Anna Epstein

More by Anna Epstein

GOP: Supporter of Freedom, Equality, and Gay Marriage?

3/5/2013

 As a proud supporter of the GOP, I have a hard time hearing the ongoing criticisms over the party’s efforts to resonate with a younger base. Although I realize the turnout during Romney’s unsuccessful 2012 bid indicates a real need for revaluation, it infuriates me to hear the assumption that all Republicans must be “stuck in the past.” Many of my peers are often surprised to hear that I can identify with such a “backwards” party, especially when it comes to one of the most salient issues of my generation: same-sex marriage.

            It is no secret that our country has experienced a dramatic shift in attitudes toward same-sex marriage over the past few decades. According to a recent New York Times article by Sheryl Gay Stolberg, the number of Americans in favor of same-sex marriage has increased from roughly one-third to over one-half in just the past ten years. There is no hiding behind the fact that the majority of Republicans lag behind in this attitude. But, here’s a figure most Americans don’t know: the latest New York Times survey reported a third of Republicans in favor of allowing gay people to marry. Ok, so there are Republicans who favor same-sex marriage. But what are they actually doing about it?

No Deal, No Break

2/8/2013

If you’ve paid any attention to the media lately, it comes as no surprise that partisanship has made Washington come dangerously close to several critical deadlines. There was of course the Fiscal Cliff ordeal in December, where Hill staffers spent all of New Years Eve working on a deal. Now, over the next several months, Congress looks toward March 1 for the sequestration, March 27 for the expiration of funding for fiscal 2013, April 15 for budget approvals, and May 19 for yet another crack at the debt ceiling. As our elected officials in Washington face these looming deadlines, one would think that Republicans and Democrats are working around the clock to come together on a deal. Think again.

            David M. Walker, former U.S. comptroller general, wrote an interesting piece in Politico this week showcasing the need for elected officials to “remain open for business and on the job.” Walker is now CEO of the Comeback America Initiative, a campaign with a Facebook petition insisting that Congress works full time during the week in Washington. Although Walker explains that he understands the importance of representatives returning home to meet with constituents and loved-ones, he explains that our serious fiscal situation warrants more time in the office.

Oak Street Po-Boy Festival

11/16/2012

Check out one of New Orleans’ most anticipated fests of the year this weekend at the Oak Street Po-Boy Festival sponsored by Abita. This year will feature more room to walk around, an improved VIP area, 2nd bike corral, and a cozy dining area. Boasting over 30 food vendors, two live music stages, and panel discussions covering the history of the famous sandwich, Po-Boy Fest is sure to be a good time!

Click here to find out more information.

3rd Annual New Orleans on Tap

11/8/2012

Help support Louisiana SPCA while tasting a wide variety of beers this weekend at NOLA on Tap in City Park! There will be over 200 beers to sample, from Abita Purple Haze to Tin Roof Voodoo Bengal Pale Ale. This exciting event will also feature food and non-beer drinks. Must be 21 to purchase tickets and sample.

 

Visit the event site for more information and to purchase advance discount tickets.

1st Annual Ghoulwill Ball

10/19/2012

Where: Generations Hall, 310 Andrew Higgins Drive

Grab your best Halloween costume or cocktail attire this weekend and come out to Goodwill of Southeastern Louisiana’s 1st Annual Ghoulwill Ball. This Halloween fundraiser will benefit Goodwill’s employment, training, and education services for those with disabilities or other barriers to employment. This exciting event is sure to be a great time with live music, food, silent auction, and a costume contest judged by local celebrities.

Click here for more information and ticket sales.

Gretna Heritage Festival

10/2/2012

Head across the Mississippi this weekend to check out this festival featuring music from over 75 local and international performers, including Big & Rich, Foreigner, and Cowboy Troy. Gretna Fest boasts seven sound stages, a giant dining tent with over 150 dishes, a German Beer Garden, an Italian Village, rides and games, and arts and crafts. This festival, presented by the Gretna Development Association, will help provide non-profits with extra cash.

For more information, visit the fest’s website where you can purchase tickets online, view a map of the grounds layout, and preview some of the products to be sold at the festival.

Replacement Blood Drive for Devon Walker

9/21/2012

This Tuesday, the Tulane community will come together to donate blood in support of the Green Wave football team’s recently injured safety, Devon Walker. The Blood Center of New Orleans will make a financial contribution to help Devon and his family bear the costs of his surgery and recovery for every blood donor on this day.


In order to donate, the Blood Center requires each donor to bring a picture ID and weigh 100 lbs. Don’t forget to eat a good meal and make sure you’re feeling well before heading over to the bloodmobile. For more information, visit The Blood Center’s website.

JazzFest 2012: Weekend #1

4/26/2012


Head to the Fair Grounds this weekend for one of New Orleans’ most famous festivals!  The JazzFest lineup is sure to impress as it features a variety of artists for a wide host of musical tastes. The headliners of this first weekend are the Beach Boys and Bon Iver on Friday night, Tom Petty, Cee Lo Green, and Feist on Saturday night, and Bruce Springsteen, Janelle Monae, and Al Green on Sunday night. Don’t forget to check out some of New Orleans’ favorites, such as Soul Rebels, Trombone Shorty, and DJ Soul Sister. Another exciting thing about this year’s festival is the free shuttle that Tulane is offering. Check out this doc for more info.
 
Tickets are available at the Gate for $65 and online.

JazzFest 2012: Weekend #1

4/26/2012


Head to the Fair Grounds this weekend for one of New Orleans’ most famous festivals!  The JazzFest lineup is sure to impress as it features a variety of artists for a wide host of musical tastes. The headliners of this first weekend are the Beach Boys and Bon Iver on Friday night, Tom Petty, Cee Lo Green, and Feist on Saturday night, and Bruce Springsteen, Janelle Monae, and Al Green on Sunday night. Don’t forget to check out some of New Orleans’ favorites, such as Soul Rebels, Trombone Shorty, and DJ Soul Sister. Another exciting thing about this year’s festival is the free shuttle that Tulane is offering. Check out this doc for more info.
 
Tickets are available at the Gate for $65 and online.

JazzFest 2012: Weekend #1

4/26/2012


Head to the Fair Grounds this weekend for one of New Orleans’ most famous festivals!  The JazzFest lineup is sure to impress as it features a variety of artists for a wide host of musical tastes. The headliners of this first weekend are the Beach Boys and Bon Iver on Friday night, Tom Petty, Cee Lo Green, and Feist on Saturday night, and Bruce Springsteen, Janelle Monae, and Al Green on Sunday night. Don’t forget to check out some of New Orleans’ favorites, such as Soul Rebels, Trombone Shorty, and DJ Soul Sister. Another exciting thing about this year’s festival is the free shuttle that Tulane is offering. Check out this doc for more info.
 
Tickets are available at the Gate for $65 and online.