Benjamin Franklin is regarded as one of the most important figures in American history. A noted statesman and inventor, Franklin made a number of memorable statements. Perhaps the most profound of these was "beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy.

Liberal has become a dirty word in American politics. Webster's Dictionary defines "liberalism" as a "political philosophy based on belief in progress, the essential goodness of man, the autonomy of the individual and standing for the protection of political and civil liberties.

The coverage by The Battalion of the alleged hazing incident involving Corps Commander John Huffman has been unfair. It is a sad comment on the state of our University when the hearsay and conjecture of an anonymous parent is considered worthy of being printed as fact.

I never thought I would live to see the day when a student who earned a D or F in a class got a chance at a better GPR than a student who earned a B.

I disagree with President Gates and his administration's decision to approve the grade exclusion proposal. In my opinion, it does not enhance all students' academic experience. Instead, like many other recent administrative decisions, it merely levels the academic playing field at Texas A&M by benefiting some and handicapping others.

The A&M folks at NASA are a pleasure to work with and fantastic ambassadors of the world-renowned A&M camaraderie. An A&M coop here at NASA passed me Ms. Kiser's mail call this morning. I must admit I was pleased to see her article and appreciate her perspective.