Senior class gift breaks record - page 3 Exclusive interview with James Comey (’82) - page 12 Volume 5 An independent The Virginia publication at the College Special Issue of William and Mary. August 26, 2009 Informer 2008 Collegiate Network Established 2005 Paper of the Year www.VAInformer.com ‘Three’ person law may become ‘four’ One planning commission member wants it to be ‘two’

Michael Young will hold a public hearing on September 23 at Assistant Features Editor 4pm to solicit comment from the community. On August 19 the planning commission ini- The so-called “three-person rule” has been tially discussed the proposal. Of the fi ve com- one of the most prominent points of conten- mission members present none were as strident tion between the campus community and the in their opposition to the changes as William city of Williamsburg in recent years. Three Kafes. Mr. Kafes said “we should talk about years ago it was discovered that students were a decrease too,” noting that he would consider facing eviction from houses due to the City’s it reasonable to limit the number of unrelated use of the Student Directory to locate those individuals allowed to live in a house to two. students in violation. An Informer investiga- “Anything goes under the three person rule,” tion led to the discontinuation of this tactic by Mr. Kafes said, “you can live in a garage.” Oth- prompting a change to the directory’s privacy er members of the commission were more policy. reserved in their initial statements. Jim Joseph Over the summer the city has been mulling told other members that he was concerned that changes to the rule to allow four unrelated peo- a public hearing on the proposal would dredge ple to live in a house. The proposal contains up old wounds between students and non- numerous restrictions, mandating that there be student residents. “We [could] have someone Courtesy of Govenor’s Inn at least four bedrooms, two bathrooms, enough stand up like four years ago and say ‘students College vacation? Although relatively far from campus, rooms at the Governor’s parking for residents, and that trash an recycling are a cancer’” Mr. Joseph said. Inn for a full semester are around a full $600 cheaper than on campus. bins be contained in an enclosure. Permission Chairman of the planning commission to house four persons in a house would be ac- Douglas Pons recommended that the city take quired through an application and an $800 fee. into consideration the number of houses that Hotel used by Reslife to Contingent on receiving permission is agree- could be affected. Member Elaine McBeth ment to allow the house to be inspected once a suggested that following a public hearing on year and consent to not allow subletting. meet housing demands City Council referred the proposed changes HOUSING LAW MAY CHANGE to Williamsburg’s planning commission, which continued on page four Will Clements According to Residence Life’s web- Editor in Chief - VIO site, this inovation comes as students have had increading diffi cultly fi nd- New term brings new faces to William and Mary has found a new ing on-campus housing. Hundreds way to handle the high demand for of students are “bumped” from the students opting to live on campus for on-campus housing lottery each year. administrative leadership the 2009-2010 year. The Governor’s Residence Life says, “In response to Inn located by the train station on the demand for on campus housing or Andrew Blasi Michael Powell (’85) as Henry St. will house a small number housing that is close to campus, the Editor at Large the College’s next rec- of students. Pricing for these rooms College has arranged with a local ho- tor. The rector serves starts at $1920.00 per semester for tel to offer a small number of rooms Less than one year following Taylor Reve- as chair of the Board of double occupancy and $2400.00 per to William and Mary students.” ley’s formal appointment as the 27th president Visitors and is the most semester for single occupancy, a much Although there are available dorms of William and Mary, the College will begin visible representative on better deal than on campus housing not currently being used by the Col- this academic year with new faces at four se- campus of the oversight that can cost as much as $643 dollars lege, notably the Dillard Complex nior administrative posts. body, attending numer- more for the same occupancy rates. on Ironbound road, the College has Serving as interim vice president for Stu- ous College functions Weekly linen service is also included chosen this arraignment, presum- dent Affairs since the retirement of Sam alongside the president. at no charge for students, a perk that ably due to the remote location and Sadler (’64, M.Ed. ’71) in June 2008, Virginia REVELEY Wolf is the former vice no other on campus housing option unpopularity of the Dillard dorms. Ambler (’88, Ph.D. ’06) was named vice presi- chairman and chief fi - offers. dent for Student Affairs last May. She was one nancial offi cer of Norfolk Southern Corpo- of four fi nalists recommended to President ration, one of the largest railway companies Reveley in the spring by in the United States, and was fi rst appointed College earns promising rankings a national search com- to the Board of Visitors in 2003. Wolf suc- mittee chaired by Pro- ceeds Michael Powell, who served as William Kirk Vernegaard ties ranked by US News . fessor Clay Clemens. and Mary’s rector for three years and was the News Editor In the past few years, the US News rank- Ambler’s selection from fi rst African American to serve in that posi- ing has stayed consistently in the low 30’s among the fi nalists was tion in the College’s history. Michael Powell The College of William and Mary con- despite a fi nancial resources rating of 88 th . widely anticipated by was the chairman of the Federal Communica- tinues to perform well in the US News This is the lowest resources ranking of the campus communi- tions Commission (FCC) from 2001 to 2005 annual ranking of elite colleges. The rank- any elite institution in the top 50 – a metric ty, as she has worked in and is the son of former Secretary of State ings were released on August 20 and came symbolic of The College’s “public” status. the College’s Division Colin Powell. shortly after equally positive reviews by US News has, however, been criticized in of Student Affairs since AMBLER Last March, it was announced that Michael The Princeton Review and Forbes . The Col- the past for using statistical models biased 1991. During that time, Halleran will serve as the College’s fi fth pro- lege stands 33 rd overall among all public of public institutions. Top publics such as Ambler served as assistant to Sam Sadler from vost. As provost, Halleran will be responsible and private universities and 6 th among all The University of California at Berkeley 1991 to 2001 and assistant vice president for for all academic budgets, academic and re- public institutions, according to US News . Student Affairs from 2001 to 2008. Forbes ranked William and Mary 48 th , and COLLEGE UP IN RANKINGS In April, the College’s Board of Visitors ADMINISTRATION CHANGES highest among traditional public universi- continued on page four elected Henry Wolf (’64, J.D. ’66) to succeed continued on page four CONTENTS Want to get every issue of The Informer in the mail? News...... 2 Williamsburg rolls out trolley service E-mail [email protected] with your name and Features...... 5 address, and we will send you an order form and your fi rst Page 6 issue FREE! Arts & Culture...... 7 Opinion...... 10 Virginia Page 2 InformerThe August 26, 2009 News Reckless spending, controversy addressed by the Student Assembly A re-cap of last year’s Student Assembly news

Ian Kirkpatrick The SA also lead Assistant News Editor - Student Assembly student protest against General As- The 2008-2009 academic year was sembly consider- an eventful one for the Student As- ation of increasing sembly. The year started with a bang the in state student when popular former Student Assem- ratio, and the 711 bly President Zach Pilchen, then serv- Richmond Road ing as Vice President, resigned from controversy. In the the SA. The SA went on to pass many latter William & pieces of legislation and held a very Mary professor Ruth engaging spring time election. Griffi oen kept de- Among the legislation passed last tailed logs of infor- year was a 2 dollar decrease in the stu- mation that would dent activities fee (which had typically have removed four been experiencing annual increases), students from the and SA funding for a second golf cart property who were for service fraternity Alpha Phi Ome- living in violation of ga (APO). the infamous three Legislation also paid for a recycling person rule. The ev- initiative, and $20,000 was spent on idence against them AED’s to be located around campus. was based on park- Perhaps the biggest news concerning ing activity at the the SA was Sara Rojas (’09) and Ryan house. There were Brianna May Ruzic (JD ’11) upset victory against also accusations that Duties debated: Horacio Carreño (’09) and Michael the said professor Senators were more likely to be found arguing about minor variations in wording, rather Douglass (’11) in the spring election. had trespassed, and than big-ticket expenses last year. The Rojas-Ruzic victory was quite the SA considered bringing legal action uphill battle. They have also been lead to the selection of Taylor Reveley a surprise- the ticket was rescued an against the said professor, with Matt criticized for squandering money on as president of the College. Mr. Rev- hour before the March 18th deadline, Pinsker (’09) proposing legislation to events with almost no student turn out eley served as interim president after when Rojas’s original vice presidential hire a private investigator to collect evi- (like a Student-Police tailgate at 10am Gene Nichol’s abrupt resignation, but candidate withdrew, the spot later be- dence against Ms. Girffi oen. on a Saturday) or the $9000 spent on he was also a contender in the initial ing fi lled with Mr. Ruzic. Mr. Carreño The SA also weathered a lot of agenda books- and such spending is national search that chose Nichol. and Mr. Douglass appeared to be the criticism. Retired President of Stu- often approved without any signifi cant When the Rector, Michael Powell re- stronger candidates but were appar- dent Affairs Sam Sadler, described it deliberation. ceived the letter he said it “looked like ently defeated by what Election Com- as an “elite club.” Many Senators are The SA also experienced a big em- a hoax-” it was not signed by any of mission Chair Matt Beato (’09) noted involved in Greek life and are out-of- barrassment when it sent a letter to the SA senators, did not have a letter as increased voter participation by grad state students. Re-election is almost the Board of Visitors complaining head, and was sent some time after Mr. school students. a guarantee; challengers face a steep about the undemocratic process that Reveley’s approval.

Teach For America recognizes Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Obama Briefl y... W&M as a top contributor on August 12. The Medal is the United States’ high- est civilian honor. O’Connor, the fi rst woman to serve Compiled by Michael Watson, Editor at Large as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court, was ap- Teach For America announced the schools that pointed in 1981 and served until 2006. In retirement, Informer alumnus’ investigation placed the most graduates in the 2009 Teaching Job she has served as a member of the Iraq Study Group Corps program, with the College placing seventh and on the Board of Trustees of the National Consti- featured on FOX News among medium-size (3000-9999 students) schools. Of tution Center as well as College Chancellor. Former Editor-in-Chief of this newspaper Joe Lup- the Class of 2009, 36 graduates took places with Teach pino-Esposito (’08) discovered that NBC was selling For America. In all, the program took on 4100 new W&M Website Team Honored t-shirts featuring the image of President Obama with teachers this year from 550 colleges. William and Mary the slogan “Yes we did” prominently. Mr. Luppino- also placed fi fth among medium-sized schools in pro- The College’s redesigned website was recognized Esposito posted the information on his blog with the ducing Peace Corps volunteers, with 46 undergraduate at the 2009 Web Communications Conference. claim that the merchandise was evidence of a political alumni currently serving. EduStyle, a web design gallery specializing in higher bias in NBC News and its subsidiary MSNBC, which is education, gave the awards. The College’s site and popularly considered more favorable to liberal causes. O’Connor receives Medal team were nominated for Best Redesign, Best Over- After other conservative blogs reported the existence all Website, and Best Use of Photography, taking of the merchandise, FOX News, which is considered of Freedom home the judges’ honors in the Redesign category more favorable to conservative causes, reported the College Chancellor and retired Supreme Court Jus- and the People’s Choice award in that and the Best story, with a brief mention on The O’Reilly Factor. tice Sandra Day O’Connor was presented with the Use of Photography category.

The Virginia Photography/Graphics Staff Editorial Board Alec McKinley, Photography Editor Steven Nelson, Editor in Chief Brianna May • Shep Walker Informer Sarah Nadler, Managing Editor Established 2005 Bert Mueller, Executive Editor Copy Staff Will Clements, Editor in Chief, Online Edition Meredith Wachs, Copy Chief Founders Seema Mahanian • Steve Roney Joe Luppino-Esposito & Amanda J. Yasenchak Kirk Vernegaard, News Editor Thomas Dickens • Stefanie Muldrow Brittany Lane, Features Editor April 22, 2009 Jordan Bloom, Arts & Culture Editor Layout Staff Alexander Powell, Opinion Editor Sam McVane, Layout Editor Volume 4 Issue 12 Ariel Ittah, Assistant Layout Editor Assistant Editors Kris Vogel The Virginia Informer Eric Ames • Ian Kirkpatrick Business Staff CSU 7056, P.O. Box 8793 Hart Moore • Michael Young Gunnar Gregory, Business Editor Williamsburg, VA 23186 Editors at Large Brandon Bleakley, Assistant Business Editor [email protected] Andrew Blasi • Julia Riesenber • Michael Watson Mathias Jamora www.VAInformer.com Outreach Staff The Virginia Informer is produced by students at the College of William and Mary. The Mission Statement Morgan Linski, Director opinions expressed in articles, photos, cartoons, or ads are those of the writer(s) or sponsor(s). The Virginia Informer is an independent, non-partisan, student run publica- This paper is produced for the benefi t of students at the College and is available at no cost tion devoted to reporting the news to the William and Mary community. Staff Writers for members of the greater Williamsburg community. However, copies should be taken only We exist to provide an alternative to school sponsored news sources. We Bryan Alphin • Jeff Dailey • Jack Evans if they are meant to be read and enjoyed. In the event an individual or group prevents these do not, and never will, receive any fi nancial support from the College of Alex Guiliano • Braum Katz • Boris Kiselov • Megan Locke • Patrick copies from being enjoyed by others, the cost to that individual or group will be $15 per copy. William and Mary. We will not shy away from controversy or be afraid Macaluso • Phillip Mariscal • Jennifer Souers • Laura Visochek Letters to the editor are welcome and can be submitted via e-mail or mail. to challenge the norm. We strive to inform and engage our readers via responsible journalism and in-depth reporting, while fostering and giving voice to opinions that are often shut out by the campus establishment. Virginia The Page Informer news April 26, 2009 3 Record-breaking Senior class gift leaves high expectations for 2010

Brittany Lane fear an unsuccessful Features Editor campaign, students seized the vision What began with a slow initial level of support of giving back and culminated in a booming success. The Class of erased any worries 2009 concluded the year with 76% class participa- by year’s end . tion in their yearlong campaign, breaking the for- “We wanted to en- mer record, set in 2001, by 3%. Seniors dedicated courage our seniors over $156,000 in gifts and pledges for the College and ultimately make this past academic year. a strong statement Beginning in the fall, each senior class works to the College that with the College’s Development Office to encour- the Class of 2009 age seniors to participate in this program, which was thankful for the deepens the tradition of giving back to the Col- education received lege. A committee of seniors, led by the Senior and would continue Class officers, runs the program, brainstorming in some way to give and organizing events and fundraisers, such as back,” said Mr. Dua. the popular Wine & Cheese event. Publicity for Grateful students, the program remains the foremost goal all year. a dedicated com- Seniors have the choice to make a monetary do- mittee, and a little nation or future pledge to any program or depart- luck were the key ment of their choice. ingredients to a suc- Donations support a variety of programs, such cessful Senior Class as scholarship funds for students, sports teams, Gift. Courtesy of ChristianAmonson.com campus organizations, faculty research funds, At the end of last The Presidential treatment: and campus facilities. The vital support from year, the Class of Members of the Senior Class Gift committee pose with these eventual alums helps attract and support 2009 received an President Reveley. top-notch students and accomplished faculty. engraved cipher representing the percentage of at the end, is going to carry over,” and propel the Furthermore, the commitment to the program those who donated or pledged support on a stone efforts of the upcoming year. “We certainly have propels the maintenance and construction of the on the Senior Walk. This path is located outside big shoes to fill,” said Wallace. College’s facilities, such as Swem Library, the In- of Tucker Hall. The underlying mission of the Senior Class tegrated Science Center, and the newly completed Mr. Dua stated that he and the Senior Class Gift Gift rests on the notion that graduates hope that Mason School of Business’s Alan B. Miller Hall. committee sought to achieve 80% participation younger students and future members of the In the beginning of last year, some expressed with $100,000 in future pledges. While class in- Tribe will experience the same benefits they re- concern that support was too low. The Informer re- volvement fell just short of that goal, the broken ceived during their journey at the College. In the ported that participation by early spring was well record still attests to the drive of students at the end, the goal relies on the seniors to fulfill their below expectations. However, Kevin Dua, former College of William and Mary. Senior Class Presi- pledges and continue to support what they loved Class of 2009 president, maintains that “every Se- dent Alyssa Wallace (‘10) believes that “the mo- about their unique experiences at the College. nior Class Gift experiences a common trend of mentum that an early good start, sluggish middle and then a fi- last year cre- nal push.” While the economy prompted many to ated, especially Campus police to re-sell confi scated student bikes

Hart Moore do hold a confiscated bike Assistant News Editor auction every fall for those bikes which remain un- As is customary, William and claimed. These bikes typically Mary Police conducted a sum- go for a relatively inexpensive mer roundup of all unregistered rate, some selling in the ballpark bikes on campus. If your bike of $5, which allows for relative- was not specifically registered ly inexpensive owner retrieval. for the 2008 – 2009 school year, Moreover, this is an excellent it is likely in the custody of opportunity to buy a bike for the Campus Police. semester. Courtesy of Kevin Dua To retrieve a confiscated bike, Proceeds from the bike auc- New milestone: The class of 2009 broke previous record giving despite deep recession. 76% the owner must provide proof tion are typically donated to a participated, donating over $156,000. The participation percentage broke the former record by 3%. of ownership to the William and number of children’s charity Mary Police. This amounts to groups, so students can rest as- either a printed receipt for your sured that their money is going bike, or a receipt for the lock to a worthwhile cause. This or helmet which may have been year’s bike auction will be held found with your bike. Unfortu- on Saturday, September 26, and nately, many owners may have those interested are encouraged thrown their receipts out years to call the Campus Police Dis- ago. However, Campus Police patch Office at (757)-221-4596.

File Photo Finders keepers: WMPD confi scated student bicycles remaining on campus following Spring semester. Virginia Page The 4 August 26, 2009 Informer COLLEGE UP IN RANKINGS: HOUSING LAW MAY CHANGE: The Princeton Review, others give W&M higher Three person rule may become four person continued from page one ratings than prior years the proposal there should be more contentious as it was important. continued from page one US News has annually found fault in the Col- work sessions to further evaluate pos- During the past academic year there lege’s weak endowment and peer fi nancial stand- sible changes to the law. Following was a City-appointed focus group and The University of Virginia ranked 21 st and 24 th ing, statistics which, if improved, could solidify the the discussion the commission sched- comprised of students, landlords, respectively. Some college presidents who have College as a top 25 institution. William and Mary’s uled a public hearing for September college administrators, and local resi- public ally derided the rankings claim to be pun- rank in US News also suffered a slide in recent 23, though Mr. Kafes made clear his dents. Parties are unable to budge on ished in the rankings. Juniata College President, years, a trend most visible during the tenure of ex- opposition to advertising the hearing issues concerning disclosure of stu- Thomas Kepple, even opined that to boost an in- president Gene Nichol. Although resources are as addressing a proposal, adamantly dent residences and other threats to stitution’s rating, college presidents must “summer slim, Forbes ’ rankings recognized William and Mary stating that the possible changes were student privacy, though some mem- in the Hamptons.” This is where US News Pub- as a “best value.” “not a proposal.” bers of the community, such as for- lisher Mort Zuckerman allegedly vacations. The Princeton Review ’s survey-based method of The current law states that no mer City Council candidate Terrance The rankings have clearly established that in institutional evaluation allows a textured glance more than three unrelated individu- Whele, took the moderate position order for William and Mary to eclipse its ranking into our talented and “quirky” student body. The als may live in any residence. This is of letting the number of residents be in the low thirties, further steps must be taken by report encapsulates the nuances of our quaint ex- cost prohibitive to students who are dependent on the number of rooms the College to improve its fi nancial fortitude. The istence in historic Colonial Williamsburg. One stu- bumped when the College does not in the house. Virginia Informer has explored the potential benefi ts dent notes that “dumb people stand out.” Another have enough rooms available. Many Michael Douglass, president of the of privatizing William and Mary, as has President concedes that the food is “greasy and not very students are unable to afford hous- campus group Students for a Better Reveley. good.” One person even argues that “a cappella ing close to campus with only three Williamsburg (SBW), believes that The College nonetheless earned laudable marks groups are more popular on campus than sports roommates, so they illegally add a the proposed changes are only a cos- for quality of undergraduate teaching. William and teams.” fourth or fi fth. This was the case metic change and do almost nothing Mary ranked sixth amidst a swath of ivies and The College’s “draconian” measures towards when the students living at 711 Rich- to improve the rights of students. Mr. others who “were singled out most often when drinking are highlighted several times in the report. mond Road last year, who were fi ned Douglass says that the defi nition of a experts were asked to identify schools where fac- The Princeton Review has given the College demon- and some of whom were forced to bedroom in the bill is not clear, and ulty has an unusual commitment to undergraduate strably more praise this year than in years past. fi nd new residences mid-year. The that these permits allow for undue teaching.” The educational company designated the college’s issue was exacerbated by the fact that government interference. The Princeton Review for 2009 similarly ranked selectivity ranking as 98, a ranking equivalent to Professor Ruth Griffi oen allegedly in- Mayor Jeanne Zeidler said in an in- William and Mary among the best institutions of peer schools Georgetown University, Cornell Uni- formed police and gathered evidence, terview with The Informer last Fall that higher education in the country. The New York- versity, and The University of North Carolina at including photographs that she had she was open to solutions that make based educational fi rm’s annual survey of 122,000 Chapel Hill. taken of the property. the three-person rule “more fl exible.” students shows the College ranked seventh for Notably, the College’s “green rating” in The In addition to last year’s 711 Rich- She also stated that any changes im- “Best College Library.” The Tribe also boasts the Princeton Review - a metric of an institution’s envi- mond Road controversy, Professor plemented should be done so incre- eighth best in “Quality of Professors”, and four- ronmental friendliness- increased from 84 to 90. and Vice Mayor Clyde Haulman mentally. teenth in “Happiest Students” among elite colleg- President Reveley linked this increase to the imple- made comments es and universities in the United States. The Princeton mentation of last year’s “Green Fee,” a tuition in- that many stu- Review also designated the College the third best crease that the student body approved in Spring dents found to be public university in the country by value. 2008 to fi nance environmental sustainability. in poor taste, call- ing the Steer Clear program a “drunk bus.” Mr. Haulman ADMINISTRATION CHANGES: has also comment- ed that a neighbor- College sees new leaders in charge hood populated by students would lead continued from page one next dean of William and Mary Law School. to declining prop- Douglas succeeds President Reveley, who served erty values. search programs, faculty development, and as- as dean of the Marshall-Wythe School of Law The three-person sist in the entire university’s budgetary planning for nearly ten years before moving to the presi- rule was also high- efforts. Halleran succeeds Geoffrey Feiss, who dent’s offi ce last year. Lynda Butler, Chancellor lighted by the 2008 served as the College’s provost for six years. Prior Professor of Law, served as interim dean of the candidacy of Matt to his appointment at William and Mary, Halleran law school from February 2008 until July of this Beato for Williams- had served as dean of the College of Arts and year, when Douglas assumed his responsibilities. burg City Council. Sciences at the University of Miami since 2005 Douglas joined the College’s law faculty in 1990, Students opposing and divisional dean of Arts and Humanities at serving as director of William and Mary’s Insti- the three-person the University of Washington from 1997 to tute of Bill of Rights Law from 1997 to 2004. rule rallied around 2005. Halleran also taught at Connecticut Col- Like President Reveley, Douglas completed his his campaign. Mr. lege, the College of the Holy Cross, and was a undergraduate studies at Princeton University. Beato lost by only teaching fellow at Harvard University. He also received a law degree, a Ph.D. in history, 154 votes, a dispar- Also in March, the College announced that and a master’s degree in religion from Yale Uni- ity revealing that Professor Davison Douglas would serve as the versity. the issue was just as Get The Virginia Informer delivered to your door! The Virginia Informer is the NEWEST news publication on campus and The Informer is the ONLY completely independent student newspaper of the College of William and Mary. We report what others dare not print! ------Please, let us send you each of our exciting issues for 2009-2010 for only $50. To order a subscription, please fi ll out this form and mail with payment to: The Virginia Informer CSU 7056 PO Box 8793 Williamsburg, VA 23186

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Please make checks payable to The Virginia Informer. If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact us at [email protected] Virginia The Page 5 Informer Features April 26, 2009 Mock Trial looking for legal, acting talent Laura Visochek Staff Editor

William and Mary’s mock trial team has been slowly building excellence and expertise in the past few years. As a member of the American Mock Trial Association (AMTA), the team com- petes in a number of competitions each year. “Mock trial is the best way to decide if you actually want to go into law,” says Daisy Weill (’10), presi- dent of William and Mary’s mock trial team. In the fall, the team attends various invitational tournaments, such as those held by the University of Pennsylvania. Regionals are in the spring. The Wil- liam and Mary team also usually goes to UVA’s tournament, which is held at the federal courthouse in DC. Accord- ing to Ms. Weill, UVA’s tournament is incredibly exciting because the teams compete in the same rooms where his- tory is made. According to the organization’s website, “AMTA serves as the govern- ing body for intercollegiate mock trial competition. Through engaging in trial simulations in competition with teams from other institutions, students de- Courtesy of Daisy Weill velop critical thinking and public Laying down the law: William and Mary’s Mock Trial team has been steadily accumulating experience and talent. Pictured are members speaking skills, as well as a knowledge of the team at a championship in South Carolina last year. of legal practices and procedures.” Mock trial is more than just a simu- legal scholars, lawyers, judges, and law and avoiding objectionable material,” tion. lation of what goes on in a courtroom. students, mock trial “gives you instant says Ms. Collins. Ms. Collins said, “Overall, mock tri- Stephanie Collins (’12) says that “It connections with people everywhere” But one area of weakness remains al has been a great college experience.” is such a good way to develop quick in the legal world. for the team, admits Ms. Weill. “A lot The team will be having its first meet- thinking and better speaking skills… The evidence of the mock trial of mock trial really is acting…You ing on September 3rd at 8pm, though It requires you to react and adapt to team’s improvement over the last actually develop an entire character.” the location of this meeting has not situations you might not have expect- few years is clear. “One of the good The team is hoping to recruit more yet been decided. In the meantime, ed, such as responding to an objection things about mock trial at William theater students and those interested all questions can be directed to Daisy from the other team or dealing with and Mary is the team effort during in acting. Each role, especially those Weill, at [email protected]. Questions an uncooperative witness on cross ex- preparation - everyone is willing to of the witnesses, calls for a dedica- relating to the AMTA or mock trial amination.” Ms. Weill is quick to point help each other out with witness ex- tion to the character’s description in general can be answered at www. out that with the interaction with real aminations, developing case theories, provided in the AMTA case descrip- collegemocktrial.org.

Blame it on the alcohol: Bourbon Mixed Drinks Top Power Rankings It’s not often that mixed drinks fi nd cocktails can give you a sophisticated ad- 2. Gin and Tonic 4. Sprite and Vodka their way into the beer column. How- dition to your bartending repertoire. Here The Gin and Tonic is rarely seen on the Vodka is the most widely consumed li- ever, when prepared correctly, these are the rankings: collegiate level, and is usually reserved for quor in the United States, and this mixes people over forty. However, this drink averagely well with Sprite. Unlike all the 1. Jim Beam and is just too good to pass up, and weighs rest, this should NOT be served with ice. Ginger Ale in at #2. Tonic water is Many students fi nd themselves The bitter sweet dirt cheap (about a dollar sorely tempted by Aristocrat taste of bourbon per liter), so you won’t run Vodka for its low price of $13 mixes extremely well into any fi nancial trouble per handle. However, the qual- with ginger ale. So there. Quality Gin does fall ity of Vodka varies with price well, in fact, that this on the pricey side, however. more than any other drink, and drink lands itself at I’d recommend Pinnacle stooping to Aristocrat will only the top of the heap. Dry Gin, as this is a fairly result in a lifelong aversion to I recommend keep- economic product that still Vodka in general. Smirnoff ing the bourbon in maintains the quality of Hart Moore usually dominates the market the freezer over- France’s fi nest. Or, if you’re Asst. News Editor on the pricey end, but our mon- night, and serving feeling “patriotic”, a W&M ey is well worth the quality of with a handful of alumnus started Bulldog Gin. Serve with the drink. ice. Jim Beam is a ice, as well as a fresh-cut slice of lime. quality product, but 5. Anything and Milk if you’re looking for 3. Malibu and Coke Besides a White Russian (coffee liqueur a higher end bour- This drink is often ridiculed for its low and milk), milk does not mix with any bon, Maker’s Mark alcohol proof and lack of masculinity. alcohol. It is completely insoluble with will suit your pur- Despite these drawbacks, its smooth taste all liquor, and frankly, it disgusts me that pose. Warning: The boosts it to our number three ranking. anyone would ever try to mix anything ‘wax’ covering of The sweet aftertaste of the Puerto Ri- besides Nesquick or piping hot chocolate Maker’s Mark is actu- can Rum goes extremely well with either with one’s milk. Milk and alcohol ranks ally plastic. Attempts coke our diet coke, and again, it should be last on our power chart, a drink reserved at burning this ‘wax’ served with ice. As the title hints, Malibu for only the most desperate. onto your hand will Rum should be used in place of Captain result in blisters/ Morgan’s Puerto Rican Rum, as the latter Editors Note: The Virginia Informer en- Courtesy Photo burns. Bear that in is grossly overpriced for its quality. courages its readers to please drink responsibly, On the rocks: Gin and tonic is a classy and inexpensive mind before you’ve and in accordance with local, state and federal law. drink for college students, not just senior citizens. had enough to try it. Virginia Page The 6 August 26, 2009 FEATURES Informer Phoneathon tracks down alumni, re- connects them to College

Brandon Bleakley Assistant Business Editor

With a large portion of the United States fi nding itself short on funds, many stu- dents turn to the William and Mary Phona- thon to replenish their pockets with Wawa money. As one of the largest on-campus student employers, Phonathon commis- sions our undergraduate and graduate stu- dents to contact alumni and friends of the College. It is a common student belief that the Courtesy of yorkcounty.gov Phonathon is used simply to round up do- Colonial charm: Students and town residents now have the option of riding historic-appearing trollies, rather than buses. nations from alumni. However, the mis- sion of Phonathon is quite different. While donations may or may not be considered Thomas the Tank Engine? Not quite: during the conversation, many other steps of Phonathon protocol are taken before money becomes an issue. Trollies added to Williamsburg transportation service According to Eric Scruggs, Assistant Director of the Phonathon, “One of our Sarah Nadler inside.” The student friendly shut- feature bike racks. main missions in calling is to update bio- Managing Editor tle starts August 20 and will run Trolley 1 will start from Lega- graphical information and to ensure that two thirty-minute routes between cy Hall in New Town and travel we have the most up-to-date contact infor- In a November 2008 interview New Town, Williamsburg Shopping through High Street, to Williams- mation for our alumni.” with the Informer, Mayor Zeidler Center, High Street and Merchants burg Shopping Center on Richmond When making calls, students fi rst an- promised improvements in the Wil- square. The trolley will be free of Road then to the Prince George nounce that they are calling on behalf of liamsburg Area Transportation sys- charge for students with W&M Street stop at Merchants Square. the College and then update addresses and tem. Improvements were unveiled id and cost $.50 for non students. Trolley 2 will leave from the Prince other contact information. The next goal in an August 19 press release en- The fare will be half off for senior George Street stop at Merchants is to establish a link with the alumnus, titled the “Williamsburg Trolley is citizens and free for everyone until Square, stop at Williamsburg Shop- such as fi nding common ground through Here.” September 20, 2009. ping Center on Richmond Road and a major or extracurricular activity. Once Because Williamsburg transit According to the press release, travel through High Street to the fostering relationships with the alumni, wasn’t crazy enough, students will the Trolley will run seven days a Legacy Hall stop in New Town. the student may inform them about news now have classic looking trolleys week “with an emphasis on evening You can learn more about the or events concerning the College. At this to shuttle them around town. The service.” Monday to Thursday the Williamsburg Trolley on line at point, students will ask for a donation trolleys will be “colorful red and trolley will run 3:00 p.m. - 10:00 www.williamsburgtransport.com, or amount based on past contributions. green with yellow pin-stripe detail- p.m, Friday and Saturday 3:00 p.m. by calling WATA Headquarters at One may be curious as to how the Phona- ing and a brass bell on the outside, - 11:00 p.m. and Sunday 12:00 p.m. 757-220-5493 Ext 200, from 8:00 thon obtains the phone numbers of so many with brass railings and wrought iron - 8:00 p.m. The trolleys are handi- a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through alumni. It is actually more of an investiga- supported wooden seating on the cap accessible, air conditioned and Friday. tory process than some may assume. The majority of the information comes from the Alumni Association, who did not respond Drink of the Week to inquiries made by The Informer concerning their methods for alumni contact. However, a portion of alumni contact information be- comes lost through moves and relocation. When this occurs, the Phonathon will use the Ocean Breeze National Change of Address Service, which can be found using a number of databases such as the United States Postal Service. Jeff Dailey Often, alumni do not contact the Na- Staff Writer tional Change of Address Service. In such cases, the alumni become lost and com- It’s still summer, yes? Yes. So here I am starting out your year with a pletely out of contact from the College. “summer drink.” Some of you resident Brosefs might decry this. “It’s a Occasionally, due to these situations, a re- chick’s drink,” you may say. Well to you I say nay! I say it’s delicious, re- search service may be used to help put lost freshing, and will defi nitely keep you calm enough to make it through alumni back in contact with William and classes. That and it has real fruit juice in it. Mama would be so proud. Mary. Students who prove their worth in gath- Ingredients ering donations at Phonathon can move Simply syrup up the ranks. Students who are experi- Grapefruit juice enced callers in Phonathon have the privi- Cranberry juice lege of applying to call Fourth Century Champagne Club members, those who annually pledge a minimum of $2,000 to the Fund for Wil- Directions liam and Mary. Since their donations are so Mix one measure simple syrup, one measure grapefruit juice, and important to the school, Fourth Century three measures cranberry juice in champagne fl ute (or Coke bottle). Club members are called only by experi- Fill to top with four parts champagne, and you’ll be golden. enced students. Last semester, Phonathon made over Welcome back Tribesmen and Tribeswomen, and welcome frosh- 140,000 phone calls. On completed calls, Jeff Dailey mores. You’re going to have a lot of fun here. I guarantee it. the average donation to the Fund was $95. Roughly 17 percent of the College’s fund- Editors Note: The Virginia Informer encourages its readers to please drink raising came from Phonathon, contribut- responsibly, and in accordance with local, state and federal law. ing $848,000 of the $5.1 million that the College garnered from fundraising activi- ties. Virginia InformerThe Page 7 Arts & Culture April 26, 2009 Summer Music Recap: 5 Albums You Should Have Already Heard Dirty Projectors Jordan Bloom Arts and Culture Editor Bitte Orca I’ve always thought of “summer music” as an insipid thing, and for the most part, it is. Back in April, Rascal Flatts dropped the clunker “Sum- “Bitte” is German for “please,” restraint and small scale contrasting mer Nights,” which cautioned us to “let that Igloo cooler mark your and an orca is a car- nivorous nicely with the left-field instrumen- piece of paradise.” Sage advice. I propose these five new albums as a whale. Now you know tation. Flailing metallic guitarsguitar and cure for bloodless Corona-swilling summer anthems, selected because what you’re getting paired vocals abound.abound Bitte they are not only fun, but strident and occasionally even thoughtful. into. Dave Long- Orca may be a pop streth and companyompany a l b u m , shed their shame-hame- but the less hipster-ismsm in P r o - favor of more tra- j e c t o r s Wilco ditional forms for taketa to it this June release,ase, with such and boy, does it willfulwill ex- Wilco (The Album) work. They dis-is - uuber b e r a n c e tinguish them-m- and unique Not as beguiling as selves with flairfl ai r that Summerteeth or pro- the same in- they acquirea vocative as Yankee Ho- teractive and that labell tel Foxtrot , Tweedy and visual song- on their own the gang released the writing, its terms. almost-eponymous al- bum just in time for fes- tival season. By almost any measure, it’s an ex- cellent album, with all the rises and falls and a beautiful palette of tex- Chickenfoot tures. Tweedy’s song- writing is fi ne, but there is little vitality or muscle to the arrangements. Chickenfoot The feel is of seasoned musicians strolling I couldn’t resist. The super- through familiar ter- group consisting of Sammy ritory and deepening Hagar, Michael Anthony, Joe their catalog, but not Satriani and Chad Smith with breaking sonic ground. a single called “Oh Yeah” has been destined to run a- fowl from the beginning. Phoenix They don’t surprise; their fi rst album is a horrorshow pastiche of every imaginable Wolfgang Amadeus arena rock contrivance. The problem with aging rockers The album title and the single “Liz- not sentimental no!” Coldplay and is that lines that used to be stomania” suggests some obscure clas- Strokes comparisons come easily be- sexy , like “I just want to be sicist paradox of taste and hedonism. tween the glossy sheen of the album your hootchie-cootchie man” However, contradiction is Phoenix’ s and occasionally obtuse lyrics. (from “Oh Yeah”), and songs M.O. ; the album begins with The best tratracks stick to their titled “Soap on a Rope” are the line “So senti- signature trippingtr indie-rock now slimy and asinine (Hagar mental, bounce (“1901”,(“1 “Lasso”); will be 62 in October). By the fi rst track, comically overwrought tale of a “wet- it’s all too slicks for any grand they have proved they are morally as back” crossing the border (yeah, they swells or massive stormy well as artistically destitute, spinning a really said that). bridges to be convinc- ing (“Countdown”),(“Co and Thomas Mars’ s voice Passion Pit is too ofteno a hopeless dither.dither It’s better than backgroundbackgr music, Manners but I’m not sure the membersmemb of Phoenix The first chorus of the leadoff hearted album, but undeniable song- are the saviors of track “Make Light” ends by writing chops keep it from nestling theth new-new-wave saying “tonightght I’ll into parody. In a perfectperfe flash of thatth many critics make light of my self-awareness, singsinger Michael seemse to think. treacherous life.” Angelakos justifies all They do. A buf- theth pomp fet of synthss and and put-on shamelessly cloy- “epic”-ness,“e ing riffs remindmind wawarning that me of the days “quiet“q minds when MTVTV don’tdo know at least kneww theirthei worth.” it sucked,d, I couldn’tco have and a cho- said iti bet- rus of chil- ter. MannersM is dren gets a hehearty meal us “higher masqueradingmasque as and high- tooth-rottingtooth-ro can- er and dy, makimaking it the higher.” Makeake best of bothbo worlds. no mistake, it’s a light- Virginia Page The 8 August 26, 2009 arts & culture Informer

The Finer Side: Keeping it summer all year long Oh, how elusive those lazy wind, sit under a tree and mer, categorized “beach ture is outside. days of summer seem. The warm read. Summer is a three- reads”? Well, don’t trade And my favorite find of the weather, days free from the de- month-long mental break; in all your beach reads for summer: Union Street Soap- mands of classes, the Fourth take little mental breaks textbooks this year! Give works. I discovered these guys at of July picnics, and the summer during the year to let your brain a break from a farmer’s market in Washington, blockbuster movies. Just the word yourself recharge. Sum- Locke’s Second Trea- DC this summer, and have been “summer” conjures up images and mer doesn’t have to be the tise on Government with in love with their soap ever since! memories for us that always seem only time you relax. something more light- Made from all natural ingredients so happy and carefree. And then Jennifer Souers hearted. Swem keeps a (none of the chemicals typically fall comes. With the start of the Do stuff outdoors. The Finer Side popular fiction section at found in commercial soaps), this fall term, the demands of classes Most summer activities the front of the library for company’s soaps last forever, cre- resume, and the weather turns take place outdoors – swimming, just such a purpose. And if you’re ate a great lather, and have some cold again. Now don’t get me hiking, running, etc. Just because it’s looking for something new, enter- of the best and most realistic wrong, I love fall too, but there’s fall doesn’t mean you have to lock taining, and mentally stimulating, I fragrances for soaps! Based out something about the dog days of yourself in the gym! Go for a run recommend The Secret Life of Lobsters of Michigan, all of the products summer that I just wish would through DoG Street, provided it isn’t by Trevor Corson (Harper Perennial, can be easily found online at their never end. However, just because snowing yet. $14). You’ll laugh, you’ll learn, and website www.unionstreetsoap. the leaves are about to change you’ll appreciate that tasty crusta- com. My summertime favorites colors doesn’t mean we have to Try new activities. cean on your plate so much more! are Seaside and Toasted Coconut let the Finer Side of summer slip Summer allows us to try new things A few things I especially love to (which, by the way, smells just away till next year. Here are some and be adventurous. Keep that spir- help me keep summer still around: like toasted coconut!!) They also tips: it in mind all through fall! Go rock sunless tanner is a wonderful inven- sell soap samplers that make great climbing at the Rec Center or go tion. All of the color, none of the gifts for any time of year! Take time to relax throughout down to Lake Matoaka for kayaking carcinogens. My personal favorite Summertime doesn’t have to the year. and a picnic. is Olay’s Touch of Sun ($9, CVS fade like the setting sun; with a Summer lets us relax and re- Pharmacy). Since we’re not allowed little effort, it can last all year! member what life is like outside Beach Reads aren’t just candles in our rooms, Bath and Body the classroom. Set aside time dur- for the Beach. Works Concentrated Room Spray Questions or comments for Jennifer? ing the year to sleep in, take a lazy You know that whole genre of in Coconut Lime Verbena ($5) will Email her at [email protected]! afternoon to do nothing but un- fiction (and some nonfiction) that make you feel like it’s summer all the comes out en masse during the sum- time, no matter what the tempera-

Book Review: Pynchon gives us a Sherlock Stoned Like what

Jordan Bloom You won’t find anything close Arts and Culture Editor to Sam Spade or Philip Marlowe INHERENT VICE you see? here; Doc is a short fellow with Without doubt or equivocation, a ‘fro, and he takes his notes on Author: Thomas Pynchon this was one of the dreariest sum- anything from napkins to his mers in years, and that distinction own hand. Pages: 384 has nothing to do with weather. The novel takes place at the Publisher: Penguin Press These were three months where end of the 1960s; Vietnam rages ISBN: 1594202249 JOIN Michael Bay grossed 390.4 million and Sharon Tate’s entrails have List Price: $27.95 dollars in a week, and Stephenie augured the death of free love Meyer clocked in at #26 on the and cheap weed. This is the dete- Forbes list of the most powerful riorating world in which Sportel- US. celebrities. Oh, and Michael Jack- lo investigates various misdeeds. cho Smilax, Ensenada Slim and son died. This particular case (or several Doc’s rival Bigfoot Bjornsen. Thankfully, on August 4th re- entwined cases) concerns the dis- Inherent Vice is far more reader- clusive novelist Thomas Pynchon appearance of his ex-girlfriend friendly than any of his other work bestowed upon us his latest work, and her new boyfriend, a ruthless (2006’s Against The Day had around Want to increase Inherent Vice , a hard-boiled mys- real estate tycoon named Mickey 100 characters and weighed more tery noir centered on a constantly Wolfmann. His sleuthing office than an organic chemistry text- traffi c to your stoned P.I. named Doc Sportello. is called L.S.D. (location, surveil- book), but it still contains all of lance, detection) Investi- what we expect from Pynchon: blog? Contact gations; such little jokes anagrams, obscure cultural refer- abound. ences, and a wicked sense of hu- Needless to say, drugs mor. Its lightness, though, some- us and we can figure heavily in the sto- times comes at the expense of ry, and that’s part of the narrative tension; characters call promote your fun; his detective’s in- and subplots are exposed random- sight gives way to high ly, sapping the suspense of a typi- blog on The paranoia and free asso- cal noir drama. You could chock ciation. For instance, that up to the whole “psychedelic Informer ’s when talking about the romp” side of the story and that possible ethnic roots of the case just provides an excuse the mercurial Mickey for loosely-related events to hap- website. Wolfmann, he doesn’t pen, a thin line on which a plot can know if there are Swed- be hung, a typical criticism of the ish Jews, but he “knows genre. there’s Swedish Fish.” Pynchon has restricted him- He later complains that a self to an established style, and Contact us particular blend of ganje he performed brilliantly without made him start “over- sacrificing any of his unique pa- thinking myself into a nache. Not a dilution at all, he has at editor@ brainfreeze” after a hy- focused his swirling worlds of ob- peractive litany of un- scure reference within a succinct vainformer. likely connections. The narrative framework. Holding up other characters in the as a mystery and a trip, Inherent book are similarly color- Vice succeeds. com ful, with names like Sau- Virginia The Page Informer arts & culture April 26, 2009 9 Movie Review: More mature, Sandler still isn’t a master

Patrick Macaluso cent cast, the best in show, by far, Film Critic was Leslie Mann, who played Laura, George Simmons’s former love in- Funny People is yet another film terest. Although it took some time from Judd Apatow. He’s been on a to reach a true appreciation for her roll these days, so why stop? Apa- character, Mann’s performance was tow’s protégé Seth Rogen takes the believable and heartfelt. I would not lead role as aspiring comedian Ira be surprised to hear her name buzz- Wright, who begins writing jokes ing during awards season. and working as the personal assis- Undoubtedly, the film had re- tant to the ailing legendary George deeming qualities, but it certainly Simmons, played by Adam Sandler. wasn’t as good as most of us had I have not come to expect great hoped. things from Sandler. Granted, we all 3.5/5 Feathers love to watch and laugh at Billy Madison, but truly, Sandler has not left any sort of significant impact on American film. Al- though undoubtedly more ma- ture in this film, he still doesn’t strike the more highbrow note that he seems to be attempting. The film had its funny mo- Kimball History at a Glance ments, and it keeps viewers entertained for the expected January 12, 1933: amount of time for a film like Doors opened to players from the College of William and Mary this. However, the film was at least an hour too long, and performing the play “The Recruiting Offi cer,” the fi rst play staged in the that extra hour of plot exposi- fi rst theater in British North America. tion gives us no greater appre- Later 1930’s: ciation for the characters or the Radio-Keith-Orpheum fi lm distribution company, owned by John real point of the film. I believe D. Rockefeller Jr., builds The Williamsburg Theater after delays. Walt Apatow was trying to make a more mature film, and although Disney himself frequents the establishment. he succeeded at this, it does not Spring 2000: even come close to the quality Bill and Gretchen Kimball of Belvedere, Ca. commission a year- of either The 40 Year Old Vir- long restoration and renovation of the theater, resulting in its gin or Knocked Up. rededication September 28, 2001. Despite the all-around de- August Schedule Movies and Plays Live Performances Summer Hours (Not rated) Sun., Aug. 23–Sun., Aug. 30 Thurs., August 27 Sun., August 30 Shows at 4:10, 6, and 7:45 p.m. 1, 3, 5 screening room -Founding Father -The Girlfriend Experience 1:30 p.m. 4, 5:30, 7 p.m. 77 mins -Summer Hours -Summer Hours 4:10, 6, 7:45 p.m. SR 4:10, 6, 7:45 p.m. SR -18th-Century Play Series: Polly Summer Hours (Not rated) Honeycombe Mon., August 31 Sun., Aug. 23–Sun., Aug. 30 7:30 p.m. -Crystal Concert Shows at 4:10, 6, and 7:45 p.m. Fri., August 28 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. 26–30 screening room -The Girlfriend -Founding Father Experience 99 mins 1:30 p.m. 4, 5:30, 7 p.m. SR -Summer Hours -A Grand Medley 4:10, 6, 7:45 p.m. SR 7:30 p.m. Conversations with a Founding Father: Thomas -Rocky Mountain High Jefferson, Patrick Henry, or George Washington 8 p.m July 2–Aug. 28 every Tues., Thurs., and Fri. Sat., August 29 (except July 7 and 10) at 1:30 p.m. -Summer Hours Colonial Wiliamsburg admision ticket or Good 4:10, 6, 7:45 p.m. SR Neighbor Pas required. -Second Flyte 7:30 p.m. Virginia Page 10 InformerThe August 26, 2009 Opinion Staff Editorial: City proposes to treat students like second class citizens

A new year is starting and so begins In addition to these harsh restrictions, a perennial William and Mary tradition; permits costing around 800 dollars must debating the much hated Williamsburg be obtained from the city by landlords Three Person rule. For those unfamiliar before they can allow students to move with it, the basic idea of the three per- in, which would greatly reduce the desire son rule is that more than three unrelated of many landlords to rent to students people cannot live together in the city of as well as increase cost. Furthermore Williamsburg. We fi nd the recently pro- all residents would have to give the city posed changes to the rule unsatisfactory. their names and phones numbers to city Some Williamsburg residents claim offi cials and be prohibited from sublet- that it is to prevent frat houses, and oth- ting in the summer. To add the icing on er party houses, from popping up off the cake the plan would force all houses campus like so many locusts, thus ruin- to have to submit to yearly inspections ing the quaint small town charm with of by city offi cials and would give the city Williamsburg with swarms of college the ability to revoke the permit at any students and all their drinking and puk- time if neighbors complain about dis- ing and noise and litter. Many students ruptions “in good faith.” This is an am- Sarah Deans however see this as a draconian measure biguously-worded clause to say the least. that stems from older citizens’ irrational In essence the city of Williamsburg is and well known hatred of ‘punk kids’ treating students more like registered and greatly hinders their ability to live sex offenders or suspected terrorists off campus and enjoy the city as much than fellow citizens. as any local. Many students are forced These ‘changes’ should be considered to live in expensive on-campus housing unacceptable by the student body. If or far off campus due primarily to fear- we take this agreement we have signed ful citizens’ desire to keep young people away our rights as free people to the city off their lawns. In short it is the most council of Williamsburg and allowed a devise issue straining town-gown rela- bureaucratic nightmare to lord over our tions. homes and lives. While concerned citi- Recently, the city council has delegat- zens must be respected, students can- ed to the planning commission discus- not allow themselves to be treated like sion of the possibility of allowing four second class citizens. There are ways people to live together off campus. Un- to please both older residents and stu- fortunately this ‘concession’ is hardly a dents, including implementing stronger concession at all. Under the new pro- noise regulations and allowing students posed plan four people would be al- to live in New Town, away from quaint lowed to live together only in homes quiet Colonial Williamsburg. over 2000 square feet with four or more But wait! There’s more! Planning rooms and two or more full bathrooms. Commission member William Kafes It does not include apartments, con- has suggested a revision making it illegal dos or town houses as available living for more than two unrelated people to spaces. These homes also have to have live together. While this might just be a at least 4 parking spaces, each 8 feet in scare tactic designed to frighten students length. And just to top it all off this new into taking the less dictatorial aforemen- allowance does not apply to all zoning tioned proposal, students must reject areas in Williamsburg. Only 31% of outright both of these options. We, the Williamsburg homes have 4 bedrooms student body must insist on fair and Thank you from all of us at or more and not all of these are within balanced changes to the 3 person rule the zoned, rental areas. Thus, the num- that would allow more students to live The Virginia Informer ber of eligible houses would be horren- peaceably off campus as well as acco- dously small. modate Williamsburg’s older residents. The Informer is an independent publication and does not receive any Make an impact on campus... public funding, unlike other publications at William and Mary. Join

Mr. Richard Beard - Mr. Robert Beck The Virginia Mr. Alberto Chalmeta - Mr. John Gleie - Mr. Lance Kyle Mr. Sanford Whitwell Informer The Informer is the only paper at William and Mary that is entirely independent of the College, meaning we report the truth and go in-depth to publish what others dare not print!

If you would like to support The Virginia Informer , please Come to a meeting: contact us at [email protected]. Mondays The Virginia Informer is a nonpartisan group registered as an offi cial student-run organization at the College of William & Mary, and a member of the Associated 7:30pm Collegiate Press. Blow 331 Virginia The Page Informer Opinion August 26, 2009 11 “Democracy” is a sham in Iran, and perhaps also at William and Mary As many students prepared to make their way to Wil- voting four hours later. Friends called everyone they transform into a true movement. Not a movement to liamsburg for Fall classes a realization hit me. The events knew, mass emails were sent, fraternity members went abolish our Honor Code, but to strengthen it by abolish- following the Iranian election this summer were in many door to door to tell others to vote and to vote no. The ing a despotic and undemocratic Honor Council. respects similar to those that took place at William and referendum was rejected by a narrow mar- Mary last year. Even in this incubator of American de- gin, with only around 500 student votes cast mocracy, our college’s democratic pretenses were chal- in the entire election. The response of the lenged by the very undemocratic actions of one college Council was to run the exact same referen- body, and students responded. dum only months later. This time the instant Students returning to campus know the story. It is of grass-roots effort of the fi rst vote morphed the Honor Council’s attempt to push through an opaque into a tidal wave of editorials, opposition fl i- and, to the shock of many, rather authoritarian set of ers, and a buzz on campus about what the alterations to our Honor Code. There were Council was doing. Both The three votes on this set of changes. The ul- Virginia Informer and The Flat timate defeat would have made the code’s Hat ran staff editorials encour- founder proud, as the largest number of aging another rejection of the students believed to have voted on one side measure. of any election in college history, either Attempting to pass undemo- for a candidate or position, said “no” to cratic referendums by undem- the proposed referendum. 1,927 students ocratic means would be one voted no. thing, if it was simply an iso- Though this vote received coverage in lated case. But with the Honor the campus press, it was not a national Council of William and Mary news story. Campus campaigns and votes this is more a pattern of behav- on such issues rarely are. They are no less Steven Nelson ior. The Council has in the past important than those of more recognition Editor in Chief shut off voice recordings during in despotic countries around the world. trials to verbally abuse student What is often lost in the coverage of these events is the counsels, and consistently removes students fact that challenges to democracy are not confi ned to from standing for election due to arbitrary Iran or North Korea, they are always present and need standards. Removing unknown numbers of to be checked. students from ballots is supported through When the fi rst of the three elections on the Honor vague defi nitions guiding qualifi cations. The Council’s referendum took place it was in the late Fall number of strong candidates with student of 2008. The vote was to approve a series of changes rights as a priority that have been removed is to the Council’s bylaws. Among the changes were the unknowable because the Council refuses to elimination of future student-wide referendums for pro- disclose the number of candidates removed, cedural changes, the alteration of triviality hearings, and or why, citing “confi dentiality.” Not disclos- the investment in the Chair of the power to close open ing the names or personal information of hearings that were requested by the accused. Students rejected students would seem to suffi ciently were not made adequately aware of the election and on guard privacy, but requests for this informa- the day of the relatively unpublicized vote I received a tion have been denied. phone call at 10PM from a friend who informed me of Social issues gain traction and reform the election. As we talked about the referendum, and movements emerge when individuals collec- my surprise of being unaware of it, it became clear that tively recognize that things as they are sim- there were numerous problems with the changes. We ply are not acceptable. At William and Mary Sarah Deans decided that it was necessary to stage a last minute cam- such a movement is developing. Students of This cartoon was drafted immediately prior to last Semester's vote paign. diverse backgrounds and organizational af- on the Honor Council referendum. It critiques the despotic changes The eleventh hour campaign to kill the referendum fi liations are beginning to mull an idea: aboli- and the Council of Chairs' decision to re-run the same referendum began at 10PM that night, and ended with the close of tion. Within the next year this idea stands to multiple times. A cog in the machinery of “Change” As sure as rising mercury, eager and cause, in my case it was environmental the frying pan and into the fi re. Quotas charged with getting water from a stone enthusiastic college students going out protection, left at the end of the day hat- become key at this point, as they must as they stand on empty street corners day to “change the world” in nonprofi t or- ing campaigning and the movement as a be met every day or you face dire conse- after day until they are eventually fi red. ganizations is a mainstay of the sum- whole. Why? It is because of the cold and quences. Miss three days, you are fi red. In short, the rich get richer and the poor mer season. Bright and chipper students brutal approach that the Fund takes to Don’t make quota average two weeks in get poorer, literally. This is surely a very knocking door to door and its employees. I use the word a row? Don’t let the door hit you on the odd stance for a supposedly “progres- standing on street corner “employees” because work- backside. After a few weeks of this, I be- sive” organization to take and one that asking ‘Do you have one ing for the fund is indeed a gan to realize that I was little more than disenfranchises many a young liberal. minute for the Environ- full-time job; they don’t take a hired mercenary or a petty salesman My time with the heartless Fund led ment?’ is a more common people who won’t work at hawking wares, since the amount of me to the conclusion that this system summer sight in some areas least 40 hours a week. In my money I brought in dictated my pay. In of canvassing can only hurt the pro- than swim trunks or farm- time working there, about this environment, it becomes dog-eat- gressive movement in the long run. It ers’ tans. This summer, four people were dismissed dog: every dollar another person gets is treats its workers like little more than your very own Informer a day. The vast majority of one that could have gone to you, and that cogs in a money-making machine, which Opinions Editor could be people don’t make it more lost dollar brings you one step closer to is a decent way to run a for-profi t com- counted among their perky Alexander Powell than three days before being the chopping block. The system itself is pany. However, for an engine of social numbers. However, my ex- Opinion Editor shown the door. On my fi rst designed to make workers fail; the spots change, it is unthinkable and can only perience hardly fi lled me day, for instance, six new you are assigned to canvass directly cor- mean failure in the long run. To any col- with the zeal of a true believer and left people started, and only one came back relate with your average numbers. If a lege student looking to work for them I me cold, unhappy and very cynical about the next day. I am sure that the Fund new core member has a bad day, they are say, “Beware.” the whole lobbying experience. would excuse this behavior as necessary Now I am no stranger when it comes to remove the wheat from the chaff, but to campaigning in general. Last fall, I I fi nd it hard not to believe that treating was out every weekend spreading the people so cavalierly loses many young Love us? Hate us? McCain message, and I intend to re- idealists. Being fi red after your fi rst day turn to the trail as the semester goes on. surely doesn’t inspire people to go out However, my time spent working for the campaigning for another issue again. Please send letters to the editor. Fund for the Public Interest made me Yet even after you are hired as a core come to the conclusion that the method staff member, i.e. people who make used by that organization is killing the their goals and last at least three days, [email protected] progressive movement. Countless naive the pressure doesn’t let up. No, instead students who sincerely believed in the it becomes a classic example of out of Virginia Page The 12 August 26, 2009 Informer Noted lawyer James Comey (‘82) discusses undergrad memories and career Will be keynote speaker at the Convocation ceremony on August 28

Steven Nelson One day I saw the word “death” on a bulletin board ad- Editor in Chief vertising for a class on death. It looked cool, so I took it. The class was taught by a great professor, and I took James Comey’s career is by any standard remarkable. Mr. one religion class or another. During junior year, I had Comey graduated from William and Mary in 1982 with a an epiphany: why should I be a doctor? After junior double major in chemistry and religion. By the time of his year, I decided I wanted to be a lawyer, but I fi nished graduation, he decided to become a lawyer and attended the chemistry major. law school at the University of Chicago. He served as the District Attorney of Manhattan and, from 2003 to 2005, VAI : Did you have a particular professor who had an he served as Deputy Attorney General. During his time in impact on you? public service, Mr. Comey was infl uential in many notable Comey : There was a visiting professor, Professor cases, including the prosecution of Martha Stewart and the Wooverton. He was a historian and a Bishop in the NSA wiretapping program. He currently is a senior vice Episcopal Church from, as I remember, Maine. He president of Lockheed Martin and is the company’s Gen- was a great person and professor. Professor Tiefel, eral Counsel. an ethicist, was also a great professor. In these classes what they cared about not was not point of view, but The Virginia Informer : Where did you grow up, and that you had dealt with all considerations, that you used how did you decide to attend William and Mary? language precisely and tight reasoning. This was great James Comey : I grew up in the New York metro area. training for life and also to be a lawyer. There were lots of kids from the area who went to William and Mary. I knew two who were basketball players, and VAI : In 2003, as a US Attorney, you announced at a as a result, I visited. I applied to Harvard, Princeton, and press conference the charges against Martha Stewart. William and Mary. Harvard and Princeton, to their eternal What were your feelings on the case? usdoj.gov regret, blew me off. William and Mary accepted me, so I Comey : I didn’t really have strong feelings on the Cartel crushing: While serving in the Department of Justice decided to go. case. I wasn’t really looking forward to the prospects Mr. Comey oversaw many major investigations. of announcing the charges; I thought it would get at- VAI : While at William and Mary, what activities were you tention and distract from the importance of other prosecu- until immediately before the plan was to take effect. Could involved in? Were you involved in campus politics? tions we were pursuing, such as Worldcom. I knew I had you describe your role in developing this plan? Comey : I was not involved in campus politics, but I did to, though, because if it was Jane Doe she would have been Comey : I could but I’m not going to. I’ve never given participate in my fi rst mass protest against the idea of ex- prosecuted. I looked up statistics on the crime and found an interview on this topic and I’m going stick to that rule. panding the football stadium. I was involved in The Flat that there were 2,000 cases by the Justice Department that Mostly because it would infuriate a lot of people from The Hat, and as a junior and senior, I wrote a weekly column. I year for providing false statements during an investigation. New York Times and The Washington Post who I have said no was active in dorm council leadership as a dorm president. I I thought of my hesitation about the case due to someone to. A couple reasons I have not discussed this: I have no was active in IM sports. I was not in a greek organization. I being rich and famous, and how it shouldn’t be that way. I interest in being famous, it’s been written about, the Direc- studied a lot. In the middle ages, all sophomore men would decided we had to do it. The charges were very common tor General wrote a report on it. Another reason is I think live in the Dillard Complex, near Eastern State Hospital. but not much focused on because the people are not usu- that lawyers involved in sensitive matters should not discuss We would joke that it was a part of Eastern State. I was ally rich. them, so that people feel comfortable talking about...I’m elected to be Hall Council President. Living in the Dillard not writing a book. Complex was unbelievable; there would be escaped mental VAI : From the end of 2003 until the middle of 2005 you patients in smocks wandering around. It really stunk to live served as Deputy Attorney General. How were you chosen VAI : Politico reported a few months ago that some there; the only way to campus was by bus. It was kind of for the appointment, and why did you decide to leave? White House offi cials recommended your name be on the like Lord of the Flies . Comey : I was appointed to the position. I know me- “short list” of candidates to replace Supreme Court Justice chanically how it happened, but I am not sure how it came David Souter. Do you have any idea who these offi cials VAI : Do you have any particularly poignant memories to be that they asked me. I was the District Attorney for were, and were you ever contacted by the White House? from your time as an undergraduate? Manhattan at the time and was contacted by the Justice De- Comey : I have no idea where that came from. I had ab- Comey : I met my wife, which was awesome. I was 19, partment. They asked if I would be interested in being my solutely no idea what they were talking about, nobody ever about to turn 20. She made a failed attempt to nominate own boss. I knew my family would be interested in moving talked to me. I have no idea who shared that and no indi- me for Bryan Complex President. She claims that we met away from New York. I left in 2005 because I had been cation that it was serious. I’m a Republican and served in at a party before then, but I have no present recollection of there long enough. It’s a very tough job, and I decided to the Bush administration, so I was thinking, “Why on earth that. It was 1980, and we’ve been together ever since. That move on. There was a new Attorney General, which made would they consider me?” All I know on this is what I read was the best part of William and Mary. I loved my time it a natural time. in Politico . there; it was an island away from the real world to think about things. I had a really broad experience, a weird dou- VAI : While you served as Acting Attorney General, VAI : Can you describe your role in Lockheed Martin? ble major of chemistry and religion. when John Ashcroft was hospitalized, you refused to au- How is it different from public service? thorize the NSA’s domestic wiretapping program. There Comey : It pays better. One of the reasons I like work- VAI : You double-majored in chemistry and religion? was a subsequent rush to Mr. Ashcroft’s hospital bedside. ing at Lockheed Martin is that it feels the same. Eighty- How did you come to decide to attend law school? Could you describe your feelings about these events? four percent of our revenue comes from the government. Comey : I thought that I wanted to be a doctor, so I Comey : That was a very challenging time. I felt a number We’re supporting the FBI, the CIA, the Defense Depart- chose chemistry. Chemistry was in Rogers Hall, and on the of things, among them that my career was ending. I also ment. We’re serving our shareholders and helping the gov- ground fl oor of the building was the religion department. had an amazing group of people around me, and I remem- ernment do what it has to do. ber feeling immense pride in the Justice Department for VAI : Do you have any advice for current students con- doing a great job. I remem- sidering law school? ber feeling great support from Comey : I think it’s a great career path because of the my friend, the FBI Director fl exibility it offers you to do so many things. Legal training Robert Mueller. There is not is a great thing, whether you become a lobbyist, a corporate enough ink in your pen to executive, or a lawyer. It gives you an opportunity to get write the details. When you involved in public service, which is a neat thing. are in the middle of something like that, it’s hard to believe it’s VAI : Have you kept in touch with many friends from happening to you. college? Any in government or career? Comey : Not many. I am in Christmas-card-touch with VAI : While you served in a group of my friends. Obviously, my closest friend is my the Justice Department, there wife, so I’m in touch with her on a regular basis. I have a was a planned mass resigna- younger brother who also went to William and Mary, four tion of Justice offi cials and years behind me. A daughter is there now. I also recently others in protest of the NSA agreed to speak at Convocation. wiretapping program. Some speculated that if this oc- VAI : Do you have any preference for a new William and curred, President Bush would Mary mascot? wm.edu have been impeached, and that Comey : I don’t but I am dying to know what it will be. Renewing the charter: Mr. Comey spoke at the 2008 Charter Day celebrations, this information was kept from I’m on the Alumni Association’s board, so I have to remain encouraging students to pursue public service. him by Vice President Cheney scrupulously agnostic.