Newsroom Archive for 06/11, 2010

College Leaders Program Class of 2010
Day 13—Thursday, June 10
Reported by: Danielle Simms, Randolph-Macon Woman's College

Our day started at 10 a.m. in the classroom. This was the last day Professor Kidd would teach his lens of the class, “the Informed Citizen”. At first, we discussed our thoughts about visiting the Green Rock Correctional Facility yesterday. Next, we discussed McDonnell’s governmental reform. We compared and contrasted the Wilkinson theory of having broad-based tax increases, closing corporate tax loopholes, and reforming tax codes to the McSweeney theory of public-private partnerships. Democrats are divided in that Nadar-like Democrats believe that the government should tax at a rate to provide services for its people and Clinton-like Democrats want the government to be more business-friendly. Republicans believe that if one can’t kill government because people demand services, then one should engage the private sector in providing services. Next, we discussed Virginia’s state budget and issues and concerns about funding state and local government.

We had Chick-fil-A for lunch, a favorite for meatatarians. During lunch, the CLP class was informed about our events for the weekend including meeting the Political Leaders Program class, policy project interviews, and a trip to Mint Springs Valley Park. At 1 p.m., Charlottesville’s mayor Dave Norris came and spoke to us about the city’s initiatives and setbacks. He explained the impact of Dillon’s rule, unique ways of campaigning, and the socioeconomic climate of Charlottesville. As for running for public office, Norris advised us, “[to] not discount what you can do at the local level,” and to “be mindful of the inbox effect–stay focused on what you set out to do.”

For the rest of the day, we discussed the problems of transportation in Virginia. Post WWII, Truman and Eisenhower wanted the U.S. to be able to deliver commerce affordably and be able to move troops around the country due to the Cold War. Therefore, the country installed two highway systems: the Eisenhower Interstate System and the U.S. highway system. From the 1950s-1970s, the federal government allocated money for highway infrastructure. This time period is also when three-digit spur interstate highways were developed that bypass large metropolitan areas (e.g. I-495, the mixing bowl of DC). Since the 80’s (or earlier for some states), there has not been any major funding for the highway systems. In Virginia it costs a million dollars per mile to build a highway, 12 thousand out of 64 thousand bridges are structurally inadequate, and there isn't enough money for highway maintenance needs. Virginia is unique in that it is the only state without a higher education system and has very strict annexation and consolidation laws. For a while, we discussed why Virginia insists on having cities exist separate from counties—mind-boggling to those of us from out-of-state.

As we were debating the effects of redistricting, in walked Bob Gibson carrying a large box filled of books. The class filled with laughter as he interrupted our intense debate. Then, former DNC chair Terry McAuliffe and former DPVA Executive Director Levar Stoney walked in behind Mr. Gibson. By this point, the class was hysterical. McAuliffe then passed out the books in Gibson’s box, which turned out to be McAuliffe’s autobiography, What a Party! McAuliffe discussed his recent primary campaign for Governor, his business life, his vision for Virginia and life with the Clintons (such as when his son accidentally drove a golf cart into Hilary Clinton). He even signed his books for us. About Sarah Palin, he said, “I’ve been to Anchorage and you cannot see Russia from [Palin’s] house. Thank God for Galileo.” As for life advice, McAuliffe told the CLP class to, “take as many risks and opportunities as you can while you are young.” We took a group photo with McAuliffe and a group photo with Professor Kidd. We also presented Professor Kidd with a special present for teaching our class. Then we ate dinner and met with our policy groups to revise our policy proposals.

Sorensen CLP Daily Lesson: “Greatness is determined by service,” and “Carpe Diem.”