By: Dan Keylin, WRGW News
At noon today, April 30, 2009, President Julie Bindleglass, Executive Vice President Jason Lifton, and a new Senate were sworn in as members of the 2009-2010 Student Association. The SA and the students who they represent are looking towards the future. However, with many of the same players still involved as last year, some are questioning if the new administration will able to get past the issues that plagued the last administration. 5 questions hang over the SA:
5. What scandals will plague the SA next year? 2008-2009 featured a plethora of public relations miscues ranging from a mysterious payment source for several Nationals baseball tickets to the questionable success of the Unity Ball and the drama that plagued the Inaugural Float. At this point, the student body is expecting to see more scandals; it’s simply a matter of when the first one will occur.
4. What will happen to the “Abolish The SA” movement? The movement received a lot of press attention in the beginning of April but has seemingly lost traction. Will organizers actually go forward with collecting the 2500+ signatures necessary to force a referendum, or will all momentum be lost come the fall semester? Will those responsible for the initiative reveal themselves and explain their motives?
3. Will President Julie Bindelglass be successful? With the controversial disqualification of Kyle Boyer, a razor thin runoff victory, and a movement designed to disband the SA, can Julie unite the campus and accomplish her campaign goals? Julie has assembled a rather diverse cabinet with ties to many aspects of student life, but then again, so did her predecessor former President Vishal Aswani. The early indicator of potential success or failure will be keeping a watchful eye on the cohesion of her cabinet, something that many claim was lacking in the Aswani administration.
2. What role will newly-elected grad school senators play? Graduate Senator Jamie Baker (CPS-G) is the chair of the Rules Committee, a powerful entity that determines organizational protocol and can significantly impact the flow of legislation.
1. Will the SA (be forced to) reform itself? In their final meeting of the year, a vote to put a referendum for a new SA Constitution before the student body was tabled by the SA, which effectively killed the latest efforts for reform. Will President Bindelglass and Executive Vice President Jason Lifton try to change the SA Constitution and how will transparency of the organization be affected in the process? To what extent will outside pressure influence them, especially considering former Executive Vice President Kyle Boyer who reportedly plans to unveil an advocacy-oriented organization called the ‘Colonial Impact Group’ to promote spirit and community among the student body?
The bottom-line for the future of the 2009-2010 Student Association: reserved optimism.
This is the Old WRGW District Radio News website. As of January 13th, 2014 all of the latest GW and local DC news can be found on our brand new website at: www.wrgwnews.com!
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Alcohol intoxication behind Treanor's death
According to The Hatchet, the independent student newspaper at GW, alcohol poisoning is the cause of death for 19 year old Laura Treanor, a Sophomore who passed away January 23.
The newspaper cites Beverly Fields, a spokeswoman for the D.C. Medical Examiner as its source.
WRGW will keep you posted as further details become available.
For more on Laura's life listen to a News in Depth tribute to her life, which aired shortly after her tragic death: Laura Treanor Tribute
The newspaper cites Beverly Fields, a spokeswoman for the D.C. Medical Examiner as its source.
WRGW will keep you posted as further details become available.
For more on Laura's life listen to a News in Depth tribute to her life, which aired shortly after her tragic death: Laura Treanor Tribute
Sunday, April 26, 2009
GW Cancer Gala brings doctors, researchers, survivors together
[caption id="attachment_2065" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="From left to right: Dr. Rachel Brem, Dr. Robert Siegel, Jeanette Michael, President Steven Knapp, Mrs. Diane Knapp, Dr. Steven Paterno, and CNN's Wolf Blitzer. Photo Provided by Medical Center Marketing and Communications"]
[/caption]
By Jesse Regis
An event to raise funds for cancer research brings hundreds of people together at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Saturday night in what became a celebration of survivors and those working towards making the disease more manageable. Senator Ted Kennedy, GW professor and cancer researcher Dr. Rachel Brem, and survivor Jeanette Michael were honored at the event for their dedication to the cause.
The proceeds from the event primarily benefitted the GW Cancer Institute and the Dr. Cyrus and Myrtle Katzen Cancer Research Center. 550 Tickets were sold at $500 dollars each, though the total amount of money raised has not yet been announced by the GW Medical Center.
Researchers, many from within GW's own medical community, were anxious to raise awareness and educate the public about the many types of cancer, treatment options, prevention and control, survivorship, health policy, community outreach and education programs that provide those diagnosed access to a network of care that was previously unavailable. CNN's Wolf Blitzer emceed the black tie event.
While the event was designed to raise money and honor dedicated individuals, researchers were anxious to discuss advancements in the field.
According to Dr. Steven Patierno, the Executive Director of the GW Cancer Institute, cancer affects one out of every ten people on the planet. He said that the community has made, "huge headways in the last 10 years beginning to unravel what's actually wrong inside of a cancer cell and we're hopeful that over the next ten to fifteen years we'll be able to design more and more specific drugs to stop the progression of cancer."
Dr. Patricia Berg, a GW professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology is among those who have contributed towards breakthroughs in cancer cell research. Berg and her colleagues discovered and cloned a gene that is active in 80% of breast cancers, 63% of myeloid leukemia, and 70% of prostate cancers. Dr. Berg believes the gene is "very important" in the beginnings of cancer and is now working towards a method that would suppress the gene, in addition to developing a blood test for early detection. "It is coming to the point of personalized medicine where a person with cancer could have some DNA taken and examined to tell which genes are involved with their particular cancer and then have individual treatment," Dr. Berg said.
[caption id="attachment_2070" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Dr. Cyrus and Myrtle Katzen join President and Mrs. Knapp. The Katzen's previous donated of $10 million allowed for the expansion of patient care at the Cancer Research Center in the Medical Faculty Associates building. Photo provided by Medical Center Marketing and Communications"]
[/caption]
Meanwhile, Dr. Robert Siegel, Professor of Medicine and Chief of the Division of Hematology and Oncology, and Director of the Katzen Center, who treats patients with different types of diseases including leukemia, breast, and lung cancers is optimistic based on the progress made in understanding the workings of cancer cells in relation to healthy cells and the ability to "exploit the differences whether it's different markets on the surface of cancer cells, or different weakness in the metabolism of cancer cells," and designing drugs to target cancer cells, while retaining healthy cells. Dr. Siegel tells cancer patients, "We are here to help you. Strives toward curing cancer are significant but not as fast as any of us would like to see them, but meanwhile many cancers are curable now and that’s what we have to do, making the best use of the tools that we have while keeping the pressure on the research to make cures possible for cancers that aren’t curable now."
Doctors and researchers were quick to dispel the myth that the community will be able to cure cancer any time soon. Dr. Kimberly Russo, the Chief Operating Officer of GW Hospital said she "absolutely agrees" with the assessment that it is impossible to know when cancer will be cured. Dr. Russo said, "We can’t put a number on that. Cancer touches all of our hearts, and all of us have been affected in some way shape or form with cancer in our lives and there’s not a number on it because there’s so many different types of cancer."
Instead, funding is being directed towards community, survivorship and long-term health programs that make cancer easier to live with.
Mobile screening vans are among the community programs in the D.C. area. Three vans, dubbed "Mammovans" visit Southeast D.C. once a week to screen women, regardless of their ability to pay. Karen Marino, the executive coordinator of the program says that that Southeast portion of the city is one of the "most medically underserved areas in the District of Columbia with D.C. having one of the highest rates of cancer in the nation. Marino focuses her work in wards 5, 6, 7, and 8, where because of financial or time restraints individuals are normally unable to seek care. Areas within these wards include Anacostia and Navy Yard. She also runs programs that screen for prostate cancer, which according to the American Cancer Society is among the leading causes of death for men.
GW Student Allie Rubin urged college students to get involved with Camp Kesem, a week-long summer camp run by college students. Rubin, the co-chair, said it allows parents to rest and gives children the opportunity to have fun and meet others in the same situation.
[caption id="attachment_2069" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Dr. Rachel Brem receives her award from Dr. Robert Siegel. Photo provided by Medical Center Marketing and Communications"]
[/caption]
Pfizer, the world's largest research-based pharmaceutical company, was on hand to announce a three year grant totaling $1.2 million dollars for The Center for the Advancement of Cancer Survivorship, Navigation, and Policy.
Mandi Chapman, Director for the Office of Cancer Survivorship and Co-director for Center for the Advancement of Cancer Survivorship and Patient Navigation and Health Policy said that the grant will help launch a comprehensive analysis of national healthcare reform, while also promoting training and support programs for cancer patients because as Chapman said, "Cancer care doesn’t end when you’re finished with treatment it really lasts for the rest of your life," and these programs are ways of, "ensuring that patients are able to get he care that they need."
GW President and event co-chair Stephen Knapp was pleased with the turnout and the passion of the GW faculty. Relaying a sense of gratitude, Knapp said GW is focusing on cancer research in particular because, "Everybody's family is touched by cancer and we happen to live in a city that is among the highest cancer rates in the world with a great disparity between different parts of the city and how they’re affected. It's one of the things were trying to address as part of our commitment to the greater Washington community."
Dr. Patierno agrees. He said, "Public awareness is absolutely huge and the more people that understand the importance of cancer research to move us forward, the better.
Dr. Rakesh Kumar, the new chair of Biochemistry and Microbiology at GW Medical School said that while GW is not yet at the forefront of cancer research, the medical center was a motivating force behind his decision to transfer from the Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas. Dealing primarily with breast cancer research, Kumar was at the event to raise awareness because, "Education is responsible for making people go for prescreenings and lots of cancers can be caught and treated if detected early on."
One of the expected highlights of the night never occurred, with Senator Ted Kennedy unable to attend because of his deteriorating health. He received the Cancer Compassion Award for his "dedication to improving access and quality of care among medically underserved communities," according to event literature. However, two other prominent individuals were honored.
Dr. Rachel Brem, the Director of Breast Imaging and Intervention, GW professor of Radiology, and Vice-Chair for research and faculty development in the Department of Radiology at GW Medical Center received the Commitment to Overcoming Cancer Award, presented to Brem based on her commitment to patient care, outreach education , and policy work. Dr. Brem is optimistic about the future of cancer research saying, "There’s enormous hope. That the difference between the cancer that we knew and the cancer that’s here today is that it can often be a chronic disease, that’s it’s not a death sentence, that there’s an enormous amount of hope given the research and all the work that’s been done."
[caption id="attachment_2068" align="alignright" width="350" caption="Jeanette Michael speaks to the gala. She personally thanked members of the GW community for their support in her battle against cancer. Photo provided by Medical Center Marketing and Communications"]
[/caption]
GW Alum, Trustee, and cancer survivor, Jeanette Michael received the Spirit of Life Award, given to an individual whose own survival story inspires others to fight cancer. Her condition made it difficult for her to express her thoughts. Michael was diagnosed with stage two breast cancer in 2002. Eight months ago her cancer spread to her bones, liver, lungs, lymphatic system, and she had cancer tumors around her chest. Her ongoing treatment meant she had no hair, and she struggled to speak. Her voice coarse and low she said, "Everyone knows that you don’t have to have cancer to travel a difficult journey in life, so I want everyone tonight to take a minute to realize just how blessed you are because when I wake up in the morning I thank God that I am still here today."
After all the pain that cancer brought her she stood before the crowd and said, "I’m standing here today to tell you, I’m blessed."
For more information:
GW Cancer Institute: http://www.gwumc.edu/gwci/
Mobile Mammography Programs: http://www.gwdocs.com/MobileMammographyProgram.html
Phone (202) 741-3252
Camp Kesem: http://www.campkesem.org/
[/caption]By Jesse Regis
An event to raise funds for cancer research brings hundreds of people together at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Saturday night in what became a celebration of survivors and those working towards making the disease more manageable. Senator Ted Kennedy, GW professor and cancer researcher Dr. Rachel Brem, and survivor Jeanette Michael were honored at the event for their dedication to the cause.
The proceeds from the event primarily benefitted the GW Cancer Institute and the Dr. Cyrus and Myrtle Katzen Cancer Research Center. 550 Tickets were sold at $500 dollars each, though the total amount of money raised has not yet been announced by the GW Medical Center.
Researchers, many from within GW's own medical community, were anxious to raise awareness and educate the public about the many types of cancer, treatment options, prevention and control, survivorship, health policy, community outreach and education programs that provide those diagnosed access to a network of care that was previously unavailable. CNN's Wolf Blitzer emceed the black tie event.
While the event was designed to raise money and honor dedicated individuals, researchers were anxious to discuss advancements in the field.
According to Dr. Steven Patierno, the Executive Director of the GW Cancer Institute, cancer affects one out of every ten people on the planet. He said that the community has made, "huge headways in the last 10 years beginning to unravel what's actually wrong inside of a cancer cell and we're hopeful that over the next ten to fifteen years we'll be able to design more and more specific drugs to stop the progression of cancer."
Dr. Patricia Berg, a GW professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology is among those who have contributed towards breakthroughs in cancer cell research. Berg and her colleagues discovered and cloned a gene that is active in 80% of breast cancers, 63% of myeloid leukemia, and 70% of prostate cancers. Dr. Berg believes the gene is "very important" in the beginnings of cancer and is now working towards a method that would suppress the gene, in addition to developing a blood test for early detection. "It is coming to the point of personalized medicine where a person with cancer could have some DNA taken and examined to tell which genes are involved with their particular cancer and then have individual treatment," Dr. Berg said.
[caption id="attachment_2070" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Dr. Cyrus and Myrtle Katzen join President and Mrs. Knapp. The Katzen's previous donated of $10 million allowed for the expansion of patient care at the Cancer Research Center in the Medical Faculty Associates building. Photo provided by Medical Center Marketing and Communications"]
[/caption]Meanwhile, Dr. Robert Siegel, Professor of Medicine and Chief of the Division of Hematology and Oncology, and Director of the Katzen Center, who treats patients with different types of diseases including leukemia, breast, and lung cancers is optimistic based on the progress made in understanding the workings of cancer cells in relation to healthy cells and the ability to "exploit the differences whether it's different markets on the surface of cancer cells, or different weakness in the metabolism of cancer cells," and designing drugs to target cancer cells, while retaining healthy cells. Dr. Siegel tells cancer patients, "We are here to help you. Strives toward curing cancer are significant but not as fast as any of us would like to see them, but meanwhile many cancers are curable now and that’s what we have to do, making the best use of the tools that we have while keeping the pressure on the research to make cures possible for cancers that aren’t curable now."
Doctors and researchers were quick to dispel the myth that the community will be able to cure cancer any time soon. Dr. Kimberly Russo, the Chief Operating Officer of GW Hospital said she "absolutely agrees" with the assessment that it is impossible to know when cancer will be cured. Dr. Russo said, "We can’t put a number on that. Cancer touches all of our hearts, and all of us have been affected in some way shape or form with cancer in our lives and there’s not a number on it because there’s so many different types of cancer."
Instead, funding is being directed towards community, survivorship and long-term health programs that make cancer easier to live with.
Mobile screening vans are among the community programs in the D.C. area. Three vans, dubbed "Mammovans" visit Southeast D.C. once a week to screen women, regardless of their ability to pay. Karen Marino, the executive coordinator of the program says that that Southeast portion of the city is one of the "most medically underserved areas in the District of Columbia with D.C. having one of the highest rates of cancer in the nation. Marino focuses her work in wards 5, 6, 7, and 8, where because of financial or time restraints individuals are normally unable to seek care. Areas within these wards include Anacostia and Navy Yard. She also runs programs that screen for prostate cancer, which according to the American Cancer Society is among the leading causes of death for men.
GW Student Allie Rubin urged college students to get involved with Camp Kesem, a week-long summer camp run by college students. Rubin, the co-chair, said it allows parents to rest and gives children the opportunity to have fun and meet others in the same situation.
[caption id="attachment_2069" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Dr. Rachel Brem receives her award from Dr. Robert Siegel. Photo provided by Medical Center Marketing and Communications"]
[/caption]Pfizer, the world's largest research-based pharmaceutical company, was on hand to announce a three year grant totaling $1.2 million dollars for The Center for the Advancement of Cancer Survivorship, Navigation, and Policy.
Mandi Chapman, Director for the Office of Cancer Survivorship and Co-director for Center for the Advancement of Cancer Survivorship and Patient Navigation and Health Policy said that the grant will help launch a comprehensive analysis of national healthcare reform, while also promoting training and support programs for cancer patients because as Chapman said, "Cancer care doesn’t end when you’re finished with treatment it really lasts for the rest of your life," and these programs are ways of, "ensuring that patients are able to get he care that they need."
GW President and event co-chair Stephen Knapp was pleased with the turnout and the passion of the GW faculty. Relaying a sense of gratitude, Knapp said GW is focusing on cancer research in particular because, "Everybody's family is touched by cancer and we happen to live in a city that is among the highest cancer rates in the world with a great disparity between different parts of the city and how they’re affected. It's one of the things were trying to address as part of our commitment to the greater Washington community."
Dr. Patierno agrees. He said, "Public awareness is absolutely huge and the more people that understand the importance of cancer research to move us forward, the better.
"There's enormous hope....it's not a death sentence"
- Honoree Dr. Rachel Brem
Dr. Rakesh Kumar, the new chair of Biochemistry and Microbiology at GW Medical School said that while GW is not yet at the forefront of cancer research, the medical center was a motivating force behind his decision to transfer from the Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas. Dealing primarily with breast cancer research, Kumar was at the event to raise awareness because, "Education is responsible for making people go for prescreenings and lots of cancers can be caught and treated if detected early on."
One of the expected highlights of the night never occurred, with Senator Ted Kennedy unable to attend because of his deteriorating health. He received the Cancer Compassion Award for his "dedication to improving access and quality of care among medically underserved communities," according to event literature. However, two other prominent individuals were honored.
Dr. Rachel Brem, the Director of Breast Imaging and Intervention, GW professor of Radiology, and Vice-Chair for research and faculty development in the Department of Radiology at GW Medical Center received the Commitment to Overcoming Cancer Award, presented to Brem based on her commitment to patient care, outreach education , and policy work. Dr. Brem is optimistic about the future of cancer research saying, "There’s enormous hope. That the difference between the cancer that we knew and the cancer that’s here today is that it can often be a chronic disease, that’s it’s not a death sentence, that there’s an enormous amount of hope given the research and all the work that’s been done."
[caption id="attachment_2068" align="alignright" width="350" caption="Jeanette Michael speaks to the gala. She personally thanked members of the GW community for their support in her battle against cancer. Photo provided by Medical Center Marketing and Communications"]
[/caption]GW Alum, Trustee, and cancer survivor, Jeanette Michael received the Spirit of Life Award, given to an individual whose own survival story inspires others to fight cancer. Her condition made it difficult for her to express her thoughts. Michael was diagnosed with stage two breast cancer in 2002. Eight months ago her cancer spread to her bones, liver, lungs, lymphatic system, and she had cancer tumors around her chest. Her ongoing treatment meant she had no hair, and she struggled to speak. Her voice coarse and low she said, "Everyone knows that you don’t have to have cancer to travel a difficult journey in life, so I want everyone tonight to take a minute to realize just how blessed you are because when I wake up in the morning I thank God that I am still here today."
After all the pain that cancer brought her she stood before the crowd and said, "I’m standing here today to tell you, I’m blessed."
For more information:
GW Cancer Institute: http://www.gwumc.edu/gwci/
Mobile Mammography Programs: http://www.gwdocs.com/MobileMammographyProgram.html
Phone (202) 741-3252
Camp Kesem: http://www.campkesem.org/
Friday, April 24, 2009
Sports Roundup
DC Sports
After opening the season with 7 consecutive losses, the Washington Nationals have finally begun to win a few games. Starting last Friday, the Nationals lost all three games in their weekend home series against the Marlins. On Monday, the Nats earned their second victory of the season beating Atlanta 3-2. They beat the Braves again on Tuesday, this time by a final score of 4 to 3. The win streak was ended with a 0 to 1 loss, again against Atlanta. With just 3 wins and 11 losses, the Nationals officially have the worst record in the MLB. They travel to New York tonight to face the Mets.
In soccer, DC United tied New England last Friday, 1 to 1. United went on to beat Dallas on Wednesday, the final score was 2 to 0. Their next game is Sunday at New York.
Finally, in Hockey the Washington Capitals are one game away from being eliminated in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. On Monday the Capitals lost at home against the Rangers, the final score was 0 to 1. The Caps won on Monday in New York 4-1. Success was short lived as New York beat the Capitals 2 to 1 on Wednesday. The Rangers only need 1 more victory to win the series. Caps and Rangers play tonight at the Verizon Center.
- Joe Lewis
After opening the season with 7 consecutive losses, the Washington Nationals have finally begun to win a few games. Starting last Friday, the Nationals lost all three games in their weekend home series against the Marlins. On Monday, the Nats earned their second victory of the season beating Atlanta 3-2. They beat the Braves again on Tuesday, this time by a final score of 4 to 3. The win streak was ended with a 0 to 1 loss, again against Atlanta. With just 3 wins and 11 losses, the Nationals officially have the worst record in the MLB. They travel to New York tonight to face the Mets.
In soccer, DC United tied New England last Friday, 1 to 1. United went on to beat Dallas on Wednesday, the final score was 2 to 0. Their next game is Sunday at New York.
Finally, in Hockey the Washington Capitals are one game away from being eliminated in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. On Monday the Capitals lost at home against the Rangers, the final score was 0 to 1. The Caps won on Monday in New York 4-1. Success was short lived as New York beat the Capitals 2 to 1 on Wednesday. The Rangers only need 1 more victory to win the series. Caps and Rangers play tonight at the Verizon Center.
- Joe Lewis
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Bindleglass: Early support for bill "taken out of context"
Student Association President-Elect Julie Bindleglass is defending herself against critics who question her motives after the current Senator switched her position twice on a bill that would have put a referendum before the student body on whether to adopt a new SA Constitution. Ms. Bindleglass, who ultimately voted to table the legislation, went from abstention, to support, to opposition over the three day period April 18 - 21, 2009 without explanation, which triggered a number of rumors about what was behind her decisions. Now she is claiming that her early support was taken "out of context." She also denies having any ulterior motives.
Dual positions as Senator and President-elect reportedly led to the initial decision to abstain from voting. Then, according to Senators Michael Komo, Michelle Taney, Nick Polk, and Senator-elect Jamie Baker, Bindleglass threw her "unequivocal support" behind the bill.
Within a day Bindleglass announced her opposition to the bill stating," I have some serious hesitations with regard to the approach taken." She elaborated to allege that the meetings regarding the formulation of the bill "took place behind closed doors and in secret sessions," and that "With classes coming to an end and senate business having been apparently closed for the year, this is not the time to put forth a proposal of this magnitude."
Bindleglass tells WRGW that, "I think my original enthusiastic approval was definitely taken out of context." She continues to say that, "When I first had a chance to talk about it they were proposing a vote in September. They said it would not take place until the next year. I thought the [Senate vote] in September would mean that we had to get things done now."
SA President Vishal Asawni remembers things differently claiming that, "she loved this and wanted it ratified for this year."
Speculation also mounted that President-Elect Bindleglass decided to oppose the bill to score an early legislative victory when she begins work with a newly elected Student Association in September. Responding to the merits of those claims Bindleglass said, “Absolutely not. I don’t care whose taking credit, if it’s something good it needs to get done."
Bindleglass reiterated her support to table the legislation, which would make it possible to consider the bill at the next meeting. However, the meeting, a special session called by President Aswani, was the last of the year. Pending legislation does not carry over from year to year meaning the bill was essentially defeated.
Ms. Bindleglass went so far as to say that she would not be proactive in the formulation of a new Constitution next year and would do so only "if there is shown to be a need."
For additional information listen to: "A Constitutional Controversy"
- Jesse Regis
Dual positions as Senator and President-elect reportedly led to the initial decision to abstain from voting. Then, according to Senators Michael Komo, Michelle Taney, Nick Polk, and Senator-elect Jamie Baker, Bindleglass threw her "unequivocal support" behind the bill.
Within a day Bindleglass announced her opposition to the bill stating," I have some serious hesitations with regard to the approach taken." She elaborated to allege that the meetings regarding the formulation of the bill "took place behind closed doors and in secret sessions," and that "With classes coming to an end and senate business having been apparently closed for the year, this is not the time to put forth a proposal of this magnitude."
Bindleglass tells WRGW that, "I think my original enthusiastic approval was definitely taken out of context." She continues to say that, "When I first had a chance to talk about it they were proposing a vote in September. They said it would not take place until the next year. I thought the [Senate vote] in September would mean that we had to get things done now."
SA President Vishal Asawni remembers things differently claiming that, "she loved this and wanted it ratified for this year."
Speculation also mounted that President-Elect Bindleglass decided to oppose the bill to score an early legislative victory when she begins work with a newly elected Student Association in September. Responding to the merits of those claims Bindleglass said, “Absolutely not. I don’t care whose taking credit, if it’s something good it needs to get done."
Bindleglass reiterated her support to table the legislation, which would make it possible to consider the bill at the next meeting. However, the meeting, a special session called by President Aswani, was the last of the year. Pending legislation does not carry over from year to year meaning the bill was essentially defeated.
Ms. Bindleglass went so far as to say that she would not be proactive in the formulation of a new Constitution next year and would do so only "if there is shown to be a need."
For additional information listen to: "A Constitutional Controversy"
- Jesse Regis
College Democrats, Republicans Elect E-Boards
Both the GW College Republicans and College Democrats held their Executive Board elections for next year recently, with the CR’s to be led by Chairman Brandon Hines, and the CD’s being headed by Peter Weiss.Both incoming E-Boards have extensive goals for their organizations for next year.
Weiss says that he plans to “continue the success of our chapter by offering the proven programming of years past and by initiating new programs to enhance the College Democrats. I will place particular emphasis on public education programming with the understanding that the success of our progressive moment depends on our members’ ability to clearly and effectively articulate the values we stand for.” He says that he will accomplish this by “creating a College Democrats lobbying team that will be extensively trained through ‘issue workshops.’”
Weiss also said that the CD’s next year will “campaign extensively for Democratic candidates in New Jersey and Virginia. Members can also look forward to more events simply designed to foster a sense of community around the organization.”
Emma Carpenter, who was just elected as Political Affairs Director after spending a year as a Freshman Representative for the CD’s, said “Hopefully we will get multiple opportunities to lobby on the Hill as well. I also want to launch more caucuses that mirror the College Democrats of America caucuses like a GLBT caucus or a women's caucus. I'm really excited for next year and I can't wait to see what we can do as an organization.”
Incoming CR Vice-Chairman Tayler Lofquist said she plans to help the CR’s “expand our membership, increase our external communications, campaign successfully whenever we are called to do so, and continue to be the leading voice for the conservative movement on campus.”
Other plans for the CR’s next year include, according to Lofquist, “alumni relations and more creative membership outreach, among other things.”
“It is an exciting time to be a Republican on a college campus, and I am looking forward to whatever comes our way next year,” she said.
2009-2010 College Republicans E-Board
Chairman: Brandon Hines
Vice-Chairman: Tayler Lofquist
Treasurer: Jake Wolf
Secretary: Will Frey
Director of Political Affairs: Travis Holler
Director of Membership: Alex Fitzsimmons
Director of Public Relations: Andrew Clark
Director of Publications: Cynthia Meyer
2009-2010 College Democrats E-Board
President: Peter Weiss
Vice President: Jessi Gordon
Communications Director: Matt Ingoglia
Political Affairs Director: Emma Carpenter
Membership Director: Alex Wright
Community Service Director: Nick Confer
Finance Director: Josh Altman
-Alex Laska
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
SA Constitution reform bill fails in Senate
A bill designed to overhaul the Constitution and redefine a number of aspects within the Student Association failed to pass the Senate at a special meeting of the body on Tuesday night in the Marvin Center. In a thirty-minute meeting the Senate decided to table the bill, which effectively killed the legislation. Senate rules prohibit pending legislation from carrying over into the next administration.
A dark cloud hung over the meeting in response to swirling controversy surrounding the formulation of the bill. GW Law School Senators claim the bill was hastily written, poorly conceived and without proper public input. Senator and President-Elect Julie Bindleglass began the process intending to abstain, then supported the bill, and within the last two days decided to oppose the proposal for a new Constitution on the grounds that it can wait until next semester when she is President. The motive behind the shift remains unclear.
Bindleglass did not speak at the meeting.
Adding to the drama is the input of Tim Miler, the Executive Director of the Student Activities Center, who distributed an e-mail to the Senate prior to the meeting. The e-mail was critical of the bill calling it a “grave mistake.” Miller writes, “It appears that this is a last minute, rushed, clandestine and exclusive process to get something through without proper debate and discussion prior to the end of the year.”
President Vishal Aswani often alluded to actions by "the administration" that made running the student organization difficult.
Miller was absent from Tuesday’s meeting.
In an exclusive interview after what was likely the last SA meeting of his Presidency, Mr. Aswani vented his frustration against a body he called “apathetic” and “disgraceful.”
“You have people here who generally are not interested in the Constitution. People here are just extremely immature. Timing and lame duck status is irrelevant. If you don’t want to be in office, get out of here. The student’s don’t need students who check out in March,” Aswani said, “The lack of interest by this year’s Senate, minus the Student Life committee, to do something as fundamental as their job shows exactly why reform is needed.”
While he concedes that the timing around exams is "unfortunate," Mr. Aswani maintains that the Senate was properly notified and that he followed the proper by-laws in calling the meeting.
Had the measure passed the resolution would have gone before the student body in September. Students would have voted on whether or not to implement the new constitution.
Senator Julie Bindleglass takes office April 30. It is unclear if she will pursue changes to the Constitution.
For more background on the bill in question click here: "A Constitutional Controversy"
- Jesse Regis
A dark cloud hung over the meeting in response to swirling controversy surrounding the formulation of the bill. GW Law School Senators claim the bill was hastily written, poorly conceived and without proper public input. Senator and President-Elect Julie Bindleglass began the process intending to abstain, then supported the bill, and within the last two days decided to oppose the proposal for a new Constitution on the grounds that it can wait until next semester when she is President. The motive behind the shift remains unclear.
Bindleglass did not speak at the meeting.
Adding to the drama is the input of Tim Miler, the Executive Director of the Student Activities Center, who distributed an e-mail to the Senate prior to the meeting. The e-mail was critical of the bill calling it a “grave mistake.” Miller writes, “It appears that this is a last minute, rushed, clandestine and exclusive process to get something through without proper debate and discussion prior to the end of the year.”
President Vishal Aswani often alluded to actions by "the administration" that made running the student organization difficult.
Miller was absent from Tuesday’s meeting.
In an exclusive interview after what was likely the last SA meeting of his Presidency, Mr. Aswani vented his frustration against a body he called “apathetic” and “disgraceful.”
“You have people here who generally are not interested in the Constitution. People here are just extremely immature. Timing and lame duck status is irrelevant. If you don’t want to be in office, get out of here. The student’s don’t need students who check out in March,” Aswani said, “The lack of interest by this year’s Senate, minus the Student Life committee, to do something as fundamental as their job shows exactly why reform is needed.”
While he concedes that the timing around exams is "unfortunate," Mr. Aswani maintains that the Senate was properly notified and that he followed the proper by-laws in calling the meeting.
Had the measure passed the resolution would have gone before the student body in September. Students would have voted on whether or not to implement the new constitution.
Senator Julie Bindleglass takes office April 30. It is unclear if she will pursue changes to the Constitution.
For more background on the bill in question click here: "A Constitutional Controversy"
- Jesse Regis
Jared's "Bottom Line"/Witty Counterpart to Jesse's Serious Reporting
WRAP-UP: The likelihood that Carly Schildhaus is drinking "Seagram's Ginger Ale" is as slim as the prospect that Chris Dodd will win re-election.
WRAP-UP: I'm off to the gym to sweat out these SA toxins
9:43 p.m. Kim Wollner bitches me out for the "funeral" comment
9:42 p.m. "Have a good summer!" says Kyle, as he sharpens his shank
9:41 p.m. Last meeting of the Senate is adjourned....I need to go change myself now
9:40 p.m. Resolution passes
9:39 p.m. Ali poses motion to amend...passes
9:38 p.m. Tanney basically sums up resolution as a something that will be "passed on" to next Senate w/ a hearty "Good luck to you."
9:37 p.m. Logan voices his opposition to the measure
9:36 p.m. Komo pleads for everyone to carefully examine the legislation
9:35 p.m. Kyle if you are reading this right now, give me a discrete hand signal
9:34 p.m. I think I had a night terror last week that mimicked this scenario
9:32 p.m. Vote to suspend procedure and reinstate the issue on the agenda passes
9:31 p.m. Nick just killed his own legislation...I'm very confused
9:30 p.m. Senate-elect Nick Polk botches procedure like failed neurosurgery
9:28 p.m. Michelle cites "substantial student support"...homeless vagabonds don't count, Michelle
9:27 p.m. If he says "ya'll" one more time, someone's going to get cut (or jumped in the alleyway) or both...
9:26 p.m. Polk is fed up with the "shmear" campaign...deli cream cheese?!? Y'all
9:25 p.m. "Let's vote on this, guys!" says Polk
9:25 p.m. Nick takes full responsibility for constitutional revamp
9:24 p.m. "Voting by proxy" sounds like something the U.S. Senate should never take up
9:32 p.m. I'm hearing either a eulogy or an admissions sales pitch from her.
9:22 p.m. Tanney: "I am disappointed that people would make these baseless accusations" [regarding her character]
9:21 p.m. Tanney says some are here "to inflate their egos" and have "secret agendas"
9:20 p.m. Nick Polk arrives 20 minutes late...I will refrain from speculation
9:19 p.m. Michelle Tanney has taken the reigns
9:18 p.m. Vishal: "You all need to look at yourselves"...great piece of advice
9:17 p.m. Vishal: "Students don't need people who are going to check out"....blissfully ironic
9:16 p.m. Kyle reads the "riot act" to the senators (in terms of speaking succinctly and respectfully)
9:15 p.m. Public participation finished
9:14 p.m. Chistopher Jenkins, a double alum and former parliamentarian, says that a new constitution is "at least 10 years overdue"
9:13 p.m. Rob Lockwood's auburn hair is shimmering in the fluorescent light
9:12 p.m. Dan Curran eats a salad from Chop't...I don't know if it's him or his brother
9:11 p.m. Phil Bianchi's role is apparently sitting in a pink shirt and caressing his Coke Zero
9:10 p.m. Louis Laverone enters like Julius Caesar just before he got mugged on the floor of the Senate
9:09 p.m. The Alpha Phi contingent (Carly) has sauntered in
9:08 p.m. This body operates like a 1920s Prohibition "speak easy"
9:07 p.m. I want the name of Kyle's tailor...classy man
9:06 p.m. Kim Wollner is dressed like she just came from Ronald Reagan's funeral
9:05 p.m. Julie has been in the room less than 15 minutes and has already been sexually harassed repeatedly.
WRAP-UP: I'm off to the gym to sweat out these SA toxins
9:43 p.m. Kim Wollner bitches me out for the "funeral" comment
9:42 p.m. "Have a good summer!" says Kyle, as he sharpens his shank
9:41 p.m. Last meeting of the Senate is adjourned....I need to go change myself now
9:40 p.m. Resolution passes
9:39 p.m. Ali poses motion to amend...passes
9:38 p.m. Tanney basically sums up resolution as a something that will be "passed on" to next Senate w/ a hearty "Good luck to you."
9:37 p.m. Logan voices his opposition to the measure
9:36 p.m. Komo pleads for everyone to carefully examine the legislation
9:35 p.m. Kyle if you are reading this right now, give me a discrete hand signal
9:34 p.m. I think I had a night terror last week that mimicked this scenario
9:32 p.m. Vote to suspend procedure and reinstate the issue on the agenda passes
9:31 p.m. Nick just killed his own legislation...I'm very confused
9:30 p.m. Senate-elect Nick Polk botches procedure like failed neurosurgery
9:28 p.m. Michelle cites "substantial student support"...homeless vagabonds don't count, Michelle
9:27 p.m. If he says "ya'll" one more time, someone's going to get cut (or jumped in the alleyway) or both...
9:26 p.m. Polk is fed up with the "shmear" campaign...deli cream cheese?!? Y'all
9:25 p.m. "Let's vote on this, guys!" says Polk
9:25 p.m. Nick takes full responsibility for constitutional revamp
9:24 p.m. "Voting by proxy" sounds like something the U.S. Senate should never take up
9:32 p.m. I'm hearing either a eulogy or an admissions sales pitch from her.
9:22 p.m. Tanney: "I am disappointed that people would make these baseless accusations" [regarding her character]
9:21 p.m. Tanney says some are here "to inflate their egos" and have "secret agendas"
9:20 p.m. Nick Polk arrives 20 minutes late...I will refrain from speculation
9:19 p.m. Michelle Tanney has taken the reigns
9:18 p.m. Vishal: "You all need to look at yourselves"...great piece of advice
9:17 p.m. Vishal: "Students don't need people who are going to check out"....blissfully ironic
9:16 p.m. Kyle reads the "riot act" to the senators (in terms of speaking succinctly and respectfully)
9:15 p.m. Public participation finished
9:14 p.m. Chistopher Jenkins, a double alum and former parliamentarian, says that a new constitution is "at least 10 years overdue"
9:13 p.m. Rob Lockwood's auburn hair is shimmering in the fluorescent light
9:12 p.m. Dan Curran eats a salad from Chop't...I don't know if it's him or his brother
9:11 p.m. Phil Bianchi's role is apparently sitting in a pink shirt and caressing his Coke Zero
9:10 p.m. Louis Laverone enters like Julius Caesar just before he got mugged on the floor of the Senate
9:09 p.m. The Alpha Phi contingent (Carly) has sauntered in
9:08 p.m. This body operates like a 1920s Prohibition "speak easy"
9:07 p.m. I want the name of Kyle's tailor...classy man
9:06 p.m. Kim Wollner is dressed like she just came from Ronald Reagan's funeral
9:05 p.m. Julie has been in the room less than 15 minutes and has already been sexually harassed repeatedly.
SA Live Blogging
9:40: Meeting adjourned. Kyle: "Have a good summer." Senate in shock the meeting is over but lacking any sort of social life or friend base no one has anything to do for the rest of the night. Chris Pappas steals my back pack...and heart. What a beautiful man.
9:39: No secondary public comment. 20,000 students at this university and no one has anything to say.
9:36: Ali supports measure but with amendment. Tanne makes motion to previous motion. Motion carries.
9:30: Tanney offers motions to suspend rules and add new bill to the agenda. Motion carries with 16 votes. Boyer clearly agitated that meeting is continuing. Dobson tries to make friendly conversation. Tanney says the non-binding resolution is being introduced because it would encourage the Bindleglass administration to move towards reform in the future. Komo is co-sponsor. Tanney offers co-sponsorship to anyone willing to join. Jason Lifton arrives. Dobson says he is opposed to legislation because the bodies are different between this year and next year.
9:29: Dobson makes motion to move to previous question. Curran seconds the motion. The motion does not carry. Polk motions to table it. Pappas is frusterated. Boyer says that any legislation tabled at last meeting is killed because you cannot table legislation for next administration. The motion to table is a motion to kill the legislation. Pappas is very tense.
9:28: Debate set at 10 minutes.
9:27 Michael Komo speaks about the amount of time and effort being put into Constitution to "make GW a better place."
9:19: Nick Polk says it was his idea to overhaul the Constitution and that he started the process back in October 2008. Doesn't mention that efforts to do this have been happening for 4 1/2 years. Setting himself up for another Presidential run? "This is the SA guys, we come here to debate things and vote on them." Talk, debate, and vote. If it tables the people next year will deal with it. Says the SA are students, not the House of Representatives.
9:18: Michelle Tanney had a fun event planned but given the serious tone of the meeting, and the matters begin discussed, has canceled it. Says there are people here with an agenda and an ego. Calls people out for making baseless accusations about her character. Disappointed about how things have transpired in the past few days. Says there is need for reform, that she believes in Senate, and is sorry that things turned out the way they did in regard to how people acted in their attacks against her.
9:14: Boyer says he is "not playing around tonight" Says they can debate but that points must be concise. Vishal gets before Senate with a full speech but throws it away and thanks Logan Dobson. He said it is the only person who argued about the substance of the legislation. Timing and lame duck status is irrelevant. "If you don't want to be in office, get out of here. The student's don't need students who check out in March." Followed by scattered clapping.
9:13: Public comment period over
9:13: Initial public comment from Christopher Jenkins, a double alum. Speaking in favor of Constitution. Says it's "10 yeas overdue." Substantive differences, can clean things up and get rid of ambiguity.
9:12: My latte is running low. Assigning a proxy to get me more.
9:11: Prospective student sitting along the wall. Doubtful he will come to GW after seeing this.
9:09: Minutes approved, Pappas complains about not having a placard. Implies he is better than everyone else.
9:08: Chris Pappas calls his mother
9:07: Rob Maxim calling the roll. Most Senators respond with "Here by Proxy," which sounds more like a lame 80s sitcom then a serious procedural motion.
9:06: Roll Call. Meeting now underway. Proxies for Senators not present.
9:05: Still awaiting meeting to start.
9:01: EVP Boyer plays the latest piece from WRGW's news blog over the speakers in the room. Hatchet bloggers jealous, be hatin'
8:57: Award for "Most Spirited Entry into Empty Room" goes to Logan Dobson who said something that rhymes with "Cups up witches
9:39: No secondary public comment. 20,000 students at this university and no one has anything to say.
9:36: Ali supports measure but with amendment. Tanne makes motion to previous motion. Motion carries.
9:30: Tanney offers motions to suspend rules and add new bill to the agenda. Motion carries with 16 votes. Boyer clearly agitated that meeting is continuing. Dobson tries to make friendly conversation. Tanney says the non-binding resolution is being introduced because it would encourage the Bindleglass administration to move towards reform in the future. Komo is co-sponsor. Tanney offers co-sponsorship to anyone willing to join. Jason Lifton arrives. Dobson says he is opposed to legislation because the bodies are different between this year and next year.
9:29: Dobson makes motion to move to previous question. Curran seconds the motion. The motion does not carry. Polk motions to table it. Pappas is frusterated. Boyer says that any legislation tabled at last meeting is killed because you cannot table legislation for next administration. The motion to table is a motion to kill the legislation. Pappas is very tense.
9:28: Debate set at 10 minutes.
9:27 Michael Komo speaks about the amount of time and effort being put into Constitution to "make GW a better place."
9:19: Nick Polk says it was his idea to overhaul the Constitution and that he started the process back in October 2008. Doesn't mention that efforts to do this have been happening for 4 1/2 years. Setting himself up for another Presidential run? "This is the SA guys, we come here to debate things and vote on them." Talk, debate, and vote. If it tables the people next year will deal with it. Says the SA are students, not the House of Representatives.
9:18: Michelle Tanney had a fun event planned but given the serious tone of the meeting, and the matters begin discussed, has canceled it. Says there are people here with an agenda and an ego. Calls people out for making baseless accusations about her character. Disappointed about how things have transpired in the past few days. Says there is need for reform, that she believes in Senate, and is sorry that things turned out the way they did in regard to how people acted in their attacks against her.
9:14: Boyer says he is "not playing around tonight" Says they can debate but that points must be concise. Vishal gets before Senate with a full speech but throws it away and thanks Logan Dobson. He said it is the only person who argued about the substance of the legislation. Timing and lame duck status is irrelevant. "If you don't want to be in office, get out of here. The student's don't need students who check out in March." Followed by scattered clapping.
9:13: Public comment period over
9:13: Initial public comment from Christopher Jenkins, a double alum. Speaking in favor of Constitution. Says it's "10 yeas overdue." Substantive differences, can clean things up and get rid of ambiguity.
9:12: My latte is running low. Assigning a proxy to get me more.
9:11: Prospective student sitting along the wall. Doubtful he will come to GW after seeing this.
9:09: Minutes approved, Pappas complains about not having a placard. Implies he is better than everyone else.
9:08: Chris Pappas calls his mother
9:07: Rob Maxim calling the roll. Most Senators respond with "Here by Proxy," which sounds more like a lame 80s sitcom then a serious procedural motion.
9:06: Roll Call. Meeting now underway. Proxies for Senators not present.
9:05: Still awaiting meeting to start.
9:01: EVP Boyer plays the latest piece from WRGW's news blog over the speakers in the room. Hatchet bloggers jealous, be hatin'
8:57: Award for "Most Spirited Entry into Empty Room" goes to Logan Dobson who said something that rhymes with "Cups up witches
Constitutional proposal prompts SA drama
Controversy in the Student Association as a proposal for a new constitution prompts objections from many including the GW Law School and President-Election Julie Bindleglass, or has switched her position twice.
An exclusive interview with Student Association President Vishal Aswani unveils where the legislation stands on the eve of a vote on whether to put the issue before the student body.
Then, log on tonight at 9pm as WRGW live blogs from the SA meeting.
Click here for the feature: "A Constitutional Controversy"
An exclusive interview with Student Association President Vishal Aswani unveils where the legislation stands on the eve of a vote on whether to put the issue before the student body.
Then, log on tonight at 9pm as WRGW live blogs from the SA meeting.
Click here for the feature: "A Constitutional Controversy"
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Weekend Review: State of Play
"State of Play" has the feel of a classic 70s-style political drama, yet it just misses the mark of its more successful and cogent predecessors. Think - "All the President's Men". But director Kevin McDonald does not deliver a classic of that caliber. Kevin McDonald showed his prowess in guiding the 2006 critically acclaimed film "The Last King of Scotland". The movie was filmed Instead "State of Play" about a crusading newspaperman who seeks to uncover a murder-sex scandal involving an up-and-coming politician is a rather predictable series of plot twists and complex turns.
A significant part of the film's problem is that it is a work of adaptation. It was actually adapted from a six-hour 2003 BBC miniseries by the same name. There is a limited amount of time to chock the film to the brim with fragmented details and not-so-subtle clues in hopes of elevating the audience to a masterful climax. But as an audience member, I connected the pieces long-before what was supposed to be a stunning climax. So I sat around in the dark - waiting for the film to finish, feeling every bit disappointed.
I have to admit, even though the intersection between investigative journalism and political scandal is certainly not a new dynamic, the film is however rather successful in broaching the problem of the changing face and state of print journalism. Slovenly and scruffy Russell Crowe plays Cal McAffrey, a reporter for the Washington Globe (read: Post) who is pursing what appears to be a standard drug deal gone bad. Representing the older generation of classic print journalists he is amongst many who have to stand witness to what seems like the slow and eventual death of their industry, of their life’s' work. Rachel McAdams plays Della Frye, an eager-beaver online blogger who is interested in uncovering the salacious sexual gossip of a Capitol Hill researcher, dead in a train accident, to her boss, Congressman Stephen Collins, played by Ben Affleck. Affleck is of course at the center of the bourgeoning scandal which threatens to derail his promising future in politics. The incomparable Helen Mirren plays the hard-hitting newspaper editor rounds out this all-star cast.
But there is something about the cast dynamics that just feels off. Also, I was completely distracted by the obvious age difference of Affleck's and Crowe's characters - they were supposed to have been roommates in college. Really? Russell Crowe has a solid decade on Affleck and it shows. Not only in comparing more youthful physical attributes but also in comparing acting chops as. Affleck's smooth youthful good looks versus Crowe's ruggedness is just too obvious of juxtaposition. Though Crowe can take the role of a handsome leading man with ease, he is essentially a character actor who manages to make the audience forget that he was Maximus. Affleck looks as if he stepped off of the red carpet and found himself suddenly just playing at the role. His character is vapid (References: 2006: "Gigli". Can't escape it Ben. Or 2009: "He's Just Not That Into You”), lacking the complex seedy, slickness that makes the stuffs of a truly great politician.
"State of Play" is rated PG-13. You can check it out, if you really want to at AMC Loews in Georgetown. The film is set and was filmed right here in Washington, DC. You will undoubtedly see familiar landmarks and play the "ohh-I-saw that-place-in-the-movie" game or the "I-totally-know-where-that-is" game on the way back from Georgetown. Ticket prices are $10.75. Or you could save your cash, invest 50 cents into an extra copy or two of the Washington Post and do your small part to save a dying industry.
-Shawn Willis
A significant part of the film's problem is that it is a work of adaptation. It was actually adapted from a six-hour 2003 BBC miniseries by the same name. There is a limited amount of time to chock the film to the brim with fragmented details and not-so-subtle clues in hopes of elevating the audience to a masterful climax. But as an audience member, I connected the pieces long-before what was supposed to be a stunning climax. So I sat around in the dark - waiting for the film to finish, feeling every bit disappointed.
I have to admit, even though the intersection between investigative journalism and political scandal is certainly not a new dynamic, the film is however rather successful in broaching the problem of the changing face and state of print journalism. Slovenly and scruffy Russell Crowe plays Cal McAffrey, a reporter for the Washington Globe (read: Post) who is pursing what appears to be a standard drug deal gone bad. Representing the older generation of classic print journalists he is amongst many who have to stand witness to what seems like the slow and eventual death of their industry, of their life’s' work. Rachel McAdams plays Della Frye, an eager-beaver online blogger who is interested in uncovering the salacious sexual gossip of a Capitol Hill researcher, dead in a train accident, to her boss, Congressman Stephen Collins, played by Ben Affleck. Affleck is of course at the center of the bourgeoning scandal which threatens to derail his promising future in politics. The incomparable Helen Mirren plays the hard-hitting newspaper editor rounds out this all-star cast.
But there is something about the cast dynamics that just feels off. Also, I was completely distracted by the obvious age difference of Affleck's and Crowe's characters - they were supposed to have been roommates in college. Really? Russell Crowe has a solid decade on Affleck and it shows. Not only in comparing more youthful physical attributes but also in comparing acting chops as. Affleck's smooth youthful good looks versus Crowe's ruggedness is just too obvious of juxtaposition. Though Crowe can take the role of a handsome leading man with ease, he is essentially a character actor who manages to make the audience forget that he was Maximus. Affleck looks as if he stepped off of the red carpet and found himself suddenly just playing at the role. His character is vapid (References: 2006: "Gigli". Can't escape it Ben. Or 2009: "He's Just Not That Into You”), lacking the complex seedy, slickness that makes the stuffs of a truly great politician.
"State of Play" is rated PG-13. You can check it out, if you really want to at AMC Loews in Georgetown. The film is set and was filmed right here in Washington, DC. You will undoubtedly see familiar landmarks and play the "ohh-I-saw that-place-in-the-movie" game or the "I-totally-know-where-that-is" game on the way back from Georgetown. Ticket prices are $10.75. Or you could save your cash, invest 50 cents into an extra copy or two of the Washington Post and do your small part to save a dying industry.
-Shawn Willis
RECAP: News In Depth 4/19/09
Gutting the SA Constitution, sweeping Reform and Marvin Center changes for the coming year...
Those were the topics this past Sunday on News In Depth w/ Jared Pliner & Jesse Regis.
In the first half hour, Sen. Logan Dobson (CCAS-U) joined us in studio to discuss recently released plans by four senators to reform the SA Constitution and essentially eliminate the the Office of Executive Vice President.
Also: In an exciting chain of events, we received a surprise phone call from outgoing SA President Vishal Aswani (who supports the measure) as to why he's signing on to this movement so late in the game. Vishal tells all in one of his final interviews as president!
And finally, Ethan Elser, chair of the Marvin Center Governing Board briefed us on some Marvin Center initiatives to begin next semester.
As we say: "It's Sunday and it's News In Depth!"
Those were the topics this past Sunday on News In Depth w/ Jared Pliner & Jesse Regis.
In the first half hour, Sen. Logan Dobson (CCAS-U) joined us in studio to discuss recently released plans by four senators to reform the SA Constitution and essentially eliminate the the Office of Executive Vice President.
Also: In an exciting chain of events, we received a surprise phone call from outgoing SA President Vishal Aswani (who supports the measure) as to why he's signing on to this movement so late in the game. Vishal tells all in one of his final interviews as president!
And finally, Ethan Elser, chair of the Marvin Center Governing Board briefed us on some Marvin Center initiatives to begin next semester.
As we say: "It's Sunday and it's News In Depth!"
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Planet Forward Premieres on PBS
Planet Forward, a website-turned-television show spearheaded by GW Professor Frank Sesno and research institution Public Agenda, aired last night on PBS.
To coincide with the premiere, GW Sustainability hosted a viewing party at Funger Hall that was attended by several university students and staff members, including students who had been working on the project since the beginning of the school year as part of the Planet Forward “Core.” These students had helped come up with the title for the show, make content for the website and show, and reach out to the public.
Sesno and GW President Steven Knapp were in attendance to give remarks before the viewing. Both stressed the importance of dialogue and GW’s involvement in finding alternative energy sources.
Due to technology glitches, the show wasn’t watched live on PBS, but was viewed via DVD, which included backstage footage shot taken during the taping by GW student and GWTV staff member Andrew Springer.
After the hour-long show – which included a panel discussion with energy experts and an exclusive interview with Obama’s Climate Czar Carol Browner – Sesno took questions from some of the audience members, who suggested ideas for future episodes and expressed support for the concept of the show.
“I am hopeful,” said one audience member after watching the premiere, adding that she looked forward to further televised discussions on the world’s energy future.
Footage of the show will soon be put up on Planet Forward’s website, www.PlanetForward.org, and a ‘webisode’ sequel to the premiere will also appear on the site late next month.
-Alex Laska
Coming soon to a venue near you
As summer begins to kick in, more and more music and entertainment groups will be coming to the area. For students on campus, this is the perfect time to take a break while studying for exams.
At the 9:30 club, concerts are almost daily. Tonight will be a performance by Richard Cheese and Lounge Against The Machine. Tomorrow night will be a performance by Ratatat, with Tussie and Black Pus opening. Friday night will be a performance by Lily Allen, with Natalie Portman's Shaved Head opening. The aforementioned events are all sold out.
The Verizon Center does not have such a continuous lineup. On May 18th, students who are still on campus may have the pleasure to see Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band. This event is sold out, with tickets ranging from $68 to $98.
The Patriot Center will be holding something a little more unusual. Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey will be holding their string of circuses at the Patriot Center for a majority of the month. Tickets for the event range from $14 to $95. After the conclusion of the series, George Mason University will be holding their Mason Day Concert, in which 'a special guest' will be performing. The day after, April 24th, the Kings of Leon will be performing. Tickets cost $45.
For updates and a list of events in the DC area, visit 930.com, verizoncenter.com, patriotcenter.com, and eventful.com
At the 9:30 club, concerts are almost daily. Tonight will be a performance by Richard Cheese and Lounge Against The Machine. Tomorrow night will be a performance by Ratatat, with Tussie and Black Pus opening. Friday night will be a performance by Lily Allen, with Natalie Portman's Shaved Head opening. The aforementioned events are all sold out.
The Verizon Center does not have such a continuous lineup. On May 18th, students who are still on campus may have the pleasure to see Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band. This event is sold out, with tickets ranging from $68 to $98.
The Patriot Center will be holding something a little more unusual. Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey will be holding their string of circuses at the Patriot Center for a majority of the month. Tickets for the event range from $14 to $95. After the conclusion of the series, George Mason University will be holding their Mason Day Concert, in which 'a special guest' will be performing. The day after, April 24th, the Kings of Leon will be performing. Tickets cost $45.
For updates and a list of events in the DC area, visit 930.com, verizoncenter.com, patriotcenter.com, and eventful.com
Cherry Blossom Ends, But Tourism Still in High Season
The National Cherry Blossom Festival is now over, and not a day too late it seems, given the awful weather in the District since Sunday, the official final day of the event. Revenue and official attendance numbers for the festival have not yet been announced.
Last year, both Cherry Blossom weekends saw rainfall, and the festival saw a $100,000 shortfall. This year, the weather was also inconsistent, but festival organizers are still calling the event a success. While the number of expected visitors, 1 million, was not higher than in previous years, it is still notable in light of the downturn in the economy. The economy is being cited as a cause behind the drastic drop in restaurants participating in the festival’s seventh annual Cherry Picks promo, where chefs add cherry-flavored and blossom-inspired creations to their menus. Nonetheless, the festival remains one of the most important tourist attractions for Washington DC each year.
It tends to coincide with other tourism events, such as the recently developed Passport DC, a program that aims to highlight Washington’s unique status as home to more embassies than any other city in the world. Through May 9, 2009, Cultural Tourism DC, the organizers of the program, will coordinate a large-scale, open house event at more than 30 embassies – for more information visit www.culturaltourismdc.org.
Another notable new attraction in DC is a wax figure of Michelle Obama that was unveiled on April 7th at Madame Tussauds wax museum. According to the Museum’s press release, studio artists at Merlin Studios in London, who started working on Mrs. Obama’s figure in late December, studied hundreds of photos and watched hours of video footage to create the figure. The artists chose to dress Mrs. Obama in a red, sleeveless custom-designed dress modeled on the purple dress she wore the night of the Democratic presidential nomination. Mrs. Obama is the third First Lady to be immortalized in wax by Madame Tussauds Washington D.C., joining Jacqueline Kennedy and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.
Last year, both Cherry Blossom weekends saw rainfall, and the festival saw a $100,000 shortfall. This year, the weather was also inconsistent, but festival organizers are still calling the event a success. While the number of expected visitors, 1 million, was not higher than in previous years, it is still notable in light of the downturn in the economy. The economy is being cited as a cause behind the drastic drop in restaurants participating in the festival’s seventh annual Cherry Picks promo, where chefs add cherry-flavored and blossom-inspired creations to their menus. Nonetheless, the festival remains one of the most important tourist attractions for Washington DC each year.
It tends to coincide with other tourism events, such as the recently developed Passport DC, a program that aims to highlight Washington’s unique status as home to more embassies than any other city in the world. Through May 9, 2009, Cultural Tourism DC, the organizers of the program, will coordinate a large-scale, open house event at more than 30 embassies – for more information visit www.culturaltourismdc.org.
Another notable new attraction in DC is a wax figure of Michelle Obama that was unveiled on April 7th at Madame Tussauds wax museum. According to the Museum’s press release, studio artists at Merlin Studios in London, who started working on Mrs. Obama’s figure in late December, studied hundreds of photos and watched hours of video footage to create the figure. The artists chose to dress Mrs. Obama in a red, sleeveless custom-designed dress modeled on the purple dress she wore the night of the Democratic presidential nomination. Mrs. Obama is the third First Lady to be immortalized in wax by Madame Tussauds Washington D.C., joining Jacqueline Kennedy and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.
- Monika Wysocki
Jesus Christ Superstar
Generic Theater Company presented Jesus Christ Superstar last weekend in Lisner Downstage. The show, which was written by Andrew Lloyd Weber and Tim Rice, was directed by Colby Katz-Lapides. Rachel Spitz-Liberman, a sophomore who is involved with dance and theater at GW saw the show and said, "overall I thought it was a good production, although the decision to bring it into the modern age was a little questionable." The final number was particularly affected by this decision.
Generic will be staging one more show this school year - Charlie and the Chocolate Factory based on the book by Ronald Dahl. It is scheduled for April 23rd through 25th at Lisner Downstage. Tickets will be $5.
2009-2010 Class Council Announced
The winners of the 2009 Class Council elections were announced by email yesterday. Leading next year’s Class Council as President of the Executive Board will be junior Ashley Starks, with junior Nick Profeta as Vice President and freshman Kenny Cobbs as Secretary. See below for a full list of the 2009-2010 Class Council.
"I'm so excited to get the chance to represent the student body and make some positive changes for the coming year," said Starks. "This coming year, more than ever, we are focusing on growing our student-alumni relationship with the Alumni Association to bring students more networking opportunities to connect with alumni and grow as professionals."
"All of us on Class Council have high expectations for the coming year and are looking forward to bringing fun events to campus," she said.
Class of 2010 Representative George Brunner says that he is also “ready to work with the newly elected council members of the senior class to bring both new ideas to the table and ensure continuity on things that have been successful.”
Brunner says that he will “utilize my experiences and contacts to be an asset to the council and ensure representation for the class of 2010; we are a small but able group of student leaders that are willing to give back to our campus and community and I am sure I speak for everyone when I say we look forward to a great year ahead.”
According to the Class Council’s website, “the mission of GW Class Council is to promote inter-and-intra-class unity through social, academic, and community programming both university-wide and district-wide.” Some of the events spearheaded by the Class Council are the Battle of the a Capella Groups – which takes place April 24 at Lisner – REPRESENT dance competition, and Freshmen Feast.
2009-2010 Class Council
Executive Board
Ashley Starks, President
Nick Profeta, Vice President
Kenny Cobbs, Secretary
Kai Shaw, Treasurer
Shaylen Foley, Marketing Executive
Class of 2010
Molly Fellenbaum
Andrew Elwell
Amanda Heerwig
Jen Sansone
Mark Johnson
George Brunner
Liz Finnegan
Class of 2011
Jami Mevorah
Emily Adams
Rachel Gabriel
Dan Kinney
Hillary McElroy
Ricardo Muniz
Rachel Sussman
Class of 2012
Colette Kent
Estee Gabel
Natasha Dupee
Allison Peotter
Noel Behailu
Rebecca Dauer
Jonathan Read
-Alex Laska
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
GW's Sixth Annual Cancer Gala to Honor Senate's "Last Lion"
Last week, The George Washington University and The George Washington University Medical Center announced the honorees for the Sixth Annual GW Cancer Gala. The event will be held at the Ritz Carlton at 22nd and M Streets on April 25th, and will award the 2009 Cancer Compassion Award to Sen. Edward M. Kennedy of Massachusetts for his devotion to improving access to and quality of care for many struggling Americans nationwide. The senator was diagnosed with brain cancer last year.The event will also honor two renowned figures in the medical and cancer communities: Dr. Rachel F. Brem of the GW Medical Center for her nationally-recognized work and research in the area of breast cancer treatment and detection, and Attorney Jeanette A. Michael, a Washington lawyer and breast cancer survivor who is a vigorous leader and advocate for breast cancer awareness.
The event will be emceed by Wolf Blitzer, anchor of CNN’s The Situation Room and Grammy Award-winning guitarist Al Petteway and Amy White will provide the evening’s musical entertainment.
- Jared Pliner
Flaming Lips to Headline Green Apple Festival
This Sunday April 19 will mark another Earth Day celebration on the National Mall with free music and entertainment beginning at Noon at the Capitol. The Flaming Lips top a ticket that also includes Los Lobos, DJ Spooky, the Howard University Drummers and the Joy of Motion Dance Center’s teen hip hop company, Urban Impact.
Most known for their 1993 hit, "She Don't Use Jelly" the Oklahoma natives are famous for their alternative-rock, space age sound. It's a shift from last year's top act The Roots, who because of torrential rain and lightning never took the stage. The Weather Channel predicts isolated thunderstorms and a 30% chance of rain this Sunday.
Chevy Chase, most known for his roles in Saturday Night Live, and the National Lampoons series, is expected to emcee the event, which is designed to celebrate three days of environmental volunteerism.
While the D.C. concert is the flagship event large shows are being held in Atlanta, Austin, Boston, Chicago, Denver, Los Angeles, New York, Seattle, and San Francisco, in what event organizers are calling the biggest earth day celebration to date.
Earth Day is April 22nd.
For more information:
To volunteer this weekend visit: http://planetgreen.discovery.com/work-connect/green-apple.html
For more information on the concert line-up visit: http://www.greenapplemusicfestival.com/
- Jesse Regis
Monday, April 13, 2009
Props to Pops
[caption id="attachment_1795" align="alignleft" width="228" caption="Pops Mensah-Bonsu with SA Senator Steve Glatter (left), who sponsored the Props to Pops legislation, and outgoing SA President Vishal Aswani (right)."]
[/caption]Pops is back! Former GW basketball player Pops Mensah-Bonsu is in town today with his NBA team, the Toronto Raptors to face the Washington Wizards in a 7pm game at the Verizon Center.
In honor of his achievements, Student Associations senators Steve Glatter and Michelle Tanney along with several co-sponsors put forth “a resolution to honor the greatness of Pops Mensah-Bonsu.”
The legislation reads:
WHEREAS Nana Papa Yaw Dwene Mensah-Bonsu, generally known as Pops Mensah-Bonsu, put every backboard in the A-10 on notice during his reign at GW; and,
WHEREAS Pops, along with his teammates, led the Colonials to the 2005 NCAA Tournament and a 26-1 record and another NCAA Tournament berth in 2006 along with a Top 10 national ranking; and,
WHEREAS Pops, though not drafted by an NBA team, never wavered in his commitment to his dream to play in the NBA; and,
WHEREAS Pops scorched the NBA D-League by posting averages of 26.6 points, 13 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game; and,
WHEREAS on March 6, 2009, Pops was signed by the NBA’s Toronto Raptors for the rest of the 2008-2009 season; and,
WHEREAS that same day, Pops introduced himself to Toronto’s fans by pulling down a game-high 10 rebounds in only 15 minutes of playing time; therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED THAT The George Washington Student Association honors Pops Mensah-Bonsu for his achievements in the sport of basketball and grovel at the feet of his overall greatness; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT The SA encourages all students to watch Pops patrol the paint on April 13, 2009, when his Toronto Raptors visit the Washington Wizards; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT The SA shall recognize September 7, Pops’ birthday, as “Pops Mensah-Bonsu Day.”
The legislation was presented to Mensah-Bonsu at a BBQ held in Veterans Park, sponsored by SAC and the Colonial Army with the Colonial Brass and many members of GW's athletic community present. Benson Mensah-Bonsu, Pop's brother and a sophomore at GW, was also in attendence to raffle Pops memorabilia to help Team Lucas, a charity raising money for a 13 year old boy battling brain cancer. Shirts reading "Pops Day" and free tickets to tonight's game were distributed to students who came to the event.
- Mallory Thompson
Friday, April 10, 2009
Fanny Packs Pack Metro
844,978 people took Metro on Thursday April 9th making it the sixth largest weekday crowd in the history of the 33-year old system. The Cherry Blossom Festival and the NCAA Frozen Four Ice Hockey Tournament at the Verizon center contributed to the spike in ridership.
Metrorail’s Top 10 Weekday Ridership Days
Date Ridership Event
1 01-20-09 1,120,000 Obama Inauguration
2 01-19-09 866,681 Obama inaugural events
3 07-11-08 854,638 Baseball/Women of Faith Conference
4 06-09-04 850,636 Reagan State Funeral
5 06-25-08 846,388 Smithsonian Folklife Festival/Baseball
6 04-09-09 844,978 Cherry Blossoms/ Frozen Four
7 07-10-08 844,530 Baseball
8 07-08-08 835,072 Baseball/Basketball
9 07-02-08 834,956 Smithsonian Folklife Festival
10 04-03-07 831,508 Cherry Blossoms/Baseball
Source: Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority
- Jesse Regis
Admissions and April Visits
If you’re seeing a surprising amount of younger students on campus recently, it’s because each April the admissions office hosts a series of open house days to give admitted students an opportunity to see our campus.
This year, the incoming freshman class is one of the most ethnically diverse ever, but the university has not become more selective. Multicultural students make up about 34 percent of the class of 2012, a six percent increase from last year, but the acceptance rate is relatively stagnant since 2005, at 37%.
Kathy Napper, dean of undergraduate admissions, has said the freshmen come from more than 1,300 high schools in 48 states and 48 foreign countries and about 9% are from the U.S. territories and abroad. The increased diversity is apparently a result of a push by the admissions office for more minority students that included two on-campus open houses and events for visiting minorities planned with the help of student cultural organizations. About 67 percent of incoming freshman were in the top 10 percent of their high schools, and the average SAT score is 1935.
During their April visit, these students can meet with deans, faculty, and advisors, take campus tours, talk with GW students, and preview residence halls. Events will be held April 13, 15, and 21.
This year, the incoming freshman class is one of the most ethnically diverse ever, but the university has not become more selective. Multicultural students make up about 34 percent of the class of 2012, a six percent increase from last year, but the acceptance rate is relatively stagnant since 2005, at 37%.
Kathy Napper, dean of undergraduate admissions, has said the freshmen come from more than 1,300 high schools in 48 states and 48 foreign countries and about 9% are from the U.S. territories and abroad. The increased diversity is apparently a result of a push by the admissions office for more minority students that included two on-campus open houses and events for visiting minorities planned with the help of student cultural organizations. About 67 percent of incoming freshman were in the top 10 percent of their high schools, and the average SAT score is 1935.
During their April visit, these students can meet with deans, faculty, and advisors, take campus tours, talk with GW students, and preview residence halls. Events will be held April 13, 15, and 21.
News In Depth 4/12/09
News in Depth is on an Easter hiatus and will return NEXT SUNDAY, APRIL 19TH!
Stay tuned for all new LIVE installments of WRGW News' flagship program - Sundays from 12 to 1!
Happy Holidays!
- Jared & Jesse
Stay tuned for all new LIVE installments of WRGW News' flagship program - Sundays from 12 to 1!
Happy Holidays!
- Jared & Jesse
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Developing Story: Pres. Aswani Vetoes Election-Reform Bill
Update: 10:26 a.m.
In a statement released to WRGW News, Melissa Meyer, Chair of the Marvin Center Governing Board claims that the body was never approached to discuss the proposed reform in SB-09-13, which would have changed the length of the board's general election to a single day rather than the current two.
"No changes to the election format have ever been proposed or discussed with the Marvin Center Governing Board. As a Board we are welcome to the discussion of the issue if ever proposed." - Melissa Meyer, Chair, Marvin Center Governing Board
Posted: 1:48 a.m.
After a prolonged election season a bill intended to change the length of the general and run-off elections from two days to one day each was vetoed by Student Association President Vishal Aswani Thursday night based on what he claims is a lack of support from two organizations whose elections would be impacted by the move.
Sponsored by current Senator and unsuccessful Presidential candidate Nick Polk (U-At-Large) SB-09-13, "A Bill to Adjust the JEC Charter to Online Voting" passed through the Senate last week.
After what he said were "lengthy deliberations," Aswani used the veto pen for just the second time in his administration and released the following statement:
“While the bill itself has significant positive attributes given the elections are now held fully online, I can not justify any legislation that has an impact on Marvin Center Governing Board or Program Board elections without support from both bodies.”
The bill would have taken effect May 1, 2009. The future of the bill remains unclear.
WRGW will have more information as it becomes available.
In a statement released to WRGW News, Melissa Meyer, Chair of the Marvin Center Governing Board claims that the body was never approached to discuss the proposed reform in SB-09-13, which would have changed the length of the board's general election to a single day rather than the current two.
"No changes to the election format have ever been proposed or discussed with the Marvin Center Governing Board. As a Board we are welcome to the discussion of the issue if ever proposed." - Melissa Meyer, Chair, Marvin Center Governing Board
Posted: 1:48 a.m.
After a prolonged election season a bill intended to change the length of the general and run-off elections from two days to one day each was vetoed by Student Association President Vishal Aswani Thursday night based on what he claims is a lack of support from two organizations whose elections would be impacted by the move.
Sponsored by current Senator and unsuccessful Presidential candidate Nick Polk (U-At-Large) SB-09-13, "A Bill to Adjust the JEC Charter to Online Voting" passed through the Senate last week.
After what he said were "lengthy deliberations," Aswani used the veto pen for just the second time in his administration and released the following statement:
“While the bill itself has significant positive attributes given the elections are now held fully online, I can not justify any legislation that has an impact on Marvin Center Governing Board or Program Board elections without support from both bodies.”
The bill would have taken effect May 1, 2009. The future of the bill remains unclear.
WRGW will have more information as it becomes available.
- Jesse Regis
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Law & Order: GWU
First up this week, a fire alarm activated in New Hall, resulted in the evacuation of the building. University Police and local fire crews responded to the scene to find no evidence of an emergency. A pull station was purportedly activated manually, for no known reason. The case is still open.
University Police was contacted by an employee of Gelman Library for a case of disorderly conduct. The employee discovered that an individual had defecated on the floor of the library. The perpetrator is still at large.
A report of a suspicious odor in Munson Hall prompted officers to make contact with the room in question. They received no response after knocking, so the officers entered the room and found a male individual engaged in suspicious activity. The community director was contacted to perform an administrative search, which yield point-4 grams of marijuana and paraphernalia.
A male GW student reported his room key missing after an off-campus robbery. The student was in Ohio when his set of keys and car were stolen. The car was found; the keys were not.
A female GW student contacted UPD to report an off-campus robbery that occurred on L Street. The student got out of a cab at 22nd and L Streets, and then saw a male subject following her. He purportedly shouted, “Give me your money!” twice, and the girl held out her cash. He then took the money and her cell phone from her hand and ran after seeing someone else coming. The student reported the case to both UPD and Metro Police, and the investigation is still ongoing.
- Jenn Neuner
What To Do This Holiday Weekend
Stuck in DC for the holidays? Don’t worry there are plenty to of ways to celebrate here. Tonight is the first night of Passover and many will be celebrating at GW Hillel, but unfortunately you had to reserve your Seder dinner prior to the event. Although it may take a little bit of effort to get there, the B’Nai Israel Congregation will be hosting the First Night Passover Seder in Rockville Maryland. It begins at 7:00 pm, but it will cost you $50. There are also plenty of restaurants in DC with a Passover menu; for example, the Hudson Restaurant - only a few blocks from campus - will have a special menu from April 8th to the 10th.
If you are looking for Easter festivities, there are a bunch happening in DC, Maryland, and Virginia. On Monday, April 13, is the annual Easter Egg Roll at the White House, but you will need a ticket and a child under 10 years old to attend. Also on Monday, head over to the National Zoo, admission is free and there will egg hunts, egg decorating, and entertainment. This Saturday there will also be an egg hunt in Alexandria at Gadsby’s Tavern, admission is $5. Don’t forget your Easter basket!
You do not have to go out to celebrate the holidays. Have your own Passover Seder or Easter dinner. Foodnetwork.com has tons of recipes, including kugel and brisket for Passover and lamb, ham, and cupcakes for Easter. Enjoy!
If you are looking for Easter festivities, there are a bunch happening in DC, Maryland, and Virginia. On Monday, April 13, is the annual Easter Egg Roll at the White House, but you will need a ticket and a child under 10 years old to attend. Also on Monday, head over to the National Zoo, admission is free and there will egg hunts, egg decorating, and entertainment. This Saturday there will also be an egg hunt in Alexandria at Gadsby’s Tavern, admission is $5. Don’t forget your Easter basket!
You do not have to go out to celebrate the holidays. Have your own Passover Seder or Easter dinner. Foodnetwork.com has tons of recipes, including kugel and brisket for Passover and lamb, ham, and cupcakes for Easter. Enjoy!
-Roxanne Martin
RECAP: News in Depth 4/5/9
Kyle Boyer reflects on his presidential run, his tenure as EVP and provides advice going forward AND President-Elect Julie Bindelglass sits down for her first full-length interview...
Those were the topics this past Sunday on WRGW’s News in Depth with Jared Pliner & Jesse Regis. In the first segment, Boyer’s Friday exclusive interview with the WRGW 6 o’clock news team was re-aired, as Bindelglass listened intently in studio t0 his advice for the coming year and the next administration.
In the second half hour, President-Elect Julie Bindelglass addressed personal criticism (that she is stiff, over-polished, ingenuine etc.) and laid down her plans for her first 100 days in office. She and EVP-Elect Jason Lifton will be sworn in on April 30th.
And for the very best in college radio, tune in to News in Depth w/ Jared Pliner & Jesse Regis on Sundays from 12 to 1...only on one station: GW Radio!
Listen to our conversations with both by clicking on "News in Depth" at the top of the page.
Those were the topics this past Sunday on WRGW’s News in Depth with Jared Pliner & Jesse Regis. In the first segment, Boyer’s Friday exclusive interview with the WRGW 6 o’clock news team was re-aired, as Bindelglass listened intently in studio t0 his advice for the coming year and the next administration.
In the second half hour, President-Elect Julie Bindelglass addressed personal criticism (that she is stiff, over-polished, ingenuine etc.) and laid down her plans for her first 100 days in office. She and EVP-Elect Jason Lifton will be sworn in on April 30th.
And for the very best in college radio, tune in to News in Depth w/ Jared Pliner & Jesse Regis on Sundays from 12 to 1...only on one station: GW Radio!
Listen to our conversations with both by clicking on "News in Depth" at the top of the page.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Pelham Raising
Students, Faculty, and the surrounding community were invited to witness the official building rising of Pelham Hall this past Friday. The event began the official start to reconstruction of the Mt. Vernon residence hall, which is set to house 287 students in addition to three apartments for staff, a black-box theater, a dining hall, and classrooms. The building is expected to be open for the Fall 2010 semester.
At the event, Forbidden Planet Productions performed a piece for their upcoming play, followed by words from GW Trustee, formerly a Mount Vernon College Trustee and alumna, who was a former resident of Pelham Hall during its original release.The alumna fondly recollected memories of holding parties on the balconies, disrupting the peace of the surrounding area, and hiding alcohol on those balconies. She went on to mention that the new design of Pelham Hall will be less disruptive for the neighborhood. Pelham Hall is slated to earn a Silver Medal for environmental-friendliness once completed.
At the conclusion of the event, President Knapp, as well as members of the Board of Trustees and Campaign GW, laid down cement, officially marking the start of construction for what is to be considered the highlight of the Mount Vernon Campus in upcoming years.
At the event, Forbidden Planet Productions performed a piece for their upcoming play, followed by words from GW Trustee, formerly a Mount Vernon College Trustee and alumna, who was a former resident of Pelham Hall during its original release.The alumna fondly recollected memories of holding parties on the balconies, disrupting the peace of the surrounding area, and hiding alcohol on those balconies. She went on to mention that the new design of Pelham Hall will be less disruptive for the neighborhood. Pelham Hall is slated to earn a Silver Medal for environmental-friendliness once completed.
At the conclusion of the event, President Knapp, as well as members of the Board of Trustees and Campaign GW, laid down cement, officially marking the start of construction for what is to be considered the highlight of the Mount Vernon Campus in upcoming years.
- Zahin Hasan
Monday, April 6, 2009
Peace Jam Raises Money for 'Invisible Children'
Students rocked out Saturday night while simultaneously raising money for a good cause.
Peace Jam, a concert whose proceeds will directly help 14 children in Africa who have been child soldiers or prisoners of war, had raised over $20,000 for this cause by the end of the night through ticket sales, which were $15 per person.
The concert featured performances by Cause, Vizion dance team from Howard University, the Flowers High School step team, UPenn a capella group Penn Masala, Lucky Dubb and Family Portrait. Slam Poets Messiah and Jonathan Walton hosted the event.
Henna Sharma, who was Promotion Chair for Peace Jam and a group liaison for the Flowers High School step team, said “the program was a success,” and that the money raised will help these children gain scholarships to come to universities in the US next year.
Peace Jam was a part of Africa Week 2009, a series of events held on the GW campus aimed at raising awareness about the history, culture, and current events of Africa. Other events included a lecture on child labor in the cocoa industry, a discussion with State Department Foreign Affairs Officers Simone Joseph and Stuart Cramptom, Dodgeball for Darfur and the Third Annual International Festival, which featured international entertainment and cuisine and raised money for GW-UNICEF.
Africa Week 2009 was co-sponsored by several GW organizations, including GW Books for Africa, GW Students for Fair Trade, GW Warchild, and GW Ahimsa.
Peace Jam, a concert whose proceeds will directly help 14 children in Africa who have been child soldiers or prisoners of war, had raised over $20,000 for this cause by the end of the night through ticket sales, which were $15 per person.
The concert featured performances by Cause, Vizion dance team from Howard University, the Flowers High School step team, UPenn a capella group Penn Masala, Lucky Dubb and Family Portrait. Slam Poets Messiah and Jonathan Walton hosted the event.
Henna Sharma, who was Promotion Chair for Peace Jam and a group liaison for the Flowers High School step team, said “the program was a success,” and that the money raised will help these children gain scholarships to come to universities in the US next year.
Peace Jam was a part of Africa Week 2009, a series of events held on the GW campus aimed at raising awareness about the history, culture, and current events of Africa. Other events included a lecture on child labor in the cocoa industry, a discussion with State Department Foreign Affairs Officers Simone Joseph and Stuart Cramptom, Dodgeball for Darfur and the Third Annual International Festival, which featured international entertainment and cuisine and raised money for GW-UNICEF.
Africa Week 2009 was co-sponsored by several GW organizations, including GW Books for Africa, GW Students for Fair Trade, GW Warchild, and GW Ahimsa.
Friday, April 3, 2009
DC Sports Roundup
In Basketball, the Washington Wizards lost a tight game at home against the Chicago Bulls on Monday. The final score was 99 to 101. The Wizards redeemed themselves on Wednesday with a 95 to 93 victory over Charlotte.
Despite the win, the Wizards have officially been eliminated from the NBA playoffs. They are the first team in the Eastern conference to earn that distinction. Their next game is at home on Saturday against Detroit.
In Hockey, the Washington Capitals lost on Tuesday against the Toronto Maple Leafs in a game that was decided by a shoot out. The final score was 2 to 3. Brooks Laich scored the game tying goal with only 57 seconds left in the third period to save the Caps from losing in regulation. Toronto goalie Martin Gerber was ejected after incurring a game misconduct penalty for shoving a referee after Laich’s goal. Toronto’s backup goaltender Curtis Joseph, known as CuJo, had a stellar performance that ultimately decided the game. The Capitals play their next game tonight at home against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Keeping with Hockey, the NCAA Men’s Ice Hockey playoffs begin tonight. The nation’s top sixteen teams will be competing for a spot in the Frozen Four, which will be held right here in Washington, D.C at the Verizon Center.
-Joe Lewis
90's Nostalgia?
Now that we're almost a full decade into this new millennium, it only seems appropriate that a yearning for simpler, more decent times is making itself known. If you want a taste of the 90s this weekend - The Black Cat will surely fill that void. The Dance Party actually has a 90s vs. 00s theme, featuring DJs
Will Eastman and Brian Billion. Tonight is a chance to groove to TLC, Bell Biv Devoe, Spice Girls and Oasis. But that's not all! Relive those Early 2000s middle school days of jamming out to Missy Eliot, Blink-182, and Eminem. The event is $10 at The Black Cat. Go to Blackcatdc.com for more information.
If dance-partying isn't an ideal way to spend a Friday night - try getting your grunge on with the consistently underrated band - Superdrag. Their alternative/pop rock sound is soo deliciously and stereotypically 90s. While the band has more or less faded into oblivion since their 1995 hit "Sucked Out" - seeing them might just be worth it, if nothing else to relive some serious 90s memories. The tickets are $18 at the 9:30 Club box-office.
If neither strike you, well The Fresh Prince of Bell Air is showing on ABC Family 12:00 AM. You can also find Slick Willy on TBS, every morning at 9:00 AM. Relive 90s glory every morning and just try saying no to the Fresh Prince.
-Shawn Willis
Will Eastman and Brian Billion. Tonight is a chance to groove to TLC, Bell Biv Devoe, Spice Girls and Oasis. But that's not all! Relive those Early 2000s middle school days of jamming out to Missy Eliot, Blink-182, and Eminem. The event is $10 at The Black Cat. Go to Blackcatdc.com for more information.If dance-partying isn't an ideal way to spend a Friday night - try getting your grunge on with the consistently underrated band - Superdrag. Their alternative/pop rock sound is soo deliciously and stereotypically 90s. While the band has more or less faded into oblivion since their 1995 hit "Sucked Out" - seeing them might just be worth it, if nothing else to relive some serious 90s memories. The tickets are $18 at the 9:30 Club box-office.
If neither strike you, well The Fresh Prince of Bell Air is showing on ABC Family 12:00 AM. You can also find Slick Willy on TBS, every morning at 9:00 AM. Relive 90s glory every morning and just try saying no to the Fresh Prince.
-Shawn Willis
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Cherry Blossom Parade on Saturday
In late March and early April of every year, tourists flock to Washington DC to see the beautiful Cherry Blossom Festival. This year, there is a general sense of disappointment with the weather for the peak blooming period, which was revised to April 1st through 4th. Expect scattered thunderstorms this Friday, but some sunshine with a high of 65 degrees on Saturday, the last day of the peak blooming period.
This Saturday is probably the best time to go out and walk around the Tidal Basin, the centerpiece of the Cherry Blossom Festival, if you have not had the opportunity to see it yet. Saturday is also the day of the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade, which runs along Constitution Avenue from 7th to 17th Streets from 10am – noon, rain or shine. The parade will feature giant balloons such as Kermit the Frog and Hello Kitty, marching bands and celebrity performers including Jeopardy! host Alex Trebek, American Idol second season finalist Kimberley Locke, Grammy award-winning disco diva Thelma Houston, Disney Radio star Joey Page sings, and Miss America 2009, Katie Stam. The Parade will salute Broadway with two musical performances: the cast of Chicago, who is in town at the National Theater until April 12th, will perform “All That Jazz”. MAMMA MIA! Is also slated to perform timeless ABBA classics including Mamma Mia!, Waterloo and Dancing Queen! Hosts for the parade are ABC 7 and NewsChannel 8 anchors Doug McKelway, Alison Starling and Beverly Kirk. The event is, of course, free and open to the public.
This Saturday is probably the best time to go out and walk around the Tidal Basin, the centerpiece of the Cherry Blossom Festival, if you have not had the opportunity to see it yet. Saturday is also the day of the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade, which runs along Constitution Avenue from 7th to 17th Streets from 10am – noon, rain or shine. The parade will feature giant balloons such as Kermit the Frog and Hello Kitty, marching bands and celebrity performers including Jeopardy! host Alex Trebek, American Idol second season finalist Kimberley Locke, Grammy award-winning disco diva Thelma Houston, Disney Radio star Joey Page sings, and Miss America 2009, Katie Stam. The Parade will salute Broadway with two musical performances: the cast of Chicago, who is in town at the National Theater until April 12th, will perform “All That Jazz”. MAMMA MIA! Is also slated to perform timeless ABBA classics including Mamma Mia!, Waterloo and Dancing Queen! Hosts for the parade are ABC 7 and NewsChannel 8 anchors Doug McKelway, Alison Starling and Beverly Kirk. The event is, of course, free and open to the public.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
An April Fools Joke...
or not? Go to the student association webpage to decide for yourself. Apparently, the website has been suspended by the parent company.
[caption id="attachment_1688" align="aligncenter" width="472" caption="A screenshot of the Student Association website."]
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[caption id="attachment_1688" align="aligncenter" width="472" caption="A screenshot of the Student Association website."]
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Law & Order: GWU
First up on Law and Order, University Police was called to the scene of a small fire on the H Street side of the Marvin Center. The contents of a garbage can there were on fire. After dousing the flames, officers investigated the scene and discovered motor oil cans at the bottom of the garbage can. However, they were unable to determine if the fire was set accidentally or on purpose.
A report of disorderly conduct was made up for an individual unaffiliated with GW after he utilized the blue light telephone security system without cause. The alarm was hit at the corner of 22nd Street and Pennsylvania Avenue. When officers arrived, they found a man hanging on to the phone, severely intoxicated. The individual apparently became argumentative and began to shout obscenities at both UPD officers and the DC Fire and EMS crew that arrived to treat him. The man signed a refusal for medical treatment, and was barred from campus.
An officer on patrol filed a report of destruction of property on public property on campus in front of Tompkins Hall. The officer heard a loud crash and observed a male GW student walking away from an overturned motor scooter. The student admitted to knocking over the scooter, which had minor damage from the incident. The student was arrested by the officer on the charge of destruction of property.
University Police were called to Building H at 2000 G Street, which houses multiple counseling practices associated with GW, for reports of a suspicious person loitering. Officers made contact with the individual who stated that he had an appointment with the community legal clinic located in the building. However, the man was speaking incomprehensibly and making nonsensical statements, and was otherwise uncooperative. The individual was thereafter barred from campus.
The Dakota Apartments were the scene of unlawful possession of alcohol after UPD officers responded to a noise complaint. While making contact with the room in question, the officers saw alcohol in plain view. There were 24 individuals in the room, all of who were subjected to sobriety tests. None of the individuals required further medical treatment. All non-GW students who were present were barred from campus, and the alcohol was disposed of.
- Jenn Neuner
What's up with all of the Crime Alerts?
The email inboxes of GW students have recently been filled with Crime Alerts reporting robberies and attempted robberies in the Foggy Bottom area.
According to Inspector Mark Balazik of the University Police Department, the increase in robberies can be attributed to the suffering economy. People are feeling the pressure of money problems and thus resorting to larceny. But it is not just the people feeling this stress; prisons can no longer afford to keep individuals locked up unnecessarily, and therefore more people are being paroled.
Avoid becoming a target. Inspector Balazik recommends that students do NOT talk on cell phones for security when walking alone, or walk around listening to their iPods. Look around you, and be aware of anyone acting suspiciously. Balazik says to make eye contact to appear more confrontational – people who are looking to steal will look for people who are distracted, or not going to put up a fight. And don’t forget to listen to WRGW News to give you the latest on campus crime and crime prevention.
- Jenn Neuner
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