thebattalion ● wedne wednesday, d
november 30, 2011
● serving
texas a&m since 1893
● first paper free – additional copies $1 ● © 2011 student media
Academic overdose Students turn to stimulants when studying for exams Madeline Burns The Battalion acing pressure to succeed, many students do just about anything to get a competitive edge academically. For some, this means hours at the library. Others frequent tutoring services. Still more turn to large amounts of caffeine and nightlong study sessions. Some students, however, take their drive to maintain a high GPA to a new level, turning to pharmaceutical stimulant medications, such as Adderall and Vyvanse, without prescriptions. Adderall and Vyvanse are amphetamines — psychostimulants that increase mental acuity and allow individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, ADHD, to concentrate. Students without a medical condition use the drugs to study more effectively and for longer periods of time. “It doesn’t make you any smarter than you already are, it just helps you focus,” said one student source who uses Adderall without a prescription, speaking under condition of anonymity. He added that acquiring Adderall for study binges is not difficult. It’s as simple as knowing where to look. “It’s just a matter of asking somebody,” he said. “I’m sure that everyone knows somebody who knows somebody that gets it all the time.” Another student, who also spoke under condition of anonymity, has medical need for Adderall but gives excess medication to friends as tests approach. He does not sell the drugs,
F
inside voices | 3 Black Friday frenzy
and defended the practice as an act of looking out for friends. “The reason I am OK with distributing is because college is hard,” the source said. “My friends, we take care of each other. We are each other’s families. So I don’t feel guilty. I don’t feel like I am doing something wrong.” The source said he and his friends are able to use the drug when they need it for an explicit purpose, which is only on rare occasions. “My friends aren’t constantly asking for it,” he said. “They’re not abusing the drug and nor am I, so that’s how I rationalize it.” The first source did not consider taking Adderall without a medical condition to be cheating. But the student who distributes the drug recognized an ethical ambivalence in the issue, and was worried about the consequences if caught. “I’m sure that A&M could consider [distributing] to be academic dishonesty,” the source said. “But I don’t understand how A&M could reprimand a person for helping another. Especially with the Aggie network … How often do we use our connections as Aggies to get ahead with jobs?” The Aggie Honor System Office, which responds to cases of academic integrity at A&M, defines cheating as “intentionally using or attempting to use unauthorized materials, information, notes, study aids or other devices or materials in any academic exercise.” Tim Powers, director for the Aggie Honor System Office, said it was not clear whether this definition included stimulant drug use. He added that there is not precedent for this Roger Zhang and Josh McKenna — THE BATTALION
See Prescription on page 5
campus
Olympians dare Aggies to dream big
Christmas is the season for giving, caring and being jolly. That is, unless it’s Black Friday and someone stands between you and a good deal. Joe Terrell, lifestyles editor for The Battalion, takes a look at the true spirit of Christmas inside.
Joanna Raines
construction Joe Routt, Stallings close Two campus roads closed Monday and will no longer be open to pedestrians or cars this semester. Joe Routt, which runs between the Memorial Student Center and the Zone PLaza, will reopen April 21. Stallings Boulevard, the road on the West side of the MSC, is expected to reopen Jan. 17. The sidewalk is also closed in front of Cain Hall. To travel around the construction, students need to take the sidewalk through Cain Park. According to Peter Lange, A&M executive director of transportation, Joe Routt will reopen with bike lanes on both sides of the road and a gate at the west end with limited motor vehicle access, open to the public between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. Robby Smith, staff writer
Stephanie Leichtle — THE BATTALION
Olympian Nastia Liukin speaks with students during Deloitte’s U.S. Olympic Committee Road Show. The program included a meet and greet with the athletes and motivational messages.
The Battalion Students sat in silence, star-struck by speakers at the Deloitte “Take the Lead” seminar. Three U.S. Olympic and Paralympic athletes gave insight into their personal lives to inspire students to achieve their goals. Olympic gold medalist Nastia Liukin, 2010 Worlds all-around bronze medalist Jonathan Horton and two-time Paralympic champion Marlon Shirley each contributed during the evening. Texas A&M is one of 17 colleges on the “Take the Lead” tour. The purpose of the tour is to allow students a unique networking experience that will give them tools to achieve their goals. Each athlete had a different story, and shared a unique key to success. Liukin stressed the importance of finding a passion and pursuing it. “I guess my goal … is to inspire at least one person,” Liukin said. “And to
teach at least one person and let them know that it is OK to dream big and go after those dreams.” For Liukin, pursuing her passion of gymnastics means seven-hour practices and missing out on the life of a normal 22-year-old. “I’ve never been to a college football game, actually,” Liukin said. After the 2012 Olympics, Liukin does not expect to continue competing in gymnastics. She looks forward to attending NYU and pursuing a career outside athletic competition. She said Olympic athletes are not exempt from the dreaded question: “What are you going to do with your life?” Liukin said she relates to students who feel they have not yet discovered their passion. “I’m kind of in the same spot as they are. After 2012, I probably won’t be competing anymore, so it’s finding See Olympics on page 7
student government
Senate to discuss student fees, nondiscrimination Robby Smith The Battalion Texas A&M’s Student Government Association will consider proposals for two pieces of legislation Wednesday evening. One bill seeks a compromise to address a divide between the Student Senate and Student Body President Jeff Pickering on student fees. The other bill presents a nondiscrimination policy for the A&M System. Amanda Hatheway, speaker pro tempore of the Student Senate, said she is uncertain about the support the nondiscrimination bill will re-
ceive because this will be the first time it has been presented before the assembled body. “[The bill] is sponsored by 10 of the approximately 70 student senators within the Senate,” Hatheway said. “A few senators have announced that they are unsure if this bill is necessary or needed by the System.” The bill’s content requests that the System change its current nondiscrimination policy to include protections for discrimination against individuals based on their sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, said bill author Andrew Jancaric, student senator representing the
Dwight Look College of Engineering. “A&M is ranked the least friendly to GLBT’s by the Princeton Review among college campuses,” said Jancaric, who is also vice president of Gay Lesbian Bisexual and Transgender Aggies student organization. “I want to make A&M a more welcoming place. [The bill] is designed to make the System take a bold stance in person that we support the nondiscrimination of people based on their sexual orientation.” Though the Board of Regents will decide
The Original Broadway Cast Joe Sears Jaston Williams TONIGHT! 2UDDER !UDITORIUM s 0-
See SGA on page 2
SPONSORED BY
RUSH TICKETS ONLY $21! STUDENT RUSH OFFER! LAST CHANCE TONIGHT!
Pg. 1-11.30.11.indd 1
-3# "OX /FFICE s
* Limited Number of Tickets Available at the Window of the 06& %R[ 2IILFH 2QO\ /LPLW 7LFNHWV SHU 6WXGHQW 6WXGHQW ,' 5HTXLUHG 1RW 9DOLG IRU 7LFNHWV $OUHDG\ 3XUFKDVHG
11/30/11 12:46 AM
thebattalion THE INDEPENDENT STUDENT VOICE OF TEXAS A&M SINCE 1893
Robert Carpenter, Editor in Chief Jared Baxter, Managing Editor Emily Villani, Planning Editor Trevor Stevens, City Editor Taylor Wolken, Opinion Editor Adrian O’Hanlon III, Sports Editor Joe Terrell, Lifestyles Editor Kalee Bumguardner, Research Editor Evan Andrews, Graphics Chief Jay Kapadia, Photo Chief Josh McKenna, Photo Chief Jason Syptak, New Media Editor
Chemical concoction
“A World of Healthy Products for Your Family!�
. Today . ALL NATURAL .Great . Sale on Sunny Soothing & Moisturizing High: 71 Low: 49 Connect online SALINE
Nasal New Products Spray RAW Enzymes ME
RICA’
Josh McKenna— THE BATTALION
S
with 1 RAW Probiotics st l Xylitol Se RAW Fiber
#
Be
Subscriptions: A part of the Student Services Fee entitles each Texas A&M student to pick up a single copy of The Battalion. First copy free, additional copies $1. Mail subscriptions are $125 per school year. To charge by Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express, call 979-845-2613.
4303 S. TEXAS AT ROSEMARY 4303 S. TEXAS AT ROSEMARY #3:"/ t BRYAN • 979-846-4459 .0/ '3* 50 t 4"5 50 MON–FRI 9 TO 6 • SAT 9 TO 4
Sophmores Tony Rosati, biomedical science major, and John Shewchuk, biology major, observe a titration of an alkane forming an alkyl halide during their ďŹ rst semester of Organic Chemistry. Lab ďŹ nals occur over the course of the next two weeks.
Celebrating 22 Years Years of of Serving the Brazos Celebrating 23 Serving the Brazos Valley! Valley!
bryan-college station Athletic dept. CFO jabs Loftin on website
Need to have your wisdom teeth removed? Don’t go to the ring. We have a research study. Right now, PPD is looking for qualiďŹ ed participants for a post-surgical pain relief research study of an investigational medication. Surgery for qualiďŹ ed study participants will be performed by a board certiďŹ ed oral surgeon. Receive up to $500 upon study completion and the surgery is performed at no cost.
For information, call
pagetwo thebattalion 11.30.2011
lin g
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 classiďŹ ed advertising, call 979-845-0569. Advertising ofďŹ ces are in The Grove, Bldg. 8901, and ofďŹ ce hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Fax: 979845-2678.
courtesy of NOAA
Connect online
A
THE BATTALION (ISSN #1055-4726) is published daily, Monday through Friday during the fall and spring semesters and Monday through Thursday during the summer session (except University holidays and exam periods) at Texas A&M University. Periodicals Postage Paid at College Station, TX 77840. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Battalion, Texas A&M University, 1111 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843-1111. News: The Battalion news department is managed by students at Texas A&M University in Student Media, a unit of the Division of Student Affairs. News ofďŹ ces are in The Grove, Bldg. 8901. Newsroom phone: 979-845-3313; Fax: 979-845-2647; E-mail: metro@thebatt.com; website: http://www.thebatt.com.
Thursday mostly sunny high: 68 low: 50 Friday 20% chance of showers high: 63 low: 50 Saturday 20% chance of showers high: 69 low: 45
Today Sunny High: 60 Low: 39
1-800-866-0492
Text “PPD� to 48121 to receive study information
The chief ďŹ nancial ofďŹ cer of Texas A&M’s athletics department and Class of 1980, Jeff Toole, said Tuesday afternoon that he has criticized President R. Bowen Loftin and called him names under an alias on the popular website TexAgs. com, reported the Houston Chronicle. Under the handle UtayAg, Toole described Loftin as a “putzâ€? and a “hopelessly underqualiďŹ ed puppetâ€? during the summer. Houston Chronicle reported Toole was outed Tuesday on the website by a poster dubbed “iPanicâ€? who searched UtayAg’s posting history, and found one from more than a year ago where UtayAg identiďŹ ed himself as the CFO of A&M athletics. Chief communications ofďŹ cer Jason cook said Loftin is aware of the posted and that they are handling the situation as a personnel metter. Trevor Stevens, staff writer
SGA Continued from page 1
what the policy actually is, this bill will create groundlevel support for nondiscrimination, Jancaric said. In a separate bill, Pickering took issue with the Student Senate’s proposal to not raise certain student fees. Pickering recently vetoed a bill that opposed raising five proposed student fees after it was passed by the Senate. If the Senate does not override his veto, a compromise bill will be presented allowing the raising of select fees. Speaker of the Student Senate Tanner Wilson said Pickering vetoed the bill because he believed the instructional technology and library fees need to be raised. “There has been a lot of discussion about whether it is necessary to increase those fees, or if that funding could
possibly come from somewhere else,� Wilson said. Wilson said that his personal concern with the library fee is subscription to academic journals. The cost goes up almost 10 percent each year for journal subscriptions, which is more than the rate of inflation. “The compromise bill says we support the increase on the computer access fee and instructional technology fee, and for the library fee,� Wilson said. “Also, the bill has been proposed to support the increase in the fee to the writing center. But, this is more of a backup bill.� Earlier, Pickering ased Thomas McNutt, chair of the Student Services Committee, to chair a separate committee on student fees. After the nine-member committee conducted research, the body voted against all fee increases. The Student Service Fee Advisory Board, which is in the Department of Student Af-
Speak up Students who want to address the Student Senate can sign up to speak during open forum. A sign up sheet is located on the door of Koldus 146 prior to 7 p.m., when the meeting begins. fairs and is not affiliated with SGA, voted similarly. “At the end, we proposed a bill saying we wanted to leave the fees where they were,� McNutt said. McNutt said Pickering’s veto was unexpected after the Senate voted 44-7 in favor of the bill. “We were saying you need to find other sources for this money,� McNutt said. “Line by line, these increases didn’t make sense. A lot of these increases were for one-time expenses or projects.� McNutt said asking for fee increases in an economically tough time is unfair to the student body.
howtoapply
corrections
If you are interested in writing or contributing content in The Battalion, apply at thebatt.com, or call 845-3313.
The Battalion welcomes readers’ comments about published information that may require correction. Please contact us at editor@thebatt.com.
The Battalion welcomes any Texas A&M student interested in writing for the arts, campus, metro or sports staffs to try out. We particularly encourage freshmen and sophomores to apply, but students may try out regardless of semester standing or major. No previous journalism experience is necessary.
Congratulations!
Mays Business Fellows Group XXX Maggie Beecher Leslie Bergamo Laura Bergersen Nick Bezner Caroline Blades Jose Bolanos Annmarie Broussard Leigh Anne Castles James Clingman Allison Davis Oliver Debayle
Rachel Duran Lauren Fitzgerald Kristin Floyd Brittney Goldberg Kenneth Goodhue Laura Kiker Kyle Klasnek Allan Leung David Levin Randy Luck Arjun Mohan
Regan Nielsen Kendall Palmer Kendall PÂżster Alexander Smith Anthony Solis Sam Totusek Matt Tramonte Caroline Weathers Kori Wilson Jeffrey Wu
the ultimate gift. Perfect for any Aggie. The 109th edition of Texas A&M University’s official yearbook chronicles the 2010-2011 school year — traditions, academics, the other education, sports, the Corps, Greeks, campus organizations and seniors and graduate students. On sale at the Student Media office, Bldg. #8901 in The Grove (between Albritton Bell Tower and Cain Hall). Hours: 8:30 A.M.–4:30 P.M. Monday– Friday. Cash, check, VISA, MasterCard, Discover and American Express accepted.
Pg. 2-11.30.11.indd 1
11/30/11 12:48 AM
‘
EDITOR’SNOTE The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the various authors and forum participants in this paper do not necessarily reflect those of Texas A&M University, The Battalion or its staff.
MAILCALL GUESTCOLUMNS Make your opinion known by submitting Mail Call or guest columns to The Battalion. Mail
call must be fewer than 200 words and include the author’s name, classification, major and phone number. Staff and faculty must include title. Guest columns must be fewer than 700 words. All submissions should focus on issues not personalities, become property of The Battalion and are subject to editing for style, clarity and space concerns. Anonymous letters
will be read, but not printed. The Battalion will print only one letter per author per month. No mail call will appear in The Battalion’s print or online editions before it is verified. Direct all correspondence to: Editor in chief of The Battalion (979) 845-3315 | mailcall@thebatt.com
Shameless consumerism Friday
voices thebattalion 11.30.2011 page03 thebatt.com
A&M and homosexuality Check out Joshua Howell’s series finale ‘This is not a family’ in the opinion blog section of thebatt.com
MAILCALL
From Richard
Guzman,
senior electrical engineering major
Joe Terrell: ‘Let’s be honest, you have enough stuff’
Evan Andrews — THE BATTALION
More than 226 million Americans, either in store or online, participated in the apocalyptic shopping event known as “Black Friday” on the Friday after Thanksgiving and spent a recordbreaking $52.4 billion. Black Friday marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season and has become synonymous with news footage of crazed customers storming through Wal-Mart’s automatic doors. While I didn’t participate in this year’s shopping festivities like 75 percent of Americans, I did happen to stumble upon a photograph that altered my view of the day’s events. The photograph showed two images side by side, Both were taken on November 25. The picture on the left showed over a thousand customers crammed into a retail store fighting over a crate of Xbox games. The second image was of a line of refugees in Africa waiting for their emergency food rations from the United Nations. It’s amazing what a little perspective can do. I love Christmas. I love the cold weather, the holiday decorations, the music, gathering together as a family and what it represents for my faith. I’m also a fan of nostalgia, which means as soon as the holiday season rolls around I’m reminiscing about all those magical Christmases from years past. As I get older, I realize that most of my
cherished Christmas memories have nothing to do with what I “got” that year. And I think of a lot of you can probably relate. If that’s the case, then why are there people lying bloody in the aisles of Wal-Mart on the day after we are supposed to give thanks for all that we have? We have a “stuff” problem in America. Whether or not we would care to admit it, most of us are consumed by this semi-psychotic, compulsive desire to acquire “stuff” that frankly, we know we don’t need. It’s like a sickness that whispers to us that if we get the new this or that, then we will be happy and fulfilled. Let me spoil the ending for you: All those material objects are never going to satisfy you. If you participated in Black Friday last week, I’m not picking on you. In prior years, I’ve stood in those same lines. I struggle with materialism just like everyone else in America. I’m just suggesting that we rethink the ways in which we approach Christmas. It’s a conversation we need to have. So how do we break the cycle? Take a look at organizations like World Vision and World Concern. Both are humanitarian organizations dedicated to ending poverty in the U.S. and the rest of the world. Both organizations offer a holiday gift guide
in which you can purchase items in someone’s name that will be donated to those in need. For example, you can buy livestock, farm animals, school supplies, water wells and immunizations for children,.These gifts will be sent around the world to help impoverished people groups. And most of them cost between $25 and $100. I’ve been there before. Christmas is approaching and you don’t know what to get your mom, dad, aunt, uncle, etc. How about instead of spending that $35 on something “nice” that they don’t need, you purchase clothing for a child in need through one of these organizations in their name. You’ll be sent a thank you card addressed to that person that you can give them when you exchange Christmas presents. I know several people who think that we shouldn’t help the poor and those in need. To them, poverty is a political issue. Fortunately, my faith doesn’t allow me the luxuries of those types of technicalities. Let’s be honest. You have enough stuff. The people you’re going to buy presents for probably have enough stuff as well. This Christmas, make a difference in someone else’s life that truly needs it. As Aggies, let’s extend the same love and gratitude we have for each other to people groups across the world. Let’s be the generation that takes Christmas back. Joe Terrell is a junior telecommunication major and lifestyles editor for The Battalion.
Michael Rodriguez: Plugging back into the real world
E
veryone is looking down these days. It’s not that people are sad or depressed, it’s that everyone is plugged in, sending text messages, posting something on Facebook or Twitter, or browsing songs on their iPod. We are all getting sucked into this virtual world and, as a result, we are disconnected from the real world. Today we live off cell phones. People lose their minds when they lose their phones. How many phone numbers do you have memorized? I remember a handful of numbers but there was a time I knew all of them. Text messages have taken the place of phone calls. When you talk to someone, you hear their tone, their personality. In a text, there’s little nuance. You’re either :) or :( or lol. Before I left Facebook, I had 313 “friends.” I talked to 10-15 of them at most. Some people stress over how many Facebook friends they have and many think it’s necessary to let their friends know when they’re in a relationship. How many times have you heard, “Now it’s official because we’re Facebook friends?” Facebook can alienate
Pg. 3-11.30.11.indd 1
people who don’t build their friends list. The size of your friends list becomes a status symbol where hundreds of “friends” you never speak to translates into a kind of popularity currency. I will stick with real friends. Even dating has become virtual in today’s society. There was a time when, if you liked someone, you had to ask him or her out. Maybe you got a phone number and had real conversations. Romance may mean buying chocolates, flowers, cards or stuffing notes in lockers. Now computers decide whom we are compatible with. Are you kidding me?! How in the world can a computer tell if people (living, breathing things) are compatible with each other? When are people going to realize
Evan Andrews — THE BATTALION
T
his year’s Black Friday raised consumerism to the next level with nationwide reports of shootings, stabbings fights, assaults with pepper spray and trampled customers.
that there is no formula, no explanation for love? As an engineer, I have tried to figure out what makes a relationship begin, grow and even end. Calculus is easier than relationships. The dating websites keep people from interacting and taking chances. This risk does allow for the possibility of failure. But with failure comes wisdom, and from wisdom comes patience and understanding. Little by little, people are becoming too plugged in. We’re creating our own “Matrix.” People are afraid of everyday things like face-to-face conversations, asking a person out, or going outside to play games. Technology is incredibly valuable, but let’s not forget that we are people. We must be able to communicate with one another face-to-face and heart-to-heart. In the virtual world there are no raw emotions, no body language, and no tone. Let’s unplug ourselves and get back in touch with the real world. Michael Rodriguez is a senior industrial engineering major and opinion columnist for The Battalion.
I understand how the economy is, but how can transportation spend so much money on these three-wheel Segways when staff cannot get their yearly raise? I am a student worker and my wage could not go up its yearly extra quarter, nor can my department afford a golf cart to better serve the eight buildings we take care of. I called the company from which Transportation Services purchased these new Segways. They cost an average of $9,000 and one lady who was writing tickets told us they bought the $10,000 models! How is it fair or right that transportation can be throwing away $80k in new Segways while the scooters they used to use, are sitting in the parking garages with no one to use them! This is wrong when everyone cannot get a raise and is struggling with payments, but Texas A&M approved this purchase which allows for even more parking tickets to the students and staff the University already charges so much money for being here.
From Sarah Szuminski, Class of 2004 Watching Mike Sherman bow his head in defeat and avert his eyes from the final play in Thursday’s end to the Aggies’ most storied rivalry was perfectly illustrative of his coaching persona. This season I’ve watched Sherman stoically grace the sidelines as our team’s energy and confidence melted down game after game, studying his playbook when he should have been rallying our boys. A&M is home to the Twelfth Man: a passion and energy that is second to none. Sherman’s indifferent sideline manner belongs back in the NFL where no one has any heart, not in Aggieland. He’s failed our team enough.
From Chandler Headington, sophomore political science major The Nov. 4 guest column “All mixed up” centered on the premise that AfricanAmericans view heritage incorrectly. The author notes that he does not reference his past heritage, instead he exemplifies his current identity by saying he is an American. Is this any better a way of thinking? The original article illustrates a ubiquitous and erroneous explanation of ethnicity, tradition and heritage. I suppose the “All Mixed Up” author isn’t as Italian as I originally thought. Oh, wait. Later on in the article he does say his ancestors were Italian. He is an ItalianAmerican, regardless of whether or not he identifies as such. Following his line of reasoning, he doesn’t eat Italian food either. wYeah, Right.
11/29/11 10:11 PM
r.
n
r.
ity
D
a W
rs e iv n U
lto
D
Check buyback prices online:
r.
n
ai
ew
D
r.
M
h s u
N
ge r o
D
B
e
G
Pg. 4-11.30.11.indd 1
11/28/11 2:49:54 PM
news
page 5 wednesday 11.30.2011
thebattalion
Even though it’s illegal, and you shouldn’t be taking other people’s prescriptions, it’s out there in mass volumes. Especially for hard majors like biomedical sciences or engineering, it really helps you out.” — student who admits to using the drug Adderall without a prescription
Roger Zhang — THE BATTALION
Prescription Continued from page 1
issue being judged as one of academic misconduct. “It would be an interesting conversation to have, but to this point, we don’t have a policy on it,” Powers said. Instead, misuse of stimulant medications such as Adderall, Vyvanse or Ritalin — another ADHD medication — has fallen on the lap of Student Conflict Resolution Services and is treated as a substance abuse issue. Susan Kimbrough, program coordinator for alcohol and drug education programs, said misusing medications is a violation of student rules and is handled accordingly. She said the University wouldn’t typically press charges against a student, but treats the violation as a student conduct issue. Kimbrough said students who are found responsible for distributing or misusing these medications could face a wide array of University consequences, up to and including expulsion for those caught distributing. “It would probably be a minimum of some length of conduct probation,” Kimbrough said. “I would think, depending on the severity of the details that were to come out, if someone is dealing a controlled substance on our campus, it could be a separable offense, so that could mean … a suspension or expulsion.” The University Police Department, UPD, may be involved as well. In 2011, UPD has made 40 arrests for drug offenses, most of which involved marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Only four involved controlled substances, one of which was Ritalin. Allan Baron, a sergeant with UPD, said police work closely with Student Conflict Resolution Services when investigating these cases. When trying to determine if a student is distributing prescription medications illegally on campus, he said police consult confidential informants, conduct surveillance and obtain search warrants. “Medication such as Adderall, Ritalin, Vyvanse … are widely used by today’s generation. It’s one of those things where you hear that students are taking it, or getting it from their roommate, or buying it from their roommate,” Baron said. “There is definitely an issue. There can be severe consequences for that.” The first source, who has used Adderall without a prescription multiple times to study
for exams, said the fact that it is illegal to take another’s medications is not a concern. “I feel like speeding is against the law but we still do it,” he said. “Even though it’s illegal, and you shouldn’t be taking other people’s prescriptions, it’s out there in mass volumes. Especially for hard majors like biomedical sciences or engineering, it really helps you out.” Under Texas law, it is a felony for individuals to be in possession of controlled substances including Ritalin, Vyvanse and Adderall without a prescription. Punishments are graded based on the amount of the substance in possession at the time of arrest. According to the Texas Penal Code, having less than one gram of an amphetamine without a prescription is punishable by imprisonment for up to two years and a fine of as much as $10,000. The maximum penalty — for possessing more than 400 grams illegally — is a seconddegree felony, punishable by a minimum sentence of two years and a maximum of 20 years, in addition to a fine as high as $10,000. Baron said students are often unaware of the gravity of their conduct. “I would think that some probably are aware of the consequences and some are not,” Baron said. Dr. David McClellan, program director at the Texas A&M Health Science Center, said students endanger themselves when they take prescription drugs without medical need or outside of a physician’s instruction. “These are potentially very useful medications for the right individuals, but I think they also have the potential for significant side effects and adverse reactions,” McClellan said. “That’s why the FDA believes they should only be prescribed by physicians.” The side effects from misuse of stimulant medications such as Adderall range from emotional distress and fainting to, in rare circumstances, death. McClellan said undiagnosed conditions play a role in the medication’s effect on an individual, and pose a threat to drug misusers. McClellan cited undiagnosed personality and mood disorders, high blood pressure and structural heart defects as factors that can contribute to adverse reactions. Even in the face of pressure as finals approach, he said students should act prudently. “People taking these medications should be under the care of a physician that can monitor them,” McClellan said. Robert Carpenter contributed to this report.
now on sale
WE’VE GOT YOUR NUMBER
2011-2012 Texas A&M Campus Directory Listings of departments, administrators, faculty, staff, students, and other information about A&M, plus yellow pages.
D
EPARTMENTS: If you did not order Campus Directories, you may charge and pick them up in Bldg. #8901 in The Grove (between Albritton Bell Tower and Cain Hall). Cost is $3 per copy. Please bring a Student Media Work Order.
S
TUDENTS: If you ordered a 2011-2012 Campus Directory, stop by Bldg. #8901 in The Grove, (between Albritton Bell Tower and Cain Hall) to pick up your copy. Please bring your Student ID. If you did not order a Campus Directory, you may purchase a copy for $3 plus tax (by cash, check or credit card). Call 845-0569 for info. Hours: 8:30 A.M.– 4:30 P.M. Monday–Friday
Pg. 5-11.30.11.indd 1
11/30/11 12:46 AM
classifieds see ads at thebatt.com
PLACE
AN AD Phone 845-0569 or Fax 845-2678 The Grove, Bldg. #8901 Texas A&M University
AUTO
WHEN
TO CALL 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday Insertion deadline: 1 p.m. prior business day
FOR RENT
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.
BED AND BREAKFAST Romantic Getaways & Engagements, secluded cabin suites. All Day, All Night. www.7flodge.com 979-690-0073
FOR RENT $1299 4bd/2.5ba/2car, 1mile from TAMU. W/D, all appliances included, pool, security system, gated access, free landscaping, 4 dedicated parking spots. New carpet and paint, walk-ins, Pets OK. FM2818 at Luther, 979-739-3774, or canyoncreekcircle@gmail.com $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. $396/mo each bedroom, new large home in Southern Trace subdivision. 4bd, each with private bath. Why get an apartment? Front lawncare included. Or rent entire home $1175/mo. 10 minutes from campus, available now 281-919-8869. $400 off first month’s rent if lease is signed before 12/5! 2/1 within walking distance to campus, washer, dryer, refridgerator, new laminate wood flooring. 2 downstairs units available, both have been remodeled. $650 with water paid or $865 with all bills paid including TV/Internet. Contact Sherry Perry, Broker/Realtor at 979-229-7254 or email sherry@iclickhomes.com 1 acre, 5min. to campus, fenced yard, pasture. 4bd/2ba. W/D. $1250/mo. Owner/realtor, 979-219-0405. 1 roommate needed, 2bd/1ba apt. Free water, on shuttle, kitchen furnished, $313/mo. plus bills. On Southwest Parkway. Call Eric 806-570-0375 or Diego 956-243-2924 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. 2 blocks from campus. Renovated 4bd/4ba, 2 living areas, fridge, W/D. Can rent furnished or not. $1600/mo. 817-875-0570 2 roommates needed for 4/4 Waterwood Townhouse. $450/mo. plus bills. Common areas furnished. Contact nickverzosa2@gmail.com for more information or http://collegestation.craigslist.org/ roo/2680283519.html 2-Rooms available for sublease. 3bdrm/3ba duplex, 1400sqft on Oldenburg Lane, $400/mo. +utilities. For more info, call 210-287-5147. 2bd/1.5 ba with large closets, large fenced backyard, fireplace. 2404 B Long Dr. $575/mo. 979-777-9933.
Buck Weirus Spirit Award Apply Online! AggieNetwork.com/BuckWeirus
Applications available January 2, 2012
2bd/1ba apartment, 800sq.ft. New appliances, carpeting and tile. W/D. Bus route. $600/mo. +$300 deposit. 210-391-4106. 2bd/2ba duplex, brand new tile floors and carpet, fenced backyard, $700/mo, 979-696-1787. 2bd/2ba duplex. With large walk-in closets, large fenced backyard. Great location and shuttle. University Oaks. $700/mo. 979-693-1448. 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 bedroom remodeled home, close to campus, call JC 254-721-6179. 3 or 4-bdrm, 2.5bath Mediterranean style duplexes w/garage, security system, all appliances including W/D. 979-297-3720 or 979-292-6168. 3/2 plus game room totally updated, fenced, pets ok, close to campus. $1050/mo. 979-776-8984. 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 townhouse at Fraternity Row, on shuttle route. Available now, $1075/mo. plus deposit. 817-559-7878. 3bd/2ba 2-cargarage, living room with fireplace, large backyard, $1250/mo, 979-696-1787. 3bd/2ba duplex with garage, tile floors, fenced backyard, $800/mo, 979-696-1787. 4/2 close to campus, and on shuttle, fenced, pets ok, F/P, W/D. $1050/mo. 979-776-8984. 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 4/4 University Place condo, W/D, private bath, pool, on shuttle. $300/mo. Call 979-690-8213 or 979-422-9849.
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. 2-Blocks to campus. Refrigerator, W/D, $1100/mo. 105 Fleetwood. 832-541-6450. 4bd/2ba house. Close to campus, wood floors, tile floors, ceiling fans, granite countertops, W/D, fenced yards. 979-776-6079. www.aggielandleasing.com Beautiful apartment! (Woodland sublease) -Available now till the end of July. Furnished 1 bed 1 bath of 3 bed/3bath apartment. Washer/Dryer included. All utilities included (cable, Internet, ect.) for $575.00 Call today! 409-550-0338 or 409-550-3952. CS nice 4/2/2 vents W/D partially furnished, water paid, 6 mo. lease, available January, $1350. 817-559-2932. Duplex for sub-lease, 2bd/2ba on Tabor Road right off Hwy.6. $725/mo. Lease ends 07/15/2012. Call Michael, 832-451-7844. Free ethernet and extended cable. Great prices. aggieapartments.com 979-693-1906.
PRIVATE PARTY WANT ADS
SPECIAL
thebattalion 11.30.2011 page6
$10 for 20 words running 5 days, if your merchandise is priced $1,000 or less (price must appear in ad). This rate applies only to non-commercial advertisers offering personal possessions for sale. Guaranteed results or you get an additional 5 days at no charge. If item doesn’t sell, advertiser must call before 1 p.m. on the day the ad is scheduled to end to qualify for the 5 additional insertions at no charge. No refunds will be made if your ad is cancelled early.
FOR RENT
FOR RENT
FREE IPAD/FIRST MONTH FREE. Spacious 2bd/1ba. Close to campus, on shuttle route. Large kitchen with full appliances. W/D connections. Front and back patios. Ceiling fans. HILLSTONE on the PARKWAY, 528 Southwest Parkway. 979-693-6102. Open 8:30-5:30 Monday-Friday Furnished Woodlands sublease. 1-bedroom of the 2bd/2.5ba touwnhouse. Spring Semester. W/D, cable, internet. $630. 713-249-3271. Great Deal! 2bd/2ba. Close to campus. New carpet, W/D connection, fridge, fans. Ready to move in December 1st. Pets are Welcome. Only $695.00/monthly! 979-412-1212 or fadi@kalcorp.com Great Deal! 4bd/2ba. Close to campus. Wood floors, W/D connection, fridge, fans. Ready to move in January 1st. Pets are Welcome. Only $795.00/monthly! 979-412-1212 or fadi@kalcorp.com http://sites.google.com/site/aaarentalcs/ Duplex for rent, 2/1, no deposit. $599/mo. 979-450-0098. Large 2bd/2ba duplex. New carpet, safe neighborhood. $750/mo. Pets okay. 979-703-5906. Nice 2/1 duplex, fenced yard, tile floors, W/D connections, lawn care, available December, $650/mo. 979-324-5835. Northgate. New 2/2 and 3/2 house. Walk to campus. aggievillas.net Call 979-255-5648. 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 Pre-lease now for Jan 15th move in/ fenced backyard/ free cable & internet/ yard care & pest control Hervey Oney, LLC Call for tour 979-693-2434; 1 bed duplex $450.00 month; 2 bed duplex $575.00 month. SUB LEASE 675.00 UNTIL JULY 31, 2012. Townhome 2/BR, 1.5/Bath on shuttle, washer/dryer connections in the unit, abundant storage, spacious floor plan(1200sq ft), privacy fence around patio, 2 designated parking spaces in the rear. Contact by email for more information glendak.davis@yahoo.com. SUBLEASE 1/1/12-7/31/12 male roommate for northgate 2/2 (private bathroom) apartment. $485/mo. W/D included. 918-232-5639. Sublease at Cowboy Country. Entire unit available. 3bd/2ba, $900/mo. Stalls available, turnout behing duplex. Available January to July, option to resign. 713-823-2763
New Pepperoni Pepperoni Special
Try our
11.00
Only For $ 1741 University Dr.
979-846-3600
1740 Rock Prairie Rd.
979-680-0508
Townhomes. Great location! On shuttle. 2bd/1.5ba upstairs, 1/2bath downstairs. W/D connections, some units w/fireplace. Large pantry. Lots of closet space. Fenced patio. Water and pest-control paid. Some units fully remodeled. $750-$950/mo. Leasing office located at 1000 Balcones Drive, CS. 979-703-8282.
FOR SALE 2bd/1.5ba Condo, adjacent to Wolf Pen park, on bus route, FSBO $80,500, call 940-337-6337 or 940-692-7078.
HELP WANTED ARE YOU READY FOR BASKETBALL? NEED EXTRA CASH? We need officials for our Youth Basketball League. Pay ranges from $9.00 to $11.00/game. Games last about one hour. Training begins 01/14/2012. Email dhudspeth@cstx.gov call 764-3424 Athletic men for calendars, books, etc. $100-$200/hr, up to $1000/day. No experience. aggieresponse@gmail.com BMI Defense Systems, Soft Goods Assemblers - Soft Goods Division. Now hiring for the remainder of fall as well as the spring semester. Local manufacturing company has immediate multiple openings for assemblers in our Soft Goods Division. These are part-time positions working 4:45pm to 9:00pm Monday-Friday. Motivated, energetic individuals will be required to perform general production type tasks which include positioning parts and materials for processing, and assembling heavy duty textiles in a high energy environment. Textile knowledge a plus. Requires good hand-eye coordination, extended sitting, standing, lifting, pushing and pulling of 20-40pounds, as well as the ability to follow written and verbal work instructions. Requires a HS Diploma or GED. Starting pay is $10 per hour. Pre-employment background checks and drug testing required. Job Referencs: 11-004. Send resumes to employment@bmidefense.com EEO/Affirmative Action Employer. Cleaning commercial buildings at night, M-F. Call 979-823-5031 for appointment. COACHES WANTED! We need enthusiastic, positive, motivational volunteer coaches for YOUTH BASKETBALL. Season begins early 01/2012! Email dhudspeth@cstx.gov call 764-3424. Full-time medical technician for growing allergy practice wanted. 4-year degree and 1-year commitment required. December graduates welcome! We are looking for an intelligent, positive, friendly person to join our team. We teach skills that are an asset for anyone interested in a career in healthcare and can help a candidate get into medical school. E-mail resume to docmgr@yahoo.com Leasing Consultant needed, individual needs to be energetic, customer oriented, have a professional appearance and able to work weekends, base pay plus commission, PT available, apply in person at 950 Colgate, CS , The Trails at Wolf Pen Creek.
puzzle answers can be found online at www.thebatt.com
HELP WANTED
MUSIC
Leasing Consultant(s)- Looking for dynamic individuals for multiple Bryan/College Station apartment communities. Full and/or Part time positions available immediately. Weekends required. Candidates who enjoy a fast paced environment, possess strong sales background with customer service skills. e-mail resume to willowickmgr@comcapp.com NINFA’S MEXICAN RESTURANT COLLEGE STATION. Now accepting applications for Wait/Servers and Hostess Staff. Will train. Flexible schedules available. Good communicators and strong customer service skills preferred. Apply in person Mon-Fri 11am-4pm at 1007 Earl Rudder Freeway South, College Station.
Party Block Mobile DJ- Peter Block, professional 22yrs experience. Specializing in Weddings, TAMU functions, lights/smoke. Mobile to anywhere. Book early!! 979-693-6294. http://www.partyblockdj.com
PETS Chinese Emperial ShihTzu Teacups. $350-$500. Expecting Maltipoos. 979-324-2866. linda_d_54@yahoo.com Kittens $30: rescues that have been spayed or neutered, vaccinated, microchipped for identification, & come with supplies, 979-574-6509 or BCSSpayDay@gmail.com.
ROOMMATES Now hiring field representatives for political campaign. Earn money for Christmas Break. Apply to amy.rister@bob-yancy.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. Wanted: Energetic people for Kids Klub After-School Program. Employment begins Spring Semester, 1/4/12. Applications accepted at 1812 Welsh, Mon.-Fri., 8am-4pm. Kids Klub, 979-764-3831. www.cstx.gov/kidsklub
LOST & FOUND Anniversary Gift Lost at Texas game, silver bracelet with diamonds and three black stones, Reward Offered! 979-219-8669.
2 roommates needed. $375/month. 4bd/3ba house near Graham Rd in CS. Grad and upperclassmen preferred. Call John 979-661-0848. Roommates needed. 4bd/4bth $350/mo, washer/dryer, phone & internet, University Place on Southwest Parkway. 281-844-2090.
SERVICES Make your wife happy for the Holidays, get your house painted or carpentry work! Paint-Rite. 979-778-2855. Traditions Limos, Hummer Limos service, Ag discount, 979-587-1727, traditionslimos.com
TUTORS Need a Tutor? Friendly, helpful one-on-one private tutors for all subjects at TAMU/Blinn and Sam Houston State. Check us out at www.99tutors.com, 979-268-8867.
If You Have Something To Sell, Remember Classifieds Can Do It! Call 845-0569
MOTORCYCLE
the battalion
Harley Sportster. Fully Customized front to back, custom paint, low mileage, perfect condition! A real looker! 979-778-2855.
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
BRYAN: 2/1.5 NEWLY RENOVATED MIDTOWN MANOR APTS, AVAILABLE NOW, STARTING AT $535 FOR QUALIFIED PART-TIME STUDENTS, W/D CON, POOL & FREE INTERNET, CABLE & MORE! $535-$575/mo 979.775.2292 www.twincityproperties.com
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-$715/mo 979.764.RENT(7368) www.twincityproperties.com
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
CONN, WALK-IN CLOSETS, PETS WELCOME, ALL APPL, WOOD FLOORING, FENCED YARD, PETS OK! $775-$895/ mo 979.764.RENT(7368) www.twincityproperties.com
COLLEGE STATION: 2/1 DOWNSTAIRS UNITS AVAIL, WALKING/ BIKING DISTANCE FROM TAMU, ASF 825, ALL APPL, CENTRAL A/H, WOOD FLOORING, W/D CONN! $515/mo 979.764.RENT(7368) www.twincityproperties.com
COLLEGE STATION: 3 BED/2 BA WITH STUDY HOMES, NEAR TAMU BUS ROUTE, ALL APPL, WOOD FLOORING, NEWLY REMODELED, FENCED YARD, PETS OK! $795/mo 979.764.RENT(7368) www.twincityproperties.com
BRYAN: AVAILABLE NOW, OVER 3,300 sq.ft. - 8 BEDROOM OR 4 SUITES, Each 800 sq.ft. Suite Includes a Master Bedroom, A Study with Extra Closet, and a Full-Size Bath ALL BILLS PAID*, PETS OK, CALL FOR DETAILS 979.764.RENT(7368) www.twincityproperties.com
BRYAN: 3 BEDROOM HOMES, W/D
STUDIES IN PROGRESS ATHLETES FOOT STUDY
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
Pg. 6-11-30-11.indd 1
11/29/11 1:52:52 PM
news
page 7 wednesday 11.30.2011
thebattalion
bryan-college station Students arrested for racing
Stephanie Leichtle — THE BATTALION
Gymnast Jonathan Horton, right, won the silver medal for high bar in the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Olympics Continued from page 1
myself and finding a new passion,” Liukin said. Marlon Shirley spoke about leadership and overcoming obstacles. He was forced to overcome a grueling childhood. His father prostituted his mother, which led to him being sent to an orphanage at 3 years old. While living there, Shirley lost his foot in a lawnmower accident. He was later adopted at the age of 9, and Shirley said his new family set an example of how to succeed. They gave him the love and support he needed, and were important leaders in his life. However, becoming a world champion athlete did not come easily for Shirley. “When I started running the hundred, I was butt-naked last … for two years I lost every race I ran,” Shirley said. Then one day, it clicked. Shirley overcame the physical and personal difficulties he faced to achieve his dreams. He said that he has learned how to be a leader through his athletic career. Shirley won the 100 meter dash in the 2000 Paralympic games. “Like with my coaches, I just have to trust them,” Shirley said.
“Trust that they know what they are doing, and if I went in there and second-guessed everything they are doing then I think I would fail as being a leader.” Jonathon Horton encouraged students to push past barriers on the way to achieving their dreams. At the 2006 World Gymnastics Championships, Horton fell in 5-out-of-6 of his events, and considered quitting gymnastics all together. Rather than quit, Horton intensified his training to achieve his dreams. “You hit barriers, you hit a wall in your career. I think no matter what you do in your life, you’re going to hit a wall,” Horton said. When his team lost two members right before the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Horton said he refused to let this barrier stop them from winning. “Just like I did in the past, I was able to refocus. And not only refocus myself, but I was able to get my team to jump on board,” Horton said. They went on to achieve the bronze medal. “If it’s something important to you, no matter how many people doubt you, no matter how many barriers you face, if it’s important to you its worth fighting for,” Horton said. “So put everything on the line, and make it happen.”
Two college students were arrested for drag racing on Wellborn Road Saturday. The officer noticed two cars pull out of Wave’s Z-Islander apartment complex and accelerate to approximately 80 mph, in a 45 mph speed zone, before the officer turned around to pursue the speeding vehicles. Abdulla Alkhoori, the driver of a Mercedes AMG, attends Texas A&M and Rommel HawitMedina, the driver of a Camaro, attends Southern Methodist University. Both students are 20 years old. Drag racing is a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by jail or a fine of $2,000. Robby Smith, staff writer
nation Ohio teen faces trial Teenager Brogan Rafferty was accused of murder Tuesday on charges he was part of a deadly robbery team that lured victims with a phony Craigslist job ad. Authorities say applicants answering a Craigslist ad for a job at a nonexistent cattle ranch in Noble County, 90 miles south of Akron in rural southeastern Ohio, were robbed, then killed. Associated Press
NEW STUDENT HOUSING OPENING FALL 2012
SAVE $185 WITH ZERO DOWN N O V E M B E R 1 8 - 2 5 • L I M I T E D T I M E O N LY
2-story townhomes • resort-style amenities • leather-style sectional sofas • huge walk-in closets • washer & dryer full kitchens with stainless steel appliances & granite countertops • hardwood-style floors • pet friendly
SCAN & LIKE
A P P LY O N L I N E T O D AY @ U C L U B T O W N H O M E S . C O M 979.703.1923 • 801 Marion Pugh Drive Rates, fees, amenities, renderings and utilities included are subject to change.
Pg. 7-11.30.11.indd 1
11/30/11 12:57 AM
Pg. 8-11.30.11.indd 1
11/29/11 1:55:49 PM