OCR::/Vol_104/WLURG39_RTP_20011105/WLURG39_RTP_20011105_001.2.txt ... ”l§.7‘7>.> R 552. v. t 0 4 ml. 13 '1‘:-r:-',Rt_\<--"-.t:~.¢l-"i»,1 j-,,,_ g,\ I, p , INSIDE IN. 3 ‘x READERS A'i'1:AcK (I3 PAGE 5 l ;;\,\;-3 2 I I>Ejt~x:‘rioNs To lx’tttx\;»'.-\x‘s ' . .. 7 S\'t’EA"i‘.‘~‘l-l('}PSi’ll-211'.l‘tl:Q’Ull{LS O P‘iM’U“ w "3 THIRD <>t>t:w,\Ns t>r\<;i~. &{,i,,.il~’l 2 (5 I AM WOMAN <1) PAGE 6 (Sp, ,:R..1.,§ -. . \"<‘)1.t.r;\/Er\1.t. r..~\.: i i i .3 V ‘ r~'«.">';’a'm ODAC '1. it: :,\7 24'./' -4 Yt'~e‘-R~%- Set an -1 at ‘».\.:m ‘t’r;i,i;r»iE Cl\r’, N6-, Xlll I, 0 o e CRASH 1- . #- X tr tr + 1 I‘ #90:» spreads nationwide 0 BY MICHAEL LEE STAFF WRITER Washington and Lee’s search for a new president is running at full steam now that the Presidential Search and Screening Committee is underway. The Committee, formed by the Board of Trustees, consists of over 20 members coming from all areas of the University, including faculty, law and undergraduate students and the Physical Plant. The Committee is chaired by Harlan Beckley. Getting publicity for the search has been a top priority for Beckley and the rest of the committee. “We are sending out letters to presidents of major academic in- stitutions,” Beckley said. The Com- mittee is actively searching for and contacting potential candidates. Bringing national attention to the Search will help ensure a higher quality candidate-pool. Beckley said, “Search is the right word. Active is the right adjective.” The Presidential Search Commit- tee is conducting the search with new and innovative ideas, Beckley said. The size of the committee was in- creased and students were allowed to participate to increase the diversity of the committee. The Committee as- sembled a “Presidential Attributes and Prospectus” pamphlet with a gen- eral description of the ideal candidate. The concept of the prospectus was derived from what Lad Sessions, act- ing dean of the college, called a “very complicated dance.” The prospectus is divided into three sections. The first discusses presidential attributes that are gen- eral and broad: “The president will be a distinguished, well- rounded intellectual, dedicated to the life of the mind.” The second section briefly talks about the structure of the University and the third section addresses the chal- lenges and opportunities the next president will face. Essentially, the prospectus asks, “ ‘Where can the new president make a difference?’ ” Sessions said. “(The ILF. PEoTo/Kin-rm committee is) looking for as close a candidate as what is contained in that prose.” The names of prospective candi- dates for the position are held in strict confidence. Beckley would not reveal too many details as to possible can- didates. He said that possible candi- dates include current and retired deans of other colleges and people who are employed in a field outside of education. When asked if a member of the Washington and Lee community could be selected by the committee, Beckley responded, “It is a nationwide search and W&L is part of nationwide.” For more information, go to the Presidential Search website at http:// www.wlu.edu/presidentialsearch. SIDE-SWIPED. A Sweetbriar student driving this Ford Taurus failed to stop at a red light at the intersection of Nelson and Jefferson Streetsjuniorjeremy Kirkland swerved his Dodge Durango to avoid hitting her, and drove off the road into a traffic signal. Seniors Mandy Cannon and Veronica Griffith were also in Kirkland’s vehicle. Rescue workers shut down traffic for over an hour while breaking open Kirkland’s passenger door. Griffith and Cannon were treated for minor injuries at Stonewalljackson Hospital and released. The Sweetbriar student has no insurance. £335 1 In, FFRR.\R\, lHl;Rr,\r,-it \rPHr University, local postal SC1‘Vice discount anthrax threat Despite national concerns over anthrax-contaminated ma , an _ infectious" -disease w apon-‘dispersed if 'Treatrnentts iusuakiy effect, e aftej"symptonns_are pre.sent,l,thoug'hvpost- symptomatic antibiotic, eatm nt can iowerthe death rate from 99% to about “ 80%.-3 ». BY IMRAN NAEMULLAH STAFF WRITER Despite extensive media coverage of anthrax attacks and threats of terrorism, Lexington appears to be a haven of relative peace and calm. While the statistical evidence shows anthrax poses little threat to anybody—the chance of winning the Lotto FOGRAPHICBX Tm\n=.McDFR~torr/THERL\'c-7tTtrPrn is higher than dying from anthrax—each unexplainable case causes more fear nationwide. The House of Rep- resentatives shut down for a day and the Supreme Court moved to a new location to cut the risk of anthrax infec- tion. Yet the most vulnerable place in Lexington to anthrax exposure, the old post office on Lee Ave., is showing cour- age and calm composure. il, W&L and Lexington mail sen/ices continue business as usual “Even though we are offering face masks and rubber gloves to employees, no one is using the masks, and few are using the gloves,” said Post- master Larry Creamer. Similar protection measures are being taken by Campus Mail Services. Cam- M’ .1 ___L_m.“L.E“. Evlhsrker Paitil RlNG'TUM PHI Thomas said, like the town’s NEWS ANALYSIS postal workers, the campus em- ployees have not chosen to use masks or gloves. “Nobody is really concerned or frightened,” he said. Thomas also points out that the risk of get- ting anthrax is low. In order to be infected by the fatal airborne version, one must inhale approxi- mately 8,000 spores. Bacteria must enter through open wounds to cause the less dangerous skin disease. Indeed, one might wonder why the nation is in such a panic. According to the U.S. Postal Service website, about 30 billion pieces of mail have been delivered since Sept. 1 1, yet only three pieces have been confirmed as contaminated with anthrax. This contrasts with media coverage, which has been fre- quent and sensational. Americans do not seem concerned, either. According to a recent Gallup poll, nine out of 10 Americans are going about their business as usual. Washington and Lee students certainly are. Fresh- men Laura Farrell said she is not worried. “What are they (the terrorists) going to do—put an- thrax in the Wal-Mart ads? I’m not scared.” W&L Security Director Mike Young has sent numerous messages to the university community with instructions on how to handle suspicious mail. In a message sent Oct. 31, Young said W&L has drafted a safety plan in case of a biochemical emergency. Young cautioned students, faculty and staff to be on alert for suspicious packages, and report them to University Secu- rity immediately. “While it is felt that the risk of a biochemical threat to our community is minimal, all faculty, staff and students should remain alert to that possibility,” Young wrote in his email. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said postal patrons should handle suspicious mail in a prudent manner. “Suspicious” mail includes packages with no return address, handwritten or poorly typed addresses, no named addressee, excessive post- age, and mail marked with any threatening lan- guage. The Center advises immediately covering the mail and contacting the authorities. W&L journalism ‘quests’ for global media ethics National Public Radio CEO Kevin Klose kicks off conference with public address in Lee Chapel on Friday; Conference an attempt to establish universal ethical standards BY LATRINA STOKES AssT. NEWS EDITOR Washington and Lee’s Depart- ment of Journalism cosponsored a conference in an attempt to begin de- veloping a set of common ethical standards for all journalists this weekend. The conference, entitled “Global Media: The Quest for Universal Ethical Standards,” is the second in a decade- long series conducted by U.S. colleges and universities. , As citizens of an increasingly broader world community, we can no longer afford to make decisions without considering their global im- pact on politics, economics and cul- ture. The mass media’s role in influ- encing those decisions is increas- ing as well. “The world is economically glo- bal, politically national and journal- istically provincial,” said Louis Hodges, Knight professor of jour- nalism. “We’ve got to do something about that.” International scholars gath- ered here to do just that for two days. Kevin Klose, president and chief executive officer of National Public Radio, kicked off the conference last Friday with a keynote address in Lee Chapel. Broadcasting is integrally tied to President Thomas Jefferson’s idea that one cannot be ignorant and free, Klose said. Citizen’s self government and self empowerment go hand in hand with open broad- cast forums. When mass genocides were con- ducted in Europe and Africa, the me- dia were controlled to create a single voice of xenophobia, fear and separa- tion, he said. This was only one example of broadcasting’s power to influence. This is why the U.S. government is presently broadcasting in the Middle East, Klose said. The U.S. is in a unique situation in which the state does not signifi- cantly support public radio, he added. Nor is public radio beholden to com- mercial interests; the listening public pays. Despite the American media’s in- dependence, all joumalists have com- mon problems in reporting, editing and investigating. Klose calls attention to the fact that the recent terrorist attacks prob- ably had roots in decisons that the American government made decades ago. “We look back at what hap- pened tocarry ourlselves foward,” he said. Klose said the media have a respoiisiblity to report the news as well as make historical connnections, mportant to not only Americans, but the restof the world as well. “We’ve all come from some- where else, by force or freedom, even Native Americans. We are all immi- grants to this country. We have iden- tities beyond our border,” Klose said in closing. “We are nothing or more or less, as great as a nation of immigrants with the capacity, to learn, expand and grow.” Scholars presented papers and discussed these problems in small sessions throughout the weekend. Despite minor setbacks, the con- ference made progress overall, said journalism professor Brian Richardson. The conference was not nearly as international in scope as the depart- ment had hoped it would be: Fear of travel into the U.S and financial prob- lems prevented several international guests from attending, Richardson said. Also, the colloquia scheduled before the conference were can- celed. The global ethics conference reflects the Washington and Lee University’s broadening perspec- tive, which has recently expanded with the global stewardship pro- gram. “You can’t look at the world with tunnel vision,” said Richardson. K101: Cotmtm-ni=,\rR.rt>.\t OCR::/Vol_104/WLURG39_RTP_20011105/WLURG39_RTP_20011105_002.2.txt Jain!-?&T»‘ (7. T. H by , W‘;-R“ am‘ :3 ;-‘i“~?t'v':&?i5—,Ll I V - 2 :'_-‘,=;N¢_}’.';"C.‘i'«s, V). PAGE 2€v‘f.lV 3 i MONDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2001 Dispatches from security: Mike Young reports on terrorism fr)ll?T1~)TCtl).\‘ OUR MAN ox THF. r;RoUxD. Mike Young oversees many aspects of Washington and Lee’s security plan. If you encounter mail that may have a light coating of a powdery substance or is otherwise suspicious: 1) Do not open it 2) Call University Security (X8999) 3) Wash hands with soap and water 4) List all persons who have touched the letter/ package with contact information. Corrrcnos The last issue incorrectly switched Ray Waity and Stan Jackson’s picture identifications news. LEXINGTON COE_]j'EE- -‘L'ri"¢.r.'r~+'!eIr;9r- £55-hm-r .I'«'u‘r._',-' on the Opinions page. It is the policy of the Ring- tum Phi to accurately report the Security director announces safety plan for biochemical emergency This message is to let you know that the University has formulated a safety plan for implementation in the case of biochemical emergency. W&L Safety and Security personnel met recently with members of the Virginia Health Department, Stonewall Jackson Hospital, Rockbridge County Emergency Services, and local law enforcement agencies to plan for any event involving hazardous mate- rial threats to public safety. While it is felt that the risk of a biochemical threat to our community is minimal, all faculty, staff and students should remain alert to that possibility. Continue to check your mail and packages for any unusual or suspicious items. Should you discover an item that appears to be suspicious, please notify University Security at X8999 im- mediately. The Security Department will respond and take the appropriate action. Do not handle or open the suspi- cious item. Thank you for your cooperation in these in- creasingly difficult times. What makes mail ‘suspicious’? Common sense and a heightened awareness will guide you in deciding that a package is suspicious. Items that can make a letter or package suspicious include: 1) Restrictive markings (“Personal”) 2) Postmark city different from return address 3) Fictitious, unfamiliar or no return address 4) Excessive postage 5) Address to title only (i.e., Vice President) 6) Wrong title with name 7) Badly typed or written addresses 8) Misspelled words 9) Rigid or bulky 10) Protruding wires 1 1) Strange odor 12) Oily stains on wrapping or lopsided package Thank you. Mike Young, director of security Flash Floyd, Manager of Universitys Services We encourage our readers to report any fact errors to phi @wlu.edu ' ESPRESSO ' CAPPUCCIND * BAGEL3 * MUFFINS + CR.OISSA.N'T5 9 WEST WASHINGTON STREET‘ LEEEINGTON - &64-6586 RIGEFIELD W&L awarded national safety grant to reduce abusive drinking Washington and Lee University is one of five col- leges nationally awarded a grant from the National High- way Traffic Safety Administration and the North-Ameri- can Interfratemity Conference to help schools across the country find ways to reduce high risk drinking among students in Greek organizations. W&L was selected to participate in the program over 20 colleges, based on the strength of its application, the institution’s support for sororities and fraternities and the University’s ongoing efforts to shift the focus of Greek organizations from social events to broader fraternal pur- poses. PBS stations airing new Robert E. Lee , documentary by W&L alumnus Public Broadcasting System stations across the coun- try began airing Nov. l the new documentary Lee: Beyond the Battles produced by Washington and Lee University alumnus W. Drew Perkins and his Rubicon Productions. The program takes a personal, in-depth look at Rob- ert E. Lee in his roles as son, husband, father, soldier, post—Civil War peacemaker and president at the Lexing- ton, Va. college that now bears his name. Several Washington and Lee faculty members pro- vided key assistance to Rubicon Productions, including Ted DeLaney., associate professor of history, Holt Mer- chant, professor of history, and Robert J. de Maria, pro- fessor of journalism. Individual PBS stations will determine the broad- _ cast dates and times of Lee: Beyond the Battles. Perkins recommends viewers check their local station’s sched- ules. —courtesy wlu.edu Women’s Forum hooks up Elizabeth Marquardt, affiliate scholar at the Institute for American Values and co-author of a ground-breaking study on college women’s attitudes about sex and dating on campus, will lead a talk titled “Hooking Up, Hanging Out, and Hoping for Mr. Right: College Women on Dating and Mating Today.” Marquardt will discuss the results of her study, which asks how college women feel about hooking up and how it relates to their goals for the future when it comes to long term commitment or marriage. The talk will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 7 at 7:30 PM. in Lee Chapel. Harb’s Bistro closed Harb’s Bistro on Washington Street closed Nov. 1 and will reopen under new management at an undisclosed date. --counesy Lexington News-Gazette 'Ibday~ Nov. 5 — 30—Study Abroad Photo Exhibit. Leybum Library Main Lobby. Winners to be announced Nov. 15. 7:30 p.m.—Lecture. “Poverty in Contemporary Poland: A Legacy of Communism or a By- Product of Transition?” Dr. Elzbieta Tarkowska, visiting scholar from Yale University. Northen Auditorium. 8 p.m.—Theatre Series. “The Colored Museum” by George C. Wolfe. Directed by Marshall McAdden. Johnson Theatre, Lenfest Center. 8:30 p.m.——Java at the GHQ. Guy Smiley Blues Exchange. 'I\1esday, Nov. 6 ’ Election Day. 8 p.rrt———Theatre Series. “Spinning Into Butter” by Rebeoca Gilman DirectedbyTomZiegler.JolmsonTheatre,Ler1festCenter. Wednesday, Nov. 7 7:30 p.m.—Women’s Forum Lecture. “Hooking up, Hang- ing Out, and Hoping for Mr. Right: College Women on Dat- ing and Mating Today,” Elizabeth Marquardt. Lee Chapel. 7:30 p.m.—Student Panel Discussion to address Latin American culture. Panelists have been asked to answer ques- tions in Spanish. Northen Auditorium, Leybum Library. 8 p.m.—Theatre Series. “The Colored Museum” by George C. Wolfe. Directed by Marshall McAdden. Johnson Theatre, Lenfest Center. 8 p.m.—AA meeting. Fairfax Lounge. Thursday, Nov. 8 8p.m—UniversityJanFJisemble Kella”Iheatre,LenfestCenter. 8 p.m——Theatre Series. “Spinning Into Butter” by Rebecca Gilman Directedby Tom Ziegler. Johnson 'Iheatre, LenfestCenter. CRIME REPORT Oct. 22 - Nov. 2 Friday, Oct. 26 Citations: Stolen laptop. Laptop re- 2 Speeding ported missing from Leybum 2Drunk in Public Library. study carrel. Sus- 3 Minor in Possessiqiected to have been taken be- tween 11 A.M. and 4 P.M. Sunday, Oct. 28 Stolen laptop. Laptop re- ported missing from Leybum Li- brary study room. Last seen Fri- Information compiled from University Security and the Lexington Police Dept. 9 OCR::/Vol_104/WLURG39_RTP_20011105/WLURG39_RTP_20011105_003.2.txt 4) MONDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2001 Want your country to work out? Exercise your franchise We at Washington and Lee like to brag about our superhuman feats of procastination. “I didn’t start studying for that test until the night before it was due.” “I didn’t start compiling the data base un- til the last week of the term.” “I didn’t start writing the staff editorial until two o’clock in Monday morning.” The chorus of examples makes it easy to believe that there’s a good excuse for apathy. We can pretend that it’s for efficency’s sake: we want to fit the work in the minimum amount of time necessary for its completion. Right. The real reason, however, is that imme- diate gratification distracts us: we sacrifice long-term goals for short—term pleasures. The economics examination takes a back seat to Mario Kart and Killian’s Irish Red. An often excused—away responsibility is voting. After all, your parents get your grades, not your voting participation records. Agreed, voting can sometimes be tiresome and even a little ugly: just look at the past fresh- man E.C. election. A blizzard of trite or incom- prehensible signs descended around the fresh- men dormitories like a blizzard of filthy snow. Who can forget: “Vote so—and-so because he likes salmon,” “Remember the mullet,” and “So-and-so is like really the best, really !” The antics of our youngest class shouldn’t obscure the significance of the vote, however. It’s easy to wax melodramatic. Elections are the foundation of democracy and the sacra- ment of our civic religion. It is what sets the United States above and apart from the count- less dictatorships, juntas, single-party rule, mon- archies and tyrannies that pockmark the globe. What voting often means, however, is that you can try to get the person you prefer elected. Or, alternately, prevent the election of the per- son you most dislike. Last century, on average 62,000 Ameri- can soldiers died each year in declared wars. They sacrificed theirs to preserve our way of life, to protect your right to vote. Tomorrow, vote for governor if you’re eli- gible. If you have been thus far negligent, reg- ister as soon as you can. The W&L registrar has some helpful information, and a great deal of other helpful material has been published. UOTE OF THE WEEK: YOU JUST LIKE THE THOUGHT OF MY BOOZY BREATH ALL OVER YOUR BODY. — ANONYMOUS PHI AssOcIATE EDITOR TO MAN T HE PHI Ed i t0r-irl-chief Matthew B. McDermott Associate Editor Mike Agnello News Editor Alison Trinidad Asst. News Editor Latrina Stokes Opinions Editor Brett T, Kirwan Asst. Opinions Editor AndrewLat;imer Sports Editor Jeremy Franklin Asst. Sports Editor Dave C1-owel] - Layout Editor KatieH0we]l Photo Editor MaryGuy Photographers MegFe1-1-ara J eb Brooks Business Manager Paul Seifert Asst. Business Manager Emily Barker Advertising Manager Rober-tF]oyd William Litton Brian Castleberry Circulation Director Charlie Tonelli The Ring-tum Phi is published Mondays during the undergraduate school year at Washington and Lee Univer- sity, Lexington, Virginia. The Washington and Lee Publi- cations Board elects the Editor-in-chief, but The Ring- tum Phi is otherwise independent. The Ring-tum Phi welcomes all responsible submis- sions and letters. All submissions must be e—mailed to phi@wlu.edu or in the University Center mailbox by 5 p.m. Friday to appear in the following week’s edition. The Ring-tum Phi reserves the right to edit submissions for con- tent and length. Letters and columns do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Ring-tum Phi Editorial Board. Ad- vertising does not reflect the opinions of The Ring—tum Phi or its staff. This newspaper observes current court defini- tions of libel and obscenity. The Ring-tum Phi Mailing Address: University Center Washington and Lee University Lexington, Virginia 24450 Street Address: 31 Washington Street Lexington, Virginia 24450 Telephone: (540) 462-4060 Fax: (540) 462-4059 Email: phi@wlu.edu http://phi.wlu.erlu TEE Rl.§£(}~’l"I.??tI PEI PINIONS Conservatism wins war of ideas Perhaps the most interesting statement that President Walesa made last Tuesday was in response to the question concerning the immense elec- toral gains ex—communists have made in many former Warsaw Pact countries. In fact, the last election in Poland was so decisive that Solidarity disbanded its politcal party and will now function only as a labor union. Surprisingly, Walesa expressed no dismay or anger at the election re- sults. Conversely, he seemed per- fectly happy. Why? How could he possibly be at ease with the return to power of those whom he deposed? Aside from the joke he made about Polish Communists being like radishes—— only red on the outside—— Walesa stated that the ex—communists had in fact adopted the platform of Solidarity and won by promising to do it only better, not differently. In his speech, Walesa communi- cated a sense of predestination. He seemed to believe that world events, specifically the fall of Communism, are bound to happen and will come about as a matter of course. He seemed to almost have been saying, “Of course the communists have adopted our ideals. Solidarity was bound to be to- tally victorious.” Walesa knows that the free—mar— ket, private property, respect for hu- man rights and freedom are better ideas than collectivization, authoritarianism, the violation of hu- man rights and blatant disregard for human life. He was convinced that his 3 ideas would win and 3 believed that they " overcame, not neces- sarily because of his involvement, but simply because they are better ideas and were meant to win. Perhaps his faith led him to believe that God wouldn’t allow such evil to prevail. Whatever the reason, be it Provi- dence or merely societal evolution, this adoption by communists of free-mar- ket and democratic ideals is an example of the ultimate victory of conservative and classicly liberal ideals. Current politics abound with other examples of the victory of con- Letters to the Editor Halloween costume was insensitive Dear Editor, j RIGHT OF THE AISLE BREITT. KIRWAN OPINIONS EDIIOR EMAIL IHOrIo lll,l'SI‘M1IOl\' MARY GLW/ The Ring—t1m1Phi Despite all the efforts our country has made in the last century to create a more tolerant society, despite all the challenges that this nation has overcome, despite the recent unifying surge of patriotism spawned by the terror- ists attacks, some individuals on our campus continue to be egregiously insensitive by offending and alienating those unlike themselves. The most recent incident to which I refer occurred on Halloween night. A group of costumed students walked into the Co-op. One of them was wearing blackface. I thought that I was seeing wrong. I must have been grossly mistaken. But, indeed, there he was with black- ened skin and flaming-red lips. There were no words to describe what I felt at that moment, nor could the incredulous look on my face really convey my feelings. I had to turn to a friend and ask what year we were living in 1901 , surely not 2001. From where had this Sambo figure come? After several others began to stare, he offered an excuse: “I’m the Famous Jet Jackson,” an African Ameri- can character from a Disney television series. The disbelief quickly escalated to rage. As we tried to Had he really thought so little of my race that he would blatantly, brazenly display his contempt and disrespect? I considered that in the spirit of Halloween, this paint was part an innocent costume. Then I thought that he must not realize what kind of stigma is attached to that makeup. Angrily, I dismissed both these possibilities. His response showed that he was very much aware of the social implications of what he had done. So I asked myself why anyone would leave his house or dorm room with the knowledge that he could deeply offend an entire group of people on campus, not limited to those with black skin. No matter his intention, to go out in public wearing blackface was a slap in the face for anyone who would wish every member of this community to be comfortable, if not accepted, on this campus. Though yearly editorials bespeak the evils of diver- sity and tolerance, I cannot help but think that this cam- pus needs these things all the more after this occurrence. Sincerely, Latrina Stokes ‘02 See LETTERS, Page 5 PAGE 3 ‘Net restrictions: It could be worse Students come to college with certain expectations. Here we anticipate access to a world—class curriculum, top—notch professors, an exquisitely beautiful campus, and reasonable food in the dining hall. Within the last few years, something else has been added to that list: lightning-quick Internet ac- cess. We want our web pages, songs, movies, and programs, and we want them now. The reason for the surge in ‘Net use is hardly surprising. By now, even novice users know that when they want a file, they have KaZaA, Morpheus, BearShare, LimeWire, and Audiogalaxy all at their dis- posal. Merely type in the title of a popular movie or song and, within a matter of seconds, you have a list of files and begin downloading. Since just about anyone with minimal computer knowl- edge can use these services, just about everyone does. Yet while the Internet may seem free to users in the dormitories, the people behind the scenes know a much harsher reality: our networks choked with traffic and there’s no relief in sight. Director of Uni- versity Computing John Stuckey raised a consider- able amount of student ire on Thursday with the decision to monitor and limit file sharing. However, in comparison to what restrictions could have been implemented, Washington and Lee’s network poli- cies are far more student—friendly than they seem. The scenario is not unique to Lexington. Other col- leges have noted that, unlike in previous years, freshmen arrived in their dormitories ready to hitch a ride on the peer- to-peer file sharing revolution. Systems that ran at 70—to-80 percent capacity last year pegged at 100 percent within the first day of school and haven’t come down since. In one example, the University of Tennessee at Knoxville reported that KaZaA transfers accounted for half of all its residential download traffic and three- quarters of all uploads. The University of Denver, even after it doubled its total bandwidth over the summer, still could not satisfy the incredible student desire for songs and movies. Even the venerable Stanford Uni- versity found itself at a loss when demand for band- width far outstripped supply. The results: slower delivery of e-mail, web pages that just refuse to load, students who can’t do research, and professors who can’t access lecture material. And with a slew of more high—bandwidth users on the verge of being added upon the completion of the wireless project out at Davidson Park, the situations bound to grow worse by the end of the year. In light of these trends, the university had good reason to announce on Thursday its decision to curtail peer-to-peer file sharing. They decided upon a “packet shaping” solution, which involves a piece of software or hardware that can prioritize academic data over en- tertainment. In other words, web pages and e-mail func- tions will perform far quicker while MP3s, movies, and other non-school—related files will download slower. While the days of laissez-faire Internet access may be behind us. we at Washington and Lee are far better off than many other schools around the nation. For instance, Loyola College of Baltimore went so far as to ban all peer-to-peer applications with an electronic firewall. The University of Delaware allots each student one gigabyte of activity per day; once the cutoff point is reached, no more access, academic or otherwise. Other schools made the move to outlaw peer-to- peer sharing and then prosecute individual cases be- fore their student judicial councilsl Just think if down- loading and distributing copyrighted material were a violation of the Honor System and violators were brought before the EC; we would possibly have to part with over half of our population. Some institutions went even farther. The Univer- sity of Pennsylvania’s final solution was to take the “free” out of “free Internet access” by charging $180 per year to defray the enormous costs of bandwidth. It’s safe to say that the entire college would react vio- lently if we had to go that route some day. While I haven’t heard of any college going this far, I would not be surprised if we hear about ac- cess being charged by the hour (like long distance telephone calls) or amount of data transferred. With costs of maintaining a second T3 line al- ready topping $5,000 per month, that “telecommu- nications surcharge” option must have looked tempting to the administration. Thankfully, they chose a much more palatable method of reigning in recreational Internet use. So rest easy; there will be no Spanish Inquisition, no firewalls and no sweeping bans. Our entertainment files may get to us a bit slower, but considering the alternatives University computing could have taken, that hardly seems like an inconvenience at all. COGENT COMMENTARY AND_I_tE\>r LATIMER ‘O5 “It’s a big difference from the no .” --Steve Thome, JMU ‘02 “Itwasoneoftliethirigstliat persuadedmetooomehere.” --Kathy Wang, ‘05 l “They say it’s there, butl really don’t think so.” -—Akwugo Onuekwusi, ‘05 “Most of the time, they try to avoid us.” -—Bob Downey, VMI ‘O4 “Itcreatesamorefiiendly environmentforstlidents.” —-Joseph Harouni, ‘O5 OCR::/Vol_104/WLURG39_RTP_20011105/WLURG39_RTP_20011105_004.2.txt PAGE 4 MONDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2001 Extended, updated course catalogue for Winter Term unveiled Traditional Washington and Lee education becomes even more wel/-rounded with such diverse offerings as Sarcasm 101, Self Reliance 100 With all we complain about here, there’s no denying the fact that indeed, Washington and Lee does provide a stellar education. The structure of the majors and their respective requirements are key to building a strong foun— dation on which to pursue a career. However, there are some classes that, given the in- terests and attitudes of the student body, should be of- fered here. Of course, knowing how to fill out a balance sheet will be unduly useful in the later rounds. But what about the other things that obstruct the typical student’s way to total enlightenment? I’ve thus constructed a list of the Top 10 Classes W&L should offer, in order to fully and completely educate its students. Pick-Up Lines 230: An Intermediate Level Course on The Art of the Pick—Up. I swear to God, someone once asked my friend if she had “ever seen a black light before.” I think most people have the general idea, that the ultimate goal is to get ass, so this course should be just a module in fine—tuning these skills. Other pick-up lines that will done away with in this course include, “Have the seen the molding in my room?” “Here,just leave your coat in my room so it won’t get lost; you can get it later,” and “I’ll walk you back home, Lexington is pretty shady this time of year.” SelfReliance 100: An Introduction to Doing Things By and For Yourself. This one’s pretty self-explanatory. I won’t go into the holier—than-thou details of this one, but, at the risk of waxing cliché, solitude, in modera- tion, indeed can be a virtue. College Appreciation 380: A Seminar on Relishing Your Charmed Existence. This is an advanced course for those who realize that W&L isn’t really as bad as our campus newspapers make it sound. Self-Deprecation 210: A Course on Laughing at Your- self. Some people just take themselves way too seriously. 7 “ KRIS POLLINA ‘()3 This is course is designed for those who either a.) have not yet come to the conclusion that they are not as bad- ass as they once thought, or b.) people who have not learned the fine art of taking things in stride. Wal-Mart in Moderation: Keeping trips and expenses in check. This course focuses intently on A; NOR ’S EXPOSURE how to keep trips to a minimum, in addi- tion to studying the addiction patterns of students unable to keep their checks be- low $50 each time. In addition to this, the course will include a small section on minimizing trips to Subway and Wendy’s. GroupWise & Snood: How Much is Too Much. This course outlines the rise and fall students addicted to per- petual e—mail checks, or even worse, the psychoactive drug of Snood.com. This class culminates in a senior the- sis of erasing Snood from the computer’s memory. Milking the C-School: How To Succeed in Business Without Really Trying. Requirement for the Major. This course deals with the art of not pulling out hairs about internships and the like, but rathers, encourages students to perfect the art of BS. AA. Gen Ed. Mnemonic Skills 10]: Forced Recollection of Feigned Forgetfulness. This class teaches its students to abandon the myth of blacking out, and urges them to admit to their actions, however large a monument to idiocy they may be. Sarcasm 101: An Introduction to Understanding Dry Humor. A lot of people here fail to demonstrate an ability to differentiate between seriousness and satire. This class could introduce the aforementioned folks to the highly revered skill of sarcasm. Combining both legitimate courses with said sugges- tions could allow W&L’s already brilliant populace to reap the benefits of a comprehensive education. Although it would require some changes to the Course Catalogue, each class could very well merit its own department. The only problem would be finding professors. GP ‘ro-Family’ right shd Couursv or AP UNITER, NOT A DIVIDER: Bush has made great strides with his AIDS policy and political appointments. Many social conservatives within the Republican Party cannot believe what they see. It has slowly become more and more apparent that the many members of the GOP, including President Bush, are openly accepting the gay and lesbian popu- lation as a viable political ally. With this trend the tired “pro-family” fac- tion of the Republican Party feels betrayed by their own leaders. For- give me ifl take a little pleasure in this. In lieu of the discourse I began with the issue of homosexuality within the Virginia gubernatorial race a few weeks ago, I was very happy to see an article by David Crary in the Washing- ton Post this week entitled, “Bush Ad- ministration Broadens Gay Overtures.” A delightful shock from our Re- publican President, who received so much support from the conservative right during his campaign, has been certain appointments his administra- tion has made. acknowledge Since taking office, Bush has appointed openly gay men to the both the head of the Office of Na- tional AIDS Policy and as Ambas- sador to Romania, the highest ap- pointments for open gays in a Re- publican Administration ever. What’s more, some conserva- tives were particularly angry that the partner of the Romanian Ambas- sador Michael Guest was acknowl- edged by Secretary of State Colin Powell during his swearing-in cer- emony last month. New Director of AIDS Policy Scott Evertz is aware of the con- servative ire following his appoint- ment as well, but is very pleased with Bush at this point. “The average American isn’t at a point where they can endorse gay marriage or domestic partner- ships — the President isn’t endors- ing those concepts at this point. But does he believe gays and les- bians ought to be treated with dig- nity and respect? Yes,” Evertz said in a statement to the Post. Moreover, GOP action in the gay movement has not been cen- tralized to the District alone. Sen. Gordon Smith of Oregon spoke Oct. how Bush has backed social conscience 6 at the annual dinner of the Hu- man Rights Campaign, a major gay- rights advocacy group. Gays also cheered the announce- ment by Republican New York Gover- nor George Pataki when he stated that partners of gays killed in the World Trade Center attack in Sep- tember would qualify for state aid. Many social groups are encour- aged by these movements, and wish the President would continue to reach out to the gay and lesbian community. “Step by step, the administration can signal to voters that they are fair- minded. They are on the right path to getting there,” said Winnie Stachelberg, the Human Rights Campaign’s political director. While the Bush administration does still have a way to go on social policy for gays and lesbians, it is very encouraging to see them taking a de- parture from the out—dated, close- minded views of the pro-family con- servative right. These organizations, despite the obvious evidence within social trends around them, refuse to acknowledge that American has LEFT OF CENTER NICK RAMSEY ‘()3 moved ‘past the heterogeneous, nuclear family filled population of the 1950’s. People like Kenneth Connor, president of the Family Research Council, a right—wing social organiza- tion, have complained of Bush’s “implicit endorsement of the homosexual political agenda.” Also, the Christian organiza- tion Focus on the Family said the aforementioned recent political ap- pointments in Washington have created “confusion and frustration for millions of pro-family, social conservatives.” However, in a party divided against itself, there are those working to boost gay participation in Republi- can politics. Charles Francis, a gay public relations executive and long- time friend of Bush, founded the Re- publican Unity Coalition in January. Francis said of his friend, “From Day One, George Bush said he’s a uniter, not a divider — it’s turned out to be more than true. For the Family Research Council and others to attack him for being a uniter is to completely miss the point of his Presidency.” Francis’ coalition says it seeks only to make sexual orientation a “non-issue” in the GOP, not any spe- cial privileges for gays. Dale Carpenter, a University of Minnesota Law Professor and scholar of gay politics best char- acterized the situation. “The new reality is that George Bush is do- ing about as much as he can, given the political restraints in the party to equalize things for gay Americans.” Carpenter went on to say, “Now there are gay—positive things coming from their own leader, and it’s just harder to oppose. It’s like Nixon go- ing to China, or a southerner signing the Civil Rights Act of 1964.” Thus, social conservatives are in a bind. Now is the time to buck—up and learn that the American social conscience is evolving, like it or not. I, for one, am happy to see these changes. Current trends in Washing- ton and the failure of Mark Earley’s socially-backwards campaign here in Virginia are evidence of this social change. Slowly, America is making more and more steps towards the uni- versal equality that should already be a reality. I-I-is B3cl<...0v~ly 3+ Council Tiravel AMAZING SALE S+udev~+ / You-I-in Teacher 5 Days Only! Nov. 6-10! 20 European Cities Available. NYC to LONDON CHI to DUBLIN $133 $95 LAX to PARIS $168 'FARES ARE ONE WAY, ROUND TRIP FARES ALSO AVAILABLE. Tickets are subject to availability and must be paid in full at time of booking. Tickets are non-refundable. Taxes and fees are extra. Additional restrictions and blackout dates apply. ISIC, ITIC and IYTC card required. Valid for departure through March 2002. 1 -800-ZCOUNCIL www.counciItrave|.com Call 24 hrs: (EST) 8am Tues. Nov. 6 - 12am Fri. Nov. 9 & 10am - 7pm Sat. Nov 10. Fraternities * Sororities * Clubs * Studente Groups Earn $1000-$2000 this semester with the easy Campusfundraiser.com three hour fundraising event. Does not involve credit card applications. Fundraising dates are filling quickly, so call today! Contact Campusfundraiser.com at (888) 923- 3238, or visit www. campusfundraiser.com lwmkdbmwaihhflms 9:00 p.m. C-school Room 221 Be There. OCR::/Vol_104/WLURG39_RTP_20011105/WLURG39_RTP_20011105_005.2.txt MONDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2001 Readers protest favorable sweatshop v" Free-market fa//acy blinds Kirwan to reality of sweatshops and development Dear Editor, Brett Kirwan is to be pitied, not blamed, for his recent outburst in the Oct. 29th issue .of The Ring-tum Phi. Kirwan has absorbed all too well the rhetoric of the free- market fundamentalists who promote a world economic order that is flawed at best and catastrophically danger- ous at worst.-In his critique of the anti-sweatshop move- ment his naivete is glaring. It is painfully obvious when he states, “sweatshops aren’t nearly as bad as they’re made out to be” that he lacks any true knowledge of the lived reality that sweatshop workers face My sense is that Kirwan’s assertions and economic analysis are borne out of an experience that is limited to a world of position and privilege. (If you are enrolled at W&L, you are in a position of privilege, as only 1 percent of the world has a college education.) Kirwan’s historical analysis of the development of the U.S. economy is also limited. The “victory over sweat- shops” (which has not really happened, go to L.A. or NYC and you can see they are alive and thriving) on U.S. soil was not the result of growth and “economic feasibil- ity.” The creation of the eight—hour workday, payment of health benefits, weekends (I am sure we all value these), elimination of child labor and other worker protections were not gifts from the bourgeois. The respect for worker and human rights in the U.S. was a long, drawn-out and hard fought battle by local, national and international organized labor. “Today, cheap, unskilled labor is scarce in the United States, so American corporations bring the opportunity for advancement to the countries where it is available.” This statement completely exposes Mr. Kirwan’s lack of understanding of the motives for U.S. multinationals mov- ing their operations abroad. There is one motive: maximi- zation of profit. A telephone conversation with a former sportshoe industry executive made this all to clear to me. He said, “Do not let anyone at Nike or the other shoe companies tell you that they were ‘driven’ over to Indone- sia or anywhere else because of competition or other rea- sons. There is one reason they are there, greed.” Cer- tainly Kirwan cannot be foolish enough to believe that U.S. multinationals are in the business of development and providing “opportunity for advancement.” If Kirwan is truly committed to the development model that he puts forth I would invite him to travel to a developing country and live and work with women, men and children who toil in the sweatshops making goods for export. Surely he would feel that living and working in conditions such as these would be well worth the suffering since, by his theoriz- ing, it will eventually lead to economic prosperity. Yes, the free-market fundamentalist theory looks quite inviting when you are in the global elite. But the waters PAGE 5 run a little murkier when you are at the bottom of capitalism’s food chain. When you are ready to “flip the script” and live with the poor as the poor live, then one might find it possible to take arguments for their eco- nomic development seriously. Until that time comes, enjoy the bands and beer in ' the Red Square and ultimate frisbee on the Colonnade. Yes, ignorance is truly bliss. Sincerely, . Jim Keady Co—founder and Director of Educating for Justice Conservatives should get jobs Dear Editor, It is obvious that your Right of the Aisle columnist, Brett Kirwan, has not yet taken an American history class or ever had a job. He needs to look up “Triangle Shirtwaist Factory” on the intemet, and look at the pictures of nice Jewish girls falling out of the sky in New York of 1910, burned, suicid- ing in that familiar way out of the sweatshop they worked in for pennies a day. Out here in San Diego, I could get him some real work for a real man, making burritos or digging ditches for mini- mum wage, so he could find out just what it means to work for nothing; he could have that real immigrant experience he’s so proud of. Of course he wouldn’t last long- too slow, too fragile, he would probably cut off one of his fingers in a couple of days, or hurt his delicate conservative back with real work. My answer to all you ivory tower intellectual conserva- tives: get a job. Sincerely, Jim Ricker San Diego State Students Against Sweatshops USAS devoid of communist overtones DearEditor, Before writing his article on sweatshops, Kirwan con- tacted me, the founder of the W&L chapter of United Students Against Sweatshops (USAS), for more informa- tion on the organization. Although he did articulate some purposes of our organization, I believe that he in fact grossly misinterpreted or just plain missed other purposes. First of all, by focusing on the first sentence of the first principle of USAS and ignoring the other three he gives a distorted View of the organization’s vision. He claims that the phrasing “We work in solidarity with work- ing people’s struggles” implies a communist worldview. Obviously, he has not understood or seen the fourth prin- ciple of USAS, which is “We strive to act democratically.” interpretation WHISTLE WHILE YOU WORK: Despite the obvious usefulness of sweatshops, many claim corproate exploitation and campaign for their abolition. The fourth principle of USAS goes on to say that the power of USAS is ultimately an individual power—that self-evaluation and personal responsibility must come before any sort of collective struggle. The third principle of USAS emphasizes the autonomy of each participant campus and individual. Obviously, the organization is a grassroots democratic movement. Nowhere in the prin- ciples is Marxism mentioned, much less promoted. The fact that I and others believe that we should struggle with oppressed workers does not imply that we wish to stage an armed revolution. Martin Luther King, J r., struggled in solidarity with African-Americans to achieve his goals. No one would argue that he was a Marxist, rather, he is a hero of democracy. Secondly, Kirwan misrepresented USAS’ position on globalization. In response to the question, “Are we ask- ing that companies move their production back to the US?” the FAQ on the USAS website states, “NO! We believe that workers in developing countries deserve jobs that will actually contribute to development, not create a cycle of impoverishment and abuse, as sweatshop jobs do.” Also, Kirwan’s article ignores the fact that many of the sweatshops that USAS is working against are located within the United States. I also dispute Kirwan’s claim that “sweatshops aren’t nearly as bad as they’re made out to be.” He simply hasn’t done his research. To me, before sweatshops are ever an economic issue, they are a human rights issue. Sweatshops are a much more complex issue that the cut—and—dry eco- nomic one that Kirwan imagines. Sweatshops verbally hu- miliate workers, fence in workers under armed guard, force workers to work 48-hour shifts during holiday seasons, pol- lute the drinking waters of workers, pay women less than men, use unsafe equipment, and fire workers injured by said equipment. It concerns me that Kirwan is wonied about au- thoritarian govemments, but not authoritarian employers that are essentially slaveowners. I work against sweatshops be- cause I support human rights in all situations. Finally, I must emphasize that what we are asking for is not unreasonable for American companies. Currently, about 3 cents of a $15 college T—shirt goes to the workers who produced it. Seventy—five percent of the cost of the T-shirt is profit for the manufacturer and retailer. We are not asking that companies give up profits, just that they respect the dedication and humanity of their workers. Sincerely, Susan Somers ‘O5 improve transportatt lnfographic by Katie l‘lOWCll/T/it’ Ring-rm Poi Information collected by Alison Trinidad/Tin» Rirrg-rm P/J1‘ OCR::/Vol_104/WLURG39_RTP_20011105/WLURG39_RTP_20011105_006.2.txt PAGE 6 “Monsters Inc.’’ full 0 disappointmen 3 BY MIKE GEORGE STAFF WRITER The great thing about animated movies these days is their ability to appeal to both children and adults. Pixar, which produces computer animated features for Disney, seems to be the standard bearer for this trend, releasing clever films like A Bugs Life and the two Toy Story films. These films were witty, charming, and endearing, with characters that I still remember. They are the kind of films you want to take younger siblings to, because you know you’ll enjoy them as much as they do. When I stepped into Monsters, Inc., I expected to be entertained and not annoyed. I expected to be wrapped up in a film with sympathetic and endearing characters. I expected, at the very least, to laugh. As much as I expected this film to be a step up from previ- ous Pixar features, it did not deliver. The concept of Monsters, Inc. is not the problem. Basically, the story tries to explain the old story of the monster in the closet, a common experience of child- hood. Mike and Sully, two monsters who live in the city of Monstopolis, work for Monsters, Inc., a giant corporation which collects the screams of children and converts them to energy. Sully is the most frightening monster working for the company, but his supremacy is being challenged by Reggie, a reptilian creature who can blend like a chameleon into any surface he touches. When a human child finds her way into the world of the monsters, Mike and Sully must get her home with- out the company and the human-wary world around them noticing. Along the way, Sully and Mike learn how to accept those who are different and that evil is not always where you expect it. While Monsters, Inc. is charming to a degree, I can’t help but find it predictable. The creators try to sympa- thize with the problems kids face, like being appreci- ated in a world of adult. In the process, however, they alienate adults from a concept that if done properly would have brought parents and kids together. Another problem I had with this film was that it was too predictable. You pretty much knew how it was go- ing to turn out from the beginning. Recently, Disney films seem to center around‘ accepting the differences of others. Monsters, Inc. was another rehash of this tired ideal. Along with this conceptual problem, allu- sions to an oppressive’ government and corporate greed were all too familiar. I think the voice talent in this film, however, was excellent. Billy Crystal, John Goodman, and Steve Buscemi work well together, bringing comic timing and wit to their characters. As much as the film was filled with talent, I found it flat. The creators spent too much time on animation (which was, I admit, truly exceptional) instead of the sophistication of the plot. Truly harrow- ing sequences and amazing animated effects do not make up for a story that, in my mind, has something missing. It’s worth taking a younger sibling to, but don’t expect to be entertained. I would suggest a theatre that allows pillows. Tiilii RENIIE-"§"£_ji.\i PIII KATIE HO\tEII.A\I)MmIIE\vMcDEItIIOrr SLl’ER\«I§H\‘G PAGE EDIIORS EAIAIE PHl@\VIL’.l~I)U MONDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2001 PUMPKIN PATCHES PH()'l'OS BY I\l-\It\' GI T A\I) :\IF,G RRAIH/T/)6 Rivet////)1P/Ji W&L ‘Toughman’ boxes in Lewisburg, W.Va. BYMAT1" COURSEN STAFF \V'RI'I‘ER A new first for a Washington and Lee student occurred last Friday night. Junior Matthew Conners participated in the box- ing competition known as Toughman. Sponsored by Budweiser and the FX network, - Toughman is an amateur box- ing tournament conducted in 44 states and abroad. Fighters undergo pre- fight physicals and are supervised closely by EMTs and physicians during the contest. In addition, the fighters must wear protective . head gear, mouthpieces, ‘ groin protection, and 16-ounce gloves in an effort to remain as safe as possible. As the of- ficial Toughman website claims: “There are no pre—determined winners: every man and woman is fighting for fame and glory, in front of people they know, and a chance to advance to regional events and, ultimately, to the World Cham- CONORS. pionship on Pay Per View.” On a whim, Conners applied via mail—in application and was suipiised to see a rather quick return from Toughman. He was noti- fied that his first contest was scheduled for November 2 at 8:00 p.m.at West Virginia State Fairgrounds in Lewisburg. W.Va. Conners, a former amateur kickboxer, was excited for the event and eager to determine whether his experience in the ring would afford him an advantage in the contest. The official rules state that no professional boxers or amateurs with more than 5 wins in the last 5 years are allowed to compete in the two-day elimina- tion tournament. Because Conners has not fought since he was a young teenager, he was cleared to participate. This was the first time a W&L student has participated in a sanctioned amateur boxing tournament, and the University was certainly represented well. In support of their brother, Connors’ fraternity sent nearly 40 students to the event, which was over 80 miles away on Interstate 64. In ad- dition to Conner’s raucous fan base, nearly 2000 local spectators came in droves to see their high school quarterback or local fireman compete. Freshmen and alumni alike cheered for Conners as he bobbed and weaved his way to a unanimously de- cided victory after the full 3-one minute I REALLY AM 21, I SWEAR: Agnello turns his discriminating palate to Scot1and’s greatest treasure, single-malt scotch. BY MIKE AGNELLO ASSOCIATE EDITOR In the spirit of the Mike’s Pub column that appeared in the Phi last year, I, a different Mike, will review those lively liba- tions that fail to grace our Natty—soaked gizzards. This week, Itake on the granddaddy of all hard liquor: single-malt scotch. Single—malts, as opposed to blended scotch, utilize a single malt during the distilling process, and do not include any grain whisky. Blends can be as much as 80% grain. Since this is my first colurrm, I thought it might behoove my readers to learn how to taste scotch properly. Scots prefer to taste their spirits in dram glasses, which are little more than square shooters. But tuck away those memories of playing quarters at the fraternity house; proper tasters sip slowly. Fill the dram or shot glass with your scotch of choice. Inhale deeply while slowly swirling the liquid around the glass. Write down your observations. The best “tasters” are so good that they don’t even have to taste. After a few good sniffs, take a small sip. Swirl the spirit around your mouth so it touches every part of your tongue. This is important, because different regions of the tongue detect the different flavors. Alcohol column turns to section rounds of fighting. Judges, in the event of a decision or a technical knockout, use the l0—point must system with points awarded for aggression, power, number of hits, etc. Conners, fighting under his ring name “Short Irish,” came out swinging, constantly attacking his opponent with a flurry of upper- cuts and haymakers. Connors said he appreciated the show support. “It made a huge difference. Having every- one there made it a much better experience.” W&L alumnus John Sensing said, “I wasn’t going to go, but then I was told he was Irish.” Before the fight, Conners was admit- tedly nervous. Though he has had years of experience in a similar arena, Conners was stunned at the number of people who attended the event, which was held in a large, aluminum warehouse much like the Virginia Horse Center. As he found out before the fight, biting, wrestling, headbutting, and kicking are strictly pro- hibited in the Toughman competition, and thus, Conners would simply have to punch his way to a victory. Fighters are broken down into 2 weight classes. Men between 160-184 pounds are grouped as Light Heavyweights, and those between 185-400 are rightfully considered Heavyweights. Women have an open weight class. After drinking half the glass, add a little water to the glass. This reduces the alcohol content, but also allows the whisky to open up its full bouquet of flavors. Straight scotch can often cause the imbiber to swallow quickly before he can get the full benefit of a complete tasting. For this week’s tasting, I selected Glen Garioch’s eight- year—old. Glen Garioch is distilled in the Scottish high- lands by Morrison Bowmore. Scots have been drinking Glen Garioch for over 200 years. Their long tradition of quality does not affect the price; a bottle cost only $18.95 at the ABC store. The bottle features a large moose stand- ing against the majestic backdrop of a Scottish loch. The Glen Garioch has a good nose, with hints of peat and rye. This spirit manages to have an alluring odor with- out numbing the senses. Unfortunately, this spirit disappoints a bit after sipping. There is a notable lack of complexity, despite pleasant but- terscotch and toffee hints. The Glen Garioch is worth the price, however. and would serve well as an apertif or a re- placement for beer. Imbibers new to single-malts might do well to start with this one; no sense hurrying a virgin palate. Any questions or suggestions? E-mail me at agnellom@wlu.edu. Cheers. Conners weighed in at 18] pounds, put- ting him against a similarly built 35-year- old Lewisburg native who seemed to have some experience in the ring as well. After maintaining a quick, aggressive strategy of jabbing and moving, Conners was able to take the other boxer the full 3 rounds. Though his opponent landed some glanc- ing punches, Conners connected on sev- eral punishing blows to the man’s face and head, resulting in a unanimous decision by the judges in Conners’ favor. After the chair—pounding, fist—pumping fight, which was the 17th bout in a 25—bout ticket, Conners and his fanatics posed for a photo before starting their 90-minute drive back to campus. Much to his delight, Conners did not sustain any injuries exclud- ing some minor dehydration and fatigue. Connors’ feelings before the bell rang were normal, yet refreshingly comical. “I was nervous. Ijust didn’t want to break anything.” Now, Matt Conners will return to his daily routine as a history major and a la- crosse player, trying to experience as much as he can before graduation. “Fighting in the Toughman was some- thing I did for the experience and, of course, the fun of it.” read the Phi. read the Phi. _read te Phi. OCR::/Vol_104/WLURG39_RTP_20011105/WLURG39_RTP_20011105_007.2.txt JEIEMYFRANRIIN SPOKISEDHOR EMAH; FRANl