UC Washington Center - Capital Connection

Center Forum

2010-04-16T17:04:00.000-07:00

From Swamp to Scandal: A History of Washington DC

Please join Marc Sandalow for a lively discussion and slide show on Washington, DC history.

When: Monday, April 19, 2010

Time: 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Where: Auditorium

White House Garden Tour

2010-04-16T16:28:00.000-07:00

This weekend, the White House will open its gardens and grounds to visitors on Saturday, April 17 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and on Sunday, April 18th from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

The tours are open to the public but a ticket is required for all attendees. The National Park Service will distribute free, timed tickets at the Ellipse Visitor Pavilion located at 15th and E Streets on each tour day beginning at 8:00 a.m. Tickets will be distributed one ticket per person on a first-come, first served basis.

In case of inclement weather, the Garden Tours will be cancelled. You can call the 24-hour information line at 202-456-7041 to check on the status of the event.

(article from Daily Candy, today@DailyCandy.com)

2010-03-31T12:09:00.000-07:00

At 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 3rd, there will be fireworks at the Gangplank Marina, 600 Water Street SW. The best location to view the fireworks is from the Southwest Waterfront Promenade. Prior to the fireworks show, there is musical entertainment beginnning at 5:00P.M.

Yoga on the Mall

2010-03-30T09:19:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, April 3rd, Lululemon Athetica is inviting everyone - new or experienced - to participate in its yoga class at 11:00 a.m on the Mall. The class is a free one-hour/open-level class. If interested, meet at the Washington Monument (Sylvan Theatre lawn located on the northwest corner of 5th and Independence Ave., SW). The closest metro is the Smithsonian. Please be sure and bring your own mat.

Cherry Blossom 2010

2010-03-25T15:15:00.000-07:00

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is an annual two-week event starting March 27 - April 11, that celebrates springtime in Washington, DC as well as the 1912 gift of the cherry blossom trees by Japan. Below is a schedule of events:

March 27 - Cherry Blossom Festival Opening Ceremony

April 3 - Cherry Blossom Festival Fireworks Show

April 10 - Cherry Blossom Festival Parade

There is also paddle boating on the Tidal Basin. Renting a two-person paddle boat is $10 an hour and a four - person boat is $18.00 an hour. The ranger led latern walks around the Tidal Basin start at 8 on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays beginning March 27th. The tours begin in two spots: the Tidal Basin Welcome area (near the paddle boat dock) and the Washington Monument ticket lodge. Be sure an bring a flashlight.

If you want to take a free ranger led bike tour of the cherry blossoms, it is offered Saturdays (beginning on the 27th) and Sundays through the festival. If you don't have your own bike, Bike and Roll offers rentals, as well as two-hour, six-mile Bike the Blossoms tours that begin and end at the kiosk on Pennsylvania Avenue.

For more information, go to the National Cherry Blossom website at: http://www.nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/cms/index.php?id=390

(taken from dcpages.com & Washington Post Going-out-Gurus)

Martin Luther King Events

2010-01-15T15:01:00.000-08:00

Saturday - Monday January 16 - 18
Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Weekend Festival
This three-day event celebrates King's life through activities, dramatic readings, a cappella performances and exhibitions, including the Woolworth's lunch counter where the sit-in movement began in 1960.
Where: National Museum of American History - Smithsonian Institution
14th Street and Constitution Avenue
Washington, DC
Information: 202-633-1000
Time: 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Free
_______________
Music Event
MLK Soul Spectacular -Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Eric Roberson performs.
Where: Lincoln Theatre
1215 U St NW
Washington, DC
Information: 202-328-6000
_______________
Martin Luther King Jr. Day - Chuck Brown performs with a variety of vocal and dance ensembles, including the African Heritage Dancers and Drummers, the Heritage Singing Chorale and the Urban H.I.P.-H.O.P Choir.
Where: Washington National Cathedral
Wisconsin and Massachusetts Avenues NW
Washington, DC
Information: 202-537-6200
_________________
India.Arie and the Let Freedom Ring Choir - The Grammy-winning R&B vocalist leads a tribute to Martin Luther King Jr. in the Concert Hall. Arrive early for free tickets. Beginning at 10 a.m. until noon on Monday, Jan. 18th, tickets will be distributed two per person, on a first-come first-served basis in line in front of the Concert Hall.
Where: The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
2700 F St NW
Washington, DC
Performance Time: 6 p.m.
Information: 202-467-4600
Free

(From The Wasington Post Going Out Guide)

Lincoln Assassination Talk

2010-01-15T14:10:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, Jan. 17th, a National Park Service ranger discusses the shooting of Abraham Lincoln by John Wilkes booth. 5 - 6 p.m., Lincoln Memorial, 23rd Street NW and West Potomac Park. The event is free. Contact Joel Yarvis at 202-438-4391 or joel_yarvis@nps.gov.

(Washington Post, January 14, 2010)

National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

2009-10-29T15:35:00.000-07:00

Tickets for the National Christmas Tree Lighting will be distributed in a new way for 2009 - a lottery system. Tickets are required and will be distributed for FREE. The lottery system will be available at 12:01 a.m. EST on Wednesday, November 4 and will remain open until 11:59 p.m. EST on Friday, November 6. To participate, visit www.thenationaltree.org or call
(877) 444-6777. Successful ticket seekers will be notified by email or US mail (if applied by phone). Status of the lottery will be available online or by phone beginning on November 9. Tickets will be mailed to the lottery winners by November 15.

The lighting cremony for the National Christmas Tree will be held on thursday, December 3, 2009 at 5:00 p.m.

(Article from Rachel Cooper's Washington, DC Blog, dc.guide@about.com)

Fall for the Book

2009-09-14T14:46:00.000-07:00

Fall for the Book is Northern Virginia's largest and oldest literary celebration, which has grown into a week-long, multiple-venue, regional festival that brings together people of all ages and backgrounds to celebrate reading.

This year's exciting event will be conveniently held throughout Maryland, DC and Northern Virginia, bringing famous writers to your backyard. Currently there are over 75 authors confirmed in fiction to nonfiction and poetry, covering a wide range of topics such as the Civil War, mind-body medicine, politics, the environment, economics, folklore, children's books, and more. Authors coming to sign and speak about their books include Fairfax Prize winner E.L. Doctorow, author of Ragtime and The March, American Indian writer and Mason Award winner Sherman Alexie, James Ellroy, author of international bestsellers, L.A. Confidential and The Black Dahlia, and many more.

A growing list of authors and more information is available at http://www.fallforthebook.org/. The festival is from September 21 - 26.

Unseen DC Photography Contest

2009-09-14T14:25:00.000-07:00

Harpreet Toor, UC Riverside summer term student, recently won Best of Show in the UC Washington Center's Unseen DC photography contest for her image entitled, "Sunsetting at Dupont." The Unseen DC photography contest challenged summer term students, faculty and staff to expose the behind the scenes working of Washington, DC. The theme of the competition was to show what the news cameras don't see on Capitol Hill, in the White House & the Federal agencies, the places the tourists don't see or overlook and the thousands of things that happen, unheralded or unnoticed, everyday in this great, international city. Participants were given wide latitude as to how best to protray this challenge. For her work, Ms. Toor was awarded a $50 gift card.

Memorial Day Weekend Special Events 2009

2009-05-08T08:45:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who have died serving our country. This is a great time to honor our veterans and famous Americans by visiting the monuments in Washington, DC. The Memorial Day weekend also marks the beginning of the busy summer season and the Washington, DC region celebrates with family friendly events and special services. Here is the 2009 Memorial Day event schedule:

PBS' National Memorial Day Concert Sunday, May 24, 2009, 8 p.m. PBS sponsors a FREE concert on the West Lawn of the U. S. Capitol. The concert features actors Joe Mantegna and Gary Sinise, and other guest artists along with conductor Erich Kunzel and the National Symphony Orchestra.

National Memorial Day Parade Monday, May 25, 2009, beginning at 2 p.m.The parade of Marching Bands and Veterans units from all 50 states steps off at the corner of Constitution Avenue and 7th Streets, NW and proceeds along Constitution Avenue, past the White House, ending at 17th Street. The National Memorial Day Parade is sponsored by the World War II Veterans Committee and includes patriotic floats and helium-filled balloons. This year’s parade will feature Ernest Borgnine, Lee Greenwood, Edith Shane, and Gary Sinise.

Rolling Thunder Motorcycle Rally Sunday, May 24, 2009. Departure from the Pentagon at 12 p.m. Speaker Program and Musical Tribute 1:30 p.m. at the Reflecting Pool across from The Lincoln Memorial. Thousands of motorcycles ride through Washington in an annual demonstration seeking to improve veteran benefits and resolve POW/MIA issues.

GI Film Festival May 13-17, 2009. In its 2nd year, the festival will be held prior to Memorial Day weekend. See classic and premier films celebrating the heroic stories of the American Armed Forces including a variety of films presented by award-winning Hollywood actors and directors. Participate in panel discussions with soldiers, journalists, authors, and filmmakers.

Arlington National Cemetery Monday, May 25, 2009, 11 a.m. A wreath-laying ceremony and concert will be held at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in honor of Memorial Day.

Navy Memorial Saturday, May 24, 2009. 11 a.m. Rolling Thunder visits the Navy Memorial and holds a wreath-laying ceremony. Monday, May 25, 2009, 11:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. wreath-laying ceremonies; 12:30 p.m. Navy Band concert; 2:00 p.m. Film screening of a PBS documentary about the last reunion of Air Group 16 at the dedication of the WWII Memorial.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial Monday, May 25, 2009, 1:00 p.m. This year's annual Memorial Day ceremony includes Presentation of the Colors, remarks by a special guest and wreath-laying service.

Air Force Memorial Monday, May 25, 2009, 9 a.m. wreath laying ceremony. Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Rodney J. McKinley is the keynote speaker at this ceremony, which is open to the public.

Kennedy Center National Memorial Day Choral Festival May 24, 2009, 2 p.m. A 90-minute program features American choral classics in honor of those who have fought to preserve our nation's heritage. Admission: $10.

(article by Rachel Cooper, About.com)

DC Embassies Open House

2009-05-08T08:29:00.000-07:00

Saturday, May 9, 2009, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. The Embassies of the European Union and the Delegation of the European Commission to the United States will open their doors to the public, offering a rare look at the diverse EU cultures. Take a rare behind-the-scenes look at the European Embassies, many of which are among Washington's historic and architectural treasures. Each Embassy offers a unique program featuring the country's cuisine, its music and special events.

Yoga on the National Mall

2009-05-08T08:21:00.000-07:00

Yoga on the Mall will take place at the SW corner of 15th St. and Constitution Avenue, near the Washington Monument, on Saturday, May 9 from 2-5pm. Nearest metro is Smithsonian. This will be the second annual gathering of this free collective yoga practice on the grounds of the National Mall.

There is no rain date for Yoga on the Mall, but it will be cancelled in the event of heavy rain or thunderstorms - Yoga on the Mall will take place in light drizzle. Any Yoga on the Mall cancellation will be posted on the DC Yoga Week homepage (http://www.dcyogaweek.com/dcyogaweek2009) no later than 11am on Saturday, May 9, so please check the website before coming.

George Washington Invitational Regatta

2009-04-10T11:49:00.000-07:00

This Saturday, April 11, from 8:00AM - 5:00PM, there will be the George Washington Invitational Regatta featuring some of the nation's top collegiate rowing teams on the Potomac River. Races take place in Georgetown, between the Washington Harbour and the Thompson Boathouse.

Washington Harbour
3050 K St. NW
Washington, DC
Information:703-849-9300

U.S. Arboretum

2009-04-10T11:39:00.000-07:00

Instead of fighting crowds at the tidal Basin, consider taking this self-guided tour. Pick up a brochure from the center's administration building to help you find the flowering cherry trees.

US National Arboretum
3501 New York Ave. NE
Washington, DC
Information:202-245-2726
Price:Free
8:00AM - 4:30PM Saturday-Sunday, April 11-12

National Cherry Blossom Fireworks Show

2009-04-10T11:21:00.000-07:00

This Saturday, April 11, from 8:30 - 9:00PM, there will be the National Cherry Blossom Fireworks Show at the Southwest Waterfront in Washington, DC. Get the best view from East Potomoc Park or the Southwest Waterfront Promenade.

Before the fireworks, from 5 - 8:30PM, there will be a free family festival with live music featuring military bands and food from local restaurants.

Location: Southwest Waterfront
7th Street and Maine Ave. SWWashington, DC
Price:Free
Information: 202-547-1500

Spring Forward!

2009-03-06T16:53:00.000-08:00

Daylight Saving Time Begins on Sunday, March 8th—

Spring Forward!

By an act of Congress, on Sunday, March 8, areas on Standard Time returns to Daylight Saving Time at 2:00 a.m. Don’t forget to turn your clocks forward one hour!
Did you know that some areas of the United States not using Daylight Saving Time include, Arizona, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, U.S. Virgin Islands and American Samoa.

Free Admission to Mount Vernon on February 16, 2009

2009-02-09T13:46:00.000-08:00

Admission is FREE on Presidents’ Day, Monday, February 16, 2009! Historic Mount Vernon celebrates George Washington's 277th birthday with three days of special events. Presidents’ Day is a great day to explore George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens and learn more about the life of the first president of the United States.

Schedule for Saturday, February 14 and Sunday, February 15
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Join "George Washington" for breakfast as he enjoys his favorite morning meal, "hoecakes swimming in butter and honey", cooked over an open fire Pull up a hay bale and chat with the Father of Our Country about politics, farming, the Revolutionary War, and life in the 18th century.

1:30 p.m. "America's Smallest Hometown Parade", complete with fife and drum corps, early-American music and heritage breed animals, lines up to march past "General Washington", the Mansion and around the circle drive.

Schedule for Monday, February 16
10:00 a.m. An official wreathlaying ceremony is held at Washington's tomb, followed by a performance and Revolutionary War battle demonstration by the 3rd U.S. Infantry Fife and Drum Corps and the Commander-in-Chief's Guard. "General Washington" will be on the grounds to greet visitors and receive their birthday wishes.

1:30 p.m. "America's Smallest Hometown Parade" makes its Monday debut with an encore of its weekend performances. The parade includes a fife and drum corps, early-American music and heritage breed animals marching past "General Washington", the Mansion and around the circle drive.

Schedule for Saturday, February 21
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Beginning February 21, Historic Mount Vernon's F.M. Kirby Gallery in the Donald W. Reynolds Museum hosts a special new exhibition, "George Washington & His Generals." For the first time, a collection of over 120 paintings, personal artifacts and manuscripts associated with the generals of the Continental and French armies who served under George Washington will be on display. "George Washington & His Generals" exhibition is co-sponsored by the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association and The Society of the Cincinnati and will remain on view through January 10, 2010. Admission to the F.M. Kirby Gallery is included with regular admission.

Schedule for Sunday, February 22
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. George Washington's Real Birthday! Anyone named George, or whose birthday, like Washington's, is February 22, will be admitted FREE upon presenting identification.

(Article from About.com by Rachel Cooper)

National Archives Special Display

2009-02-09T13:15:00.000-08:00

February 12-16, 2009. The highlight of the year-long celebration of Lincoln's birthday will be a special display of the original Emancipation Proclamation signed by President Lincoln, in the National Archives East Rotunda Gallery. The special display of the original Emancipation Proclamation is free and open to the public.

(from About.com)

Washington DC Restaurant Week 2009

2009-02-09T13:10:00.000-08:00

During Washington, DC Restaurant Week, 170 of Washington, DC’s finest restaurants offer 3-course lunches for $20.09 and 3-course dinners for $35.09. Washington, DC Restaurant Week is a great opportunity to experience Washington, DC’s best restaurants at affordable prices. A complete list of participants is posted at opentable.com

Dates: February 16 - 22, 2009

(from About.com by Rachel Cooper)

Lincoln's 200th Birthday Celebration

2009-02-09T12:58:00.000-08:00

Washington, DC will host a citywide four-month celebration marking the Lincoln Bicentennial, (February 12, 2009 - Lincoln’s 200th Birthday) with more than 80 exhibitions, performances, lectures, and guided tours honoring Abraham Lincoln. Beginning January 1 and running through April 30, the nation’s capital will offer an impressive lineup of major events and commemorations of one of America’s best loved leaders. Events occurring in February are:

February 12, 2009, Lincoln's Birthday Tribute and Wreath Layingat the Lincoln Memorial, 8:00 a.m. A world-class concert and entertainment special, featuring nineteenth century popular and patriotic music performed by outstanding military bands.

February 12, 2009 – Reopening of Ford’s Theatre Open House and Birthday Celebration. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. An exciting day of speakers, performances and activities to celebrate President Lincoln's 200th Birthday and the reopening of Ford's Theatre after an extensive renovation.

(Article from About.com by Rachel Cooper)

Inauguration Central

2009-01-16T16:01:00.000-08:00

Your one-stop shop for all things inaugural, including answers to frequently asked questions about events, parties, crowds and transportation; the Inauguration Watch blog with the latest news stories, panorama photography and webcam images showing construction of the stage; historical photos; a visitors guide; a prediction game and more. All at Washingtonpost.com/inauguration.

Inauguration Weekend Simplified

2009-01-16T15:50:00.000-08:00

Below please find one guide from Roll Call Staffer, Emily Yehle that covers logistics/tips/etc:
Inauguration Weekend: Simplified

As President-elect Barack Obama’s inauguration quickly approaches, security officials continue to release dozens of advisories, recommendations and updates. So that you don’t have to read them all, here’s a brief version with all the essentials.
Opening Celebration at Lincoln Memorial: Sunday, Jan. 18
• Entrances open at 8 a.m. The show starts at 2:30 p.m.
• Don’t bring bicycles, pets, coolers, backpacks or large bags, aerosol cans, thermal or glass containers, supports for signs or laser pointers.
• If driving, park at RFK Stadium and take a shuttle bus from Lot 8. It would be best not to drive at all, however, because road closures are rampant and the Memorial and Theodore Roosevelt bridges will be closed.
• If walking, arrive through one of these entrances: Constitution Avenue at 19th Street, Constitution Avenue at Virginia Avenue, 17th Street at North Elm Walk, 17th Street at South Elm Walk or Independence Avenue at the D.C. War Memorial.
• If taking the Metro, get off at the Farragut North or Metro Center stops on the red line; Farragut West, Federal Center or Smithsonian stops on the blue or orange lines; and L’Enfant Plaza or Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter stops on the yellow or green lines.
Bottom Line: Ditch the car, walk or take the Metro, and arrive early.
Getting to the Big Event: Tuesday, Jan. 20
• If coming from Virginia, you can walk or bike across any bridge. Bikes can be parked between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. through free valet services on the south side of the Jefferson Memorial and on 16th Street Northwest between I and K streets.
• Metro stations will open at 4 a.m. Tuesday and close at 2 a.m. Wednesday.
• Don’t make Metro transfers — the crowds will make it difficult and Metro is discouraging it. If you live on the red line, get off at Union Station. Orange and blue liners should disembark at the Capitol South stop. And those on the yellow and green line should plan to make the hike from the L’Enfant Plaza or Gallery Place-Chinatown stops.
• From 4 a.m. to about 6:30 p.m., the Smithsonian and the Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter stops will be closed.
• At 7:30 a.m., the Mt. Vernon Square/Seventh Street-Convention Center station will close.
• Starting at 4 p.m., Judiciary Square station will close.
Bottom Line: Walk if you can. If you must take the Metro, don’t transfer.
The Big Event Itself: Tuesday, Jan. 20
• If going to the parade or swearing-in, don’t bring umbrellas, coolers, thermoses, alcohol, strollers, pets, backpacks or large bags or laser pointers.
• The public will be allowed on the parade route starting at 7 a.m. Enter from the north of Pennsylvania Avenue; the only entrances from the south are 14th or 12th streets Northwest at Constitution Avenue.
• If just going to the National Mall, only alcohol and glass bottles are prohibited. But beware: The rules could change.
• Approach the Mall from the south, if possible. A fence around the Capitol and a security border around the parade route make coming from the north or east more difficult.
• Jumbotrons will be set up along the entire length of the Mall, including next to the Lincoln Memorial, but not along the parade route.
• Eat a big breakfast. Food will be hard to come by, and only “small snacks” are allowed on Capitol grounds.
• Dress in layers. Weather predictions put the temperature in the mid-30s with a chance of snow.
Bottom Line: Pack light. Eat before heading out. And plan your route.
Sources: Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies, Presidential Inaugural Committee, Secret Service, inauguration.dc.gov

No Sales Tax in DC from Black Friday - Dec. 7

2008-12-04T09:39:00.000-08:00

Twice a year, the D.C. government grants a reprieve from the 5.75 percent sales tax on clothing, shoes and accessories that cost less than $100. The tax holiday began on Black Friday and continues through Dec. 7. For details, call the Office of Tax and Revenue at 202-727-4829 or visit http://cfo.dc.gov/otr.

National Christmas Tree Lighting

2008-12-03T15:10:00.000-08:00

The lighting of the National Christmas Tree is the beginning of a three week Washington, DC Christmas tradition. Nationally known entertainers and a military band perform and the President brings a message of peace to the nation and the world.

2008 Live Entertainment:
country music star, Rissi Palmer
multiple Grammy winner Jon Secada
popular Nashville singer/songwriter Phil Vassar
Washington-based dance troupe Step Afrika!
U.S. Army Chorus’s SFC Steve Cramer appearing as Santa Claus
4-year-old singer Kaitlyn Maher, who came to national attention as one of the ten finalists in this year’s “America’s Got Talent” competition. The United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own,” under the baton of Colonel Thomas Rotondi, Jr. will be this year’s featured service band, with The Enterprise High School Encores from Enterprise, Alabama providing vocal support to the guest artists as well as solo performances of holiday favorites.

Date and Time: December 4, 2008, 5 p.m.Location: The Ellipse near The White House. The closest Metro stations to the White House are Federal Triangle, Metro Center and McPherson Square.

Islam: Empire of Faith on UCDC-TV

2008-10-13T10:15:00.000-07:00

Islam: Empire of Faith

Sponsor: UCDC Center Forums

Where: UCDC-TV (Channel 6)

When: Monday, October 13th - Wednesday, October 15th, 9AM

From the birth of the prophet Muhammad to the rise of the caliphs and the glories of the Ottomans, Islam: Empire of Faith illuminates the first thousand years of an often neglected and misunderstood civilization. Historical re-enactments, a remarkable exposition of Islamic art, artifacts and architecture, and interviews with scholars recount the rise of early Islamic civilization and its profound impact on Western culture and world history.

Charlie Wilson's War on UCDC-TV

2008-10-10T12:36:00.000-07:00

Charlie Wilson's War
Sponsor: Prof. Yoshinaka
Where: UCDC-TV (Channel 6)
When: Friday, October 10th - Monday, October 13th

In the early 1980s, Charlie Wilson is a womanizing US congressional representative from Texas who seemed to be in the minor leagues, except for the fact that he is a member of two major foreign policy and covert-ops committees. However, prodded by his major conservative supporter, Joanne Herring, Wilson learns about the plight of the people are suffering in the brutal Soviet occupation of Afghanistan. With the help of the maverick CIA agent, Gust Avrakotos, Wilson dedicates his canny political efforts to supply the Afghan mujahideen with the weapons and support to defeat the Soviet Union. However, Charlie Wilson eventually learns that while military victory can had, there are other consequences and prices to that fight that are ignored to everyone's sorrow.

Free Jazz Concert

2008-10-03T14:22:00.000-07:00

Alex Han and Beyond the Construct perform a fusion of rhythm and blues, funk and hip-hop at 6:00PM at the Kennedy Center, Millennium Stage. For more information call 202-467-4600.

This Week on UCDC-TV

2008-10-01T12:41:00.000-07:00

Bulworth
Sponsor: Prof. Yoshinaka
Where: UCDC-TV (Channel 6)
When: Friday, October 3rd - Monday, October 6th at 8AM

"Bulworth"
A political comedy that features a funny and magnetic Warren Beatty as the discouraged politician Bulworth, who has organized his own assassination but, after a three day bender of not sleeping, decides that he wants to live after all. He begins to tell the complete truth at all times, not caring about the potential repercussions of his offensive, yet honest, remarks.

Programming on Channel 6 repeats continuously during its scheduled airtime.

The Candidate on UCDC-TV

2008-09-26T14:18:00.000-07:00

The Candidate
Sponsor: Prof. Yoshinaka's The US Congress class
Where: UCDC-TV (Channel 6)
When: Friday, September 26 - Wednesday, October 1st at 8AM

"The Candidate" (1972):
Bill McKay (Robert Redford), an idealistic young lawyer and son of a famous governor, is pressured into running for the United States Senate against the popular incumbent, with the assurance that he will lose and not have to give up his integrity or ideals. However, as the campaign deepens, he finds himself giving in, allowing himself to be manipulated as the polls slowly change and swing in his favor. Soon his backers decide that they want him to win after all. By the time Election Day arrives, McKay has become the person that he used to speak so vehemently against.

Programming on Channel 6 repeats continuously during its scheduled airtime.

2008 National Book Festival

2008-09-19T07:00:00.001-07:00

The National Book Festival, hosted by First Lady Laura Bush, will be held on Saturday, September 27th, from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. There will be more than 70 award-winning authors, illustrators and poets who will talk about and sign their books. National Book Festival Pavilions will be set up for Fiction & Mystery, History & Biography, Children & Teens, Poetry, and Home & Family. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, call 202-707-1550.

Washington DC Charitiy Walks

2008-09-19T07:00:00.000-07:00

Georgetown - September 20, 2008. This 5K or 1K Walk along the historic C & O Canal will begin at the Shops at Georgetown Park, Washington, DC. Over 500 walkers are expected to attend this non-competitive event that focuses on increasing awareness about kidney disease, those at risk and the need for organ donation. The event is free and open to the public, although individual participants and teams are encouraged to raise money for National Kidney Foundation of the National Capital Area, which is especially important considering the Washington, DC metropolitan area has the highest prevalence of kidney disease in the United States. Registration begins at 8:00 a.m. and the walk will begin at 9:00 a.m. Contact: Tyler Bowers Email: tbowers@kidneywdc.org. Phone: (202) 244-7900
________________________________________

Washington, DC - Sunday, September 28, 2008. This 4 mile, no fee, non-competitive walk with family activities aims to raise funds for those with kidney disease, awareness for those at risk, and hope for those affected by kidney disease. The walk will begin and end at the beautiful Georgetown Waterfront. Enjoy a spectacular view of the Potomac River as you follow the scenic route along the C&O Canal Path. Enjoy food, beverages and live entertainment from Mix 107.3. A walk route of one mile is available for those who would like a shorter stroll. Registration opens at 7:30 a.m. Walk begins at 8 a.m. Date: Sunday, September 28, 2008 Time: 7:30 Check-in beginsPlace: Washington Harbour, 3000 K Street, NW, Washington, D.C.

DC Asian Pacific American Film Festival

2008-09-16T08:11:00.000-07:00

The 9th annual DC Asian Pacific American (APA) Film Festival runs September 25 through October 4, 2008 at locations throughout the DC area, including Landmark's E Street Cinema, Navy Memorial Theater, Goethe-Institut, and Freer Gallery of Art. The festival will showcase 14 features and over 45 short films will be shown, supplemented by Q&A sessions, panel discussions, and special events. Come and participate--it's a great way to meet locals around the area for networking opportunities! For a complete schedule of films and descriptions, check out http://www.apafilm.org.

Adams Morgan Day Festival 2008

2008-09-12T09:06:00.000-07:00

Adams Morgan Day Festival 2008 will be celebrating its 30th Anniversary, Sunday, September 14, from noon untill 7pm. The Arts on Belmont opens at 10:00am.

Adams Morgan has a rich and vibrant arts and cultural community which is recognized for its diversity in cultures, countries, indie businesses and neighborhood. The Adams Morgan Day Festival celebrates the creativity that comes from the synergy of diverse cultures. First held in 1978, this regional festival celebrates international cultures and creativity, arising from the “melting pot” quality of the unique Adams Morgan neighborhood. Stroll the colorful storefronts and sidewalk cafes and enjoy the neighborhood scale away from the mall.

Arts on Belmont showcases original work of artists and artisans along a shady, tree-lined street. Artists bring glassware and metalwork, paintings, ceramics, jewelry, sculptures, photography and more!

Vendors Galore! Food vendors offering cuisines for all palettes, and international specialty items, arts and crafts, jewelry, clothes, and unique gifts.

USC Graduate Study Interest Reception

2008-09-12T08:34:00.000-07:00

Interested in graduate school? Consider the University of Southern California Rossier School of Education.
The University of Southern California Rossier School of Education will be hosting a Graduate Study Interest Reception in Washington, D.C. on Thursday, September 18, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Join Dr. Kristan Venegas, Master's Programs Director, and admissions staff for an informational reception at the USC Office in Washington, D.C. If you can join them, kindly respond by Friday, September 12 to Joyce at rsoeadm@usc.edu or 213-740-0224. Refreshments will be served.

Hoops for the Homeless 2008

2008-09-12T08:14:00.000-07:00

Join Magic Johnson, Gilbert Arenas and dozens of other celebrities on September 13th, at the Verizon Center for Hoops for the Homeless 2008, sponsored by Freddie Mac

Young Soldiers invites all youth between 12-17 to sign-up for Hoops for the Homeless at the Verizon Center, which is happening on Saturday, September 13. The event is hosted by Magic Johnson and Gilbert Arenas in an effort to help the homeless. They can register after each service or call 301-773-7325 and bring a canned good on the day of the event.

Saturday, September 13, 2008
9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Cost: $10 + Canned goods for admission
Metro: (Gallery Place/Chinatown) to the Verizon Center.

For more information call:
301-773-7325

2008-09-10T14:19:00.000-07:00

Every Friday, the National Gallery of Arts Sculpture Garden offers free jazz concerts in the Sculpture Gardens. Experience an eclectic mix of top Washington-area jazz artists. Concerts take place in front of the pavilion café next to the grand reflecting pool and fountain.

Metro: Archives/Navy Memorial, Smithsonian and Judiciary Square.

Dates: Every Friday, September 12 to October 3, 2008

Time: 5 to 8:30 p.m.

Location: The Pavilion Café at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden, 7th and Constitution NW, Washington, DC. Admission: Free

Performance Schedule

September 12 - 5-6:30 Bruce Ewan and the Solid Senders, 6:30 - 8:30 The U.S. Navy Commodores (Swing Jazz)
September 19 - Warren Wolf (Vibes)
September 26 - 5-6:30 The Rob Levit Trio, 6:30 – 8:30 The U.S. Navy Commodores (Swing Jazz)
October 3 - The Duke Ellington Jazz Festival Presents Frédéric Yonnet (Harmonica)

Penn Quarter Arts on Foot Festival

2008-09-10T13:44:00.000-07:00

The Penn Quarter Arts on Foot Festival is a visual and performing arts festival featuring Washington, DC theaters, museums, and arts at a variety of venues in the Penn Quarter neighborhood of Washington, DC. The festival becomes an art walking tour with area restaurants, theaters, galleries, museums, and more than 80 visual artists participating and dozens of Downtown attractions hosting visual art exhibits, performances, workshops, demonstrations, films, concerts and children's activities.

Date and Times:September 13, 2008, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Location: Penn Quarter, between 4th and 14th Sts., Pennsylvania Ave. and L St.Washington, DC. Metro Stations Near Penn Quarter: Gallery Pl-Chinatown, Metro Center, Archives-Navy Mem’l-Penn Quarter, Federal Triangle, Mt. Vernon Sq/7th Street-Convention Ctr, and Judiciary Square
(Article by Rachel Cooper, About.com)

Washington DC 4th Annual 9/11 Unity Walk

2008-09-10T13:29:00.000-07:00

In a powerful statement reminiscent of Gandhi's Walks, every church, synagogue, mosque and temple on Embassy Row opens their doors to each other and symbolically the world. People of all faiths will come together on September 14th for the 4th Annual 9/11 Unity Walk, the signature event in Washington, DC for building bridges between faiths.

When: Sunday, September 14
Time: 1:30pm
Where: Washington Hebrew Congregation, 3935 Macomb Street NW Washington, DC 20016 (Corner of Massachusetts and Macomb St. NW)

(by Rachel Cooper, About.com)

The Pentagon Memorial Dedication

2008-09-10T13:19:00.000-07:00

The Pentagon Memorial will be officially dedicated and open to the public on September 11, 2008. To commemorate the Pentagon Memorial's public opening, the Navy Band and the Sea Chanters Chorus will perform a musical tribute from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. on the stage adjacent to the Memorial.The Pentagon Memorial commemorates the 184 lives lost in the Pentagon and on American Airlines Flight 77 during the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.

Memorial Location I-395 at Boundary Channel Drive Washington DC. The site is accessible from the Pentagon Metro Station. Parking is not available on site. Visitors can park at the Pentagon City Mall at 1100 S Hayes St, Arlington, VA, which is a short walk to the Pentagon.

(Article by Rachel Cooper, About.com)

Labor Day Events

2008-08-29T13:31:00.000-07:00

The National Archives will be displaying the Treaty of Paris, the document that ended the American Revolution, beginning August 29. It will remain on view through September 3, which is the 225th anniversary of its signing. For more information, call 866-272-6262.

Carter Barron Blues Festival, Saturday, August 30, at noon at the Carter Barron Amphitheatre, 4850 Colorado Avenue, NW. Free but tickets are required. Call (202) 426-0486. (Metro: Take the S2 or S4 Metrobus from 16th & N Streets, NW)

On Saturday, August 30, from 2-10:00 p.m., The Kennedy Center will have more than 25 area theater companies hold reading and open rehearsals of plays and musicals that will be performed in the 2008-2009 theater season. The event is free. Kennedy Center, 2700 F St. NW. For more information call (202) 467-4600 or 800-444-1324. (Metro: Foggy Bottom)

NSO Capitol Concert, Sunday, August 31 at 8:00 p.m. on the west lawn of U.S. Capitol, East Capitol and First Streets. Emil de Cou will be conducting the orchestra. This is a free event. For more information call 202-467-4600.

Washington DC Restaurant Week

2008-08-04T08:30:00.000-07:00

There’s no better time to taste what’s new on the Washington, DC restaurant scene than Washington, DC Restaurant Week. From August 11 through August 17, dozens of the city’s top restaurants will offer three-course, fixed price lunch and dinner specials priced at $20.08 (lunch) and $30.08 (dinner). For a list of participating restaurants visit www.opentable.com.

Summertime Weekly Performances & Events in DC

2008-08-04T08:18:00.000-07:00

Weekdays from 12-1:30 p.m. (through September 28) Live! On Woodrow Wilson Plaza, Ronald Reagan Building, 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW. From salsa to strings and blues to swing, you’re in for an entertaining treat at Live! Savor world-renowned entertainment in a variety of flavors, such as African dance, Celtic folk songs, jazz, hip hop, Latin swing and pop rock. Every lunchtime performance is a crowd-pleaser and it’s free. (202) 312-1300 or http://www.itcdc.com/. (Metro: Federal Triangle)

Mondays 6:00 & 7:30 p.m., National Theatre, Helen Hayes Gallery, 321 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW. (202) 783-3372 or http://www.nationaltheatre.org/. Monday showcase features local performers, original plays, singers, musical ensembles, dance, drama and comedy. Tickets are free but required and are distributed a half-hour before the show on the day of the performance. (Metro: Metro Center)

Mondays and Thursdays at 8:00 p.m. (through August), U.S. Navy Band Summer Concert Series, US Capitol, west side. (202) 433-2524 or http://www.navyband.navy.mil/. The U.S. Navy Band and specialty groups perform a series of concerts on the steps of the west side of the U.S. Capitol. Free. (Metro: Capitol South). Tuesdays at 8:00 p.m. (through August). U.S. Navy Band performs at the U.S. Navy Memorial, 701 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW. (202) 433-2524 or http://www.navyband.navy.mil/. (Metro: Archives/Memorial)

Wednesdays at 8:00 p.m. (through August 15), “The President’s Own” U.S. Marine Band, presents its outdoor concert series at the U.S. Capitol, West Terrace. These concerts feature light classics, country music, and popular band favorites.
(202) 433-4011 or http://www.marineband.usmc.mil/.

Thursdays 6:30-8:00 p.m. (through August 9), Sunset Serenades at the National Zoo, 3001 Connecticut Avenue, NW (202) 673-4482 or http://www.nationalzoo.si.edu/. Enjoy free summer concerts featuring local artists performing a wide variety of music, including jazz, blues, folk, rock/pop, reggae, and more (Metro: Woodley Park/Zoo)

Thursdays, 5:00-7:00 p.m. (through August 23), Farragut Sounds in the Square, Connecticut Avenue & K Street, NW. (202) 463-3400 or http://www.gtbid.com/. Thousands of office workers, tourists and residents relax to music in the renovated Farragut Square. (Metro: Farragut West)

Fridays at 5:00 p.m. (through August 31), Jazz in the Sculpture Garden, Constitution Avenue between 3rd and 9th Streets, NW, (202) 737-4215 or http://www.nga.gov/. Enjoy summer evenings of jazz in the National Gallery of Arts Sculpture Garden. Experience an eclectic mix of top Washington-area jazz artists. Concerts take place in front of the pavilion café next to the grand reflecting pool and fountain. (Metro: Archives/Navy Memorial)

Thursdays 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m., the Freer and Sackler Art Galleries offer an extended evening of contemporary art exhibitions and other cultural activities. Extended hours are through August 9. (Metro: Smithsonian)

Mondays at sunset, July 14-August 11, 2008, Screen on the Green, National Mall between 4th & 7th Streets, NW, (877) 262-5866. Recline in the heart of Washington, DC on a summer night, gazing at a gigantic movie screen and enjoy a classic film. This summer’s last two movies are “The Apartment” (1960) and “Superman” (1978). (Metro: Archives/Navy Memorial)

Fridays at dusk, (through August 22), All Bond movies are being featured, rain or shine, at Gateway Park, located at N. Lynn Street and Lee Highway just two blocks from Rosslyn. (Metro: Rosslyn) Call The Events Line (703-276-7759) or go to http://www.rosslynva.org/.

(Source: The Washington Post & the Web)

KAPLAN TEST PREP Free GMAT Sample Class

2008-07-16T08:17:00.000-07:00

TRY OUR CLASS—FOR FREE!

Free GMAT Sample Class

Thursday, July 24th, 6:30-8:30pm
Kaplan Center, 2025 M St NW

Come to this free event and learn valuable strategies and methods to raise your GMAT score, including:

*Explore techniques for getting a higher GMAT score
*Crucial test day strategies
*An overview of Kaplan’s GMAT course and materials

Call or visit us online today to register!

1-800-KAP-TEST kaptest.com

KAPLAN TEST PREP Free Law School Insider Event

2008-07-16T08:14:00.000-07:00

DEVELOP YOUR COMPETITIVE EDGE
Free Law School Insider Event

Get a behind-the-scenes look at law school admissions.
You will have the opportunity to:

* Hear admissions officers from Georgetown Law, George Washington Law, and George Mason Law discuss putting together an application that gets you in

*Participate in a sample LSAT class– explore strategies for getting a higher LSAT score & crucial test day strategies

*Learn what factors schools consider and how to improve your chances of admission

Wednesday, July 23rd, 7:00pm

Dupont Circle Kaplan Center
2025 M St. NW
Washington, DC 20036

RSVP with name and phone number to DC.Law.Insider@gmail.com

1-800-KAP-TEST kaptest.com

KAPLAN Test Prep and Admissions Free GRE Sample Class

2008-07-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

TRY OUR CLASS—FOR FREE
Free GRE Sample Class

Thursday, July 17th, 6:30-8:30pm
Kaplan Center, 2025 M St NW

Come to this free event and learn valuable strategies and methods to raise your GRE score, including:

* Advanced Math techniques for Quantitative Comparisons
*Strategies for new GRE question types, Numeric Entry and Text Completion
*An overview of Kaplan’s GRE course and materials

Call or visit us online today to register!

1-800-KAP-TEST kaptest.com

2008 Capital Fringe Festival

2008-07-10T07:53:00.000-07:00

July 10—27 at sites across Washington
Downtown DC will come to life with its second Capital Fringe Festival. There will be numerous performing artists and groups—600 individual performances in over 30 venues within the eighteen days. For more information on schedule of events call 202-315-1303 or visit capitalfringe.org to download the print version of the Festival Guide.

Student Pugwash USA

2008-07-08T12:48:00.000-07:00

Join other Washington interns and leading experts to discuss today’s top science and technology topics!

CUTTING CARBON IN 2009

Climate Change and the Next Administration

Friday July 11, 200812 noon- 1:15 pmPizza and drinks will be served
Young voters passionate about the environment are looking to the next generation of policymakers for solutions to this issue. What impact might the '08 elections have on climate change policy solutions? Are the candidates' goals for reducing carbon emissions feasible? What global initiatives are achievable in the near future?

Speakers:
MANIK ROYDirector, Congressional AffairsThe Pew Center on Global Climate Change
Second Speaker TBA
(Metro stations: Farragut North or Farragut West)
Seating is limited. RSVP online or to contact@spusa.org by July 10!

Want more information about our upcoming Policy Portal events?
Email contact@spusa.org.

Science, Technology, & U.S. Power (July 18)
Learn more about Student Pugwash's 2008 Science & Tech Election Guide and Multimedia Contest for Cash

Millennium Stage at the Kennedy Center

2008-07-03T08:07:00.000-07:00

Free Performances Every Day, No Tickets Required

Performance Time: 6 p.m. Eastern, unless otherwise noted. For information call (202) 467-4600 or visit http://www.kennedy-center.org/. (Metro: Foggy Bottom)

Thursday, July 3, 2008
Tutu Jones and the Soul Crew
Guitarist Tutu Jones exemplifies the sound of South Dallas where blues and soul meet to create a special Texas mix. Part of the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, this year celebrating Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon; 50 years of NASA; and the music, food, and wine of Texas.

Friday, July 4, 2008
Mark Halata and Texavia
Once named Texas State Accordion Champion, Mark Halata leads this Houston-based Czech polka band with a country music flair. Part of the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, this year celebrating Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon; 50 years of NASA; and the music, food, and wine of Texas.

Saturday, July 5, 2008
Bhutan Song and Dance
“Bhutan: Land of the Thunder Dragon” comprises Bhutanese religious festivals and traditional dances. The dramatic, masked dances date back to the 16th century. Part of the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, this year celebrating Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon; 50 years of NASA; and the music, food, and wine of Texas.

Sunday, July 6, 2008
James “Slim” Hand
Over the past 40 years, this country music artist has been plying his craft in countless smoky dives and dance halls. Part of the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, this year celebrating Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon; 50 years of NASA; and the music, food, and wine of Texas.

Monday, July 7, 2008
Jazz Envoys
The four musicians that make up the Jazz Envoys—bassist Giovanni Bermudez, vocalist Alexandra Cabanilla, pianist Victor Hugo Espinosa, and drummer Juan Posso—were selected through a rigorous audition process conducted by a panel of adjudicators from various Quito music institutions. Presented in cooperation with the U.S. Department of State and the Embassy of Ecuador.

Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Hip-Hop Theater Festival
Hosted by legendary poet Sonia Sanchez, this special evening features poets from two slam poetry groups, Brave New Voices College Tour and the DC Writers Corps Slam Team, and the progressive music group Triflava. Presented in cooperation with the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities.

Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Bobby Radcliff
Bruce Ewan

Washington, D.C. veteran performer Bruce Ewan joins his guitar hero brother Bobby Radcliff. Having been a part of the D.C. blues scene for years, the two musicians bring a true “Blues Brothers” experience to the Grand Foyer.

Thursday, July 10, 2008
Stageworks Festival
Students from the largest young artist festival in North America—participants hail from the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, and Asia—perform opera, musical theater, jazz, cabaret, chamber music, and more.

Friday, July 11, 2008
The Donato Soviero Quartet
Led by guitarist and composer Donato Soviero, this quartet swings with jazz standards and original tunes.

Saturday, July 12, 2008
The Plateros
This family band from the Tohajiilee Navajo Reservation in New Mexico crank out blues and rock music. Part of the NMAI Summer Music Series, presented in cooperation with the National Museum of the American Indian.

Sunday, July 13, 2008
NSO Summer Music Institute Orchestra
IN THE CONCERT HALL
Conducted by Elizabeth Schulze, the orchestra performs a program that includes Dvo?ák’s Carnival Overture, Smetana’s “The Moldau,” and Schumann’s Symphony No. 3 “Rhenish.” Part of the NSO Summer Music Institute.

Monday, July 14, 2008
Washington National Opera Institute for Young Singers

Participants in this intensive, three-week training program perform a variety of well-known, semi-staged opera scenes in English, as well as Italian art songs.

Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Eastern Music Festival Piano Program
Selected students from this superior summer program for pre-professional musicians perform a variety of works.

Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Green Mic
IN THE CONCERT HALLg
Poetry slam champions, aged 13-25, from throughout the U.S. speak truth to power about global warming. Part of the Brave New Voices Youth Speaks! 11th International Youth Poetry Slam.

Thursday, July 17, 2008
Roy Carrier
A living legend from Southwest, Louisiana, Carrier entertains with Cajun, Creole, and zydeco tunes.

Friday, July 18, 2008
Leo Blanco
This Venezuelan pianist, composer, and arranger blends South American, Middle Eastern, and African rhythms into his eclectic jazz style. Presented in cooperation with the Embassy of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

Saturday, July 19, 2008
Eric Gratz
Sejoon Park
Renowned rising star violinist Eric Gratz teams with award-winning pianist Sejoon Park to perform classical works by Mozart, Brahms, and Franck.

Sunday, July 20, 2008
NSO Summer Music Institute
Participants perform an evening of chamber music. Part of the NSO Summer Music Institute.

Monday, July 21, 2008
NSO Summer Music Institute
Participants perform an evening of chamber music. Part of the NSO Summer Music Institute.

Tuesday, July 22, 2008
NSO Summer Music Institute
Participants perform an evening of chamber music. Part of the NSO Summer Music Institute.

Wednesday, July 23, 2008
NSO Summer Music Institute
Participants perform an evening of chamber music. Part of the NSO Summer Music Institute.

Thursday, July 24, 2008
The Zionaires
For 54 years, this uplifting gospel group from Princess Anne, Maryland has shared their joyful singing. Part of the Homegrown: The Music of America concert series, presented by The Library of Congress American Folklife Center.

Friday, July 25, 2008
The Chancel Choir
Based at Westminster Presbyterian Church in West Chester, Pennsylvania, this group provides the backbone of the church’s music program.

Saturday, July 26, 2008
Jamie Coon
This singer/songwriter has been nominated for both “Best New Artist” and “Best Pop Recording” in this year’s Native American Music Awards, fusing classic rock, country, and soul. Part of the NMAI Summer Music Series, presented in cooperation with the National Museum of the American Indian.

Sunday, July 27, 2008
NSO Summer Music Institute Orchestra
IN THE CONCERT HALL
Conducted by Elizabeth Schulze, the orchestra performs Thomas’s Overture to Mignon and Mahler’s Symphony No. 1. Part of the NSO Summer Music Institute.

Monday, July 28, 2008
Ahwach of Aday
Ahwach is the the communal dance specific to the Berber Amazigh population of Morocco, from the village of Aday. This secular art combines dance, poetry, and songs unique to each tribe and is sometimes coed, and sometimes strictly male.

Tuesday, July 29, 2008
The Crossmen Drum & Bugle Corps
A fusion of talent and vision, these marching musicians have grown to become a perennial Drum Corps International (DCI) World Champion Finalist, reaching the DCI Finals 22 times in the Corps’ 33-year history.

Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Belgrade Piano Duo

Founded in 1997 by Daniela Bratkovic and Janko Djokovic, the duo performs works by Josif Marinkovi?, Ivan Jevti?, Mihailo Živanovi?, and more. Presented in cooperation with the Embassy of the Republic of Serbia.

Thursday, July 31, 2008
Alfredo Naranjo
This master vibraphonist leads an ensemble of accomplished musicians in Latin jazz and danceable beats. Presented in cooperation with the Embassy of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

Independence Day Celebrations

2008-07-03T06:53:00.000-07:00

(From Washingtonpost.com)

National Independence Parade: 11:45 a.m. on Constitution Avenue NW from Seventh to 17th streets.

A Capitol Fourth: Actor Jimmy Smits hosts. Performers include Huey Lewis and the News, Taylor Hicks, Jerry Lee Lewis and the National Symphony Orchestra; Tchaikovsky’s "1812 Overture," with cannon fire, 8 p.m. Fireworks, 9:10 p.m. Concert on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol, East Capitol and First streets; fireworks on the Washington Monument grounds, Independence Avenue and 15th Street NW. For more information call 202-619-7222.
Wreath Laying: Tomb of Elbridge Gerry, a signer of the Declaration of Independence and vice president, 10 a.m., Historic Congressional Cemetery, 1801 E St. SE. Free. For more information call 202-543-0539.

National Archives: Performance by the U.S. Army 3rd Infantry (Old Guard) Fife and Drum Corps; a reading of the Declaration of Independence, with actors portraying Thomas Jefferson, John Adams and Benjamin Franklin, 10 a.m., Constitution Avenue NW, entrance near Seventh Street. For more information call 202-357-5000.

The Smithsonian Metro Station will be closed July 4. Stations nearby include Metro Center, Gallery Place-Chinatown, Judiciary Square, Federal Triangle and L'Enfant Plaza.

Summer 2008 Forum/Science/Arts Speakers

2008-07-02T06:58:00.000-07:00

Monday, June 16th
Bruce E. Cain
Executive Director, UC Washington Center
‘Recapping the Primary Election Season’

Monday, July 7th
Dan Sheehy
Director, Smithsonian Folkways
‘Publishing World Music at the Smithsonian’

Wednesday, July 9th
Dr. Jack Werner
Professor, Opthamlogy, UC Davis
‘Aging Through the Eyes of Monet’

Monday, July 14th
IGCC/Stanley Foundation Panel
Anoush Ehteshami, Professor of International Relations and Head of the School of Government and International Affairs at Durham University
Michael Kraig, Director of Policy Analysis and Dialogue at the Stanley Foundation
Riccardo Redaelli, Director of the Middle East Program at the Landau Network
‘US Options Towards Iran’

Tuesday, July 15th
Dr. Gaya Dowley
NIDA—National Institutes for Health
‘A Career Path Leading to NIH’

Monday, July 21st
Anne Kornblut
Journalist, The Washington Post

Monday, July 28th:
Veronica Li, Author
Shari Rak, Professional musician

Monday, August 4th
Scientists in Public Service Panel
Jacques Read, Scientist, Department of Energy
Steve Koehn, State Forester for Maryland

What is Creativity and How Do I Get Some?

2008-06-19T11:05:00.000-07:00

UCDC Monday Night Forum - Monday, July 28th

Three prominent DC artists discuss the nature of creativity as it applies to the visual, performing and literary arts. Come join visual artist Lynden Cline, musician Shari Rak and author Veronica Lee as they tackle the ages-old question of what stimulates creativity in artistic endeavors.

Arts & Humanities Spotlight

Dan Sheehy, Director of Smithsonian Folkways

2008-06-19T10:53:00.000-07:00

UCDC Monday Night Forum - Monday, July 7th

Did you know that the Smithsonian Institution has its own record label? Dan Sheehy, Director of Smithsonian Folkways talks about the challenges and excitement of running a major publisher of world music.

Arts & Humanities Spotlight

Utopia - A Picture Story

2008-06-19T10:45:00.000-07:00

An exhibition of Australian indigenous batik prints at the Embassy of Australia, 1601 Massachusetts Avenue, NW. The exhibition is open from June 10th through August 29th, 10am - 2pm, weekdays. A photo ID is essential for entry.

Arts & Humanities Spotlight

Student Pugwash USA & Scientists & Engineers for America

2008-06-06T11:41:00.000-07:00

Policy Portal:
A Science & Tech Policy Series for Interns

Join other Washington interns and leading experts to discuss today’s top science and technology topics!

***************************
Student Pugwash USA & Scientists and Engineers for America Present
Science, Technology, and the 2008 Elections:

How the Upcoming Elections Will Impact Science & Technology Policy

Thursday June 12, 2008
12 noon- 1:30 pm
A light lunch will be served

How can your vote influence the upcoming presidential and congressional elections to advance science, technology, and health policies that will benefit us all? How can scientists, engineers, and those in related fields promote policies that will advance U.S. interest and global development in the next decade?

Speakers:

Rep. Rush Holt
12th District of New Jersey

Henry Kelly
President
Federation of American Scientists

Meeting hosted at:
Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
1779 Massachusetts Avenue, NW
(Nearest Metro station: Dupont Circle)

Seating is limited. RSVP online or to contact@spusa.org by June 11!

Want more information about our upcoming Policy Portal events?
Email contact@spusa.org.

Attend all our Policy Portal Programs!
Nuclear Energy: Fight the Power? (June 20)
Changing the Healthcare Debate in '08 (June 27)
Cutting Carbon in '09: Climate Change & the Next Administration (July 11)
Science, Technology, & U.S. Power (July 18)
Learn more about Student Pugwash's 2008 Science & Tech Election Guide and Multimedia Contest for Cash
See What your Representatives and Candidates think about Science at SEA’s SHARP Network

"The American Presidents" Photo Exhibit

2008-06-04T06:53:00.000-07:00

Washington, D.C. — “The American President,” an exhibit of compelling news photos from the Associated Press, will be on view at the National Press Club, 529 14th St. NW, from June 3 to July 12. The display will be open to the public from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday.
The exhibit shows American presidents at war and at ease, in victory and in defeat, confronting national crises and facing personal scandals, running for office and leading the country on the world stage.
Amid the extraordinary voter interest in the 2008 race for the White House, the new exhibit helps illustrate one constant in the ever-shifting media landscape. The coverage of the White House by AP reporters and photographers has been the dominant source of presidential news across the U.S. and around the world.
“The American President” features a number of the AP’s Pulitzer Prize-winning images, including Paul Vathis’ view of John F. Kennedy conferring gravely with his predecessor, Dwight D. Eisenhower, at Camp David after the unsuccessful Bay of Pigs invasion in 1961; Ron Edmonds’ rapid sequence documenting the 1981 assassination attempt on Ronald Reagan, and White House photos taken by J. Scott Applewhite and others during Bill Clinton’s 1998 impeachment battle.
The more than 80 photos in the exhibit underscore the need for the AP photojournalists assigned to cover the White House to always keep their eyes on the president, so they won’t miss those revealing, unexpected moments that could easily dominate thousands of front pages and Web sites around the world.
“The American President” includes memorable shots from the AP Images photo library, which contains more than 10 million film and digital images, and pictures taken in this year’s run for the White House by Senators Hillary Clinton, John McCain and Barack Obama.
For further information, visitors may call the National Press Club, at 202-662-7516, or e-mail mcooke@press.org.

Arts & Humanities Spotlight

Poster History at National Portrait Gallery

2008-06-03T07:53:00.000-07:00

Arts & Humanities Spotlight

See "Ballyhoo! Posters as Portraiture" an exhibit of 60 posters highlighting the history of the poster from 1860 to the present. This exhibition includes everything from the 1865 "Wanted" poster for Lincoln assassin Johns Wilkes Booth to Johnny Depp as Jack Sparrow in the smash movie hit Pirates of the Caribbean.

Where: National Portrait Gallery
8th & F Streets, NW
When: Through Feb. 8, 11:30 AM to 7 PM Daily
Admission: Free

(Week 8) March 3 – March 9

2008-03-07T15:27:00.001-08:00

Monday, March 3 – Tuesday, March 4
El Che – Professor Cline
"El Che", investigates a legend. Ernesto "Che" Guevara de la Serna represents one of the most enduring images of a political leader. His legendary character has been an inspiration for millions, yet many condemn him--sometimes bitterly. For all, he is a subject of controversy and passion. This fascinating film examines the myth of the 'most idolized revolutionary of the 20th century' (NY Times) and contains:
- his voyages of discovery through Latin America -the meeting with Fidel Castro, when an instantaneous friendship was born
-His travels around the world as Cuba's ambassador, sent by Castro to meet Krushchev, Nasser, Nehru, Tito, Mao...
-His days as victorious leader of guerrilla warfare and a cold blooded revolutionary [sic]
-His various disguises worthy of a Hollywood thriller -The disastrous episode in the Congo
-Film footage of his tragic end in Bolivia at 39

Wednesday, March 5
TBD

Thursday, March 6
TBD

Friday, March 7 – Sunday, March 9
Fail Safe - Professor Hart
A technical malfunction in the Pentagon's strategic control system causes an erroneous order to be sent to a B-58 squadron on a routine mission instructing the bombers to fly beyond their fail safe points. At this point the flight crew are trained to cease communications and prepare to fulfill their objective by bombing Moscow. As the planes near their target, the crisis deepens and together the Americans and Soviets decide on a final desperate solution. Whereas Dr. Strangelove's black comic plot revolves around a similar situation, Fail Safe, which was made at exactly the same time and also distributed by Columbia, is a very serious take on the possibility of mutual destruction. With Henry Fonda, Walter Matthau, Larry Hagman.

UCDC TV Schedule (Week 8 - February 25 - March 2)

2008-02-27T13:01:00.000-08:00

Monday, February 25 – Tuesday, February 26
City of God – Professor Cline
Celebrated with worldwide acclaim, this powerful true story of crime and redemption has won numerous prestigious awards around the globe! The streets of the world’s most notorious slum, Rio de Janeiro’s “City of God,” are a place where combat photographers fear to tread, police rarely go, and residents are lucky if they live to the age of 10. In the midst of the oppressive crime and violence, a frail and scared young boy will grow up to discover that he can view the harsh realities of his surroundings with a different eye: the eye of an artist. In the face of impossible odds, his brave ambition to become a professional photographer becomes a window into his world and ultimately his way out.

Wednesday, February 27
Super-Size Me - Professor Brandes
Why are Americans so fat? Find out in Super Size Me, a tongue in-cheek - and burger in hand -- look at the legal, financial and physical costs of America's hunger for fast food. Ominously, 37% of American children and adolescents are carrying too much fat and 2 out of every three adults are overweight or obese. Is it our fault for lacking self-control, or are the fast-food corporations to blame? Filmmaker Morgan Spurlock hit the road and interviewed experts in 20 U.S. cities, including Houston, the "Fattest City" in America. From Surgeon Generals to gym teachers, cooks to kids, lawmakers to legislators, these authorities shared their research, opinions and "gut feelings" on our ever-expanding girth. During the journey, Spurlock also put his own body on the line, living on nothing but McDonald's for an entire month with three simple rules: 1) No options: he could only eat what was available over the counter (water included!) 2) No supersizing unless offered 3) No excuses: he had to eat every item on the menu at least once It all adds up to a fat food bill, harrowing visits to the doctor, and compelling viewing for anyone who's ever wondered if man could live on fast food alone. The film explores the horror of school lunch programs, declining health and physical education classes, food addictions and the extreme measures people take to lose weight and regain their health. Super Size Me is a satirical jab in the stomach, overstuffed with fat and facts about the billion-dollar industry besieged by doctors, lawyers and nutritionists alike. "Would you like fries with that?" will never sound the same!

Thursday, February 28
TBD

Friday, February 29 – Sunday, March 2
Breach - Professor Hart
In February, 2001, Robert Hanssen, a senior agent with 25 years in the FBI, is arrested for spying. Jump back two months: Eric O'Neill, a computer specialist who wants to be made an agent is assigned to clerk for Hanssen and to write down everything Hanssen does. O'Neill's told it's an investigation of Hanssen's sexual habits. Within weeks, the crusty Hanssen, a devout Catholic, has warmed to O'Neill, who grows to respect Hanssen. O'Neill's wife resents Hanssen's intrusiveness; the personal and professional stakes get higher. How they catch Hanssen and why he spies become the film's story. Can O'Neill help catch red-handed "the worst spy in history" and hold onto his personal life?

2008-02-15T14:40:00.000-08:00

The University of California Institute on Global Conflict and Cooperation (IGCC) and

the UC Washington Center

Cordially invite you to a discussion with the author of:

Hidden in Plain Sight: The Bush Military Buildup

Prof. Daniel Wirls
Professor of Politics, UC Santa Cruz

Monday, February 25, 2008, 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.

University of California Washington Center, 1608 Rhode Island Ave. NW,

Washington, D.C. 20036

From 2000 to 2008 defense spending increased over 70 percent. That might not seem like a lot for a nation at war, were it not for the fact that the 70 percent increase does not include the over $500 billion separately appropriated since 2002 to cover the costs of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The attacks of September 11, 2001 not only triggered a declaration by the Bush administration of a “global war on terror,” they also facilitated, under the cover of that conflict, a military buildup separate from the funding for the war on terror -- one of the largest increases in military spending in the country’s history. This buildup is one of the most important legacies of the Bush presidency and yet one of the less understood and least controversial. The politics of war protected and obscured its size and significance. Daniel Wirls is author of, among other works, Buildup: The Politics of Defense in the Reagan Era (Cornell 1992) and The Invention of the United States Senate (Johns Hopkins, 2004).

Please join us to hear Prof. Wirls discuss the background and politics of the buildup and its implications for future budgets.

Please RSVP, acceptances only, to Joseph R. McGhee at the IGCC Washington office: Phone (202) 974-6295; Fax (202) 974-6299; email: joseph.mcghee@ucdc.edu.

UCTV Week 6 (February 11 - February 18)

2008-02-11T10:14:00.000-08:00

Monday, February 11 – Tuesday, February 12

Blow – Professor Cline

Based on a true story, Blow chronicles the high-speed rise and fall of George Jun (Johnny Depp) who became the largest importer of Colombian cocaine in the United States, forever changing the face of drugs in America. Set in the decadent 70s and 80s, Blow traces George Jung’s partnership with Pablo Escobar, one of the most infamous and dangerous drug lords in history.

Wednesday, February 14

Mostly Martha - Professor Brandes

Mostly Martha is a rich addition to the recent banquet of movies about food. Martha (Martina Gedeck), the domineering chef at a fancy restaurant, has her rigid routine broken when her sister dies in a car wreck, leaving behind her 9-year-old daughter Lina (Maxime Foerste). Martha takes the girl in, but has no gift for maternal expression; she offers Lina food, but Lina refuses to eat. Meanwhile, her control over her kitchen is threatened when her boss hires a buoyant Italian named Mario (Sergio Castellitto) to assist, and Martha finds herself flailing in an effort to reestablish control of her life. While Mostly Martha may not hold many surprises, the writing, direction, and particularly the acting are as sumptuous and sensual as the cooking and eating. The relationship between Martha and Lina is portrayed with all its awkwardness and complications intact; the result is wonderfully affecting.

Thursday, February 15

The Natural History of the Chicken – Professor Carter

Most people best know the chicken from their dinner plates -- whether as thigh, wing or drumstick. Consumers barely pause a moment to consider the bird's many virtues. Filmmaker Mark Lewis (Cane Toads: An Unnatural History and Rat) expands the frontiers of popular awareness and delightfully reveals that this small, common and seemingly simple animal is as complex and grand as any of Earth's creatures.

Friday, February 16 – Sunday, February 17

Dr. Strangelove - Professor Hart

Stanley Kubrick’s celebrated 1964 black comedy about the cold war. U.S. Air Force General Jack Ripper goes completely and utterly mad, and sends his bomber wing to destroy the U.S.S.R. He suspects that the communists are conspiring to pollute the "precious bodily fluids" of the American people. The U.S. president meets with his advisors, where the Soviet ambassador tells him that if the U.S.S.R. is hit by nuclear weapons, it will trigger a "Doomsday Machine" which will destroy all plant and animal life on Earth. Peter Sellers portrays the three men who might avert this tragedy: British Group Captain Lionel Mandrake, the only person with access to the demented Gen. Ripper; U.S. President Merkin Muffley, whose best attempts to divert disaster depend on placating a drunken Soviet Premier and the former Nazi genius Dr. Strangelove, who concludes that "such a device would not be a practical deterrent for reasons which at this moment must be all too obvious". Will the bombers be stopped in time, or will General Jack Ripper succeed in destroying the world?

Monday, February 18

Traffic – Professor Cline

It’s the high-stakes, high-risk world of the drug trade as seen through a well-blended mix of interrelated stories: a Mexican policeman (Benicio del Toro) finds himself and his partner caught in an often deadly web of corruption; a pair of DEA agents (Don Cheadle and Luis Guzman) work undercover in a sordid and dangerous part of San Diego; a wealthy drug baron living in upscale, suburban America is arrested and leans how quickly his unknowing and pampered wife (Catherine Zeta-Jones) takes over his business; and the U.S. President’s new drug czar (Michael Douglas) must deal with his increasingly drug-addicted teenage daughter.

UCTV Shedule for Week 5

2008-02-07T08:01:00.001-08:00

Week 5) February 4 – February 10

Monday, February 4

The Official Story – Professor Cline

Set during the Argentine Dirty War of the 1970s, where the government “disappeared” -- imprisoned, tortured, and killed -- Argentine citizens whom they considered subversives, this film won the 1985 Oscar for Best Foreign Film. A fictional Buenos Aires couple with an adopted child personalize the story of children of the disappeared.

Tuesday, February 5

Ratatouille – Professor Carter

A rat named Remy dreams of becoming a great French chef despite his family's wishes and the obvious problem of being a rat in a decidedly rodent-phobic profession. When fate places Remy in the sewers of Paris, he finds himself ideally situated beneath a restaurant made famous by his culinary hero, Auguste Gusteau. Despite the apparent dangers of being an unlikely - and certainly unwanted - visitor in the kitchen of a fine French restaurant, Remy's passion for cooking soon sets into motion a hilarious and exciting rat race that turns the culinary world of Paris upside down.

Wednesday, February 6

Eat, Drink, Man, Woman - Professor Brandes

This film tells the story of a retired and widowed Chinese master chef Chu (Sihung Lung) and his family living in modern day Taipei, Taiwan. At the start of the film, he lives with his three attractive daughters, all of whom are unattached. The three daughters represent three stereotypes of woman: the oldest one an old maid school teacher with a broken heart, the middle one the career woman who is afraid of commitment, the youngest one the school girl who is growing up to be a woman. As the film progresses, each daughter encounters new men. When these new relationships blossom, the stereotypes are broken and the living situation within the family changes. The film concludes with a surprise ending involving the chef himself. Directed by Ang Lee.

Thursday, February 7

Maria Full of Grace – Professor Cline

María Alvarez (Catalina Sandino-Moreno), a bright, spirited 17 yr old, lives with three generations of her family in a cramped house in rural Colombia. Desperate to leave her job stripping thorns from flowers in a rose plantation, María accepts a lucrative offer to transport packets of drugs—which she must swallow—to the United States. The ruthless world of international drug trafficking proves to be more than María bargained for as she becomes ultimately entangled with both drug cartels and immigration officials. The dramatic thriller builds toward a conclusion so powerful it could only be based on a thousand true stories.

Friday, February 8 – Sunday, February 10

The Day the Earth Stood Still - Professor Hart

Robert Wise’s groundbreaking 1951 Sci-Fi film. A spaceship lands in Washington DC, capturing the attention of the world. But the alien emissary (Michael Rennie) it brings refuses to reveal his mission to any single government, leaving the military, the politicians, and millions of ordinary people to wait in fear. Soon their distrust turns to calls for violence. But one young woman and her son befriend him and soon realize that they may be all that stands between the human race and total destruction. Now being remade with Keanu Reeves, Jennifer Connolly and Kathy Bates. Klaatu barade nikto.

Robert T. Matsui Prize

2008-01-30T07:18:00.000-08:00

ROBERT T. MATSUI PRIZE IN WRITING ON PUBLIC SERVICE

Winter 2008 Competition Announcement

This writing competition, sponsored by the Robert T. Matsui Foundation for Public Service and the UC Washington Center Director’s Office affords UCDC program participants the opportunity for formal reflection on their experiences in public service. Students submitting winning entries will be known respectively as the gold, silver, and bronze winners of the Robert T. Matsui Prize in Writing on Public Service and will received the following cash prizes:

Gold: $500.00

Silver: $250.00

Bronze: $250.00

About Representative Matsui and the Matsui Foundation

The Honorable Robert T. Matsui, a graduate of U.C. Berkeley and the U.C. Hastings College of Law, lived a life of unwavering commitment to public service, including during more than a quarter century representing Sacramento in the United States House of Representatives until his passing in 2005. For more information about his life and legacy, please visit: http://www.rtmfoundation.org/

The Competition

Written entries should be five to ten double-spaced pages of reflection on public service values and the student’s internship experience. Submissions will be judged based on: (1) quality of writing or narrative; and (2) insightful comment on or exploration of the spirit of public service that Representative Matsui exemplified through his career and life.

Timeline & Mechanics: Deadline: March 3, 2008

For the winter quarter 2008, submissions are due via e-mail to Roya Soleimani (roya.soleimani@ucdc.edu) by midnight on March 3, 2008. In fairness to all participants, late entries will not be accepted.

UC Center Forum

2008-01-30T07:12:00.000-08:00

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity!
The UC Washington Center Presents:
Conversations with the Secretary: An Evening with Former Secretary of Labor, Robert Reich

Saturday, February 2, 2008
6 - 7:30PM
Multi-Purpose Rooms A/B/C

This event is open to all faculty, staff, students, and Alumni of the UC Washington Center

Please RSVP to Roya Soleimani (roya.soleimani@ucdc.edu) by January 31st to attend!

Next Stop NEW HAMPSHIRE!!

2008-01-07T14:14:00.000-08:00

Join Executive Director Bruce Cain in the auditorium to view the New Hampshire Primary as the 2008 Presidential hopefuls face the second battlefield in the
“Granite State”!

Tuesday, January 8th
7pm-9pm
First Floor Auditorium and Lobby

- Make Your Own Predictions
- Watch the Returns as They Come In
- Hear about the Campaign Blunders

Light Refreshments Will Be Served

Wild Pitch: Curveball and Selling the Iraq War

2007-11-30T15:17:00.000-08:00

In 1999, a mysterious Iraqi applied for political asylum in Munich. The young chemical engineer offered compelling testimony of Saddam Hussein’s secret program to build weapons of mass destruction. He claimed that the dictator had constructed germ factories on trucks, creating a deadly hell on wheels. His German hosts passed along his account to their CIA counterparts, but denied CIA agents access to their star informant. The Americans dubbed him with an unforgettable code name: Curveball. After September 11, 2001, the Bush administration seized on Curveball’s account as evidence that Saddam’s government needed to be overthrown—in spite of numerous indicators that the informant’s credibility was unraveling. Bob Drogin answers the crucial question of the Iraq war: how and why was America’s intelligence so wrong?
Bob Drogin is the national security correspondent for the Los Angeles Times. He previously served for the Times in Asia and Africa, and as a national correspondent based in New York. He has won or shared multiple journalism awards, including the Pulitzer Prize, the Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Award, and the George Polk Award.
Join the New America Foundation for an engaging discussion on intelligence failure in the run-up to the Iraq war, followed by a robust Q&A session led by Dr. Jeffrey Lewis.
Featured SpeakerBob DroginNational security correspondent, Los Angeles TimesAuthor, Curveball: Spies, Lies, and the Con Man Who Caused a War ModeratorDr. Jeffrey LewisDirector, Nuclear Nonproliferation and Strategy InitiativeAmerican Strategy Program
To RSVP for this event, reply to this email: communications@newamerica.net with name, affiliation, and contact information.

Tuesday, December 4, 2007

12:15 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.

New America Foundation1630 Connecticut Ave, NW, 7th FloorWashington, DC

America’s Changing Social Contract

2007-11-30T14:56:00.000-08:00

Despite the sustained economic growth of recent years, Americans are increasingly concerned with economic security. Even before economists began reporting signs of recession, skyrocketing health care costs, faltering pensions, and burgeoning inequality frayed the fabric of the American social contract. America's social contract is an evolving, complex web of legal and informal relationships between households, employers, government, and civil society that extends beyond particular federal programs. Now is the time to strike a new bargain between these sectors, rethinking the rights and responsibilities of each. Breathing new life into the American social contract is needed to keep pace with our 21st century economy and build the conditions for sustained growth and healthy families.
The New America Foundation/Next Social Contract Initiative invites you to join a discussion to help redesign the American social contract. Speakers, discussants, and panelists will return to first principles and address the roles that government, business, families, and civil society have to play in the next social contract.
The Next Social Contract Initiative aims to reinvent American social policy for the twenty-first century. Through a program of research and public education, the initiative will explore the origins of our modern social contract, articulate the guiding principles for constructing a new contract, and advance a set of promising policy reforms. For the full agenda, please visit the New America website.

Monday, December 3, 2007

9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

(Lunch will be provided)

The Mayflower Hotel - East Room1127 Connecticut Ave, NWWashington, DC

Martyrs Without Borders

2007-11-30T14:51:00.000-08:00

The rate of suicide attacks in the Iraqi insurgency has surpassed the number of suicide operations by all previous insurgent groups combined, including those by Hezbollah in Lebanon, Tamil Tigers in Sri Lanka, and Hamas in Israel. Many of the suicide bombers are foreign volunteers--they come from neighboring countries such as Saudi Arabia and Syria, and from as far away as North Africa and Europe. What motivates these foreign fighters to make this journey of death? Dr. Mohammed Hafez, author of Suicide Bombers in Iraq, will answer this and other vexing questions by examining the varied factions that comprise the Iraqi insurgency, the ideology and theology of martyrdom, and the prospects for a new generation of global jihadists forged in the crucible of Iraq.
Dr. Mohammed Hafez earned a Ph.D. in international relations from the London School of Economics and has received major research grants from the United States Institute of Peace and the Harry Frank Guggenheim Foundation. He is the author of Suicide Bombers in Iraq: The Strategy and Ideology of Martyrdom (2007); Manufacturing Human Bombs: The Making of Palestinian Suicide Bombers (2006); and Why Muslims Rebel: Repression and Resistance in the Islamic World (2003). Next year, he will join the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California, as an associate professor of national security affairs.
Join the New America Foundation for an engaging discussion on suicide bombers with Dr. Hafez, followed by a robust Q&A session led by Patrick C. Doherty.

Friday, November 30, 2007

12:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

New America Foundation 1630 Connecticut Ave, NW, 7th FloorWashington, DC

Fall 2007 Farewell Dinner

2007-11-30T14:45:00.000-08:00

Friday, December 7th, 6pm-8pm, Room ABC

UCLA, UCSB, UCD, UCSD, UCI, UCR, and UCR Join your fellow Fall UCDC 2007 class for a night of dinner and fun!

UCDC Alumni Network

2007-11-21T11:22:00.000-08:00

Did you love your UCDC experience? Are you planning on coming back to Washington? If so, please join the newly created UCDC Alumni Database!

We hope to stay connected with YOU, our awesome alums and to continue to grow as a program and as a Center.

As you know, The UC Washington Center is hosting more events and creating new opportunities for alumni, students and the DC community. You are an integral part of that community whether you are in DC or California.

Please join the UCDC Alumni Network by signing up on this page (http://www.ucdc.edu/students/alumni.cfm) it will take less than 5 minutes and once you register you will receive e-mails about local DC and Center events or receive the newsletter and specific events for Californians. In addition to events information, you will also have the opportunity to serve as a career contact to help incoming interns or find that old roommate or UCDC friend. We keep the e-mails to a minimum and will not share your information with outside parties.

For questions or more information please contact Roya Soleimani at roya.soleimani@ucdc.edu or (202)974-6345. We look forward to welcoming you in the network.

Center Forum

2007-11-09T16:08:00.000-08:00

James Miller, GWU Professor and United States Black History Expert

Jim Miller is Professor of English and American Studies at The George Washington University, where he has been teaching since 1998. Dr. Miller received his A.B. degree from Brown University and his Ph.D. from the State University of New York at Buffalo, where he directed the Black Studies Program from 1969-1971.

His major teaching fields are African American Literature and Culture, Twentieth Century American Studies, and Literary/Historical criticism. Professor Miller's essays and reviews have appeared in a wide range of publications, including Critical Studies in Mass Communications, The Year Left, Callaloo, Journal of American Studies, The Boston Sunday Globe, Tikkun, Cineaste, American Literature, Village Voice Literary Supplement, Z Magazine, The Nation, and The Washington Post Book World.

MONDAY, November 19th

6:30pm-7:30pm

Auditorium

Free BURRITOS will be served at 6:

LGBTQIA Hour

2007-10-26T15:27:00.000-07:00

Join us in a safe and supportive space for conversation and to get to know one another while in Washington!

8:30 pm Mondays, Room 1104

Center Forum

2007-10-26T15:22:00.000-07:00

Politics, Journalism and Nancy Pelosi

With

Marc Sandalow

Marc Sandalow is just finishing a biography on House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. He wrote for the San Francisco Chronicle for 21 years, spending his last 10 years as the paper’s Washington Bureau Chief. He has covered presidential elections, congress, a presidential impeachment, the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, the Berkeley City Council, World Series, and earthquakes (including an earthquake at a World Series.)

Sandalow has been writing from Washington since 1993. He appears daily in the Bay Area as a political analyst on KPIX-TV and KCBS-radio, and was a contributing editor to the California Journal. He is the co-author of “Ballparks: A Panoramic History” and his biography of Pelosi is scheduled to be released in April.

MONDAY, October 29th

6:30pm-7:30pm

(food at 6:15pm)

AUDITORIUM

Free Food and Drinks will be served

p.s. As a friendly reminder, if you join us for your dinner, you have to stay and enjoy the program as well!! It is our pleasure to provide informative events and food for people who join us, but as a courtesy, please do not dine and dash!

Street Closings for IMF/World Bank Meetings

2007-10-18T07:12:00.000-07:00

October 17, 2007

E-ALERT: Street Closings for IMF/World Bank Meetings

The following information was provided by the District Department of Transportation:

The International Monetary Fund and World Bank will hold its annual meetings from Friday, October 19 through Monday, October 22, 2007. Consequently, the following street closures and pedestrian restrictions will be in effect:

STREET CLOSINGS

Beginning at 8 pm on Friday, October 19, until 2 am on Sunday, October 21, the following streets will be closed:

· Pennsylvania Avenue, NW between 17th Street and 20th Street, NW

* 19th Street, NW between I ("Eye") Street and F Street, NW

* H Street, NW between 17th Street and 20th Street, NW

Beginning at 8 pm on Friday, October 19, until 9 pm on Monday, October 22, the following streets will be closed:

* 18th Street, NW between F Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

· 19th Street, NW between F Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

* 20th Street, NW between F Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, NW

* F Street, NW between 17th Street and 20th Street, NW

Vehicular access to the 1700-2000 blocks of Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, the 1700 - 1800 blocks of H Street, NW, and the 800 block of 19th Street, NW is tentatively scheduled for AM Rush Hour traffic on Monday, October 22, 2007.

PEDESTRIAN RESTRICTIONS

Only pedestrians with business in the area and proper identification will be permitted access to the following locations:

· 600, 700, and 800 blocks of 18th Street, 19th Street, and 20th Street, NW

· 1700, 1800, 1900, and 2000 blocks of G Street, NW

· 1900 block of H Street, NW

The public is advised that the street closings are subject to change without prior notice due to prevailing conditions. The District Department of Transportation wishes to take this opportunity to thank the public for their cooperation and understanding in this matter.

Informational Meeting on Graduate Study in Political Science

2007-10-17T13:34:00.000-07:00

Professor Sam Kernell will hold a brief informational meeting on graduate study in political science from 5:30 to 6 on Wed., October 24 in room 318. He would be happy to discuss graduate study in general and proffer tips on the application process. (Mr. Kernell has served on the department's graduate admissions committee during the past several years.) He is mainly interested, however, in stimulating interest in UCSD's nationally ranked political science program.

Philadelphia Trip

2007-10-16T07:16:00.000-07:00

Philadelphia Trip
Saturday, October 20 , 2007
6:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Students who signed up will take a bus to Philadelphia to visit the Liberty Bell, Congress Hall, Independence Hall, Franklin Court and other historical sites. Once you arrive in Philly, tour guides will accompany you on a 3-hour walking tour. Afterwards, you will have a couple of hours to do more exploring on your own. Make sure you visit South Street and grab a greasy Philly cheese steak!
_______________________________________

6:30 a.m. — Meet Chris Cunningham (CA) in the UC Center lobby. Please check in with Chris when you arrive .

6:45 a.m. — Begin boarding buses.

7:00 a.m. — Depart for Philadelphia.

8:00 a.m. — Stop for coffee break at the Maryland House.
(Time permitting)

8:30 a.m. — Depart from Maryland House.

10:45 a.m.— Meet tour guide at Independence Transportation Center, Race Street between 5th & 6th Street

11:00 a.m. — Begin 3-hour walking tour of historic Philadelphia. Tour will be on the bus if it’s raining.

2:00 p.m. — Individual time to do more exploring

4:45 p.m.—Meet buses at Independence Transportation Center (drop off location)

5:00 p.m.— Buses depart for UC Washington Center.

8:00 p.m.—Arrive at UC Washington Center.

Questions? Contact Alverta @Alverta.scott@ucdc.edu or (202) 974-6208

Author Series Event

2007-10-15T14:37:00.000-07:00

Author Series Event with

John Kao

Innovation Nation: How America is Losing Its Innovation Edge, Why it Matters, and How We Can Get It Back

Wednesday, October 17th 2007
6:30-8:30

Conference Center B1
1800 K St. NW, Washington, DC 20006

Members $10 Non-Members: $15 Students/Interns: No Charge

As Americans, we have long ascribed to the notion that we are the global leaders in innovation. The fact is that an ominous, seismic shift is occurring. Other nations- not only China and India, but also smaller countries such as Singapore, New Zealand, and Denmark- are moving ahead of us in some areas of innovation. Singapore, a country with a population of only 4.4 million people, has a fully functioning city- Biopolis- devoted entirely to scientific research. The largest nanotechnology research center in the world will be in Beijing, and the second largest in Shanghai. The competition, and our obstacles, seems overwhelming- what can be done to return America back to its preeminent position?

In Innovation Nation, John Kao sounds the alarm by diagnosing the current (and admittedly grim) situation, describing the best innovation practices from around the world, explaining how innovation works at a national level, and putting forth a revolutionary proposal for a U.S. strategy that all stake holders can get behind.

John Kao, dubbed "Mr. Creativity" by the The Economist, is a leading expert on innovation, large-scale transformation, and high-technology. He taught at the Harvard Business School for 14 years and is the founder of Kao & Company, an advisory and venture development firm that counts leading companies, government agencies, and political figures among its clients. He serves on the Department of Defense's Transformation Advisory Group.

Questions? Contact The World Affairs Council of Washington, DCPh: 202-293-1051

Fax: 202-293-3467 Email: event@worldaffairsdc.org

T-Shirts!

2007-10-15T12:42:00.000-07:00

WANT A UCDC SHIRT?

Order forms are available at the Residential Life office on the 4th floor
DEADLINE TO ORDER:
OCTOBER 26, 2007

Not sure of your size? Come try one on!

Questions? Email Sarah at sarah.watson@ucdc.edu

Matsui Foundation for Public Service Writing Prize

2007-10-15T12:19:00.000-07:00

The Robert T. Matsui Foundation for Public Service and the UC Washington Center Director’s Office are proud to sponsor a competition affording UCDC program participants the opportunity for formal reflection on their experiences in public service. Students submitting winning entries, to be selected by the Foundation from finalists identified by UCDC faculty, will receive the following cash prizes and will be known respectively as the gold, silver, and bronze winners of the Robert T. Matsui Prize in Writing on Public Service.

Gold: $500.00
Silver: $250.00
Bronze: $250.00

For more information and to apply please click here: http://www.ucdc.edu/students/matsui.pdf

Graduate Program Information Session

2007-10-15T12:07:00.000-07:00

An elite interdisciplinary M.A. Program offers new and seasoned professionals practical research training to meet the analytical challenges of today’s workplace…

UC-Irvine Graduate Program in

Demographic & Social Analysis

Information Session:
Wednesday, October 17th
6:00-7:00 p.m.

UC Washington Center
Room 301 (3rd floor)

Earn a Master’s Degree in three quarters!

Gain the research tools in demand in business, government, and nonprofit sectors

Work closely with distinguished faculty from a dozen departments

Join the DASA Director for pizza and conversation

Now accepting applications for Fall, 2008, DASA is a joint program of the Schools of Social Sciences and Social Ecology. For further information, visit http://www.demography.uci.edu/ or contact Professor Judith Treas (jktreas@uci.edu or 949-824-8324).

DALAI LAMA TO SPEAK FROM U.S. CAPITOL LAWN

2007-10-15T11:54:00.000-07:00

The International Campaign for Tibet is honored to announce a public address by His Holiness the Dalai Lama on October 17, 2007 following his receipt of the Congressional Gold Medal in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda.
Congress has passed a resolution permitting the International Campaign for Tibet to sponsor a public event on the Capitol grounds in connection with the Gold Medal award ceremony.
ICT is working with U.S. Tibetan Associations to organize a special event and celebration of the award, being presented to His Holiness “…in recognition of his enduring and outstanding contribution to peace, non-violence, human rights, and religious understanding.”
The Dalai Lama’s speech will follow cultural performances by the Tibetan community in a gathering expected to be attended by thousands. Members of the public are welcome and encouraged to attend the festivities on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol Mall beginning at 11:00 a.m. on October 17, 2007.

FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
OCTOBER 17, 200711:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Campus * Progress

2007-10-15T10:12:00.000-07:00

Evaluating Higher Education Institutions and College Rankings
When?October 16, 200712:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Where?
Center for American Progress1333 H Street NW, 10th floorWashington, DC 20005

Do students and parents have the information they need to make decisions about what college or university to choose? What criteria do we value in institutions of higher education and what information do we need to make choices about where to attend? Join Campus Progress and the Center for American Progress for a discussion of college and university rankings and the availability of public information on the performance of institutions of higher learning. The discussion will address questions about whether and how institutions of higher education should be ranked, what criteria are important, and whether the public has access to the information that we need to make informed decisions.Join us as we discuss college and university rankings and the availability of relevant information from institutions of higher learning. The panel will feature Kevin Carey, Research and Policy Manager for Education Sector; Paul Glastris, Editor in Chief of The Washington Monthly; and Kenneth Terrell, Assistant Managing Editor of Education, U. S. News and World Report. The panel will be moderated by Cynthia G. Brown, Director of Education Policy at the Center for American Progress. Lunch will be served at 11:30 a.m. Sponsored by Campus Progress and Center for American Progress.
Please click here to RSVP.
For more information please contact speakers@campusprogress.org

Stand Up Against Poverty

2007-10-15T09:51:00.001-07:00

http://www.standagainstpoverty.org/ (signs are also in the elevators)

October 16 + 17, 2007STAND UP and SPEAK OUT is a worldwide call to take action against poverty and inequality and for the Millennium Development Goals. On October 16th and 17th, be a part of this growing movement of people who refuse to stay silent or seated in the face of poverty. Help us break the world record so we can break the record of broken promises.

Imperatives for a New Cuba Policy

2007-10-15T09:36:00.000-07:00

Polls indicate the great majority of Americans now see our 47-year old Cuba policy for the utter failure it is. Even the Cuban-American community, heretofore solidly behind the policy, is moving rapidly in the other direction. Polls taken in the congressional districts of Lincoln Diaz-Balart and Mario Diaz-Balart, two of the policy's most iron-clad advocates, show even the majority of their constituents to disagree – 66% expressing disagreement in Lincoln Diaz-Balart's district and 69% in Mario Diaz-Balart's. Truly a dramatic change.

Tuesday, October 16, 20078:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
University of California Washington Center1608 Rhode Island Ave, NWWashington, DC

To RSVP for this event, reply to this email: communications@newamerica.net with name, affiliation, and contact information.
If you have questions, call or email Liz Wu at (202) 986-2700 x315 or wu@newamerica.net

Career Night KICKOFF!

2007-10-15T09:15:00.000-07:00

Monday, Oct. 22nd
Beyond the Beltway: Making a Successful Transition from College to Work

presented by Lauren Payne, Career Advisor, UC San Diego’s Career Services Center

Being successful in their first job right after college can be a big concern for many graduating seniors, even for those with previous work experience. This session will cover strategies for success in your first year after college, such as managing your expectations and anticipating an employer’s expectations, workplace etiquette, making a strong impression, and building your professional networks.

Auditorium
6:30—8:00 (food will be served at 6:15)

UC Washington Center Forum

2007-10-15T08:01:00.000-07:00

MONDAY, October 15th 6:30pm-7:30pm

(Moved to the)AUDITORIUM Seating may be limited, so be on time!

Ambassador Ronald Neumann
Former United States Ambassador to Afghanistan and member of the American Academy of Diplomacy

Formerly a Deputy Assistant Secretary and twice an Ambassador (Algeria and Bahrain) Ronald E. Neumann has a combination of regional expertise and leadership ability that equip him to serve as Ambassador to the Islamic State of Afghanistan. Mr. Neumann, a career member of the Senior Foreign Service, served most recently in Baghdad from February 2004 with the Coalition Provisional Authority and then as Embassy Baghdad’s principal interlocutor with the Multinational Command, where he was deeply involved in coordinating the political part of military operations in Fallujah, Najaf, and other areas.
Prior to working in Iraq, he was Chief of Mission in Manama, Bahrain (2001-2004), where, as Ambassador, he worked on maintaining the balance between urging progress on democratic reform and expanding solid relations with a friendly monarchy that was beginning important political reforms. His previous Washington assignments include service as Deputy Director of the Office of Jordan, Lebanon, Syria and Palestinian Affairs; Staff Assistant in the NEA Bureau; and Political Officer in the Office of Southern European Affairs.
Ambassador Neumann speaks Arabic and French. He earned a B.A. in history and an M.A. in political science from the University of California at Riverside.

Free Food and Drinks will be served at 6:15 in the alcove gallery next to the auditorium

Computer News

2007-09-20T12:24:00.000-07:00

Every student is issued a computer user account and email address with a temporary password while at the UC Washington Center.

You must login to a lab computer to change your temporary password before you can access any websites which require a UCDC account login such as Computer Registration, Online Work order, or webmail.

Residential Services Welcome

2007-09-20T12:20:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the UC Washington Center. The Residential Services Office is located on the 4th floor. At our office you can pick-up packages, check your mailbox, rent DVD players, VCRs, and Board Games. We’re also here to try and make your stay in the Center as enjoyable as possible and to address residential concerns that may arise. Our office is open Monday-Thursday from 2:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Fridays, 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., and Saturdays from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Come by and say hello!

UC Center Forums

2007-09-19T12:24:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Washington! Every Monday, come check out the UC Washington Center Forum Lecture series! These seminars and workshops will expose you to hot topics and give you direct access to Ambassadors, members of Congress, and many top policy makers and journalists in the DC and California community.

September 24th—Auditorium:
Bryce Harlow Institute, Lobbying Panel: Chris Hansen, Group Executive Officer, State and National Initiatives, AARP Ed Ingle, Managing Director, Government Affairs, Microsoft
Melissa Laurenza, Associate, Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld

October 1st—Room A/B:
Fall Quarter Kick Off!

October 8th—Room A/B:
Roger Wilkins, George Mason
University professor, civil rights
activist, and journalist

October 22nd—Room A/B:
Career Night series kick off!
“Beyond the Beltway: Making a Successful Transition from College to Work” with Lauren Payne, Career Advisor, UC San Diego’s Career Services Center

October 29th—Room A/B:
Rajiv Chandraseakaran, Assist. Managing Editor, The Washington Post

For more details on Center Forums, see http://www.ucdc.edu/aboutus/centerforum.cfm.

UC Washington Center Congressional Fellowship

2007-09-19T12:21:00.000-07:00

Are you a UC Student working on Capitol Hill this fall!?

If the answer is yes, then you are eligible to apply for the UC Washington Center and the UC Office of Federal Government Relations UC Congressional Fellowship (UCCF) this fall.

As a congressional fellow, you will be provided with additional support (a financial award, training and networking opportunities) and the UCCF program will also help connect UC congressional fellows to issues that impact the UC system as a whole.

Applicants will be reviewed on their application essay questions, qualifications, experience and interviews.

To request an application, please email Roya Soleimani at: fellowship@ucdc.edu. Applications are due by no later than midnight on September 30th. In fairness to all applicants, late applications will not be accepted.

Message from Director Bruce Cain

2007-09-19T12:14:00.000-07:00

As the Director of UC’s Washington Center, I welcome all of you who are arriving for the Fall term. For those of you who do not know me, I am a Professor of Political Science at UC Berkeley as well as the Center’s Director. Like the professors at your home campuses, I have published many books and articles in my thirty years as an academic, but more than most, I have an enduring interest in experiential
political learning. My own career was very positively influenced by a year as a state redistricting consultant in the early eighties, and since that time, I have worked with governments at all levels and the media in various capacities. I know first hand how valuable political sector and nonprofit experience can be.

Working with student representatives, I instituted a number of changes to improve programming and the quality of life for undergraduates at the Center. I look forward to continuing that discussion and making further improvements. I want the UC undergraduate intern program to be as innovative and valuable as possible. You will see that the Center’s staff is very dedicated and skilled in their work. I urge you to participate in as many of the Center’s forums and workshops as possible so that you get the most you can out of your Washington experience.

In the meantime, get unpacked, poke your nose around town and get a sense of what goes on in the nation’s capital. Based on the experiences of students before you, you are about to have a wonderful time at the Center.

Bruce Cain

Introduction

2007-08-01T13:50:00.000-07:00

The postings that follow will provide you with information on a variety of subjects pertaining to life at the University of California's Washington Center and living in Washington DC. The goal is to inform you about what to expect while living and working in Washington and alleviate some of the concerns that you might have.