The Hoya Guide: Aug. 31, 2012

the guide

the weekly magazine for life on the hilltop

august 31, 2012

unpaid internships the price of free labor

Alum Brings Lobster Shop To Georgetown G4

From Homeless To the Hilltop

G6

Lawless: An Action Flick With a Brain

G14

hard-working this issue 8 young, and free lifestyle 3 food&drink 10 arts & 12 entertainment luke’s lobster | center stage

matchbox | burleith bartender

fall movie preview | lawless

followus

The recent recession and a surfeit of qualified college graduates have contributed to a highly competitive job market, making college students feel additional pressure to bolster their resumes with internships. Many of these are unpaid, though their legality is questionable. Some see the experience of an unpaid internship as insurance for future pay, as the work can be applicable to future jobs, and references can help make connections. Others struggle to afford the burden an unpaid position can place on them. In all, this collegiate trend leaves students, universities and employers in a tough position.

COVER PHOTO BY SARI FRANKEL

soundbite

TWITTER TRENDING NOW @TheHoyaGuide

Follow the guide on Twitter and stay up to date on Hilltop events, the best food in town and the most amusing entertainment news. You can also catch our exclusive online content.

the guide Sarah Kaplan, Executive Editor Steven Piccione, Managing Editor Leonel De Velez, Photo Editor Emory Wellman, Layout Editor Emily Perkins, Copy Chief Zachary Gordon, Deputy Guide Editor Sheena Karkal, Deputy Guide Editor Charlie Long, Deputy Guide Editor Bethany Imondi, Contributing Guide Editor Sari Frankel, Deputy Photo Editor Zoe Bertrand, Deputy Layout Editor Jessica Natinsky, Deputy Layout Editor Kyle Hunter, Deputy Layout Editor Phoebe Lett, Deputy Copy Editor Hunter Main, Deputy Copy Editor Jamie Slater, Deputy Copy Editor

Connor Gregoire, Editor-in-Chief Victoria Edel, Guide Editor Corrections and Clarifications If you have a comment or question about the fairness or accuracy of a story, contact Executive Editor Sarah Kaplan at (202) 687-3415 or email executive@thehoya.com.

General Information The Guide is published each week during the academic year with the exception of holiday and exam periods. Address all correspondence to: The Hoya Georgetown University Box 571065 Washington, D.C. 20057-1065 The writing, articles, pictures, layout and format are the responsibility of The Hoya and do not necessarily represent the views of the administration, faculty or students of Georgetown University.

Signed columns and cartoons represent the opinions of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the editorial position of The Hoya.

Georgetown University subscribes to the principle of responsible freedom of expression for student editors.

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SARI FRANKEL/the hoya

ring by spring MeaganKelly

Is the “real world” actually like “The Real World” on MTV? Because if so, I decided I’m going to be the uptight one who gets upset with all the “funny business” going on in the hot tub in the living room.

omglol :/ :) :l :P saywhat?

A SPACE ODDITY will.i.am’s single will be the first played on Mars. When a track drops on a deserted planet, and nobody is around to hear it, is it still bad?

GIRL POWER An all-female version of The Expendables is in the works, sure to give women everywhere another reason to feel inadequate.

CANADIAN COUPLE Avril Lavigne and Nickelback’s Chad Kroeger are engaged. If only it were 2002 and somebody still cared.

C

MOTHERLY LOVE Sarah Palin is refocusing her PR skills by managing Bristol’s new reality show. She proudly says that Bristol was “the original Teen Mom.”

“

I’m still just as horny as I’ve ever been.

— Betty White on turning 90.

”

lifestyle

Editors’ Picks TAYLOR SWIFT

SURI’S BURN BOOK

Let’s be clear: Taylor Swift has been a big deal for a while, but she’s having a moment right now. Between her new single, “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” — which, by the way, is the fastest-selling digital single in history — and her whirlwind Cape Cod romance with Connor Kennedy, we can’t stop talking about her, love her or hate her.

This tumblr’s been around for a year, but it’s picking up steam. Allie Hagan, a 25-year-old living in D.C., adopted the voice of Suri Cruise, the most fashionable six-year-old in America, to critique other, less fabulous celebrity children. She’s got a crush on Kingston Rossdale and a rivalry with Harper Beckham. Hagan’s book of the same name comes out Sept. 4.

SUPERFICIAL.COM

ALLACCESS.COM

THE WASHINGTON NATIONALS

BLEACHERREPORT.COM

“SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE”

The Nationals haven’t exactly been blessed with success since moving to the District in 2005. But if you were away this summer, you may have missed their recent surge to the top of their division. Now, these games are some of the hottest tickets in town. Sunday through Wednesdays, tickets are half price with a college ID. We’re a little obsessed with the handsome 19-year-old phenom Bryce Harper.

appyhour evernote

 price: free Evernote allows you to save everything from class notes and assignment lists to music and videos from your favorite artists, all in one app. You can access your data from nearly any device, be it an iPhone, Android, Mac or PC. Use this app to organize your thoughts. You can store information in many forms, and also link them to each other if they fall under the same topic.

FOX.COM

the apps that will make you love your favorite gadgets even more

NextBus D.C. Lite



price: free

If you’re someone who avoids public transportation due to your lack of directional and/or planning skills, look no further. This app does the work for you, listing the closest Metrobuses and where they’re going. You won’t have to waste time waiting at a bus stop, and you can figure out arrival times and check out route information. This app also offers information about the Metro, making your trip planning easier.

Although it’s in its ninth season, this reality show contest for America’s best dancer still manages to keep things fresh and interesting. Imagine “American Idol,” but with contestants that are actually talented and judges that are actually knowledgeable. The dancers make the women’s Olympic gymnastics team seem inflexible. If you’re not watching, you’re missing out on one of the few quality reality competitions.

SHEENA KARKAL Hoya Staff Writer

My Weekly Budget



price: $0.99 It can be easy to spend more than you should in D.C., especially in the Georgetown neighborhood.

Keep track of what you earn and spend with this useful moneymanaging app. Give yourself a target for the week, and if you overor underspend one week, you have the option to compensate the next. You can even see your spending history and the places you spend the most money.

8.31.12 | the guide | 3

lifestyle Riding Waves of Success Alum Expands Business into Georgetown Mairead reilly Hoya Staff Writer

A SEA OF SUCCESS Luke Holden (MSB ’07) shares his love for seafood with his Maine-inspired chain of restaurants.

L

iving in the D.C. metro area, you may be under the impression that the only way to satisfy a shellfish craving (doesn’t everyone get those?) is with a big pile of Baltimore crabs.

No longer. Georgetown’s newest restaurant is adding lobsters to the mix.

Luke’s Lobster recently opened at 1211 Potomac St., the previous home of Philadelphia Pizza Co. — more commonly known as Philly P’s — and Go Fresh. The restaurant is the brainchild of Luke Holden (MSB ’07), a native of Maine. The Georgetown location is the

4 | the guide | 8.31.12

eighth of Holden’s successful young business and joins sweetgreen and LivingSocial in the ranks of alumni entrepreneurial endeavors that have come to serve the Georgetown community.

After graduating from the McDonough School of Business with a double major in finance and management, Holden followed the same route as many of his peers, taking a job in investment banking.

“I did that for three years,” Holden said, “when I decided to start a side project, something I was a little bit more passionate in.”

As a foundation for building his business, Holden used what he’d learned in professor William Finnerty’s entrepreneurship class during his time at Georgetown. “[The class] was a great opportunity for me to learn how to put together a business model,” Holden said. “[We worked on] marketing, logistics, product creation. … It really walked you through some of the headers that you need to fill out when you’re thinking of starting a business.”

Holden’s first store opened in the East Village in New York City in 2010, and he juggled his new business with his day job for eight months. However, the great success of his first location spurred Holden to look for opportunities to grow, and he eventually signed a lease for an Upper East Side store and transitioned to working on Luke’s Lobster full time.

Five more locations and one food truck later, Holden has brought his business back to his roots in Georgetown.

“We’ve been hoping [and] looking around in this area for years now,” he said. “It’s hard to find a space that’s got a footprint that is manageable for our concept. This is kind of a perfect feel for us.”

Despite the speed with which Holden’s business has grown, each location presents its own set of challenges. Luke’s Lobster’s Manhattan food truck, the Nauti Mobile, has been particularly trying for Holden.

“It’s insanely difficult to manage,” he explained, noting the animosity of “brick-and-mortar” businesses, the ire of city police and the fickle nature of weather.

“All of those factors make it very, very hard to build any type of consistency, and when you can’t build consistency, it’s hard to build a good consumer base.”

He thinks it’s been worth it, though; the Nauti recently topped Zagat’s New York food truck rankings for the second year in a row.

Last Thursday’s grand opening on Potomac Street was the culmination of a summer’s worth of hard work for

Holden and his team, which includes his brother and managing partner, Bryan Holden, and Vice President Ben Conniff, who was one of the first to get on board with Luke’s Lobster. After success in New York, they planned their stores for the DC area, working quickly to open them, “We signed the lease maybe two and a half months ago,” Holden recalled.

“We were opening Bethesda right around the same time, so the space sat dormant for about a month.”

Once the focus transitioned to Georgetown, though, work moved at a quick pace. “[The team was] putting in 14-hour days, probably 30 to 40 days consecutively,” Holden said.

SHORT AND SWEET Luke’s Lobster may offer only a few dishes, but it compensates in quality.

lifestyle Bringing the space up to Luke’s Lobster standards wasn’t an easy task, either.

“Every time we took a layer [of paint] off, we found a little bit more sludge. We ended up taking it back down to the beams, just really cleaning it up and making sure that it was — well, certainly food safe — and visually appealing.”

If you’ve visited the Penn Quarter or Bethesda locations, the menu at the Potomac Street store will be familiar, Holden said. “We’ll have the full menu that we have at the other stores, so lobster rolls, crab rolls, shrimp rolls, chowders, bisques.”

The offerings are simple, prioritizing the ingredients and the authenticity of the preparation. “What we’re really trying to do is just offer folks a high-quality, quick-service offering at a good price,” Holden said.

In developing the Luke’s Lobster menu, Holden focused on sourcing directly from Maine, particularly supporting local fishermen with whom he developed a relationship through his family’s seafood processing business. The connection to Maine goes beyond seafood, though — Luke’s Lobsters offers Maine sodas, Maine buns and Maine ice cream, to name a few.

Holden looks for sustainable and environmentally friendly ways to support the economy of his home state. “We end up selling the seafood to a chowder [and] bisque company back in Maine, and they make our offerings in small batches and sell it back to us.” The store itself is also built using Maine construction materials: The floors, tabletops and ceiling beams are all made of reclaimed lumber from the Pine Tree State.

Looking to the future, Holden is considering bringing his authentic Maine product to cities farther afield, such as Chicago and Los Angeles. But for now, he’s comfortable where he is. “New York and D.C. have been great markets for us,” he said. “There’s a lot more opportunity to continue to serve those markets, so that’s really where our focus is.”

The success of Luke’s Lobster over the past three years would seem to indicate a bright future for the Potomac Street location, and Holden is hoping for the support of the Georgetown community. “We’ve got a handful of Hoyas working with us,” he said. “It’s ALL PHOTOS MAIREAD REILLY/THE HOYA really, really special to come back to this neighborhood, particularly KITCHEN TABLE DECOR Maine-themed knick knacks pepper the restaurant and this spot.” give it a homey, welcoming feel.

pardon my french

Rock Out With My Guac Out: An Ode to Burritos

M

oving from Southern California to the District last year wasn’t easy — schlepping an entire life’s worth of stuff in four suitcases, moving into my freshman dorm during a hurricane, learning that in D.C. any reported chance of rain means there will be water falling from the sky — but I adapted and learned to never leave my room without an umbrella.

These things came pretty naturally, but adapting to a life without good Mexican food didn’t. You might try to argue that there is high-quality Mexican food in Georgetown, whether at Chipotle, Qdoba or any of the higher-end restaurants near campus, but if you did, I would politely inform you that you’re wrong. These are all overpriced imitations of the heavenly original that, in my highly esteemed and educated opinion, can only be found in my hometown.

I grew up in San Diego, 30 minutes from the border. There were kids in my high school class who had lived in Tijuana, Mexico — known as TJ — for most of their lives

and moved across the border with but, to be quite honest, I will eat any their families to attend school in the burrito as long as it is wrapped in United States. Seeing a news report a flour tortilla and contains guacaabout the discovery of a new drug- mole — a subject I can talk about for smuggling tunnel across the border days, so don’t even get me started. is just as commonplace as seeing a However, of all the burritos I have traffic report. If you don’t have at tried, there’s one true pinnacle of least a basic grasp of the Spanish burrito-dom: the California burrito. language, you have very little hope Known in its truest form only in San of securing even an Diego County, a Calientry-level job. fornia burrito is a What I’m trying carne asada burrito to say is that San Diwith a twist. Apart ego and Mexico are from the typical inconnected by more gredients — meat, NicoleJarvis than just geogracheese, guacamole, phy. Much of our salsa, sour cream local culture comes from our lovely — the California burrito has the vecinos to the south. And, of course, startling and alluring addition of much of our local cuisine has been French fries. French fries? In a burlearned from these masters of Mexi- rito? Yes. A million times yes.

Whenever I return home, my can deliciousness.

Living in an environment where first stop is Ortega’s Place for the there are more — cheap — Mexican burrito-induced coma that can only restaurants than Starbucks loca- come from eating one of their contions has meant that I have very coctions, which are the size of your different tastes but strong opinions face. It is a truly magical food expeabout my burritos. I prefer carne rience. Trying to explain the logic asada — a burrito made with steak — behind these behemoth creations

to those who have not experienced their deliciousness is difficult, but ask any of my friends and they will verify that I talk about them an embarrassing amount. I have actually had dreams about these burritos.

Thus far, being in Washington, D.C., has been an amazing opportunity to try cuisine from around the world and expand my sheltered palate, but when it comes to my beloved Mexican food, I have had to make sacrifices. I have made do with the occasional trip to Chipotle and the abuse of chips and guacamole at Leo’s. While none of it can compare to what I get at home, I can’t seem to survive without it.

Much as New Yorkers can’t survive without their bagels, as Kentuckians can’t survive without their bourbon and as Philadelphians can’t survive without their cheesesteaks, I truly can’t survive without my Mexican food.

Nicole Jarvis is a sophomore in the College. PARDON MY FRENCH appears every other Friday in the guide.

8.31.12 | the guide | 5

lifestyle

centerstage

WITH A LITTLE HELP Once Homeless, Now Fighting Back

SHEENa karkal Hoya Staff Writer

Jimmy Ramirez (COL ’15) is nothing short of awe inspiring. With an infectious smile and welcoming attitude, he commits himself entirely to his endeavors, which include a summer internship with the California Homeless Youth Project. For Jimmy, helping homeless youth is about making sure that nobody else goes through what he went through. As a junior in high school, emotional and financial hardships left Jimmy and his family without a home and nearly without hope.

Have you always known you would pursue a career in social service, or did your experiences push you in that direction?

As a government major and justice and peace studies minor, I’ve planned to somehow enter public service. I think it’s definitely based on my experiences. I’ve been so blessed with everything that I’ve gotten, and in a way I feel like I owe it to the people in my community who didn’t get the same chance. I have to make them proud for letting me crash on their couches and feeding me. They’re always in the back of my head.

SPOTLIGHT What’s on your iPod now?

Katy Perry, always and forever.

Favorite quote?

John F. Kennedy said, “Do not pray for an easier life; pray to be a stronger man.” Is that cheesy?

Favorite class?

I really enjoyed my [“Problem of God”] and [“Justice and Peace Studies”] classes. And Maria Donoghue in the biology department — she actually was amazing. She’s my favorite professor; she invited me over for Thanksgiving dinner.

Favorite food?

MEXICAN. All caps.

Favorite TV show?

“Weeds.”

6 | the guide | 8.31.12

How do you think your experiences affect your presence here at Georgetown?

I’m very faithful — I’m Catholic — and being at Georgetown with the whole idea of men and women for others is truly amazing. I mean, it’s like God put me here for a reason. I definitely lost faith during the most difficult times, but faith helped me rehabilitate and move forward.

What helped you get past the difficult times in addition to your faith?

My economics teacher took me in and literally paid for all my college applications [and] my SATs and guided me through the whole process. … He is a huge role model for me. [And] my mom … always said academics come first, no matter the situation. I mean, in my whole family, she was the only one who went to school, to night school. She would always say, “Look, people have it worse out there. Don’t feel sorry for yourself.”

Was it hard for you to leave your family and friends to come to Georgetown?

Back home, my friends are like my family. They’re the couches I crashed on. It’s weird coming to a place with such affluence and prestige and being “that kid.” But it’s been so rewarding and welcoming at the same time, and I wouldn’t change anything.

How do you identify with the label “homeless” and the connotations it carries?

People imagine the kid begging for food on the side of the street. I wasn’t on the street, but I was homeless. I hated the term in the beginning. … I also absolutely hate the connotation. It doesn’t mean I didn’t have a childhood or a loving family. I had a home for a good time. So it’s frustrating, but I have

REBECCA GOLDBERG/THE HOYA

MEN AND WOMEN FOR OTHERS Georgetown’s faith and community plays an instrumental role in Jimmy Ramirez’s (COL ’15) fight againt homelessness. more to offer than just being known for being the homeless kid who went to Georgetown.

How do you feel about the available resources for teens in a similar situation?

In California, it’s just not widely understood or recognized. And that’s why the organization I’m with is pursuing legislation. The period of time and severity of my situation wasn’t comparable to other people’s situations, and I need to advocate for the kids who can’t advocate for themselves. Because I was valedictorian, class president, student body president, people took notice when I stopped coming to class and acted differently. Luckily, someone asked me [about it]. The number of kids at my [high] school that are homeless is really high, but it’s just not recognized.

It’s like they’re invisible.

Were you always open about being homeless?

The reason I can talk about it now is to inspire people to take whatever situation they are in, whatever oppression, whatever was put on them, and to challenge it. It’s going to be hard, but you can get over it and kick ass and make a difference so nobody else has

to go through what you went through.

That’s basically what drives me. … And I’ve decided that I’m just going to own the term. It’s not going to define me. …

There’s no label on my forehead.

How does this tie into your current involvement in the California Homeless Youth Project?

The place I’m working now is incredible. … I interned [there] three days a week in the summer, and now … [they’re] hiring me on as a consultant.

It’s weird to think that two years ago, I was homeless, and now I’m consulting and the campaign developer for a statewide plan to end youth homelessness.

What advice would you give to friends and family who know someone who is homeless? What is the best way to reach out?

Help them and educate them on their rights. Don’t ever feel ashamed to ask for help. I mean, for me, a bottle of laundry detergent was incredibly empowering. On a humanistic level, if you pass someone on M Street who is asking for money, just smile. Don’t make them feel that they are inferior to you. They’re not less of a human being because of their circumstances.

lifestyle ring by spring

Ringing in Senior Year With Anxiety and Flair

S

enior year: the last hurrah of the college experience, the time to enjoy one last year with those friends you’ve called family for the past three and, of course, the time to figure out what you’re going to do with your life — or, in my case, at least start thinking about it.

I have at last returned from the most incredible six months in Istanbul, Turkey. Yes, that’s right, adoring friends, fans and family. That cheesing mug you see near the byline of this column is none other than your favorite grandma from THE “Grandma Goes to Turkey,” last semester’s critically acclaimed travel column.

Why isn’t this year’s column called “Grandma Continues to Go to College”?

Well, because seriously ... who wants to see their grandma in college? It just doesn’t have the same exoticism.

Also, Turkey changed me. I went to an Avicii concert while I was there and wore glow-in-the-dark ears on my head.

So yeah. I feel young again.

This year, I’m getting real, dealing with the hard-hitting issue affecting us all: our imminent unemployment. “But

Grandma ... I mean, Meagan” — I know. the time I leave campus and the coopIt’s going to take some getting used to — erative neighborhood community of “what is this ‘Ring by Spring’ business all Georgetown (lolz), I hope to be a gainfully employed, self-sufficient, respected about?” asked all of you, I’m sure.

Well, first of all, thank you for the female in the working world.

A number of things can be added to constructive dialogue. The term “ring by spring” is often thrown around schools that list of aspirations but are not nec(generally in the South and in predomi- essarily required. These include having nantly Christian universities) by young Tina Fey casually stumble across my colladies and men who live, breathe and umn and decide I’m the missing link cry over the dream of being proposed to in the “30 Rock” writing staff (not that there’s anything missby spring of senior year ing, Tina), owning a dog, so they can assume their finding an affordable yet domestic duties promptchic apartment in either ly after graduation.

Brooklyn, San Francisco Now, I know what or Adams Morgan and you’re all thinking. “MeaMeaganKelly courting a gentleman gan, are you even dating who resembles Adam anyone?” To you, I say ... shut your mouth. You don’t know my Brody, has the same passionate hatred life. But more so than that, you think I for country music as mine and shares don’t seem to be the “domestic” type. Yes, my free-thinking liberal ideologies (ReI know. The only thing “made” about my publicans need not apply).

The reality of the situation is that bed is the veggie quesadilla sitting on it.

So what I’m looking to do with this there are a lot of questions that face a column is take my loyal readers on my woman upon her graduation from coljourney to independent womanhood. lege and entrance into the “real world.”

(The male/female demographic of my First: Is the “real world” actually like readership just shifted drastically.) By “The Real World” on MTV? Because if

A Steady Ride Over Rough Terrain

F

ew people know how to respond when tragedy strikes.

Many mourn, cry and try to move on. Most people, however, don’t respond by organizing a cross-country bike trip.

But three Georgetown students did just that this summer to support the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society in honor of their friend David Henry, a student at The College of William and Mary, whose mother succumbed to B-cell lymphoma in 2011.

The society helps families like David’s afford treatment and care for leukemia and lymphoma patients by covering things like copays for medications, medical bills and insurance.

This past summer, David and his brother Jonathan, along with two Georgetown friends, Carlos Saldago (MSB ’14) and Guadalupe Fernandez (SFS ’14), rode from San Francisco through Chicago to Yorktown, Va., camping most nights.

The journey included stops at both Georgetown and William and Mary.

David named the trip Momma Henry’s Trek Across America and began planning the trip in 2011

while his mother was in remission.

It didn’t take long for Saldago and Fernandez to jump on board with the idea. Coming from a workingmiddle class family in Chicago, the Henrys found the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society a great help through their mother’s battle with cancer as medical costs grew.

The actual funding for the trip didn’t come from donations; the group decided to fund the excursion completely on their own.

“We wanted to do it honestly, with all the money going to the organization. … [Using our own money] committed us more to the trip,” Fernandez said.

They wanted the money that was raised in honor of their journey to go right to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

The ride wasn’t an easy one, with the bikers often spending up to eight hours a day on the road. With little to no cycling experience, they struggled to get through the tough mountain terrain of the West.

“We had to climb at least one mountain a day. … We thought most of the country was flat — it isn’t,” Fernandez said. “It was hard.

We were doing it on our own.”

They found the experience mentally tough as well, with little to occupy them other than their iPods and the scenery during those long rides. However, they did receive a fair amount of help along the way. Although they camped most days, they also used the website warmshowers.org, which connects travelers with people willing to open their homes so the travelers can clean themselves. “People were nice,” Fernandez said. “Some of them even cooked for us.”

The group’s efforts, though long and arduous, are paying off.

Though having exceeded their initial $10,000 goal, they hope to do more to help the society. They raised money through fundraisers in their hometown of Chicago and via word of mouth. The group operated a Facebook page with frequent updates to help spread the word and motivate others to donate to the cause.

The team is still accepting donations, which can be made through their website, mommahenrystrek. org.

so, I decided I’m going to be the uptight one who gets upset with all the “funny business” going on in the hot tub in the living room.

But actually, women need to make a lot of big decisions at a young age. We have science working against us, that damn “biological clock,” not to mention that our brains are smaller than men’s.

Oh wait ... I forgot. That’s complete bull.

But still, we have to ask ourselves questions earlier than most men would. Do I ever want to be married? Would I move if Adam Brody asked me to? Should I put my career first or his? Which outfit for my job interview would attract the most attention to my intelligence?

These things actually inform the short-term decisions I’ll be making come springtime. And that, my friends, is a frightening thought. I am a soon-to-be-21-year-old woman who doesn’t have any of the answers to these questions. Except for the Adam Brody one. That’s a no-brainer.

Meagan Kelly is a senior in the College. RING BY SPRING appears every other Friday in the guide.

ZACH GORDON Hoya Staff Writer

chris bien/the hoya Courtesy of Guadalupe Fernandez

PHOTO FINISH Guadalupe Fernandez (SFS ’14) poses in front of Healy after completing her trek.

The new normal: work without a wage steven piccione Hoya Staff Writer

D

avid Lizza (COL ’15) and Basil Bastaki (SFS ’15) had yet to complete their first year at Georgetown when they began searching for summer internships in D.C.

This summer, Lizza, an 18-year-old hailing from Summit, N.J., stayed on campus and worked on Capitol Hill for Rep. Leonard Lance (R-N.J.). Bastaki, a 19-year-old Kuwaiti native pursuing a degree in international politics, interns at the John W. Kluge Center at the Library of Congress, where he studies microfilms. While Lizza and Bastaki each worked over 30 hours per week at their respective jobs, neither earned any money.

Facing a struggling economy and an increasingly competitive job market, more and more college students are willingly working for free. According to a 2011 study by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, more than half of college graduates held at least one internship, about 48 percent of which were unpaid. In 1992, only 17 percent of students had completed any kind of internship before graduating, according to a study conducted at Northwestern University.

“I feel like everyone at Georgetown, or maybe at every university, has a certain pressure to get as many accomplishments under your belt [as possible],” Collin Segura (COL ’15), who spent his summer

interning alongside Bastaki at the Kluge Center, said. “Probably part of [why I took the internship] was the desire to be competitive.”

Bastaki was also inspired to find an internship, even one with no financial compensation, by the need he feels to separate himself from the pack.

“I don’t know how I’ll compete,” he said. “That’s the main motivation, that fear of competition.”

But the costs of these unpaid internships can be high. Students must often pay for housing, transportation and even new work clothes without the support of a weekly paycheck or stipend.

In some cases, unpaid internships become prohibitively expensive. Segura said he couldn’t have interned at the Kluge Center had he not been able to live in free housing offered by the Georgetown University Student Association’s Summer Fellows Program.

The GUSA fellowship allows undergraduate students who qualify for needbased financial aid to live in Georgetown dorms, which would otherwise cost nearly $3,000, for free over the summer. But

Sari Frankel/THE HOYA

NEW KIDS ON THE HILL Lizza (COL ’15) and Bastaki (SFS ’15) were quick to snag summer jobs.

GUSA’s program is highly selective; this year only 11 students were chosen to receive grants out of about 40 applicants.

“Expanding the program is always something we would love to do,” Summer Fellows Program Director Justin Pinn (COL ’13) said. “But it should be noted that we do need money. …

With the cost of housing, that’s a lot of money for 11 fellows.”

Despite the costs, STEVEN PICCIONE/THE HOYA Segura said he did earn something from his internship.

“The internship provides valuable experience, which in itself is a form of compensation,” he said.

Segura isn’t the only Georgetown student who looks at it that way. Glenda Dieuveille (COL ’14) gave up a paying job to pursue an unpaid opportunity on the Hill.

Dieuveille spent her sophomore year working for Phonathon, a branch of the university’s annual fund, calling alumni and parents to ask FILE PHOTO victoria edel/THE HOYA for donations. The job wasn’t scintillat- A TOUGH DECISION Glenda Dieuveille (COL ’14), like many Hoyas, left a paying job at the university in order to spend her fall semester interning on the Hill. ing, but it paid $10 an fered something more attractive than an can speak Creole. I got to practice working for it. It was OK being home with my parhour, enough to cover with [constituents], particularly on issues ents, so I didn’t really have to pay bills,” meals at restaurants and other extrane- hourly wage. ous expenses.

“I wanted to find something that had to like immigration, visa problems. I was ex- Dieuveille said. “I could afford to work “I didn’t enjoy it very much. The staff do with something that I want to do after posed to a whole array of problems that I unpaid, but some people can’t.” was great, but it wasn’t fulfilling work for school, and [my internship] was related.”

The legality of unpaid internships, didn’t know [about] before,” Dieuveille said. me, even though I was getting paid for it,” During her time working without pay at Able to stay at home in Miami over the which have been labeled by some as Dieuveille said.

Wilson’s local offices in her hometown of summer, Dieuveille had no living expenses, exploitative, is a murky subject. The But at the end of August, she was of- Miami, Fla., this summer, Dieuveille found but she recognizes the trouble that others U.S. Department of Labor’s Fair Labor fered an internship at Rep. Frederica Wil- that working with the congresswoman fit have in trying to manage unpaid intern- Standards Act — the federal law responson’s (D-Fla.) D.C. office, after working for well with her academic and career inter- ships. sible for regulating labor conditions and the congresswoman in Miami during the ests, spurring her decision to continue this “That’s the rough thing about intern- wages — outlines six criteria that must summer. Dieuveille decided to give up unpaid work during the school year. ships, [like] government, Hill internships be met in order for a company to legally “I’m Haitian-American [like Wilson], so I where you don’t really get compensated employ a person without paying him. her paying job for an internship that of-

These range from requiring that those employees receive on-the-job training to a stipulation that the company “derive no immediate advantage” from the work of the unpaid employee.

“The internship experience is for the benefit of the intern,” the website of the U.S. Department of Labor FLSA Wage and Hour Division states.

Three lawsuits filed in the last year challenge that statement. The law firm Outten & Golden LLP has filed class action complaints on behalf of unpaid interns at the Hearst Corporation, Fox Searchlight Pictures and talk show “Charlie Rose”, alleging that the companies violated federal and state labor laws by failing to pay wages to interns who did the work of full employSari Frankel/THE HOYA ees.

HELPING HAND Collin Segura (COL ’15) was “Unpaid interns are becoming the mod- able to afford an internship, thanks to GUSA. ern-day equivalent of entry-level employees, except that employers are not paying there. … The new [labor law] isn’t being put them for the many hours they work,” the into effect at all uniformly.”

Along with the Georgetown College firm’s complaint against Fox Searchlight from Sept. 2011 reads. “In misclassifying Academic Council, which includes all of many of its workers as unpaid interns, the deans of the College, Ciani-Dausch Fox Searchlight has denied them the ben- created a one-credit internship course unefits that the law affords to employees der interdisciplinary studies called “Col… most crucially, the right to earn a fair lege Internship Experience,” which students can take in conjunction with their day’s wage for a fair day’s work.”

Segura also believes that the line be- work. Students enrolled in the course are tween intern and full employee — as far matched with a professor who serves as as the work required of each is concerned their adviser. Students may have to submit papers or other projects demonstrat— has been blurred.

“More and more, it seems like students ing what they’ve gained from their employment in order are being asked to complete the to do things that “I feel like everyone at course and receive people are paid for credit for an in— for free,” he said.

Georgetown, or maybe ternship. The McAll three of the at every university, has a Donough School Outten & Golden of Business has a certain pressure to get as cases are ongoing, but in the meanmany accomplishments un- similar one-credmanagement it time, companies der your belt [as possible].” course designed are seeking new internships. ways to demon— Collin Segura (COL ’15) forThe university strate that interns hopes that these are the ones beneprograms can fitting from the internship experience. According to Jessica ensure that students who are deriving Ciani-Dausch, a dean in the College, it’s academic benefit from their internships become increasingly common for com- are rewarded for it, according to Cianipanies to mandate that students receive Dausch.

“If there’s academic content that gets academic credit from their respective universities for their work. For example, Gawk- paired with something that you might er Media, The Washington Post and Time have learned … that’s what we can give Warner Cable all mandate such programs credit for,” she said.

Despite the academic, financial and for their employees.

“The press for credit is because they’re even legal ramifications, internships have not paying the intern, and the labor agen- become well established at Georgetown, cies press the employers,” she said. “There as much an institution as drinking at The are federal labor laws against this. The Tombs or sitting in John Carroll’s lap. In student has to be earning some kind of 2010, 83 percent of respondents to the Cabenefit, and that’s where the credit issue reer Center’s senior survey said they had interned during their time on the Hilltop. comes in.”

Even so, she is suspicious about compa- Last year, that number jumped to 86 pernies’ new enthusiasm for providing aca- cent.

According to Lizza, this is a permanent demic credit in exchange for unpaid work.

“My first instinct was that this is kind shift. of shady,” Ciani-Dausch, who has a law “Internships are part of the college exdegree, said. “It’s like the Wild West out perience now,” he said.

food&drink Exceptional Pizza Served Piping Hot bethany imondi Hoya Staff Writer

 MATCHBOX

713 H St. NW cuisine: American price: $$$$

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espite the dozens of pizza orders it handles a day, Matchbox is not a pizzeria. Rather, the restaurant considers itself a bistro that just so happens to have a brick oven perfect for baking up blistered and crispy pizzas with fresh ingredients.

Located not far from Verizon Center on H Street, the original Matchbox is housed on three floors of a former Chinese grocery store. There are also sites in the Capitol Hill neighborhood and in Rockville, Md. All three restaurants offer the same menu, which combines elegant bistro fare with more down-home, simple dishes.

In the Chinatown restaurant, diners can sit at the bar and choose from a wide beer selection, ranging from local to Belgian drafts, or they can elect to eat at one of the tables.

The smell from the burning oven permeates the restaurant, luring patrons’ eyes towards the pizza section almost immediately after receiving the menu.

Though tempted on a recent visit to ask for a vegetarian version of the prosciutto and Mission Black fig pizza with gorgonzola, roasted garlic and honey, I decided on the oven-dried tomato and fresh mozzarella pizza. Unlike a traditional pizza sauce, the

pie came with a chunky tomato base with a zesty bite. Hints of red pepper, garlic and sea salt infused the sauce, a nice complement to the creamy puddles of mozzarella that dotted the pie. Since sliced mozzarella has high moisture content, cheese often weighs down a pizza. Matchbox avoids this problem by using just the right amount of cheese to retain the crust’s crisp texture.

Matchbox knows what it’s doing in the crust department. Baked in a 900-degree brick oven, all of Matchbox’s pizzas are based on a thinly spread dough. The high temperatures bake the pies in a matter of minutes, giving them a crispy texture. Although the heat can produce black spots on the bottom and edges of the crust, the char is not a spot to avoid but rather a bite that elevates the pizza’s smoky flavors.

As I enjoyed the oven-roasted twist on a classic Margherita pizza, my friends also devoured their selections. The chicken pesto pizza arrived at the table a beauty in green, composed of homemade pesto sauce, mozzarella and herb-roasted chicken. While pesto is traditionally an oil-based sauce, making it feel lighter than a cream-based sauce, its combination with the cheese made for a

blogbites

YELP.COM

PERFECTLY BALANCED Expect an even spread of ingredients with every pizza. rather rich topping. However, like my pizza, the cheese did not overwhelm and allowed the flavors of the herbs in both the chicken and the pesto to shine through.

Spicy homemade meatballs topped the third pizza served at our table. Echoing the flavors in the tomato sauce, notes of oregano and red pepper elevated the rich taste of the meatballs, while the garlic puree added sweetness. Once again, it beautifully concluded with the perfect amount of mozzarella. Since most things are better with bacon, the only thing that could have made the pie better was more of the crispy bacon.

In addition to pizza, Matchbox is known for its sliders. Diners can order three, six or nine, and no visit to the restaurant is complete without eating at least one handcraft-

ed angus beef slider. The mini burgers come on a toasted brioche roll with a mountain of crispy onion straws. Gouda, mozzarella or gorgonzola can be melted onto the burgers, but the cheese almost distracts.

Matchbox’s pizzas and sliders might be what it’s best known for, but other dishes are worth trying. The salmon is seared and served on a creamy bed of cheddar grits with bacon-wrapped green beans, and the beef short ribs are braised to accompany wasabi mashed potatoes, fried brussel sprouts and a jus reduction. Even the fish and chips becomes fancy with panko-crusted haddock and Yukon gold potato wedges.

The spacious dining room, comfortable atmosphere and reasonable prices make the food at Matchbox worthy of a taste.

a weekly review of the blogosphere’s best recipes

giant s’mores-stuffed chocolate chip cookies

lemon poppy seed pancakes

smells-like-home.com Already missing those wonderful summer campfires but longing for the delightful fall sensation of warm chocolate chip cookies?

Well, we have a solution for you with this easy and delicious recipe that combines these two delicious treats.

pickycook.com These pancakes are a light and fun alternative to that muffin you were going to have for breakfast, and they’re also healthier! Just combine all of the ingredients and pour onto a butter-brushed pan. Top with strawberries and brag to all your friends about your amazing culinary skills. smells-like-home.com

10 | the guide | 8.31.12

pickycook.com

If You Can’t Handle Heat, Stay Out of This Kitchen emory wellman Hoya Staff Writer

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ucked in a corner on 18th Street, The Regent is easy to miss — I almost walked into the neighboring restaurant by accident. My friends and I went on a Friday night and were seated quickly indoors. Outdoor dining is also available, but unfortunately, so is oppressive heat during a D.C. summer.

Although the restaurant was initially empty and silent, as our meal progressed, the noise level in the restaurant steadily increased and it became clear that The Regent is quite the gathering spot.

The jury is still out on whether the dim lighting was an attempt at mood lighting or simply the result of malfunctioning light fixtures. Either way, it was slightly overkill, especially when we tried to read the bizarrely shaped menus, which resembled two boards of patterned plywood fastened together.

Our waiter was prompt and brought the food steaming hot, but I got the distinct impression that we were bothering him, which was slightly unsettling. Thankfully, his dogged service made up for his apparent attitude.

Once the food arrived, my experience differed from that of my dining companions. I ordered basil fried rice with chicken. I had been warned that it was spicy. Generally, I enjoy spice and have a good tolerance, so I assumed I would be fine, especially because the rice would surely include vegetables other than hot peppers. However, there were no other vegetables beside the somewhat ridiculous carrot garnishes. My dish was liter-

regentthai.com

UNIQUE AMBIENCE Questionable lighting adds to an interesting dining experience.

 THE regent 1910 18th St. NW. cuisine: Thai price: $$$$

ally basil, fried rice and a surfeit of hot red and green peppers.

I’ve always believed spice should stop right before it becomes painful, but this dish did not abide by my rule. I practically guzzled my Thai iced tea in an attempt to stop the burning. Incidentally, the Thai iced teas were delicious but, in my opinion, somewhat small for the price.

My friends ordered drunken noodles and vegetable green curry, and both thoroughly enjoyed their meals, finding the food delicious and a great deal, especially given the high prices of the Dupont area. The Regent is affordable, with dinner items costing between $11 and $16. Unfortunately, my view of the restaurant was skewed by my painful, painful meal.

Fortunately, things started to look up for me and my dying taste buds when dessert arrived. A friend and I decided to share the mango sticky rice. When the dish arrived, I noted the small size with dismay. However, it was excellent. Fresh mango was the perfect companion to a bed of warm, rich sticky rice. If the dessert had been any larger, I probably would have exploded right on the spot.

This item was slightly on the expensive side, but I was not as concerned. That probably reveals a lot about my feelings towards dessert: It’s really one of the most essential aspects of any meal.

I left The Regent with mixed feelings.

I was extremely full and therefore walking the line between utter satisfaction and nausea. I felt like I might have spontaneously developed heartburn from the extreme spiciness of my food, and I lost feeling in my mouth in the process.

The Regent has good food for a relatively good price, and that’s why it’s so popular around the Dupont area. However, for lazier Georgetown students such as myself, I kind of wished I had just gone to Mai Thai on Prospect Street for food of the same quality and price.

food&drink burleith bartender

Shake It Up: Tools for a Novice Bartender

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ew York City does drinks fessional and fancy. I recently purfancy. At the first bar I vis- chased one for less than $5.

Next, you’ll need something to ited there this summer, I spent an unreasonable amount of measure your ingredients. Drink money on a tequila cocktail made recipes usually use ounces, so with clarified peach juice. It was your typical measuring cups will poured over a two-and-a-half-inch be less than ideal. Luckily, there’s ice cube made from distilled wa- a useful tool called a jigger, which ter. To date, it remains one of the resembles two metal cones of most delicious and interesting different sizes fused together on things I’ve tasted, but I cannot rec- their bottoms. Jiggers are great reate it. Why? The bar (Booker and because they’re compact and easy Dax, if you’re interested) used a cen- to use, and you get two measuretrifuge to clarify the peach juice. ments from one tool. You can They chilled the drink with liquid usually find these in two and oneounce or one and a nitrogen. I have half and three-quarnone of those items ters-ounce combinaat my disposal, and tions, but pick up a my ice tray makes bunch of different only normal-sized ones if you’re feeling cubes. ambitious (I think Luckily, mixing I own four or five), delicious drinks at PrestonMui since they cost about home does not re$3 apiece. quire a trip to the When you pour drinks, you’ll new science center. All you need is some knowledge, decent ingredi- need to strain out any solids you ents and an inexpensive set of ba- used, like ice or mint. There are sic bar tools. Forgo the lazy college- two types of strainers, the Hawkid combination of cheap booze thorne and the Julep. The Hawand whatever mixer is on hand, thorne strainer uses a spring and make something classy and to catch solids, while the Julep impressive. What follows is a list strainer uses small holes. Choose of tools you should consider invest- whichever feels best — or get both, ing in to quickly and easily bring since they’re less than $5 each.

Finally, you can put your fineyour next party to a higher level.

The first tool is, of course, your ly crafted drinks into something cocktail shaker. There are a few more presentable than a red variations on the market, but my cup. Most drinks will be fine in vote goes to the Boston Shaker a traditional stemmed cocktail style, which comprises a mixing glass with a wide rim. If you tin (basically a tall metal cup) and a make something fizzy, however, pint glass — and that’s it. Just build opt for a tumbler glass to keep your drink in the glass, put the tin the drink bubbly. If you like on top and shake. It’s less intuitive whiskey, use a wide, short oldthan other models, but there are fashioned glass.

That’s enough to get you startplenty of tutorials on the Internet.

You don’t need to buy them in a ed. There are, of course, other set; just find a tin and a pint glass tools for the more dedicated that fits with it. The total cost will among us, such as uniform pouring spouts, soda machines and be no more than $10.

Now that you have a shaking special ice cube trays to make tool, you need a stirring tool. It gigantic ice cubes. But you can seems like a regular spoon will go pretty far with this simple set do the trick (it might, in a pinch), of tools. Some extra creativity or but a regular spoon is too large slightly better-quality liquor than and has too flat a handle to make you might find at a typical party it practical for stirring in a nar- will improve your drinks more row cup. What you need is a bar than a fancy new gadget. spoon, which has a small bowl and a round, spiraling handle. Preston Mui is a senior in the College.

Aside from being extremely use- BURLEITH BARTENDER appears every ful, a bar spoon simply looks pro- other Friday in the guide.

8.31.12 | the guide | 11

arts&entertainment This Season at the Movies T

amplify

victoria edel Hoya Staff Writer

hough fall is one of my favorite seasons, brining the return of cardigans, riding boots and the NFL, it’s not exactly known for phenomenal movies.

Summer is a time for blockbusters, winter for Oscar bait. Spring and fall are where the “others” are dumped; some are good, some are bad. But here are the movies I’m hoping will fit in the former category.

Every Hoya must love Bradley Cooper (COL ’97), and I would hate to be the exception to that rule. I’m looking forward to his September release The Words, in which he plays a struggling author who steals another man’s story. From what I gathered through my multiple viewings of the trailer, Cooper’s character and his wife (Zoë Saldana) do a lot of fighting. Their story of love and passion is paralleled by that of either the original author of the stolen work or the characters in the plagiarized book. (No one can say that movie trailers provide a lot of clarity.) Anyway, I’m dying to see this when it’s released Sept. 7.

Speaking of movies with a literary twist, I can’t be the only Georgetown student who’s anxiously awaiting The Perks of Being a Wallflower, based on the book beloved by angst-ridden high school students everywhere. Book adaptations often fail to live up to the hype, but since this movie was written and directed by the book’s author, Stephen Chbosky, I have hope. I’m also excited to see Emma Watson in a role that’s pretty close to the exact opposite of Hermione. Check it out Sept. 21.

Released that same weekend is Trouble with the Curve, which looks like a uplifting baseball drama with Amy Adams, Clint Eastwood, John Goodman and Justin Timberlake. I want to see it for the cast alone.

Joseph Gordon-Levitt, who was my favorite part of The Dark Knight Rises, has another action movie coming out, Looper.

In it he plays a futuristic assassin who travels through time to kill his targets. Things take a surprising turn when his next target is himself but 30 years older, played by Bruce Willis. The trailer is full of awesome action sequences that seem worthy of a summer release. Instead, see it Sept. 28.

The weekend of Oct. 5 looks to be pretty promising. Tim Burton’s Frankenweenie, the movie that originally got him fired from Disney before he was a household name, looks to be a heartwarming tale of a boy and his reanimated dog. The other release I’m anxiously awaiting is Pitch Perfect, which is about two rival college a cappella groups. The movie is full of actresses

12 | the guide | 8.31.12

you’ll vaguely recognize from other films — Anna Kendrick and Brittany Snow, for example — and my new hero, Rebel Wilson, who played Kristen Wiig’s British roommate with very questionable taste in tattoos in Bridesmaids. She’s the breakout star of the trailer and (probably) the movie.

Cloud Atlas, based on the phenomenal novel by David Mitchell, comes out Oct. 26. The cast includes Halle Berry, Hugh Grant and Tom Hanks starring in interweaving storylines. Hopefully, the book will translate well to screen.

The first half of November brings two very different movies that I cannot wait to see: Wreck-It Ralph and Skyfall. The former is about a Donkey Kong-esque video game character who’s tired of being the bad guy. The latter is a Bond movie about how M’s mysterious past causes trouble for 007.

I guess people will see the last installment of the Twilight series on Nov. 16.

But those of us who aren’t Twi-hards — which is the worst fandom name ever — might want to check out Anna Karenina, based on the famous Tolstoy novel and starring Keira Knightley and Jude Law. Knightley’s past costume dramas have been exceptional, so this should be entertaining.

At the end of November, there’s Red Dawn, the remake of the Cold War classic in which high schoolers (including Patrick Swayze) saved America from the Russians.

In this version, Chris Hemsworth and Josh Hutcherson save us from North Korea.

And that’s the fall movie season — literary adaptations, undead dogs and North Korean invasions.

ROTTENTOMATOES.com

PITCH PERFECT Rebel Wilson is a rising star in this fall’s movie schedule.

The Beginner’s Guide To Classical Music

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4. Piazzolla’s “Libertango”: Argenlassical music is a scary thing.

Many of the people who listen to tine composer Ástor Piazzolla brought it wear diapers, and I’m not talk- elements of jazz and traditional clasing about the generation that watches sical music to the tango, one of his Baby Mozart. Most of the people who country’s traditional dances. This one, wrote classical music are dead white his most famous, has been recorded men. The people who review it use on just about every instrument by just words like “lush,” “cantankerous” and about everyone. Check out sexy Mon“supple” in their descriptions. In my tenegrin guitarist Miloš Karadaglic youth orchestra, we took out our graph- playing it on his latest album, or hear ing calculators and did homework — all British trumpeter Alison Balsom make while humming Debussy — when we her instrument sound so much better than it really is in her recording with rarely got a break.

I get it. It’s an easy genre to hate. Here’s the BBC Symphony Orchestra.

5. Wagner’s “Ride of the Valkyries”: a secret, though: You hear classical music all the time, whether you know it You may have heard of Wagner in or not. Movie soundtracks, commer- your history classes because he was Hitler’s favorite comcials, TV shows, when poser. However, he someone puts you on did incredible (and hold, you name it. You incredibly weird) know more than you things for opera and think, and for those of classical music as a you who want to listen whole. You’ve probrather than merely AlliePrescott ably heard this song hear, you’re in luck. before, especially if The following list will provide you with all sorts of knowledge you’ve seen Apocalypse Now. 6. Beethoven’s “Symphony No. 5”: you can use to impress your grandma, Beethoven wrote nine symphonies, and it’s also a solid study playlist.

1. Pachelbel’s “Canon in D”: This but this one is by far the most fasong is arguably the most popular in mous. That opening “da-da-da-DUM” classical music, and people just can’t is one of the most-played musical get enough of it. If you’ve ever been to sequences in TV and movies, but an American wedding, you’ve heard it. the entire symphony deserves some A simple eight-note theme is audible lovin’, too. Kurt Masur and the New throughout. The embellishments that York Philharmonic have a great reaccompany it never overwhelm it. The cording of this piece. There’s also a Stradivarius String Quartet has one of disco recording from 1976 by Walter Murphy & The Big Apple Band, which my favorite versions.

2. Brahms’ “Hungarian Dance No. 5”: is a favorite in my house.

7. Smetana’s “Die Moldau”: You may Johannes Brahms probably didn’t expect that one of his 25 Hungarian have heard this one, also known as dances would be playing from pockets “Vltava,” in the trailer for Tree of and purses hundreds of times a day as Life. With an epic flute solo at the their owners’ phones rang. Listen to beginning and a theme that sounds the performance given by the London like waves, you’ll feel like you’re in Prague on the river for which the Symphony Orchestra.

3. Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons”: piece was named. Look up a few Violinist Sarah Chang once said — to facts about other nationalist Czech paraphrase — “This guy wrote, like, 500 music, and you’re set.

A familiarity with these pieces concertos, but ‘The Four Seasons’ really stand out.” She’s right; there’s a reason will arm you for discussion with these are some of the most famous any pretentious classical fan. Oh works of all time. With provocative yeah, and you may even like the imagery and a set of poems that goes music. along with the music for each season, what’s not to love? Sarah Chang and Allie Prescott is a junior in the College. the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra have AMPLIFY appears every other Friday in one of the best versions. the guide.

photoessay

The Many Worlds of Egypt

arts&entertainment

by sarah kaplan

When I was packing for my study abroad program in Egypt early this summer, a friend of mine who was living there warned me that I had to be prepared for two Egypts. The first is flashy and modern and moderately Westernized, a country where every kid has a Facebook and American pop music booms from every taxi. The second Egypt is more religious, more deeply conservative, a country still grasping at the past out of fear for the future, where men will point at your chest and yell at you if they think your shirt shows too much skin.

I saw both these Egypts during my two months there, and more.

I saw Egypt the third world country, where children as young as four worked selling tissue packets on the street. I saw Egypt the burgeoning democracy, where I witnessed the announcement of the results of the country’s first free elections and saw the expressions of immense pride and exhilaration on Egyptians’ faces.

I visited the North Coast, where the country’s elite tan on private beaches in front of the crystalline blue Mediterranean. And I walked through parts of Cairo where every building seemed to be halfway deteriorating, where motorcycles, donkey carts, pedestrians and stray dogs crowded the unpaved, trash-strewn streets.

I’m fascinated by how this country can contain these separate but tangential worlds and how Egyptians seem able to navigate them with such grace. I didn’t get to fully witness all of these worlds when I visited, but what I did see of each of them left me hungry for more.

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8.31.12 | the guide | 13

arts&entertainment small-screen obsessions

Fall Television: New Shows Bring Great Promise

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ure, you really don’t need another television show to add to your weekly schedule. But since the last few network pilot seasons having been pretty lackluster, why not make some room for a few gems looking to break the streak of truly uninspired, often misguided shows the networks have been handing us lately? (“The Playboy Club,” I’m looking at you.) Admittedly, it’s hard to tell from a two-minute trailer if it will truly be a quality program, and since I’m not a fancy TV critic for Entertainment Weekly or something, I won’t see the full pilot episodes until they air this fall. Still, I feel pretty confident in recommending these three new shows based not just on their trailers but — perhaps more importantly — on the talent involved.

“The Mindy Project” | Fox It’s Mindy Kaling, people. Between her work as an actress and writer on “The Office,” her super funny memoir and her laugh-outloud Twitter feed, this lady is just awesome. Also, remember that time she played Natalie Portman’s scene-stealing BFF in No Strings Attached? Yeah, Mindy Kaling is just the funniest. On her new comedy, she’ll play an OB/GYN trying to “navigate both her personal and professional lives,” according to the logline. But you know it’s going to be way better than that suggests.

Kaling’s trademark quirkiness is sure to be front and center, making this must-see viewing for when you really need a mental break and a laugh this fall.

“Nashville” | ABC You guys, Tami Taylor — I mean, Connie Britton will be back on your TV this fall! Yes, I really BridgetMullen “Elementary” | CBS think this situation Starring Jonny calls for an exclamaLee Miller — whom I completely tion point. After a weird but cool fell in love with as Mr. Knightley stint on “American Horror Story” on the BBC miniseries “Emma” last year, the “Friday Night Lights” — as the inimitable Sherlock vet is returning to television as a Holmes and Lucy Liu, who needs country music star at her peak, no introduction, as his partner while Hayden Panettiere will play Watson, “Elementary” will be her star-on-the-rise rival. Confesa modern take on the cases of sion: I am not at all a country the private eye set in New York music fan. Still, I’m super excited City. Let me first say that I had to watch this show, and not just some reservations about this: In because Britton is involved. The many ways, “Elementary” will country music scene is actually be the American version of the pretty unexplored on television, outstanding BBC program “Sher- and it seems clear from the traillock,” and I really don’t think er that this nighttime soap will you can do any better — quali- cover fresh ground and also might ty-wise, acting-wise, anything- be truly good, not devolving into wise — than that show. Further, catfight territory in the conflict I couldn’t really wrap my head between its two stars. around the idea of Liu as WatMark your schedules! Or not, beson. But after seeing the trailer, cause, let’s be honest, do any of us I was impressed with Liu, and I watch TV shows when they are acthink her presence as Watson tually on anymore? Still, be sure may be just the fresh take that to keep your eye out for these new this adaptation needs in order to shows — they all definitely have stand out. Miller seems to have obsession potential.

Holmes’ characteristic eccentricities down, and as long as things Bridget Mullen is a sophomore in don’t get too shtick-y, I think this the College. SMALL-SCREEN OBshow could work. I know I’ll be SESSIONS appears every other Frituning in to find out if it does. day in the guide.

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Novel Comes Alive In Intense Film EDUARDO GUEIROS Special to The Hoya

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f you’re looking for a typical action mov- different tones, shifting appropriately ie, Lawless is not it. There are no high- from graphic, crudely emotional scenes speed car chases or actors dramatically to moments that are comical and light. exiting exploding buildings. Instead of In addition, the presence of Maggie wearing spandex suits, the characters are (Jessica Chastain), a city girl in search of dressed in petticoats and suspenders. a quiet life, and Birtha Minnix (Mia WaThe film, which is based on Matt Bon- sikowska), a young lady from a strict relidurant’s novel The Wettest County in the gious background, adds romance to the World, gives an account of the lives of intense plot but doesn’t treat it like an Bondurant’s grandfather and great un- afterthought as many action movies do. cles, moonshine bootleggers during the We’re exposed to the characters’ personal Prohibition Era. lives, helping us empathize with them.

I was fortunate enough to interview They’re not just criminals — they’re comBondurant, who explained that the sto- plex people with intense motivations. ry of the infamous brothers surfaced as Bondurant repeatedly conveyed his somewhat of a surgratitude about havprise to his family. ing the story turned “There is not into a film, particumuch of a storytelllarly since the writer ing culture to my and director “tried to father’s side of the stay true to the spirit LAWLESS family, and a lot of of the book.” He also these things were appreciated the acstarring: Tom Hardy, Jessica not talked about, tors’ performances; Chastain and Shia LaBeouf. ever,” he explained.

Clarke and LaBeouf “They’re these kind were the two he menof quiet people.” tioned specifically.

Nevertheless, Bondurant said he enThe acting is phenomenal and helps joyed seeing director John Hillcoat’s por- bring these unique characters to life. trayal of his ancestors.

LaBeouf, Pearce and Hardy deserve special “This is a movie I would like even if I mention, while both women and Clarke wasn’t related to the story at all,” he said. also impress. LaBeouf excels particularly I have to agree. Hillcoat has master- in his ability to adapt to the drastic changfully transferred Bondurant’s tale to the es in his character, transitioning from big screen in a raw and intense depiction. the inexperienced, somewhat soft little In the midst of the Great Depression, brother into the serious man, willing to the three Bondurant brothers — Forrest do what it takes to make things right.

(Tom Hardy), Jack (Shia LaBeouf) and An older-looking, almost unrecognizHoward (Jason Clarke) — are able to make able Pearce is also praiseworthy as the eea living bootlegging moonshine unen- rie special agent. Pearce transforms into cumbered by local law enforcement. But a fantastic villain, convincing in both his this oversight changes with the arrival of mannerisms and his sometimes erratic Special Agent Charlie Rakes (Guy Pearce), behavior. who threatens the existence of the operaIt’s Hardy, however, who is most imtion. pressive. The increasingly acclaimed actor The brothers face successes, failures, provides a striking performance as the inchallenges and opportunities at they en- timidating middle brother, who is allegdure Rake’s pursuit. They’re put to the edly “indestructible.” His role is more test, physically and emotionally. about presence than dialogue, as his acThe story is tightly constructed. Hill- tions and demeanor as the stern and cold coat and writer Nick Cave successfully Forrest speak louder than his words. He develop the characters and their rela- skillfully relays his character’s comfort tionships, which elevating the impact of around danger and his social awkwardevents. While many action movies lack ness near normalcy. Hardy is wonderful, well-rounded characters, this film suc- and this rising star deserves praise for anceeds where others have fallen short. The other fantastic performance that adds to plot’s rapid pace helps balance the film’s his already substantial reputation.

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arts&entertainment

Jukebox Fails to Please

New Releases

EMILY PERKINS & Hunter main

sheena karkal

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Hoya Staff Writers

ormed just down the road at GWU in 2003, Jukebox the Ghost’s popularity has boomed in recent years. We’ve been fans for a while. Their newest effort, Safe Travels, was released in June, and although we immediately downloaded it, it’s taken us a while to actually give it a thorough listen.

To be honest, we could have waited a little longer.

Although our research revealed that the last year has been somewhat emotionally calamitous for the band, that sentiment doesn’t quite come across in the music. The increasingly complex instrumentation — strings play a prominent role in this album — does little to enhance the songs. Their sudden foray into the land of violins and cellos was slightly bewildering; the obvious instrumental confidence that comes across in their considerably leaner debut and their concerts is muddled by this addition. Instead of supporting what singers Ben Thornewill and Tommy Siegel have to say — and what they have to say can be surprisingly affecting — the strings belittle their message.

The off-putting opener and closer don’t help, either. The choice to begin with an immediate falsetto hook on “Somebody” is odd, given how jarring the sudden entrance can be, and ending with a pseudo-gospel reflective piece in “The Spiritual” was ill advised. The bonus track, “A La La,” redeemed the finale, however, with an engaging drum line and effective volume shifts typical of Jukebox’s earlier work. Another highlight was “Ghosts in Empty Houses,” which succeeds in combining the band’s early gusto with an earnestness that evokes They

Hoya Staff Writer

‘STRANGE MAN’ | RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS

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The Red Hot Chili Peppers are back with the characteristic crooning vocals, twanging bass and introspective lyrics we love. In this new single, the sound harkens back to their ’90s roots and minor chord shifts. The track begins with reflective lyrics, but the mood shifts with funky and head-bobbing rhythms that remind you their offbeat roots.

‘CHAINED’ | THE XX  JUKEBOXTHEGHOST.COM

SAFE TRAVELS is risky with no reward, leaving fans out in the cold.

Might Be Giants. Overall, though, the band members seem less confident, and this could be due to the change in sound and emotional significance that accompanies this new album.

Maybe it’s because they’re not entirely invested in this new direction, or maybe it’s because they focused more on the smaller details than the bigger picture; the final product is disappointing eitherway.

The increasing complexity in their songs unfortunately puts a damper on the confidence that made their earlier work so appealing, but the album is eminently listenable, especially for those unfamiliar with their past brilliance.

If we were to recommend a Jukebox album to a friend, however, we don’t think this would be the one.

Known for their dramatic duets, Romy Madley Croft and Oliver Sim take it up a notch with this single. Their voices twist and turn without seeming to notice each other.

The percussion mirrors this mismatch, but somehow it works. It culminates in a pairing that provides an emotional crescendo without being too obvious.

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stereogum.COM

FRAGRANT WORLD is a little plain.

for their psych-pop sound. However, on their third and latest album, Fragrant World, the band plays it a little too safe. They delve into the eccentric while pandering to synth-pop fans, never establishing anything memorable.

Fragrant World opens with “Fingers Never Bleed,” which proves to be an accurate representation of the album to follow. Its nonlinear structure keeps the listener from growing too comfortable with one beat. With all the warped synth, the production was obviously meticulous. Every sound is in its place, however strange that place may be.

Over three albums, Yeasayer has leaned on blending electronic and standard instrumentation, to varying degrees of success. Each song struggles to find the balance between the two, especially with vocals, which are often heavily distorted with vocorder or autotune.

“Longevity” blends a Justin Timberlake-esque falsetto with saturated

fab.COM

‘TODAY’S SUPERNATURAL’ | ANIMAL COLLECTIVE 

This psychedelic group surged in popularity after their hit album in 2009.

You could love or hate the jarring stitching together of percussion and vocal effects they’re known for. The tune gets better the more you listen to it, but with its abrupt, cacophonic start you may not even get through a first listen.

Yeasayer: Familiar but Forgettable S ince the indie world traded its electric guitars for synthesizers and drum pads, experimental music has been a mainstay of the genre.

Brooklyn’s Yeasayer has gained acclaim from critics and famous fans like Jay-Z

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vocal effects, while “Blue Paper” layers anxious strings over jittering club beats.

On “Blue Paper,” as is the case with most Yeasayer songs, the beats themselves are the most remarkable aspect of this song. However, they fail to bridge the gap between catchy and hook-worthy.

Undoubtedly intriguing, they are unfortunately forgettable.

On “Henrietta,” twisted vocals mesh with ominous and danceable synths.

Following the album’s theme of living forever, its lyrics reflect a simultaneous fascination and deep-seated fear of eternal youth. What sounds like an endearing promise from one lover to another, though, is in fact (according to the band) the story of the preserved cancer cells of a long-dead Baltimore woman. Of all the things said about Yeasayer since their start in 2007, not once have they been accused of being conventional.

Save for the occasional foray into

pitchfork.COM

Wil Curiel Hoya Staff Writer

1950s oncology, the lyrics on Fragrant World are frustratingly boring. “Fingers Never Bleed” tells of a spurned lover with the cringe-inducing line “You think you can do this without me/ but I know I can do this without you.”

Most of the tracks on Fragrant World will almost certainly draw comparisons to synth pioneers of the ’80s. “Devil and the Deed” harkens back to Depeche Mode, with its electronic-trashcan-lidstompalong and lush, if not baffling, textures.

Over 11 distinctly similar tracks, Yeasayer fails to offer anything new.

That is not to say the album is a failure.

Staccato snares and buckled synth melodies will please old fans and are enough to attract new ones. However, Fragrant World, with its disappointing brand of experimental electronic that intrigues but fails to inspire, will most likely be lost in the tide of nu-disco this summer has brought.

15 | the guide | 8.31.12

bestbets

summer nights — sarah kaplan

on campus

COLLEGE COLORS DAY TAILGATE Friday, Aug. 31 at 2 p.m. — Kehoe Field Head up to Kehoe Field before the men’s soccer game and chow down on hot dogs and hamburgers at this free tailgate. Don your finest blue and gray and cheer them on as they take on CS Northridge.

MIDNIGHT CARNIVAL: THE BUCKET LIST Friday, Aug. 31 at 9 p.m. — Copley Lawn Check out Copley Lawn to ride a mechanical bull, enter a pie-eating contest, get a (fake) tattoo or even zip-line. Go with your friends or make some new ones while you’re there. It’s sure to be a blast, and it’s free for students.

THE PARTY AT CLUB LAU Saturday, Sept. 1 at 10 p.m. — Lauinger Library Club Lau is back this Welcome Week. Although a long line is typical, it can be worth it for this annual opportunity to rock Pierce Reading Room. Grab a group of friends and go for it. Just don’t forget your GOCard; they’re required for admittance.

DEFINING SHARIAH: BETWEEN THE ARAB SPRING AND AMERICA Tuesday, Sept. 4 at 12:30 p.m. — ICC 241 Jasser Auda, deputy director and associate professor at the Center of Islamic Legislation and Ethics at the Qatar Foundation, will be giving a talk about what shariah is in the post-Arab Spring world, focusing geographically on the Middle East and the United States.

around town friday

saturday

sunday

Venture to the American Art Museum to see this exhibit on African American Art, which ends Sept. 3. Featuring paintings, sculpture and photography from over 40 black artists, it offers a view into life in America from the perspective of the black community, with art from the Harlem Renaissance through the modern day.

Take a trip to see “Towering Ambition” at the National Building Museum. Explore on your own or take a limited-edition tour Sept. 1 through Sept. 3 with LEGO-certified professional Adam Reed Tucker — one of only 11 in the world with that title — who constructed the 15 buildings on display.

Take a stroll to Rock Creek Park, where you can see the Annual D.C. Blues Festival, featuring a variety of bands. Free for all, this concert provides the perfect opportunity to soak in one last summer-ish night in D.C. before the leaves start falling. Though not entirely Metro accessible, it’s a nice walk.

WHERE: Smithsonian American Art Museum WHEN: 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily INFO: americanart.si.edu PRICE: Free METRO: Gallery Place

WHERE: National Building Museum WHEN: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

INFO: nbm.org PRICE: $5 METRO: Judiciary Square or Gallery Place

WHERE: Rock Creek Park WHEN: Sept. 1, 12 p.m. to 12 a.m.

INFO: dcblues.org PRICE: Free METRO: Georgia Avenue-Petworth

zachary gordon Hoya Staff Writer