-1121. New/Pre-Owned Autos, VM, Mazda, Hyundai, BMW, All makes & models, Call David 979-571-0177.
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FOR RENT $1099 4bd/2ba/2car, 1mile from TAMU. W/D, all appliances included, pool, walk-ins, security system, gated access, free landscaping, pets ok. 4-full bedrooms but also priced for 3-roommates plus study/gameroom/guestroom. Canyon Creek Circle 979-739-3774. $395 prelease. 1/1, 2/1, 2/2, Free Wi-Fi/water/sewer on Northgate, on shuttle. Short-term leases ok. Call Maroon & White Management 979-422-5660. 1-room for rent w/private bath. All bills paid, cable internet included. Female only. $550/mo. 979-575-0375. 1bd/1ba Spacious floorplan w/cathedral ceilings. Brand new luxury apartment condos. Fullsize stainless steel appliances, balconies, W/D, designer ammenitites, granite/wood/tile, bus stop. Only 36units on Holleman at Wolf Pen. www.broadstoneranchatwolfpen.com 979-776-6079. 2bd/2ba unique floorplans w/balcony views of Kyle Field. Brand new luxury apartment condos. Fullsize stainless steel appliances, W/D, designer ammenities granite/wood/tile, bus stop. Only 36units on Holleman at Wolf Pen. www.broadstoneranchatwolfpen.com 979-776-6079. 3/2 Houses, Townhouses &Apartments, 1250sqft. Very spacious, ethernet, large kitchen, walk-in pantry &closets, extra storage, W/D, great amenities, on bus route, now pre-leasing, excellent specials. 979-694-0320, www.luxormanagement.com 3bd/3ba, gated luxury Waterwood Townhome. 1001 Krenek Tap Road. Granite counter-tops, spacious closets, reserved parking spots, W/D, bus route. $400/bedroom/mo. Call 817-988-4530. 4/3, 3/3 &3/2 Houses, Townhouses, Duplexes &Fourplexes, 1250-1700sqft. Very spacious, ethernet, large kitchen, extra storage, W/D, great amenities, on bus route, now pre-leasing, excellent specials. 694-0320. www.luxormanagement.com 4bd/2ba 2-living, +study. Available now, 1112 Berkley. Close to campus. Completely remolded! Short-term lease available. No pets. $1100/mo. 979-731-8257. www.brazosvalleyrentals.com 4bd/2ba house. Close to campus, wood floors, tile floors, ceiling fans, granite countertops, W/D, fenced yards. 979-776-6079. www.aggielandleasing.com
WHEN
TO CALL 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday Insertion deadline: 1 p.m. prior business day
FOR RENT 4bd/3ba house. New carpet. W/D. Southern Trace. $1150/mo. Call Rose 979-218-0441. Available now. Flexible leasing terms. $999/mo. 3bd/2.5ba duplex w/fenced yard. Pets ok. 979-255-3280. Big 3/2 duplex, w/d, tile, lawn care, ready for move-in. $875/mo. 979-324-5835. College Station duplex. Spacious unit W/D, Furnished, $795/mo. 979-693-0551. Condos, lofts, &Effeciencies: 309 Mobile #3&4, 1/1 efficiency, $515, w/s pd. 309 Mobile #6&8, 1/1 loft, $650 w/s pd. 1501 Stallings #44, 2/2.5, $900. 2920 Kent St. #106, 2/1.5, $650. 1001 Krenek Tap Rd #1405, 4/4, $1600. 1425 Villa Maria #401, 3/3.5, $1475. Alpha-Omega Properties, 979-774-7820, Broker. Country rental. Wellborn area. 3bd/2ba. Horse friendly w/fee. Large covered porch, W/D connections. $999/mo. Call Michelle 979-255-5763. Duplexes for lease: 1008-1010 Navarro, 2/1 $625. 3520 Paloma Ridge Dr.., 3/3 $1100. 819 San Benito, 2/1 $650. 920 Sun Meadow, 2/2 $875. Apla-Omega Properties, 979-774-7820, Broker. Houses for lease: 2300 Colgate, 3/2 $1400. 301 Rosemary, 4/2 $1200. 505 Gilbert, 3/3 $1050. 601 Maryem, 3/1 $800. 1013 San Benito, 3/2 $1200. 2901 McLaren, 4/4.5 $1475. 3907 Sioux, 3/2 $1000. 4003 Southern Trace, 4/3 $1300. 4107 McLister, 4/4 $1500. 2009 Angelina, 4/2 $1300. 3812 Old College, 2/1 $750. Alpha-Omega Properties. 979-774-7820, Broker. Huge 3/4bd/2ba house! Walk to campus, W/D, fenced. Normally $1450/mo., now $975/mo. 979-693-5885. Location, location, location! Fully furnished 2bd/2ba Callaway Villas, sub-lease, $679 individual leases, bus route #36, full-sized kitchen, 24 hour fitness, billiards, theatre room, and more! www.callawayvillas.com 979-695-2300. Now Leasing! 4bdrm/2bth houses. Spacious floorplans. Great Location. Close to campus, wood floors, tile floors, ceiling fans, w/d, fenced yards, refridgerator, icemaker,lawncare. 979-776-6079, www.aggielandleasing.com
HELP WANTED Assistant for Chiropractors office. Apply at 3733 East 29th Street Bryan. Athletic men for calendars, books, etc. $100-$200/hr, up to $1000/day. No experience. aggieresponse@gmail.com
PRIVATE PARTY WANT ADS
$10 for 20 words running 5 days, if your merchandise is priced $1,000 or less (price must appear in ad). This rate applies only to non-commercial advertisers offering personal possessions for sale. Guaranteed results or you get an additional 5 days at no charge. If item doesn’t sell, advertiser must call before 1 p.m. on the day the ad is scheduled to end to qualify for the 5 additional insertions at no charge. No refunds will be made if your ad is cancelled early.
HELP WANTED Help Wanted Part Time, Building Attendant for the Brazos Center. $10.10 hourly. Work schedule will vary from 12-20 hours a week. Janitorial duties and customer service. Must be reliable. Apply: Brazos County HR Dept. County Courthouse. Visit our website for more info. @ www.co.brazos.tx.us Kolache Rolf’s now hiring PT/FT cashiers. Apply within 3525-F Longmire or 2307 S. Texas Ave. Great hours, fun atmosphere! Lawn crew member needed, $9/hr. Hrs Monday, Wednesday and Friday 11-6, experience required. 979-224-2511. Local Fall Political-Internships available-campaign experience to build your resume. 512-508-2148. Park Cleaners now accepting applications for P/T help. Apply in person 314 George Bush. Part-time job helping handicapped. Male student preferred. $360/mo. 10hrs/wk. 979-846-3376. Part-time warehouse help needed. Flexible hours. Business hours are M-F 7:30-5. Apply at Valley Supply 3320 S. College Ave. Bryan, TX. 979-779-7042. Personal Assistant. Assistant and cooking preperation, shopping, review bills, internet price comparison, outdoor work, some heavy lifting, lawn mowing, landscaping, and trips to bank or post office. Must be professional on telephone and in person. Punctual, friendly, able to complete assignments in a timely fashion and possess good organizational skills. Email: mpaull@suddenlinkmail.com Prepbooks.com, is hiring campus representatives for part-time positions. Apply on website under careers. PT help needed. Local hunting club needs PT guides. Freshman and Sophomore only. Average 1-2 weekends/month in offseason; 2-3 in Fall and Winter. Limited hunting privileges. Applications at www.yardbirdhunting.com Sales/PR door to door, leads furnished, good pay, bonus, fax/email 691-0610 stewstep@aol.com STUDENTPAYOUTS.COM Paid Survey Takers Needed In College Station. 100% Free To Join. Click On Surveys. Tutors wanted for all subjects currently taught at TAMU/ Blinn and Sam Houston State starting at $8.25/hour. Apply on-line @ www.99Tutors.com, 979-268-8867. VOLLEYBALL COACHES WANTED! We need enthusiastic, positive, motivational volunteer coaches for girls volleyball. Call 979-764-6386.
Cleaning commercial buildings at night, M-F. Call 979-823-5031 for appointment. COACHES & BUDDIES WANTED: Our challenger soccer program (a program for mentally and physically challenged participants) is looking for people to provide a positive experience as a volunteer. Call 979-764-3424. Hallmark Cleaners hiring counter help. Apply in person 3611 S.College Ave.
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Pg. 2b-09-15-11.indd 1
SPECIAL
see ads at thebatt.com
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HELP WANTED VOLLEYBALL leagues are forming now! For team or individual registration information, visit cstx.gov/sports or call 979-764-6386. Web Designer/Programmer. Veros Systems verossystems.com FT & PT. Knowledge or experience in PHP, MySQL, JAVA Script, CSS2, HTML, and XML is required. Python, Java, C/C++/C#, Flash, Photoshop desired. EOE. Send resume to hr@verossystems.com fax: 877-295-9803. Web developer Ag owned company looking to hire entry level and advanced web developers. Experience with html and css a must. php, xml, drupal helpful. hr@infinityprosports.com
LOST & FOUND Found 2 male Chihuahuas in Wellborn area on 9/12. 979-777-0916
MUSIC
TICKETS
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
REAL ESTATE 2/2 1997 Clayton mobilehome to be moved. Shingle roof, porch and AC. $1300. 979-255-0664. B/CS. Sell/Buy/Invest! Re/Max, Michael McGrann. TAMU ‘93 Civil Engineering. 979-739-2035, Nadia McGrann, 979-693-1851. aggierealtor.com
ROOMMATES 1-room for rent w/private bath, all bills paid, cable/internet included, fully furnished. $550/mo. Non-smoker. 956-536-4357.
I need Ag football tickets! 713-436-6244 (office) or 713-454-9776 (cell).
TUTORS Math, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, $35/hour, $20/half-hour, monthly/group rates available, TANSTAAFL.tutor@gmail.com 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, 979-268-8867. Tutor needed to prepare 12th grader for science TAKS re-take 9/26-10/17; 2-3hrs/week $15-20/lesson. Science major preferred 979-492-9661. Wanted English tutor for SAT critical reading and writing preparation, three hours a week competitive pay, call 979-204-2561 or 713-852-7018.
MISCELLANEOUS Do you want to lose 3 dress sizes in 10min? 281-901-9463. JUNK IN THE TRUNK BCS Resale Shop, 1909 S.College Ave., Bryan. Used Furniture, Appliances, TV’s, Home Decor, Antiques, Cool& Unique Stuff, cheap! 979-224-2462. www.junkinthetrunkbcs.com
BRYAN: THE BROADMOOR APTS – 1/1 w/STUDY! AVAILABLE NOW, ALL APPL, NEW WOOD FLOORS, FULL-SIZE W/D CONN, PETS OK! FREE INTERNET, CABLE, W/S, & GARBAGE! $535-$555/ mo 979.764.RENT(7368) www.twincityproperties.com
BRYAN: 2/1.5 NEWLY RENOVATED
BRYAN: 2 BEDROOM FOURPLEXES & DUPLEXES! SOME HAVE FENCED YARDS, PATIOS, F/P OR BALCONY, PET FRIENDLY, FREE CABLE & INTERNET, W/D CONN, ALL APPL! $515-$695/mo 979.764.RENT(7368) www.twincityproperties.com
COLLEGE STATION: 2/1 4-PLEXES, UP OR DOWNSTAIRS AVAIL, WALKING/BIKING DISTANCE FROM TAMU, ASF 825, ALL APPL, W/D CONN, CENTRAL A/H! $495-$515/ mo 979.764.RENT(7368) www.twincityproperties.com
BRYAN: 2/1 – 2/2 NEWLY REMODELED UNITS AT THE ARBORS ON 31ST, AVAILABLE NOW, NEW WOOD FLOORS, ALL APPL, PET FRIENDLY. FREE INTERNET, CABLE, W/S, & GARBAGE! $555-$585/mo 979.764.RENT(7368) www.twincityproperties.com
BRYAN & COLLEGE STATION: 3 & 4 BEDROOM HOUSES, W/D CONN, PETS WELCOME, ALL APPL, SOME HAVE WOOD FLOORING AND A FENCED YARD! $725-$1195/mo 979.764.RENT(7368) www.twincityproperties.com
MIDTOWN MANOR APTS, AVAILABLE NOW, STARTING AT $535 FOR QUALIFIED PART-TIME STUDENTS, W/D CONN, POOL & FREE INTERNET, CABLE & MORE! $535-$575/mo 979.775.2292 www.twincityproperties.com
MUSIC Best deal in town- DJ services/audio rentals. RDM Audio does it all! Weddings, parties, band set ups, PA systems, Event Lighting, 979-260-1925. rdmaudio.com Now enrolling for Do-Re-Me Music and Dance. Music for special needs available. marian_hanna123@hotmail.com 979-571-0306.
COLLEGE SKI & BOARD WEEK
breckenridge
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STUDIES IN PROGRESS ATHLETES FOOT STUDY
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BRYAN: 4/2 TOWNHOMES, ASF 1600, PET FRIENDLY, ALL APPL, F/P, BALCONY, SOME HAVE FENCED YARDS, 2 LIVING AREAS, QUIET NEIGHBORHOOD! $995-$1075/mo 979.764.RENT(7368) www.twincityproperties.com
BRYAN: 8 BEDROOM/4 BATH HOME, AVAILABLE NOW, OVER 3,300 sq.ft. - 4 SUITES - Each 800 sq.ft. Suite Includes a Master Bedroom, A Study with an Extra Closet, and a Full-Size Bath ALL BILLS PAID*, PETS OK, CALL FOR DETAILS 979.764.RENT(7368) www.twincityproperties.com
puzzle answers can be found online at www.thebatt.com
Volunteers ages 12 and older are needed to participate in a 6 week clinical research study of an investigational topical medication for the treatment of Athletes Foot. Eligible volunteers will receive at no cost: • Study Related Medication • Skin Exams by a Dermatologist • Compensation up to $200.00 for time and effort For more information please contact:
HAIR LOSS Volunteers ages 18-49 are needed to participate in a 8 month long research study with an investigational topical medication for Hair Loss. All eligible volunteers will receive at no cost: • Study Related Examinations by a Dermatologist • Study Related Medication • Compensation for time and effort For more information please contact:
J&S Studies, Inc. 979-774-5933 1710 Crescent Pointe Parkway, College Station, TX 77845 www.js-studies.com
TAKE A PIECE OF A&M HISTORY WITH YOU
· Reserve your
2012 Aggieland
The 110th edition of Texas A&M University’s official yearbook will chronicle traditions, academics, the other education, sports, the Corps, Greeks, campus organizations and seniors and graduate students. Distribution will be during Fall 2012. Pre-order cost is $75, plus tax. By credit card go online to http://aggieland. tamu.edu or call 979-845-2613. Or drop by the Student Media office, Bldg. #8901 in The Grove (between Albritton Bell Tower and Cain Hall). Hours: 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. Monday–Friday.
9/14/11 1:29:51 PM
Career fair | Seventy-four businesses will join the Sciences Career Fair Thursday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Rudder Tower.
Meeting | Center for Human Resource Admissions deadline | Prospective MBA students need to complete admissions Management Advisory Board meeting at 8 p.m. today in the Wehner Building. by today for the first round of decisions.
business
thebattalion 09.15.2011 page3a
Lawmakers probe solar company loan
Indestructible bikes break chains
WASHINGTON — House Republicans questioned Wednesday whether the White House rushed approval of a half-billion-dollar loan guarantee for a now-bankrupt solar panel manufacturer once cited as the kind of renewable energy company worthy of federal stimulus money.
The Battalion With the hustle of fall classes underway, students can turn to a revolutionary mode of transportation — one that doesn’t involve air. Vince Denais, a former mechanical engineering student who attended A&M for two years before transferring to the University of Houston, has returned to College Station to introduce a new breed of bicycles: Maroon Bikes. Denais said he has worked for more than a decade taking the original Rugged Cycles bike model and making it commercial, providing the campus with proper cruiser-style bikes. Now, Denais operates out of an edgy, minimalist shop on University Drive with the company slogan reading, “World’s first airless, chainless bicycle.� Denais, who found himself in technical sales at refineries along the gulf coast after leaving Texas A&M, said his product is not just a bike but rather a sustainable transportation machine because it cannot be broken and possesses a lifetime warranty. “I just noticed the terrible conditions of the bikes at the refineries,� Denais said. “They are the main source of transportation within the plants and refineries and yet they seemed to always have some sort of repair issue, be it with the tires, brakes, or the strength of the bike itself. I thought to myself, this has to change.� Living in the humid conditions created by the coast, Denais said he quickly realized that in order for bicycles to be durable, the fragile chaindriven system of traditional bikes had to be scrapped. “My bikes are gear-driven and thus nothing rust-prone due to the elements is left exposed. The bearings are sealed in aluminum alloy,� Denais said. Denais explained that his bikes are also airless, fashioned of stainless steel and accompanied with a marine-grade
Krystal Nimigian
WildďŹ re protection half-funded in Texas SAN ANTONIO — Long before this month’s historic wildďŹ res in Texas, the state’s forest service came up with a $20.4 million plan to stop the ames from starting or tamp them out before small blazes grew deadly and destructive. Three years later, the plan is still only half-funded — a decision one ofďŹ cial calls a “dereliction of dutyâ€? by lawmakers who almost always prefer to spend money after a crisis has unfolded. Associated Press
epoxy-based paint coating as further protection against rust. Doug Dickson, junior recreation, parks and tourism sciences major, said he was drawn to the Maroon Bikes display on Church St. behind the Dixie Chicken and became intrigued. “I love seeing really good ideas come to fruition. Mr. Denais had his experiences in the industrial areas and saw how much they were spending on bikes, constantly either repairing them or buying new ones due to their bad quality. He noted the problem, attacked it and came out with an amazing solution,� Dickson said. “There’s no chain to malfunction, break, or for your shoelaces, jeans, or the like to get caught in. Safer is always better,� Denais, said the bicycle’s only drawback is its $1,190 price tag — but added that he has mitigated the issue by providing interested students with a leasing price plan. A number of bikes are available to lease for $1 per day. Denais’ son and Maroon Cycles marketing manager, Andre Denais’, said the original Rugged Cycles bike was designed in the 1800s and it was time for an upgrade. “The bike is cool mostly because it’s like a massive improvement of something that already exists,� Andre said. “I’d say our bike is sort of like what Steve Jobs did with the iPhone. We’ve completely revolutionized the idea of it.� Denais said another factor that prompted change was “bike bone yard� — a local impound lot with more that 2,000 unclaimed bicycles — and the lack of sustainability in the biking community. Denais’ said he hopes that Maroon Bikes will one day become the official bike of Texas A&M. “I have no problem calling this the most reliable and durable bicycle, due to its design,� Denais’ said. “I’ve worked at making it unbreakable and I pride myself on that.�
Krystal Nimigian — THE BATTALION
Living in the humid and salty aired conditions along the coast, Vince Denais realized that in order for bicycles to be durable, the fragile chain-driven system of traditional bikes had to be scrapped.
COLLEGE SKI & BOARD WEEK
breckenridge
Saturday, September 24th through Sunday, October 2nd
Vail • Beaver Creek • Keystone • Arapahoe Basin
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plus t/s
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TAKE A PIECE OF A&M HISTORY WITH YOU Reserve your 2012 Aggieland
The 110th edition of Texas A&M University’s official yearbook will chronicle traditions, academics, the other education, sports, the Corps, Greeks, campus organizations and seniors and graduate students. Distribution will be during Fall 2012. Pre-order cost is $75, plus tax. By credit card go online to http:// aggieland.tamu.edu or call 979-845-2613. Or drop by the Student Media office, Bldg. #8901 in The Grove (between Albritton Bell Tower and Cain Hall). Hours: 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. Monday–Friday.
or call us with any questions: 979-826-2825 &- 3OUTH (EMPSTEAD 4EXAS
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‘Warrior’ packs tearful punch
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irected and cowritten by Gavin O’Connor, ‘Warrior’ has more of an emotional impact outside of the cage than within, refusing to tap out in the face of its fighting movie clichĂŠs.
The script follows a broken Pennsylvanian family as they try to overcome financial hardship, betrayal and years of stress-building separation. Ex-marine Tommy Conlon (Tom Hardy) returns home after 14 years in search of his once drunk-for-adad, Paddy (Nick Nolte). Undefeated as a high school wrestler, Tommy enlists the help of his dad to train for SPARJared Baxter TA, the “Super senior media Bowl� studies major of mixed martial arts with a winnertakes-all $5 million prize. Tommy’s older brother, Brendan (Joel Edgerton), a former UFC fighter and now high school physics teacher, faces the foreclosure on the home of his wife and two kids. Much to the “I’m not going to watch you die in the ring� dismay of his wife, Brendan turns to his former trainer in a last ditch effort to come up with the necessary cash. These two brothers — each with their own decade of hardship since having last seen one another—unknowingly walk the same path toward inner redemption. Their father binds them together as he tries to mend old wounds in the hopes of forgiveness. Tommy is pensive, cold and every bit the emotionally damaged Iraq War veteran he should be as he mauls through one opponent after the next.
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You feel his pain—his unyielding anger. As the family man underdog, Brendan is easily the more likeable of the brothers. He’s infinitely less brooding. You want to see him uphold his pride and overcome adversity. It doesn’t hurt that Brendan has an entire high school backing him; the students love Mr. C. Somehow, neither of the two is ultimately easier to cheer for in the end. Brendan has his two adorable daughters and Tommy has own his fallen comrade motivations for stepping into the cage. Much like their father, the audience must watch the Cain and Abel matchup to decide not only who is the best fighter, but if even the most shattered of families can be saved. It’s not all family drama though. There are plenty of pay-per-view quality matches to be had as O’Connor’s Atlantic City fight scenes are tight and fast paced. The
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Want to be part of a 9-Time National Championship Team!?
Hotel closes doors without notice
Tryouts
Austin Adams The Battalion
Informational meeting on the team and tryout sign ups!
Where:Burkhart Auditorium, Northwest Corner of Kyle Field When: Wednesday, September 28th at 6:00 pm Who: Full time TAMU female Students with advanced experience in western horsemanship or reining, as well as hunter seat equitation on the flat or hunter seat equitation over fences For more information go to www.aggieathletics.com/equestrian
Texas A&M University celebrates
In honor of the 224th anniversary of the signing of United States Constitution on September 17, 1787, Texas A&M University is joining thousands of citizens, teachers, and students nationwide in celebrating Constitution Day. Join the celebration by participating in the activities planned for the Texas A&M campus and the Bryan-College Station community. The following is a list of activities planned for Constitution Week.
Saturday, September 17, through Friday, September 23, 2011 Exhibits on the U.S. Constitution will be located in the Sterling C. Evans Library, the West Campus Library, the Medical Sciences Library, and the Policy Sciences and Economics Library.
Saturday, September 17, 2011, Constitution Day
Aggieland Inn reconciled its abandoned appearance with its status earlier this month and closed its doors. Located near the intersection of Texas Avenue and Holleman Drive in a building formerly managed by Ramada Inn, the location closed its doors indefinitely as the A&M-SMU football weekend approached, removing 200 beds from the visitor pool and leaving several families without notice or a place to stay. The 10 most recent user comments on Trip Advisor, an online forum for user-generated reviews of hotels, insensitively foreshadowed Aggieland Inn’s demise. Reviewers cautioned future guests with comments such as “awful,” “don’t stay,” “atrocious” and “not as bad as we had been warned.” “If a place has that many bad reviews, then it is obviously poor in quality,” said Dylan Browning, freshman biomedical science major. Shannon Overby, executive director of the Bryan-College Station Convention and Visitors Bureau said Aggieland Inn’s reviews reflected its reputation in the business community. “We have had numerous complaints on this property for almost a year,” Overby said. “So approximately six months ago we removed them from our hotel listings. We have tried to reach the owner in the United Kingdom to no avail. We have no way of knowing
Kendall Kolker — THE BATTALION
Without any forewarning, Aggieland Inn shuts its doors on potentially one of the busiest weekends in Aggieland, the football season opener. how to reach those who have reservations.” Overby said the Bureau actively monitors online reviews to better understand the condition of the community’s hotels. This is in addition to the Bureau’s quarterly visits and responses to unsolicited complaints. Overby added that the closure could be good news for B-CS and its visitors. “We try to make sure the hotels have a good image. It really does hurt our community to get that kind of publicity,” Overby said. Kindra Fry, also with the Bureau, mentioned one guest in particular whose wedding reception was planned at Aggieland Inn for later this month. “Her initial reaction was panic,” Fry said. “We immediately started offering her with other ideas and places and that we would, in the mean-
time, try to get in contact with the owners to get her deposit back.” Fry said the bride-to-be is now in contact with the owners and that they are managing the situation in an attempt to make amends. “They are definitely trying their best to make it up to the guests,” Fry said. Fry went on to say that the circumstances surrounding Aggieland Inn’s abrupt closure were reminiscent of the Plaza Hotel’s closing last year. “We were not sending people to the Aggieland Inn because it was so uncertain,” Fry said. “Very much alike to the Plaza Hotel, real quick the doors were closed. They were not answering their phones. Just like in the Plaza’s case, it was shock I guess.” Attempts to contact Aggieland Inn management were unsuccessful.
improving undergraduate and graduate programs, diversifying the A&M community, supporting the arts and sciences and enhancing the undergraduate experience. While the overarching goal of Vision 2020 is generally agreed upon, those involved say there have been spirited debates on specific imperatives. According to Tanner Wilson, speaker of the Student Senate, the student legislative body has historically taken issue with imperative 10, “Demand Enlightened Governance and Leadership.” The imperative demands responsible leadership from the Board of Regents, System administration and University administration, but fails to include student leadership. Wilson said previous senates have taken the stance that students should be included in University governance. As the im-
perative is written, there is no mention of student leadership. “While there are disagreements on specifics of some of the imperatives, everyone seems to get along on guiding principle of being in the top 10 nationally,” Wilson said. “That guiding vision is important for the financial investment [students] have made in their degrees.” In his Convocation address on Friday, Loftin will discuss Vision 2020. According to Loftin, Vision 2020 will make a degree from Texas A&M more valuable for current students and the more than 360,000 former students around the world. “There is still work to be done to reach our goal, however, and we cannot let up,” Watson said. “We continue to believe that Vision 2020 is essential to enhancing students’ educational experiences.”
12:00 Noon—KAMU-TV & KAMU-DT Constitution Day programming ORIGINAL INTENT: The Battle for America Original Intent is the judicial philosophy promoted by Supreme Court Justices Antonin Scalia and Clarence Thomas. Originalists believe the U.S. Constitution should be interpreted in the way the Founding Fathers understood it in 1789 – an era when only white men were allowed to vote and slavery was legal. Others believe the Constitution was crafted in broad, open-ended language and that its meaning evolves over time. With George W. Bush’s appointments of Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Samuel Alito, the balance of the Supreme Court shifted to the right and many laws that are considered fundamental rights could be overturned, particularly laws that protect civil rights, voting rights, affirmative action, reproductive rights, privacy, and sexual freedom. Three months after President Barack Obama’s inauguration, Supreme Court Justice David Souter announced he plans to retire. More vacancies are anticipated on the court. In his nomination of Judge Sonia Sotomayor, President Obama stated, “I view empathy…as an essential ingredient for arriving at just decisions and outcomes.” Do the originalists promote a fair and neutral way for judges to interpret the U.S. Constitution or does the meaning of the U.S. Constitution evolve over time? KAMU-TV can be seen at: KAMU-TV 12.1, Suddenlink ch.4 & ch.700, DIRECTV ch 15, Dish Network ch. 12, Live Stream http://kamu.tamu.edu “Watch Now” 3:00 p.m.—Texas A&M University’s Albritton Tower Carillon will play the patriotic music as part of ”Bells Across America.” Halftime—Texas Aggie Football—A&M v. Idaho—The Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band will include a tribute to the Constitution in the band’s halftime performance.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011 6:30 p.m.—Wiley Lecture Series Constitution Day Forum, ”Too Big to Curtail?: The powers of Congress and the Federal Reserve to budget and take on debt,” Koldus 111. Speakers to be announced.
2020 Continued from page 1a
colleges and other divisions of the university, guided Texas A&M in the development of our University Strategic Plan, Action 2015: Education First,” said Karan Watson, Texas A&M provost. Action 2015 is one of the benchmarks set by administration to gauge University progress toward Vision 2020, with an academic emphasis. At the time, Vision 2020 was conceived, more than 250 stakeholders were involved creating ideas, benchmarks and goals used to measure the progress throughout the 20-year period. The measures and ideas these stakeholders generated are embodied in the “twelve imperatives” of the mission. The imperatives include
For further information about any of these activities, please contact Nancy Sawtelle at 845-4016 or n-sawtelle@tamu.edu.
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Volleyball set for Michigan/adidas tourney Courtney Nelson
Junior libero Megan Pendergast sets for an attack. Stephanie Leichtle — THE BATTALION
In A&M’s last game of the tournament, the Aggies will play the undefeated home team — No. 18 Michigan. The Wolverines have several offensive players who can get the job done. Alex Hunt, a senior outside hitter, earned tournament MVP honors last week and leads Michigan with 3.48 kills per set. Several other Wolverines are hovering around the three-kill mark, including senior Courtney Fletcher and redshirt junior Claire McElheny. Both the Aggies and Wolverines are hitting .297, are undefeated, and have explosive offenses. Michigan will most likely be the toughest match of the season thus far, but junior Alisia Kastmo said A&M is prepared. “There’s definitely a lot more experience with our team this year,” Kastmo said. “We used last year to improve and move a lot of things around.
This year we are just so much more comfortable with each other and working together.” With much-needed experience on both offense and defense, Corbelli knows the improved Aggies can compete with anyone. “Kastmo and Lindsey Miller getting better position with the ball and getting more quality looks really has been one of the biggest x-factors for our team,” Corbelli said. “Also Tori Mellinger has been excellent on the outside with her power and knowledge of the game.” A&M volleyball instructor Bill Coady said the Aggies will be a challenge for any team in Ann Arbor with their positive attitudes and tremendous abilities. “This is such a talented team with experience and guts,” Coady said. “They all listen to the coaches so well and really take criticism and utilize it to their best abilities.”
©2011 Twentieth Century Fox.
The Battalion Things are looking good for the Texas A&M women’s volleyball team, who will test their 9-0 start to the season as they travel to Ann Arbor for the Michigan/adidas Invitational. “We see the number stats of the teams we will be playing and they seem to be very quick teams and very efficient,” head coach Laurie Corbelli said. “They are going to be tough matches and definitely a huge challenge.” The Xavier Musketeers are slated as the first contest for the Aggies on Friday with a team hitting percentage of .239. They are 6-3 on the season and have several players that can be a threat. A defensive threat for Xavier is junior libero Stephanie Vorherr, who was named the Atlantic 10 Libero of the Year in her first two seasons and will continue to dig anything that comes her way. Offensively, sophomore outside hitter Sarah Brown is averaging 3.34 kills per set and was named the Atlantic 10 offensive player for this week. For A&M, senior outside hitter Kelsey Black received the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week award on Monday, which will set up a highly competitive and talented matchup. On Friday night, the Aggies will face the Toledo Rockets, a team with a losing record but a lot of fight on the court. The Rockets are hitting .244 this season, however they allow their opponents to hit .255. Although the record may not show it, Toledo has some weapons of its own. Sondra Parys is swinging for 3.27 kills per game but no other Toledo player has numbers to match. Five players are averaging over two kills per game, so the offense is spread evenly among several players.
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on telling them where they are.� Users with the most check-ins at a location in the past 60 days are appointed “Mayor�, a title that can come with perks of its own. Users can also add tips and information about venues and create lists of things to do when visiting a place. As the leader of Texas A&M’s studentdriven Foursquare initiative, Green and his coworkers run the University’s account and have access to the site’s metric data. They make decisions based on how people are using Foursquare around campus. Green is also responsible for much of the school’s initial involvement with Foursquare. When the network first went online two years ago, he said he saw potential. “The gaming aspect was a part of it, but the thing I liked the most was that people couldn’t use it sitting at home in front of their computers,� Green said. “They were telling users to get out into the real world and letting them interact with each other online in a way that was different from how other networks were operating.� Green employed the help of Diane McDonald, director of A&M’s Social Media and Marketing. Together, they established an early partnership with the newborn social network — the third school to do so after Harvard and Stanford. “Foursquare had only been around for a few months when Michael approached me with the idea,� McDonald said. “He saw something special in Foursquare and thought that the school might be interested in seeing what they could do with it.� McDonald said A&M has capitalized on their partnership with the network in a number of ways. Students are encouraged to checkin at notable areas on campus and compete for mayoral standing. Users are also able to take
advantage of a number of lists of tips composed by the school, which give information for the campus’ landmarks and unknown areas. “The lists are an important part of what we’re doing on Foursquare,� McDonald said. “People can use them to take a tour of campus at their own pace and learn more about what makes the school special.� The network has doubled as a marketing tool for A&M, as well. Members who obtain the new University badge are eligible to receive special offers, a practice that many businesses have been experimenting with as a promotional tool. The University has also used the network in promotional events, including last year’s social media scavenger hunt. The event gave students clues to solve which led them to the far corners of the campus, then told them to use Foursquare to check-in to the designated areas. The top teams earned prizes through a partnership with the university’s licensing department. Currently, Texas A&M’s Foursquare page has approximately 14,500 followers. In comparison, the University’s Twitter page has 18,000 followers and nearly 300,000 “likes� on Facebook. Still, not everyone remains convinced of the network’s usefulness. “I remember seeing signs from some of the liberal arts organizations about Foursquare this year during Gig ‘Em Week, but I guess I never really understood what the point of it was,� said senior political science major Reed Williams. “If I want my friends to know where I am I can just text them or post about it on the sites I already use.� Similar services from competing web companies, like Facebook and Google Latitude, have difficulty emulating Foursquare’s success. A recently released study from the Pew Internet & American Life Project claimed that while 23% of American adults use locationtracking for information about local businesses, fewer are comfortable with using them to explicitly share their location. Even so, Foursquare has a user base of more than10 million followers and is growing.
oh please. Ummm‌ yeah. Good luck with that.
You won’t believe your Aggie eyes!
Behold the mind-blowing feats of the NATIONAL ACROBATS OF CHINA Friday, October 7! You have only one chance to witness these unfathomable acts of fierce strength and colossal magnitude.
NATIONAL ACROBATS OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA Rudder Auditorium FRI, OCT 7, 2011 • 7:30 PM
ORDER YOUR TICKETS NOW! Call 979-845-1234. Buy online MSCOPAS.org
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Special Low Prices for Students! Kevin Smith — THE BATTALION
James Byrne stands in front of his Rockin’ J’s night shuttle.
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because there was such a huge need for it. Hailey Lunsford, senior political science major, said she agrees with that vision. “One of the problems we have in College Station is a lack of parking, and transportation seems to always be an issue so I think it’s a wonderful and easy option,� said Hailey Lunsford, senior political science major. There are 56 tickets available each night, purchased in advance. These tickets guarantee a ride home. Those who do not pre-pay for tickets can flag the bus down to board and ride, but are not guaranteed a spot. “Ideally, the customer gets his or her group together and buys the tickets online before they go out. Then they show up to the bus
stop and I hand them a wrist band and the transaction is done for the whole night,� Byrne said. “I wanted to make sure that I provided a high level service to my clients, and the best way to do that is cater to less people in an attempt to excel in quality.� Rockin J’s has also incorporated iPhone and Android apps to make the process more college-friendly. The shuttle’s location is updated in real time with the Google Latitude app. Byrne said this app eliminates the stress in guessing if the bus is there to pick you up, or if you have an extra five minutes. Other services such as Cowboy Cab, Eddie’s Barpool taxi, Maroon Shuttle and free services like Carpool still run and shuttle many students to and from Northgate. “You might pay more money but I think it would be quicker than using Carpool,� said Nick Price, a junior business major.
Sciences Career Fair Thursday, Sept. 15, 2011 10am-3pm 1st Floor Rudder Complex
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EDITOR’SNOTE The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the various authors and forum participants in this paper do not necessarily reflect those of Texas A&M University, The Battalion or its staff.
MAILCALL GUESTCOLUMNS Make your opinion known by submitting Mail Call or guest columns to The Battalion. Mail
call must be fewer than 200 words and include the author’s name, classification, major and phone number. Staff and faculty must include title. Guest columns must be fewer than 700 words. All submissions should focus on issues not personalities, become property of The Battalion and are subject to editing for style, clarity and space concerns. Anonymous letters
Direct all correspondence to: Editor in chief of The Battalion (979) 845-3315 | mailcall@thebatt.com
Vision 2020 needs student input
V
ision 2020 has become ome one of those buzzwordss students hear around campus, us, but no student seems to be suree what the document stands for for. r.
and it’s time for those who are directly affected and have a passion for A&M to stand up, specifically students. Students attend A&M for a relatively short period of time, while Vision 2020 is a long-term objective. However, since students are the driving force behind a university, they need to take a more active role in the conversation. Without student involvement the argument is largely facultydriven and faculty-focused, which lends itself to a distorted discussion of University issues. Then, controversies break out and students are upset with administration actions. If students were more proactive rather than reactive voicing disagreement with certain policies, they might have a greater say in outcomes. Higher education fosters an environment geared toward challenge and learning. Change always occurs, even on a campus as enriched with tradition as ours. Some changes should be embraced and others left behind, but overall change is about propelling Texas A&M forward, and Vision 2020 is as well. When most current students are long gone from Texas A&M, I think Vision 2020 will have completed much of what it set out to do, and will have added value to my degree from Texas A&M and enhanced the academic atmosphere for students. It all comes down to trust: trust in our leadership to act in what is believed to be our best interest; trust in our faculty that they are doing their part educating us and giving added value to our degree; and trust in our students that we, too, have an idea of what’s best for our education and what we believe will best serve all of us. Hilary Albrecht is a senior political science major and
voices thebattalion 09.15.2011 page5b
GUESTCOLUMN
Since its creation in the late 1990s, Vision 2020 has undergone changes in how it is perceived and utilized on campus, and the past couple of years have seen the document become more open to externalities. For many, the question has been why there is an increased focus now both internally and externally, and how that focus changes the way the imperatives drive campus initiatives. Maybe this renewed focus has come from outside pressures and a changing external environment, and maybe it’s just this stage in the process toward Vision 2020. In any case, thoughts on higher education and its state today are changing, and without proactive plans like Vision 2020, Texas A&M will fall behind. As stakeholders of Texas A&M, students need to reframe the argument on higher education through increased involvement in matters like Vision 2020. The problem is, a lot of the document is rather vague, which leaves much to be desired. There’s page upon page of eloquent language and detailed dreams involving the various imperatives, and some debatable quantitative measures for how to measure success. This leaves students and others without tangible ways to get from where we are to where we want to be. Also of concern is the lack of the mention of students in the document. All of the imperatives can be said to at least indirectly affect students (elevating faculty, building liberal arts core, etc.), but they aren’t directives geared specifically toward students. It’s difficult to get students involved when it seems like students aren’t a priority in planning toward the University’s future. There is always a need for more accountability and transparency, and that’s more apparent now than ever. Past actions have left many students, former students and faculty disenchanted with the course the University has taken,
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will be read, but not printed. The Battalion will print only one letter per author per month. No mail call will appear in The Battalion’s print or online editions before it is verified.
Tim Isaac — THE BATTALION
Where has all the
free parking gone? Michael Rodriguez: I see a growing problem and others do, too
T
he other day I was at the Engineering Physics building trying to get some homework done. Unfortunately, I cannot afford a parking pass on campus to park in any of the parking lots. The only solution for students like me is to park at the garages or pay at the parking lots with the meter at the entrance. I paid the rate for one hour, which is $2 per hour before 5 p.m. and $0.50 per hour after 5 p.m. At the northside garage, you pay at arrival, and are forced to guess how much time you will be staying. I stayed longer than I originally thought, so when I walked up to my car, predictably, there was a ticket on my windshield. The parking situation on campus is becoming ridiculous. And the students I’ve spoken with agree. “Pricing is a little steep because we are already paying enough with tuition,” said Ankit Wadhwa, senior environmental geosciences major. With the rates for parking permits ranging from $88 to $400, parking at Texas A&M is becoming a sizable investment. Every year during registration, students are asked to choose a parking lot or garage in which they choose to park. If the lot that the student desires is not available, then it’s to the unforgiving
waiting list. But what do they do in the meantime? Students will spend money at the parking garages or park away from campus at the park-and-ride locations, from which they can catch a bus to school, if there’s room. So… wait. The University has an option where we can drive further from campus — spending money on gas — then ride the bus back to campus? We already pay a transportation fee (which has increased because of the cost of gas). How is this solution to the problem? With the number of incoming freshman reaching new highs every year, I think I see a growing issue. Now, let’s say you’re in a position like my earlier example, where something keeps you from your car a bit longer than expected. Because you couldn’t predict the future, you return to your windshield to find a $40 ticket when it’s only $0.50 to pay for an extra hour. Campus security needs to realize that students need to park on this huge campus. Sometimes, we
have no option but to park quite a distance from our destination. It’s difficult to make the long trip to feed the meter, and it’s a $39.50 difference we are talking about. With prices and frustration high, the university should spend some time investigating parking solutions. I believe that there should be at least one free parking lot — Lot 100 would serve best — for a first-come, first-served basis, without a permit. This way, students can have at least one area where they will not be badgered by security and expensive tickets. This parking issue should be looked at and students should offer feedback. If the school would hold open forums about this issue, they would notice that students grow weary of high parking prices and unreasonable ticketing policies. Now, if you folks can excuse me, I must book-it. The meter must be fed yet again.
Michael Rodriguez is a senior industrial engineering major.
MAILCALL From Marlan Scully, distinguished professor of physics and of chemistry I would like to give you my take as an academic who has spent his life wandering between the Ivy Leagues (Yale, MIT, Princeton) and the southwestern frontier (Texas A&M, New Mexico, Arizona). In a word, Texas A&M is an excellent public institution of science and technology, and it is getting better and better. Just as one example, since 2000, Physics has added two Nobel Prize winners and four members of the National Academy of Sciences. A large
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part of the credit for this must be given to our forward-looking administration. For example, it was former Chancellor Michael McKinney and President Bowen Loftin who helped us hire Nobel Prize winner David Lee. We especially note that President Loftin is to be congratulated on his excellent stewardship and leadership; for example, the below testimonials which were solicited by Texas A&M physicist George Kattawar on the occasion of his receiving the Texas Distinguished Scientist of the Year Award. We should indeed encourage our leaders as they
take us to the next level of excellence.
George Kattawar, recognized
for publicizing the many accomplishments of the college of science.”
scientist: “It is truly a privilege and pleasure
Provost Karan Watson: “Dr. Loftin
serving under a university president who has the ability to deal with current problems and the vision necessary to take us to the next level.”
is firmly committed to a culture of excellence that warrants national and international admiration.”
H. Joseph Newton, College of Science dean: “It is my great pleasure to add my voice to all those honoring George Kattawar… I would also like to pay tribute to President Loftin, who has been a great force
Regent Morris Foster: “President Loftin is guided by an unwavering moral compass, a commitment to academic excellence and a belief that education is the lynchpin of creating a Texas of opportunity.”
9/15/11 1:25 AM
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