If for an instant you thought the University of Texas – an institution known for many things, modesty not chief among them – would let synergy from the debate dissipate sans self-promotion, my friend, you’re sadly mistaken.
Swag bags for the assembled media came in two flavors: an Austin Convention and Visitor’s Bureau number and, natch, a burnt-orange UT bag, replete with T-shirt, notepad, and, oh yeah, a 2005 “National Champions” car sun-visor.
And as if that weren’t enough, the debate’s opening festivities – airing over closed-circuit TV for us in the news pool – started off with two jams from the university’s marching band, including a rousing version of “The Eyes of Texas.”
Take that, A&M.
This article appears in February 15 • 2008.