Gratuity Pays

by Ray Buffington, editor-in-chief

Restaurant etiquette has been drilled into our brains ever since we were little, mostly with the glares from our stern parents who were already past embarrassed by our 6-year-old-who-would-prefer-to-be-at-McDonald’s actions, and reinforced with frequent trips to the restroom that had nothing to do with relieving one’s bladder and more with connecting a swift palm to a tender bottom.

Europeans Demand Change by Revolution

by Giovanni Rosendo, associate editor

The violence has since spread to Germany, Belgium and Athens.  In Athens, for example, there were about 70 youths who “laid siege” to the French Institute with clubs, showing support for the youth of France.

It’s reported that the riots began after the deaths of two French youths.  How is this possible?  It’s not.  The deaths were merely a catalyst.

In the 1990s, the French are remembered for mocking Americans for the riots in Los Angeles, Calif.  It’s called karma, my fellow readers.

Holiday Memories: Loved One Gone but Not Forgotten

by Jordan Williams, staff writer

As I was searching for something to write for this issue, I debated whether or not to write something that I really wanted to write for a long time.

This is supposed to be an opinion article, and though I have plenty, I have yet to share my strongest opinion yet. For those who know me, they know that I am not very opinionated or even very outspoken. Of course, there are things that I feel strongly about, and I would love to share some of my more conservative views with the liberal college campus, but this article is not the place to do it.

Lone Star Card too Easy to Get

by Jacob Tucker, feature editor

In my last article, I promised the readers that I would go and apply for the Lone Star card.  Being a man of my word, I held up my end of the bargain. 

I went down to the Department of Human Services in Levelland and filled out an application for the Lone Star card.  I was surprised to see that I was approved and given one of those little pieces of plastic. 

No Body's Business: Drawing the Line Between Art, Science

by Jessica Safavimehr, staff writer

Recently, an exhibit opened in New York, displaying skinless cadavers and internal organs.

The exhibit, so named “Bodies…The Exhibition,” is meant to be sort of an informative look into the human body and how it functions. Some exhibits include a skinless cadaver in a football player’s pose and another pictures a cadaver holding hands with its own removed skeleton. All of these exhibits are meant to show how the muscles and bones work together.

Christmas Time for Sharing Love, Family

by Rebecca Smith, staff writer

Christmas for me is summed up in two words: love and joy. Throughout the past 18 years of my life, Christmas has been the highlight of every year.

The one thing I’ve leaved through the years of watching my family during the holidays is that love is what holds the magic of Christmas. Presents are a wonderful accessory that add to that magic. But without love, a present is merely an item without any sense of worth.

Ever since I can remember, the holidays have held a very special place in my heart. There is so much peace in the air, holding an essence that what is celebrated is truly a delightful experience for both old and young.

Big Brother America - Watching Others Before Watching Itself

by Tim Deleon, staff writer

Wow, school is almost over for the fall. This is the last issue of the semester, and I have absolutely nothing to write about.

Usually, I always have some smart- aleck remarks to say about something. How bad life sticks, relationships, school. But nothing seems to be hitting me right now. My article is supposed to be an opinion. I can write about almost anything I want. But what?

Countering Cliques: Just Say No

by Arthur A. Garcia, staff writer

According to Webster’s Dictionary, a clique is “a narrow, exclusive circle or group of persons; especially: one held together by common interests, views, or purposes.”  That doesn’t sound that bad, but what about the group of people whose only purpose in life is to make others feel bad

Rain Not Only Option to Make Lubbock Wet

by Bud Castilleja, staff writer

A few months ago, being wet only meant that some form of liquid had been spilled on me. Now, with all the talk and petitioning, that form of liquid becomes alcohol.

For quite some time, Lubbock’s alcohol ordinance has been a controversial matter that has, and will be disputed over and over. The things I would consider when deciding this issue would be the effects of having a dry county versus a wet county.

Endless Welfare Money Tree

by Kevin L. Mayer, co-news editor

Imagine never having to do anything but collect a government paycheck day after day. This is the situation we find many Americans in.

In 1995, the Texas Legislature passed a welfare reform bill. Although this new bill placed time limits on recipients, it left loopholes as well. While a one-to-three-year time limit was enacted, there is a five-year ban after limits have been reached.

Expand Your Mind, Not Ignorance: College No Place for Immaturity

by Desiree Mendez, staff writer

It was recently called to my attention that there are certain people on campus who are mad at me because of my opinions.

I was informed that these certain people want to “beat me up.” I find this very comical.

An opinion article is on anything that someone has strong feelings about, whether it is for something or against it. We all have the right to express our opinions, according to the First Amendment.

Web Shoppers Avoid Crowds Online

by Amelia Gonzales, staff writer

Here we are again, facing the long lines, heavy traffic, crowded stores and cold weather.

Yes, it’s that time of year. Just after so many have found themselves out of debt , we are placed right back in debt by the holiday shopping season.

As a child, one of the most memorable moments about Christmas was shopping for items for those who I love. Every year, I put a lot of thought and consideration into what I wanted to give each person. Ten years ago, I did not have an option for how to conduct my shopping. It was just the act of doing it.

Circumstantial Situations: Finding Time for College Isn't Easy

by Arthur A. Garcia, staff writer

Last week, I was registering for classes for the spring semester when it hit me.  This was going to be my fifth semester—at a two-year college.

My academic career didn’t start in Levelland, but next semester will be my fourth here.  I think I’ve barely been classified as a sophomore this semester.

Merry Mayhem, Happy New Year

by Omar Ojeda, staff writer

We come together to eat turkey, relax, and share joy. No worries or stress or fights, just being merry and not annoyed. Calmly Christmas shopping with everything in mind. But do you know you’re in for a treat with this hectic surprise… The holidays are supposed to be the most fun and relaxing time of the year when you are with those closest to you. But let’s face it, they are hell!