THE COMMENTATOR Vol. XL, No. 10 The Student Newspaper of the New York University School of Law February 22, 2006 Dean Revesz Criticizes “Despicable” Union; Is “Horrified” by Pentagon

BOBBIE ANDELSON ’08 was well-intentioned. It just did during the application process for There were so many stu- not work, and we will not be doing these positions. dents packed into Vanderbilt Hall’s it again,” Revesz said. Revesz, who spent two years Room 214 on Valentine’s Day for Revesz also addressed ru- chairing NYU’s Clerkship Commit- Dean Ricky Revesz’s Town Hall mors that the student group, tee, disagreed with students who Meeting that there were hardly OUTLaw, was being monitored by felt that lack of credit resulting in enough seats to go around. the Pentagon. “We are horrified lack of exposure to work in the ju- The meeting, which was by these reports,” Revesz said. diciary was hurting NYU in the only supposed to last from 4 pm “We hope to proceed quickly in clerkship application process. He until 5 pm, went considerably filing a report and we will go for- stated that NYU was well-repre- longer, and when Revesz had to ward and litigate if necessary.” sented with clerkships, citing the leave at some point half way into When the floor was opened fact that last year Justice O’Connor the second hour, there were still to student questions, the first stu- had two clerks from NYU, making plenty of student hands left waiv- dent inquiry was why NYU, un- it the first time that any Supreme ing, seeking to further the dialogue like some other institutions, does Court Justice had more than one between the students and the ad- not offer any credit for intern- NYU clerk in a single year. “Ulti- ministration. ships, including judicial intern- mately, our decision on credit is an Revesz was pleased with the ships. educational one, despite students’ turnout and the exchange with stu- Revesz replied that NYU practical concerns.” dents, mentioning the steps he has chosen not to offer credits Revesz chose not to mention takes to stay in tune with stu- toward graduation for judicial in- the elephant in the room: the con- dents, including meeting once a ternships “because of the issue of troversial proposed all-ALSA month with the SBA, scheduling supervision. We have an excel- space, but it was not long before a student drop-in hours once a lent clinical program where we student asked Revesz to address week, and personally responding know that the right level of super- the subject. Revesz said: “This to all of his email each night. Start- vision will take place. Eight-to-one issue has been going on for Team Law School dominated the annual All-University Games. Brandon Chock ing with this semester, Town Hall is the typical student-to-faculty months. There have probably ’06 celebrated by raising the SLAP Football Goblet in victory. Conor French has Meetings with Dean Revesz will ratio in our clinic. If we did not been more meetings on this issue a full article on the night’s action in Sports on page 8. occur twice every semester. have the resources of our clinical than any other student issue this The first issue Revesz program, we might consider going year.” chose to address was faculty hir- the way of other schools and of- In response to the student- ing, which includes both entry- fering credit for internships, but written all-ALSA proposal, Revesz Where Do We Go From level hiring and lateral hiring. NYU that is not an issue.” said that he will be making his de- Law recently extended six job of- The student responded cision in the next few weeks. He fers of tenured professorships. with his belief that NYU students’ will comply with student requests Robert Sitkoff, Associate Profes- representation among the ranks of to make his decision available in Here? Middle East Scholars sor of Law at Northwestern Uni- post-graduation federal judicial writing. Revesz declared that the versity, has already accepted clerks was suffering as a result of substance of the request and not NYU’s offer and will be teaching this policy because of lack of stu- logistical considerations will be the Discuss Stunning Election Trusts and Estates here this Fall, dent experience working for deciding factor in determining CHRIS MOON ’06 mocracy. Within the past 15 years, before spending the two semes- judges harming NYU students Continued on page 2 Quick, what is the Spanish most of the successful political ters of 2007 as a Visiting Professor word for never? No, not nunca. parties in the Muslim world have at Harvard and Yale, respectively. That’s right, jamás! Pronounced, been both “Islamic and Demo- Offers of tenured professor- coincidentally, like the name of the cratic,” according to Feldman. ship have also been extended to group that won the recent Pales- These parties comes forward with Jeremy Waldron, a professor of tinian elections. If you speak Span- the message that, “Islam is the Law and Politics at Columbia; ish, or even if you don’t, it’s a fit- answer.” Asking why Islamic par- Roderick (Rick) Hills, a constitu- ting name: everybody jamás would ties have been so successful, tional law scholar from the Univer- think that Hamas could actually Feldman posited that secular alter- sity of Michigan; Cynthia Estlund, win an election. natives are seen to have been tried a labor law scholar at Columbia and On February 7, 2006, three and failed. Furthermore, with the Heather Gerken, a Professor of Elec- preeminent scholars on the Middle profound corruption of govern- tion law at Harvard, among oth- East convened in Vanderbilt Hall ers. before a standing-room only Hamas? Jamás. Revesz stated that NYU was crowd of over 100 students to dis- likely to make one or two more of- cuss the startling Hamas victory. Si, they won. And fers of tenured professorship this The three speakers included Noah semester. He also encouraged stu- Feldman, professor of law at New for good reasons. dents interested in having more Professor Sitkoff, who visited last Dean Revesz answered questions in York University School of Law, input in the faculty hiring process ments in the Middle East, Islamic semester at the Law School, has agreed front of a packed house at a V-Day whose scholarly work includes to consider involvement with the parties are perceived to be less to leave Northwestern for NYU Law Town Hall Meeting “After Jihad,” a study of Democ- Student Advisory Committee on corrupt, even if that perception racy in Muslim countries; Sami faculty hiring. Interested students isn’t always reality. Zubaida, an NYU Global Visiting may contact SBA president Oliver Professor Feldman then Professor of Law who currently Carter for more information. moved on to the specific example Infra teaches a seminar on Law and The second issue Revesz of the recent Hamas victory. He felt Power in the Islamic World; and choose to address was the Fall that, in his view, the vote for Hamas Zachary Lockman, a professor of 2005 experiment in teaching Pro- was “perfectly rational under the Winter’s Shout-outs p. 3 Middle Eastern Studies at New fessional Responsibility as a large circumstances,” as a response to York University. seminar, with an enrollment of 350 the corrupt regime of the PA. Hop- All-ALSA Space Point-Counterpoint p. 4-5 Coming up to bat in leadoff students. Revesz stated that by ing for peace in the region, spot was Professor Feldman, who all accounts, including those of Feldman feels that Hamas will con- All University Games Wrap-up p. 8 began his remarks by discussing the students and the professor, tinue to implement a two-tiered the dichotomy of Islam and De- Continued on page 2 the experiment was a failure. “It Page 2 The Commentator February 22, 2006

Stunning Hamas Victory Town Hall Meeting Apartments continued from page 1 ciologist came the historian, Pro- Continued from page 1 Revesz said that he worked to ar- fessor Lockman. He views the vic- Sublets & range a memorial service at the law strategy of no violence now, but whether an all-ALSA space will be tory of Hamas as a failure of Oslo. school for a former employee who keeping open violence as a last Roommates provided. First of all, the Oslo Treaty left dif- recently died leaving behind resort alternative. Revesz also did not mention ficult issues on the table, such as young children. The family of the Professor Zubaida began another divisive issue on campus: final borders, the fate of Jewish Find: employee felt compelled to find his remarks by indicating that he the GSOC strike. Law students are settlements, and the question of Apartments another location when they were would look at the current elections not eligible for membership in what to do with Jerusalem, a holy contacted by the Union and told from the point of view of a soci- Sublets or GSOC Union. Recently, however, city to three of the world’s major that the memorial service would be ologist. He felt that the victory of the Union has targeted Public In- religions. Commenting on the Roommates picketed. Hamas, when looked at from the terest Law Center speaker events build-up to the elections, Lockman ALL MAJOR CITIES The meeting closed with a day to day perspective, “hasn’t condemned the use of suicide and job fairs. The views of stu- really altered much.” The major bombers by Hamas, labeling them Nationwide dents on the propriety of target- Hiring profs and problem in Gaza remains. There is “morally repugnant and politically ing law school public interest em- a large population on a very small ployers and getting them to move stupid.” Post: firing at GSOC & area, poorly educated without Lockman, like the two men their interviews from NYU’s cam- enough jobs for its citizens. In before him and most people in the Apartments & pus is mixed. Some students sup- the government Zubaida’s estimation, this huge port the striking GSOC students world, hope that the Middle East Rooms demographic problem is why Is- can stabilize. He feels that the best while others do not and are upset student comment about the length rael jettisoned the Gaza Strip, grant- way to do this is to give Hamas a FREE! to have missed their interviews for of NYU Law’s graduation cer- ing it a certain level of autonomy. reason to have hope by giving summer employment when the lo- emony. Revesz agreed with stu- Zubaida indicated that cur- them incentive to move towards a visit us at: cation of the interview was moved dents that the ceremony was too rent conditions are highly favor- national movement. According to off campus and they were not in- long but feels it is important that able to the rise of religion. Indeed, Lockman, “brandishing the stick formed until the last minute. every name is read. Revesz said: Islamism at the social level has won’t work.” The two sides must, Sublet.com When students finally asked “We strongly feel that [the length] thrived. Frequently, bad social “move forward or things fall Revesz for the Law School’s posi- is a bad thing, but I’m not sure how conditions leads to the rise of reli- apart.” or call: tion on the strike, Revesz stated: we would go about fixing it. If any- gious social movements. Profes- Hopefully, throughout the “The union has actually acted, in one has any ideas, I am open to sor Zubaida ended his remarks by weeks and months to come, lead- 1-877-FOR- my view, in a reprehensible way.” suggestions.” asking, “where do we go from ers of Israel and Palestine can fol- RENT here.” And, like the old punch line low the advice of all three of the to the joke goes, Zubaida stated, panelists, avoiding violence and (1-877-367-7368) “oh, I wouldn’t start from here.” turning the year-long ceasefire After the lawyer and the so- into a lasting peace. Annual Public Service Auction Draws on Unprecedented Support

JOHN INFRANCA ’07 will hopefully allow the auction to nearly twice as many professors THE COMMENTATOR raise even more money than in the have donated an item to the auc- The Annual Public Service past, is increasingly important tion as did last year. Items donated The Student Newspaper of Auction is just over a week away. given an expected decrease in the by professors include a weekend availability of federal funding of at Dean Ricky Revesz and Prof. New York University School of Law This year’s auction will be held in Vanderbilt Hall on Thursday, PIC grants next year. Vicki Been’s Connecticut Home, a March 2nd at 6:00 pm. In the future the auction may single-track mountain biking trip Editor In Chief The 2006 auction has ben- play an even greater role in guar- in Montauk with Vice-Dean Barry Chris Moon efited from unprecedented in- anteeing a PIC grant to any stu- Adler, a wine and cheese tasting volvement by NYU Law alumni. with Vice-Dean Clayton Gillette, a Led by Jay and Arlene Neveloff, Faculty really homemade Cuban dinner with Prof. Managing Editors the Public Service Auction Alumni Cristina Rodriguez, poker with Profs. Samuel Issacharoff and Julia Fuma Committee has motivated alumni stepped up: moun- Cynthia Estlund, and a Chocolate Ben Kleinman to donate to the auction and to attend the event in what are ex- tain bike with Tasting with Profs. Rachel Barkow, pected to be record numbers. Jennifer Arlen, Cristina Rodriguez The donations acquired by Adler, dine with and Lily Batchelder. Arts Editor the Alumni Committee include Other items donated by pro- Brigham Barnes C-Rod, or win Night of Tournament Poker In- fessors include autographed struction, Yankees Tickets, Knicks back your tuition books, dinners, walking tours, and Tickets, a vintage framed photo- Broadway tickets. Photography Editor graph of Babe Ruth and Lou at the poker table. The auction has also ben- Gillian Burgess Gehrig, a boat cruise of NY harbor, efited from the special platinum a round of golf at the Trump Na- dent pursuing public interest work and gold sponsors. Platinum tional Golf Club, Giants Tickets, for the summer. sponsors include BarBri and the Staff Editors and a weekend in Miami. Involvement by professors law firm of Kramer Levin. Skadden Conor French Nicholas Kant Alumni involvement, which has also increased this year, as and LeBoeuf Lamb are supporting Jessica Gonzalez Meredith Johnston the auction as gold sponsors. Mary Santanello Craig Winters This year’s auction features so many great items that the silent auction has been separated into Editors Emeritus two rooms. Featured items will be Emily Bushnell in Vanderbilt Hall Room 110 from Dave Chubak 6:00 to 7:50 and the general silent auction will be in Greenberg Hall from 6:00 to 10:00 pm. The Commentator serves as a forum for news, opinions and ideas of mem- The highlight of the night, bers of the Law School community. Only editorials and policies developed the Live Auction, will run from 8:00 by the Editorial Board reflect the opinion of the Editorial Board. All other to 9:30 pm in Tishman Auditorium. opinions expressed are those of the author and not necessarily those of The Commentator. The Commentator is issued on alternate Wednesdays during Rumor has it that a special celeb- the academic year except during vacations and examination periods. Adver- rity guest auctioneer might be ap- tising rates are available on request. Subscriptions are also available at a rate pearing to help out with the live of $15 per year. Letters to the Editor should be sent to the following auction. Sources cannot confirm address, either on paper or via e-mail. this. The auction will feature THE COMMENTATOR items suitable for every price range 135 MacDougal Street #4G and promises to be a wonderful New York, NY 10012 time for all who attend. For more e-mail: [email protected] information and a list of auction items visit the auction online at Copyright 2005 New York University www.law.nyu.edu/studentorgs/ This week’s Crossword Answers: try your skills out on page 6 with psa/. the weekly Commie Crossword courtesy of Jessica Gonzalez Commentator Opinions February 22, 2006 Page 3 The Republican War on Liberty

CRAIG WINTERS, ‘07 SEC, the FCC, and the NLRB) right, if you read the Constitution. 2001, the please stand Food for thought: “We are would have any independence But the Federalists don’t think so. most recent up? Embar- committed to the principles that obliterated. The President could What’s this have to do with year for rassing the the state exists to preserve free- order those agencies to do the liberty? Liberty has a couple of which SEC has be- dom, that the separation of gov- Administration’s dirty work by fiat. meanings, and I won’t bore you records are come a ernmental powers is central to our You may think that this ac- with Webster’s take. Simply, the available. Democratic Constitution, and that it is emphati- curately portrays the present state separation of powers is meant to That’s rite of pas- cally the province and duty of the of affairs; not so. These agencies protect us (i.e., Americans) from larger than sage. judiciary to say what the law is, are run by Presidentially-ap- untrammeled power, like that the GDPs The not what it should be.” Here’s pointed commissioners. Congress swung about by George III. As a of Sweden, same goes another: “Every day, we strive to must consent on the appoint- conceptual proposition, it’s noble. Belgium, with nearly fulfill Lincoln’s vision: a country Multiple, parallel pillars of elected Greece and all the vari- united and free, in which all people With this budget representatives duke it out for po- Chile. ous enforce- are guaranteed equal rights and litical supremacy. In the process, Analysts ment agen- the opportunity to pursue their deficit, you’d think one hopes, little guys like you and project that cies over- dreams.” me aren’t crushed. more up-to- seen by Are these quotes from the Bush would crack But the Republico-Federal- date figures Bush’s inept ACLU’s governing principles? Or, ists now control both (some would would henchmen. perhaps, from the campaign pledge down on uber- say all three) branches of govern- project an OSHA of an aspiring Democratic Con- ment. With ideologues in control even larger doesn’t pro- gressional candidate? No, my wealthy deadbeats. of the White House and Congress, gap. And tect workers, friends – not by a mile. The first these wanna-be Machiavellis are who’s not quote is the mission statement of You’d be wrong. tearing up our historic liberty pro- Another victim of the Right’s War on Liberty the Federalist Society. The sec- tections faster than a snowmobile paying? Take one guess. (An- the FDA doesn’t test beef, the Mine ond is from the 2004 Republican ments. If Bush desired to shut in Yellowstone. swer: the rich.) That means that Safety agency is on an extended Party national platform. down the SEC’s work on Enron Witness Bush’s blatant re- wage-earning Americans are foot- holiday, and we can only pray that And herein lies the dilemma. as a favor to his Pioneer-class fusal to adhere to the FISA, which ing a larger share of the bill for someone at the Nuclear Regulatory How can two organizations (or fundraiser Kenny-boy, for in- protects Americans from domes- the give-backs, tax-breaks and Commission knows what they’re one organization, since they over- stance, he couldn’t order it – only tic eavesdropping without a war- corporate welfare spread nice and doing. What about the liberty in- lap and feed off each other) rhe- a majority of the SEC’s commis- rant. Examine the President’s “en- fat by the President. The right to terests of the workers who die un- torically committed to broad “lib- sioners could. Hence, the SEC is emy combatant” rationale for de- a fair and equitable society is a necessarily because Bush wouldn’t erty” interests pursue an agenda an independent agency. taining American citizens arrested liberty interest – the liberty to enforce our workplace safety laws? explicitly antithetical to those in- The unitary executive says on U.S. soil in military brigs, with work and live in a society that While those agencies terests? How can intelligent folks adios to independence. It’s not or without a trial. Notice how this imposes fair burdens. whither on the vine, we do know mouth the above words and main- clear exactly how this would work, Administration classifies every- With the exploding budget that there’s money in the budget to tain a straight face as they pulp but that’s just a measure of how thing, even routine government deficit (telegram to fiscally-con- those very principles more effec- radical this idea is – it’s never been documents explicitly made public servative Republicans: where The sad reality of tively than an Arthur Anderson tried during our long experiment under FOIA laws (can you say, have you gone?), you’d think shredder? with democracy. And there’s “Hello, Nixon?”). Note how the Bush would want to crack-down Bush’s tenure is Let’s take the separation of more. The President’s nasty habit President’s DOJ attempts to cur- on über-wealthy deadbeats. Un- powers argument first. It’s in the of attaching “signing statements” tail the press’s freedom to report fortunately, you’d be wrong. IRS that the principles Constitution; there’s no denying to bills passed by Congress is on the historic blunders and epic enforcement was slashed under it. Even Originalists will have a meant to constrain those duly mismanagement engineered, per- Clinton, at the behest of the Re- that he purports to heard time ignoring that one. But passed laws (a practice advo- haps, by the least competent Ad- publican Congress, and the Presi- what has the Republico-Federal- cated by the younger, Reagan Ad- ministration since Grant. dent hasn’t sought to plug this hold dear aren’t ist Party done lately with regard to ministration-version of Alito). Of course, that’s the obvi- obvious loophole. Ditto with the freedom, opportu- our cherished Separation? Two The signing statements are meant ous stuff. Peel back another layer SEC: after a rise in funding imme- things. First, Bush’s Federalist to rival the text of the bills and the of the White House onion and you diately following Enron, Karl nity, or seperation cronies (including now-Justice authority of legislative history see an even more cynical and in- Rove’s corporate contributors Alito) are pushing a far-out theory when interpreted by courts. If vidious process that directly im- succeeded in freezing the SEC’s of powers called the “unitary Executive.” you thought that the President’s pacts on the fairness of our soci- budget, even though all evidence hire a 24 year-old, unqualified right- One implication is that indepen- only role in the legislative process ety. The IRS reported this week suggests that the markets con- wing hack to staff the NASA press dent federal agencies housed in was adding his (or her, maybe that tax evasion has hit record tinue to be riddled with fraud and office and muzzle career scientists the executive branch (think of the soon) John Hancock, you’d be highs – over $350 billion dollars in deceit. Will the next Eliot Spitzer on global warming. The press aide in question had one qualification Craig’s Weekly Shout-Outs for his job at NASA: he was an intern in the Bush-Cheney 2004 BY CRAIG WINTERS, ‘07 keep your energy task-force meet- his ilk), but you’ve done it! “addicted to oil,” then you pro- campaign “war room.” I’m only ings secret. Not even a single hearing, posed absolutely nothing to com- surprised he wasn’t appointed to To Vice-President “Shooter” You pack a shotgun-sized Senator? Your Senate colleagues bat that addiction! Wow! If that’s the Federal Reserve. How about Cheney: blast of oomph that keeps every- passed a law in 1978 that said the not chutzpah, I don’t know what using his salary to hire someone to Only sissies apologize when one guessing. Gold star for you! President couldn’t spy on U.S. citi- is. actually enforce clean-drinking wa- they shoot a friend in the face with zens on U.S. soil without a war- You even have me con- ter requirements? a 28-gauge shotgun. And you To Senator Pat Roberts: rant. But Bush did it! It takes guts fused. On one hand, we have The ugly, and sad, reality of didn’t! Heck of a job! Many in my illustrious read- to stand up to your better self. record-high oil prices, which is a Bush’s tenure is that the principles After all, anyone can mistake ership may not know who you are. Why ask questions when the an- regressive tax on those who can it purports to hold dear aren’t the a clearly marked, orange-clad sep- Let me introduce: you’re the guy swers might result in your politi- least afford it. We’re in Iraq for a “freedom,” “opportunity,” and tuagenarian for a quail. It’s really who’s making sure that the U.S. cal paymasters spending time in generation, a war largely fought “separation of powers” principles quite easy. Let’s see: a quail is the Senate doesn’t investigate Bush’s jail? I’d award you a gold star, but by lower-income groups and mi- – in other words, liberty – but rather size of a human head, and you shot domestic spying program. With Shooter Cheney may classify it. So norities. You haven’t proposed a the antipode of those stated ideals. Whittington in the face. That fondest memories of our departed let’s just extend hearty congratu- single significant energy effi- And with very few exceptions, the makes sense. If you had riddled former leader of the FBI, I’d like to lations. ciency bill that wasn’t tied to entire Republican Party has signed his lower torso with pellets, we’d bestow upon you the J. Edgar (Post-production note: As ANWAR or increased offshore oil on to his festival of fear-monger- cry fowl (ha!). Hoover Award for Complete Feck- this article went to press, Roberts drilling and subsidies for Big Oil ing, secrecy and the retrograde ap- But seriously, Shooter, you lessness! Congratulations! apparently partly balked and may (forcing Democrats to spike it). plication of our laws. amaze us. You are the most mys- While J. Edgar may have order hearings. Stay tuned for And on the other hand, you Good people can be fooled terious public figure of the last been busy bugging Martin Luther more on Robert’s miraculous offer…nothing! Tax cuts for the by well-crafted words. Here’s hop- hundred years. You were too busy King, Jr., other civil rights activ- spine-growing surgery!) rich and for investing profession- ing that sensible Republicans can to serve in the Vietnam War, yet ists and the Democratic Party, als! The end of the estate tax! see the light. Not collecting tax you crave the opportunity to send you’re one-upping that ethical To Bush’s Empty Promise You’ve actually cut the amount owed, spoiling our environment, America’s youth into harm’s way. oblivion by playing party stooge. on Oil Independence: the federal government is spend- violating the specific dictates of You received two D.U.I.’s, yet you You’ve successfully flushed any Mr. President, this Shout- ing on alternative energy re- Congress, chasing muckraking jour- impale your enemies on the lance remaining shred of Congressional Out properly belongs to your search! nalists and inviting corrupt of moral turpitude. You ran Republican independence down speechwriters. Your team shame- You win the razzle-dazzle powerbrokers like Abramoff into Halliburton, and now you lead an the political Porta-Potty. It’s not lessly swiped a move from Billy award for hypocrisy and half- White House staff meetings isn’t Administration that awards that everyday that Senators get a Flynn’s playbook in the musical truths. I’ll mail you a hard copy. good for anyone, including honest very company truckloads of no- chance to stand in favor of willful Chicago – “give ‘em the ol’ razzle- Please place it near Teddy members of the GOP. bid contracts. You cavort with law-breaking (aside from everyday dazzle,” and keep ‘em guessing. Roosevelt’s Nobel Peace Prize. Young conservatives, is this Scalia, and then you rely on him to dealings with Jack Abramoff and You told the nation that we are the legacy you’d like to inherit? Commentator Opinions Page 4 February 22, 2006 Getting Beyond the Myth: The Truth About the Proposed All-Alsa Space JOHNATHAN SMITH ’07 the ALSAs put on a plethora of my sense of outrage and distress, of that shared history of oppres- able they had felt since coming to When the idea of an “All- programming – there were movie either explicitly agree or apatheti- sion that it has been a collection NYU. ALSA Space” was first developed screenings, academic panels, exam cally support the status quo. In of students and ALSAs standing I cannot begin to do The and circulated, its lead organizers preparation workshops, even a recounting this, I don’t claim to in solidarity, lobbying for the cre- Commons/All-ALSA Space justice and proponents did not think it knitting circle. Throughout the speak for all black students, much ation of this space. While our cul- within the confines of a few hun- was a controversial idea. Sure, we week, current students, alumni, less all students of color – there tural experiences are not identical, dred words. If you have questions, expected resistance from the ad- professors, undergraduates, even are many who may feel differently, there is a sense of history that stop one of the proponents in the ministration (then again, what stu- a judge, came by to express their and in no way is my experience unites us. As one student re- hall and ask – I always welcome e- dent organizer doesn’t expect re- support for the space. more legitimate than theirs. How- marked, there is “a unified culture mail if it is meant to be truly hon- sistance from the administration?). I remember walking into the ever, I also know there are many that bridges communities of color, est and productive. During the What has been most shock- Edgar Allen Poe room during that who do share my sense of alien- that identifies and articulates our week of The Commons, I appreci- ing and unexpected is the resis- week and just smiling – it was so ation; there are many people of common experience of colonization ated my friends who, having ques- tance we have encountered from amazing. Even though everyone color who felt The Commons was and racial oppression…” tions about the space, stopped me our fellow students. We were un- had different phenotypic complex- a welcomed reprieve from their Again, while the creation of and asked me to explain, rather der the assumption that a space ions, we all could unite around our daily experiences at NYU. As one the All-ALSA Space would not than those who just made assump- dedicated to the unique needs, commitment to fighting racism and student observed: “I didn’t know solve all the problems, it would tions about what the space was challenges, and history of people discrimination. And quite hon- I was homeless until I went into accomplish a few tangible goals. supposed to be. of color – spaces that no doubt estly, it was refreshing to walk into The Commons for the first time. First, it would serve as an acknowl- During my time here at NYU, existed at most, if not all, of our a room packed with people of After I took off my bag and my edgment from the administration I have had the privilege of being respective undergraduate institu- color, all who, in the not-too-dis- jacket, the rest of the weight I had that while racism remains a prob- involved with the student group, tions – would be viewed as a wel- tant future, will be lawyers. In light been carrying seemed to fold to lem, our institution is committed the Coalition for Legal Recruiting come addition to the NYU Law of the anemically-low levels of di- the floor. For several days, I stud- to addressing it. The presence of (CoLR). CoLR is a collection of community by our classmates and versity within our “noble profes- ied, chatted, joked, and respect- a physical space will send a clear students, from all racial and ethnic peers. And when a prominent, in- sion,” it is not a sight I will see too fully disagreed in a space that was message that NYU truly is a “pri- backgrounds who come together ternational law firm dedicated frequently during my professional designed to make me feel safe.” vate university in the public inter- to lobby for more diversity within $25,000 to the ALSAs after several career. So, was The Commons/ During the week of The est,” and it is endeavoring to en- our school and legal community – racist episodes occurred within the “All-ALSA Space” designed to Commons, students, from all dif- sure that there are safe spaces on and diversity in all its many forms, firm and were then leaked out to highlight and address the needs ferent racial and ethnic back- its campus for all students, regard- including along lines of race, class, the public, we thought this was the of students of color? Yes. Was it grounds, came together and less of their racial/ethnic back- gender, and sexual orientation. perfect way to use the funds that designed to be exclusive? No. shared testimonials about the ground. Second, it would serve What CoLR has realized is that we were earmarked for “diversity pro- Like many of you, I was struggles they have had to endure as a centralized location for ALSA do not end discrimination by ig- gramming.” drawn to NYU for its commitment while at this school. But the beauty activism and organization. Many noring it and pretending that it And so, for one week last to diversity. Unfortunately, as I of The Commons was that those may not know this, but the does not exist. We can only end it October, each ALSA came together have progressed throughout this gatherings were not just about ALSAs—APALSA, BALSA, by acknowledging it and then to put on “The Commons.” That institution, I have found that com- anger and airing frustrations; LALSA, MELSA, and SALSA— working together to find creative name was chosen to signify that it mitment to not always be manifest rather they were about coming to- are responsible for a significant and long-lasting solutions. That was a space that was open to ev- in my day-to-day reality. As a gether to develop concrete strate- amount of programming at this is what The Commons/All-ALSA eryone – we hoped to hark back to black male, I look around my gies to confront these challenges school, and this space could serve Space is about – addressing the the image of the commons in the classes and see far too few people and develop creative solutions to as a location where they could presence of racism within our pro- middle of town where everyone who look like me. When the topic address these problems that will come and work together to pro- fession, and within our law school, gathered together. The week’s of race is discussed in class, unfortunately exist beyond law gram more efficiently and effec- and trying to find creative solu- goals were twofold: first, it was people of color are much too of- school. tively. The ALSAs frequently tions to confronting it. We hope meant to demonstrate to the ad- ten reduced to caricatures and ste- Are we, as organizers and sponsor panels on a plethora of you will join us in our efforts. At ministration that students of color reotypes. Instead of finding the proponents of the All-ALSA issues, including the job applica- the very least, please do not would use a space like The Com- law school classroom to be a place Space, under the belief that one tion process, preparing for finals, hinder us. mons. Second, it was an opportu- committed to diversity and pro- room could change everything? Of dealing with incidents of bias and nity for students of color (and ductively dialogue, it has far too course not. The long and painful harassment in the workplace. Ad- If you have any questions or those white students who also often disintegrated into a mosh pit history of racism both in this coun- ditionally, the ALSAs are called comments about the proposed All- wanted to join in) to come together of ignorance and intolerance. try and around the world reveal upon by the administration to do ALSA Space, you can email the and unite in our common sense of Unfortunately, many of my that the racial divide cannot be so significant outreach throughout author Johnathan Smith at purpose. Throughout the week, fellow students, far from sharing easily fixed. In fact, it is because the admissions cycle. A space [email protected]. where the ALSAs can come to- gether will led to better program- Other organizers of the All- ming and will make collaboration Alsa Space also welcome com- much simpler. ments and questions. Included Third, the space will serve are their email addresses: as a safe space for students who feel alienated or marginalized dur- ing the course of their interactions Tricia Bushnell: [email protected] with professors, administrators, or Rachel Germany: [email protected] Ahmed Ghappour: [email protected] other students – it will be a space Navneet Grewal: [email protected] where they can talk about their Tammy Kim: [email protected] experiences without fear of being Annie Lai: [email protected] further ostracized. Several stu- Kumar Rao: [email protected] Diana Reddy: [email protected] dents noted that being in The Jason Williamson: [email protected] Commons was the most comfort- Commentator Opinions February 22, 2006 Page 5 The Proposed All-Alsa Space. Deferring the Dream Once More

DINO LAVERGHETTA ’06 regation. The creation of the All- for disenfranchised conserva- comforts, and dilemmas far greater I first annunciated my opposition ALSA space would only lend cre- to the lounge, I have heard many Roughly half a century tives? It is this destructive than those we must face here at dence to those who believe that personal anecdotes from dear ago, the leaders of the Civil Rights balkanization of the student body NYU, and segregating ourselves race and ethnicity matter—that our friends in which they have detailed movement began a fight to realize for which the proposed All-ALSA during our law school years would differences are what should gov- the pressures and hardships that the foundational ideals of our na- Space will stand as a precedent. only be a disservice to us and our ern our interactions rather than our students face at the Law School tion. They urged the American Self-imposed balkanization cer- profession. common humanity. everyday. I have listened to their people to recognize that classifi- tainly may provide us with greater Having outlined my rea- Many of us came to NYU stories and pleas for a respite with cations based upon race and comfort, but it entails a cost too sons for opposing the creation of Law, in part, because of its reputa- a heavy heart. ethnicity had no place in a free high for any of us to pay. the All-ALSA Space, I now turn to tion for fostering a diverse and However, my opposition to society. So long as the color of our In response to the argu- addressing the proponents’ argu- tolerant academic community in the proposed All-ALSA space skin was allowed to divide us and ments I have made thus far, my ments. First, I must confront the which students of all creeds, col- does not spring from a failure to obscure our common humanity, opponents have responded that argument made by those who in- ors, and backgrounds could freely acknowledge the existence of a the American dream was to remain my concern for maintaining the sist that the lounge would not con- interact and learn from one an- problem. I do not deny the exist- just that. benefits of diversity and interra- stitute segregation other. We came here for that com- ence of a problem nor the need for America was slow to reach cial understanding are misguided. These individuals argue that munity envisioned by Dr. King a solution, but I firmly believe that this understanding, but once it did, They argue that the only reason white students would not be offi- where true understanding and har- segregation in any form is not an the abhorrence for segregation any of us are here is to train to cially excluded from the lounge and mony could be developed. effective or responsible remedy. became an inexorable part of the become attorneys and that the that the lounge is therefore not It is a community that is still The proposed medicine, if you national fabric. It is thus shock- quality of this preparation should segregative. This logic, however, sadly rare in modern America, but will, would be more destructive ing that certain students in the be our only concern. is wholly disingenuous. Propo- one that should be cherished and than the disease itself. Law School have proposed the While I must disagree that nents have openly advocated for applauded, not abandoned. And, Segregation would only fur- creation of a segregated lounge. this is the sole reason for attend- the creation of a space where, for make no mistake, the proposed All- ther racial tensions and misunder- Unlike in the past, the segregation ing a school such ours, I do admit lack of a better phrasing, racial mi- ALSA Space in an abandonment standing. That is not to say, how- has been called for by minorities that it is the primary functional norities would be in the majority. of that ideal. ever, that there are not other less themselves; nevertheless, the ra- goal. Unfortunately, however, the This lounge, they insist, would al- Now, achieving understand- destructive and invidious rem- tionale for opposing segregation creation of the All-ALSA space low students of color to interact ing and tolerance is not an easy edies. For example, the creation of remains as compelling and urgent would undoubtedly undermine our with one another without the pres- task. It entails discussion and de- a race-relations center under the as ever. preparation for entering the legal sures and burdens associated with bate, both of which may often elicit auspices of Student Affairs may Everyday during my un- profession. We are entering a pro- attending a predominantly white passion, animus, and emotional be helpful in relieving racial hos- dergraduate years at Boston Uni- fession in which most of us will institution. strain. It can be a painful process, tilities and pressures without the versity, I would pass by a memo- not have the luxury of choosing In essence, the proponents one that may make many people odious side-effects that accom- rial to B.U.’s greatest alumnus, Dr. our clients or the causes which we have called for the establishment very uncomfortable, but it is a nec- pany segregation. Martin Luther King, Jr. Written on advocate. Sometimes these clients of a lounge with the very purpose essary one should we wish to ever Additionally, it is much more the memorial were several quota- and causes may implicate racial of creating an artificial racial im- achieve a truly integrated and har- suitable to address the complaint tions from Dr. King. Perhaps my positions with which we strongly balance that excludes the vast monious society. that the various ALSA group of- favorite was one that read, “We disagree. majority of students attending the It is necessary that we talk fices are in disrepair by renovat- must come to see that the end we If one does not learn to con- Law School. To be blunt, anyone with one another; it is vital that we ing these offices. Those in the ra- seek is a society at peace with it- front the discomfort in law school, who insists that the All-ALSA teach one another; and, yes, it is cial minority at NYU certainly have self, a society that can live with its they will not be prepared to con- Space does not constitute racial necessary that we sometimes col- a myriad of legitimate grievances. conscience. And that will be a day front the inevitable discomfort of segregation is either a fool or a liar. lide with one another. But, this in- No one challenges the fact that not of the white man, not of the practice. This is applicable as well If we are going to have a fruitful teraction cannot just take place in these gripes are matters of press- black man. That will be the day of to those who decide to advocate debate on the issue, let’s at least the classroom. How can we ex- ing concern that deserve expedi- man as man.” on behalf of racial causes with be honest. Call the All-ALSA pect to understand one another tious attention. I am certain that He urged us to create a so- which they wholeheartedly agree, Space movement what it truly is: when after our lectures end we everyone at the Law School is pre- ciety in which we would no longer for, after all, their opponents will an attempt to take away public escape to our respective lounges pared to work together to minimize see one another as different racial certainly be equally passionate space paid for by all students and and live our social lives in seclu- the hardships faced by minority beings, but as human beings, one and devoted to their cause. When devote it to the use of exclusive sion? This is, after all, the inevi- students. There are many effec- and all. Dr. King, however, knew their adversaries telephone or racial conglomerate. table result once we begin the pro- tive and responsible means of do- that the realization of this dream stand up in court and vocalize po- Next, I must briefly address cess of segregation. There are ing this, but segregation is simply would be impossible where the sitions that the attorney would the (absurd) argument that white many groups who may feel uncom- not one of them. color of our skin was allowed to spend a lifetime opposing, he or students do not have cause to fortable in the surroundings of an In concluding my re- determine where we lived, where she will not have the luxury of gain- complain about the proposed All- elite law school such as NYU. marks, I would like to address the we ate, and where we congregated. ing a respite in a racially-favorable ALSA Space, because minority Why not a Jewish lounge, or a opinion of some students who I It would still be impossible today. lounge. students are forced to face an un- lounge for people from low-socio- have spoken with over the course Interracial harmony and under- When we graduate, we will favorable racial balance each day economic backgrounds, or a of the last week. Many people standing cannot coexist with seg- enter a world in which we will face at school. While disproportion- women’s lounge, or even a lounge racially-charged hostilities, dis- ate under-representation of minori- have informed me that while they ties at the Law School is unfortu- oppose the creation of the All- nate, it is not the result of inten- ALSA Space, the issue is not worth tional gerrymandering. Intentional active opposition. Some are afraid segregation is far more invidious, of being labeled a racist, some both practically and historically, worry about creating tensions and is much easier to prevent than with their peers, and others sim- unintentional racial imbalance. ply believe that the implications of Furthermore, it is clearly neither limited segregation are too small responsible nor effective to to deserve their full attention. counter one form of racial imbal- As you may have gathered ance by purposefully creating an- by my preceding commentary, I other. could not disagree more. How we Undoubtedly, the All-ALSA structure our community and gov- proponents only have pure and ern our interactions defines who noble motivations in pursuing the we are. A community which di- creation of the lounge. They ar- vides itself based upon racial or gue that the proposed All-ALSA ethnic classifications is one that Space is necessary to provide a has given up on Dr. King’s dream. safe-harbor to minorities in the It is a community that has allowed sometimes hostile environment of the burdens of racial interaction to a predominantly white and elite law cause it to give up on the benefits school. They argue that discrimi- of diversity and integration. It is a nation, subtle as it may be, still place where a desire for comfort exists in our halls and classrooms. has forced it to give up on travel- They discuss the fact that minor- ing the difficult road toward ity students are forced to bear the progress and maturity. I, for one, great pressure of representing their am not prepared to allow NYU Law races and cultures in class discus- give up just yet. I hope not many sions and debates. Indeed, since of you are either. Commentator Arts Page 6 February 22, 2006 Bob Dylan was Here (and by here, we mean the village.)

NICHOLAS KANT ‘06 ary 1961, depending on which bi- is walking with his then-girlfriend “No woman really loves ography you read. It still features Suze Rotolo down Jones in the di- Bob Dylan. His music is some- live music. rection of 4th Street and away from thing that women pretend to en- · Fat Black Pussycat – The Bleecker. This album cover also joy to please men, like camping or current location of this bar is 130 played a role in the Tom Cruise golf,” said Alessandra Stanley, the West 3rd Street. But it actually movie “Vanilla Sky.” tv critic for the New York Times. used to be located where · The Bitter End – 147 She said this in a review the now Panchito’s Mexican Restaurant is Bleecker Street – Dylan also canceled CBS tv show “Love now, at 103 MacDougal. If you go played here. Monkey but it came across more around to the back side of as a bitter diatribe on the New York Panchitos, on Minetta Street, you A couple of my other favor- dating scene for women. can see “FAT BLACK ites: Ms. Stanley’s assessment of PUSSYCAT” in black paint on the · John’s Pizzeria – 278 Dylan is dead wrong, and more building, above the Panchito’s Bleecker – This pizzeria, on the bitter than anything else. So in signs. This is where Dylan wrote other side of 6th Avenue, doesn’t honor of her, here are some of the the song “Blowin’ in the Wind,” sell any slices, just whole pies. In Dylan landmarks that are right here according to the article “Positively my opinion, it is some of the best in the Village, steps from the law 4th Street” from the May 1995 is- pizza you can get. This is where school buildings. sue of “Q Magazine.” Before it Tracy (Mariel Hemingway) told was Fat Black Pussycat, it was Isaac (Woody Allen) that she was · MacDougal Street – This called “The Commons,” and Dylan planning to study abroad in Lon- was apparently a major thorough- played there. don in the Woody Allen movie fare for the folk music scene back · The Gaslight – 116 “Manhattan.” Bob Dylan walking with his girlfirnd near NYU, He used to hang in the early 1960s. MacDougal – There are two en- · Riverview Terrace on out here alot. Maybe had we gone to NYU law back then we would · Café Wha? – 115 trances to the basement, one is Sutton Square - Just beneath the have seen him. MacDougal Street – This club is boarded up, the other leads to 59th Street/Queensboro Bridge on possibly where Dylan played his “Alibi” night club. Back in the the east side of Manhattan is used to eat. books, magazines, films, first New York show, back in Janu- day, Dylan and a lot of other folk where the famous scene with · Café Reggio – 121 photographs and Internet musicians used to play here. Woody Allen and Diane Keaton MacDougal – Coffeeshop where sources. If the information · Jones Street – About two sitting on the bench looking to- the beats used to go. John F. doesn’t relate to something in a This, an old Bob Dylan Hang blocks on the other side of 6th Av- ward the bridge was shot for the Kennedy gave a speech out front. movie or photo, I wasn’t there and out? enue from the law school, Jones movie “Manhattan.” Parts of “Godfather II” and the I didn’t see it, so I can’t guarantee Street runs between Bleecker and · Minetta Tavern – 113 original “Shaft” were filmed here. it is correct. However, most of what 4th Street. This is where the cover MacDougal – Expensive Italian I said is pretty well accepted as true of “The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan” restaurant where Jack Kerouac, The information in this ar- if you look into some of the litera- was shot. In the photo, Bob Dylan William Burroughs and other beats ticle was culled from various ture on the topic.

BY JESSICA GONZALES ‘06 24. needless attention 9. exists 25. clod 10. faithful attendant 26. pass on 11. here and there 28. “What, me worry?” 12. Eliot or Loch magazine 16. thing, legally 31. toupee 19. early tent 33. ___ Whitney 22. average score (for Tiger) 34. MD neighbor 27. “unfortunately . . . .” 36. Bugs’s most prominent 28. Muslim prayer direction features 29. Copland or Burr 38. target audience (non- 30. tap (your fingers) professional) 32. strong wind 42. mean 34. male duck 44. flower ring 35. Eastern England county 45. Star Wars and The Lord 37. burial chamber of the Rings 39. desire 46. level of skills necessary 40. Casablanca hero, with 55 49. plane steerer across 50. vowel preceeder 41. one of Freud’s concerns 51. non-standard card game 43. ___ Horne 52. Mary ___ 47. works long and hard 54. Kinsey’s interest 48. lawnmower company 55. see 40 down 53. not me 58. shaft 55. play loudly 60. Deb Ellis’s dep’t 56. relating to birth 62. on the ___ (escaped) 57. Carter Center partner 63. sword fights 59. thickheaded 66. The Beehive State 60. where one goes for a 67. a Nor’easter, e.g. pint 69. Saag Panir partner 61. dating couple Across 17. invalid 5. passionate 71. baseball’s Yogi 64. praise 1. wise men 18. leave in a hurry 6. circle portion 73. diva’s specialty 65. Indian garment 5. Stefani’s line Down 7. New Zealand natives 74. “okay, yes” 68. Brazillian beach town 9. Somalian model 1. friend for Rover or Spot 8. flower 75. come together 70. catch 13. very excited 2. water, in Oaxaca 20. schnoz 76. 3rd largest city in France 72. __ it (arguing again) 14. Russian range 3. Sutter’s Mill find 21. take as one’s own 77. correct 15. ____-toothed cat 4. icy home 23. fish eggs

write for the commie. we love you. Commentator Arts February 22, 2006 Page 7 Last Weeks Wu-Tang Concert: Totally Bananas East Coast/West Coast beef, the The Wu-Tang Clan’s career ticularly when the brooding RZA BRIGHAM BARNES, ’06 band has always transcended that has had it’s ups and downs, but took control of the performance) sort of trifling, and seriously, who’d primarily just some Ups followed and jovial and energetic, with Maybe the thing that sur- pick a fight with a band of mysti- by a series of Downs, the band’s Method Man repeatedly trying to prised me the most about the Wu- cal assassins?) first two releases (“Enter the Wu- walk on the crowd. And on this Tang Clan’s sold-out show at the First, while the West Coast Tang: 36 Chambers” and “Wu- Valentine’s Day the band occa- Hammerstein Ballroom last Tues- scene leaned on soulful g-funk Tang Forever”) were fairly strong, sionally took the tone of a spurned day (yes, Valentine’s Day) was beats, the Wu’s sound trips along but their next two studio albums lover, frequently asking the crowd that, when I entered the theater at over menacing and mysterious (“The W” and “Iron Flag”) both why New York didn’t love them 9:40, the band was already on soundscapes—music to snap fell a short and most members of anymore and why the city’s major stage. I had not expected New necks by, as opposed to Dr. Dre’s the band have spent most of their rap stations didn’t even announce York’s most notorious nine eight cuts to bust caps to. time since the band’s first release the show (this was all news to me man (RIP ODB—but I’ll get more Second, the Wu-Tang Clan concentrating on solo records and and a little hard to believe as I’d into that later) rap conglomerate was a super group right out of the side projects (also a mixed bag, to never been in a crowd so strongly boys of the East/West feud nearly of kung-fu mystics to be so punc- gates, then numbering nine mem- say the least), not that any of this committed to loving what was on a decade ago) to honor. While tual. My ticket said the doors of bers strong (now just eight, RIP has diminished the group’s pres- stage before it). The show came ODB’s absence was felt through- the theater would open at 6:30, and ODB, as I said before, I’ll get more ence or cache in the minds of its to a near complete halt when out the show in the form of verses to find the band already on stage into that later) and it’s one thing fans. Prior to beginning their cur- Ghostface Killa entered some- missing from each songs, the band three hours later strongly contra- to have Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg rent tour the band hadn’t per- thing of a monologue over his dis- paid official tribute to him halfway dicted what I had expected of this trading verses on a track, another formed as a complete unit for belief that New Yorkers would through the show when they band, especially considering that rather listen to songs like “this” brought Jones’ mother onto the I knew the band’s show in New (and when he said “this” the DJ stage and asked that all the lights Haven a week earlier had started dropped the beat to D4L’s infec- in the theater be turned off and then at 11:00. tious but ridiculous hit, “Laffy had the audience hold up their According to a fellow Taffy,” which Ghostface derided lighters and cell phones. The au- concertgoer also standing at the with a mocking little imitation of dience was happy to oblige, briefly back of the floor, assessing the the dance that goes to the song) transforming the Hammerstein mass before him as I was, planning instead of the Wu-Tang Clan. Ballroom into a well-illuminated, how to best penetrate this throng Moments like this left the audience multi-layered birthday cake before of people whose hands were held shrugging its shoulders like the the band shook off the momentary high making W’s by clasping their kid in class that didn’t shoot the trappings of reverence and thumbs, they had only performed spit wad and wondering when the stumbled into ODB’s break out a couple of songs. The band was band would get back to their mu- solo hit “Shimmy, Shimmy Y’all.” still taking to the stage one mem- sic. Another way that the Wu- ber at a time, and I had made it there But I don’t mean to dwell on Tang Clan spurns one’s typical in time to catch Method Man, ar- the negative or unusual. When expectations for popular rap is with guably the group’s biggest star (or the band did perform at full their trademark ghetto intellectu- at least the only one to have done strength, and this took up most of alism. Between songs the band a Right Guard commercial) appear the group’s healthy 90+ minute would comment on current events, on stage for the first time, perform- set, it was something like national, international, and local, ing (no surprise here) the song Muhammad Ali fighting in his the RZA drawing the biggest “Method Man” from the band’s prime, and, during especially dev- cheers of the night when he first album, “Enter the Wu-Tang: astating moments (like when “The quipped (and I paraphrase, of 36 Chambers.” 4th Chamber” from GZA’s solo course) “You know you livin’ in a Knowing that good journal- masterpiece, “Liquid Swords,” ex- messed-up world when the Vice- ism would require me to give some ploded from the theather’s sound President shoot somebody.” And, background on the Wu-Tang Clan system), much more like Mike when it came time for the show to for readers who might not know Tyson scoring a knock-out in the end, the band explained that the anything about the band (not that opening seconds of a fight. When show was over because “You I’d call myself a Wu-Tang aficio- the band performed “hits” like know New York is a union town, nado by any means) has probably C.R.E.A.M., they surrendered and that means New York is a mafia been one of the harder parts in pre- most of their vocal duties to the town, a Gambino town” (I think that senting my Wu-Tang Clan concert for each song to require nine years, and the announcement that audience, the majority of whom the idea that they meant to get experience, as the Wu-Tang Clan verses if each Wu-member is to the complete band would be play- could shout the words (and it’s across was that the Wu-Tang Clan simultaneously defies and em- have his moment. ing in one of the city’s largest non- something to hear a few thousand wasn’t about to pay for overtime braces typical notions of what rap For anyone but the truly arena venues brought out their yell “I grew up on the crime side / union services at the Hammerstein is or can be and what a rap group devoted, naming all the members hardcore fans and the curious en the New York Times side / where Ballroom—and as you may have is or can be. If Hunter S. Thomp- of the Wu-Tang Clan is no easy mass. As Ghostface boasted from staying alive was no jive” in uni- learned from the Wu-Tang Finan- son were a rap group, he’d be the task, like naming the Seven the stage halfway through the son) for them. cial Consulting sketch on Wu-Tang Clan. If Guns ‘n’ Roses Dwarves, if each of the Seven show, “New York, your favorite While no typical rap concert Chapelle’s Show, the Wu-Tang were a rap group, they’d be the Dwarves also went by a handful super heroes are on stage tonight” is without a lengthy homage to Clan is a fiscally responsible Wu-Tang Clan. If feudal Japan of additional aliases. Just off the and no statement could have been Biggie Smalls and Tupac Shakur, bunch). were a rap group, it’d be the Wu- top of my head I usually can only more correct that evening. the Wu-Tang Clan sidestep this Although the band declared Tang Clan. If the Five Lions of name six or seven members of the Watching the Clan perform tradition as they have their own their concert to be done, the band Voltron were a rap group, they’d band—The RZA (a.k.a. Bobby live was like going to someone fallen member, Russell Jones, a.k.a. was slow to leave the stage, each be the Wu-Tang Clan. And, most Digital), the GZA (a.k.a. the Ge- else’s church, or celebrating a holi- Ol’ Dirty Bastard, who succumbed member having a few additional importantly, if the Wu-Tang Clan nius), Method Man (a.k.a. Johnny day at someone else’s house—fa- to a little bit of everything a year Valentine’s thoughts to share with were a rap group, they’d be the Blaze, Mr. Mef, the MZA, Big John miliar in many senses, but foreign and a half ago (as opposed to the the audience, or a street date for Wu-Tang Clan. Stud, Iron Lung, etc.), Old Dirty in ways you hadn’t expected. I’m bullets that claimed the poster their next solo record to plug. More or less hailing from Bastard (a.k.a. the ODB, Osirus, no stranger to stages crowded Staten Island (or “Shaolin,” as it is Big Baby Jesus, Dirt McGirt, also with performers, but the Wu-Tang known in the Wu-Tang Lexicon) RIP, but you know I’ll get to that Clan crowds a stage like no other the Wu-Tang Clan is a collective later), Ghostface Killa (a.k.a. Tony band with its eight primary play- of rappers who first graced the car Starks, Pretty Tony), Inspectah ers, their DJ, an entire posse of stereos of suburban white teens Deck, Raekwon,—that’s as far I can hangers-on lingering just behind in the early-mid 90s. In the age get before I break down wonder- the DJ, two middle school aged where gangsta was king, the ing if U-God is really a member of boys who’d occasionally emerge Clans’s raps were consistent with the Clan, or just a buddy of theirs, with microphones and rap along the era in that they were mostly and if the group could contain with the group without any intro- about how the band 1) was tough someone that’s called “Master duction or explanation, and a and 2) loved money but defied the Chef,” or if I’m just making that gentleman in a baseball cap and trends of the day by also being up. Naming the members of the worn out jacket who looked like about how the band 1) were sort group is hard enough for the he was probably some member of of all ninjas (or at least hadn’t real- mildly-initiated, never mind match- the group’s grandfather (or the ized that they weren’t ninjas). Sty- ing voices to each name on their grandfather to several, as I think a listically, the two things that most records, let alone matching the few of the Wu-Tang Clan are cous- distinguished this band from their voice (quite a bit different when ins) on stage throughout the show. West Coast counterparts (not that being yelled live) to the face when The band’s attitude fluctuated be- the Wu was ever involved in any the band is on stage. tween serious and menacing (par- Commentator Sports Page 8 February 22, 2006 All U, All The Time: Law School Reps Dominate All-University Games! CONOR FRENCH ’06 We donned exultant t-shirts that read “Making NYU Look Good The All-University Games consist Since 1835” or “at least we’re not of representative participants on strike.” from each school within New We crafted a boastful ban- ner that hung from the rafters dis- York University competing in playing names of illustrious alumni events ranging from rock such as former city mayors’ Rudy climbing to sumo wrestling to Guiliani and Fiorello LaGuardia (as rock-paper-scissors. As part of a well as well-placed fakes such as Dollar Wars Program, the Perry Mason and Ally McBeal). victorious school earns the right We stomped and cheered as to designate a charity to which our fabled three-on-three basket- all proceeds of the Games are ball once again surged to victory donated. in the night’s first feature event. After beating down the competition, victory in the tug-of-war sealed it for NYU Law students at the All-University Games. But then, something jaw-dropping Jackson, and Steve Cephas (all also became an occasion for brib- drives the Student Lawyer’s Ath- So much for our intra-univer- and wholly unprecedented oc- ’07), our much ballyhooed heroes ery or, perhaps better put, letic Program, Gillian Burgess (’06) sity image as bookish or aloof or curred. For the first time ever, we of the hardwood set the early tone. incentivizing, as diplomatic law and Jim Medek (’07). hermitic or enervated. All of these just kept winning. The first major surprise of students promised to purchase On a night when the spoils quips about the law school’s spirit, Event after event, NYU Law the night, however, arrived with delicious beverages for their more belong to charity, but where the its dynamism and its vitality (not competitors out-balled, out- volleyball. Building upon a plat- entrepreneurial Stern brethren if freewheeling individuality of each to mention its athleticism) were tugged, out-wrestled, out-climbed, form of fall intramural success and they could just eke out a win over school and student is allowed to answered, and answered with out-dodged, and out-RoShamBo- equipped with a deep and able the future dentists. flourish amidst a communal atmo- vigor, on last Thursday night at ed the competition. bench, our volleyball team lead by The greatest individual sphere of good-natured and good- the Jerome S. Coles gymnasium Remarkably, NYU Law Ari Lustbader (’06), Joe Alonzo achievement of the night and likely hearted competition, NYU Law did during the 2006 All-University swept all four team events: bas- (’06), Vin Taurassi (’07), and Matt of this 2006 iteration of the All- itself emphatically proud. Games. Bringing blissful delirium ketball, volleyball, dodgeball, and Bruckner (‘06) emerged from vir- University Games belonged to As my roommate, Doug and swelling pride to the austere tug of war. In basketball, some tual bump-set-and-spike wilder- Andrew Butville (’07). Heitner (’06) said, “sometimes you corridors of Vanderbilt and early scoring from Shauna Burgess ness to notch NYU Law a spec- Other notable achievements gotta put away the casebooks and Furman Halls, this year’s NYU Law (’06) and a furious rally engineered tacular and unexpected victory. during the Games included a dar- bring out the pompoms.” I wish entry took home the coveted ac- by Justin Houghton (’06) from Another first followed in the ing second-place finish by the flex- he said something a bit tougher, colade of All-University Games down 14-10 against the School of turnout for the tug-of-war where ible and fluid Steve Hong (’07) in but the sentiment is still there. Champs in a year when many be- Medicine in the finals ensured that NYU Law’s elusive giants finally the limbo as well as a well-de- Keep it lively and vibrant lieved we just could not do it. NYU Law once again prevailed on joined together for a decisive win. served second-place ranking in the around Washington Square Park In many ways, Thursday’s the parquet. Drawing from the The tug-of-war tie between category of team spirit. For this and and especially come Dean’s Cup Games seemed initially to mirror pool of Dean’s Cup basketball tal- Stern Undergrad and our closest much more, we tip our hats to that time in April, remember that we all previous year’s disappointments. ent including Paige Ammons, Matt competition, the Dental School, diligent two-headed dragon that bleed violet.

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