The George Washington University Graduate School of Political Management launched a new website this month, PoliticsUnder30.org, in an effort to promote the dissemination of information about careers in politics.
A recent press release by the school said that recent polling indicated that "85% of respondents answered yes when asked if having a comprehensive Web site with information about jobs in politics would encourage them to pursue a career in politics." To help satiate this desire for more information, PoliticsUnder30 hopes to provide a central location for "job seeking tips, resume building advice, and a support structure, for young people in politics" said Bryce Cullinane, founder of the website and a graduate student in the School of Political Management.
The website features interviews with such luminaries as Obama Campaign Manager David Plouffe and New York Representative Tim Bishop, along with other behind-the-scenes functionaries from across Washington. So dedicated is the website to obtaining first-hand knowledge from current and former politicos that it has declared the goal of interviewing all 535 members of the 111th Congress by the end of 2010.
Also available are daily political job postings, a calendar dedicated to various political events happening around the city, and a central listing of scholarships categorized by state of origin.
F. Christopher Arterton, dean of the School of Political Management, described the purpose of the website in the press release as "[helping] the young people of today become the political leaders of tomorrow."
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!
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
P!nk Flies High in "Funhouse" Tour
[caption id="attachment_2771" align="alignleft" width="225" caption="P!nk soared at the Patriot Center as she burst out from under the stage."]
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In a pop music climate that has ditched talent as a prerequisite for super-stardom in exchange for the erotic, the bombastic, and the indulgently spectacular, P!nk’s “Funhouse” tour manages to seamlessly blend fantastical theatrical elements with vocal superiority.
P!nk turned the Patriot Center at GMU into a Funhouse Monday, impressing an enthusiastic audience with exceptional stagecraft, erratic costumes (at one point dressed merely in ribbon and glitter), and killer choreography flanked by several dancers.
English rock duo The Ting Tings were on first to get the party started (pun very much intended) with a host of crowd-pleasers, including such catchy numbers as “Shut Up And Let Me Go,” “Great DJ,” and of course their breakout hit single, notorious for how easily it gets stuck in one’s head, “That’s Not My Name.” Banging on a bass drum and a cowbell while jumping around the stage, lead vocalist Katie White left the audience riled up and ready for the main attraction.
And P!nk knows how to make an entrance. After a video introduction featuring an intense cover of “Highway to Hell,” the pop icon burst out from under the stage, flying high into the air with a feather dress billowing down below her as she started belting out “Bad Influence,” one of the more upbeat songs from her new album, “Funhouse,” for which the tour was named. And the fun continued from there, with most of her old and new chart-toppers making apperances, including old hits “Just Like a Pill” and “Don’t Let Me Get Me,” and some of her newer singles, such as “Who Knew” and “Please Don’t Leave Me.” “Leave Me Alone (I’m Lonely)” saw P!nk frolicking across
[caption id="attachment_2779" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Even without the flare, P!nk commanded the stage with powerful vocal performances."]
[/caption]
the stage and bouncing around on a heart-shaped pillow, and during “So What,” a pillow fight erupted onstage between the scantily-clad dancers. Those who saw her performance of “Sober” at the MTV Video Music Awards were delighted to see a repeat performance, this time with one of the dancers flying through the air as she belted out the chorus below. And large, terrifying blow-up clowns towered ominously over the singer as she led the crowd in a hysterical cover of Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody.”
[caption id="attachment_2781" align="alignleft" width="225" caption="P!nk floats along during a dazzling performance of "Glitter in the Air""]
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The encore, a stunning rendition of “Glitter in the Air,” perfectly demonstrated this marriage of voice with visual enhancements, as P!nk drifted gracefully through the air under a human cradle as she belted out one of her most beautiful new songs. At one point, she was dipped into a pool below the stage and came back up bathed in water and glitter to cheers of wonderment and awe from the amazed crowd. As the song finished, the cradle gently glided towards the back of the stage as the words “The End” faded in on the backdrop, written in glitter. A concert that opened with a bang closed with a sparkle.
[/caption]In a pop music climate that has ditched talent as a prerequisite for super-stardom in exchange for the erotic, the bombastic, and the indulgently spectacular, P!nk’s “Funhouse” tour manages to seamlessly blend fantastical theatrical elements with vocal superiority.
P!nk turned the Patriot Center at GMU into a Funhouse Monday, impressing an enthusiastic audience with exceptional stagecraft, erratic costumes (at one point dressed merely in ribbon and glitter), and killer choreography flanked by several dancers.
English rock duo The Ting Tings were on first to get the party started (pun very much intended) with a host of crowd-pleasers, including such catchy numbers as “Shut Up And Let Me Go,” “Great DJ,” and of course their breakout hit single, notorious for how easily it gets stuck in one’s head, “That’s Not My Name.” Banging on a bass drum and a cowbell while jumping around the stage, lead vocalist Katie White left the audience riled up and ready for the main attraction.
And P!nk knows how to make an entrance. After a video introduction featuring an intense cover of “Highway to Hell,” the pop icon burst out from under the stage, flying high into the air with a feather dress billowing down below her as she started belting out “Bad Influence,” one of the more upbeat songs from her new album, “Funhouse,” for which the tour was named. And the fun continued from there, with most of her old and new chart-toppers making apperances, including old hits “Just Like a Pill” and “Don’t Let Me Get Me,” and some of her newer singles, such as “Who Knew” and “Please Don’t Leave Me.” “Leave Me Alone (I’m Lonely)” saw P!nk frolicking across
[caption id="attachment_2779" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Even without the flare, P!nk commanded the stage with powerful vocal performances."]
[/caption]the stage and bouncing around on a heart-shaped pillow, and during “So What,” a pillow fight erupted onstage between the scantily-clad dancers. Those who saw her performance of “Sober” at the MTV Video Music Awards were delighted to see a repeat performance, this time with one of the dancers flying through the air as she belted out the chorus below. And large, terrifying blow-up clowns towered ominously over the singer as she led the crowd in a hysterical cover of Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody.”
But the high points of the concert weren’t the stunts, the dancing, or the stagecraft. No, the best parts of the show were the ballads, the low-key numbers that were stripped of all the enthusiasm and all the spectacle. Performances like “I Don’t Believe You,” “Family Portrait,” and an acoustic version of “Trouble” had the audience enraptured; without the flare and the fluff, we were given a real treat: seeing P!nk in her element, commandeering the stage not with high dives and twirls, but with vibrato and emotion. When she wasn’t soaring, her vocals were, and those in attendance were ecstatic to find that a singer who sounds so good in the studio, sounds even better in the concert hall.
[caption id="attachment_2781" align="alignleft" width="225" caption="P!nk floats along during a dazzling performance of "Glitter in the Air""]
[/caption]The encore, a stunning rendition of “Glitter in the Air,” perfectly demonstrated this marriage of voice with visual enhancements, as P!nk drifted gracefully through the air under a human cradle as she belted out one of her most beautiful new songs. At one point, she was dipped into a pool below the stage and came back up bathed in water and glitter to cheers of wonderment and awe from the amazed crowd. As the song finished, the cradle gently glided towards the back of the stage as the words “The End” faded in on the backdrop, written in glitter. A concert that opened with a bang closed with a sparkle.
P!nk knows how to put on a good show. The theatrics are there, but only to enhance the music; and, even better, sometimes she allows the music to speak for itself, which is when her true talent is put on display. P!nk represents something that these days is missing from the pop music scene: a potent combination of vocal ability and showmanship. Britney entertains and Lady Gaga shocks, but an evening with P!nk is an evening you won’t soon forget.
Tickets Released on Thursday for Secs. Clinton, Gates
Tickets for the October 5th conversation with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Secretary of Defense Robert Gates will be distributed Thursday morning at 9am at the Lisner Auditorium box office.
There is a limit of one ticket per person. You will be asked to present your GWorld card.
Those that do not receive a ticket from the Lisner box office are welcome to wait in a stand-by line on Monday, October 5.
The event will be moderated by GW School of Media and Public Affairs Director Frank Sesno and CNN Chief International Correspondent Christiane Amanpour.
The program will be broadcast domestically and internationally on CNN and air in the United States at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, October 6, as part of a special program for CNN's launch of Amanpour. A one-hour radio special will be produced and distributed by America Abroad Media internationally and to 240 radio stations in the United States.
It's co-hosted by the GW School of Media and Public Affairs, part of the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, and the GW Elliott School of International Affairs, and in association with the university's Institute of Public Diplomacy and Global Communication.
There is a limit of one ticket per person. You will be asked to present your GWorld card.
Those that do not receive a ticket from the Lisner box office are welcome to wait in a stand-by line on Monday, October 5.
The event will be moderated by GW School of Media and Public Affairs Director Frank Sesno and CNN Chief International Correspondent Christiane Amanpour.
The program will be broadcast domestically and internationally on CNN and air in the United States at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, October 6, as part of a special program for CNN's launch of Amanpour. A one-hour radio special will be produced and distributed by America Abroad Media internationally and to 240 radio stations in the United States.
It's co-hosted by the GW School of Media and Public Affairs, part of the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, and the GW Elliott School of International Affairs, and in association with the university's Institute of Public Diplomacy and Global Communication.
The Future of the Newspaper at Monday's Kalb Report
On Monday October 5th the sixteenth season of The Kalb Report will launch at the National Press Club with “Ink on the Brink: The Future of Print Journalism”.
This session will focus on the future of print journalism in the United States, and the rest of the world. It will be moderated by Marvin Kalb.
Guests include Marcus Brauchili, executive editor of The Washington Post, Cynthia Tucker, columnist of the Atlanta Journal- Constitution, Anne Bagamery, senior editor of the International Herald Tribune, and David Hunke, president and publisher of USA Today. At the end of the interview there will be a Q&A between the audience and the guests.
The Kalb Report is produced by George Washington University, Harvard University, and the National Press Club. It is a four part series and has featured an array of prominent guests including, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Nobel Prize winner Eli Weisel, Christiane Amanpour, and Walter Cronkite. Guests for the next three episodes have yet to be released.
Monday’s program will begin at 8:00 pm. Free tickets are available at GW TicketMaster located on the ground floor of the Marvin Center.
Be sure to stay tuned for a recap of Monday’s Kalb Report on WRGW News.
This session will focus on the future of print journalism in the United States, and the rest of the world. It will be moderated by Marvin Kalb.
Guests include Marcus Brauchili, executive editor of The Washington Post, Cynthia Tucker, columnist of the Atlanta Journal- Constitution, Anne Bagamery, senior editor of the International Herald Tribune, and David Hunke, president and publisher of USA Today. At the end of the interview there will be a Q&A between the audience and the guests.
The Kalb Report is produced by George Washington University, Harvard University, and the National Press Club. It is a four part series and has featured an array of prominent guests including, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Nobel Prize winner Eli Weisel, Christiane Amanpour, and Walter Cronkite. Guests for the next three episodes have yet to be released.
Monday’s program will begin at 8:00 pm. Free tickets are available at GW TicketMaster located on the ground floor of the Marvin Center.
Be sure to stay tuned for a recap of Monday’s Kalb Report on WRGW News.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Michael Moore Speaks at GW, Slams Capitalism, Healthcare System
Filmmaker Michael Moore spoke at GW's Betts theater Tuesday afternoon. Listen to WRGW's feature below:
Michael Moore Speaks at GW
First WRGW News Poll Released
Over the course of the year, WRGW News will be conducting opinion polling to gauge the general opinions and sentiments of the student body. The polls will focus on what GW students think about national issues, campus issues, and will also survey students on their views on the Student Association, including its leaders and potential SA presidential election match ups later in the school year.
View the results of the WRGW News Poll here.
The first WRGW News Poll shows that students overwhelming reject YAF's (Young Americans Foundation) charge that Michelle Obama and the University are politicizing community service stemming from Obama's community service challenge.
The WRGW News Poll also finds that a plurality of non-freshmen feel that Kyle Boyer was unfairly kicked off the ballot by the JEC last year, and an overwhelming majority of students have a very poor opinion of the job performance of former SA president Vishal Aswani from last year.
There are many other questions in the poll, including questions on the swine flu, health care reform, and President Obama's approval rating, so check them out.
View the results of the WRGW News Poll here.
The first WRGW News Poll shows that students overwhelming reject YAF's (Young Americans Foundation) charge that Michelle Obama and the University are politicizing community service stemming from Obama's community service challenge.
The WRGW News Poll also finds that a plurality of non-freshmen feel that Kyle Boyer was unfairly kicked off the ballot by the JEC last year, and an overwhelming majority of students have a very poor opinion of the job performance of former SA president Vishal Aswani from last year.
There are many other questions in the poll, including questions on the swine flu, health care reform, and President Obama's approval rating, so check them out.
MTV: WRGW Among Top 25 Stations in U.S.
WRGW has advanced to the next round of voting for the MTV University Best College Radio Station Woodie Award.
With your help WRGW advanced from a field of 300 stations into the top 50. Your votes put us into the top 25.
The top 5 stations will be announced October 10th. Keep voting at http://radiowoodie.ratemyprofessors.com/?s=wrgw
With your help WRGW advanced from a field of 300 stations into the top 50. Your votes put us into the top 25.
The top 5 stations will be announced October 10th. Keep voting at http://radiowoodie.ratemyprofessors.com/?s=wrgw
BREAKING: Suspicious Package Found Near Fulbright and Tompkins Hall
Metropolitan Police, Secret Service agents, and University Police were found outside of Tompkins Hall of Engineering and Fulbright Hall, where a bus has been stopped in the middle of the road outside of Tompkins. Metropolitan Police have closed off the surrounding areas. The issue is reportedly a "suspicious package", but MPD will not discuss specifics. It is not known if the bus has anything to do with the alleged package.
UPDATE: The University has announced that the Foggy Bottom Metro station has now been closed.
UPDATE (3:56 pm): All areas that were previously closed have now been reopened.
UPDATE: The University has announced that the Foggy Bottom Metro station has now been closed.
UPDATE (3:56 pm): All areas that were previously closed have now been reopened.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Outside Groups Get the Boot From Marvin Center
The Marvin Center is now reserved specifically for university-sponsored events. In a release to campus media, the university said non-student focused activities will not be permitted to rent space in the building during the academic year.
“Student-use and student accessibility of the Marvin Center is a priority for the University,” said Robert Chernak, senior vice president of student and academic support services. “This new model will better meet the needs of students and give them a central spot on campus for study groups, meetings and other gatherings."
Lorraine Voles, vice president for external relations, will now oversee the majority of the major venues on campus, including all outdoor University spaces, 1918 F St., 1957 E St., Marvin Center, Lisner Auditorium and the Jack Morton Auditorium.
University Events and University Conferences will be led by Michael Peller in his newly created position as assistant vice president for events and venues.
Mr. Peller previously served as managing director of the Marvin Center and University Conferences. “Managing all of our on-campus venues in a single University division will make reserving space more accessible and efficient for students, staff and faculty,” said Ms. Voles. “This new organization will better serve the University community and allow us to maximize our outstanding resources.”
Specific details pertaining to new policies and information will be available on the University’s Web site.
“Student-use and student accessibility of the Marvin Center is a priority for the University,” said Robert Chernak, senior vice president of student and academic support services. “This new model will better meet the needs of students and give them a central spot on campus for study groups, meetings and other gatherings."
Lorraine Voles, vice president for external relations, will now oversee the majority of the major venues on campus, including all outdoor University spaces, 1918 F St., 1957 E St., Marvin Center, Lisner Auditorium and the Jack Morton Auditorium.
University Events and University Conferences will be led by Michael Peller in his newly created position as assistant vice president for events and venues.
Mr. Peller previously served as managing director of the Marvin Center and University Conferences. “Managing all of our on-campus venues in a single University division will make reserving space more accessible and efficient for students, staff and faculty,” said Ms. Voles. “This new organization will better serve the University community and allow us to maximize our outstanding resources.”
Specific details pertaining to new policies and information will be available on the University’s Web site.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Coming Up on News in Depth...
Dr. Roxanne Cox-Iyamu of the newly opened AIDS Healthcare Foundation Blair Underwood Healthcare Center on K Street will join WRGW's Jared Pliner and Jesse Regis this Sunday to talk about the District's HIV/AIDS epidemic, the clinic's anticipated impact on the community, prevention efforts and the pursuit of a successful vaccine.
All that and much more...THIS SUNDAY, from 12 to 1 p.m., on GWRadio.
All that and much more...THIS SUNDAY, from 12 to 1 p.m., on GWRadio.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Inspiring Social Change With Art
[caption id="attachment_2698" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Odelia Englander, the one voice participant who inspired Laura Westman. Photo courtesy of Rachel Feierman."]
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Art students and enthusiasts should take note of Artist as Citizen, an organization that is making a push to become more visible and involved on GWU’s campus this spring. The group asks art students to confront issues that impact American society and their own lives.
AAC was founded by Richard Reiss and Ian Umeda for art students who wanted to ask questions about society, but not in the way you might expect. They seek to momentarily not view the world through their artist lens but rather to ask questions about social issues from the standpoint of a typical citizen. The artists use their talents to express what they discovered.
Laura Westman, a GW senior and development intern at the organization, in transcribing and editing an interview, read about an individual named Odelia Englander who said, “I'm not naive in terms of, 'I can change the world.' But if I was able to readjust my own feelings, and contribute to even a small change in my way of living or thinking, and then you come into my environment, then there is something I can do, and I chose that way." Westman took the woman's thoughts to heart.
It was the first project Laura worked on for AAC. Called "The Realists," it was created by the photographer Rachel Feierman and was about the OneVoice movement in Israel and Palestine. Englander had a perspective that inspired Laura to describe the organization as having micro-effects on individuals with great potential to change the world.
Westman works with co-founder Richard Reiss, Westman was involved in creating channels through which students that do not consider themselves artists, but want to remain involved in the art world, can become part of AAC
Westman has been in contact with students and faculty at the Corcoran, and is currently working on opening up a dialogue with the Art Department here at GW.
Asked about the nature of the organization and how GW students can best participate, Westman said, “GW students are especially good at taking in information and assessing it, but if we could have more channels for output and exchange of ideas, I think it could really benefit us as a student body. We would be connected to other student bodies, and as individuals.”
Students who are interested in the organization can contact Westman directly at laura.westman@artistascitizen.org.
For more information: http://www.artistascitizen.com
[/caption]Art students and enthusiasts should take note of Artist as Citizen, an organization that is making a push to become more visible and involved on GWU’s campus this spring. The group asks art students to confront issues that impact American society and their own lives.
AAC was founded by Richard Reiss and Ian Umeda for art students who wanted to ask questions about society, but not in the way you might expect. They seek to momentarily not view the world through their artist lens but rather to ask questions about social issues from the standpoint of a typical citizen. The artists use their talents to express what they discovered.
Laura Westman, a GW senior and development intern at the organization, in transcribing and editing an interview, read about an individual named Odelia Englander who said, “I'm not naive in terms of, 'I can change the world.' But if I was able to readjust my own feelings, and contribute to even a small change in my way of living or thinking, and then you come into my environment, then there is something I can do, and I chose that way." Westman took the woman's thoughts to heart.
It was the first project Laura worked on for AAC. Called "The Realists," it was created by the photographer Rachel Feierman and was about the OneVoice movement in Israel and Palestine. Englander had a perspective that inspired Laura to describe the organization as having micro-effects on individuals with great potential to change the world.
Westman works with co-founder Richard Reiss, Westman was involved in creating channels through which students that do not consider themselves artists, but want to remain involved in the art world, can become part of AAC
Westman has been in contact with students and faculty at the Corcoran, and is currently working on opening up a dialogue with the Art Department here at GW.
Asked about the nature of the organization and how GW students can best participate, Westman said, “GW students are especially good at taking in information and assessing it, but if we could have more channels for output and exchange of ideas, I think it could really benefit us as a student body. We would be connected to other student bodies, and as individuals.”
Students who are interested in the organization can contact Westman directly at laura.westman@artistascitizen.org.
For more information: http://www.artistascitizen.com
Free Stuff, Flu Advice at GW Safety Expo
As part of National Preparedness Month, George Washington University hosted the GW Safety Expo this Wednesday, Sept 23 on University Yard.
The Expo featured safety information from GW Departments as well as local organizations, such as the District Department of Transportation, Metro Police Department, The American Red Cross and the DC Metro, whose representatives were handing out maps of the system and first aid kits. Other free giveaways included purified emergency water in a pouch as well as emergency Mylar Blankets, also known as Space Blankets.
Student Technology Services gave out free bouncy balls that light up, as well as toothbrushes--something students would never share--as a metaphorical reminder to never share your password either.
Perhaps the most popular station was our own Student Health Services, with information about the free flu shots on campus and ways to protect yourself against the flu.
More information on National Preparedness Month is available at http://www.ready.gov/.
A Veterans Roundtable on Sunday's News in Depth
Some 500 miltary veterans are students at GW, but what do you know about them?
Sunday's News in Depth discussed the issues facing the young men and women who return home from military service, and those who are slated to serve.
Hosts Jared Pliner and Jesse Regis talked to members of the GW Vets including co-founder Brian Hawthorne, Kevin Devaney, Michelle Miller, Ryan Bos and Tom Conley about how the university treats them, the educational benefits they do and do not receive, the new GI Bill, the "yellow ribbon" program, the challenges of post tramautic stress disorder, and how they readjust to life as students.
At the close of the program, the swine flu epidemic was at the forefront. Jared shared details of his conversation with Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, Education Secretary Arne Duncan and Dr. Beth Bell of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention about how H1N1 is affecting university life.
Click Here to Listen to September 20, 2009's News in Depth
Sunday's News in Depth discussed the issues facing the young men and women who return home from military service, and those who are slated to serve.
Hosts Jared Pliner and Jesse Regis talked to members of the GW Vets including co-founder Brian Hawthorne, Kevin Devaney, Michelle Miller, Ryan Bos and Tom Conley about how the university treats them, the educational benefits they do and do not receive, the new GI Bill, the "yellow ribbon" program, the challenges of post tramautic stress disorder, and how they readjust to life as students.
At the close of the program, the swine flu epidemic was at the forefront. Jared shared details of his conversation with Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, Education Secretary Arne Duncan and Dr. Beth Bell of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention about how H1N1 is affecting university life.
Click Here to Listen to September 20, 2009's News in Depth
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Student Association Appoints 3 Freshmen Senators
The Student Association Senate made several appointments to the legislative body on Tuesday night. The Senate appointed three freshmen senators: Kevin Curtin, Amanda Galonek, and Meredith Waters. Freshmen senators do not have actual voting rights in the SA Senate, and the position serves as more of a symbolic position.
Current SA Senators Erik Ashida (CCAS-UG) and Josh Goldstein (CCAS-UG) both served as freshmen senators last year.
Former SA president Nicole Capp notably served as a freshman non-voting senator. Julie Bindelglass was controversially appointed as a voting SA senator representing the Columbian College during her freshmen year, which drew some ire from the non-voting freshman senators that year.
Meredith Waters won the biggest applause from the Senate after she humorously emphasized being a total minority at GW since Waters is an African American, a public health major, and a Mount Vernon resident. Kevin Curtin won approval from the SA crowd after making a joke about SA senator Logan Dobson and complimenting the cookies that were handed out by several SA senators, but Curtin impressed the Senate by highlighting his interest in finance, which earned him a spot on the SA Finance Committee.
Current SA Senators Erik Ashida (CCAS-UG) and Josh Goldstein (CCAS-UG) both served as freshmen senators last year.
Former SA president Nicole Capp notably served as a freshman non-voting senator. Julie Bindelglass was controversially appointed as a voting SA senator representing the Columbian College during her freshmen year, which drew some ire from the non-voting freshman senators that year.
Meredith Waters won the biggest applause from the Senate after she humorously emphasized being a total minority at GW since Waters is an African American, a public health major, and a Mount Vernon resident. Kevin Curtin won approval from the SA crowd after making a joke about SA senator Logan Dobson and complimenting the cookies that were handed out by several SA senators, but Curtin impressed the Senate by highlighting his interest in finance, which earned him a spot on the SA Finance Committee.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Filmmaker Michael Moore to speak on campus
12:08 am
By Jesse Regis
Michael Moore, filmmaker, author, and political activist, will speak on campus next Tuesday, September 29th at an event sponsored by the GW College Democrats. The town hall style forum will discuss capitalism and its effect on young people.
The event will be taped and broadcast via ThinkTalk.com to 175 colleges throughout the country, reaching a possible audience of 3.5 million students, and 9 million homes.
Best known for his documentaries including "Bowling for Columbine," and "Fahrenheit 9/11," Moore's filmmaking style has generated both praise and controversy for its perceived political slants and methods of confronting his subjects.
2004's "Fahrenheit 9/11," which examines the aftermath of the September 11th terrorist attacks, remains the highest grossing documentary film of all time.
Moore will speak between 3:30-4:30pm in the Betts Theatre in the Marvin Center. It's open to the GW community.
The College Democrats are planning a screening of Moore's latest film, "Capitalism: A Love Story" at the AMC Lowe's in Georgetown sometime before September 29th. Details have not yet been released.
Watch the trailer for "Capitalism: A Love Story"
By Jesse Regis
Michael Moore, filmmaker, author, and political activist, will speak on campus next Tuesday, September 29th at an event sponsored by the GW College Democrats. The town hall style forum will discuss capitalism and its effect on young people.
The event will be taped and broadcast via ThinkTalk.com to 175 colleges throughout the country, reaching a possible audience of 3.5 million students, and 9 million homes.
Best known for his documentaries including "Bowling for Columbine," and "Fahrenheit 9/11," Moore's filmmaking style has generated both praise and controversy for its perceived political slants and methods of confronting his subjects.
2004's "Fahrenheit 9/11," which examines the aftermath of the September 11th terrorist attacks, remains the highest grossing documentary film of all time.
Moore will speak between 3:30-4:30pm in the Betts Theatre in the Marvin Center. It's open to the GW community.
The College Democrats are planning a screening of Moore's latest film, "Capitalism: A Love Story" at the AMC Lowe's in Georgetown sometime before September 29th. Details have not yet been released.
Watch the trailer for "Capitalism: A Love Story"
SA Freshman Appointments Meeting Live Blog - TONIGHT 9 PM
Join us for a night of incoherent banter and freshman SA senate appointments.
The fun all starts tonight at 9 pm.
The fun all starts tonight at 9 pm.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Obama Campaign Manager Plouffe Speaks On Campus
[caption id="attachment_2576" align="aligncenter" width="430" caption="Campaign Strategist David Plouffe talks about the role of young people in politics. Jesse Regis / WRGW News"]
[/caption]
By Jesse Regis
David Plouffe, veteran political strategist and President Obama's former Campaign Manger, spoke about the 2008 Presidential campaign and weighed in on issues facing the country at the Jack Morton Auditorium tonight in an event sponsored by the GW College Democrats.
Disagreeing with the sentiment that young people are lazy and apathetic, his speech largely focused on the role of young people, and the importance of message and strategy in mobilizing support in a campaign.
"Your generation sees the world as a community," he said. "You have the talent, drive, and creativity."
Plouffe, ran his first Congressional, Senate, and Presidential campaigns at ages 24, 28, and 41 respectively. He used his success at such a young age to encourage the students in attendance to get involved.
"We need your leadership now," Plouffe said. "You can't wait until you're 30. Take the reigns now. We got big issues in front of us. You can't assume that my generation will handle things properly."
Plouffe said that of the approximately 6,000 staff members on the payroll during Barack Obama's 2008 Presidential campaign, some 5,000 were under age 25.
Beginnings: GW Social Enterprise Forum
by Jenn Neuner
A new student organization is promoting the idea of social enterprise to create positive social change.
It's called the GW Social Enterprise Forum and according to the group's founding members, Cristina Roman and Grant Trudor, the club aims to use "innovative, new business-oriented ideas to make positive social changes." Rather than simply lecturing to interested members, the founders hope to engage directly with outside organizations in the business of social enterprise.
To do this, Roman and Trudor plan to bring social enterprises to campus to speak to the community, as well as aiding students in networking with real social enterprises through internships and careers, volunteer experiences, and raising money to contribute to social enterprises worldwide.
The first official meeting went far in providing some initial organization and allowing for the formation of a recruitment committee. Roman and Trudor hope that the club will ultimately provide an opportunity for students interested in the social change that social enterprise, unlike traditional non-profits, can provide.
For more information: http://gwsef.wordpress.com/about-us/
A new student organization is promoting the idea of social enterprise to create positive social change.
It's called the GW Social Enterprise Forum and according to the group's founding members, Cristina Roman and Grant Trudor, the club aims to use "innovative, new business-oriented ideas to make positive social changes." Rather than simply lecturing to interested members, the founders hope to engage directly with outside organizations in the business of social enterprise.
To do this, Roman and Trudor plan to bring social enterprises to campus to speak to the community, as well as aiding students in networking with real social enterprises through internships and careers, volunteer experiences, and raising money to contribute to social enterprises worldwide.
The first official meeting went far in providing some initial organization and allowing for the formation of a recruitment committee. Roman and Trudor hope that the club will ultimately provide an opportunity for students interested in the social change that social enterprise, unlike traditional non-profits, can provide.
For more information: http://gwsef.wordpress.com/about-us/
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Program Board Announces Maroon 5 Concert
By Zahin Hasan
In an email sent to those signed up for the PB Happenings mailing list, Program Board announced their upcoming fall concert at the Smith Center on Friday, November 13th: Maroon 5 and special guest K'Naan. The event is to be the largest concert held at GW since spring's Jason Mraz/Ben Folds concert, which was co-sponsored by WRGW. Like the Mraz/Folds concert, tickets are GWorld+5, meaning those with GWorld can purchase a ticket for his/herself, and for 5 others. Ticket sales will open beginning Friday, September 25th at 10 am, and will cost $30 for students, and $33 for faculty, staff, and alumni.
Descriptions of the two acts were provided in the email sent by Program Board: "A mix of polished pop, rock and neo-soul appeal has made Maroon 5 one of the most popular bands of this decade. Songs such as "This Love," "She Will Be Loved," and "Makes Me Wonder" all topped music charts worldwide, and have propelled the group to selling more than 10 million albums.Maroon 5 has been together since 2002 and has recorded other great hits such as "Harder to Breath," "Wake Up Call," and "Sunday Morning." In 2005, the group won a Grammy for Best New Artist, and by 2007, they completed an American tour withThe Hives and continue on a world tour with New Found Glory.
K'Naan brings an enormous dose of realness and urgency to the hip-hop world in a time when people are desperate for it. From a personal and cultural history rooted in poetry (being the grandson of one of Somalia's most famous poets ), K'Naan widens the traditional hip hop perspective. In 2002 while recording a verse for a War Child benefit track entitled "Keep the Beat" K'Naan's unique flow caught the attention of artist/producer Jarvis Church, one half of the Grammy award winning production team Track and Field (Nelly Furtado). From there began a creative partnership that would lead to the creation of K'Naan's first full length album The Dusty Foot Philosopher."
In an email sent to those signed up for the PB Happenings mailing list, Program Board announced their upcoming fall concert at the Smith Center on Friday, November 13th: Maroon 5 and special guest K'Naan. The event is to be the largest concert held at GW since spring's Jason Mraz/Ben Folds concert, which was co-sponsored by WRGW. Like the Mraz/Folds concert, tickets are GWorld+5, meaning those with GWorld can purchase a ticket for his/herself, and for 5 others. Ticket sales will open beginning Friday, September 25th at 10 am, and will cost $30 for students, and $33 for faculty, staff, and alumni.
Descriptions of the two acts were provided in the email sent by Program Board: "A mix of polished pop, rock and neo-soul appeal has made Maroon 5 one of the most popular bands of this decade. Songs such as "This Love," "She Will Be Loved," and "Makes Me Wonder" all topped music charts worldwide, and have propelled the group to selling more than 10 million albums.Maroon 5 has been together since 2002 and has recorded other great hits such as "Harder to Breath," "Wake Up Call," and "Sunday Morning." In 2005, the group won a Grammy for Best New Artist, and by 2007, they completed an American tour withThe Hives and continue on a world tour with New Found Glory.
K'Naan brings an enormous dose of realness and urgency to the hip-hop world in a time when people are desperate for it. From a personal and cultural history rooted in poetry (being the grandson of one of Somalia's most famous poets ), K'Naan widens the traditional hip hop perspective. In 2002 while recording a verse for a War Child benefit track entitled "Keep the Beat" K'Naan's unique flow caught the attention of artist/producer Jarvis Church, one half of the Grammy award winning production team Track and Field (Nelly Furtado). From there began a creative partnership that would lead to the creation of K'Naan's first full length album The Dusty Foot Philosopher."
It's "Official": Kathy Griffin's Memoir a D-List Dream Come True
By Alex Laska
You think you know Kathy Griffin.
You think you know her, because you’ve watched her multi-Emmy-winning show, “My Life on the D-List.” Because you’ve seen any of her numerous HBO Specials, such as “Kathy Griffin Is… Not Nicole Kidman.” Because you’ve listened to her Grammy-nominated cd, “For Your Consideration,” and laughed out loud. Or maybe just because, let’s face it, you secretly thought it was kind of funny when she told Jesus to suck it.
But as it turns out, you don’t know Kathy Griffin at all, not until you read her new book, “For Your Consideration: A Memoir According to Kathy Griffin.” A mouth-watering 350 pages in length, Ms. Griffin’s memoir explores aspects of her life you’d never even realized existed. From her dysfunctional family life in Oak Park, Illinois, to her days of getting bullied by the other students AND the nuns throughout Catholic school, to the interminable months she spent clawing her way to the top of the talent heap at the Groundlings, Kathy shows us what her life was like before the Bravo series, before the Emmy wins, and before all the fame. Hollywood’s Public Enemy Number One gives us a never-before-seen insight into her early life, showing us the framework for what would become a successful, if not notorious, career bringing down the A-Listers for fun and profit.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
College Republicans: "We Are the Foot Soldiers of the Republican Party"
By Alex Laska
The GW College Republicans are gearing up for a busy semester, with two gubernatorial elections coming up this November in Virginia and New Jersey.
Andrew Clark, Communications Director for the CR’s, said that the organization is, “leading campaign trips into Northern Virginia every weekend to volunteer for [candidate Bob McDonnell]. We are also getting involved with the RNC’s deployment in the days before Election Day. We are hosting a campaign trip to New Jersey in October to work for [Republican candidate] Chris Christie.”
Clark said that the CR’s will be promoting, “limited government, consumer-oriented answers instead of government-oriented answers to America’s problems, a strong and assertive foreign policy, and upholding a national culture that respects life.”
“We bring these values to campus and actively promote them,” said Clark. “We are the foot soldiers of the Republican Party, volunteering for campaigns, holding debates on campus, and pursuing a conservative agenda.”
The GW College Republicans are gearing up for a busy semester, with two gubernatorial elections coming up this November in Virginia and New Jersey.
Andrew Clark, Communications Director for the CR’s, said that the organization is, “leading campaign trips into Northern Virginia every weekend to volunteer for [candidate Bob McDonnell]. We are also getting involved with the RNC’s deployment in the days before Election Day. We are hosting a campaign trip to New Jersey in October to work for [Republican candidate] Chris Christie.”
Clark said that the CR’s will be promoting, “limited government, consumer-oriented answers instead of government-oriented answers to America’s problems, a strong and assertive foreign policy, and upholding a national culture that respects life.”
“We bring these values to campus and actively promote them,” said Clark. “We are the foot soldiers of the Republican Party, volunteering for campaigns, holding debates on campus, and pursuing a conservative agenda.”
Friday, September 18, 2009
DC Sports Round-Up 9/18/2009
By Joe Lewis
In baseball, the Washington Nationals beat the Marlins last Friday in Florida, 5-3. The Marlins won Saturday’s game 3-11, but the Nats bounced back on Sunday to win the final game of the series 7-2.
The Nats had Monday off before traveling to Philadelphia for another three game series. The Phillies shut out Washington on Tuesday, winning 5-0.
The Nats managed one run in Wednesday’s 1-6 loss. The road trip ended with a 2-4 loss. The National’s season record is now 50 and 96. With only 12 games left in the season, the team could finish with the worst record in franchise history.
In tennis, 20-year-old Juan Martin del Potro of Argentina beat Roger Federer to become the men’s single champion at the US Open.
Coming into the match, Federer had won 40 consecutive matches and was on the verge of a sixth consecutive US Open title. .
Kim Clijsters from Belgium defeated Caroline Wozniacki from Denmark to take the women’s tittle. Clijsters was playing in her third tournament after more than two years in retirement.
The U.S. Open has set an attendance record with 721,059 spectators.
In Women’s Basketball, the Washington Mystics lost the first game of the Conference Semi-finals last night against Indiana. The final score was 88 to 79. Game two will be tomorrow night. Tip off is at 7 pm.
Capitals defenseman Brian Pothier scored the game winning goal just 49 seconds into the over time while Washington had a two-man power play advantage. The Caps play again tomorrow night in Chicago to face the Blackhawks. The puck drops at 8:30 pm.
Finally, in Football, the Washington Redskins lost their season opener against the New York Giants, 17 to 23. Jason Campbell had a respectable showing, completing 19 of 26 passes for 211 yards and one touchdown.
The Redskins play their first game this season at home this Sunday against the St. Louis Rams. Kick-off is at 1 pm.
Despite their game-time struggles, Washington’s football franchise might be up for an even bigger battle off the field. Suzan Harjo, a 64-year-old American Indian writer, along with six other prominent American Indians and their legal are petitioning the Supreme Court this week to rule on whether the team name “Redskins” is too offensive to merit trademark.
Harjo first filed a legal challenge to the team name 17 years ago. In 1970, over 3,000 mascots nationwide referenced Native Americans. Today, that figure is below 1,000. Should Harjo and her team succeed, millions of dollars in Redskins’ merchandise, paraphernalia, and naming right will be at stake.
In baseball, the Washington Nationals beat the Marlins last Friday in Florida, 5-3. The Marlins won Saturday’s game 3-11, but the Nats bounced back on Sunday to win the final game of the series 7-2.
The Nats had Monday off before traveling to Philadelphia for another three game series. The Phillies shut out Washington on Tuesday, winning 5-0.
The Nats managed one run in Wednesday’s 1-6 loss. The road trip ended with a 2-4 loss. The National’s season record is now 50 and 96. With only 12 games left in the season, the team could finish with the worst record in franchise history.
In tennis, 20-year-old Juan Martin del Potro of Argentina beat Roger Federer to become the men’s single champion at the US Open.
Coming into the match, Federer had won 40 consecutive matches and was on the verge of a sixth consecutive US Open title. .
Kim Clijsters from Belgium defeated Caroline Wozniacki from Denmark to take the women’s tittle. Clijsters was playing in her third tournament after more than two years in retirement.
The U.S. Open has set an attendance record with 721,059 spectators.
In Women’s Basketball, the Washington Mystics lost the first game of the Conference Semi-finals last night against Indiana. The final score was 88 to 79. Game two will be tomorrow night. Tip off is at 7 pm.
In Hockey, the Washington Capitals secured an overtime victory in their first pre-season game at Buffalo last night. Final score was 4 to 3.
Capitals defenseman Brian Pothier scored the game winning goal just 49 seconds into the over time while Washington had a two-man power play advantage. The Caps play again tomorrow night in Chicago to face the Blackhawks. The puck drops at 8:30 pm.
Finally, in Football, the Washington Redskins lost their season opener against the New York Giants, 17 to 23. Jason Campbell had a respectable showing, completing 19 of 26 passes for 211 yards and one touchdown.
The Redskins play their first game this season at home this Sunday against the St. Louis Rams. Kick-off is at 1 pm.
Despite their game-time struggles, Washington’s football franchise might be up for an even bigger battle off the field. Suzan Harjo, a 64-year-old American Indian writer, along with six other prominent American Indians and their legal are petitioning the Supreme Court this week to rule on whether the team name “Redskins” is too offensive to merit trademark.
Harjo first filed a legal challenge to the team name 17 years ago. In 1970, over 3,000 mascots nationwide referenced Native Americans. Today, that figure is below 1,000. Should Harjo and her team succeed, millions of dollars in Redskins’ merchandise, paraphernalia, and naming right will be at stake.
DC Sports Round-Up 9/11/2009
By Joe Lewis
In Baseball, the Washington Nationals avoided being swept in their three game series against the Phillies with an 8 to 7 victory in Philadelphia last night. The win brings the National’s season record to 48 and 92, which places them in dead last for all of Major League Baseball.
The Nats will be in Florida for the next three days to face the Marlins. Tonight’s game begins at 7:10 pm.
In Hockey, the Washington Capitals’ rookie prospects are taking their first trip for some live game action.
Bruce Boudreau will be leading an abridged roster of a dozen forwards, six defenseman, and two goalies to Philadelphia tomorrow to scrimmage against the Flyers’ rookie team. The game will be streamed live on-line at WashingtonCaps.com
Members of the 2009 Stanley Cup Champion Pittsburg Penguins were invited to the White House yesterday.
The team received a guided tour of the building before going to a press conference in the East Room hosted by President Barack Obama. The Penguins presented Obama with a black No. 44 Penguins jersey with the captain’s “C” stitched on it. Obama held the Stanley Cup as he posed with the team for pictures.
In Football, the Washington Redskins open their season on Sunday in the Meadowlands to face the New York Giants.
The Redskins finished the preseason with an underwhelming 1 and 3 record. The Giants have won seven of the last 10 meetings against Washington. With the Giants moving to a new facility next season, Sunday will be the last time the Redskins ever play at the original Giants Stadium. Kick off is at 4:15 pm.
Fmr. Harvard Business Review Editor to Speak at GW
Rosabeth Moss Kanter, who is the Ernest L. Arbuckle Professor of Business Administration at Harvard Business School will speak on campus.
Kanter edited the Harvard Business Review from 1989-1992 and has been named by the Times of London as one of the “50 most powerful women in the world.”
The lecture is an installment of the Howard Hoffman Distinguished Lecture Series, which is sponsored by GW's school of business.
The event will take place Wednesday, September 23 at 6:15 p.m in Funger Hall, Room 103.
This event is free and open to the public. Register HERE
The first 150 people to arrive will receive a complimentary copy of Kanter’s book Super Corp: How Vanguard Companies Create Innovation, Profits, Growth, and Social Health.
Kanter edited the Harvard Business Review from 1989-1992 and has been named by the Times of London as one of the “50 most powerful women in the world.”
The lecture is an installment of the Howard Hoffman Distinguished Lecture Series, which is sponsored by GW's school of business.
The event will take place Wednesday, September 23 at 6:15 p.m in Funger Hall, Room 103.
This event is free and open to the public. Register HERE
The first 150 people to arrive will receive a complimentary copy of Kanter’s book Super Corp: How Vanguard Companies Create Innovation, Profits, Growth, and Social Health.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
President Obama Urges Youth to Support Health Care Reform
By Alex Laska
President Barack Obama delivered a speech today to students at The University Maryland College Park to address health care reform and to urge America’s youth to support his plans.
The speech came just days after Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D-MT) released the draft of his healthcare bill, which has been received tepidly by Republicans and Democrats alike.
“I promised to be a President who didn’t just clear up yesterday’s crises; I didn’t want to be a President who was just content with standing still,” the President told students crammed into the basketball arena at the University of Maryland.
“I promised to be a President who would build a better future; who would move this nation forward; who would ensure that this generation – your generation – had the same chances and the same opportunities that our parents gave us.”
Obama outlined his plans for health care reform, but added that, “Health care is about more than the details of a policy. It’s about what kind of country you want to be.”
Alluding to the healthcare plans of other industralized nations Obama said, “We are the only nation on Earth that leaves millions of people without health insurance,” Obama said.
“We spend more than any country on Earth, and we’re not any healthier for it. So this is about what kind of country you want your children to grow up in.”
Today’s speech was only one of a series of speeches he’s been giving across the country to rally support for health care reform. He has also addressed large audiences in Minneapolis and Pittsburgh but it was the first one during which he was heckled: while telling the audience stories about people who had gone through health care-related nightmares, one man stood up and shouted that Obama’s healthcare “Kills children!” through abortion. The people around him booed, and eventually the person causing the disturbance was escorted out by security to cheers from the audience.
Obama has been looking for support from key demographics that rallied for him during the campaign, including labor union members, middle class workers, and now young Americans.
President Barack Obama delivered a speech today to students at The University Maryland College Park to address health care reform and to urge America’s youth to support his plans.
The speech came just days after Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D-MT) released the draft of his healthcare bill, which has been received tepidly by Republicans and Democrats alike.
“I promised to be a President who didn’t just clear up yesterday’s crises; I didn’t want to be a President who was just content with standing still,” the President told students crammed into the basketball arena at the University of Maryland.
“I promised to be a President who would build a better future; who would move this nation forward; who would ensure that this generation – your generation – had the same chances and the same opportunities that our parents gave us.”
Obama outlined his plans for health care reform, but added that, “Health care is about more than the details of a policy. It’s about what kind of country you want to be.”
Alluding to the healthcare plans of other industralized nations Obama said, “We are the only nation on Earth that leaves millions of people without health insurance,” Obama said.
“We spend more than any country on Earth, and we’re not any healthier for it. So this is about what kind of country you want your children to grow up in.”
Today’s speech was only one of a series of speeches he’s been giving across the country to rally support for health care reform. He has also addressed large audiences in Minneapolis and Pittsburgh but it was the first one during which he was heckled: while telling the audience stories about people who had gone through health care-related nightmares, one man stood up and shouted that Obama’s healthcare “Kills children!” through abortion. The people around him booed, and eventually the person causing the disturbance was escorted out by security to cheers from the audience.
Obama has been looking for support from key demographics that rallied for him during the campaign, including labor union members, middle class workers, and now young Americans.
mtvU: WRGW a top 50 college station
mtvU recognizes WRGW Radio as one of the top 50 college radio stations in the country.
The honor puts the station in contention for the College Radio Woodie Award, which recognizes outstanding programming.
Help WRGW get to the next round. The top 25 will be announced September 29th. CLICK HERE to go to the site and vote for WRGW...the very best in college radio.
- Jesse Regis
The honor puts the station in contention for the College Radio Woodie Award, which recognizes outstanding programming.
Help WRGW get to the next round. The top 25 will be announced September 29th. CLICK HERE to go to the site and vote for WRGW...the very best in college radio.
- Jesse Regis
Fmr. VP Cheney at GW Hospital
Former Vice President Dick Cheney was admitted to the GW Hospital for spinal surgery, the Washington Times reports.
Mr. Cheney, 68, reportedly has a condition called lumbar spinal stenosis, a condition that causes pain in the back, buttocks, thighs, and calves. The surgery will relieve pressure on the nerves that are causing the pain.
Cheney was frequently admitted to the hospital during his eight years as Vice President, mostly for issues involving his heart.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Zune HD vs. iPod Touch, which is better?
By Dan Keylin
Take a short walk around campus and one thing you'll notice is that everyone is holding either a iPhone or iPod. Apple is the king of MP3 players, and Microsoft is looking to change that.
The Zune HD was released today to a moderate level of fanfare, and I decided to get one. I've also been a proud owner of an iPod touch, so I'llcompare and contrast the two devices:
[caption id="attachment_2466" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="The Zune HD is one slick device."]
[/caption]
The first thing you'll notice is that the Zune HD is smaller than the iPod touch, and about a hair thicker, but it also weighs only about half as much, and feels very well-built. The OLED screen is stunning, and comparing a Zune HD and iPod touch side by side, you can tell the Zune HD has far better color contrast; the blacks on the Zune HD look deep black, while the blacks on the iPod Touch look dark gray and washed out.
The user interface on the Zune HD is also amazing. The touch screen is just as responsive as the iPod touch, and menus have really smooth animations.
When you play a song, a background is a picture of the artist, and album art is in the middle of the screen. If you are playing a song by a popular artist, there will actually be pictures and biographies of that artist that you can see as you play the song. It's a great touch, and makes the now three year old iPod touch interface look dull in comparison.
Watching videos on the screen look great (although contrary to the name, the screen resolution is NOT high-defintion). The picture viewing is basically the same as the iPod touch, including multi-touch so you can zoom in and out by pinching your fingers. It seems the multi-touch on the Zune HD works just as good as multi-touch on the iPod touch, which was a pleasant surprise.
While the Zune HD no doubt beats the iPod touch in regards to screen quality and user interface, it also has several shortcomings.
For one, there is no massive application store for the Zune HD, at least not yet. Microsoft is trying to have iPhone app developers port their applications to the Zune HD, but they aren't in the Zune marketplace yet, although there should be a somewhat expansive app library for the Zune HD by the holiday season.
Microsoft is going to have a lot of trouble catching up to Apple's App Store, so if applications are a deal breaker to you, the Zune HD may not be the device for you right now.
The iPod touch's internet browser, Safari, is also superior to the Zune's updated version of internet explorer, which froze several times on me.
[caption id="attachment_2465" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Comparing (from left to right) iPhone, Zune HD, iPod touch."]
[/caption]
Perhaps most important is that the Zune HD only works with a windows computer, so all those Mac users will have to use bootcamp or another program to run windows on their Macbook. If you have a windows computer, Zune Software (Zune's version of iTunes) is really nice, and a new change of pace from iTunes. Both iTunes and Zune Software have their strengths and weaknesses, with iTunes having a simpler UI with more in depth options, while Zune Software was a much better album artwork matcher (it got pictures for about 90% of my library compared to iTunes which only got about 60%).
Overall, both devices are on an even level. The screen and user interface on the Zune HD are truly amazing, but it falters when it comes to its internet browser, lack of applications, and support for Macs.
If you have a Mac and don't know how to run Windows on it, you should probably stick with your iPod. If you have a Windows computer the Zune HD is a bit more compelling option at this point if applications aren't a necessity for you. Either way, you really can't go wrong.
Take a short walk around campus and one thing you'll notice is that everyone is holding either a iPhone or iPod. Apple is the king of MP3 players, and Microsoft is looking to change that.
The Zune HD was released today to a moderate level of fanfare, and I decided to get one. I've also been a proud owner of an iPod touch, so I'llcompare and contrast the two devices:
[caption id="attachment_2466" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="The Zune HD is one slick device."]
[/caption]The first thing you'll notice is that the Zune HD is smaller than the iPod touch, and about a hair thicker, but it also weighs only about half as much, and feels very well-built. The OLED screen is stunning, and comparing a Zune HD and iPod touch side by side, you can tell the Zune HD has far better color contrast; the blacks on the Zune HD look deep black, while the blacks on the iPod Touch look dark gray and washed out.
The user interface on the Zune HD is also amazing. The touch screen is just as responsive as the iPod touch, and menus have really smooth animations.
When you play a song, a background is a picture of the artist, and album art is in the middle of the screen. If you are playing a song by a popular artist, there will actually be pictures and biographies of that artist that you can see as you play the song. It's a great touch, and makes the now three year old iPod touch interface look dull in comparison.
"Contrary to the name, the screen resolution is NOT high-defintion."
Watching videos on the screen look great (although contrary to the name, the screen resolution is NOT high-defintion). The picture viewing is basically the same as the iPod touch, including multi-touch so you can zoom in and out by pinching your fingers. It seems the multi-touch on the Zune HD works just as good as multi-touch on the iPod touch, which was a pleasant surprise.
While the Zune HD no doubt beats the iPod touch in regards to screen quality and user interface, it also has several shortcomings.
For one, there is no massive application store for the Zune HD, at least not yet. Microsoft is trying to have iPhone app developers port their applications to the Zune HD, but they aren't in the Zune marketplace yet, although there should be a somewhat expansive app library for the Zune HD by the holiday season.
Microsoft is going to have a lot of trouble catching up to Apple's App Store, so if applications are a deal breaker to you, the Zune HD may not be the device for you right now.
The iPod touch's internet browser, Safari, is also superior to the Zune's updated version of internet explorer, which froze several times on me.
[caption id="attachment_2465" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Comparing (from left to right) iPhone, Zune HD, iPod touch."]
[/caption]Perhaps most important is that the Zune HD only works with a windows computer, so all those Mac users will have to use bootcamp or another program to run windows on their Macbook. If you have a windows computer, Zune Software (Zune's version of iTunes) is really nice, and a new change of pace from iTunes. Both iTunes and Zune Software have their strengths and weaknesses, with iTunes having a simpler UI with more in depth options, while Zune Software was a much better album artwork matcher (it got pictures for about 90% of my library compared to iTunes which only got about 60%).
Overall, both devices are on an even level. The screen and user interface on the Zune HD are truly amazing, but it falters when it comes to its internet browser, lack of applications, and support for Macs.
If you have a Mac and don't know how to run Windows on it, you should probably stick with your iPod. If you have a Windows computer the Zune HD is a bit more compelling option at this point if applications aren't a necessity for you. Either way, you really can't go wrong.
Obama to push health care message at area college
President Obama will take his health care reform message to the University of Maryland College Park this Thursday September 17. He will speak at the school's Comcast Center on Terrapin Trail.
The event is free and open to the public. Doors open at 9am, the program starts at 11am. UMD is accessible by Metro rail.
You can RSVP at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/the_press_office/MediaRSVP-MarylandRally9-17-09
The event is free and open to the public. Doors open at 9am, the program starts at 11am. UMD is accessible by Metro rail.
You can RSVP at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/the_press_office/MediaRSVP-MarylandRally9-17-09
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Second season of News in Depth kicks off
On Sunday, Jared and Jesse returned to the air with a brand new season of News in Depth!
The second season kicked off with plenty of insight and political analysis of the 9/12/09 Tea Party protests in Washington, DC. 60 to 70,000 taxpayers from around that nation railed against President Obama's proposed health care reform and "big government."
At the bottom of the hour, Barun Aryal, a GW senior and Alternative Spring Break G-Board member, joined Pliner and Regis in studio to discuss the September 11th Freshman Day of Service, First Lady Michelle Obama's GW commmunity service challenge, and the alternative break program, which sends hundreds of GW students across the country and around the world service projects.
It was a high-energy, action-packed hour filled with angry tirades, witty banter, and everything YOU need to know about this week at GW!
Listen to the show here: News in Depth: September 13, 2009
The second season kicked off with plenty of insight and political analysis of the 9/12/09 Tea Party protests in Washington, DC. 60 to 70,000 taxpayers from around that nation railed against President Obama's proposed health care reform and "big government."
At the bottom of the hour, Barun Aryal, a GW senior and Alternative Spring Break G-Board member, joined Pliner and Regis in studio to discuss the September 11th Freshman Day of Service, First Lady Michelle Obama's GW commmunity service challenge, and the alternative break program, which sends hundreds of GW students across the country and around the world service projects.
It was a high-energy, action-packed hour filled with angry tirades, witty banter, and everything YOU need to know about this week at GW!
Listen to the show here: News in Depth: September 13, 2009
Community service dominates first weeks of class
GW Senior and Alternative Breaks G-Board member Barun Aryal joined Jared Pliner and Jesse Regis on Sunday's edition of News in Depth.
His appearance comes after the involvement of hundreds in the first annual Freshman Day of Communtiy Service, a promise by First Lady Michelle Obama to speak at graduation pending the completion of 100,000 service hours, and the application deadline for the alternative spring break program.
He talks about the events, his thoughts on the First Lady's challenge, and how you can get involved with community service.
Listen to the interview here:
Barun Aryal talks about GW's push for service on News in Depth
His appearance comes after the involvement of hundreds in the first annual Freshman Day of Communtiy Service, a promise by First Lady Michelle Obama to speak at graduation pending the completion of 100,000 service hours, and the application deadline for the alternative spring break program.
He talks about the events, his thoughts on the First Lady's challenge, and how you can get involved with community service.
Listen to the interview here:
Barun Aryal talks about GW's push for service on News in Depth
Saturday, September 12, 2009
100,000 Hours for First Lady
GW President Steven Knapp announced at the Freshman Day of Service that First Lady Michelle Obama will speak at this year's commencement if GW completes 100,000 hours of community service.
The challenge came in response to a letter written to the First Lady by Student Association President Julie Bindleglass and Executive Vice President Jason Lifton.
The community completed about 61,000 hours of community service last year, according to GW's Office of Community Service.
The challenge came in response to a letter written to the First Lady by Student Association President Julie Bindleglass and Executive Vice President Jason Lifton.
The community completed about 61,000 hours of community service last year, according to GW's Office of Community Service.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
SA Town Hall Meeting Live Blog - TONIGHT - 9/10/09
Jared Pliner and Dan Keylin will be covering tonight's SA town hall meeting at 7:00 pm.
Read and participate by clicking HERE
Read and participate by clicking HERE
Secretaries Clinton and Gates to speak on campus
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Defense Secretary Robert Gates will join School of Media and Public Affairs Professor Frank Sesno October 6th at Lisner Auditorium. We'll keep you updated as details become available.
Sen. John Kerry at the Jack Morton Auditorium: "This is our August memo."
Senator John Kerry (D-MA) urged Americans to take steps to combat climate change in a speech today at the Jack Morton Auditorium.
The event, “The Day Before: National Security Implications of Climate Change" brought together experts in the field of environmental science and national security to discuss the implications of not taking immediate action to curb the changing climate.
Kerry arrived on stage with the aid of a cane, the result of some recent hip surgery. But his staggered walk belied the tone of his words, ranging from almost lecturing the audience to strongly condemning opponents of legislation to stop climate change. Throughout his speech, Kerry aligned the forewarnings about climate change with those about terrorism prior to the events of September 11th, 2001, although he stated that the two were “incomparable.”
Much of Kerry’s remarks consisted of statistics from around the world, highlighting how climate change has worsened conditions worldwide.
From health to economics to regional conflicts, he stated that climate change has affected everyone, and that it is through legislation to stop climate change that we can reduce disease, fix the economy, and alleviate national security concerns.
His anecdotes were punctuated by moments both of solemnity and levity. While explaining the struggles of Alaskans who have had to relocate their homes due to changed environmental conditions, Kerry’s remark that they could “no longer see Russia from their front porch” drew laughter from a crowd well-versed in the statements of former Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin of Alaska. A reference to the recent healthcare “demagoguery” also elicited some laughs.
Kerry’s conclusion returned to a more serious tone in declaring the urgency of the conjoined issue of national security and climate change. He referenced the memo received by former President George W. Bush 36 days before 9/11, and the fact that the events of that day were not prevented despite Bush’s receipt of that information. Of today’s conference and its message of ending climate change, Kerry stated, “This is our August memo.”
The also event featured experts in environmental policy and national security, as well as retired US Air Force General Lester Lyles and the former Director of Central Intelligence R. James Woolsey.
The event, “The Day Before: National Security Implications of Climate Change" brought together experts in the field of environmental science and national security to discuss the implications of not taking immediate action to curb the changing climate.
Kerry arrived on stage with the aid of a cane, the result of some recent hip surgery. But his staggered walk belied the tone of his words, ranging from almost lecturing the audience to strongly condemning opponents of legislation to stop climate change. Throughout his speech, Kerry aligned the forewarnings about climate change with those about terrorism prior to the events of September 11th, 2001, although he stated that the two were “incomparable.”
Much of Kerry’s remarks consisted of statistics from around the world, highlighting how climate change has worsened conditions worldwide.
From health to economics to regional conflicts, he stated that climate change has affected everyone, and that it is through legislation to stop climate change that we can reduce disease, fix the economy, and alleviate national security concerns.
His anecdotes were punctuated by moments both of solemnity and levity. While explaining the struggles of Alaskans who have had to relocate their homes due to changed environmental conditions, Kerry’s remark that they could “no longer see Russia from their front porch” drew laughter from a crowd well-versed in the statements of former Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin of Alaska. A reference to the recent healthcare “demagoguery” also elicited some laughs.
Kerry’s conclusion returned to a more serious tone in declaring the urgency of the conjoined issue of national security and climate change. He referenced the memo received by former President George W. Bush 36 days before 9/11, and the fact that the events of that day were not prevented despite Bush’s receipt of that information. Of today’s conference and its message of ending climate change, Kerry stated, “This is our August memo.”
The also event featured experts in environmental policy and national security, as well as retired US Air Force General Lester Lyles and the former Director of Central Intelligence R. James Woolsey.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Live Blog Coverage of Today's SA Town Hall
Dan Keylin and Jared Pliner will be live blogging today's SA town hall meeting being held in Monroe Hall at 7:00 pm.
The town hall will address potential changes in the Student Association Constitution the SA is considering.
Be sure to watch and contribute to the live blog.
We'll have a live link to the blog a few hours before 7 pm.
The town hall will address potential changes in the Student Association Constitution the SA is considering.
Be sure to watch and contribute to the live blog.
We'll have a live link to the blog a few hours before 7 pm.
US Open Preview
Tennis is well underway at the US Open in New York. On the men’s side there have been no major surprises, with all top five players moving forward. Switzerland’s Roger Federer (1) has easily made it into the third round by defeating Germany’s Simon Gruel on Wednesday night (6-3, 7-5, 7-5). Federer will play Australian Lleyton Hewitt (31) on Saturday. On Thursday, Novak Djokovic (4) had no difficulties winning over Carsten Bell (6-3, 6-4, 6-4). Djokovic’s third round match will be played on Saturday against American Jesse Witten. Andy Roddick (5) beat France’s Marc Gicquel in three sets on Thursday night (6-1, 6-4, 6-4). He will have to face American John Isner on Saturday. Both Spain’s Rafael Nadal (3) and Great Britain’s Andy Murray (2) will be playing their second round matches on Friday. Nadal defeated Richard Gasquet of France on Tuesday (6-2, 6-2, 6-3). He will be facing Nicolas Kiefer on Friday night. On Tuesday, Murray was successful against Ernests Gulbis (7-5, 6-3, 7-5). Murray will play against Paul Capdeville on Friday afternoon.
The woman’s side has been much less predictable. Top seeded female, Dinara Safina has made it into the third round, but it took her three sets to win each match. Her most recent match was against Kristina Barrios (5-7, 6-2, 6-3). She will play on Saturday against Petra Kvitova. Neither Williams sisters have had any problems in the tournament. Venus Williams (3) beat Bethanie Mattek-Sands (6-4, 6-2) on Wednesday. Melinda Czink lost to Serena Williams (6-1, 6-1) on Wednesday as well. Both Williams sisters will be playing their third round match on Friday. Serena will play Maria Jose Martinez-Sanchez and Venus will face Magdalena Rybarikova. Kim Clijsters has thus far had a successful comeback by advancing to the third round. Wednesday, Clijsters lost the first set to Marion Bartolia (14), but was able to recover by winning the next two (5-7, 6-1, 6-2). On Friday, Clijsters will play against a fellow Belgian, Kirsten Flipkens. Maria Sharapova (29) has also had a successful comeback; she easily defeated Christina McHale Thursday night in two sets (6-2, 6-1). She will play seventeen year old American, Melanie Oudin on Saturday. Oudin surprisingly knocked out number four seed Elena Dementieva on Thursday in three sets (5-7, 6-4, 3-6).
Stay tuned for more US Open updates.
-Roxanne Martin
The woman’s side has been much less predictable. Top seeded female, Dinara Safina has made it into the third round, but it took her three sets to win each match. Her most recent match was against Kristina Barrios (5-7, 6-2, 6-3). She will play on Saturday against Petra Kvitova. Neither Williams sisters have had any problems in the tournament. Venus Williams (3) beat Bethanie Mattek-Sands (6-4, 6-2) on Wednesday. Melinda Czink lost to Serena Williams (6-1, 6-1) on Wednesday as well. Both Williams sisters will be playing their third round match on Friday. Serena will play Maria Jose Martinez-Sanchez and Venus will face Magdalena Rybarikova. Kim Clijsters has thus far had a successful comeback by advancing to the third round. Wednesday, Clijsters lost the first set to Marion Bartolia (14), but was able to recover by winning the next two (5-7, 6-1, 6-2). On Friday, Clijsters will play against a fellow Belgian, Kirsten Flipkens. Maria Sharapova (29) has also had a successful comeback; she easily defeated Christina McHale Thursday night in two sets (6-2, 6-1). She will play seventeen year old American, Melanie Oudin on Saturday. Oudin surprisingly knocked out number four seed Elena Dementieva on Thursday in three sets (5-7, 6-4, 3-6).
Stay tuned for more US Open updates.
-Roxanne Martin
Possible Gas Leak On Campus
Alert DC is reporting that Fulbright Hall has been evacuated because of a possible gas leak H and I streets are closed between 22nd and23rd streets.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
CD President: We Cannot Let Victories Go to Waste
[caption id="attachment_2404" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Political Affairs Director Emma Carpenter tells CD members about the new Advocacy Team. Alex Laska / WRGW News"]
[/caption]
At the first general meeting of the College Democrats, CD President Peter Weiss spoke of the importance of advocacy and activism both on campus and off. He told a group of several hundred – a turnout greater than last year’s despite it not being an election year - that “our hope is that you have a hand in enacting pending national legislation.”
Referring to Democrat gains in Congress in both 2006 and 2008, as well as President Obama’s victory last November, Weiss said that “we cannot let those victories to go waste.” He introduced the new Advocacy Team, which will bring in professional lobbyists to train CD’s so that they can effectively lobby Congresspersons on Capitol Hill. Weiss called this new team “the most important initiative of the year.”
Another new program is the Campaign College, which will bring in specialists to train members to become “electioneers.” The Campaign College will offer courses in public speaking, youth outreach, and new technologies to help CD members become better canvassers and better campaign organizers.
Weiss also mentioned the upcoming gubernatorial elections in New Jersey and Virginia, as CD Executive Board members passed out Corzine and Deeds posters in support of Governor John Corzine’s reelection bid in New Jersey and Creigh Deed’s gubernatorial campaign in Virginia, respectively. “One of the most important things we can do as College Democrats is campaign for Democrats across the country,” said Weiss, adding that there will be “overnight invasions” in both New Jersey and Virginia to campaign for the two Democrat candidates.
The CD’s have many speakers slated to appear at GW this semester, including Obama’s campaign manager David Plouffe, former Vice President Walter Mondale, and former DNC Chairman Howard Dean.
On the lighter side of things, Weiss brought up some upcoming social events, including this Saturday’s water balloon fight against the College Republicans, and a future trip to Ben’s Chili Bowl, a known favorite of President Obama’s. “Ben’s has the best F-ing chili, I swear to God,” Weiss said. “Wherever Obama eats, we’re gonna go there.”
-Alex Laska
[/caption]At the first general meeting of the College Democrats, CD President Peter Weiss spoke of the importance of advocacy and activism both on campus and off. He told a group of several hundred – a turnout greater than last year’s despite it not being an election year - that “our hope is that you have a hand in enacting pending national legislation.”
Referring to Democrat gains in Congress in both 2006 and 2008, as well as President Obama’s victory last November, Weiss said that “we cannot let those victories to go waste.” He introduced the new Advocacy Team, which will bring in professional lobbyists to train CD’s so that they can effectively lobby Congresspersons on Capitol Hill. Weiss called this new team “the most important initiative of the year.”
Another new program is the Campaign College, which will bring in specialists to train members to become “electioneers.” The Campaign College will offer courses in public speaking, youth outreach, and new technologies to help CD members become better canvassers and better campaign organizers.
Weiss also mentioned the upcoming gubernatorial elections in New Jersey and Virginia, as CD Executive Board members passed out Corzine and Deeds posters in support of Governor John Corzine’s reelection bid in New Jersey and Creigh Deed’s gubernatorial campaign in Virginia, respectively. “One of the most important things we can do as College Democrats is campaign for Democrats across the country,” said Weiss, adding that there will be “overnight invasions” in both New Jersey and Virginia to campaign for the two Democrat candidates.
The CD’s have many speakers slated to appear at GW this semester, including Obama’s campaign manager David Plouffe, former Vice President Walter Mondale, and former DNC Chairman Howard Dean.
On the lighter side of things, Weiss brought up some upcoming social events, including this Saturday’s water balloon fight against the College Republicans, and a future trip to Ben’s Chili Bowl, a known favorite of President Obama’s. “Ben’s has the best F-ing chili, I swear to God,” Weiss said. “Wherever Obama eats, we’re gonna go there.”
-Alex Laska
SA MEETING LIVE BLOG TONIGHT
Follow and participate in tonight's WRGW's live blog hosted by Jesse Regis and Dan Keylin. The action starts at 8:45 pm.
Follow it HERE
Follow it HERE
New Dorm, South Hall, Now Housing Seniors
South Hall, the newest residence hall for GW Seniors at 2135 F Street, had a housewarming hosted by Campaign GW to allow GW students to tour the new dorm building. Construction for the building was initiated back in September of 2007 and finished this July. The building houses 474 seniors in apartment-style suites with single bedrooms. The building also contains classrooms and laboratory rooms for Schools Without Walls, a DC public high school that uses the “city as a classroom” to give students a more fulfilling education by integrating them with the GW community and DC as a whole.
South Hall was only one of many projects currently undertaken by Campaign GW. Another project is Square 54 on Pennsylvania Avenue, which the University is turning into a sort of urban town center, which will include, according to Campaign GW, “retail, residential, and office uses that would achieve shared benefits for the Community, the District, and the University.” This includes a proposed grocery store, shops, and office space. Tower cranes were installed over the summer, and work is now well underway on the below-ground parking garage. Square 54 is slated to be finished by Spring of 2011.
Construction is also continuing on Pelham Hall, a Mount Vernon Campus residence hall which was started back in Spring of 2008 and is expected to be ready for occupancy next fall. The structure’s skeleton is complete, according to an email sent out by Campaign GW, and work on the interior and exterior of the building is underway.
Pelham Hall is just one portion of the 2010 Mount Vernon Campus Plan, which is still in the early stages of development. GW is still figuring out what exactly the plan will include, but the goal is to expand and balance residence halls with academic buildings; rumor has it that there will also be a new blackbox theatre put in one of the new buildings.
Dylan Pyne, who is a co-coordinator for Campaign GW, says that “everything has gone according to plan.”
“Along with promoting the 2007 Foggy Bottom Campus Plan and gearing up for the 2010 Mount Vernon Campus Plan we have recently been helping out with Eco-Challenge, the Tree Watering Program and the Green Roof on 1957 & 1959 E Street,” said Pyne. “We are also always writing and brainstorming for our monthly email update.”
Pyne says that anyone interested in helping out with Campaign GW “can do so in a couple of ways. If they want a “no commitment” way to get involved they can just sign up for our monthly email update and receive information on development and sustainable initiatives on campus. If they want to get more hands-on they can come to one of our training sessions and be trained on the campus plans so they can go to tabling at a wide variety of events and educate and reach out to students, parents, alumni, faculty and staff. They can also volunteer to help garden the green roofs on E Street or help water the trees involved in our Tree Watering Program.”
For more information about Campaign GW and all of GW’s many construction projects, visit neighborhood.gwu.edu
-Alex Laska
South Hall was only one of many projects currently undertaken by Campaign GW. Another project is Square 54 on Pennsylvania Avenue, which the University is turning into a sort of urban town center, which will include, according to Campaign GW, “retail, residential, and office uses that would achieve shared benefits for the Community, the District, and the University.” This includes a proposed grocery store, shops, and office space. Tower cranes were installed over the summer, and work is now well underway on the below-ground parking garage. Square 54 is slated to be finished by Spring of 2011.
Construction is also continuing on Pelham Hall, a Mount Vernon Campus residence hall which was started back in Spring of 2008 and is expected to be ready for occupancy next fall. The structure’s skeleton is complete, according to an email sent out by Campaign GW, and work on the interior and exterior of the building is underway.
Pelham Hall is just one portion of the 2010 Mount Vernon Campus Plan, which is still in the early stages of development. GW is still figuring out what exactly the plan will include, but the goal is to expand and balance residence halls with academic buildings; rumor has it that there will also be a new blackbox theatre put in one of the new buildings.
Dylan Pyne, who is a co-coordinator for Campaign GW, says that “everything has gone according to plan.”
“Along with promoting the 2007 Foggy Bottom Campus Plan and gearing up for the 2010 Mount Vernon Campus Plan we have recently been helping out with Eco-Challenge, the Tree Watering Program and the Green Roof on 1957 & 1959 E Street,” said Pyne. “We are also always writing and brainstorming for our monthly email update.”
Pyne says that anyone interested in helping out with Campaign GW “can do so in a couple of ways. If they want a “no commitment” way to get involved they can just sign up for our monthly email update and receive information on development and sustainable initiatives on campus. If they want to get more hands-on they can come to one of our training sessions and be trained on the campus plans so they can go to tabling at a wide variety of events and educate and reach out to students, parents, alumni, faculty and staff. They can also volunteer to help garden the green roofs on E Street or help water the trees involved in our Tree Watering Program.”
For more information about Campaign GW and all of GW’s many construction projects, visit neighborhood.gwu.edu
-Alex Laska
Obama Delivers School Speech; To Address Congress on Wednesday
By Jared Pliner
WASHINGTON - It is shaping up to be a busy week for President Barack Obama, as he returns from his summer hiatus and goes back to work on healthcare reform. But before his primetime address to a joint session of Congress on Wednesday, he will speak to nearly 56 million school children across the nation Tuesday, a move that drew fiery controversy from Republicans last week. Some on the right accused the president of attempting to indoctrinate America's schoolchildren (a captive audience) with a partisan message, complete with propagandist undertones. As it turns out, the prepared remarks contain nothing more than the president's encouragement to work hard in school, aim for ones goals, and poignant anecdotes of underprivileged children who beat the odds.
Next on the dossier, the president will address members of the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives in the House chamber on Wednesday evening in a multi-network televised event. All eyes will be on the president as he is expected to vigorously push for reform that includes a public option and rally both Democrats and Republicans to undertake bipartisan efforts to push through legislation in a timely manner. The White House has said that Obama will specifically address the three most pressing questions on reform: how to pay for it, the effect on the mounting deficit and how it will impact health insurance. The president has already pledged not to sign anything that adds to the budget deficit, but many on the right - and even some on the left - are skeptical. Tune in at 8 p.m. Eastern/5 p.m. Pacific.
WASHINGTON - It is shaping up to be a busy week for President Barack Obama, as he returns from his summer hiatus and goes back to work on healthcare reform. But before his primetime address to a joint session of Congress on Wednesday, he will speak to nearly 56 million school children across the nation Tuesday, a move that drew fiery controversy from Republicans last week. Some on the right accused the president of attempting to indoctrinate America's schoolchildren (a captive audience) with a partisan message, complete with propagandist undertones. As it turns out, the prepared remarks contain nothing more than the president's encouragement to work hard in school, aim for ones goals, and poignant anecdotes of underprivileged children who beat the odds.
Next on the dossier, the president will address members of the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives in the House chamber on Wednesday evening in a multi-network televised event. All eyes will be on the president as he is expected to vigorously push for reform that includes a public option and rally both Democrats and Republicans to undertake bipartisan efforts to push through legislation in a timely manner. The White House has said that Obama will specifically address the three most pressing questions on reform: how to pay for it, the effect on the mounting deficit and how it will impact health insurance. The president has already pledged not to sign anything that adds to the budget deficit, but many on the right - and even some on the left - are skeptical. Tune in at 8 p.m. Eastern/5 p.m. Pacific.
Monday, September 7, 2009
SA Senate Meeting Live Blog - 9/8/09 Tuesday 9:00 pm
Jesse Regis and Dan Keylin will be live blogging the first SA Senate meeting of the year this Tuesday at 9:00 pm. Comments and participation are highly encouraged.
Here is the link to the live blog page: SA Senate Meeting Live Blog
Here is the link to the live blog page: SA Senate Meeting Live Blog
Sunday, September 6, 2009
BREAKING NEWS: Jesse Regis Calls Walk-Off Home Run, Nationals Beat Marlins 5-4
[caption id="attachment_2331" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Jesse Regis, reenacting his predicted Ryan Zimmerman home run shot to left field. "]
[/caption]
WASHINGTON - A casual trip to a Nationals game turned into a historical event created by one of WRGW's own. With the Nationals trailing 4-3 to the Florida Marlins in the bottom of the ninth inning and Nationals third baseman Ryan Zimmerman at bat, WRGW News Director Jesse Regis made a bold declaration: he pointed to the porch in left field and declared "he'll hit one out."
Amazingly, Zimmerman belted a 3-run home run two pitches later to win the game for the Nationals, 5-4. The few Nationals fans in attendance loudly cheered after the home run, and at Regis' prediction, as the team improved to a somewhat respectable 47-90, 31.5 games behind the NL East leading Philadelphia Phillies.
Regis was modest in a press release he emailed to several campus and city news outlets following his accurate prediction, simply stating "I called it. It's kind of a big deal." He went on to add "I knew my prediction would come true - it was just a matter of when." WRGW's own Jared Pliner also witnessed the home run prediction and was literally left speechless for several minutes after the game.
Regis viewed Nationals first base coach and former San Francisco Giants superstar Marquis Grissom talking to Zimmerman following a Zimmerman pop-out in the third inning. Grissom made motions which suggested he wanted Zimmerman to cease dropping his shoulder and to swing down on the ball, keeping his hand on top of the bat handle when he swung, according to Regis. Regis cites his astute observation as the main reasoning behind the bold and deadly psychic home run prediction.
Baseball fans will no doubt notice the resemblance to Babe Ruth's called home run shot to center field in the 1932 World Series. It still remains one of the most iconic moments in baseball history. "The Jesse Regis shot " will undoubtedly rank next to Ruth's, especially in Washington D.C. folklore.
Expect full coverage of the "Jesse Regis shot" next Sunday at 12pm on the yearly premiere of News In Depth, hosted by Jesse Regis and Jared Pliner.
[/caption]WASHINGTON - A casual trip to a Nationals game turned into a historical event created by one of WRGW's own. With the Nationals trailing 4-3 to the Florida Marlins in the bottom of the ninth inning and Nationals third baseman Ryan Zimmerman at bat, WRGW News Director Jesse Regis made a bold declaration: he pointed to the porch in left field and declared "he'll hit one out."
Amazingly, Zimmerman belted a 3-run home run two pitches later to win the game for the Nationals, 5-4. The few Nationals fans in attendance loudly cheered after the home run, and at Regis' prediction, as the team improved to a somewhat respectable 47-90, 31.5 games behind the NL East leading Philadelphia Phillies.
Regis was modest in a press release he emailed to several campus and city news outlets following his accurate prediction, simply stating "I called it. It's kind of a big deal." He went on to add "I knew my prediction would come true - it was just a matter of when." WRGW's own Jared Pliner also witnessed the home run prediction and was literally left speechless for several minutes after the game.
Regis viewed Nationals first base coach and former San Francisco Giants superstar Marquis Grissom talking to Zimmerman following a Zimmerman pop-out in the third inning. Grissom made motions which suggested he wanted Zimmerman to cease dropping his shoulder and to swing down on the ball, keeping his hand on top of the bat handle when he swung, according to Regis. Regis cites his astute observation as the main reasoning behind the bold and deadly psychic home run prediction.
Baseball fans will no doubt notice the resemblance to Babe Ruth's called home run shot to center field in the 1932 World Series. It still remains one of the most iconic moments in baseball history. "The Jesse Regis shot " will undoubtedly rank next to Ruth's, especially in Washington D.C. folklore.
Expect full coverage of the "Jesse Regis shot" next Sunday at 12pm on the yearly premiere of News In Depth, hosted by Jesse Regis and Jared Pliner.
Deported: Thoughts on Teaching English in Ethiopia
Commentary By Monika Wysocki
This summer I was illegally detained for 68 hours without my passport or cell phone, and then deported along with 5 other GWU students, after only 3 ½ weeks of what was supposed to be 6 weeks worth of teaching English in Ethiopia.
While it was happening, I was alternatively terrified for my life and amused by the theatrics of the Immigration Center officials, who seemed to be imitating their own vision of the ideal tough guy from a Hollywood crime blockbuster.
It was probably the most ridiculous thing I have ever been a part of, but it did force me to rethink the reason I was spending a summer in Ethiopia.
Volunteering abroad, particularly in developing countries, is a popular summer activity for college students. Humanitarian work has a good reputation among our age group—it is publicized as the ultimate manifestation of altruism, the most selfless way to spend a summer. Hence the popularity of organizations such as Learning Enterprises, the organizer of the Ethiopia program. This assumption, however, is not always correct.
Some of my fellow teachers were frustrated at the incompetence of a government that would kick out volunteers who are willing to give up their time to teach.
When we were questioned by Immigration officials who doubted our credentials and motives, and proceeded to accuse us of “over-knowledging” the children, it was difficult not to respond with a scathing “I am qualified to teach here because I am speaking fluent English and you are using words like ‘over-knowledging.’”
[caption id="attachment_2311" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Monika and her students at Gadaa School in Haramaya. Monika was deported from Ethopia for reasons she continues to dispute."]
[/caption]
Nevertheless they had a good point. High school in Ethiopia is taught exclusively in English, so elementary school students must pass an English competence exam to be able to continue their education. The grammar and content of this exam is appalling.
As a fluent English speaker I was not able to decipher the meaning or correct answer to most of the questions, nor was I able to have an articulate conversation with any of the high school teachers that I met. Most professionals have left the country to find higher salaries in foreign countries, and those that are left have been trained to teach by repetition methods. Furthermore, teachers and parents are expected to use corporal punishment to maintain order and discipline, with the expectation that this will elicit good behavior in the future.
The question then is, why English? Why not adopt Arabic, or even the local language, as the standard for education? At least then there would be native speakers available to teach. Moreover, an English education simply enables the most highly educated individuals to leave the country and put their English skills to use by finding a better salary overseas, and contribute nothing to Ethiopia itself.
If our goal in going to Ethiopia was to educate children, we failed miserably.
We had no understanding of the educational system and the best way to contribute our time and expertise. And the most awful thing about it all is that the government in Ethiopia also has no understanding of the requirements for a successful educational system and the best way to efficiently teach students.
For one, in a country where 17 is the median age and over 46% of the population is under age 14, there is simply a lack of individuals available who could have a full time job as a teacher.
Ultimately, the problem is the lack of soul-searching among those of us who would jump at the chance to teach in Ethiopia. To be truly helpful, a volunteer has to have a clear understanding of the need that exists, and be honest about his/her ability to successfully understand and fill that need.
Can a young, idealistic Western-educated white student fulfill the needs of Ethiopian children in rural Ethiopia? In a word, no.
Monika Wysocki writes and reports for WRGW News. The official press release by Learning Enterprises is available here.
Send your thoughts to wrgwletters@gmail.com
This summer I was illegally detained for 68 hours without my passport or cell phone, and then deported along with 5 other GWU students, after only 3 ½ weeks of what was supposed to be 6 weeks worth of teaching English in Ethiopia.
While it was happening, I was alternatively terrified for my life and amused by the theatrics of the Immigration Center officials, who seemed to be imitating their own vision of the ideal tough guy from a Hollywood crime blockbuster.
It was probably the most ridiculous thing I have ever been a part of, but it did force me to rethink the reason I was spending a summer in Ethiopia.
Volunteering abroad, particularly in developing countries, is a popular summer activity for college students. Humanitarian work has a good reputation among our age group—it is publicized as the ultimate manifestation of altruism, the most selfless way to spend a summer. Hence the popularity of organizations such as Learning Enterprises, the organizer of the Ethiopia program. This assumption, however, is not always correct.
Some of my fellow teachers were frustrated at the incompetence of a government that would kick out volunteers who are willing to give up their time to teach.
When we were questioned by Immigration officials who doubted our credentials and motives, and proceeded to accuse us of “over-knowledging” the children, it was difficult not to respond with a scathing “I am qualified to teach here because I am speaking fluent English and you are using words like ‘over-knowledging.’”
[caption id="attachment_2311" align="aligncenter" width="500" caption="Monika and her students at Gadaa School in Haramaya. Monika was deported from Ethopia for reasons she continues to dispute."]
[/caption]Nevertheless they had a good point. High school in Ethiopia is taught exclusively in English, so elementary school students must pass an English competence exam to be able to continue their education. The grammar and content of this exam is appalling.
As a fluent English speaker I was not able to decipher the meaning or correct answer to most of the questions, nor was I able to have an articulate conversation with any of the high school teachers that I met. Most professionals have left the country to find higher salaries in foreign countries, and those that are left have been trained to teach by repetition methods. Furthermore, teachers and parents are expected to use corporal punishment to maintain order and discipline, with the expectation that this will elicit good behavior in the future.
The question then is, why English? Why not adopt Arabic, or even the local language, as the standard for education? At least then there would be native speakers available to teach. Moreover, an English education simply enables the most highly educated individuals to leave the country and put their English skills to use by finding a better salary overseas, and contribute nothing to Ethiopia itself.
If our goal in going to Ethiopia was to educate children, we failed miserably.
We had no understanding of the educational system and the best way to contribute our time and expertise. And the most awful thing about it all is that the government in Ethiopia also has no understanding of the requirements for a successful educational system and the best way to efficiently teach students.
For one, in a country where 17 is the median age and over 46% of the population is under age 14, there is simply a lack of individuals available who could have a full time job as a teacher.
Ultimately, the problem is the lack of soul-searching among those of us who would jump at the chance to teach in Ethiopia. To be truly helpful, a volunteer has to have a clear understanding of the need that exists, and be honest about his/her ability to successfully understand and fill that need.
Can a young, idealistic Western-educated white student fulfill the needs of Ethiopian children in rural Ethiopia? In a word, no.
Monika Wysocki writes and reports for WRGW News. The official press release by Learning Enterprises is available here.
Send your thoughts to wrgwletters@gmail.com
Fall Fest Finishes on a Low Note
The highlight of Fall Fest this year, a concert featuring Sean Kingston, was cut short after members of the crowd threw objects at the singer.
Fall Fest began without a hitch—beautiful weather, free barbeque and tons of free giveaways including bright red shirts from Program Board and Monster drinks attracted students for record attendance levels.
After the first incident, the music stopped abruptly and Tim Miller, the Executive Director of Student Activities Center, came onstage to warn the audience that their behavior was inappropriate. Kingston then returned to the stage and continued to play his set, only to have more glow sticks thrown at him while he sang the recently popular “Fire Burning.” He then left the stage escorted by his security team.
Students have expressed disappointment with the quality of the concert and Sean Kingston's decision to leave. Sophomore Moire Corcoran reported that she saw Kingston leave in a zip car.
Check out our Flickr Account for more pictures from Fall Fest 2009!
Friday, September 4, 2009
Sen. John Kerry to Discuss Climate Change at GW
Massachusetts Senator John Kerry will give a keynote address at a conference discussing the connection between climate change and national security this Thursday September 10 at the Elliot School of International Affairs.
“The Day Before: A Conference on the National Security Implications of Climate Change" kicks off at 8:45 am with panels and discussions. Senator Kerry will speak from 11:30 - 12:30pm.
This event is free and open to the public. Registration is required. RSVP to rsvpesia@gwu.edu.
“The Day Before: A Conference on the National Security Implications of Climate Change" kicks off at 8:45 am with panels and discussions. Senator Kerry will speak from 11:30 - 12:30pm.
This event is free and open to the public. Registration is required. RSVP to rsvpesia@gwu.edu.
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