Editor's note This is the last edition of The Battalion that will be on stands this week. Check for news updates at thebatt.com and pick up The Batt’s final 2011 publication on Monday.
thebattalion ● tuesday,
december 6, 2011
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Photos by Robert Carpenter — THE BATTALION
Left: Federal agents with bomb-sniffing dogs exit Evans Library Monday after searching the building for explosives. Right: University police enforce evacuations of Evans Library, top, and the Evans Library Annex, bottom.
Bomb hoax empties library 16-year-old arrested, charged with terroristic threat Robby Smith The Battalion Evans Library staff received a bomb threat Monday morning, leading to the library’s evacuation and initiating the University’s emergency response processes for the second time in four days. Following a University Police Department, UPD, investigation, police in Baytown, Texas, apprehended a 16-year-old male Monday evening suspected of sending the threat from a computer in Goose Creek Independent School District. The suspect, whose name was not released because he is a juvenile, was charged with terroristic threat — a third degree felony — before being released to his parents later in the evening, according to a UPD press release.
Attempts to contact Baytown police for comment were unsuccessful. Library staff received the threat at approximately 11 a.m. through the Library Chat Resource Service feature, which allows students and faculty to communicate with library personnel through an online chat service. Library staff communicated the threat to UPD, which dispatched units to the location and evacuated the building. Rodrigo Maldonado, junior economics major, said he was studying on the second floor when library staff calmly but firmly instructed students to immediately evacuate. “Everything was pretty calm,” Maldonado said. “Library officials just came to us on all the floors, evacuating us, just telling us to leave calmly and patiently. And that is what everyone did.”
Maldonado said police and library staff did not tell students why they were asked to leave. “The evacuation was pretty efficient if you ask me, but they did not say anything about the bomb threat,” Maldonado said. Maldonado learned the reason for the evacuation when he received a Code Maroon alert on his cell phone approximately a half-hour later. The alert, which had an 11:25 a.m. timestamp, informed recipients of the bomb threat and instructed students to avoid the area. Walkways on all sides of Evans Library remained open to pedestrian traffic. UPD personnel and yellow caution tape prevented students from venturing
Students walk past Evans Library Monday afternoon while bombsniffing dogs sweep the building.
See Hoax on page 6
texas
silver taps
District election to be decided in runoff
Brilliant student, musician, friend
Robby Smith The Battalion There was no decisive winner in the November special election for Texas House District 14 state representative to fill the incomplete term of Fred Brown, as no candidate won a majority of the votes. The runoff election is between Republicans Bob Yancy and John Raney, both local businessmen. Election Day is Dec. 13. Candidates said they have done a few things to change their campaign strategies. “I have remained focused on connecting with each and every voter by walking door to door, listening to their concerns and personally asking for each vote,” Yancy said. “And, I’ve continued talking with groups around town, for example this week
I addressed the student senate at Texas A&M and talked with Aggies about this important election.” “We are going to run some TV ads, which we did not do last time,” Raney said. “We also are going to do some more direct mail. However, Raney said his campaign message remains the same. “We’re sticking with the same message,” Raney said. “Experience of integrity and conservative philosophy.” While the two candidates are working to come out on top in this election, another election is approaching in March. “I’m very focused on this upcoming special election run-off and haven’t given a whole lot of thought See Runoff on page 6
Kevin Smith The Battalion The A&M community lost a great mind and musician when Austin Fannin passed away Oct. 22. Fannin, senior recreation, park and tourism sciences major, left behind fond memories of friendship, intelligent conversation and incredible guitar riffs. He will be remembered at 10:30 p.m. Tuesday at Silver Taps in Academic Plaza. “The greatest thing about Austin was that he had this wry wit, so things would come out of his mouth that you would least expect — he was just so funny,” said Fannin’s mother, Kathy Fletcher. “He was always so great at play-
nation&world
See Fannin on page 5
‘It was impossible not to love him.’ -Cam Fannin Austin Gray Fannin, senior recreation, park and tourism sciences major
Silver Taps
◗ 10:30 p.m. Tuesday in Academic Plaza ◗ Free parking is available to students between 9 p.m. and 2 a.m. in University Center Garage. ◗ Students living on campus are asked to extinguish lights between 10:15 and 11 p.m. ◗ Students can write letters to Austin Fannin’s family on Tuesday at the memorial box in Academic Plaza and at tables in the Quadrangle, Koldus Plaza and Wehner Building.
2011 year in review Natalee Blanchat
ASSOCIATED PRESS
Sporting a pair of 2011-shaped glasses, this gorilla-costumed partier celebrates the new year in New York’s Times Square.
Pg. 1-12.06.11.indd 1
ing devil’s advocate; I would say something and he would rebuttal it with something else that I never even thought of.” Fannin was said to have had a gift for making acquaintances no matter who they were. “On drives from Midland to College Station, our conversations would fly by,” Fletcher said. “He could talk about anything and was interested in everything like philosophy, religion, politics and, of course, music.” David Whitmore, business management major at Blinn, played in a band with Fannin and remembered his friend as a great musician, which he said spoke well of Fannin’s overall character
Feb. 11, 1989 - Oct. 22, 2011 Austin Gray Fannin
The Battalion Looking back, 2011 was a year full of ups and downs — unrest in the Middle East, including the deaths of Osama bin Laden and Muammar Gaddafi; a North Dakota oil boom; protests that occupied the world; the loss of creative genius Steve Jobs; A&M’s SEC realignment — this year has seen its fair share of historic events. Almost one year ago, on Dec. 18, 2010, an awakening struck the Middle East that would ultimately define 2011 for people across the world. This revolutionary spark of civil up-
risings that stretched from western Africa to Egypt to Iraq was called the Arab Spring. The largest movement during the Arab Spring started on Feb. 26, prompted by the use of social media networks. After eight months of revolt, and with the help of the National Atlantic Treaty Organization, Muammar Gaddafi, the leader of the Libyan Arab Republic, was killed on Oct. 20. Gaddafi’s killing was not the only death of a Middle Eastern leader on Americans’ radar this year. Osama bin Laden, leader of the militant Islamic terrorist organization, al-Qaida, was
responsible for thousands of lives lost during the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. On May 2, hundreds of Washington residents flocked to the outside gates of the White House to display patriotic signs after hearing that bin Laden was killed by a team of American operatives in Abbottabad, Pakistan. Michael Greenwald, dean of international studies, said the death of bin Laden was a moment Americans had been waiting for more than a decade. “I think that the death of bin Laden has been a tremendously positive thing,” Greenwald said. “It took 10 years to track him down but we finalSee 2011 on page 4
12/6/11 12:43 AM
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Pop Culture 2011 Films of the year “The Tree of Life�– Directed by Terrence Malick Terrell: Terrence Malick’s dreamlike film will (and did) split audiences. With it’s gorgeous cinematography and minimalist acting style, The Tree of Life is an honest and abstract look at mankind’s role in creation and our relationship with a God we struggle to comprehend. And it has dinosaurs.
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“Shame�– Directed by Steve McQueen Goetz: A once-in-a-lifetime performance by Michael Fassbender anchors this hauntingly beautiful film about the relationship between sexuality and emotional intimacy. While unflinching in its explicitness and not for the faint of heart, any fan of challenging cinema will want to make the pilgrimage to their nearest art-house to check it out.
“Winnie the Pooh�– Directed by Stephen Anderson DuBose: Winnie The Pooh is my choice for movie of the year because of it’s nostalgic value and tasteful simplicity. It’s not 3-D, the theme song hasn’t been tampered with and the characters haven’t been altered. It’s just the silly old bear and the rest of the gang, right where you left them.
“Warrior�– Directed by Gavin O’Connor Bizzell: Warrior is one of those movies that resonate with you no matter what background you came from. I found Warrior to be an intense portrayal of all these things, setting the stage with masterfully crafted dialogue and touching scenes to culminate in a literal battle for life.
COURTESY IMAGES
Games of the year “Skyrim� – Developed by Bethesda Studios Bizzell & Terrell: With more than 200 hours of gameplay, Skyrim places you into the middle of the epic world of Tameriel and forces you to make your own decisions. Skyrim boasts some of the most impressive visuals every displayed on a console. Featuring endless quests and character paths, no two players will come away with the same experience.
“Uncharted 3� – Developed by Naughty Dog Goetz: Sure the developers may have put story aside in favor of huge set pieces like a race through sinking cruise ship or a classic Indiana Jones-style fistfight on the open hatch of a C-130, but Nathan Drake and his crew are still the most engaging, believable characters in gaming today.
Albums of the year “Ghosts Upon the Earth� – Gungor Terrell: Blending eclectic instrumentation and haunting melodies, Gungor has crafted a concept album built on nothing less than the bibical narrative of mankind. Ghosts Upon the Earth is one of the most intricate albums you’ll listen to all year – a unique hybrid of Muse, Mumford & Sons and Sufjan Stevens.
“Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming� – M83 Goetz: With a double-album that alternates between eardrumsmashing synth-pop and serene acoustic lullabies, this album is a musical trip unlike any other released this year. This is the music you hear in your dreams.
“21�– Adele DuBose: Our generation lacks in soul and depth when it comes to mainstream music, but thankfully, Adele gave us 21, an album overflowing with emotion, talent and class. She reaches more range than any other pop star could dream of and her lyrics, if read aloud, would read like poetry.
“In Waves� – Trivium Bizzell: Trivium combines dual white-hot guitar riffs with blasting bass pedal beats for the most fun I’ve had with music in a long time. On their new album you will truly experience the fusion of classic and new metal. The results will not disappoint and may even resonate with the most critical of listeners.
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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 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. 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: 979-845-2678. Subscriptions: A part of the Student Services Fee entitles each Texas A&M student to pick up a single copy of The Battalion. First copy free, additional copies $1. Mail subscriptions are $125 per school year. To charge by Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express, call 979-845-2613.
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pop culture 2011 thebattalion
page 3 tuesday 12.6.2011
witter Feed
Book of the year
Show of the year
“Reamde”– Written by Neal Stephenson
“Community”– Created by Dan Harmon
Terrell: Neal Stephenson is known for his dense and ambitious cerebral thrillers. Reamde proves no different as it weaves together plot threads involving a computer virus, a massively popular online game, terrorists, hackers and CIA agents that climaxes with a shootout on the USCanadian border – one of the best action set pieces ever written.
#bestfilm Deathly hallows 2 because it was the perfect ending to the series!
Terrell: No TV show is better at making fun of TV shows than Community. With a great cast of characters, quirky humor and joke-a-minute delivery style, Community skews pop culture left and right with its self-contained episode structure that borders on epic. Just google “Community zombie episode” or “paintball episode.” You’re welcome.
“Matterhorn”– Written by Karl Malantes
@swoomasaurus, Stephanie
Goetz: This book was actually released last year, but the paperback came out this year so I’m going to count it. Marlantes offers what could arguably be considered one of the most vivid, true-to-life novels of a soldier’s life during the Vietnam War ever written. Combines the gritty details of the conflict with gorgeous prose and characters who aren’t the standard soldier stereotypes.
Crazy Stupid Love. What more do you need than a great comedy, Steve Carell and a shirtless Ryan Gosling? @Maha90, Maha Kaissi
#bestalbum Definitely Foster the People’s “Torches.” There’s more to this alt band than Pumped Up Kicks!
“Breaking Bad”– Created by Vince Gilligan Goetz: Walter White’s descent from mildmannered chemistry teacher to villainous drug- lord continued this year in the endlessly captivating AMC show’s fourth season. 2011’s 13-episode run started off slow but built up to a bang the likes of which few television shows have ever reached. This is the definition of must-see TV.
“New Girl”– Created by Elizabeth Meriwether
“The Marriage Plot”– Written by Jeffrey Eugenides
@kec0309, Kate Chapman
DuBose: The Marriage Plot follows Madeleine Hanna as she writes her senior thesis on the classic marriage plots so often relied upon by authors like Jane Austin or George Eliot. Just as great as the nineteenth century romantic literature, but sensitive to feminism, sexual freedom and divorce, it’s an intelligent love story equipped to satisfy both the romantics and the realists.
Death Cab for Cutie’s “Codes and Keys.” Great band, lyrics, and music. One song will be my first dance at my wedding! @aggieastronaut, Keri Bean
Florence + The Machine’s “Ceremonials.” No other album was as bold or daring! @Buntacular, Brandon Bunt
“A Dance with Dragons”– Written by George Martin Bizzell: George Martin is well-known today as the man behind Game of Thrones, the first in a fantasy series recently adapted by HBO. In A Dance With Dragons, fourth in the series, one can expect layer upon layer of political intrigue, shadowy deals in the dark and plots that often end in blood. Winter is coming, and with it, the most rewarding book of the year.
#bestbook I would have to say “Inheritance.” Because it is a great book in the Eragon series. @blahforever16, Marissa Narragon
#besttvshow
DuBose: New Girl is about a somewhat dorky but lovable teacher in her late 20s, played by Zooey Deschanel. After a terrible break up with a cheating boyfriend, she moves in an apartment she found on Craigslist with three male roommates. The rest of the cast is equally as funny and enjoyable and the script is well written.
“Mythbusters”– Created by Peter Rees Bizzell: Mythbusters has thrived on the zany and chaotic nature of the myths Adam and Jaime pursue, going to great lengths to blow up cement trucks, dodge bullets and test out ninja tactics. The 2011 season was no different. The gang returned to run on water, wave katanas at some paper armor and generally cause as much mayhem and destruction as possible. Every week I’m back at the same time in the same place to see what they cooked up this time.
Chosen by The Battalion Academy of Pop Culture Sciences
The best show of 2011 was Dexter season 6 because he’s a boss!!
junior media studies major and Lifestyles editor for The Battalion
@amac0913, Alyssa McMahan
Modern Family. That Manny kid comes to Aggie football games and Julie Bowen gets hotter as she ages. Joe Terrell
@AggieBisbee, Bisbee cat
Alec Goetz
junior English major and Lifestyles writer for The Battalion
junior English major and Lifestyles writer for The Battalion
senior English major and desk assistant editor for The Battalion Jennifer DuBose
Matt Bizzell
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The Creator God Leaves Heaven for You! The Christmas Story: The Creator-God of the universe, Jesus Christ, left His home in heaven to become a human being. He lived a perfect life, performed miracles, was betrayed, and wrongfully condemned to death. After being crucified, Jesus' body was placed in a tomb. Three days later, he rose from the dead. After His resurrection, he remained on earth speaking to people for 40 days and then ascended to heaven. Jesus sacrificed himself to make a way for all people to have eternal life in heaven. Jesus said, "I am the light of the world; he who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." -John 8:12. God is reaching out to men and women through His son, Jesus Christ. To find out more about God's relevance in your life, we encourage you to read this article by Josh McDowell: Does Christianity Work? at www.leaderu.com/everystudent/josh/josh.html.
8=G>HI>6C ;68JAIN We are a group of professors, instructors, lecturers, and administrators united by our common experience that Jesus Christ provides intellectually and spiritually satisfying answers to life’s most important questions. We are available to students, faculty, and staff who might like to discuss such questions with us. For more information about the Christian Faculty network and it's activities, please visit our website: http://christianfaculty.tamu.edu Rachel Aaron
Lee Felder
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Health and Kinesiology
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Standing on the ground in Caldwell, Texas, a team of senior electrical engineering majors looked into the heavens while their final electrical design project flew almost 88,000 feet overhead. Two and a half hours after launch, it came falling back to Earth. The four-man group, composed of Richard Colunga, Joel Colston, Sonny Nguyen and Johnathan Laake, composed the idea to send a weather balloon into the atmosphere to capture photos of the curvature of the earth after hearing of a similar endeavor undertaken by Massachusetts Institute of Technology students. The electrical engineering team designed the balloon to include more measurements than the MIT project, including pressure and temperature. The project took nearly an entire semester of planning, and cost the group about $170. It also brought in return a series of high resolution photos capturing Earth from the edges of outer space. Nguyen said that he and his team members have mixed-feelings now that their project is at its end. “We’re very satisfied with the results, and we had a fun time doing it considering this is one of our last projects before graduating,” Nguyen said. “But we’re really relieved it’s over.” The launch of the balloon, which fell back down to Earth with a parachute, took a couple of days to plan as Nguyen and his team had to time the launch in accordance with the weather. The team of seniors also had to run a pre-launch projection to determine where the balloon would land. Once the balloon peaked at approximately 88,000 feet, the race was on to pick up its signal. Joel Colston said that although he and his team planned extensively, the project still came dangerously close to being derailed. “When the balloon was on its way back down, there was a brief period where we had completely lost the signal,” Colston said. “We all kind of stared at each other. We didn’t think we were going to find it.” The team managed to find the balloon; although it had landed more than 100 miles
COURTESY PHOTO
Four senior electrical engineering majors built and released a weather balloon approximately 88,000 feet into the atmosphere. away in Spring, Texas. When the team uploaded the pictures from the balloon’s camera, which had been programmed to snap a photo every 20 seconds on the way up, they were astounded with the images they found. “It’s really cool to see photographs of the earth from as far out into the atmosphere as our balloon was,” Colunga said. “But it’s even cooler to see them when your camera and your work made them possible. I’m really happy with the final results.” The work for Nguyen and his team is not quite finished. Their project is slated to enter into a Texas Instruments competition, and a public demonstration of their balloon’s workings will also take place Tuesday at the Zachry Engineering Center. “Everyone who can make it should come out and see all the hard work we’ve done,” Nguyen said. “We’re all looking forward to showing off our balloon.”
2011 Continued from page 1
ly did it. I think the way it was handled was just brilliant and it brought a lot of closure to an issue Americans have been dealing with for many years.” Another series of revolutions and protests known as the Occupy Wall Street movement sparked in the U.S. when a group of activists stood in New York City’s financial district to protest economic inequality, a high unemployment rate and governmental favoritism toward large corporations. Harland Prechel, professor of sociology, studies the relationships between the government and large corporations who commit corporate malfeasance and engage in “risky behavior,” a fault, Prechel said, that resulted in a sluggish economy. Since the start of the recession in 2008, many young Americans from 18 to 29 — who make up a large portion of the current 8.5 percent unemployment rate — have been waiting for change. Prechel said that the Occupy Wall Street movement, which took place in more than 95 U.S. cities and 82 countries worldwide, was an outlet for people across the world to express their dissatisfaction to corporate executives and elected officials. “We live in a democratic society, and the fundamental point is for people to get out and express their ideas and their views and exercise their democratic rights, and hopefully this will have some influence,” Prechel said. Paul Adamski, junior philosophy major, helped create the Occupy College Station movement on Nov. 3. Adamski said the movement started out small when 20 occupiers met in front of Sul Ross statue, located in front of the Academic Building. However, that number grew to more than 80 participants who later protested on the corner of George Bush Drive and Texas Avenue. “The revolution in Egypt was preceded by
a lot of previous outbursts of civil unrest until things finally fell into place, and that’s how I feel the Occupy movement fits into a larger, historical scheme as a stepping stone to something much more,” Adamski said. “In the future, I want to be able to tell my kids that regardless of the success of this movement, I participated in it because it was the right thing to do.” While Adamski was celebrating his first amendment rights to protest his ideals, thousands of Aggies, including Fredrik Treven, freshman electrical engineering major, also looked ahead to a move that would ultimately change the future of Texas A&M athletics. On Sept. 26, Texas A&M was accepted into the Southeastern Conference — increasing the league’s membership to 13 teams — a move that Treven thinks will better the University. “I like the idea because [the] SEC is a premiere football conference,” Treven said. “For the future, it’s a pretty good move because it seems college football is going toward superconferences,” Treven said. Since he transferred from Tarrant County College in 2008, Sonny Nguyen, senior electrical engineering major, said he has seen significant transitions at Texas A&M, especially this year. With the highly publicized triumphs of A&M’s women’s basketball team — which won the national title on April 5 — to the men’s and women’s track teams taking home gold at the NCAA Outdoor Championships on June 11 and rounding out the year with an historic conference realignment. Nguyen said all eyes are on A&M, a change he believes the University deserves. “I think all of the events of 2011 definitely sum up to a lot of change happening — not just at Texas A&M, but around the world,” Nguyen said. “From revolutions with the Middle East, to us going into a major conference alliance with the SEC, I think it brings a lot of positive change in many aspects. When I look back at my time at A&M, I can say I was there when it was all happening.”
B. Don Russell Electrical Engineering
Donald Saylak Civil Engineering - Emeritus
Cheryl Schaile European Languages
NOTE: This ad presents the personal convictions of the individuals listed herein; the ad does not represent or support any view or position of Texas A&M University or any academic department. The ad does represent and acknowledge the diversity of academic contributions toTexas A&M University by men and women of various race, ethnic group, and cultural background who share the Christian faith.
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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.
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as a well-rounded person. “Austin and I met when we both worked at the Public Policy Research Institute at Texas A&M,� Whitmore said. “We became Facebook friends and his picture had him playing guitar, so eventually we started jamming together which eventually turned into a band we called the ‘Pendelyms End.’ He played lead guitar and I played acoustic guitar and sang. He was one of the best lead guitarists I’ve ever met. He also wrote a lot of his own material, which was always so incredible to hear.� Whenever Whitmore and Fannin had a chance, they loved to play live shows at restaurants and bars including Shotzi’s, Fitzwilly’s and Church Street BBQ. Riley White, Class of 2011, said music was Fannin’s passion, and was what he planned to do after college. “He knew about all genres of music and owned just about any album you could think of,� White said. Along with his gift of music, Fannin also had a knack for making people laugh and leaving a lasting impression. Music was a part of Fannin’s life as much as it was his hobby. White said that even more impressive than Fannin’s music collection was the fact that he could play almost anything on the guitar. “He was like Stevie Ray Vaughan,� White said. Fannin was a character in every sense of the word, and anyone who met him remembered him. “He never complained and therefore was happy in any situation,� White said. “Austin definitely remembered everyone he met. It always seemed like the first time he met someone, he somehow always knew a mutual friend. He was capable of making anyone smile whether it be by telling an inappropriate joke
For information, call 845-0569
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Austin Fannin loved playing the guitar. The senior recreation, park and tourism sciences major also had a talent for making people laugh. or his explanation after spilling a drink in your recently cleaned house.� Friends remembered Fannin’s respect for others’ opinions as one of his greatest qualities. “He was stubborn and held his convictions close to heart, but he respected anyone’s opinions even when he strongly disagreed. He always genuinely wanted to understand the opposing point of view,� White said. “He was a great friend, and he possessed a heart bigger than most.�
Cam Fannin, Austin’s father, said his son was an honor student in high school and a scholarship recipient at A&M. He was a leader at Monterrey High School in Lubbock. “Austin started playing guitar in the seventh grade and had a great collection of guitars. He played in his room all the time and my room was right next to his so I had the privilege of getting concerts almost every night,� Cam said. “I really did love the kid. ... It was impossible not to love him.�
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2011-2012 Texas A&M Campus Directory Listings of departments, administrators, faculty, staff, students, and other information about A&M, plus yellow pages.
closer than the library’s main steps. Surrounding buildings were also evacuated and closed, including the Student Computing Services building, Cushing Memorial Library and the Evans Library Annex. After police secured the area, federal agents from the Houston Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives arrived with bomb-sniffing dogs to search the building. UPD reported that the bomb threat was determined to be a hoax. “I think we did a great job in the fact that we are able to successfully and safely get everyone out of a large facility, secure it and utilize our resources to have such a large facility swept for bombs with the bomb-sniffing dogs,” said Sgt. Allan Baron, with UPD. “There were no issues. Students and employees were very cooperative.” Junior civil engineering major Marcus Trew said police made rounds through the library, communicating the urgency of the situation. “They had cops doing rounds, walking through pretty sternly saying that we all needed to get out, the library is closed,” Trew said. “I counted six or seven police or emergency personnel inside, but there were also some stationed at the door.” Steven Butcher, a student employee at Poor Yorick’s coffee shop inside Evans Library, said the evacuation did not seem extraordinary. “We just left. We actually didn’t get instructed anything,” said Butcher, a senior aerospace engineering major. “Right before we had to leave, our manager shut down all of the registers and locked up all of the money.” A&M officials periodically provided updates to Code Maroon subscribers throughout the early afternoon, sending a total of four text messages. As was the case with Friday’s Code Maroon, students said the time stamps on some of the messages were significantly earlier than the time of receipt. “We’ll be meeting to analyze what the problems were and get to the bottom of it,” said assistant vice president for Safety and Se-
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.
Runoff
S
to politics beyond this election on Dec. 13,” Yancy said. “Next spring there will be primary elections to determine each party’s nominee for the next general election in November 2012. I would be honored to Raney have the chance to serve Bryan-College Station during the interim, as legislative interim studies on important issues are underway and bills for next session are being prepared.” The March primaries will determine who runs in the Yancy November general election for the Texas Legislature. The candidates will be running for the District 14 seat again, since Fred Brown’s former term expires in December 2012. “We will file for re-election, and we will be involved in the campaign,” Raney said. “The current race is just to fill the unexpired term of Fred Brown. Regardless of the election outcome, I will be running in the spring.” “I consider this special election and interim time an important opportunity to ensure that our next state representative is fully prepared to fight for Texas A&M and the citizens of this community,” Yancy said. The two candidates have both maintained their businesses while campaigning. Yancy owns MEMdata and said his healthcare company has helped save more than 500 medical facilities. “I am an entrepreneur and small business owner who has grown my business from the ground up [during] the last 10 years,” Yancy said. “My company focuses on increasing efficiency and quality, while decreasing costs for healthcare equipment. I have saved more than 500 medical facilities nationwide tens of millions of dollars.” Raney owns the Texas Aggieland Book-
D
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
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Continued from page 1
Robert Carpenter — THE BATTALION
Police evacuate Evans Library in response to a bomb threat on Monday. A Houston bomb squad swept the area and determined it to be clean.
Code Maroon To receive Code Maroon alerts, follow @TAMUCodeMaroon on Twitter or visit codemaroon.tamu.edu to sign up for other notifications. curity Chris Meyer. “The first and last messages seemed to go through well, but there were problems with the second one especially.” Baron said he was pleased with the University’s ability to communicate with the A&M community. “I think it is a good system, but it is like anything else — you have to have [a device] in front of you and be signed up for it,” Baron said. “There definitely can be a delay in sending. The system cannot go through all of the numbers at one time; it takes time to process this.” Baron said UPD and University officials will review Monday’s action and consider the response effort’s efficiency and effectiveness. “It is really too early to tell what we need to do for the future,” Baron said. “Once we have completed our investigation and we are able to sit down and collaborate on what actually happened, we will be able to see if there are areas of improvement that are needed.”
When to vote ◗ Early voting began Monday and continues through Friday. Voting is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday. Early voting locations include Rudder Tower, the College Station Utilities Meeting and the Training Facility on Graham Road.
◗ Election Day voting will be from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Dec. 13 in various locations around Bryan and College Station. Visit Brazosvotes.org for polling locations by precinct. store in College Station and has been in business for 42 years. He said he plans to continue operating his business after being elected. “Of course, everybody [has to make adjustments to their daily operations],” Raney said. “Those are things we will spend more time working on after the election. I will have to make some changes in how I operate, but it isn’t anything different in operating my business. Probably just some personnel additions.” Yancy said he wants to put his entrepreneurial experience to use in the legislature, and said that he is confident in his ability to balance his business while serving the community. “I want to put my expertise to work saving Texans’ tax dollars in Austin and making sure important priorities like education, remain properly funded,” Yancy said. “My business has grown to 18 employees and can run smoothly under my supervision and that of my wife and partner, Kristi, allowing me time to focus on the legislative issues at hand and the needs of this community.” Raney said he has the business experience necessary to represent the people of BryanCollege Station in the capital. “I have been on the Texas Retailers Association, and been in Austin quite a bit, working on issues as a private citizen,” Raney said. “I have some experience in that regard.”
11am-4pm Monday thru Thursday
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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 $300/mo. +1/2bills, on bus route. 2/2 condo at Fox-Run 1bdrm available. Call 936-581-4504. $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. 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. 2bd/1ba apartment, 800sq.ft. New appliances, carpeting and tile. W/D. Bus route. $600/mo. +$300 deposit. 210-391-4106. 2bd/1ba, Semester and year leases available. Walk to campus. Pets ok. Starting at $475/mo. 979-574-4036. 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. BRAND NEW HOUSE! 5bd/4ba, walking and biking distance from A&M, on shuttle. Available May or July move-in 2012. Don’t Miss! $2400/mo. (979)229-4222. College Station sublet 1bd/1ba in 4/4 apartment. The Woodlands of College Station, $595/mo., includes all utilities/amenities available 12/15/11-7/3/12. 361-290-2030. CS nice 4/2/2 vents W/D partially furnished, water paid, 6 mo. lease, available January, $1350. 817-559-2932.
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FOR RENT
FOR RENT
Free ethernet and extended cable. Great prices. aggieapartments.com 979-693-1906. 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. Room for rent. Fraternity Row townhouse, $500/mo. all inclusive, on bus route 34. 281-961-9959. 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 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. Upstairs 2bd/1.5ba off Holleman. W/D included, new flooring throughout, non-smoking. $700/mo. 979-220-0468.
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.
HELP WANTED
MUSIC
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. 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. Now hiring field representatives for political campaign. Earn money for Christmas Break. Apply to amy.rister@bob-yancy.com 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. 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.
MOTORCYCLE Harley Sportster. Fully Customized front to back, custom paint, low mileage, perfect condition! A real looker! 979-778-2855.
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
NEEDED Driver Needed for truck! Free trip to Southern California, expenses paid to California and plane ticket back to Texas. Call 210-401-1960.
PETS Chinese Emperial ShihTzu Teacups. $350-$500. Expecting Maltipoos. 979-324-2866. linda_d_54@yahoo.com
ROOMMATES 2 roommates needed. $375/month. 4bd/3ba house near Graham Rd in CS. Grad and upperclassmen preferred. Call John 979-661-0848. Bryan, 10 miles to campus. Wifi, laundry, utilities paid. Nonsmoker, references. $450/mo. knixie@aol.com 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.
the battalion Classified Advertising • Easy • Affordable • Effective For information, call 845-0569
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 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
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
Cleaning commercial buildings at night, M-F. Call 979-823-5031 for appointment.
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COACHES WANTED! We need enthusiastic, positive, motivational volunteer coaches for YOUTH BASKETBALL. Season begins early 01/2012! Email dhudspeth@cstx.gov call 764-3424.
puzzle answers can be found online at www.thebatt.com
AggieNetwork.com BRYAN: 3 BEDROOM HOMES, W/D CONN, WALK-IN CLOSETS, PETS WELCOME, ALL APPL, WOOD FLOORING, FENCED YARD, PETS OK! $775-$895/ mo 979.764.RENT(7368) www.twincityproperties.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
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.
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voices
page 9 tuesday 12.6.2011
thebattalion
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
MAILCALL From Anne Burrough, Class of 1998. As a devoted former student who is married to an even more devoted former student and living in College Station, I am disgusted by the recent events at my beloved school. Whether or not we as Aggies agree with the decision to fire Mike Sherman, we can all agree that the manner in which it was handled was inept and disgraceful. It makes our institution, which prides itself on its high moral standard, look classless. Worse than that, it showed a complete lack of respect to a human being who, in response to all of this, has continued to support the very institution which treated him so poorly. The administration should be held to a higher standard than the students, who are asked not to lie, cheat or steal or tolerate those who do. So as students and former students, let’s not tolerate this dishonorable behavior. I am asking Dr. R. Bowen Loftin to issue a public apology to Mike Sherman on behalf of the school. I hope that many others will demand the same of him. I hope that as a group we can let our University know that we will not allow its administration to destroy the ideals which have set Texas A&M apart for decades.
From Jackie Zander, Class of 1983. Three years ago I posed the question: What is an Aggie today? Some less-than-exemplary Aggies had accosted my daughter and an older gentleman at an OU game. I was reassured by some responses and dismayed by others. Thursday evening, I got a clear answer to that question. I watched as honor, loyalty and integrity became simply words in
the dictionary. The values that this University has stood for and proclaimed to all the world were trampled beneath a large green dollar sign. Common courtesy is no longer common, but I thought professionalism would prevail. Sadly that too went by the wayside in a search for a different win-loss record. Early in my time at A&M, I learned the Aggie honor code: Aggies do not lie, cheat or steal or tolerate those who do. I considered that an excellent code for all of life. On Thursday night I saw all three flagrantly trampled in search of the ephemeral winning team. Dr. Loftin, when you sat on a contract waiting to see if you really wanted to be a good faith partner to it, you lied to the team, the coach and the public who knew Mike Sherman had signed a new contract. When you denied Coach Sherman the opportunity to tell the team and provide closure for all of them, you cheated. When you leaked it to the media before Sherman was told, you stole from him the opportunity to tell his family. One hundred years ago you would have been the duelist who turned early and shot his opponent in the back. In all of these decisions, did you ever consider the players? Those young men who go out each week and give the best they have to win. Their best is never good enough, yet you expect all the current and former students to support YOU. The Aggie honor code and everything it stood for is defaced. Integrity, honor and respect: Dr. Loftin, of these you have none.
Loftin issues statement on Coach Sherman University President R. Bowen Loftin released a statement via e-mail and Facebook on Monday regarding the firing of former A&M head football coach Mike Sherman. His statement reads: Many of you have expressed disdain about the manner Loftin in which head football coach Mike Sherman was dismissed last week. I share in your concerns. Let me assure you that our intention was for Coach Sherman to be informed of his dismissal in a face-to-face meeting last Friday morning. However, when this confidential information was leaked to a media outlet late Thursday afternoon, I instructed Athletic Director Bill Byrne to contact Coach Sherman as soon as possible, via cell phone because he was out of town. We wanted Coach Sherman to hear the news from a Texas A&M official first and not from a media report. Like you, I am angry that the mishandling of sensitive information forced us to react in this manner, and I am disappointed in this breach of trust. This is a reminder that in this age of instantaneous media, words have consequences and affect lives. All employees, and especially one who has done so much to instill our Aggie values into the lives of our student-athletes and larger student body, deserve better. I have the utmost respect for Coach Sherman, and appreciate the many contributions that he has made to Texas A&M. Texas A&M Information Services
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