Aggie Traditions

ITINERARY Travel Dining Activities End

Sunday AM/Lunch: - Bike Tour A&M University Dine at Home th Start: Home - Traditions Dorms, 19 , Day 1 - DG Time College Station End: TAMU PM: - Reflections Local Favorites Integrity Lights out at: 11:30 pm

Monday Start: TAMU AM: Continental - Climbing

th - Traditions (Yell) A&M University 20 , Day 2 End: Lunch: Activity - DG Time/Reflections Dorms, Reimer’s Ranch Site - Campfire College Station - Crystal Ball Leadership *Return to CS* PM: TBD Lights out at: 12:00 am

Tuesday Start: TAMU - Hiking Galveston AM: Continental st - Camp Setup Island 21 , Day 3 Stop 1: - DG Time State Park, Huntsville State Lunch: Activity - Reflections Galveston, TX Park Site - Campfire Excellence - Crystal Ball End: PM: Beach Galveston Lights out at: 11:30 pm

Wednesday - Beach Day Galveston AM: Beach nd - DG Time Island 22 , Day 4 Day in Galveston - Reflections State Park, Lunch: Beach - Campfire Galveston, TX - Crystal Ball Respect PM: Beach Lights out at: 11:30 pm

Thursday AM: Beach - Beach Day A&M University

rd - Beach Clean Up Dorms, 23 , Day 5 Start: Lunch: Activity - Skit Competition College Station Galveston Site - Crystal Ball

Selfless End: TAMU PM: Local Service Favorites Lights out at: 11:30 pm

Friday - Low Ropes A&M University AM: Continental th Start: TAMU - Challenge Works Dorms, 24 , Day 6 - Traditions College Station End: Lunch: TBD - Scavenger Hunt Challenge - DG / Reflection Loyalty Works PM: Spence Park Lights out at: 11:30 pm

Saturday AM: Continental th Start: TAMU - Final Farewells Home till 25 , Day 7 - Checkout August End: Home Lunch/PM: Home

Welcome!

Venture: BASE CAMP is different from most trips you’ve had. We are here: • to learn new adventure skills, • to work together as a team, • to build relationships • to prepare for transitioning to AGGIELAND, AND • to have an AWESOME time.

Here, you will have opportunities to succeed and learn new skills: - to communicate effectively and to resolve conflict. - to think critically while working together in a close, diverse group of people. And Have FUN!

Aggie Venture Camps Behavior Agreement

All student staff and campers are expected to abide by University policies and regulations as dictated by Texas A&M University Student Rules (http://student-rules.tamu.edu/) and all federal, state and local laws. In addition, campers are expected to abide by the policies that govern the various sites visited while participating in Venture Camp, and all instructions presented by University staff members and Venture Camp Mentors, whether written or verbal.

As Aggies, it is imperative that we hold ourselves to a higher standard. Behavior expectations for Venture Camp align themselves with the mission and values of the University. As a participant in Venture Camp, I agree to display behaviors congruent with the Texas A&M Student Rules, and understand that if I violate this behavioral expectation, I may be immediately removed from Venture Camp at my own cost.

Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited during camp and on the Texas A&M Campus. Any student found in possession of alcohol or drugs will be subject to accountability processes and possibly disciplinary actions according to Texas A&M University Student Rules. In addition to being removed from camp, alleged policy and behavioral violations may be reported to the Texas A&M University Student Conduct Office and/or local law enforcement. I understand that this is a binding agreement and that I have read it and understand it and am signing it voluntarily.

I represent that I have read and understand the foregoing statement and am competent to execute this agreement.

Sign and Date below, each participant

Safety Guidelines Safety in the wilderness is a very big deal. We are traveling in a place that is very far from a hospital. A small cut on your foot can result a big problem! So, our rules for safety are pretty strict, and we take them seriously. We are responsible for your safety and we don’t want some stupid little thing to ruin your course. Here they are:

Non-Negotiables:

• RESPECT – Treat peers and leaders with respect and address them by their names or acceptable nicknames. • No illegal drug use. • No underage drinking. • No transporting alcohol in University vehicles. • No tobacco use in vehicles or during lectures and activities. • Always wear seatbelts in the van. • No bare feet unless in the shower or tents. • Everyone contributes during group work time. • No whining. Be solution-oriented to all the problems the group encounters. • Take care of group and issued gear. • One of the trip leaders needs to know where you are all at all times. • Obey all laws including state and federal statues and these rules. • Do not handle or harm wildlife or plant life. Take only pictures; leave only footprints. • Maintain appropriate, inclusive interpersonal relationships with everyone on the course. • Be respectful of other park visitors. • Do not climb the rocks we encounter, unless instructed otherwise.

There may be others that your instructors will tell you as the situations arise.

Texas A&M University Purpose Statement: To develop leaders of character dedicated to serving the greater good.

Our purpose statement carries with it the responsibility, the traditions and the forward thinking of Texas A&M University exemplified by all who are associated with the university — its faculty and staff, and its current and former students. This can be defined by six core values.

Excellence - Set the bar. “Excellence stems from a great sense of pride in who we are and what we believe in.” - Former Texas A&M President Dr. Robert Gates

“There's an optimism, a faith in the future and an attitude that propels Aggies to take on the impossible - look at Red/White/Blue-Out.” - Texas A&M Leadership

“We could do just about anything if we tried hard enough.” - Former Student

Integrity - Character is destiny. “The Aggie Code of Honor which Aggies recite by heart: 'Aggies do not lie, cheat or steal nor tolerate those that do' shows what goes to the heart of being an Aggie.” - Texas A&M Leadership

“Integrity was the core value that A&M gave me more of than any other. It helped me succeed in my career because my fellow professionals, clients and friends knew that they could rely on me and my word.” - Former Student

Leadership - Follow me. “If you don't want to be a leader of character, don't come here.” - Former Corps Commandant LTG John Van Alstyne

“The spirit of leadership is instilled in every student - whether they go on to lead in the boardroom or in the backyard - they have the values, the confidence and the experience to lead change in their world.” - Texas A&M Leadership

Loyalty - Acceptance forever. “Through unity, strength.” - Texas A&M University Corps of Cadets Motto

“I'm proud to be a part of a family that will always be there for me that's 48,000 members strong...and that's not counting all those that came before or will come after.” - Current Texas A&M Student

“Loyalty and respect for tradition is about a sense of belonging to something greater than yourself. You're a part of a history of traditions...of a larger community.” - Former Executive Vice President and Provost Dr. David Prior

Respect - We are the Aggies, the Aggies are we. “A&M students aren't just joining a university, they're joining a lifelong family that understands the value of loyalty, camaraderie, and unconditional support.” - Texas A&M Leadership

“A&M students embody a refreshing spirit: born of the values of friendliness, caring, support, confidence and a can-do attitude.” - Former Student

Selfless Service - How can I be of service? “If I had to tell you about Aggie values in one sentence I would simply ask the question: How can I be of service?” - Current Texas A&M Student

“A&M encourages volunteerism, encourages being one of a thousand points of light, helping others... and it comes naturally to Aggies.” - Former U.S. President George Bush

https://www.tamu.edu/about/coreValues.html

What is important to you as a group as you live together over the next weeks? In the space below, write down the things your group thinks are important standards to adopt as a community.

Aggie Code of Honor “An Aggie does not lie, cheat or steal or tolerate those who do.” The Aggie Code of Honor functions as a symbol to all Aggies, promoting understanding and loyalty to truth and confidence in each other.

We agree to abide by the above standards.

Signed:

Who’s our Crew?

MAJOR / CONTACT INFO TO SHARE NAME DEPARTMENT Mentors: Recreation Park Brenden Pakebusch Tourism Sciences [email protected]

Courtney Carroll Communication [email protected] Staff: [email protected] Sarah Schneider Recreational Sports 979/845-3093 [email protected] Jason Kurten Recreational Sports 979/862-1999 [email protected] Sarah Edwards Student Activities 979/845-1449 cyoung@stuact/tamu.edu Chase Young Student Activities 979/862-2949

Inaugural Campers: Austin Akerley Sarah Hollenbeck Jack Puckett Everett Bullock Sarah Johnson Zac Richards Hayden Burnett Kelly Karstadt Juliette Sokol Camille Camarata Macy Liles Dakota Stark Holly Dolezalik Jenna Lusk Chris Stupka Harleigh Earhart Reagan Lynch Jordy Velazquez Lindsey Farrell Will McElreath Reilee Williams Jonathan Filip Two Nguyen Rachel Wilson Tesla Garcia Idelia Perez Brit Winchell Daniel Gerthe Martha Priestley Jasmine Zenn

Hands Washed? Journal Reading Cooks, What’s for Dinner? Ownerships and Appreciations

Quote “Shoutouts” and “ Poundouts” Moment of Silence Feedback for the Leader

Pass the Pulse Mentor Time Peace, Love, and Chow Crystal Ball

Wake up from the LOD Gather Up for morning updates Job time Prep breakfast Fill Water bottles Gather supplies for Morning Block Chow Circle Breakfast and Clean Up Morning Block Lunch, Prep, eat, clean up Afternoon Block Job time Prep dinner Fill water bottles Write Journal Gather supplies for Evening Block, Campfire Chow Circle Dinner and Clean Up Evening Block Campfire Bed time: Lights Out

This is a story about four people named Everybody, Somebody, Anybody, and Nobody. There was an important job to be done, and Everybody was asked to do it. Everybody was sure Somebody would do it. Anybody could have done it, but Nobody did it. Somebody got angry about that because it was Everybody’s job. Everybody thought Anybody could do it but Nobody realized that Somebody wouldn’t do it.

It ended up that Everybody blamed Somebody when Nobody did what Anybody could have done.

Know Your Job

Group Work Tasks: Before we break out for PERSONAL TIME, we will need to complete some chores and tasks for the benefit of the group. We will work hard to play hard. To facilitate an equitable sharing of the duties, we will rotate through group work jobs. Listed here are the highlights of each job. Use the descriptions and help from your peers who have done the job in previous days to complete the tasks of your job in an efficient manner. The faster the work is done the sooner we can chill’ax. There are 25 jobs each day, so 5 people will have the day off each day: They can help others and/or use time for personal needs.

Leader of the Day (L.O.D.) Motivate Team. Communicate between Team and instructors. Manage crew during tasks and transitions. Wake up group in the morning. Facilitate decision-making and organizing group efforts. Lead time-management efforts: ensure timely departures and arrivals, especially for scheduled meetings, speakers, and events. Help all team members with group work jobs. Get the group into the vehicle on time.

Executive Officer Assist L.O.D. Assist the team to achieve daily activities. Manage transitions to facilitate timeliness. Fill in where needed.

Big Eye Look out for the big picture safety of group You will keep an eye out for any big things that have potential to jeopardize the safety of part or all of the group, bring any concerns to mentor or other staff.

Little Eye Look out for the little picture safety of group You will keep an eye out for any little things that have potential to become big things and then jeopardize the safety of part or all of the group in the future, bring any concerns to mentor or other staff.

Hunter Thompson Document our progress and compose nightly journal entry. Write up a quality account of our day, to be read at Campfire. Record fun or memorable quotes and stories. Use the Journal to guide the group through the components of Campfire. Keep the Journal and pen/pencil: - to be delivered to the next Hunter Thompson - to be referenced for jobs or other info

Father Time The keeper of the clock You are in charge of making sure that we are staying on a strict schedule. You will work with the leader of the day to make sure we move swiftly and are taking care of business.

LNT Ninja Responsible for making sure everyone is Leaving No Trace! Remind group of Seven Principle of LNT: Plan Ahead and Prepare, Minimize Campfire Impact, Camp and Hike on Durable Surfaces, Dispose of Waste Properly, Respect Others, Respect Wildlife, Leave What You Find

Trash Samurai Responsible for collecting and disposing of trash properly. Conduct Food/Camp sweep as we leave a site and at night. Last person to depart to make sure all is taken. Make sure all food is in bear hang or critter-proofed before Evening Meeting.

Water Boy Manage our water supply Take and refill all 5-gal water jugs. Manage fulls and empties in camp. Monitor water usage to ensure maintain needed amount. Make sure all personal water bottles are full before we leave camp. Lead crew to fill pots or water bottles when needed. ***ALL DAY: Remind people to drink water!!!

Nurse Betty Mange our health and wellness Remind people to use sunscreen and appropriate protection for activities. Ensure First Aid kits are always with group. Check-in with fellow students and staff to make sure everyone’s needs are being met.

HyGene Contribute to self-care and preventative health Provide the basic pharmacy items for people to take of personal needs. Minor Meds keeper. Facilitate hand-washing before meals/Chow Circle. Provide Hand Sanitizer when water and soap not available.

Top Chefs & Iron Chefs – 2 people each per meal Prepare and deliver delicious and nutritious meals: 2 teams of 2 Teams of 2 cooks will run 2 food prep kitchens: Iron Chef Kitchen and Top Chef Kitchen Set up and take down kitchen. Prepare breakfast, lunch, or dinner depending on the rotation. Clean any pots you burn.

Scrubby – 3 people per meal Protect our grub and group cooking instruments Set up dishwashing station for individuals to clean their personal dishes. Clean pots, lids, big spoon, and other dishes used by cooks. Wipe out stoves and kitchen tubs to prevent food buildup. Help clean up kitchen after dinner and critter proof camp. ***A cook who burns a pot cleans his/her own pot!***

Personal Job Chart

JOB

SUNDAY

(Same as Saturday)

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

(Same as Sunday)

Have a Problem? Here are a few tools to use to help address and resolve the natural conflict that arises in a group of people. Remember, it’s totally natural to get upset, frustrated and attached.

Rules of squashing an issue: 1. Follow the non-negotiables and group contract. 2. Take a timeout if you need to get a grip on anger or high heat emotions. 3. Don’t abandon an issue – confront and complete. 4. Leave aggressive and judging language and behavior elsewhere. 5. Come ready to hear as well as be heard. 6. Follow the tools in order, don’t backtrack: Stay forward-facing. Additionally, once you’ve said your peace in your turn, don’t interrupt or return to tell MORE of your side. Forward movement… 7. Offer real solutions. 8. When the issue is resolved and a plan accepted, COMMIT and leave any hard feelings behind. THE ISSUE IS SQUASHED. Pound it out.

In a SUPER-SIMPLE situation where ONE person has a BASIC easily-accomplished request of another group member or the group as a whole: Complaint State – without judgment – what is causing you conflict. What is your issue? Be clear, respectful, concise, and straightforward. Don’t be so passive that people don’t understand what is bothering you. And don’t be so aggressive that people are too offended to hear you out. “Just the facts, Ma’am.” Need How is the action (of the complaint) affecting YOU: what are you not getting that you need? Do you have a basic need to FUN, FREEDOM, POWER, or LOVE & BELONGING that limited by this situation? This isn’t the request – that comes next – so make sure you are telling the person or group something about yourself, not attacking the complaintee. Request Solution-oriented and considerate requests work best. Offer an option that is palatable to all parties. Be realistic and reasonable. You want to give the same kind of opportunity you would want someone to give you if the roles were reversed. Also, try to make it measurable so both of you can see if there is improvement over time.

In a more complicated or TYPICAL situation, there is likely two (or more) SIDES TO THE STORY. In this case, you can create a space for both sides to be heard, points acknowledged, and shared solution instituted. In this event, each person (the complainer and the complaintee) take turns completing the steps, giving each person the opportunity to develop some empathy for the other side:

What’s up? State – without judgment – what is causing you conflict. What is your issue? Be clear, respectful, concise, and straightforward. Be ASSERTIVE – Neither aggressive nor passive communication encourages resolution or respect. Own Up? Claim whatever contribution you have made towards this situation coming to this point. Because, really, is it ever truly one-sided? By claiming your part in the issue, you give the other person/group permission and freedom to acknowledge their part in the issue, too. Everybody wins here. What’s Since we are all being solution-oriented adults, bring a suggestion or request about how the issue can be Next? avoided in the future. Be reasonable and realistic: You will be spending a lot of time in close proximity to this person/group for an extended time. Let’s not ask for the impossible or improbable – we want to find a lasting solution here.

LEAVE NO TRACE (LNT) Outdoor Ethics Practices will vary from area to area

The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics The member-driven Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics teaches people of all ages how to enjoy the outdoors responsibly, and is the most widely accepted outdoor ethics program used on public lands. Through relevant and targeted education, research and outreach, the Center ensures the long-term health of our natural world. In its simplest form, Leave No Trace is about making good decisions to protect the world around you - the world we all enjoy. Do your part to pass our nation’s heritage of outdoor recreation to future generations by joining us. OUR VISION To sustain healthy, vibrant natural lands for all people to enjoy, now and into the future. Every person who ventures outside puts Leave No Trace practices into action.

SEVEN PRINCIPLES Plan ahead and prepare ● Know the local regulations and special concerns for the area ● Prepare for extreme weather, hazards and emergencies. ● Repackage food to minimize waste.

Travel and camp on durable surfaces ● Durable surfaces include established trails and campsites, rock, gravel, dry grasses and snow. ● Protect riparian areas by camping at least 200 feet from lakes and streams. ● Good campsites are found, not made. Altering a site is not necessary In popular areas: In pristine area: o Concentrate use on existing o Disperse use to prevent the trails and campsites. creation of campsites and o Walk single file in the middle trails. of a trail, even if vegetation is o Avoid places where impacts absent. are just beginning.

Dispose of waste properly ● Pack it in, pack it out. Inspect your campsite and rest area for trash or spilled foods. Pack out all trash, leftover food, and litter. ● Deposit solid human waste in catholes dug 6 to 8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water, camp, and trails. Cover and disguise the cathole when finished. ● Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products. ● To wash yourself or dishes, carry water 200 feet away from streams or lakes and use small amounts of biodegradable soap. Scatter strained dishwater.

Leave what you find ● Preserve the past: observe, but do not touch, cultural or historical structures and artifacts. ● Leave rocks, plants and other natural objects as you find them. ● Do not build structures, furniture, or dig trenches.

Minimize campfire impact ● Use established fire rings, fire pans, or mound fires. ● Keep fires small; use sticks from the ground that can be broken by hand. ● Burn all wood to ash, put out campfires completely, then scatter cool ashes.

Respect Wildlife ● Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not follow or approach them. ● Never feed animals. Feeding wildlife damages their health, alters natural behaviors, exposing them to predators and other dangers. ● Protect wildlife and your food by storing rations and trash securely. ● Avoid wildlife during sensitive times: mating, nesting, raising young, or winter.

Be considerate of other visitors ● Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience. ● Be courteous. Yield to other users on the trail. ● Take breaks and camp away from trails and other visitors. ● Let nature’s sound prevail. Avoid loud voices and noises.

https://lnt.org/

Some Yummy Quotes Whatever befalls the earth befalls the sons of the earth. Watch your thoughts; they become words. Man did not weave the web of life; he is merely a Watch your words; they become actions. strand in it. Whatever he does to the web, he does to Watch your actions; they become habits. himself. Watch your habits; they become character. -Chief Seattle Watch your character; it becomes your destiny. - The Honorable Frank Outlaw Let us realize that what happens to us is largely outside our control, but the way we choose to react to it is Lives based on having are less free than lives based on inside our control. either doing or being. - Author Unknown - William James

Be brave enough to live life creatively. The creative A rattlesnake, if cornered, will become so angry it place is where no one has ever been. You have to leave will bite itself. That is exactly what harboring hate the city of your comfort and go into the wilderness of and resentment against others is – a biting of your intuition. You can’t get there by bus, only by oneself. We think that we are harming others in hard work and risk and by not quite knowing what holding these spites and hates, but the deeper harm is you’re doing. What you’ll discover will be to ourselves. wonderful. What you’ll discover will be yourself. - E. Stanley Jones -Alan Alda at his daughter’s college graduation Grandma said when you come on something good, Imagination is more important than knowledge. the first thing you do is share it with whoever you can - Albert Einstein find, that way, the good spreads out where no telling it will go. We should not pretend to understand the world only - Forrest Carter, The Education of Little Tree by intellect; we apprehend it just as much by feeling. Therefore the judgment of the intellect is, at best, only Your disability is your opportunity. half of truth, and must, if ti be honest, also come to an - Kurt Hahn understanding of its inadequacy. - Carl Jung He knows not his own strength who hath not met adversity. Remember, no one can make you feel inferior without - Samuel Johnson your consent. - Eleanor Roosevelt A ship in the harbor is safe, but that is not what ships were built for. Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all. - William Shedd - Helen Keller

Life should be lived like a cavalry charge, not like a The spirit and vigor of our people are the chief glory nudist crossing a barbed wire fence. of the republic. Yet even as we have neglected our - Anonymous natural resources, so have we been thoughtless of life and health. Too long have we overlooked that In Nature, there are neither rewards nor grandest of our resources, human life. punishments. There are consequences. - Conservation Conference 1908 - R.G. Ingersoll Conservationists believed in the regulated The outgrowth of conservation, the inevitable result, exploitation of nature, or “right use,” while is national efficiency. preservationists argued for the protection of nature - Gifford Pinchot for its own sake. - Benjamin Kline, PhD., First Along the River Awakening from the stupefying effects of the vice of over-industry and the deadly apathy of luxury, they Only when people feel less hopeless will they press are trying as best they can to mix and enrich their their leaders to make the solutions available. own little ongoings with those of Nature, and to get - Dick Thompson rid of rust and disease. - John Muir, Our National Parks (1901) Everything is connected to everything else. Everything must go somewhere. Nature knows best. The aim of education is to impel people into value- There is no such thing as a free lunch. forming experiences, to ensure the survival of these - Bobby Commoner qualities: an enterprising curiosity; an undefeatable spirit; tenacity in pursuit; readiness for sensible self- It is a good to have an end to journey towards, but it denial; and above all, compassion. is the journey that matters in the end. Kurt Hahn, founder of Outward Bound - Ursula le Guin

Happiness is a butterfly, which, when pursued is I hate quotations. Tell me what you know. always just beyond your grasp, - R.W. Emerson but which, if you sit down quietly, may alight upon you. We have met the enemy and he is us. - Nathaniel Hawthorne - Pogo

If you could take only one more picture for the rest of this course, what picture would you take? Where would you fit into the picture? What do you see? hear? smell? taste? feel?

Knots & Rocks

Tying a Figure Eight Follow Though:

Belay commands:

Climber: “On Belay?”

Belayer: “Belay On”

Climber: “Ready to Climb.”

Belayer: “Climb On.”

How to Belay using the P.L.U.S Method:

***Remember that when you are belaying, you are holding someone’s life in your hands...literally. An inattentive or incapable belayer is one of the biggest dangers in climbing. As a belayer, take your job seriously and do it well and your and your partner’s climbing time will be much more enjoyable.***

CHECK YOUR SETUP: 1. Three items thru carabiner: rope, ATC, belay loop 2. Carabiner is LOCKED 3. Rope is only thru one slot on belay device

PULL LOCK UNDER SLIDE

Both hands used to PULL slack Carabiner is LOCKED!

There is always a brake hand on the rope!

Tides and Surf

The Ocean's Tides Explained [(c) 2015 MoonConnection.com. All Rights Reserved.] The alternating pattern of rising and falling sea level with respect to land is what we know as the tides. What causes this "motion of the ocean"? In one word, gravity. Specifically, the gravitational forces of the Sun and Moon.

The key to understanding how the tides work is understanding the relationship between the motion of our planet and the Moon and Sun. As the Earth spins on its own axis, ocean water is kept at equal levels around the planet by the Earth's gravity pulling inward and centrifugal force pushing outward.

However, the Moon's gravitational forces are strong enough to disrupt this balance by accelerating the water towards the Moon. This causes the water to 'bulge.' As the Moon orbits our planet and as the Earth rotates, the bulge also moves. The areas of the Earth where the bulging occurs experience high tide, and the other areas are subject to a low tide.

Water on the opposite side of Earth facing away from the Moon also bulges outward (high tide), but for a different and interesting reason: in reality, the Moon and the Earth revolve together around a common gravitational center between them, or center of mass. Here's a rough but helpful analogy: picture yourself swinging a heavy object attached to a rope around your body as you rotate. You have to lean back to compensate, which puts the center of mass between you and the object. With the Earth-Moon system, gravity is like a rope that pulls or keeps the two bodies together, and centrifugal force is what keeps them apart. Because the centrifugal force is greater than the Moon's gravitational pull, ocean water on the opposite side of the Earth bulges outward.

The same forces are at play as the Earth revolves around the Sun. The Sun's gravity pulls ocean water toward the Sun, but at the same time, the centrifugal force of the combined Earth-Sun revolution causes water on the opposite side of Earth to bulge away from the Sun. However, the effect is smaller than the Moon, even given the greater mass of the Sun (greater mass means greater gravitational force). Why? Simply because The Sun is so far away — over 380 times farther away from the Earth than the Moon.

Because the tides are influenced by both the Moon and the Sun, it's easy to see that when the Sun lines up with the Moon and the Earth, as during a New Moon or Full Moon (a configuration also called "syzygy"), the tidal effect is increased. These are known as spring tides, named not for the season, but for the fact that the water "springs" higher than normal.

On the other hand, if the Sun and the Moon are 90 degrees apart in relation to an observer on Earth as during the First Quarter Moon or Third Quarter Moon (sometimes called half moons), then high tides are not as high as they normally would be. This is because despite its greater distance, the Sun's mass allows it to exert enough gravitational force on the oceans that it can negate some of the effects of the Moon's pull. This phenomenon of lower high tides is called a neap tide.

The height of the tides can also vary during the course of a month because the Moon is not always the same distance from the Earth. As the Moon's orbit brings it in closer proximity to our planet (closest distance within a moon cycle is called perigee), its gravitational forces can increase by almost 50%, and this stronger force leads to high tides. Likewise, when the Moon is farther away from the Earth (furthest distance is called apogee), the tides are not as spectacular.

Tides most commonly occur twice a day (diurnal). Tides can also occur as two high waters and two low waters each day (semi-diurnal). However, these periods do not happen at the same time each day. This is because the Moon takes slightly longer than 24 hours to line up again exactly with the same point on the Earth - about 50 minutes more. Therefore, the timing of high tides is staggered throughout the course of a month, with each tide commencing approximately 24 hours and 50 minutes later than the one before it.

There are many factors involved in predicting the tides. In addition to the motion of the Moon and Sun described above, timing of the tides are also affected by the Moon's declination (angular height above the equator), local geography of the coastline, topography of the ocean floor, and depth of the water, among other considerations. Thus, the tides can't be perfectly predicted solely by astronomical calculations that track the Sun and Moon. For greatest accuracy, tide prediction tables always integrate data from actual observation, often over a period of many years. http://www.moonconnection.com/tides.phtml 7/16/2015 25

Audubon Texas Coastal Conservation http://tx.audubon.org/coastal-stewardship-program 7/16/2015 Texas has one of the most bio-diverse, yet threatened coastlines in the nation. Stretching over 600 miles, much of the Texas coast is suffering from severe erosion, lack of freshwater inflows, and pollution. This rich eco-region is the wintering grounds and stop over sites for over 98% of the long-distance migratory bird species in North America. The choices you make for water conservation make a huge difference for the quality of the Texas coast. Join Audubon this year in celebrating the 90th anniversary of our coastal conservation program. We need your support - give to this critical program today! In 1923, Audubon established a system of island sanctuaries along the Texas Coast. These island sanctuaries are home to twenty-plus species of colonial waterbirds, several of which are considered endangered or threatened. The majority of waterbirds that nest along the Coast nest on an Audubon owned or leased island. Our coastal sanctuaries host the largest Reddish Egret and Roseate Spoonbill colonies in the world. [Click here to read about Roseate Spoonbills, Reddish Egrets, and the other colonial waterbirds that make their home along the Texas Coast. (http://tx.audubon.org/colonial-waterbirds) ]

In partnership with the Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program and Houston Audubon Society, Audubon wardens manage these islands, patrolling and censusing bird populations by boat during nesting season, controlling fire ants, planting shrubs and trees, and monitoring predator activity and erosion. In addition to managing the islands, wardens communicate with local media, organize volunteers, educate citizens, and work with recreational and commercial anglers. For decades this model of community-based stewardship has sustained one of the most effective bird conservation programs in the country. Audubon's coastal management program has been recognized through the Governors' Blue Ribbon Committee on Environmental Excellence. Bill Stripling Reddish Egret

Kari Howard Audubon Texas Coastal Conservation Program; state office of National Audubon Society 4702 Hwy 146 North Presentation on citizen science and our bird monitoring program Texas City, Tx 77590 409-941-9114 ext.104 Presenter will orient students to mission of Audubon as well as instruct in data recording Cell: 409-223-4777 skills used for regular monthly bird surveys at the state park. Participants will then [email protected] practice these skills at the bird observation tower which overlooks Galveston Bay and www.audubontexas.org great wetland habitats. Additionally, presenter will identify several other citizen science • Master Naturalist programs (all volunteer and bird-based) where participants can continue to practice the program since 2010 skill set they learn on the coast by getting involved back home. • Volunteered with nearly every marine 90 minute: presentation related organization 60 minute: birding at the bird tower – bayside and birding on the beach. on the island

Selfless Service, an Aggie Core Value, guides us to ask, “How can I be of service?”

TAMU ChallengeWorks Experience-based Training and Development

WHO WE ARE ChallengeWorks is a part of the Department of Health and Kinesiology at Texas A & M University. We offer unique action learning experiences under the supervision of qualified instructors trained and employed by TAMU. Programs typically take place at The Outdoor Learning Laboratory, challenge course. We also customize our programs for indoor sites at the University or at the client's work place, as well as adventure trips around the country. The ChallengeWorks program is committed to providing high quality experiential learning activities tailored to fit each group's specific goals and objectives.

WHAT IS THE CHALLENGE COURSE? The TAMU Challenge Course is a wooded area that has been developed to offer a wide variety of challenges for groups and individuals. At the Challenge Course, potential activities include games, trust-building tasks, group problem solving events on or near the ground, and high challenges 30 to 50 feet off the ground. The dynamic nature of the activities gives participants immediate feedback about their interactions. The tasks are typically sequenced to incorporate increasing levels of trust, communication, teamwork, and creative problem solving.

During follow-up discussions, facilitators help participants (1) identify successful processes and (2) compare these activities to other work place and life experiences. From this combination of action and guided reflection, participants can create a vivid learning experience.

WHAT TO WEAR Please be prepared to be outside all day. Tennis shoes are great. Socks are required - no open toed sandals, please. Layered, comfortable clothing is most appropriate for the activities on the Course, and depending on the weather, knee- length shorts or jeans can be worn. Wearing a ball cap and sunglasses would be helpful at times, although they are not required. In case of rainy weather, we can provide raincoats. Although the program may be continued indoors in the event of inclement weather, it is preferable to be outside and we hope to continue if the rain is light.

WHAT TO BRING Although water is provided we recommend you bring your own water bottle (it will be easier to keep track of). If you are prone to insect bites and/or sunburn, bring your favorite repellent and sunscreen, although we can provide this if you need it.

If you are taking any medication, bring it with you and inform us about it on the health form. Please leave your jewelry behind as it may get damaged or become a hazard during activities. The most important thing to bring is an open mind and a readiness to have fun.

PROGRAM SAFETY Although the activities at the challenge course involve physical action, the goals of the program would not be served if the activities were so strenuous as to prohibit participation. While our goal is not physical fitness, it is important to realize that some physical exertion is involved. At all times participants will be encouraged to choose their own level of participation during activities -- a key concept we call "Challenge by Choice."

Each participant is required to complete a Health Disclosure Form and a Waiver of Claims/Assumption of Risk Form prior to participation in the program. The health information will help us modify activities when appropriate. Program safety is one of our top priorities.

FOR MORE INFORMATION If you have any questions or require additional information, feel free to contact Bob Gantt, the ChallengeWorks Coordinator, by email at [email protected] or by his office phone at (979) 845-4574

Helpful Hints

Discussion Group #1

Name: Name: Phone: Phone: Email: Email: Social Media: Social Media:

Discussion Group #2 As a Hawk you tend to: As a Peacock you tend to:

Think a lot about: Results, achievements Think a lot about: Vision, dreams, aspirations Value in others: Productivity Value in others: Self-expression, creativity Enjoy: Competition, pressure, challenging Enjoy: Challenging work, stimulation, novelty, work fun Dislike: Wasting time Dislike: Being bored Have trouble dealing with: “Fuzzy Thinkers,” Have trouble dealing with: Rules and ambiguity, uncertainty authority figures Express anger: Aggressively Express anger: By getting frustrated and/or Embarrassed by: Others getting “too attacking personal” with you Embarrassed by: Being criticized for “showing Want to be appreciated for: Your off” accomplishments Want to be appreciated for: Your uniqueness, Like to be rewarded with: More authority, creativity and contribution power, control, status Like to be rewarded with: Attention, recognition, applause As a Dove you tend As an Owl you tend to: to:

Think a lot about: Other Think a lot about: Facts, details people and relationships Value in others: Good Value in others: Thoughtfulness, judgment sensitivity, caring Enjoy: Having plenty of accurate Enjoy: Collaboration, teamwork information Dislike: Conflict, tension, confrontation Dislike: Making mistakes, being wrong Have trouble dealing with: Being overlooked Have trouble dealing with: Those who want or ignored quick, simple answers Express anger: Become conciliatory and/or Express anger: Calmly, rationally upset Embarrassed by: Others’ impatience with Embarrassed by: Being challenged by thoughtful analysis assertive others Want to be appreciated for: Your high Want to be appreciated for: Your quality work participation, being of service Like to be rewarded with: More Like to be rewarded with: Acceptance, being responsibility, autonomy liked, being needed

Discussion Group #3 Write the number of points that you gained in the Goal Jumping Activity. Total Points: ______

You are going to find that your time in college at Texas A&M can be a spent a little differently than you are accustomed. You may have a plethora of commitments to schedule or you may find that you have a lot of extra time and you will want to explore new opportunities. Using the number of points that you acquired, spend a few minutes distributing those points within the categories below. Think about where you anticipate spending your time based upon what is valuable to you and what you want to accomplish within the next year. It may be a challenge to make decisions within these areas. You must use all of the points, and you cannot use more than the total points you acquired in the goal jumping activity.

Academic Success Points: 2 points: Meeting time for new friends is not one of 5 points: I want to get a 4.0 my top priorities 4 points: I want to get a 3.5 3 points: I want to get a 3.0 Financial Commitments Points: 2 points: I want to get a 2.5 5 points: I plan to have a job at least 10 hours/ wk 1 points: I want to get a 2.0 4 points: I plan to have a job between 5-10 hours/ wk 3 points: I plan to have a job between 1 – 5 hours/ wk Academic Commitments Points: 0 points: I do not plan to have a job in my first year 5 points: I am taking 18+ hours 4 points: I am taking 15+ hours Sleep Points: 3 points: I am taking 12+ hours 5 points: I want to average more than 8 hours of 2 points: I am taking less than 12 hours sleep a night 4 points: I want to average 8 hours of sleep a night Involvement Points: 3 points: I want to average 6 hours of sleep a night 5 points: I want to be an officer in a student 2 points: I want to average 4 hours of sleep a night organization 4 points: I want to join two organizations on campus Motivation & Spiritual Attainment Points: 3 points: I want to join one organization on campus I want to take time to stay connected with my family: 2 points: I want to take the time to find an 1-3 points organization that I care about for future years I want to take time to stay connected with friends from 0 points: I do not plan to be involved in a student home: 1-3 points organization I want to take time to read books for pleasure: 1-3 points Physical Health & Wellbeing Points: I want to take time for personal reflection/ “me time”: 5 points: Physically active 5-7 times per week 1-3 points 4 points: physically active 3-5 times per week I want to take time for spiritual attainment/to attend a 3 points: physically active 1-3 times per week place of worship: 1-3 points 2 points: physically active when I find time 0-10 points: Other outside commitments not listed 0 points: I do not plan to be physically active

Social Growth Points: 5 points: I want to find a great group of good friends 4 points: I am very interested in meeting and connecting with new people 3 points: I want to meet new people, but it’s not my top priority

Reflections

Reflection #1 – What is reflection?

Reflection is a crucial part of the learning process and helping us to make meaning of the world around us. Throughout our time at Base Camp 2015, we are going to ask everyone to take a few minutes to reflect from time to time. Reflection is really simple. We want to provide you with a quick model that can be followed to help you reflect on this experience.

DEAL Model D – Describe the experience objectively: What, where, who, when? E – Examine using reflection prompts: (We will be providing a few of these through the experience) A & L – Articulate Learning: What did you gain? What did you learn? Why does it matter? What should be done? How has this helped you?

Prompt #1 – What are you hoping to gain from Venture: Base Camp?

Describe:

We are actually going to return to this prompt in Reflection #5 for the E & AL.

Reflection #2 – Leadership Styles

The Aggie Core Value of Leadership is further qualified by the following:

Leadership - Follow me. • If you don't want to be a leader of character, don't come here. - Former Corps Commandant LTG John Van Alstyne • The spirit of leadership is instilled in every student - whether they go on to lead in the boardroom or in the backyard - they have the values, the confidence and the experience to lead change in their world. - Texas A&M Leadership

Describe: Describe your experience with the Bird Test Activity.

Examine: What does it mean to you to be a “leader of character”?

Articulate Learning: What are some of the ways that you feel you can go on to be a leader Texas A&M? Or in what ways can you develop your leadership style/skills?

Reflection #3 – Excellence & Time Management

The Aggie Core Value of Excellence is further qualified by the following:

Excellence - Set the bar. • Excellence stems from a great sense of pride in who we are and what we believe in. - Former Texas A&M President Dr. Robert Gates • There's an optimism, a faith in the future and an attitude that propels Aggies to take on the impossible - look at Red/White/Blue-Out. - Texas A&M Leadership • We could do just about anything if we tried hard enough. - Former Student Describe: In what ways would you like to achieve “Excellence” at Texas A&M?

Examine: What challenges do you perceive that you will face with regard to time management, involvement, and excellence in your first semester? What can you do to overcome those challenges?

Articulate Learning: Write a goal that you want to accomplish in your first semester at Texas A&M.

Reflection #4 – Respect & Loyalty

The Aggie Core Values of Respect and Loyalty are further qualified by the following:

Respect - We are the Aggies, the Aggies are we.

• A&M students aren't just joining a university, they're joining a lifelong family that understands the value of loyalty, camaraderie, and unconditional support. - Texas A&M Leadership • A&M students embody a refreshing spirit: born of the values of friendliness, caring, support, confidence and a can-do attitude. - Former Student

Loyalty - Acceptance forever.

• Through unity, strength. - Texas A&M University Corps of Cadets Motto • I'm proud to be a part of a family that will always be there for me that's 48,000 members strong...and that's not counting all those that came before or will come after. - Current Texas A&M Student • Loyalty and respect for tradition is about a sense of belonging to something greater than yourself. You're a part of a history of traditions...of a larger community. - Former Executive Vice President and Provost Dr. David Prior

Describe: What do these values mean to you?

Examine: In what ways do you need to be treated to feel respected?

Articulate Learning: How will you embody these values as you begin and throughout your journey at Texas A&M?

Reflection #5 – What did you gain from Venture: Base Camp?

Integrity - Character is destiny. • The Aggie Code of Honor which Aggies recite by heart: 'Aggies do not lie, cheat or steal nor tolerate those that do' shows what goes to the heart of being an Aggie. - Texas A&M Leadership • Integrity was the core value that A&M gave me more of than any other. It helped me succeed in my career because my fellow professionals, clients and friends knew that they could rely on me and my word. - Former Student Describe: (Refer back to your response from Reflection #1)

Examine: How did the trip compare with your original hopes and expectations? If possible give some specific examples.

Articulate Learning: Considering everything that you have experienced in the past week, on the next page write a letter to yourself that you would receive after your first semester. • What are some things that you gained from the Venture: Base Camp experience that you think will be helpful to you in your first semester? College Career? • What do you hope to achieve? • Who do you hope to be? • What do you want to remember? • What experiences do you want to have? • What would make you feel successful? • How do you hope to have grown or changed? • How will you maintain your “integrity” in staying true to yourself and what you want to accomplish in your first semester?

Daily Highs & Lows

Day 1 Highs Lows

Day 2 Highs Lows

Day 3 Highs Lows

Day 4 Highs Lows

Day 5 Highs Lows

Day 6 Highs Lows

Day 7 Highs Lows

Letter to Self

…more Letter to Self

Aggie Traditions

12th Man

On January 2, 1922, the Aggies from the Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas played the Prayin’ Colonels of Centre College, Kentucky, in the Dixie Classic. Centre College had not been scored on that year and boasted 3 All-Americans—at QB, Center, and TE—unheard of in those days. After the tough 1921 football season, the Aggies were “completely exhausted, both physically and mentally,” according to Red Thompson, a yell leader at the time. But the Ags came ready to play, and the game's first points (and the first points allowed by Centre all year) came on a safety off a muffed punt in the end zone. At half time, Coach Dana X. Bible’s Southwest Conference Champion Aggies were winning, but every player on the Aggie team except for the 11 on the field was injured. Coach Bible remembered that a sophomore football player, who had recently stepped down from football to focus on the new basketball season, was sitting in the press box helping identify players on the field. Coach Bible requested that the player, E. (Earl) King Gill ’24, come down to the field and suit up. E. King Gill went under the stands with a couple blankets and the injured team captain, Heine Weir, and put on his uniform. Earl King Gill then stood next to Coach Bible for the rest of the game, ready to play, but he was never asked to. Texas A&M went on to beat Centre College 22-14. Today, Aggies stand at all football and basketball games, from the opening kickoff “till the final gun is sounded,” symbolizing our readiness to go into the game whenever we are needed.

Aggie Ring

The Aggie Ring is a unique representation of achievement by an Aggie. Aggies take pride in earning their little piece of gold from the greatest University in the world. The Aggie Ring is unlike any other because at most other students cannot design their own class ring or order it at any time. The Aggie Ring can only be ordered when an Aggie completes 90 hours, 45 of the hours being from Texas A&M University. With very few changes made throughout the long and deep history of the ring, all Aggie rings are nearly identical, with the last change being made in 1963 when The Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas became Texas A&M University. The oldest ring is that of the Class of 1889, which featured the letters AMC entwined on the crest. Records indicate that E.C. Jonas, Class of 1894, designed the first A&M ring that included most of the same symbols still used today. In 1933, a committee was charged with defining criterion for attaining a ring, and the requirements have existed since then. Traditionally, students wear the ring with the class year facing them to signify that their time at A&M is not yet complete. During Aggie Graduation, The Association of Former Students leads a ceremony in which Aggies students turn their rings around to face the world proudly, just as the Aggie graduate will be ready to face the world.

What is the symbolism behind the Aggie Ring? The top of the ring features a shield that symbolizes the protection of the good reputation of the alma mater. There are 13 stripes in the shield that symbolize the 13 original states and Aggie’s intense

43 patriotism. The five stars found in the shield refer to the five phases of Aggie development: mind or intellect, body, spiritual attainment, emotional poise, and integrity of character. The eagle on the top of the Aggie Rind symbolizes agility and power and ability to reach great heights and ambitions. One side of the Aggie Ring holds a large star encircled with a wreath of olive leaves joined together by a ribbon near the bottom of the Ring. The large star symbolizes the seal of the State of Texas authorized by the Constitution of 1845. It is encircled with a wreath of olive leaves symbolizing achievement and desire for peace and live oak leaves symbolizing the strength to fight. The leaves are joined at the bottom by an encircling ribbon to show the necessity of joining these traits to accomplish one’s ambition to serve. The other side of the Aggie Ring contains an ancient cannon, saber, and rifle symbolize that the citizens of Texas fought for their land and our determination to defend our homeland. The saber stands for valor and confidence, and the rifle and cannon stand for preparedness and defense. On both sides, the United States and Texas Flags are crossed to symbolize the dual allegiance to nation and state.

Big Event

The Big Event is the largest one-day, student-run service project in the nation where students of Texas A&M University come together to say "thank you" to the residents of Bryan and College Station. For the past 25 years, Aggie students have participated in this annual event to show their appreciation to the surrounding community by completing service projects such as yard work, window washing, and interior/exterior painting. Although The Big Event has become the largest one-day, student-run service project in the nation, our message still remains the same – simply “thank you.”

Bonfire

The Fightin’ Texas Aggie Bonfire symbolizes the Spirit every Aggie carries in his heart for Texas A&M University. The first bonfire was built on campus in 1909 and was described by Ernest Langford as a “pile of scrap wood” reaching twelve feet tall. Bonfire remained a trash heap until 1912, when they started using axes to cut down trees to add to the heap but other materials were still used. Frank G. Anderson, previous Aggie Coach and Commandant, stated that early Bonfires and the 1920 Bonfire were made of “community trash, boxes, etc.” Students used burning Bonfire as a pep rally where speeches were made and yells were led, often outlasting the actual burning of the fire. In 1935 Aggies were so bold as to dismantle a farmer’s barn to use for logs, forcing Commandant Anderson to begin regulating Bonfire. The first “log and legal Bonfire” was twelve feet tall and burned beautifully in 1936. The first Center pole was erected in 1945 and in 1946, the first two piece Center pole allowing Bonfire to reach as high as twenty five feet. In 1955, while guarding Bonfire against people who may sabotage it, a car killed a sophomore named James Sarran when he pushed his freshman out of its path. Because of this, fish in the corps don’t thank their upperclassmen, because Mr. Sarran’s fish never got to thank him (upperclassmen will do anything for their fish). The university began implementing safety regulations as a result of this accident. From the 1950s onward, building Bonfire became more organized while each class strove to make it bigger and better than the ones before. The tallest Bonfire was built in 1969 and was about 109 feet tall 44 with a 105 foot center pole. It was about one foot shorter than Rudder Tower. Bonfire’s height was monitored by a city ordinance beginning in the 1970s after residents complained that their houses might catch on fire.

There have been only 2 years in A&M history that Bonfire did not burn: 1. In 1963 following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the senior class made one of the most difficult decisions of their time and decided not to have Bonfire, in his honor. All work on Bonfire was stopped as Head Yell leader at the time, Mike Marlow said, "It’s the most we have, it’s the least we can give." 2. The second year that Bonfire did not burn was 92 years after bonfire first began, almost to the hour, on November 18, 1999 at 2:42 am. The Bonfire stack collapsed and took with it the lives of twelve of our fellow Aggies and injured twenty-seven others. The Bonfire collapse was quite probably the most trying event in the history of Texas A&M, but it also allowed us to better understand the true meaning of the Aggie Spirit. Many of us believe that Bonfire did burn that year when 90,000 Aggies, friends, and families gathered at the Polo Fields on the night Bonfire was to burn to silently hold candles together. Truly, it was a beautiful Bonfire and a display of the burning Aggie Spirit in all of us. Even though Bonfire may never burn again or be the same as it was prior to 1999, the burning desire that every Aggie holds in his/her heart for the Aggie Family can never be extinguished.

Fish Camp

Every year about 1,100 counselors willingly give up time and effort in order to welcome Texas A&M’s greatest and most important tradition: The Freshmen Class. Through a 4-day orientation program held in Palestine, Texas, freshmen are given the opportunity to learn Aggie Traditions, ease their way into college life, develop leadership skills, and create bonds that will last a lifetime.

Gig 'em

Gig ‘Em is the universal sign of approval for Aggies. Coined by P.L. "Pinkie" Downs, Class of1906, when at a Yell Practice before the 1930 TCU football game Downs asked, "What are we going to do with those Horned Frogs?" and answered, "Gig ‘Em Aggies!" (from frog hunting). For emphasis he made a fist with his thumb extended up. It was the first hand sign of the Southwest Conference for 25 years until t.u. copied the idea from the Aggies and created their Hook ’em Horns. Now Aggies give each other this sign to encourage and motivate each other.

Howdy

Howdy is the official greeting of Texas A&M University! Greeting each other with a “Howdy!” separates us as the friendliest University in the world. This is the way that we make sure no one on our campus feels like a stranger. No one really knows how this tradition originated, but it is a tradition we encourage everyone to carry on!

Midnight Yell

Beginning in 1913 corps companies would practice and learn yells; "learning heartily the old time prep." The Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas yells were first described as being “scientific” due to the precision of the yells and the ability of the corps members to yell in perfect unison. Aggies in 1934 said that yell practice was “something that cannot be experienced by an outsider” and “something only an Aggie can feel." In 1931, the first official Midnight Yell Practice was held before the t.u. game. That night, some cadets in Peanut Owen’s dorm room in Puryear Hall had the idea of getting all the freshmen to fall out and meet on the steps of the YMCA building to practice yells. They asked the two head yell leaders at the time, Horsefly Berryhill and Two Gun Parker from Sherman, to attend. The two said they couldn’t authorize it, but they just might happen to show up. The rumor spread and everyone fell out of their dorms that night. Railroad flares and torpedoes were stuck into flowerpots around the YMCA building to light the area. After Peanut Owens became Yell Leader, it became a tradition to walk back and forth. This is because Peanut Owens' feet were too big to fit on the steps of the YMCA building, so he paced in order to keep his balance, and the other Yell Leaders joined in. Today, Midnight Yell is held the Friday night before a home game in Kyle Field or the Thursday night before an away game on the Quad and also close to where the game is being held out of town. Aggies practice yells and sing songs for the next day’s game, the yell leaders tell a junior and a senior fable, and then the lights go out. That is when you get to kiss your date, or if you don’t have a date, take a lighter and "flick your bic" and hope to find a random mug.

Muster

Muster represents the Aggie Spirit that binds Aggies to their school and to one another. It is more than a ceremony; it is a responsibility that is handed down from one generation to the next. Muster is a way for Aggies to renew their loyalty to their school and their friends. Aggie Muster is a special time set aside to honor members of the Aggie Family. Aggie Muster traces its roots back to “San Jacinto Day” which was a Texas holiday in the 1840s that celebrated Texans defeat of the Mexican Army in the battle of San Jacinto. As a part of the celebration in the 1890s, The Corps of Cadets were invited to play the Mexican Army in the reenactment of the Battle for Texas Independence. The State Guard played the Texans, however, since Aggies cannot stand to lose, the Aggies “rewrote history” and continually won the battles. In 1897, the Cadets were no longer invited to participate in the reenactment. In 1899, the Cadets then decided to continue the celebrations on campus and held a San Jacinto Field Day on April 21. It was a day of fun and activities without class. In 1903, the President Houston proposed canceling the Field Day, but 300 Aggies marched on his lawn to insist its observance and he returned the Field Day. During the World Wars, this tradition of meeting on April 21 evolved to include a memoriam for those who were absent. In WWI, Aggies met all over the trenches of Europe and at army posts all over America. The most famous Aggie Muster was held during WWII in 1942 on the small island of Corregidor in the Philippines. Major General George Moore ’08 led a group of recently commissioned

Aggies in a moment to honor the valiant Aggies who had died, hold a yell practice, and sing the War Hymn with all their strength, all under heavy enemy fire. In 1924, the first campus Muster was held in Guion Hall, and Muster has been held on campus since. Campus Muster is now the largest of the over 400 Musters held worldwide. Campus Muster is an all- day affair that starts with a flag raising ceremony at sunrise. The 50-year reunion class is invited back to campus for a Camaraderie BBQ where they share old Aggie “war stories” and current students tell new Aggie “war stories”. At 7PM, the Muster ceremony begins. A speaker addresses the reunion class and the student body. The Roll Call for the Absent is read, listing the name of every local Aggie, who has passed away in the past year, as well as all missing members of the 50 year reunion class. As each name is read, a candle is lit, and family and friends answer here to symbolize that while that Aggie has fallen, they are still with us in spirit. Then, the Ross Volunteer Firing Squad fires three volleys of seven shots and Silver Taps is played. The Muster ceremony is adjourned until the next year.

Replant

Replant is one of the largest student-run, environmental service projects in the nation. It was originally developed by Scott Hantman to replenish some of the trees cut for the Bonfire. In the Spring of 1991, he joined Bonfire leaders and planted 400 trees. In 1994, it became an SGA committee that works year-round coordinating the event. They are sponsored by Texas A&M, the National Tree Trust, and the Army Corps of Engineers at Lake Somerville. Hundreds of trees are planted each year by thousands of student volunteers from A&M and the Bryan/College Station area. Trees are planted at local parks, schools, and other public land properties. All trees are donated by the National Tree Trust.

Reveille

Reveille is known as the First Lady of Texas A&M and is our official mascot. While there are many stories as to how Reveille came to Aggieland, Aggie Legend has it that Reveille came to us in January of 1931 when some cadets found a mutt on their way back from Navasota and they took her back to the dorm and hid her, since pets weren’t allowed. The next morning when Reveille was blown to wake the cadets, she started barking and went wild, giving her the unique name we know her by today. At half time the following football season, she was officially named the mascot of Texas A&M when she led the band onto the field. Reveille I died on January 18, 1944 after 13 years as the mascot. She was given a formal military funeral at Kyle Field including a 21 gun salute. She is buried at the entrance to The Zone, with all the Reveilles, where they have a special scoreboard so that they can always keep an eye on how the game is going. Originally Reveille was given free reign of the campus and she was not attended to by one person but since 1960 she has been cared for by a Mascot Corporal who is a sophomore in Company E-2 in the Corps of Cadets. The Mascot Corporal is chosen within his unit each Spring Semester and she lives with him for that year, goes to class with him, out on dates, and goes home with him for the holidays. He, in turn, travels with her to all of her functions and Aggie engagements. 47

Rev is the most powerful dog in the world. She is the highest-ranking member in the Corps of Cadets and wears five diamonds (the Corps Commander only has four). That means if Rev wants your bed, you’d better find somewhere else to sleep since she outranks you. It’s also a tradition that if Reveille is in your class and barks, the professor is supposed to let you out of class because Ms. Reveille is bored. The current Rev is Reveille VIII, who has been the official mascot since 2008. She is from Topeka, Kansas. She was born May 23, 2006, and is thus seven years old.

Silver Taps

Silver Taps is one of the most sacred and significant traditions at A&M and is one of the main things that hold the Aggie Spirit together. Silver Taps is one of the final tributes held for any current graduate or undergraduate student who has passed during the year. Currently, it is held the first Tuesday of the month following a student’s death. Starting in the morning, the flags on campus are flown at half-mast. The names, class, and major of the fallen Aggies are on cards placed at the base of the flagpole in the Academic Plaza and on the Silver Taps Memorial. Throughout the day, students can write letters to the families of the fallen Aggies. That night at 10:15, all the lights on campus are extinguished. Hymns are then played on the Albritton Bell Tower, always including “How Great Though Art” and ending in “Amazing Grace.” Around this time, students gather silently in the Academic Plaza. The families of the fallen Aggies are also led into the plaza. At 10:30, the Ross Volunteer Firing Squad marches into the Academic Plaza at a slow cadence. Once they arrive, they fire a three volley salute in honor of the fallen Aggies. After the last round is fired, buglers atop the Academic Building begin to play a special rendition of “Taps” called “Silver Taps” which is unique to A&M. They play is 3 times, once to the North, once to the South, and once to the West, but never to the East, because it said the sun will never rise on that Aggie again. After the last note is played, all you can hear is the shuffling of feet as students return silently to their lives. Silver Taps has been occurring for over 100 years, way back to the first Silver Taps in 1898 for Lawrence Sullivan Ross. At Silver Taps, you stand where Aggies have stood for generations. You are connected to those who have come before you. It is also a tradition unique to A&M because no other University in the world honors students in this way. It is important to keep such a wonderful, meaningful tradition as an integral part of our university and its core values.

T-Camp

It has been said that when an Aggie graduates, the most important thing he or she walks away with is not the diploma or Aggie Ring, but the connection to the Aggie Family. Transfer Camp, or T-Camp, is a 3-day, 2-night, extended orientation program that introduces transfer students to the many opportunities that exist at Texas A&M and the long-standing traditions that embody the true meaning of being an Aggie. The idea for T-Camp came from transfer students themselves; they wanted an extended orientation experience similar to Fish Camp, but specifically for transfer students. T-Camp became “A Transfer’s First Tradition” in 1987. Today, this student-run organization is composed of over 100 current students, and welcomes around 500 new Aggies into the Aggie Family each year.

The Corps of Cadets

Texas A&M was established as a military institution. While participation became voluntary in 1965, the Corps of Cadets has played an important part in its history and development.

The Corps of Cadets at Texas A&M is not just another ROTC unit that might be found at most campuses. The 2,000 men and women of the Corps form the largest uniformed body of students outside the service academies. However, the Corps has more to offer than just military training. It is a tightly-knit group of students that offers camaraderie, as well as leadership training that is useful in all post-college careers. Although cadets can earn commissions as military officers, membership in the Corps itself carries no military obligation. In fact, only about 40 percent of graduating cadets are commissioned, while the rest pursue civilian careers.

Cadets are given an opportunity to live a disciplined lifestyle while gaining practical experience in leadership and organizational management. Their participation in the Corps operations allows them to hone these skills daily. The Corps of Cadets is the heartbeat of Texas A&M and the unique spirit and traditions that make Texas A&M special are deeply rooted in the Corps experience. For that reason, the Corps has been long regarded as the Founder of Tradition and Keepers of the Spirit of Aggieland.

Texas A&M has rich military history. More than 250 of its graduates have become generals or admirals. More Aggies were commissioned and fought in World War II than men from West Point or Annapolis. Texas A&M was established as a military institution. While participation became voluntary in 1965, the Corps of Cadets has played an important part in its history and development.

The Corps of Cadets at Texas A&M is not just another ROTC unit that might be found at most campuses. The men and women of the Corps form the largest uniformed body of students outside the service academies. However, the Corps has more to offer than just military training. It is a tightly-knit group of students that offers camaraderie, as well as leadership training that is useful in all post-college careers. Although cadets can earn commissions as military officers, membership in the Corps itself carries no military obligation. In fact, only about 40 percent of graduating cadets are commissioned, while the rest pursue civilian careers.

Texas A&M has rich military history. More than 250 of its graduates have become generals or admirals. More Aggies were commissioned and fought in World War II than men from West Point or Annapolis.

Campus Resources Student Health Services (@ Beutel) Appointments: • Available Monday – Friday from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm. • To make appointments call (979) 458-8250 between 7:30 am – 5:00 pm or online at http://shs.tamu.edu Dial-a-Nurse: • Program where registered nurses are on call to advise students regarding their non- emergency health concerns. • This service is available 24 hours Monday-Sunday. Call Dial-A-Nurse at (979) 458-8379. For on campus EMS: • Dial 9-911 Pharmacy: • Any prescription can be filled as long as it is in stock at Beutel’s pharmacy • Contact Pharmacy services at (979) 458-8292

Local Health Care Centers • College Station Medical Center • Scott & White Clinic in College Station (979) 764-5100 (979) 691-3300 1604 Rock Prairie Rd 1600 University Dr E College Station, TX 77845 College Station, TX 77840

• St. Joseph Hospital • St. Joseph Regional Health Center (979) 776-3777 (979) 776-3898 3131 E 29th St 2801 Franciscan Drive Bryan, TX 77802 Bryan, TX 77802

Post Offices in College Station On-Campus Off-Campus o 1st Floor Commons Residence Hall U.S. Post Office - (979) 693-4152 o Northside Post Office off of 2130 Harvey Mitchell Pkwy S, Houston Street College Station, TX

Student Counseling Services (http://scs.tamu.edu) Professional Services include: • Personal & Career counseling • Psychiatric Services • Academic skills enhancement • Consultation • Testing • Crisis Intervention • Outreach Program

Helpline: 979-845-2700

Bookstores (that sell textbooks): On Campus: MSC Bookstore – located in the MSC across from Kyle Field Off Campus: Texas Aggieland Bookstore (2 Locations) 2307 Texas Ave S # C, College Station, TX – (979) 696-3118 327 University Dr, College Station, TX – (979) 846-4518

Traditions Bookstore (3 Locations) 340 George Bush Dr, College Station, TX – (979) 846-6312 303 College Ave, College Station, TX – (979) 268-6002

Textbook Solutions 119 Walton Dr, College Station, TX (979) 693-3709

Places to Eat On-Campus For menus and hours of operations please visit http://www.dineoncampus.com/tamu/ for more information North Campus o Azimuth Espresso Bar o Rattlers Convenience Store Langford Sbisa Complex o Einstein’s Bagels o Sbisa Dining Center Sbisa Complex Sbisa Complex o The Daily Grind o The Underground Food Court Blocker Building Sbisa Complex o Pie Are Square CE/TTI Office Tower

South Campus o Commons Food Court o Rattlers Convenience Store o Duncan The Commons o Grill at the Pavilion o Studio 12 Pavilion The commons o Poor Yorick’s Coffee House o MSC Dining Evans Library West Campus o 41st Club o Life Savor Coffee Bar Bush Academic Building Reynolds Medical Sciences o Ag café Building o Critical Care Café o Time Out Sports Deli Veterinary Teaching Hospital Student Recreation Center

Parking on Campus (http://transit.tamu.edu) • All vehicles are required to display a valid TAMU parking permit when parked on University Property. • You are only permitted to park in your assigned lot during any week day (6:00am – 5:00pm). Make sure to review any specific regulations concerning your assigned lot at the website listed above. • Privileges to park in unrestricted or plain marked spaces in other lots except lot 30 and lot 40 from 5:00 pm to 6:00 am on weekdays are included with all valid TAMU permits. • No permit is required in unrestricted or plain marked spaces on Saturday, Sunday, or days when the University is officially closed. Exceptions include the golf lot, special event parking and athletic events. Notification will be posted at the entrance to the lot(s) for these types of events. • Review the website for questions concerning parking for football game-days, campus events, and moving in and out of dorms.

Sports Passes (http://sports-admin.tamu.edu/mysportspass/faq.php) There are 2 sports pass options available: • All Sports, or All Spring Sports

Football: o You are not able to pick your seats at football games; however, you can choose the deck which you wish to sit. This is on a first come, first serve basis. o Pulling Football Tickets the week before a home game: o To pull tickets, you will need your Student ID and your sports pass. If one person is pulling tickets for multiple individuals, only the person pulling is required to show their Student ID, but will need to have with him/her all other individuals’ sports passes. o Monday: Seniors & Large groups (A large group is defined as 10 individuals or more and these individuals will automatically receive 3rd deck) o Tuesday: Juniors & Large groups o Wednesday: Sophomores o Thursday: Freshmen o For students with disabilities special need seating located in the second deck. These tickets may be pulled on Monday regardless of classification. o You will not need your sports pass to enter football games, but will however need your Student ID to gain entrance into games. All other sports: • If you have the All Sports Pass you only need to show your Student ID at the gate to gain admission.

Tutoring On Campus - Academic Success Center provides students with an opportunity to develop knowledge, skills, and attitudes that will enhance study and exam-taking ability, while decreasing anxiety related to academic performance. Services include individual and group counseling, assessment of study behaviors, screening for learning disabilities, an extensive collection of self-help resources, and weekly workshops on a variety of study skills topics. . http://successcenter.tamu.edu/

- Supplemental instruction - SI is an academic assistance program designed to improve the student's academic performance and increase retention. The SI program targets traditionally difficult core curriculum courses and provides regularly scheduled, out-of- class, peer-facilitated group study sessions. . http://successcenter.tamu.edu/Programs/Supplemental-Instruction

Open Access Labs (computers with places to print on campus) • Blocker o Across from the North Side Parking Garage, lab is inside rm#133 o Lab Phone Number: 845-8576 o Hours: . M-R: 7:30am – 12:00am . Friday: 7:30am – 5:00pm . Saturday: Closed . Sunday: 1:00pm – 12:00am • Horticulture Classroom o In rm#119C, on West Campus near Wehner and Bio/Bio o Lab Phone Number: 862-1159 o Hours: . M-F: 8:00am – 5:00pm . Saturday & Sunday: closed • Student Computing Center o Next to Evans Library, South Side Parking Garage, South Side Dorms o Lab Phone Number: 845-8306 o Hours: . M-F: 12:00am – 12:00am . Saturday: 10:00am – 8:00pm . Sunday: 1:00pm – 12:00am • West Campus Library o West Campus near Bio/Bio and Wehner o Lab Phone Number: 862-1159 o Hours: . M-R: 12:00am – 12:00am . Friday: 12:00am – 10:00pm . Saturday: 1:00pm – 5:00pm . Sunday: 12:00pm – 12:am

Print Allocations per Semester: Students are allocated a print allowance of $30.00 each regular semester and $15.00 for the summer session to cover some of their color and black and white printing. Type of Print Cost per Sheet Back and white Single sided: 10 cents per sheet Black and white Double sided: 19 cents per sheet Black and white 11x17 20 cents per sheet Color printing: 50 cents per sheet Color Transparencies: $1.00 per sheet Color 11x17 $1.00 per sheet Basic Paper - Line Drawing $2.50 per sq. foot Basic Paper - Full Color $3.25 per sq. foot Glossy Paper - Full Color $3.50 per sq. foot 53

Computing and Information Services (http://cis.tamu.edu) (Located across the street from the SCC) • On campus computer repair • Discounted Software for students (software.tamu.edu) o Office for Windows: $20 o Windows XP Professional Upgrade o Office for Macintosh: $10 w/ x64 Edition: $10 o Frontpage: $5 o Windows Vista Upgrade: $20 o SharePoint Designer: $15 o Visual Studio.NET: $35

Writing Center (http://writingcenter.tamu.edu) Appointments: • For one-on-one appointments with a certified writing consultant either call (979) 458-1455 or make an appointment online at http://writingcenter.tamu.edu/appointments/ Locations • Evans Library • West Campus Library Write-line for quick help tips: • (979)-845-2160

*Also includes various resources to help when writing online

Office of Professional and Graduate School Advising Advising For: • Medical, Veterinary, Law, Dental, Graduate, Physician Assistant, Pharmacy, Optometry, Physical Therapy, and Nursing. Location • Henderson Hall (behind the All-Faiths Chapel) Contact & Hours of Operation • Monday – Friday: 8am – 5pm • (979) 847-8938 Resources: • Advising • Volunteer Opportunities • Workshops • Newsletters

Career Center (http://careercenter.tamu.edu) Can provide freshmen and sophomores with advice on how to figure out what to study, types of employers who are hiring in these areas, obtaining internships or cooperative education experiences, and online career assessment tests.

Phone: (979) 845-5139 Location: 209 Koldus Building

Recreational Sports (http://Recsports.tamu.edu) • Outdoor Adventures: Climbing and bouldering wall, equipment rental, retail, trips • Intramurals • Sport Clubs • Fitness • Strength and Conditioning • Aquatics • Facility rental • Rec space: pools, gyms, courts, fields, massage, boulder wall • Equipment Rental

Best Study Spots On Campus: ILSB (Spaceship looking building across Simpson Drill Field from the MSC) HECC (They have these giant awesome couches that eat you.) Kleberg – West Campus – approx. 30 big comfy couches LACY – Near Corps dorms. Park in lot 26 at night. Open 24 hours. Quiet, good temp. Couches, tables, desks. Flag Room in MSC – It’s traditional Outside: Academic Plaza – hammock in the plaza. Wifi reaches to most of the trees Research Park – on far west campus, this park has grassy knolls along a string of ponds. Also disc golf course and a favorite for dog walking Off Campus: Sweet Eugene’s Coffee Shop – on Harvey behind Fuddruckers Mugwalls – On Harvey closer to the mall on the North side Lupa’s – coffee shop. On Texas on the southeast corner of Southwest Parkway and Texas

Various Resources around campus: • Student Conduct Office • Gay, lesbian, bisexual & transgendered http://studentlife.tamu.edu/sco Resource Center • Multicultural Services http://studentlife.tamu.edu/glbt/ http://aggieculture.tamu.edu • Student Legal Services • Women’s Resource Center http://studentlife.tamu.edu/sls http://studentlife.tamu.edu/wrc • Study Abroad • Student organizations http://studyabroad.tamu.edu http://studentactivities.tamu.edu • Disability Services • Student financial aid http://disability.tamu.edu http://financialaid.tamu.edu

Useful Phone Numbers

Emergency (on campus phone) 9-911 University Operator (Directory Assistance) 979-845-3211 Campus Information/Student Locator 979-845-4741 Career Center 979-845-5139 CARPOOL 979-693-9905 Commandant, Corps of Cadets 979-845-2811 Corps Housing Office 979-845-3443 Counseling & Referral, Alcohol & other Drugs 979-845-4427 Disability Services 979-845-1637 Financial Aid 979-845-3236 Student Business Services 979-845-8127 Fish Camp 979-845-1627 Dining Services 979-845-3005 Graduate Student Services 979-845-3631 Beutel Student Health Center 979-458-8300 Helpline 979-845-2700 Honors Scholarship Office 979-845-1957 Housing Assignments Office 979-845-4744 International Student Services 979-845-1824 Department of Multicultural Services 979-862-2000 Adult, Graduate, and Off-Campus Student Services 979-845-1741 Registrar's Office 979-845-1031 Residence Life-North Area Office 979-845-4768 Residence Life-South Area Office 979-845-2235 Student Activities 979-845-1133 Student Conduct Office 979-847-7272 Student Counseling Service 979-845-4427 Transit/Paratransit (buses & assisted transportation) 979-847-RIDE Transportation Services 979-862-PARK University Apartments 979-845-2261 University Police Department 979-845-2345 Visitor Center 979-845-5851

Continued Experience after camp