2014 Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medals

My favorite event this semester was the 2014 Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medals awards ceremony, hosted by the Partnership for Public Service (my internship site). This was a special night that recognizes outstanding federal employees and their accomplishments. 

The "Sammies" ceremony in action.

All the fellows got to attend this event which was really exciting because some of our cohort had done hours and hours of work helping with the event planning and logistics. We got to sit in on the awards and hear all about some of the amazing accomplishments these federal employees achieved. Here is an example:

http://servicetoamericamedals.org/SAM/finalists/nsm/hajjeh.shtml (video in link)

All their stories are really incredible and I loved knowing that I was working for an organization that not only celebrated these stories but encouraged them to be told. Too often, government is blamed for everything going wrong in this country; it was refreshing and inspiring to hear about the things that government is getting right. 

Some of the Partnership fellows at the event.

All the finalists on stage together. 

All dressed up!

"Exceptional People Deserve Special Recognition" 

You can learn more about award winners present and past here online: http://servicetoamericamedals.org/SAM/index.shtml

-Molly Koenig

DC at Dusk

I’ve really come to enjoy exploring DC after dark, both as a way to destress after long days at work and to see the monuments looking their best. Walking the tidal basin to the Jefferson — a neglected monument and one of my favorites — helped me find some perspective the other night, and reflect on the incredible experiences I’ve had thus far in Washington. 

Jefferson seems so far removed from the rest of the mall, and its steps are rarely crowded with camera-happy tourists that gravitate towards the Lincoln and Washington monuments. For as hectic and fast-paced this city is at any given point in the week, Jefferson is refreshingly quiet.  

I think what has been the most interesting adjustment is the pace of life here; Even when I get on the metro at 8:30pm after a long day at work, numerous other young professionals are just then ending their work days. The city is so vibrant, so full of energy, but can be exhausting at the same time. Taking a walk through the monuments is a way for me to hit the pause button and remember why I’m here, how fortunate I am to have this experience, and what all I’ve been able to accomplish. 

- Sarah Montell 

United States Botanic Garden

Several weeks ago, I visited the US Botanic Garden on a blustery Sunday afternoon. Saying it was nice stepping into a climate controlled, aesthetically pleasing environment would have been an understatement that day. I have found that Chicago might have a rival competing for the title of Windy City. Anyway, the Garden was beautiful. It is about half block away from the Capitol Building and is definitely worth a quick side trip before you see your favorite Congresswoman, Senator, etc. In the pictures above and below, you will see some seasonally appropriate fall foliage and sculptures of Washington landmarks. The sculptures are hand carved by a man from Kentucky, who fashions them from various plant materials. Pretty cool display of craftsmanship and patriotism, right?

- Nick Lascu

DONNA!

By Brendan Lin

Entrance to the West Wing

A few of us were lucky enough to visit the White House West Wing two weeks ago, and it was quite the experience. To be honest, it was very humanizing. I'll explain why.

The West Wing is a very small, very comfortable feeling office building. We went at around 8:45pm, when most of the staffers had already gone home. Inside, there are nice soft carpets, wood accents, Dell computers, and soft, vanilla-colored walls. Occasionally there will be white-clad Secret Service officer or two standing by a hallway. It's not very pompous or ornamental, like the inside of the Capitol Building. This is simply where people show up to work, including the President of the United States.

I did get some chills when I recognized areas from famous photographs, including, of course, the Oval Office. It was a bit smaller than I expected, and very neat. Our guide Mary told us that it serves as more of a ceremonial reception area than a functional workplace. The President has a "real" office nearby. We also saw one of the doors to the Situation Room, which, apparently, occupies two floors. It was a smooth wooden door with the Presidential seal next to it. Above the seal were the words "The Situation Room." That was it. I really have no idea why I expected it to be different, but I had always imagined the door of the situation room to be a thick, secure chunk of metal, bank-vault style. To see people just casually walking in and out was sort of jarring.

We also got to see the Rose Garden, the Cabinet Room, the Roosevelt Room, and the Press Room. I was actually impressed by how no-nonsense everything was. It had a sort of subtle pride to it, rather than being flooded with the more pompous decorations that adorn other buildings in D.C. In fact, most of the decorations in the West Wing were simply photographs taken by the West Wing photographer. It was nice. It seems like a comfortable place to work.

Kayaking the Potomac

Seeing the monuments by water has always been a box I’ve wanted to check, and I finally got to do so back in early October. Myself, Molly, Sarah and Ian rented kayaks for $15 — a bargain by DC’s standards — and spend the afternoon paddling around Roosevelt Island. 

Theodore Roosevelt Island, located across from the Kennedy Center and Georgetown in the middle of the Potomac, is an island national memorial dedicated to our 26th president. No cars or bicycles are permitted on the island, which is only accessible via kayak or footbridge from Arlington, VA. Visitors can hike along the various trails and marshes that compose the island, and check out the 17-foot statue of Teddy Roosevelt at its center. 

The statue of Teddy Roosevelt in the center of the island.

After kayaking around the southern tip of the island, we came across one of the most unique vantage points of the city, with the Lincoln, Jefferson, and Washington monuments all at once visible from our kayak seats. The weather was perfection: breezy and sunny, almost reminding me of the kayaking trips I’ve done in the Florida mangroves. Aside from getting an arm and core workout, the afternoon was relaxing and reflective, and such a memorable time with my lovely WAIP friends. 

Obligatory monument selfie! 

From all the various angles I’ve admired the monuments, this is by far my favorite view. Being so far removed from the bustle of the city was an incredibly refreshing way to spend a Sunday, and is a must for DC tourists and residents alike. 

- Sarah Montell 

The Congressional Black Caucus Foundations Annual Legislative Conference

As a part of my government affairs internship with Marathon Petroleum Corporation I had the opportunity to attend the Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference.  Marathon had four employees from their regional offices travel to D.C. to attend the conference on behalf of MPC. The conference consisted of issue forums sponsored by members of the Congressional Black Caucus which focused on encouraging African American involvement in business and the public service sector while fighting the civil and social injustices many African Americans continue to endure. The conference cultivated on Saturday evening with the Phoenix Awards Dinner, a black-tie event, featuring President Barrack Obama as the keynote speaker.

I attended forums with the MPC employees specifically related to energy, science and technology, business and STEM education. My favorite forum was a science and technology Brain Trust emphasizing STEM education and employment sponsored by Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX), Ranking Minority Member of the House Science, Space and Technology Committee. The Brain Trust consisted of two panels: the first, “A Day in the Life,” featured positive role models in the fields of math, engineering and science to share their personal stories of struggle and triumph; and the second, “Diversifying Silicon Valley,” highlighted personal testimonies from prominent STEM businesses to discuss the critical role STEM fields will play in jobs of the future. I found this forum especially interesting because Ohio State’s President Drake was a member of the first panel of speakers. I enjoyed hearing him speak about his medical and professional careers and how he was able to triumph over the struggles he endured along the way. This was the first time I’ve had the opportunity to see President Drake or hear him speak because I have not been in Columbus since he began his tenure as President and I’m glad I was able to attend this forum and learn about him before I graduate from Ohio State this December.

The MPC employees and I were also given a personal tour of the Capitol Building led by a member of Congressman Randy Weber’s (R-TX) staff. The tour consisted of the Crypt, the Rotunda, the old Supreme Court room, the old Senate chambers, and the Hall of Statues. In addition, MPC employees were given the special privilege of standing on Speaker John Boehner’s (R-OH) balcony which overlooks the Capitol Hill reflecting pool and the National Mall.

 

The view from Speaker Boehner's Capitol Building office balcony.

 

Saturday evening concluded the conference with the extravagant Phoenix Awards Dinner to celebrate individuals who have positively impacted the African American community. President Obama delivered the keynote address where he acknowledged his esteemed colleague, former Attorney General Eric Holder, for his notable effort to eliminate the social injustices facing the African American community. Holder, who was amongst audience members, received a warm round of applause. I am truly grateful I was able to attend the CBC ALC. I was inspired by all the personal stories about hard-working and accomplished individuals who endured hardships throughout their careers but still managed to prosper and now dedicate their lives to helping others do the same. I also really enjoyed hearing President Obama speak at the Phoenix Awards Dinner and I hope to attend the conference again in the future.  

This is me, right before I went to the Phoenix Awards Dinner with keynote speaker, President Obama.

 

-Sarah Spaulding

The White House, the National Zoo, and D.C. Cupcakes

A couple weeks ago I had the opportunity to join Sarah, Molly, Jen and Katie on a tour of the White House Gardens. The tour consisted of the Jackie Kennedy Garden, the Rose Garden, the Vegetable Garden, and the Kitchen Garden.  We also saw the Beehive which supplies honey to the White House kitchen. Along the path pictures and plaques were displayed in front of trees and plants to depict which President or First Lady had planted them. I was not aware of this White House tradition and I found it very interesting. I enjoyed seeing how different Presidents and First Ladies had contributed to the grounds over time as it grew into the amazing garden present today. I also liked the pictures of President Obama and his family playing on the South Lawn.  The gardens were beautiful and the experience was truly one to be remembered.

After the tour, Sarah Montell, Katie and I decided to take advantage of the beautiful day and went to the National Zoo. All the animals were awake and lively which made for a very entertaining afternoon. The lions were especially fun to watch as the three cubs rambunctiously played and fought with each other. My favorite part of the Zoo was the elephant exhibit where we watched an elephant drink water with its trunk and heard it make a loud elephant noise. Unfortunately, the panda was rather hard to see as he sat perched in a tree hidden behind the branches and leaves. Even so, we had a very enjoyable time at the zoo.

 

To finish our day, Sarah, Katie and I decided to go to Georgetown and try the famous Georgetown Cupcakes, known on TLC as D.C. Cupcakes. When we arrived the line was wrapped around the side of the building, but the cupcakes were worth the wait. I ordered three cupcakes: Vanilla Birthday Cake, Chocolate Ganache, and Salted Caramel. While all three were very delicious, my favorite was the Salted Caramel. I will definitely be making my way back to Georgetown for more cupcakes, soon! I had a great time running around Washington, DC and exploring parts of the city I have never seen before. The WAIP program has opened my eyes to new experiences and I am eager to continue discovering the vast culture and life DC has to offer.

 

 

 

-Sarah Spaulding

 

Hirshhorn Gallery: experiencing infinite space and endless time -Matt Noonan

Nov 1, 2014

Washington D.C is an extremely busy place, I love this aspect, but where can you go for some quiet self reflection?

The Smithsonian Hirshhorn Museum of Contemporary and Modern Art is a fascinating place for both art lovers and not alike. From the installations to the sounds and light of the galleries, the Hirshhorn invites you to unplug from the political world and float within the free form galleries. The building itself, shaped like a camera lens, even subconsciously forces thought in a different way. 

While I could not tell you the difference between any two installations, the artists, or the time frame. I really appreciate the surface aspects of modern art. The featured gallery- Infinite Space and Endless Time seeks to question the differences between what the eyes see and what the mind perceives to be there. There are whole rooms dedicated to one piece, a basement gallery on sleds, and a video series, all asking questions of the human experience. The pieces themselves are interesting, but if you have the time, I found myself staring at or into several pieces. 

Surrounding the museum is a sculpture garden where, if it was not 45 degrees the day I visited, would be a wonderful place to have a picnic, lay in the grass, or view one of the many events the Smithsonian Institute holds there. I spent several hours in one gallery where I found a useable couch (not art), reading a book and writing this post. 

For some, the Hirshhorn galleries present an experience. For the rest of us, it is a great place for self-reflection and good place to spend a quiet afternoon in a busy city of money, power, and time. 

-Matt Noonan

The Truth Shall Make You Free -- Thomas Phillips Post #1

"FIRE - GREATEST OF DISCOVERIES 

ENABLING MAN TO LIVE IN VARIOUS CLIMATES 

USE MANY FOODS - AND COMPEL THE  

FORCES OF NATURE TO DO HIS WORK 

ELECTRICITY - CARRIER OF LIGHT AND POWER 

DEVOURER OF TIME AND SPACE - BEARER 

OF HUMAN SPEECH OVER LAND AND SEA  

GREATEST SERVANT OF MAN - ITSELF UNKNOWN

THOU HAST PUT ALL THINGS UNDER HIS FEET 

SWEETENER OF HUT AND HALL
BRINGER OF LIFE OUT OF NAUGHT
FREEDOM O FAIREST OF ALL
THE DAUGHTERS OF TIME AND THOUGHT

MAN'S IMAGINATION HAS CONCEIVED
ALL NUMBERS AND LETTERS - ALL TOOLS VESSELS
AND SHELTERS - EVERY ART AND TRADE - ALL

PHILOSOPHY AND POETRY - AND ALL POLITIES

THE TRUTH SHALL MAKE YOU FREE

THE FARM - BEST HOME OF THE FAMILY
MAIN SOURCE OF NATIONAL WEALTH
FOUNDATION OF CIVILIZED SOCIETY
THE NATURAL PROVIDENCE 

THE OLD MECHANIC ARTS - CONTROLLING NEW 

FORCES - BUILD NEW HIGHWAYS FOR GOODS 

AND MEN - OVERRIDE THE OCEAN - AND MAKE 

THE VERY ETHER CARRY HUMAN THOUGHT 

THE DESERT SHALL REJOICE AND BLOSSOM 

AS THE ROSE

Above is a picture of my favorite place in Washington, D.C. -- Union Station. I love to sit outside and look up at the architecture, particularly focusing on the facade above the pavilion. I love reading the inscriptions (which I also included above) and contemplating the greatness of humanity, and our accomplishments. These quotes are accompanied by massive figures, each depicting one of the inscribed phrases.  For instance, on one side, Fire is depicted by a statue of Prometheus, and Electricity by Thales. On the other side, Ceres represents Agriculture and Archimedes serves to depict Mechanics. The two figures in the middle are abstract, and represent Freedom and Imagination.

Because Union Station is the railroad hub in DC, the design was created to focus on the powers that brought the railroad, and subsequently the nation, to new great heights. Fire and Electricity drove the production of the railroad, and with the railroad came greater opportunities for agriculture and industry. The middle two panels are most important, however, and in a very, old book about the design that I came across, it says, "the central figures typify the atmosphere of freedom in which the inventive imagination has been able to accomplish such great results."

It is for this reason that Union Station is my favorite place in Washington, DC. Because while there are many monuments to specific individuals, and other monuments that honor the great valor of men and women in this nation -- this building acts as a functioning hub of transportation and commerce. It was produced because of the great liberty and opportunity that our nation affords its citizens, and it stands today in praise of our Freedom and Imagination.