OCR::/Vol_111/WLURG39_RTP_20071025/WLURG39_RTP_20071025_001.2.txt O THE RING- when will we handlediversity right? Cody Bsancltamp wonders wiayit a big deal that a black woman was crowned Homecoming Queen.‘ And he wondershow long It will be before the administration stops constantly trurupstlng Its commitment to diversity. cannons / Page 5 M PHI. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2007 BY THE STUDENTS AND FOR THE STUDENTS SINCE NUMBER 6 VOLUME CXI, MICHAEL KEENAN / Sports Editor The glass doors of Traveller buses have been kicked in by students, drivers have been verbally abused and angry mobs of students have swarmed buses and cars. TraveIler’s leadership is promising to take action. Malicious bus driver, insensitive students mark Homecoming By Wes 0’Dell STAFF wmren The Traveller safe-ride system has been plagued by several high-profile incidents this year, the most shocking of which occurred earlier this month over Homecoming Week- end. In the early morning hours of Sunday, .October 7, the central Traveller dispatcher received a complaint claiming that a Travel- ler Express bus driver was drunk on the job and was charging students money to get off the bus. The dispatcher immediately contacted Ed Bulger, the Public Safety Officer in charge of Traveller oversight, and gave him the com- plaining student’s contact information. Bulg- er then confirmed the report with the student and took action. “I had no reason to doubt him,” said Bulg- er of the student report. At 2 a.m. that morning, Bulger tele- phoned the owner of Goff Transportation, the bus company the school contracts with, and reported the incident. The owner quickly agreed to investigate the driver when he re- ported back to his home base. He furthermore explained that the driver in question was a substitute who had gotten in trouble on other routes for putting up a “tip box” in his bus. The subsequent investigations conducted by Washington and Lee University and Goff “It was wrong, it hap- pened, we hope it never happens again. ” ED BULGER, public safety officer confirmed the five separate complaints Trav- eller received concerning that bus. The driver had charged students a total of $26 that eve- ning. to exit the bus, and had refused to let some people leave until they paid up. In a display of chivalry, one student self- lessly paid a total of $20 to allow several of his cashless peers to leave the bus. The charge of drunk driving was never of- ficially confirmed or denied, though Senior Aisha Davis, an otherwise uninvolved party, reported seeing a Traveller bus driving reck- lessly that night. For its part, Goff Transportation issued a formal apology and didn’t charge W&L for the bus that night. They also reported that the driver is now “an ex-employee.” “It was wrong, it happened, we hope it never happens again,” said Bulger, who was praised by the student complainants for his quick action. _ ' Unfortunately, complaints of a drunk, money-extorting bus driver were not the only issues Traveller faced that weekend. Students and alumni themselves caused their share of trouble. , Traveller has a blanket policy of no bever- ages on its buses. When one African-Ameri- can bus driver told a student to either get rid of his drink or get off the bus, the student re- sponded with a racial slur and left the bus. When the driver, a veteran army para- trooper whom Bulger calls “one of the nicest see “TRAVELl.ER" on page 3 - YouTube star preaches dating tips Judson Laipply engages students in discussion on serious commitment By Alex Scaggs STAFF WRITER ending list was introduced. Before marriage, Laipply said, religion, al- Judson Laipply, the star of the YouTube video “The Evolution of Dance,” spoke about dating in the Commons theater last Thursday. “My goal is to raise your relationship I.Q.,” he said. The speech was interactive and stu- dent-driven. Students had the opportunity before the pre- sentation to write questions on index cards, and Laipply took breaks to answer the anonymous questions during the program. There was even a “90-second blitz,” where both women and men had their respective turns to air their complaints about the opposite sex. For anyone who has seen The Dating Doc- tor in previous years, Laipply used an almost identical program. First, he asked students what issues they thought could end relationships. Students took turns giving answers like alcohol(ism), sex, exes, politics and religion. The audience laughed at outrageous com- ments, but were silent when the relationship- cohol, money, jealousy and sex are common deal-breakers. After marriage, children, relatives, jobs, boredom and time concerns are common top- “If someone texts you after I 0 p.m. on a weekend, do not think that this person wants to get in a relation- ship with you. That is a sex text. ” JUDSON LAIPPLY, dating speaker ics of conflict. “Yes,” he said, “the arguments keep on go- ing after you get married, just about different things. Relationships are work.” Laipply repeated this message several times, and he said that there are two parts necessary to a long-term relationship: commitment to the person and to the relationship itself. While the many dating doctors (or danc- ers, in this case) that grace the campus give solid relationship tips, many students think that Washington and Lee has an atmosphere that isn’t conducive to most dating gurus. “I don’t think he really understood the way it is here at W&L,” said senior Samantha Hish- meh, who attended a dinner with Laipply and members of the Gender Relations Committee. “We obviously have terrible gender rela- tions, so I just don’t think that he got it.” However, Laipply did address issues that single W&L students can relate to. “For God’s sake, if someone texts you after 10 p.m. on a weekend, do not think that this person wants to get in a relationship with you,” he said to knowing snickers from the crowd. “That is a sex text.” ' He also brought up money issues say- ing, “If you are dating someone and they re- quire that you spend money on them and buy them things every time you go out, drop See “DATING” on page 2 Tu1t1on rlsmg Ruscio claims increase needed to address school is long-term goals By Jacob Geiger MANAGING emroa Tuition at Washington and Lee has more than doubled in the last 10 years, rising from $16,470 in 1998 to $34,650 this year. And by the time room and board, books and other expenses are counted, the Office of Financial Aid estimates that this year’s cost of education is $47,300. W&L President Ken Ruscio said the tuition increase was needed to let the university address its long-term needs. “Our tuition and costs were significantly below our peers," Ruscio said. “Part of the Board [of Trustees’] reasoning was that we had significant needs in the future.” But even with the increases, the university’s tuition remains about $2,000 below the average tuition for the top 25 liberal arts schools. The board sets tuition each year after receiving a recommen- dation from Steve McAllister, the vice president for finance. Despite six years of 10 percent tuition increases, Ruscio thinks middle class families can still send a child to W&L. “There are middle class families who think they won’t qualify for financial aid but do,” Ruscio said. “We’re mindfiil of the squeeze on the middle class and part of it is that we need to tell the story [of W&L’s financial aid packages] better. McAllister said the board began rapidly increasing tuition in 2001. “Our student financial aid was well below its peers,” he said. “I guess over the last few years [tuition increases] have been trying to address strategic needs, especially more undergraduate faculty and improvements to facilities.” Ruscio said the increase in faculty, along with the need for increasingly expensive scientific equipment, has driven up costs. Students expectations have also risen. “Higher education is just more complex, whether it’s student health, security or science equipment,” Ruscio said. McAllister, a university employee since 1993, has seen the university make major improvements during his tenure. “When I came here, the Science Center wasn’t complete," McAllister said. “There have been big improvements for the arts, the University Commons and improvements for athletic fa- cilities as well.” Wilson Field, the General’s football and lacrosse stadium, is scheduled for renovations this winter. The Colonnade will also undergo major interior renovations during the next decade. “There won ’t be lower tuition, because the educational experience at Washington and Lee won ’t change. Interaction with the faculty won ’t change. ’ KEN RUSCIO, W&L Presldent The influx of new faculty has cut the annual teaching load from seven courses to six, and Ruscio is currently proposing changes to the school’s academic structure that could cut the load even further. Most top liberal arts colleges require faculty to teach five courses a year, with some requiring only four. Ruscio’s proposal Earlier this fall Ruscio unveiled a plan to overhaul the univer- sity’s academic life. He wants W&L to become a national leader in discussions about liberal arts education. Part of the plan calls for Spring Term to shrink from six weeks to four. Students would focus on taking one intensive class dur- ing the month-long term. Ruscio wants faculty to vote on the plan before Christmas. but even if the plan passes, the shorter school year won’t mean lower tuition. “There won’t be lower tuition because the educational experi- ence at Washington and Lee won’t change,” Ruscio said. “Inter- action with the faculty won’t change. One reason we’re looking at this is we want to provide the opportunities we have now at the level students expect.” Under the new plan, 108 credits would be required for gradu- ation. The current requirement is 115 credits, down from the 121 that were required for the Class of 2006. Ruscio said the lower graduation requirements would not prevent students from taking additional classes. But retaining the old course load in a four week Spring Term would force students to overload their schedules, taking more credits than recommended by the school’s academic deans. “All of those experiences we associate with academic quality won’t change,” Ruscio said. A major gift Financial aid got a big boost this summer when Rupert John- son, a Class of 1962 alumnus who is vice chairman of Franklin Resources, donated $100 million. The lion’s share of the money — $85 million — will be used to pay the full educational expenses for 44 students in each future class, starting with the freshman entering next fall. Some of the slots will be merit-based, while others will be need-based. See “AFFORDING” on page 2 OCR::/Vol_111/WLURG39_RTP_20071025/WLURG39_RTP_20071025_002.2.txt unwegfa H\NeT WAS NGTON. GET :23 6 Zlllil 2 o THE RING-TUM PHI ' THURSDAY, OCTOBER 25', 2007 Affording W&L continued from page 1 Ruscio said the gift will also allow W&L to virtually eliminate loans from future financial aid packages. Associate Dean of Admissions Jonathan Webster said his ofiice expects the new program to help more students discover W&L. “We expect the program to garner a lot of attention for W&L ,from students and parents from guidance and college counselors, and will entice them to explore us as an option, when they might not have before.” Webster says the Admissions Office works hard to get students to apply for financial aid. That helps prospective students see that the cost of W&L is some- times less than that of schools Dating advice continued from page 1 them as soon as you can. They have a hole in them that you will not be able to fill with presents and expensive things.” “I thought he was great,” said freshman Jenna Finger. “He was really funny, and ev- eryone participated a lot.” Participation was definitely a high point of the program. Students made comments that ranged from witty to completely inappropriate. The student turnout was fairly small compared to the turnout for the Dating Doctor last year, but that could have been because of midterrns or the lack of publicity surrounding the event. The students that knew Laip- ply from his YouTube video were not disappointed. To conclude his presentation, he performed “The Evolution of Dance.” , A . He said he intends to release “The Evolution of Dance 2” in November. Laipply ’s Five Characteristics of a Healthy Relationship: Justin Laipply gives advice about the components of healthy relationships to those currently in relationships and those seeking one. Trust- “Trust is the foundation and the building block for every relationship--not just romantic.” Respect— Mutual. Equal. Earned. Intimacy- “Not sex... The small I things in a relationship that you share with that person and that person alone.” Passion- “If you’re dating some- one, and there’s no passion, it’s like dating your brother or sister. Believe me. I’ve tried.” (cue the West Virginia jokes) C0mmitment- “Both the rela- tionship and the person. Things are going to change. Why? Life is change.” Laipply’s Guide to Knowing if Someone is Interested: The quicker they want to have sex, the less long-terrn plans they have for you. If they say ‘let’s date other peo- ple,’ beware, as often, we don’t really share what we intend to keep. Observe the way they treat people around you. That’s likely to be the way you end up being treated. The more personal information they offer, the more badly they want to get to know you. If they are willing to alter their life to accommodate you, you matter to them. with a lower tuition price. He did say, however, that high costs had not deterred students from applying to W&L’s binding early decision programs. Rising tuition, of course, is not a phenomenon isolated to W&L. Webster said the high cost of pri- vate schools around the country has made prospective students and their parents want more infor- mation up front about the colleges they are considering. “I suspect that the rising cost of higher education is partly re- sponsible for the fact that stu- dents these days apply to a lot of colleges,” Webster said. “Some of our applicants apply to 10 or more other schools.” A student perspective Junior Jen Lysenko is a George Washington Scholar, the Wash- ington merit scholarship that will be folded into the new Johnson Scholarship program. Lysenko, a biology major, says the scholarship was instrumental in getting her onto W&L’s cam- pus. “I applied to nine schools,” Lysenko said, “and W&L was the only one I applied to without looking at it. The [George Wash- ington] interview weekend made me want to come.” Lysenko said the visit sold her on W&L even before she won the scholarship. But the scholarship has continued to open up new op- portunities for her. “I’m trying to go to dental school after graduation,” Lysenko said. “It would be an awful lot of debt to get myself into, but the scholarship has been a huge help financially because now I have money for dental school that I would have spent on undergradu- ate tuition.” Using money that she didn’t have to spend on tuition, Lysenko spent last Spring Term studying abroad in Italy. Just weeks after remming to the United States, she turned around and flew to Mt. Kilimanjaro for a two-week trip with the W&L Outing Club. Lysenko said the African trip was the “best experience of [her] life.” What’s in store Ruscio and McAllister both said the days of 10 percent tuition increases may be finally ending. “I’d guess we’ll be between [a] 4.5 to 5.5 percent [increase] next year,” McAllister said. A five percent increase would bring next year’s tuition, room and board to a combined $46,378, an increase of about $2,200. McAllister and Ruscio said they think fiiture increases will be pegged against increasing costs of education rather than large capital expenditures. And W&L does remain near or below its peers in the top 25. Colgate’s tuition for 2006-2007 was $3,155 higher than W&L’s mark. Grinnell, in contrast, was the cheapest top 25 school that year with a tuition of $29,030. Ruscio said there’s little chance of tuition decreasing in the future. He also isn’t expect- ing any tuition freezes. “Tuition does not pay the full cost of student education,” he said. “The endowment pays a good chunk of it.” Massive donations to the en- dowment would be needed to make a reduction feasible. “If you’re thinking about freezing tuition, you’d need en- dowment growth well beyond U.S. Cellular“ offers you a 30-Day Network Trial that gives you the space and the freedom to make sure your phone works where you want to use it and not just where you’re forced to use it. U.S. Cellular is wireless where you matter most?“ % U.S.Cellula1: getusocom “F888-BUY-USCG 30-Day Guarantee: Customer is responsible for any charges incurred prior to return. ’© 2007 US. Cellular Corporation. cost growth,” Ruscio said. “And not all of the endowment goes to- wards paying costs for students.” In the meantime, students—and their parents—are left to foot the ever-rising bill. :'a.ee9+oo: $35,950. %.2QOO¥01:‘$17,r , ,_'2001~02: $19,170. :.20'O2g03:.$21;000_ , :003r04_=c..$22a9°9.l:‘ie 525,300” g E2005-05:$27,290 .9 E25037 733.3123-75 ._ ’ come: s34,e5o*: -Tuiti I at W&L ‘over the last 10 years . Source: VP for Finance Steve’ MeA_ll§st , NI SO Kyocera Strobe OCR::/Vol_111/WLURG39_RTP_20071025/WLURG39_RTP_20071025_003.2.txt THURSDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2007 3 ° THE RING-TUM PHI 0 Plan launched to enhance W&L experience Entire school community charged with developing a Quality Enhancement Plan By Alllson chopln surr wmren This week markedthe first step in developing a Quality Enhance- ment Plan (QEP), a necessary component of Washington and Lee’s re-accreditation and a plan that seeks to improve learning. W&L must be re-accredited every 10 years by the South- ern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). As an accredit- ed member of SACS, the univer- sity is eligible to receive federal money such as grants and loans. This also allows W&L to keep its position as one of America’s top colleges. To be re-accredited, W&L is required to enhance its commit- ment to education by putting into action a proposal that will im- prove some part of the learning experience. This is the QEP. The main requirement is that the plan should affect the entire commu- nity, including students, faculty and staff. The possibilities for the QEP are open. The plan can focus strictly on the classroom, or it can be extracurricular or a com- bination. Examples include creat- ing new study abroad programs, developing courses that instill values and morals, improving technology or even adjusting the school calendar. Other SACS member colleges have already implemented plans such as these. For example, Da- vidson College recently developed a QEP that focuses on a freshman year writing program, a revision of the Humanities program, and Traveller controversy contlnued from page 1 drivers around,” asked the pas- sengers for help in identify- ing the offending student, none spoke up. Bulger issued a formal apol- ogy on behalf of the students, the university, and Traveller. Nor was that the end of Trav- eller’s troubles that weekend. Junior Rebecca Koval, a driver with Traveller Dispatch, was responding to a call from a packed Red Square when her van was swamped by passengers. When Koval asked them to get out and make room for the stu- dents who had called her there, one passenger riding shotgun grew hostile. Holding a female friend in his lap, the passenger remarked that he graduated last year and “knows how the system works.” He then proceeded to complain that there were “too many f—ing people waiting,” and that they would have to wait for the next car. opportunities for in-depth study across departments. A committee consisting of fac- ulty, administrators, students and staff has been formed to develop the idea that will become the QEP. Professor Michael Anderson is the chairman of the committee. “Our committee’s first goal is to help community members un- derstand what a QEP is, that it is focused ultimately on students,” said Anderson. The student representatives are freshman Class Presisent Charles Curry, junior Rich Cleary, and law student Katy Hall. These students are enthusiastic about their role in the process. “I feel strongly that the plan W&L proposes will greatly improve the educational experience,” Hall said. The committee also wants to express that the QEP goes beyond mere re-accreditation. “While, of course, receiving a degree from an accredited univer- sity is important to students, the substance of the QEP itself should play a large role in the campus learning atmosphere. Hopefully, the QEP will be transformative for our community, enhancing and/or expanding educational op- portunities,” said Cleary. In order to choose the idea that will have the optimal success, the committee has turned to the en- tire community. Students, faculty, and staff are asked to submit their ideas. They can do so by visiting the webpage at QEP.wlu.edu or by dropping their suggestions in boxes in the Marketplace, Elrod Commons, or the Law School’s “I’m not getting out of the car, b——ch,” he then told Koval. “I paid tuition for four years. . .so drive me, b—ch.” Koval contacted her dis- patcher, who advised her to take the hostile passenger where he wanted to go for her own safety. “I should’Ve went to the‘ police [who were nearby],” Koval said in retrospect. Now in her second year of driving, Koval said that she had never been verbally abused in that manner; “I’ve never had to raise my voice to a passenger.” “I can’t say my experience [over Homecoming] is unique,” she added. Traveller’s incident reports bear that out. The year did not start auspi- ciously; the Friday before Ori- entation Week saw a law student dispatch driver verbally harassed by a group of students claiming to be affiliated with the Cadaver Society; they blocked the road and shouted obscenities while one flashed the Cadaver emblem on his cell phone and threatened Brief Stop in Sydney Lewis Hall. “It’s very important that the community understand that all of us are charged with coming up with a QEP,” Anderson said. All suggestions must be sub- mitted by November l 6. Afier this date, the committee will evaluate all suggested ideas. The top three submissions will be presented‘ to Provost June Aprille by January or February. This is when the Pro- vost and administration will take “The QEP itself should play a large role in the campus learning atmosphere. ” RICH CLEARY, class of 2009 over in implementing one of the ideas. To narrow down the sugges- tions, the committee must con- sider which ideas fit the criteria for the QEP. The plan must focus on learning, affect a large portion of the community and agree with W&L’s Mission Statement. The effect on learning must be able to be measured over time. Potential cost will also be evaluated. “We are blessed by being in a community with the ability to bring resources and talent to a project. The campus environment is so dynamic, there are always ways to build upon our traditions in creative and new ways. I have no idea what the QEP will be, and there’s a lot of work ahead, but the driver with reprisals for not picking them up. The door glass on one Travel- ler bus was kicked out by rowdy students. Dispatch cars have been mobbed by angry crowds. Riders have provoked the po- lice into boarding the buses on multiple occasions. Dispatch di- rectors have been harassed over the phone by irate inebriated stu- dents. Traveller’s student chair, Yin- yan Li, was most surprised by the number of incidents that have cropped up so early in the school year. “Things came to a head very quickly,” she said. Traveller made headlines last Spring Term during Alumni Weekend, when widespread row- diness drew a quick rebuke from student leaders. Li’s greatest concern is stu- dents misconstruing Traveller’s true purpose. “It can’t be seen as a taxi service...it’s purpose is to get you home, not to parties.” Likewise, Koval is concerned that students see Traveller as an sometime next semester we are going to have an exciting pro- gram,” said Anderson. The proceedings of the com- mittee will be continually made public. Anyone in the community will be able to read updates on the website in the near future. While committee members are confident about the future success of the QEP, some students have their doubts about how much the plan can actually achieve. “I think some of the ideas the school will get might be difficult to implement, so even though students will be suggesting ideas that we all want, they won’t be chosen by the school. I think the school will pick something sort of in the middle between changing something radically and keeping things pretty similar to how they are now,”,freshman Greg Franke said. Curry, Cleary and Hall are currently reaching out to various groups of students in order to en- courage responses. They also of- fer a potential prize: anyone who submits an idea will be entered into a drawing to win a video iPod. More than 30 ideas have been received in the first few days. The committee members are optimistic about the response and support they will continue to re- ceive. “One of W&L’s strengths is its pro-active student body, and the request for QEP submissions is a way for students to demonstrate just how much they care about their university,” said Hall. entitlement and consequently for- get that it is student volunteerism that extends W&L’s community of trust to its safe ride system. “If we weren’t in the bubble [that is W&L],” she said, “they’d be arrested.” Nonetheless, Koval is thank- ful for the majority of passen- gers, who she says are respectful and grateful. She sees her work with Traveller as serving the W&L community. “I do it because I like helping people,” she said. Despite the very public trou- bles of the current school year, Li is pleased that student ridership numbers continue to rise. “More students are taking responsibil- ity [for getting themselves home safely],” she said. Bulger is also pleased that students continue to show inter- est in Traveller, both in riding it and driving for it. He does sound a cautionary note, though; “We’re bound and determined to stop [the abuse of drivers],” he said. TUSCANY Italian Restaurant (owned and operated by the D ’Avanzo Family) Chef Luciano D’Avanzo with over 40 years experieence and family proudly offer a romantic atmoshphere and an affordable dining experience with a delicious array of authentic regional italian delicacies. Live Piano nightly! Cozy main dining room with fireplace Banquet/private dining facilities Domestic and imported wine and beer list Full ABC liquor license Casual attire www. tuscanyitalianrestaurant.com ldavanzo2003 @yahoo. com 540.463.9888 Open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner 24 North Main Street in Historic Downtown Lexington The jilntique Mall 760 N. Lee Hwy Next To Tractnr‘ Supply in Irleart of Lexington. 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WIS’s latest cyclical stock pick is Joy Global, Inc. (JOYG). Joy Global is the worldwide leader in mining equipment, parts, and ser- vices, with a market share of about 60 percent. Mining stocks are con- sidered cyclical because as the economy grows, they grow: businesses need more energy and materials from mining companies as they pro- duce more goods. About 51 percent of Joy Global’s revenues come from international markets, leading to enormous potential for overseas growth in emerging markets. However, it has been largely overlooked by US analysts because the American coal market is so weak. Martin blames this weak market on the US’s recent abnormally mild weather. “In the next couple of years, we expect weather patterns to revert to normal, so coal excavation should increase. This, along with enormous growth in emerging markets and the oil sands region of Canada, should drive revenue growth for years to come,” he said. The oil sands region of Canada contains an estimated 174 billion barrels of economically recoverable oil, which can only be recovered by shallow mining. According to the cyclical group’s WIS’s calculations, Joy Global is the most undervalued company in their market. They determined the fair value to be around $70 per share, which is roughly 35 percent above its current price. WIS’s presentation this Friday will feature a full analysis of this stock option, as well as an overview of their decision to sell Carnival Cruise Lines (CCL). WIS stock picks are strictly the opinions of the aforementioned in- dustry group and should not be used as the basis for individual acquisi- tions. Always consult your personal financial advisor before making an investment decision, as all stock investments carry risk. Past results are not necessarily indicative of future performance. ’ . Ema, e fieetaamat Przmr. 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Exit 195. 2516 North Lee llwy, lxxington, VA 54!}-463~3478 Erect feed 5: a great collection of Antique Pedal Cars 6’: Tin Toysl SPEAK continue the tradition OCR::/Vol_111/WLURG39_RTP_20071025/WLURG39_RTP_20071025_004.2.txt THE RING-TUM PHI ' 4 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 25,2007 opinions Halloween Big Leagues The clothes make the man, so avoid the store-bought costumes and be original By crlghton Allen snxrr wnnsn Say tomorrow you find yourself walking to class next to someone whom you don’t know very well. As the silence builds to an awkward level, you begin to search your mind for a question to ask to alleviate the tension. Before resorting to the wom—out go-to “Are you going out tonight/Did you go out last night,” think a little bit harder about what holiday is just around the comer. That’s right, it’s Halloween. Instead, you could ask that person, “What are you dressing up as for Halloween?” Oh yes, you had better believe they will be dressing up for Halloween and you should be too. I A Dressing up for Halloween during that awk- ward age of 14 might have made you a “loser” then, but this isn’t seventh grade anymore. It’s college, the big leagues. You need to dress up and you need to bring your A-game. Costumes make Halloween. Candy is great, no doubt about it, but you can get that any time of year. Rare is the oc- casion when one can go out in absolutely any- thing that can be justified as a costume without winding up on “What Not to Wear.” Halloween costumes give you the freedom to be for one night whom you have always secretly longed to be, but have been afraid to manifest that persona in public. Fellas, are you feeling a need to embrace your inner guido? There’s still time to join a tanning salon, dye your hair platinum blond, and find a track suit or tight-fitting silk de- signer shirt (popped collar, of course) before MyGreeks the big night. Ladies, have you logged some serious gym time lately and want to show off your newly improved body but afraid of being labeled if you show ofi° too much? Halloween night is your free pass to wear whatever you want. Might I suggest going as a bunny rabbit 2'1 la Reese Witherspoon in “Legally Blonde”? As for my own costume, I am still kicking around a few ideas. Mowgli from the “Jungle een to leave myself plenty of solid options. Halloween is a time to be embraced. In high school you might have drified away from donning a costume. This year, I urge you to dive back into the tradition with full vigor. Wear anything you want. Just make sure your costume is good. You have plenty of time to create an origi- nal get-up. On Halloween night, there should be no excuse for a pre-made, store-bought Ladies, logged some serious gym time lately and want to show off your newly improved body but afraid of being labeled if you show off too much? Halloween night is your free pass to wear whatever you want. Mght I suggest a bunny rabbit a la Reese Witherspoon in Legally Blond? Book” is an early favorite. All I would have to do is quickly modify a hand towel into a loincloth and smear some dirt on my face, and then I’d be good to go. For me to pull off a convincing Mowgli, though, I would probably need to go on a crash diet between now and Halloween, so that might be out. Super Mario is also a definite possibility. A red hat, red shirt, and overalls can be acquired easily and cheaply. Oh, and a fake mustache, that is the key element. Will Ferrell’s many characters are also great, and most of them would also require a fake mustache; maybe I should just grow out my own mustache between now and Hallow- costume. You go to W&L; you are better than that. Encourage your professors to get into the spirit as well and to lecture in costume on Hal- loween day. Or, during an office hours discus- sion over your research paper’s thesis, seek their counsel about which outfit you should wear. Your professors truly care about you as an individual and want you to look your best. Cultivating a campus-wide excitement over Halloween is just what W&L needs. The more people that become involved with the festivi- ties, the better the experience will be for all who participate. See you out Halloween night. m attack People not wicked but do precious little-1to'form‘Ivirtuous members from freshmen By Dane Boston COLUMNIST It’s a rotten thing to be misconstrued. Do I not express my thoughts clearly? Do I ask too many rhetorical questions? Such was my dilemma after reading last week’s Ring-Tum Phi. I found myself excori- ated for an article I didn’t know I’d written. I grant that the author of the letter to the editor, an alumnus who disliked my treatment of our Greek system, makes no personal attacks or outlandish statements. But his letter stings me just the same, because I never thought myself guilty of the crime for which I stand accused. Apparently in an editorial playfully entitled “Test Everything Possible,” in which I elabo- rate on and attempt to apply the lessons we find hidden in a Latin phrase on the school crest, I say things that Steve Scully, Class of 1976, construes as an attack on the Greek system. insist that not all ways are equal. There are ways to go through the Univer- sity guided by a devotion to and reverence for the principles of honor and liberal learning from which we construct our identity and draw our strength. There are ways to go through the University shaped by a commitment to self- improvement and the improvement of this campus community and the wider community we inhabit. There are ways to go through the University that challenge and destroy the ste- reotypes, preconceptions, and falsehoods that hold us back as individuals and as a group. These ways honor the legacy of supportive alumni, the work of committed faculty, and the vision of our great namesakes. But there are other ways of going through the University, ways that disgrace the moral foundations of this place. I do not contend that the people who go through Washington and Lee enjoying the active party scene are wick- What regard is there in the Greek system for human dignity when fraternities degrade men and call it bonding, or disgrace women and call it great fun? I accuse the Greek system. Now I don’t mind being disagreed with. A good debate or battle keeps us on our toes and forces us to confront the inconsistencies and weak points in our thinking. But if people find in my writing something I didn’t put there, then there must be something at fault with my writing. If I have euphemized or dallied with my argument, I have done a disservice to my- self and anyone who condescended to read my poor scribbles. So let me set the record straight, once and for all. My editorial was not in any way an at- tack on the Greek system. I encourage students to consider the institution honestly, fairly, and critically. My editorial was an attack on the blind ac- ceptance of tradition and senseless acquies- cence to unreasonable and unhealthy practices and activities. I stand by my statement that freshmen should investigate and test all of our traditions, accepting the good and rejecting those that run afoul of sound principles and common sense. To reiterate, my editorial of several weeks ago was_not an attack on the Greek system. But since I’ve never been one to accept credit for something I didn’t do, please accept the fol- lowing attack on the Greek system. As Mr. Scully states in his letter, “there are as many ways to go through W&L as there are students that have and will attend the Univer- sity.” This I cannot deny, but I must fervently ed. They have as much a right to revel in the social life of Lexington as others have to em- brace wholeheartedly the intellectual life. I do not claim that fraternities take good men and corrupt them or twist them into evil perversions of the collegiate ideal. There are good men and women whom I know and love dearly who have done great things through their fraternities and sororities. I have, however, seen precious little evi- dence to convince me that fraternities take freshmen men with little sense of moral obli- gation and duty to others and work to instill those virtues in them. Instead, I have seen im- pressionable, malleable young men drawn into organizations that laugh at exploitation and encourage intemperance in every vice. I have witnessed the disastrous ripples spread through every layer of campus life, dividing and stratifying the student body and pitting us all against the larger Rockbridge community. I do not accept, as an answer to my criticism, tales of the good done by our Greek organiza- tions. Thousands of hours of volunteering and thousands of dollars in charity cannot atone for thousands of men and women deceived by elit- ism into doubting their very self-worth. The good done by Greek organizations ought to have nothing to do with philanthropy but with empowering, edifying, and enlight- ening members. It ought to blend seamlessly with the academic experience, reinforcing the lessons of a liberal education. These clubs ought not drown students in a sea of cheap beer (a process commonly called rushing) and then grind them down under boulders of physical and emotional abuse (or pledgeship in the language of the people). What regard is there in the Greek system for human dignity when fraternities degrade men and call it bonding, or disgrace women and call it great fun? I accuse the Greek system. Some may argue that it is not responsible for the culture that limits and degrades this ex- traordinary University. Such people must not have any regard for the simple demograph- ics of this place. If eighty percent of our stu- dent body enjoys some level of involvement in Greek life, and problems of sexual assault and alcohol abuse persist at or exceed national levels, the Greek houses should respond vigor- ously, uncompromisingly, and relentlessly. Some will say that the problems I lay at the feet of our cherished fraternities plague every college campus. To them I say that for three years I have listened to empty rhetoric about the difference fraternities and sororities make here and the unique culture we cultivate. Where is their differing influence in these grave con- cerns? How does our unique culture respond to these pressing issues whose apparent ubiquity threatens to consume our entire generation? We have no excuse to share the vices of oth- er campuses. This is W&L in old Lexington, saved from ruin by no less a man than George Washington and from irrelevance by Robert E. Lee himself. Ought we not to hold ourselves to higher standards and loftier ideals? Cast off base hypocrisy! Let us open our eyes and assess the situation frankly and hon- estly. Not as an independent, but as a proud student of this fine school, I say I have had enough. The preceding paragraphs constitute an at- tack on the Greek system. It is not an attack on the many fine people in the Greek system, but on the organizations in spite of whose influ- ence those people are good. I hope the many fierce defenders of our “time—honored tradition” will seriously con- sider whether friendships and memories (of which I have many, and none made by endur- ing the patented bonding techniques of our in- stitutional torturers) are a good enough excuse for stratification, degradation, and rampant in- temperance. We have come to college to think hard about real things; we must not simply “live and let live,” for that is the unexamined life not worth living. Instead, let us live well, and gently help others to do the same. After three years of observation I believe that the Greek organizations do not support that goal, and should therefore be dramatically reformed or abandoned. edfloi Kappa Sigma article deceptive Unclear that sophomores were only pledges, never truly initiated . To the Editor, I am writing to express concern with the article entitled “Beta offers 12 bids to former Kappa Sigs.” The first issue in the article that is, at best, unclear is the author’s relationship to the quoted alurrmus, Bill Kientz. If the quoted individual is related to the article’s editor, that ought to be disclosed. If this isn’t the case, the coincidence deserves clarification in the text. The statement that “Price has already extended 14 bids to upperclassmen, 12 of whom are former Kappa Sigs,” is also extremely problematic. The article does not explain that the 12 “former Kappa Sigs” are in fact all sophomores—technically upperclassmen, but usually not referred to as such. In addition to allowing readers to believe that former Junior and Seni Kappa Sigmas are joining Beta, it does not draw a distinction between those who were affiliated with Kappa Sig for 3 years and those who were pledges for 3 weeks-the article makes no mention that the 12 were former pledges, and never actual initi- ates. The entire reference to Kappa Sigmas in the article is, in my view, misleading. The tone of the article leads the reader to believe that Junior and Senior Kappa Sigs are joining Beta. This is absolutely not the case. Moreover, one student quoted in the article is referred to as a “former Kappa Sig.” In the 2005-2006 school year, this in- dividual was a Kappa Sigma pledge for less than a quarter of New Member Education before ‘fdepledging” of his own ac- cord. I believe that referring to a man as a “former member” — an fraternity into which he was never initiated and from which he chose to immediately disaffiliate more than a year ago is misleading. Sarah Kientz is typically an excellent reporter, but I’m afraid that this article suffered from a significant failure in editorial oversight. Sincerely, George Hunter ‘08 , Ed. 3‘ note.‘ Hunter is the former of Kappa Sigma president. Campus support for pregnant students Options for those who want to stay at W&l Dear Editor, We write in response to a letter in the October 8, 2007 is- sue regarding the possibilities for pregnant students at W&L. While we appreciate the spirit in which the letter was writte we would like to correct the assertion that “we have no supprfi systems for a student to continue her education on this campus and be pregnant.” We have since had some great conversations with the stu- dent who submitted that letter to inform her of the multitude of services provided for students who choose to remain a student when dealing with an unexpected pregnancy as well as should a student choose to remain at W&L. However, since the letter has such wide readership, we thought it important to disabuse readers of the notion that there is no support for students who find themselves in this situation. W&L offers comprehensive student health services to its students as shared in orientation and with students throughout their time at W&L. This includes pregnancy counseling ay connecting students with area resources. There have, in f , been students (both male and female) who have chosen to re- main at W&L and parent. In Spring 2006, Students for Life sponsored a pregnancy resource forum, with an outside consultant from a nationally- based organization, that asked campus leaders to discuss re- sources for students with an unexpected pregnancy. Following that forum, W&L was actually singled out by the leader of that national organization as the University that provided more services and assistance than any other college or university she had ever visited. Like all of the University’s services, care is offered case-by-case and sensitive to the needs of individual students. One might then argue “Why don’t I know this?” That is o e reason we write this letter today. It is possible to be a parent ah a student while at Washington and Lee. Working with students who find themselves with an unex- pected pregnancy is one of the many services offered to W&L students. Our Student Health Services works with health—related issues from A - Z. The Dean of Students Office works with students to navigate academic adjustments that might be necessary for a new parent including obtaining course reductions if needed. The Dean of Students Office and Student Health Services work together to help secure the many items necessary for new parents and in- fants and, as needed, obtain appropriate housing. If you’re interested in working to spread the word about health-related services at W&L, we encourage you to partici- pate in LIFE, the peer health education group on campus. T University also has student organizations that support both pro- life and pro-choice stances for interested students. What’s most important in this conversation is that W&L works hard to support students no matter the individual situa- tion in which a student finds him or herself?-welcoming a new child into this world is not an exception to this. Dawn Watkins Dean of Students Jameson Graber President, W&L Students for Life OCR::/Vol_111/WLURG39_RTP_20071025/WLURG39_RTP_20071025_005.2.txt THURSDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2007 THE RING—TUM PHI '5 opinions Facebook Validation With all the applications and the intrusive mini-feed, addiction is easy if ‘ff By Grace Andrews C0 LU M N l ST Oh, the latest pop culture phenomena- Facebook. First, I want to discuss the expansion of F acebook. The F acebook was started as a project of a Harvard student that was to be ex- clusively for college students, or people with university e-mail addresses. The problem was that not every college was on F acebook. As of a year ago, F acebook was opened to everyone. And when I say everyone, I mean everyone—their moms, grandfathers, and fifth cousins twice removed. To make matters worse, they even developed a high school edi- tion. The expansion didn’t bother me until they allowed for the high school Facebook and college Facebook and regular Facebook to become one conglomerate. I personally felt upset and cheated when this occurred. Facebook was created during my senior year in high school and was the holy grail of social networks, or at least I thought it was. The fact that it was only for college stu- dents and a limited number of them, made me feel like being a part of it was “special” and thus would make me “special.” Oh the na'1'veté of youth! Now, Facebook has just opened the door for anybody to en- ter the Facebook world, making it less presti- gious and exciting. Also, maybe l’ve just watched too many “Lifetime” movies, but the idea of total strangers between the ages of 14-100 interact- ing virtually makes me a little nervous. With Facebook stalkers and creepy individuals randomly adding people they don’t know and poking them, one has a right to worry. Stalking brings me to my second issue with Facebook—applications. There are cur- rently 5,500 different applications available to Facebook users. Do you know what I call that many appli- cations? If you said “foolishness,” then you are correct. How in the hot mess is someone supposed to use over 5,000 applications? Some apps, such as the graffiti one, are just nonsense. Seriously, a graffiti application; Facebook isn’t a bridge by the street corner, so there’s no need to be drawing anything on it. I’m judging every person who has over 10, and those will not be positive judgments. (Takes a quick moment of silence to judge all the people with too many darn applications.) However, besides the apps, the bane of my existence is the mini-feed. The mini-feed ap- plication is basically the virtual equivalent to a big-haired small town gossip, telling stories about your life to anyone who will listen. Granted, you can turn off your mini-feed or only set it to report certain profile changes. One could basically say that the mini-feed is a validation system especially for those in college. For example whenever someone becomes a “couple,” the relationship isn’t recognized until you’re together on Facebook. I know this sounds like straight-up fool- ishness, but it’s true. Just the other day, I was confirming that my friend had ended a rela- tionship by looking at their F acebook profile. It’s sad, and I know it. I took a moment to judge myself. To make matters worse, Facebook is now informing you of people’s moods, heritage, and horoscopes. Pretty soon, Facebook will be mapping out a strand of your DNA and reporting your blood type on mini-feed. The future is limitless, but in the case of Facebook, let’s hope not. Facebook is not the end-all be all of hu- manity and shouldn’t be treated as such; it also shouldn’t be used as a personal diary and online scrapbook of every moment you’ve ever had. I mean honestly, no one cares that you slept till noon. There’s no reason to cap- ture that digitally and then make a 15-picture album of it entitled “Sleep Saturday.” And while I’m at it, I advise that people not put pictures of themselves participating in activities that others do in dark alleyways and behind garbage cans. If you are doing some- thing that resulted in Whitney Houston down- fall, Lindsay Lohan’s rehab stay, or Britney looking a hot mess at the VMAs, don’t put it on Facebook. This is not Amsterdam, and no one wants to see all that. We also do not want to read all that, so if you find yourself pouring out your heart in a note, do not send it to your friends. F acebook notes are only fun if they are a mass “thank you,” an enlightening tidbit, or a joke. If your notes result in a tearful episode or a bout of “Oprah” watching, just leave it alone. I want to let you all know that if you find yourself checking your Facebook several times a day or more, receive e-mail notifica- tions for every application, and shake uncon- trollably when you go a full 24 hours without F acebook—you may be an addict. As a member of FA (Facebookers Anon- oymous) I know how hard it can be to kick the habit. But look, I did it, so I know you can too! Despite the fact that Facebook can be a bit intrusive, application-happy, and downright addictive—I still love it. It’s a great way in which I can keep in touch with those random people I haven’t seen since grade school and don’t want to call, or quite frankly even see. It’s wonderful for keeping in touch, if only at a superficial level. »—————- -444 WASHINGTON AND LEE UNIVERSITY V--~—~— THE RING—TUM PHI. MANAGING EDITOR NEWS EDITOR ASST. NEWS EDITOR OPINIONS EDITOR ARTS&LlFE EDITOR SPORTS EDITOR COPY EDITOR ASST. COPY EDITORS CONTRIBUTING WRITERS DESIGN EDITOR DESIGNERS STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER BUSINESS MANAGER DISTRIBUTION MNGR. ADMINISTRATIVE ASST. JACOB GEIGER JESSICA SHAW GRACE WANG STACEY GRIJALVA SACHA RAAB MICHAEL KEENAN CATHERINE CARLOCK WILL DORRANCE ANDY RUBIN KATHIE SCOTT‘ CRIGHTON ALLEN GRACE ANDREWS CODY BEAUCHAMP DANE BOSTON CELESTE CRUZ- CARANDANG KEVIN CORN BRIAN DEVINE MICHELE FARQUHARSON . HANK NATHAN WES O’DELL AMOR NEILL THUPARI ALEXANDRA SKAGGS RUSS WEEMS LARA JORDAN AMY DAWSON VICTORIA TAYLOR LENORA NUNNLEY CHARLES PERSONS STROCK MOORE JULIANNE MIATA MISSION STATEMENT: It is the mission of THE RING—TUM PHI to accurately. truthfully, and thoroughly report news affecting the Washington and Lee community for students. faculty, parents and alumni. Our goal is to look deeper into news affecting campus life and hold leaders accountable. Through our reporting, we aspire to spark discussions that lead to discovering information that prompts change. THE RING—TUM PHI is published Mondays during Guilt fuels diversity initiatives School programs imply non”-white‘stua'ents* aren ’t capable By Cody Beauchamp COLU M NIST I hesitate to write this article. I want to talk about “diversity” at Washington & Lee. I hope to make well-reasoned critiques of the way the school treats diversity; I hope to do this even though I’m a white, straight, Protestant male—the one demographic set that it seems can never be critical concerning diver- sity. I’m not sure l’ll be able to get away with this without being branded a bigot, but hopefully I can pull this 0E. The truth is, W&L has never done diversity well. Over most of our history, we were one of the most white, most Southern, most homogeneous colleges in the world. Sure, John Chavis became the first African-American with a college degree in 1800, and it bore the Washington College name. But Chavis was a hero of the Revolution- ary War, one of the brilliant John Witherspoon’s private students, a genius. He was the exception, not the rule. W&L would not admit another black student until 1966, another undergrad until 1968. The law school did not admit women until 1972, the undergraduate programs until 1985. Foreign students were so odd and noteworthy—until just recentlyethat French alumnus Philippe Labro even wrote a book-tumed movie about an odd-man-out for- eign student, “L 'Etudiant étranger.” Historically, we’re not good at diversity. I think this history of ours might explain the current state of affairs. By current state of affairs, I’m referring to the tenden- cy by students and administrators to go arguably too far in the other direction. After 200+ years of being a white, conservative, male school, it seems like we’re trying to make up for lost time with a plethora of initiatives and an abundance of being overly politically correct. The school’s brass seems to go out of their way to mention how seriously the school is committed to di- versity. The administration has supported numerous initiatives aimed at increasing the presence of minority students and groups in the forefront of our community’s thoughts. They sponsor awareness weeks, special meals in the D-Hall, speakers, etc. I can’t help but wonder if the sum total is that we’re making our non-white students tokens. When you have special programs designed to help non-white students “transition” into life at W&L, I can’t help but think that you’re sending the message that they need help transitioning, that they can’t do so on their own. The same goes for any kind of special event aimed at Oil Exchange & Lube 754 North Lee Hwy. putting minorities into the forefront of the W&L commu- nity. I’ve no problem with minorities being in the fore- front of the W&L community-it’s the “putting” them there part that bothers me. Are we saying that they wouldn’t have been capable of getting their on their own? Perhaps the case-in-point that got me thinking about this would be the election of our latest Homecoming Queen. Quiana McKenzie’s crowning shouldn’t have stirred up even the least bit of controversy, yet it did. Quiana is a perfectly qualified representative of W&L--she’s smart, dedicated to the school, a key player in God-knows-how-many organizations and clubs; an ideal person to recognize with an honor such as Home- coming Queen. Yet, in polite—that is private—circles I’ve heard some people express shock that a black woman was made our Homecoming Queen. In other circles, I’ve heard people exclaim how laud- able it is that she’s championing the cause of diversity by winning the honor. In both cases, I can’t help but laugh a little. Honestly, can’t it just be that Quiana is a great representative and a deserving winner? Why does she have to become a sym- bol for some greater, really rather pointless, struggle to promote diversity at W&L? That’s the way this school must treat anything remark- able a non-white, non-male does, I suppose. After 200+ years of being retrospectively too white, too male, and too homogeneous, we’re feeling guilty. We can’t just applaud our minority students because they’re excellent students; we must applaud them on principle just because they add to our “diversity.” We can’t just applaud cases like Quiana’s winning Homecoming Queen because she’s an exceptionally de- serving person; we’ve got to cheer a little louder because she happens to be a deserving black, female person. Personally, I’m just hoping I can live to see the day when we don’t need to have special programs for mul- ticultural students, where we don’t need to have admin- istrators swear to the high heavens we’re committed to diversity. ' I’m hoping I see another non-white Homecoming Queen crowned when no one really cares what color her skin is, or what religion she follows, or where she’s from. I’m hoping that in a few years, maybe decades if needed, we can quit trying to push diversity, and instead just watch it happen naturally. I’m hoping, in short, for the day when Washington and Lee does diversity right. Join the hundreds of parents who et the Phi ‘ a home each week. To subscribe, send your name, address and a check for $35 to the Phi is ofiice. The cost for a two year subscription is $ 75. the undergraduate school year. THE RING—TUM PHI is a member of The Media Board, which can be reached at mediaboard@wlu.edu, but is otherwise lndependent.THE RING—TUM PHI welcomes all letters. We reserve the right to edit submissions for content and length. Letters and advertising do not necessarily reflect the opinion of THE RING—TUM PHI staff. This newspaper observes current court definitions of UNIVERSITY COMMONS ROOM 341 WASHINGTON AND LEE UNIVERSITY LEXINGTON, VIRGINIA 24450 TELEPHONE: (540) 458-4060 ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION RATE $45 libel and obscenity. THE RING—TUM PHI FAX: (540) 458-4059 EMAIL: PHl@WLU.EDU W&L’s arrogant babies How should we describe recent student ac- tions on the Traveller sober ride system? Embarrassing comes to mind. So does ap- palling. How could W&L students and alumni call one driver a racial slur and call a student driver a b—ch? Our actions are so astonishing that they almost defy words. We absolutely love to talk about Lee’s code of gentlemanly—and lady-like—conduct. But our actions increasingly make that fine talk look like point- less drivel. Sure, it’s easy to be a gentle- man or lady on the Hill. But out at Windfall Hill, we live by another standard. Parents, aren’t you thrilled to see how your children act away from home? This isn’t a new problem. Traveller driv- ers have been reporting harassment by students since last year. You can hardly blame one driver for wanting to be paid before he let students off his bus. His actions were inexcusable but no worse than the actions of W&L’s students. We’re not ladies and gentlemen. We’re ar- rogant college kids with a major sense of en- titlement. “But wait!” you say. “These problems are just the actions of a small majority.” That might be true, but this “small major- ity” has certainly been busy in the last year. And we’ve heard nothing from the majority of students. There have been no protests by students, no calls for accountability. Nothing. I’m sure most students are genuinely upset by the behavior. And most are courteous, re- & fl SE 9 ‘E Lexington Animal Hospital Welcomes You and Your Pet!! spectful riders on Traveller. But this silence needs to stop. When the African-American driver asked other students to help identify the one who yelled at him, nobody spoke up. What a bunch of cowards we are. If normal students won’t take action when their peers act like arrogant jerks, it’s time for student government to get involved. Traveller drivers—both students and Goff employees—should turn to the SJC for assis- tance. Next time a student uses the N-word on Traveller, the SJC should fine the student, ban him from Traveller and even consider a sus- pension. When a call for civil conduct can’t get re- sults, maybe punishments will. Normally we’re strong advocates of free speech, but no student has a right to use that sort of language. Students have famously short memories. None of them have been on campus long enough to remember the DUls and alcohol-re- lated traffic deaths that plagued W&L just 5-10 years ago. If this keeps up, Traveller’s student driv- ers will have no reason to keep working. Who wants to be yelled at all night? And if the Traveller system collapses, it’s just a matter of time before a drunk student dies while trying to drive on a winding, coun- try road. Is this what drunk, impatient W&L students want? To see Traveller shut down? How many times do we need to be told that this is not a taxi system? The purpose is to get students home safely, not whisk you around Rockbridge County free of charge. These actions make us embarrassed to call ourselves Washington and Lee students. Spring Break 2008. Sell Trips, Earn Cash and Go Free- Call for group discounts. Best Deals Guaranteed! 20% q[f your first visit wit/i this ad New clients only/limit one per visit. Expires 06/30/2008 Dr. Sheryl H. Carls 28 Bones Place Lexington, VA 540-463-2715 Jannaica, Cancun, Acapulco, Baharnas, S- Padre, Florida. Across from Tractor Supply 540-463-5020 Save $1.00 — Show W&L ID 800-648-4949 or www-ststrave|-corn. OCR::/Vol_111/WLURG39_RTP_20071025/WLURG39_RTP_20071025_006.2.txt W6 - iTl'|E RlN(Vi-TUM PHI 0 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 25,2007 arts&life aner’s dedication to W&L honored Doris Bane book signing of Family and Honor I. iiversity family BOOK COVER COURTESY OF DORIS BANE Above: Well-known and loved W&L l'raffic Coordinator and Security Guard Thomas Bane in front of the Colonnade. Affec- ttonately called “Baner,” he has ‘vnpacted the lives of students and parents for over 30 years. Right: Doris Bane, wife of Thomas and author of “Family and Honor.” She wrote the book to honor her hus- band’s, as well as other faculty and staff's, dedication to the university and its students. She will be signing books in the Commons on Friday from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. and Saturday from 11:00 to 2:00 p.m. By Celeste Cruz-carandang 8 TA F F W R I TE R The students of Washington and Lee University insist that our campus has something more than the average college campus. We have more history, more prestige, but most of all, a greater sense of welcoming than any other college community. However, at times we fail to realize that this ambience of acceptance is not in- herent within these antebellum columns. In fact, it is the work of those who walk up and down the Colonnade, in front of Lee Chapel, and into the Commons. To put it simply, each individual at W&L strives to make this university what it truly is: a family. This “family thing” is something that grows within every student and faculty member who walks through this place. Yet, even within our family, there are those who nurture and enrich our lives to epic dimensions. We must regard them as more than just a cornerstone for this tradi- tion, but love them as the support system for this family. W&L Trafiic Coordina- tor and Security Guard Thomas “Baner” Bane has been this foundation for what he called “the family thing at Washington and Lee.” For over three decades, he has wel- comed freshmen and their parents to this seemingly daunting campus and worked endlessly to quell the fears of both parent and child. Battling through the worry and sorrow of all family members present on move-in day, Baner fought to comfort and usher in a sense of both acceptance and calm with his words. Oftentimes, his mere presence successfully eased the sor- row of parting and brought to light the sweeter aspects of embarking on a new educational life. His wife, Doris Bane, wishes to honor both Baner and the students he inspires through a book about her husband. While “Family and Honor” took only a year to write, Bane insists the urge to write this book has lasted for “over thirty years.” However, she wishes her readers to note that this book does notpaint her husband as a saint or legendary figure. “This isn’t a brag book about Baner,” Bane said. “It’s to honor him and to hon- or the students and alumni we’ve shared memories with.” Baner never felt the need for the rec- ognition of his extraordinary kindness. “To him, there was no great praise or acknowledgement needed,” Bane wrote. “He was just fulfilling a promise he made to thousands of parents as they prepare to leave campus after freshman move- in weekend—‘Ya’ll go home now, your son or daughter will be just fine here, cause they’re part of our family now at W&L.”’ To the luck and surprise of genera- tions of students, Baner did all he could to uphold and honor this promise. It is through his actions, rather than his words (also known as“Banerisms)” that earn him legendary status. “My desire is to honor Baner as he has not only spoken of this family thing at Washington and Lee, but has lived it as he interacts with the students, parents, “This isn ’t a brag book about Baner. Its to honor him and to honor the stu- dents and alumni we ’ve shared memories with. ” Dorls Bane, author of Family and Honor alunmi, faculty and staff,” Bane explains. Indeed, the inspiration for the book stemmed from observing this interaction her husband had with the W&L students. Last spring, the Phi Kappa Sigma fra- ternity invited the Banes to a dinner they were hosting the night before the upcom- ing graduation ceremonies. During the meal, they awarded Baner lifetime mem- bership into their fraternity, officially making this security guard their brother. The plaque he received read, “Baner is hereby awarded the distinction of life- time membership in Phi Kappa Sigma— In recognition of his steadfast protection, guidance, support and most of all, for showing us by friendship the true mean- ing of the Washington and Lee Family.” During the conversations following her husband’s acceptance of the award, the emotional reactions of the students inspired her to write this book. The book includes stories of how Baner strives to protect students and how greatly the stu- dents love him for his efforts. The W&L community has supported Bane in her endeavor. “The response from the alumni has been phenomenal; not so much as in the number of responses I received, but in the depth of emotion and sincerity as to how their college years at Washington and Lee were enhanced by Baner,” Bane ’ says. Any letter she has received from a student has been “...from the heart,” Bane observes. Yet what else would we expect from this family? As trite as it may sound, Ba- ner has impacted the lives and touched the hearts of many who venture through these red brick buildings. It is only appro- priate that the W&L family gives back a little bit of the heart Baner so willingly offered. After printing over 3,000 copies, Mrs. Bane will not exactly be destitute. Yet, after being asked what all of that men- ey is going towards, Mrs. Bane remains humble and true to her husband. “I’m going to pay off the original $10,000 loan to get the book published. .. so the book will be debt free,” Bane promises. “If I didn’t make another dime, it would be okay. Just to see Baner read the emails and letters...and seeing them on the pages of “Family and Honor”. . .is worth millions of dollars to me.” The book signing will be held in Elrod Commons the Friday and Saturday of Parents’ Weekend. On Friday, Mrs. Bane will be signing books from 1:00 un- til 4:O0 and again on Saturday from 1 1 :00 until 2:00 that afternoon. Those who are unable to attend the signing or cannot obtain a copy of the book should feel free to email Mrs. Bane at banerandi@yahoo.com. Instead of the traditional refreshments for a book signing, Mrs. Bane will hand out a complimentary packet of tissues with each copy of the book because, as she maintains, “You’re going to need it!” Overall, the book’s title, “Family and Honor,” speaks volumes of the intentions and contents of this book. It will speak to the tradition of community within this university and the honor each student or faculty and staff member feels in uphold- ing it. However, Mrs. Bane’s book goes one step further and connects the two: her purpose is to honor this “family thing” for which her husband puts his life on the line. “This book will. . .honor the many students who have walked through the Colonnade on the W & L campus that is so rich in tradition, goals and honor, that does not stop as they walk across the stage to get their diploma, but is carried with them for the rest of their lives.” An Alternative Program Get experience while a student with Teach Kentucky By Michele Farquharson smrr wrmrn Teach Kentucky is a program established in the City ot’L»’ uisville to bring a young. new, invigorate- ing set ofteachcrs to Kentucky’s public schools in order to revitalize the teaching community. While Teach Kentucky is similar to Teach for America, it ‘is a localized program that provides a more consis- . rent support group for the teachers. Those selected for the program move to Kentucky and go through me University of Louisville’s alternative teaching program while committing two years to teaching in ‘heir public school system. They will also be given a family in Louisville to mentor them throughout their two years in Louisville. Joe Franzen graduated from W&L in 2006 as the recipient of the Sally G. Ball Award. The Ball .-‘award is a $4,000 salary stipend that goes to a col- I ge graduate who shows promise in the teaching ill l(l education fields. Franzen applied for Teach for America and was rejected. Feeling rather down, he stumbled on the Teach Kentucky program and took another chance, applied, and was accepted. When he went to Kentucky, it was not what he ex- pected. Instead of a formal interview like he had when applying for Teach for America, there was a barbeque, beer, and a great discussion of teach- ing philosophies between the other applicants and teachers involved in the program. Enthralled with this new environment, Franzen packed his bags and moved to Kentucky. As he had never been in charge of a class before, he spent most of his first day at Shelby West Middle School talking about ice cream to get to know the kids. While the first few months were rough and his teaching plans from his summer graduate courses at University of Louisville had been thrown out, F ranzen’s creativity and dynamic personality helped him connect and build lasting relationships with his students. His biggest piece of advice to those going into one of these teaching programs is to fund an opportunity to teach while still a student. in order to build up teaching experience. Even though the challenges of teaching were difficult, the diversity of the student body, both ethnically and socioeconomieally, proved to be the largest obstacle. Trying to challenge children at dif- ferent academic levels in a class size of thirty kept Franzen busy day and night, planning and updat- ing his curriculum and lesson plans. Throughout these ordeals. the teachers in the Teach Kentucky program were there to support him. Franzen described the Teach Kentucky program as an oppor- tunity to be placed in an area where he was needed and chal- lenged. It has placed him on a fast track to leadership posi- tions within his new school... ” Franzen described the Teach Kentucky program as an opportunity to be placed in an area where he was needed and challenged. It has placed him on a fast track to leadership positions within his new school, and provided him with a network of teach- ers and contacts in the Louisville area. At the end of next year, he will receive a teaching certification and a masters in teaching. The Teach Kentucky program needs teachers in all subjects. If you are interested, more information and the application can be found at http://www.teachkentucky.com/de- fault.aspx. By Michele Farquharson sr/arr wamzn Are you a creative or dynamic person? Do you like helping kids? Are you interested in pursuing a career in teaching or education? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you should learn about the organization Teach for America. Teach for America is an organization that works to eliminate educational inequality within schools. Studies show that children who grow up in poor socioeconomic households are nearly three grade levels behind children who are raised in wealthier socioeconomic households. According to Joanna Perini, a graduate of W&L and of the Teach for America program, “The goal is to get highly motivated young teachers into classrooms where [they] are desperately needed with the hope that these teachers, alter their two years, will either stay in the classroom or will go on to another career where they can impact the American educational system.” Joanna taught at a school in New Mexico for two years and is currently attending law school at Northwestern University. Last summer she worked on special education legal issues with a le- gal non-profit organization in Chicago. While she taught in New Mexico, she had to take nine credits per year towards a masters in special education so that she could maintain her teaching license. Other states have different requirements while students are in the program, but in most cases, the partici- pants must be working on a masters in education, teaching, etc., as well as working towards their teaching certification. If you are accepted into the program, you are expected to commit two years after graduation from college to the program. For a short period of time immediately following graduation, you go to the site where you will be teaching in order to get settled in. Then, you go to the Teach for America institution to receive five weeks of training, and then back to the site to begin teaching. For this first summer, you may get one to two weeks off, but in most cases, the first summer is committed-to the program as well. Afler that, you are on a nor- mal teacher’s schedule, and after the second year of teaching, it is your decision to either leave your placement or to stay. Another W&L graduate, Nazo Burgy, is in his second year of teaching second grade in Mi- ami (Little Haiti). He describes it as “a constant time commitment. There isn’t a minute in my day when I’m not thinking about my students, what I’m doing the next day, or how to better serve them...you’re leaving a civic-minded lifestyle at all times.” Nazo is planning on getting his mas- ters in educational leadership and then opening up his own charter school. Ansel Sanders, yet an- other W&L graduate who went into the Teach for America program, is currently a vice principal in a public middle school in Greenville, SC. He taught in Baltimore, MD for three years while attending Johns Hopkins and working towards his certifica- tion. When asked about his plans for the future, Ansel replied, “I will be in education as a career. My experience with Teach for America galvanized this desire. I would like to continue on the path to school leadership and be a principal.” Teach for America provides an opportunity for students interested in education to gain experience in urban and rural public schools, while helping close the achievement gap between children grow- ing up in various socio-economic situations. An- sel described the desired applicant as “the type of student who is passionate and committed to en- deavors and goals; someone who is dynamic and strong-willed; someone who will be able to keep a perspective when times get rough during their experience and commit themselves 110% while in the program. Lots of folks at W&L fit this descrip- tion and I hope many, many students apply.” If you are interested in this program, Steve De- Man is in charge of recruiting at W&L. His email is: stephen.deman@teachforamerica.org. More information and the application can be found at www.teachforamerica.org. Interested in Teaching? Help disadvantaged children with Teach for America o 2 r‘; .-.- OCR::/Vol_111/WLURG39_RTP_20071025/WLURG39_RTP_20071025_007.2.txt THURSDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2007 THE RING-TUM PHI 0 7 sports Jackson victory over D-I VMI By Russ Weems STAFF WRITER Last Friday, October 19, the .men’s lacrosse team took on Vir- ginia Military Institute in the 21st annual Lee-Jackson Classic and came home with a 17-14 victory This tradition started in 1988 and is one of the longest running annual events in college lacrosse today. It is also one of the few Di- vision 1 versus Division 111 games. Despite the difference in divisions, the game is always competitive and intense. The Generals had won two straight against the Keydet’s coming into Friday’s game. Due to scheduling issues, this year’s .match-up marks the first time this event has been played during the fall off-season. The game is usu- ally played in April during the reg- ular season. The players say this gives this Crosstown rivalry extra emphasis. It also allows the Gen- erals to give themselves a real test in the fall. The 17 goals by the Generals in the high-scoring affair topped last year’s high mark of 14 against Ro- anoke. It is the most goals scored in a game by the Generals since .they put up 17 against York two years ago. Early in the game, VMI scored first and at one point led 3-1, but W&L recovered and led by a score of 5-3 at the end of the first quar- ter. The second quarter was played evenly, leaving the halftime score 7-5. The Generals came out fired up in the third quarter and domi- nated. They outscored the Key- dets 7-3 with contributions from ‘ 6 different players including one by senior Will Englehart with one second left to cap off the quarter. From the end of the third quarter to the beginning of the fourth, the Generals went on their third scor- ing streak of 4 or more. VMI came back strongly in the last quarter when the Generals took out some of their starters, but in the end W&L stayed in control and came out on top. The Generals got contribu- tions from all around in their third straight victory over VMI. The strong offensive performance was led by senior captain Ned Rider with 3 goals and 4 assists. He won the Fallon award for most valuable player on W&L in the Lee-Jack- son Classic. The award has been awarded annually since 1996 and is named after former Washington and Lee football coach and la- crosse official Gary Fallon. Englehart (4 goals), sophomore Will Keigler (2 goals, 4 assists), and sophomore Deets Hoffman (2 goals and an assist) provided other strong performances. Junior Sel- don Clarke won 22 of 26 face-offs including 9 of 10 in the Generals’ dominant third quarter. The de- fense was lead by senior captain Spotty Robins. With this win, the Generals are looking forward to the sea- son. The team is mature with six seniors. 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