On Wednesday, June 14th a group of Republican lawmakers were practicing in a quiet Alexandria, Virginia neighborhood for the annual Congressional baseball charity game when things took a scary turn as a lone gunman attacked them. Five people were injured, including House Majority Whip Steve Scalise. Officers Crystal Griner and David Bailey with the U.S. Capitol Police were both hurt while defending the congressman and other guests at the practice.
Story by Barby Kulakov
Last month, Weymouth Spence, president of Washington Adventist University (WAU); Mikhail Kulakov Jr., professor of religion and director of WAU’s Bible Translation Institute; Zack Plantak, chair of WAU’s Religion Department and Celeste Ryan Blyden, Visitor editor and publisher, joined leaders from the Euro-Asia Division for a groundbreaking ceremony for a new media center that will soon be erected at Zaoksky Adventist Seminary and Institute outside Moscow.
The idea for a new media center, which Spence spearheaded, took form in January at a meeting held in Zaoksky with John Konrad, WGTS 91.9 FM general manager and leaders of the Global Vessels ministry, a U.S.-based charity.
Story by Jerry Woods
Once again WGTS 91.9 listeners showed their support by being a part of the station’s spring fundraiser. Over 3,300 listeners stepped up to contribute more than $1.1 million dollars to keep the listener-supported ministry running strong.
This was the first WGTS fundraiser for the new afternoon team of Johnny and Stacey Stone, and they shared their thoughts on the experience.
“The pre-preparation for this event is unlike any other I’ve seen in my career of fundraising,” says Stacey.
Washington Adventist University’s Music Department Chair, James Bingham, Ph.D., has announced that he is retiring at the end of this academic year. He began teaching in 1968, and has been chair of a music department in various schools for 39 years – 23 of those at Washington Adventist University (WAU).
“It seems right at this point in my life to spend more time with my dear wife, and to retire from active teaching and departmental administration,” said Bingham, who added, “I will no doubt miss the excitement and stimulation of teaching at WAU, and being part of the process of helping the University reach new heights.”
Story by Donna Bigler
Washington Adventist University (WAU) is mourning the death of James William Burns III, an alumnus, former coach of the gymnastics team and head of Physical Education. He passed away last week on April 19 at the age of 84, surrounded by his family. He will long be remembered for his love of life and his positive attitude, as well as his penchant for doing handstands on the roof and his passion for running.