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Gabrielle Shreve — THE BATTALION

September Ring Day will take place on Friday, Sept. 24 from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the Hall of Champions.

5,199 students to receive Aggie Rings First Ring Day of 2021-2022 academic year, estimated to be second-largest, allowing all family, friends of ring recipient By Aubrey Vogel @aubrey_vogel

ue to construction of Aggie Park near the Clayton W. Williams Jr. Alumni Center, where Ring Day is traditionally held, 5,199 students will receive their Aggie Rings in Kyle Field’s Hall of Champions on Friday, Sept. 24 during the

second largest ring day of the year. Publications manager for the Association of Former Students Cait Shields said students will enter on the west side of Kyle Field with last names A through E entering in the southwest tower and last names F through Z entering in the northwest tower. Students receiving their rings and their guests should arrive no earlier than 15 minutes before their allotted time slot. When picking up their rings, students will be asked to show two forms of identification, which can include their driver’s license, Aggie ID card, passport or ring receipt they received when placing their order. To ensure a quick and easy process, Shields said students should screenshot or print their Ring Day ticket in the event of spotty internet

connection. Communications senior Khiara Estrada said although she was eligible to order her ring during previous semesters, she waited until she could bring her friends and family to receive her ring. “The part I’m most excited about is the actual ceremony of Ring Day. I could have ordered my Aggie Ring already, but I put it off because I wanted the whole in-person shebang,” Estrada said. “With all my loved ones, I’m excited we’re able to do that again and be surrounded by everyone I love. I’m really excited.” Estrada said she chose her mom to put her ring on her finger because she has helped guide her to this point in life. “She is the number one person that has

contributed to my success in literally every aspect,” Estrada said. “She has sacrificed so much for me.” Estrada said her family, friends and a former Fish Camp counselor will be in attendance for her ring ceremony at 2:30 p.m., and throughout the day she will have the opportunity to attend friends’ ceremonies to celebrate their accomplishments. Third-generation Aggie and agribusiness senior Cate Diezi said she has been looking forward to her ring since the day she stepped on campus her freshman year, because it serves as a symbol of the Aggie family and also invites a family tradition of their own. “The Aggie Ring encompasses all of the Core Values, which is something every Aggie RING DAY ON PG. 7

Biden announces COVID-19 Action Plan Six-pronged approach to midigate virus spread in schools, hospitals By Kyle McClenagan @KMcclenagan President Joe Biden’s new six-pronged approach to handling COVID-19 hopes to protect Americans while also introducing new regulations to help the economy and keep schools open amid the raging delta variant. The six-pronged plan aims to vaccinate the unvaccinated, protect the vaccinated, keep schools open, increase testing and mask requirements, protect the economy and improve COVID-19 care, all through a science-based approach. When it comes to vaccinating more Americans, the federal government has employed the Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, to require either vaccinations or regular testing for nearly 80 million Americans, according to the Biden Administration’s official COVID-19 Action Plan, as stated on the White House website. “OSHA is developing a rule that will require all employers with 100 or more employees to ensure their workforce is fully vac-

cinated or require any workers who remain unvaccinated to produce a negative test result on at least a weekly basis before coming to work,” the website reads. The White House website also mentions requirements for paid leave for all federal workers and Medicare and Medicaid-participating hospital workers to receive vaccinations. Getting more workers vaccinated is key to ending the pandemic, Biden said in an address to the nation on Sept. 9. “This is a pandemic of the unvaccinated,” Biden said. “It’s caused by the fact that despite America having an unprecedented and successful vaccination program, despite the fact that for almost five months, free vaccines have been available in 80,000 different locations, we still have nearly 80 million Americans who have failed to get the shot.” On Wednesday, Sept. 22, the Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, approved booster doses of the Pfizer vaccine for individuals 65 and older and those at high risk for illness or exposure. These shots are expected to be available by the end of the week, according to ABC News. The Biden Administration also plans to keep schools and students safe through

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President Joe Biden pushes vaccinations as delta variant cases surge across the country.

BIDEN’S PLAN ON PG. 7

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The Battalion | 9.23.21

Robert O’Brien — THE BATTALION

News editor Aubrey Vogel receives her Aggie Ring on Friday, Sept. 24 at 11:15 a.m.

Worth every challenge

News editor Aubrey Vogel looks toward embodying Spirit of Aggieland for life Aubrey Vogel

@aubrey_vogel

rowing up, I can’t say I knew I was going to go to Texas A&M, but I did know I wanted to continue my education following high school. After becoming familiar with A&M traditions, I knew there was no other place for me. From my first visit, I heard “Howdy” echo throughout campus and later had the privilege to answer ‘Here’ for fallen Aggies at Muster. I have only just begun my Aggie journey but truly hope to embody the Aggie Spirit throughout the rest of my life. Getting to experience college in Aggieland has further opened my eyes to

what being an Aggie really means. From standing as the 12th Man in Kyle Field to standing for the fallen at Silver Taps, this place is something magical. It’s true that “from the outside looking in, you can’t understand it, and from the inside looking out, you can’t explain it.” And the best part is I now get to carry the Aggie Spirit with me forever with my ring. My Aggie gold will constantly remind me of the victories earned by A&M, including a 2021 Orange Bowl win against UNC, the trials of a global pandemic and the Aggies’ perseverance through it all. Despite all the hard work of summer classes, minimesters and 18-hour semesters, I was able to receive my ring during the week of my 21st birthday. Two milestones wrapped into one. But to be completely honest, I may be a little more

Why does a public university need private gifts? Texas A&M receives approximately 19% of its total revenue budget from state appropriations. With increasing pressure on state budgets, the role of private support is increasingly vital to Aggieland’s future. Decreases in state funding can cause increases in tuition, which can place extra financial burdens on students and families. The Texas A&M Foundation proudly partners with private donors who want to provide the additional financial means necessary for the university to excel as a world-class institution.

excited about my ring. The journey to my ring was not without the support of my friends and family, to whom I owe my endless thanks for pushing me to achieve such a big accomplishment. To my family and friends back home: Thank you for encouraging me and reminding me to focus on my goals. Without your endless support, I would not be the person I am today. Thank you for celebrating my successes as an Aggie and for learning my new vocabulary and traditions. In addition to the thanks given above, I owe a special note to my Grandma and Grandpa: Your support of my college education and Aggie Ring will forever be one of my favorite gifts from you and something that I will cherish always. Thank you for making my college expe-

rience one that I will look back on and smile while remembering the good ol’ times. To my friends in College Station: Thank you for helping to make Aggieland my home. I love that I have a group of people I can count on while five hours from home. Most importantly, thank you for making my college experience unforgettable. As I get my ring placed on my finger this Friday, every assignment, paper and test leading up to this moment will have been worth any challenges endured, teaching me that I can truly achieve anything. Here’s to showing my Aggie Spirit now and forever! Aubrey Vogel is a journalism junior and news editor for The Battalion.

CONGRATULATIONS! Nearly 5,200 shiny new Aggie Rings will be delivered at the Ford Hall of Champions

Sept. 24 | 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Aggie Ring Tickets distributed online at: tx.ag/AggieRingDayTicket

Visit tx.ag/RingDay for more information to ensure the best experience for you and your guests. Arrive any time during your 15-minute ticket time slot. Do not arrive early.

Learn more at txamfoundation.com.

Celebrate responsibly. The Association of Former Students and Texas A&M encourages Aggies to celebrate this significant moment, but celebrate it responsibly. The Association of Former Students and Texas A&M do not endorse or support any activities involving binge drinking. Please ensure you abide by current government guidelines if you choose to celebrate with others. Current Ring Delivery protocols could change at any moment should government guidelines change. Any changes will be communicated via AggieNetwork.com

The Association of Former Students is HERE for Aggies during their days as students and former students, THERE for Aggies as they make their way around the world and EVERYWHERE that the Aggie Network needs us to be.

RINGCOLUMN

The Battalion | 9.23.21

Robert O’Brien — THE BATTALION

Design editor Cori Eckert receives her Aggie Ring on Friday, Sept. 24 at 9:30 a.m.

To get to this moment

Design editor Cori Eckert says getting her Aggie Ring was motivation to succeed Cori Eckert

@corieckert

’ve never been concerned about my grades. I’ve always had that “C’s get degrees” mentality. The only thing that has kept me going has been watching the bar chart on Howdy inch closer to 90 hours with each class I passed. I wasn’t doing it for med school or law school. I wasn’t trying to be on the dean’s list. I didn’t care about a 4.0. It was all for an Aggie Ring. I’ll start off by saying a huge thank you to my family for supporting me so much more than just financially. Thank you to my mom for answering my “I’m

going to drop out” calls, my dad for encouraging me to pursue my passions and my brother for being the designated driver at my ring dunk on Saturday. Your gifts of grace and guidance are worth more than gold. Thank you to my friends at The Battalion, whose ring columns I am currently getting inspiration from — there’s a reason I’m the design editor and not a writer. Thank you for encouraging me to go to my 8 a.m. after a midnight deadline, and for letting me turn this column in late. Thank you to the A&M Club Swim team for always pushing me to be the best version of myself and to those team study nights that always lead to cheap Italian food.

Saying I’m looking forward to getting my ring this Friday is an understatement. I have had the Aggie Ring ticket tab open on my computer for two weeks, clicking on it every so often to make sure it’s still real. I bought my maroon Ring Day dress at a thrift store months ago. I’ve texted my family multiple times making sure they’ll be here at 9 a.m. sharp to meet me at Kyle Field. Receiving my Aggie Ring will symbolize much more than 90 hours. It’s knocking on a random dorm room asking a stranger to use their printer. It’s realizing that failing my first college exam did not define me. It’s the triple shot I get at Starbucks before studying for finals. It’s looking back and seeing all

the times I wanted to give up so badly, but didn’t. Being a journalism major, I get a variety of responses when people ask what I’m studying. The blank stares, the laughs, the follow-up question of how I’m going to make a living. I was never going to be a doctor or engineer, and at times I felt below those who were. Journalism was always the path I wanted to take, but it sure was discouraging sometimes. The Aggie Ring represents that no matter what our diploma says, we are all Aggies. Cori Eckert is a journalism senior and design editor for The Battalion.

RINGCOLUMN

The Battalion | 9.23.21

Robert O’Brien — THE BATTALION

Managing editor Julia Potts receives her Aggie Ring on Friday, Sept 24 at 10:30 a.m.

Far from over

Managing editor Julia Potts reflects on experiences that led to her Aggie Ring Julia Potts

@juliaapotts

or the past year and a half, I have been hard-pressed to find something to look forward to at Texas A&M. I learned to navigate the infamous Zoom University alongside my professors — though not many of them truly figured it out — only to enter my in-person senior year with few expectations for what is supposed to be the best year of my college experience, after the isolation and exhaustion of living during a pandemic. However, one particular

event has been on my mind for weeks. This Ring Day has finally given me something to look forward to at A&M after over half of my time here has been interrupted by COVID-19. This ring means many things to me: a reminder of both my wonderful and less-than-ideal moments at A&M, a sign of my accomplishment here and even a reason to start wearing jewelry. This is a huge part of the Aggie experience, and I could not be more thrilled about achieving one of the goals we all share. This ring is one of the brighter moments in a particularly dark time in the world, and in everyone’s lives. I’m sure many members of the Aggie

family have their own reasons to be excited about this semester. Classes are in person, their friends are on campus and life has become that much closer to normal. While I have to admit I loved the last few weeks, as I have spent time with so many friends I had scarcely seen since the start of the pandemic, I can’t help but think it seems wrong for me to be celebrating at such a time. Tens of thousands of people have died from COVID-19 in Texas alone, while vaccines and masks are readily available to any person who desires them. Countless students have contracted COVID-19 or been negatively impacted by this pandemic in some way or another, yet I

only see a humble few who wear masks and remain 6 feet apart from their peers on campus. I want this pandemic to end as much as anyone. But the sad truth is that it is far from over, and it hurts to know the health of so many I love is still at risk. So, when I receive my Aggie Ring on Sept. 24 at 10:30 a.m., I will be thinking of the Aggie family I hold so dear, and I will continue to do my part to help this pandemic come to an end so that it may not hurt us any more. Thanks and Gig ‘Em. Julia Potts is a political science senior and managing editor for The Battalion.

PROVIDED

Co-sports editor Jennifer Streeter receives her Aggie Ring on Friday, Sept 24 at 4:45 p.m.

Dreaming big, achieving bigger Co-sports editor Jennifer Streeter accredits A&M soccer for her Aggie dreams Jennifer Streeter

@jennystreeter3

s cliché as it sounds, when I was a little girl I had dreams of being a princess. I wanted to be Belle from “Beauty and the Beast” because I loved her intellect and passion for books. As I got older, my dreams became a bit more grounded in reality. I wanted to follow my love for sports and become a professional soccer player. Then, after I concluded my varsity soccer career at Bellaire High School, my ultimate and most realistic dream hit me — to become the new Erin Andrews. However, somewhere between dreams two and three I discovered where I wanted to pursue my collegiate education to achieve that ultimate goal: THE Texas A&M University. Between the ages of 13 and 16, I attended the Aggie Soccer Camp. I was

coached by A&M head coach G Guerrieri and counseled by members of the then-women’s soccer team roster. I vividly remember the girls showing us campers their rings and what they meant to each of them. What amazed me about this wasn’t just the ring itself, but that it meant something different to each woman. Needless to say, after attending my first camp, I was hooked. I knew I wanted to become an Aggie and get my Aggie Ring. Looking back now, my times at camp stayed with me through high school. Once I realized I wanted to become a sports journalist in high school, I further reflected on my time at these camps and realized I didn’t want to just be any journalist. I want to be the kind of journalist to cover coaches like Guerrieri and athletes like those on the women’s soccer team who selflessly give up weeks of their summers to counsel young girls who also share a love for the sport.

Now that I have successfully completed 90 hours with two minors and a 3.82 GPA, I am halfway to achieving my dream of being a successful female sports journalist. This has certainly not been without its obstacles, including being quite literally told to go “back in the kitchen” while balancing a heavy workload on top of being a philanthropy officer for my sorority. Additionally, during the middle of production for the 2021 Maroon Life Fall Sports Magazine, I faced my biggest hardship of all: my grandpa passing away due to heart failure exacerbated by COVID-19, despite being fully vaccinated. Pops was one of my biggest supporters. Hell, he was one of the reasons I decided to pursue a career in the sports industry and to attend A&M even though I was originally accepted through the Blinn Team program in 2018. But still, I persevered. After joining The Battalion as a sports writer in the fall of 2018, I stuck with

the career path and slowly advanced. I went from writing weekly articles for the sports desk to currently serving as one of the co-sports editors for The Battalion. I have an entire sports desk at my charge, have led the football content for two years in a row and appeared on national television on the SEC Network to discuss A&M football. But I’ve also remained true to my vision and covered many women’s sports, including volleyball, basketball and, of course, soccer. Now that I am getting my Aggie Ring, I have officially achieved something I’ve wanted since I was a little girl. I’ve started reaching my dreams, but I won’t stop until I fulfill all of them. To me, my Aggie Ring symbolizes my dreams. It symbolizes that I will not stop until I make each of them a reality. And above all else, this one’s for you, Pops. Jennifer Streeter is a journalism senior and cosports editor for The Battalion.

RINGCOLUMN

The Battalion | 9.23.21

PROVIDED

Special Sections editor Lauren Discher receives her Aggie Ring on Friday, Sept. 24 at 7:00 p.m.

‘Hometown heroes’ Special Sections editor Lauren Discher reflects on the Aggies who make her proud to wear her Aggie gold Lauren Discher

@laurendischer

rowing up in College Station, there were a few things my parents made sure to drill into my head. Always get groceries before the college kids come into town. Avoid campus and the surrounding area because of traffic. Don’t try to go out to eat on a game night at any restaurant that has a TV; you’ll likely be waiting for hours. Since childhood, I’ve been connected to Texas A&M in little ways. I remember my neighbor, little sister and I pretending to be cheerleaders, coming up with chants for the Aggies and doing

shaky thigh-stands in our driveway. I performed ballet, tap and jazz numbers in Rudder Auditorium, soaked in hairspray and too much red lipstick for any six-year-old. As a reward for reading so many books throughout the semester, my elementary school gave out tickets to A&M basketball games. When I was in high school, we had field trips to A&M almost every year. My interaction with A&M became something expected, something mundane. I lacked excitement about the school so many of my friends’ parents worked at, the school my parents had always expected me to attend. Instead, I hoped to attend That One School in Austin, which I’ve been advised not to mention by name.

My story is similar to that of many applicants when it comes to that particular school — I didn’t get in. Though my dreams were slightly crushed, I made my peace with going to A&M. I accepted my admission and signed up for a New Student Conference. It was in this time of acceptance during my senior year of high school that I began to notice that some of the best people in my life are Aggies: my dad, Steve Discher, Class of 1987; my favorite teacher, Wayne Stone, Class of 1977; and my neighbor — more like a sister — Brittany Scott, Class of 2021. These people, along with the group of freshmen on my Fish Camp bus, helped me see how lucky I am to have grown up in College Station alongside such

great people and meaningful traditions. Though A&M wasn’t my top choice initially, I couldn’t be happier or more thankful that this is where I ended up. I will wear my Aggie gold and remember those Aggies I hold in such high esteem. My Aggie Ring will bind me to my hometown heroes and all of the incredible Aggies I’ve come to know. Thank you to my family and friends for the constant love and support. More specifically, thank you to my parents, Steve and Carolyn, for teaching me all the best lessons about this town and being just the overall best. Lauren Discher is an English senior and Special Sections editor for The Battalion.

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The Battalion | 9.23.21

Accidental Aggie

Assistant opinion editor Caleb Powell reflects upon his journey to 90 hours Caleb Powell

@calebpowell23

became an Aggie by accident. In fact, Texas A&M wasn’t even on the list of colleges I wanted to visit when I was a sophomore in high school. Spring Break had finally arrived, and my dad and I were planning to visit Texas Christian University, Southern Methodist University and Rice University. By chance, we decided to stop by the George H.W. Bush Library on the way back to Lubbock. Since we were in the neighborhood, we made a detour into Aggieland, laying the foundation for my future. A&M wasn’t originally on my radar, partially because of the slander spewing from Raiderland. But I was enthralled by the Aggies’ friendliness, beautiful campus and rich traditions. Suddenly, A&M went from a random university in College Station to my safety school. During my senior year, I had narrowed my choices down to SMU and A&M after having virtually every other school I had applied to send me a rejection letter. The former had offered me $220,000 in schol-

arships while the latter offered me a cool poster which I subsequently lost. So, why didn’t I go with SMU? One day, when procrastinating on studying for midterms, I stumbled upon the Zachry Engineering Education Complex. I scheduled another visit to A&M, and the ocean-blue glass, vibrant greenery and bustling activity all but guaranteed a one-way ticket to my New Student Conference. It may have taken two accidents to get me to Aggieland, but everything I’ve done since has been to build my future. I’ve had to struggle through moving seven hours away from home, adjust to a devastating pandemic and completely restart my network of friends. Through isolation and overwhelming classes, I have somehow managed to attain the 90 hours needed to get my Aggie Ring. I may have embarked on an unexpected journey, but as a wise old turtle once said, “There are no accidents.” And every step from here on out is one I wouldn’t trade for anything. Caleb Powell is a biomedical engineering junior and assistant opinion editor for The Battalion.

Robert O’Brien — THE BATTALION

Assistant opinion editor Caleb Powell receives his Aggie Ring on Friday, Sept. 24 at 11:15 a.m.

Anchor during turbulent times Assistant news editor Nathan Varnell thanks family, friends for guidance through time at A&M

Nathan Varnell

Robert O’Brien — THE BATTALION

Assistant news editor Nathan Varnell receives his Aggie Ring on Friday, Sept. 24 at 4:30 p.m.

@newsncv hen I graduate this coming spring semester, it will be the end of three tumultuous, yet transformative, years at Texas

A&M. I’m proud to receive this ring. I’m proud of the work it took academically, of course, but this ring also represents the massive changes I underwent these past few years. It’s strange to think it will only have been three years, roughly two and a half at the time of writing this, since graduating high school by the time I leave A&M with this ring. I came into A&M in the fall of 2019 with a pretty quintessential freshman year as an Aggie. I had an in-person New Student Conference. I survived the food at Fish Camp and found the rich traditions and sense of community that I had been left wanting for during my high school years. I joined, and quit, a Freshman Leadership Organization, had all of my free time taken up by the Mock Trial team, chose 17-hour semesters instead of sleep, crashed on Veorides and spent plenty of my time in typical freshman spots at Sbisa, the Commons and the Memorial Student Center to name a few. I’m grateful for having that experience before things fell apart for a while. My great-grandfather, William A. Moore, was in the Corps of Cadets from 1938 to 1941 before serving in World War II on the frontlines of D-Day and 10 amphibious landings that followed. Imagining myself in his shoes after graduating next semester is infinitely more daunting than the challenge of finding “normalcy” and a career amid the COVID-19 pandemic. My great uncle, David L. Moore, was also at A&M and in the Corps from 1968 to 1972, like many of my cousins and distant relatives. So at the very least, I’m grateful for the chance to have a “normal” Aggie experience — something that

will connect me to those ancestors, just as this ring will induct me into the Aggie Family abroad. Whereas my freshman year I grew into the cliché “next step” of leaving home, my sophomore year was marked by overcoming life-long mental health challenges, allowing me to now be happier and a more fulfilled person than ever. Being left by myself for months on end forced me to take a good look at my feelings, my aspirations and the kind of person I’ve been to others. Maybe after that glow-up there have been some upsides to the pandemic. This ring will always remind me of that period and those challenges, and whatever else I may face going forward. It’ll also be a nice piece of jewelry to add to my wardrobe. This year, I feel I’ve really come into my own. By joining The Battalion, I’ve felt more satisfied with life than ever before, and I hope I can carry this sense of purpose with me beyond graduation. I’ve had my fair share of criticisms of the university these past few years, but that doesn’t change the fact it has served as my anchor. It’s taken time to find repose from my anxieties about what life ahead holds, although I’m confident my Aggie Ring will be a constant reminder of how far I’ve come and the lasting communities that will continue to support me along the way. It’s okay to be scared. As many of my loved ones have taught me, you’ll never be alone. Thank you Dad, Mom, Sarah, Grandmama, Papa and Granddad — I wouldn’t be here without you. Thank you Bryson, Neo, Amanda, Henry, Jake Davis, Jake Brien, everyone in Mock Trial and Canterbury, Jules and Spencer. You’ve saved my life. P.S. Don’t accept credits to graduate early unless you need to — you never know if a pandemic will throw a wrench in your plans. Nathan Varnell is a political science junior and assistant news editor for The Battalion.

Myranda Campanella, Editor-in-Chief Julia Potts, Managing Editor Shelby McVey, Audience Engagement Abbey Santoro, Photo Chief Robert O’Brien, Asst. Photo Chief Aubrey Vogel, News Editor Nathan Varnell, Asst. News Editor Casey Stavenhagen, Sports Editor Jennifer Streeter, Sports Editor Ryan Faulkner, Asst. Sports Editor

Cori Eckert, Design Editor & Business Manager Joshua Howell, Opinion Editor Caleb Powell, Asst. Opinion Editor Michaela Rush, Life & Arts Editor Kathryn Miller, Asst. Life & Arts Editor Annie Wells, Multimedia Editor Lauren Discher, Special Section Editor

THE BATTALION is published Thursdays during the 2021 fall semester (except University holidays and exam periods) at Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843. Offices are in Suite L400 of the Memorial Student Center. News: The Battalion news department is managed by students at Texas A&M University in Student Media,a unit of the Division of StudentAffairs.Newsroom phone: 979-845-3315; E-mail: editor@thebatt.com; website: http://www.thebatt.com.

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NEWS

The Battalion | 9.23.21

RING DAY CONTINUED should live their life by,” Diezi said. “My Aggie Ring is a family tribute, as I am a third generation Aggie. My dad paid for my uncle’s Aggie Ring, so my uncle paid for mine and I hope to buy the next Aggie in our family their own Aggie Ring.” Diezi said she is excited Ring Day will take place in a different location this year. “Having our Ring Day in the Hall of Champions makes our Ring Day extra special and unique,” Diezi said. “A lot of people have never seen the inside of the hall, so it’s just an added excitement to the already great day.” When Diezi gets her ring at 4:45 p.m. on Friday, her parents, brother and boyfriend will join her in picking it up with a traditional finish in white gold, which she said she chose as a mix of both New and Ol’ Army. Diezi said she has an endless list of people who helped push her to receive her ring. “My ring is an accomplishment not only to me, but all the people in my life who have cheered me on and helped me,” Diezi said. “My parents, of course, who instilled a duty of responsibility and work ethic. My family, who has been here for me since the beginning and has been nothing but proud of me. My friends, who have been a shoulder to cry on or had an ear to lend or an hour for a coffee break; my boyfriend and his family and their unwavering support and love.” Diezi said she has been wearing her Ring Wrap for over a year to remind herself of what is to come of her hard work. After only four semesters at A&M she is now able to pick up her ring to fill its spot. “When I’ve struggled in classes or in life or wanted to give up, I look at the empty place in my Ring Wrap or the countdown on my white board and remind myself it is all going to pay off soon when I finally get my ring,” Diezi said. “The time has gone so fast and it’s finally here. In a word, it feels unreal.”

BIDEN’S PLAN CONTINUED increased vaccinations. “To help ensure the safety of students, families and their communities, the president’s plan includes requirements that teachers and staff at Head Start and Early Head Start programs, teachers and child and youth program personnel at the Department of Defense and teachers and staff at the Bureau of Indian Education-operated schools get vaccinated,” the COVID-19 Action Plan states. During his Sept. 9 remarks, Biden also asked state governments to help promote the vaccination of educators. “I’m calling on all governors to require vaccination for all teachers and staff,” Biden said. “Some already have done so, but we need

Robert O’Brien — THE BATTALION

The Aggie Ring is a tradition dating back to 1889 for students to celebrate academic accomplishments at Texas A&M.

more to step up. Vaccination requirements in schools are nothing new. They work.” The Biden Administration also hopes to expand the production of affordable COVID-19 rapid tests to promote faster and more regular testing, according to the Action Plan. “President Biden’s plan will mobilize industry due to the urgent and compelling need to accelerate the production of the rapid COVID-19 test,” the Action Plan reads. When it comes to protecting the economy, the president’s plan will introduce more support for small businesses and make improvements to the current Payment Protection Program loan forgiveness process. “The president’s plan will help more than 150,000 small businesses by strengthening the

COVID[-19] Economic Injury Disaster Loan [or] EIDL program, which provides longterm, low-cost loans,” the Action Plan reads. “The improvements will allow more businesses to get greater and more flexible support from the $150 billion in loanable funds still available in the program.” For the final part of its new approach, the Action Plan states the administration will double the number of DOD teams working with hospitals. “These clinicians will be available for mission assignment through FEMA’s response across surge states,” the plan reads. These new regulations have received backlash from Texas Republicans, including Gov. Greg Abbott, who believes the federal gov-

ernment is overstepping its bounds. “The federal government needs to stop trying to run private businesses,” Renae Eze, Abbott’s spokesperson, said in a statement to the Texas Tribune. Republican states are likely to challenge the federal government, and some cases may even make it to the Supreme Court, Texas A&M political science professor Max Crook, Ph.D., said. “It’s quite likely to make it to the Supreme Court, the states are definitely going to sue … because that’s the nature of our society at the moment,” Crook said. Biden’s full remarks, as well as an official outline of the administration’s COVID-19 action plan can be found at whitehouse.gov.

SPORTS

The Battalion | 9.23.21

A&M soccer to face second SEC opponent at home Ishika Samant — THE BATTALION

The Aggies are coming off of a loss against Pepperdine — their first at home since 2019 — as they start against Arkansas at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 23 at Ellis Field.

Unranked Razorbacks will be first SEC team on Ellis Field this season By Jennifer Streeter @jennystreeter3 Texas A&M football isn’t the only team facing off against Arkansas on the week of Sept. 20. On Thursday, Sept. 23, A&M soccer will kick-off its home slate for SEC play against the Razorbacks. The Aggies are coming off a 1-0 loss over then-No. 9 Pepperdine in A&M’s annual Turn It Gold soccer match. Arkansas and A&M are stark opposites of each other when it comes to team rosters, with the Razorbacks boasting its prowess with upperclassmen. A&M head coach G Guerrieri said the age gap on the field is a point of issue the coaches will be watching for. “We open up our home portion of SEC

play against Arkansas,” Guerrieri said. “Arkansas and A&M are the two preseason favorites to win the league. We were co-champions last year and most of Arkansas’ team is back, they have quite a few super seniors on their team. You contrast that with our side that is mostly freshmen and sophomores and it’s one point of concern for us.” Arkansas junior Anna Podojil, 2020 SEC Forward of the Year, poses the biggest threat to the maroon and white. Podojil has started in all 47 games she has played and has recorded a current career total of 26 goals. Five of these goals took place in the nine games the Razorbacks have already played in 2021. While Podojil remains a threat, she will have to get through A&M’s junior defender Katie Smith and senior defender Karlina Sample, Guerrieri said. “The good news for us is that we have the two best center backs in the SEC in Katie Smith and Karlina Sample. We have very

accomplished wide players in the back, and we’ve got a goalkeeper who is incredible with her feet in [junior] Kenna Caldwell. That’s one of the strengths we have, the ability to play against great attacking teams like this.” Offensively, the maroon and white have had to adjust due to an indefinite injury from 2020 SEC Freshman of the Year, forward Barbara Olivieri. Sophomore forward Laney Carroll, who Guerrieri said is one of the fastest among the conference, is also currently out due to injury. These two forwards have been filled in by freshman Natalie Abel and sophomore Lauren Geczik, with Abel playing for 50 minutes against the Waves and Geczik playing the entire contest. In the Razorbacks’ last match on the pitch against the University of Tennessee at Martin, Arkansas won 4-0. Senior goalkeeper Hannah Warner will be a bit rusty going against the maroon and white, only having to post one save against the Skyhawks.

Sample said the previous loss against Pepperdine served as a wake up call for the maroon and white. “It was frustrating that we resulted in a loss,” Sample said. “We know the success is coming; at this point it’s just on us to prepare the right way.” A&M boasts a 5-3-1 season record, while the Razorbacks have a 6-2 record. Both teams have defeated the only SEC opponent they have played, with the Aggies defeating Kentucky 3-0 on Sept. 17 and Arkansas beating then-No. 13 Tennessee, 3-1. Kick-off is slated for 6 p.m. sharp on Thursday, and the maroon and white are looking to beat the previous match’s attendance of 2,002, Guerrieri said. “We’re looking forward to the game, even though it’s a real contrast in styles, I think that we are built to do very well against them,” Guerrieri said.

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The Battalion | 9.23.21

7 players to look for in Southwest Classic By Kay Naegeli @kaynaegeli

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With Texas A&M’s 3-0 start to the season, including a 34-0 blowout win against New Mexico, the maroon and white is on a quest for an undefeated season. The No. 7 Aggies will go head-to-head with No. 16 Arkansas on Saturday, Sept. 25, in the return of the Southwest Classic at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, to kickoff at 2:30 p.m. The Razorbacks are ranked for the first time since 2016 after their Week 2 41-20 win over then-No. 15 Texas. Since joining the Southeastern Conference, the Aggies are 9-0 against the Razorbacks and will attempt to remain undefeated in the series to extend their 12-game winning streak. Here are seven players to watch in the upcoming matchup:

Zach Calzada - A&M

Finally adjusting to the role of “QB1,” the redshirt sophomore has begun displaying the strength of his arm. Calzada threw for 275 yards against New Mexico, 70 of which came from a missile launched to freshman wide receiver Demond Demas. This will be Calzada’s first start against an SEC or a ranked opponent. If Calzada can keep his composure under pressure, he has the potential to make a name for himself and accumulate impressive yardage against Arkansas.

KJ Jefferson - Arkansas With a combination of athleticism and build, Arkansas’ redshirt sophomore quarterback could cause disarray for the Aggies this weekend. After Jefferson led the Razorbacks to a victory over Texas, he steered Arkansas away from any conversations about their lack of performance in the past. This dual-threat quarterback has documented 632 passing and 180 rushing yards in his first three wins this season. The 2021 A&M defense has yet to see anyone like him, and this will also be an opportunity for Jefferson to perform against a No. 1-ranked defense.

Jalen Wydermeyer - A&M A&M’s offensive scheme may have a variety of key components, but one ingredient that never changes is the junior tight end. When Wydermeyer has the ball in his hands, he is destined to do damage, averaging 11 yards per catch last season. His dependability has led to 12 career touchdown receptions, the most in program history as a tight end. The physical playmaker is one receiving touchdown away from A&M’s all-time top-10, which he could make against the Razorbacks.

Trelon Smith - Arkansas Adding onto Arkansas’ assortment of offensive weapons is its junior running back. He is one of four deadly members of the running corps, leading the pack with 216 rushing yards this season. Smith and the other Arkansas rushers ran for 333 yards against Texas, a ranked opponent at the time. The matchup between Smith and the A&M defense will be intense and physical, embodying what SEC play is all about.

Antonio Johnson - A&M The sophomore defensive back proves age is just a number when it comes to talent. Recording 16 solo tackles and another two assists thus far, Johnson leads the Aggies in total tackles and has played a key role on the top-10 defense. A&M leads the nation in the fewest passing yards allowed, fewest points per game and has yet to let an opponent score a passing touchdown this season. It is possible for the young talent to stun SEC offenses, beginning on Saturday with Arkansas.

Jalen Catalon - Arkansas Greatly contributing to Arkansas’ success this season is the redshirt sophomore defensive back. Catalon’s ability to locate the ball and stop plays will cause disturbances for A&M’s powerful running corps and standout receivers. The agile competitor is currently second in the SEC for total tackles, with 28, and has two interceptions on record. Catalon’s versatile skill set will continue to reflect in his stats, making him a player to continue to watch for in the SEC.

DeMarvin Leal - A&M Not only is the junior defensive tackle one of the more aggressive players in the country, but his veteran guidance and physicality on defense has transformed A&M’s program to another level. The Aggies have the ninth-ranked defense in the country, only allowing 3.64 yards per play this season. Leal has recorded 2.5 sacks and 13 total tackles so far. Should he prove he can dismantle SEC offensive linemen and find his way to the quarterback, just as he has done in past years, Leal will once again make a statement on the field.

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No. 7 Aggies kick-off conference play against No. 16 Arkansas

Ryan Hartfiel — THE BATTALION

Junior running back Isaiah Spiller scored his first rushing touchdown of the 2021 season against the University of New Mexico. Spiller ran for 117 yards including a 46 yard run against the Lobos, his longest of the 2021 season thus far.

Texas A&M will travel to Arlington to play at AT&T Stadium for Southwest Classic on Saturday, Sept. 25 at 2:30 p.m. By Michael Horton @mhhort

n Saturday, Sept. 25, No. 7 Texas A&M will take on the No. 16 Arkansas Razorbacks at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, in the fourth game of each team’s season. This will be the first Southeastern Conference game for the Aggies this season. Since joining the SEC in 2012, the team is 5-4 in conference openers. After a start that saw the Aggies drop two spots in the AP poll despite winning each of their three games, a strong showing could shift the conversation around the squad. This A&M-Arkansas rivalry, dubbed the Southwest Classic, is a football tradition dat-

ing back to 1903. While Arkansas leads the all-time series 41-33-3, the Aggies are riding a nine-game win streak going back to their inaugural season in the SEC. The Aggies enter the weekend sporting a 3-0 record with wins over Kent State, Colorado and New Mexico. After losing redshirt freshman quarterback Haynes King in the first quarter against Colorado, redshirt sophomore Zach Calzada led the Aggies to a gritty 10-7 victory. The Aggies bounced back from the nail-biter with a 34-0 victory against New Mexico, cashing in their first shutout victory since the 2016 season. In his starting debut against the Lobos, Calzada went 19-for-33 with 275 yards, three touchdowns and an interception. Head coach Jimbo Fisher said Calzada will learn from mistakes over time and he was proud of the Georgia native’s first start. “To come out in your first start as hot as he did, I think Zach did a good job,” Fisher said. “He held the ball [too long] a couple of times trying to make a big play, and he forced one on a third down. You’ve gotta get in the saddle and play to go through those situations, but we were very proud of how he managed

and controlled the game.” With King out indefinitely with a leg injury, Calzada will be continuing his new starting duties against the Razorbacks. He will be accompanied by a bruising duo in the backfield, as junior running back Isaiah Spiller and sophomore running back Devon Achane have both averaged north of six yards per carry through the first three games of the season. Despite this hot start, Achane said the backs need to calm down and let the big runs come to them. “I think we just need to be a little more patient,” Achane said. “I think we get a little too anxious to make a big run. We need to work on taking what we can get and waiting for the big runs to come later.” Arkansas also enters Arlington with a 3-0 record and will face A&M in its first SEC contest of the season. The team made noise with a 40-21 home win against No. 15 Texas. They also took a 38-17 victory over Rice and a 4510 win over Georgia Southern. The Razorbacks’ offense has hummed with a dominant running game. Junior running back Trelon Smith has led the way, compiling 216 yards and three touchdowns throughout

the season. While Arkansas has presented itself as a run-first squad, sophomore quarterback KJ Jefferson has had success throwing the rock, passing for 632 yards, four touchdowns and two picks through three games. Defensively, Arkansas has also been productive, allowing 16 points per game and 3.93 yards per play. The A&M defense is looking to continue its dominance against Arkansas since joining the conference. Through the first quarter of the season, the squad has allowed the fewest points per game in the nation at 5.67 and the third-fewest yards per play at 3.64. The team has also not allowed a quarterback to pass for 100 yards yet this season. Senior safety Leon O’Neal said the entire team is ready to turn it up a notch entering conference play. “The guys in this locker room know we have to go harder,” O’Neal said. “We know what time it is: it’s SEC time. It’s time to put everything together, and if [Jimbo] says we’re not doing enough, we’re going to dig deeper and try to do more.” The game is set to kick off at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 25 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington.