Should President Obama speak at the University of Notre Dame?

Monday, April 20th, 2009

Recently, the White House announced that President Obama would be the commencement speaker at three universities this spring. One of these universities so happens to be the “University of Notre Dame,” a prestigious Catholic university located in Indiana. Notre Dame will award President Obama with an honorary doctor of laws degree.

What an honor, right? Well not according to “The Cardinal Newman Society,” a group dedicated to renewing the Catholic identity throughout many Catholic institutions. They argue that this is a huge insult to the Catholic community, because President Obama supports many things (i.e. abortion) that go against Catholic beliefs. The Cardinal Newman Society has started an online petition that has collected over 300,000 signatures calling for the University to stop President Obama from speaking at the commencement ceremony.

This is an interesting issue, people. Why would the University of Notre Dame invite President Obama? Could it be that President Obama encourages a nation to not only believe, but cultivate change? Or maybe it’s his exemplification of leadership? And if so, I would argue that is what matters most. In my opinion, if we simply embraced each other’s differences, the world would be a merrier place. It’s cliche, but it’s true.

Listen as Randall Terry, a long-time anti-abortion activist, speaks about why President Obama should not be the commencement speaker for Notre Dame.

A tribute to John Hope Franklin

Friday, April 3rd, 2009

As mentioned in the “Understanding the legacy of John Hope Franklin,” by Nsenga Burton, John Hope Franklin passed away on March 25, 2009. Watch as Tavis Smiley speaks to Franklin about the racism he experienced throughout his life.

Don’t you Twitterstand?

Monday, March 30th, 2009

The Twitter craze is greater than ever, and just like Facebook it WILL consume lives. Check out this animated video that very accurately portrays the influence Twitter has on people, including myself. P.S. Follow me at www.twitter.com/CiaraLilly.

Remember the Power Rangers?

Monday, March 23rd, 2009

As a child, I can remember watching the Power Rangers every now and then, so when I stumbled across this video, I thought it would serve as my dose of nostalgia for the day. Boy, was I mistaken.

When imagination gets you a free pass to an asylum…

Thursday, March 12th, 2009

After watching this video, I am left with one question: When do we draw the line on sensationalism? I am afraid to say that we are entering an era where mannequins, yes mannequins, are being personified. Next, TMZ will be stalking the mannequins at your local mall. You have been warned…

What a cruel prank…

Wednesday, March 11th, 2009

Any other time this prank would have been hilarious, but during this recessional period, I cannot help but to feel bad about laughing. Watch as this innocent guy gets pranked in front of thousands into thinking that he hit the $500,000 shot during halftime, making him instantly wealthy. I am willing to bet that he will never attend another basketball game.

Consumed with free time?

Monday, March 9th, 2009

Check out the modern twist on the rubix cube, the Pentaminx. This puzzle was hand-assembled, with 975 individual parts, and 1,212 stickers that were each placed by hand, totaling 75 hours for completion. Now imagine how long it will take to solve it? If you’re up for the challenge, the puzzle goes on Ebay on March 12.

Ani DiFranco is coming to Charlotte

Friday, March 6th, 2009

On Wednesday, March 11, Ani DiFranco will be performing LIVE at the Neighborhood Theatre. So for all the DiFranco fans out there, this is a must-see event. And for those who are unfamiliar with Ani DiFranco’s music, do not be “shy,” here’s an introductory video. The show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets are currently on sale. $35 for general admission, $55 for VIP.

Nothing but the dog in ya…

Wednesday, February 25th, 2009

George Clinton and the Parliament Funk will be spreading the funk around Charlotte on Saturday, Feb. 28, at 9 p.m. at the Neighborhood Theatre. George Clinton, known for his wild appearance and funky jams, will be sure to leave you, “testing positive 4 the funk.”

Coming to Broadway soon…

Tuesday, February 17th, 2009

If you are a Grease musical fan, this video should delight you. (or NOT!)