There isn't a lot of free space

Columbia Film Theory prof James Schamus was profiled in the NYTimes Mag as a standout scholar and screenwriter. Schamus proves his Columbia ties by talking about Plato (“the philosopher’s job is to love knowledge, logos, but it’s always corporealized…”) and smoking near Dodge Hall (“Schamus found a spot in the sun behind Dodge Hall to smoke a cigar”). Professors—they’re just like us! Except for the whole movie career. Anyways, he likes us: “For me,” he said, “the happiest place on earth is a well-run school.” Aw shucks. (NYTimes Mag)

FeelGoodCU, better known as those kids who sell grilled cheeses in JJ’s place, are on CNN. Amarynth Sichel, president of the Columbia chapter, is not only a “devout grilled cheese-maker,” but a much more official sounding “social entrepreneur.” Kudos FeelGooders for doing good and making scrumptious sandwiches! (CNN)

History prof and midnight biking enthusiast Kenneth Jackson is coming out with the second edition of his New York encyclopedia. “People love New York City,” he tells City Room. “This is a physical manifestation of a love affair.” But it wouldn’t be a great love without some drama; some people feel left out… (City Room)

This absolutely adorable article on Bingo fans was featured on the cover of the Metro section yesterday. The author follows Bingo addict Cynthia Kilvan: “Bingo is her fixation, her delight, the center around which her 74-year-old life rotates, as is true of thousands of believers who gravitate to the remaining commercial halls.” After her cancer surgery, Cynthia headed right to the bingo hall. Anywho, turns out a former Columbia math prof played a major role in Cynthia’s favorite past time. Toy salesman Edwin Lowe had faith in the then-fledgling game and enlisted Columbia prof Carl Leffler to “configure more than 6000 different bingo cards.” Apparently, he then went mad from all the combinations. Poor guy. Big thanks, Carl, because Bwog really likes Bingo. (NYTimes)

Big deal news: WikiLeaks, the whistle-blowers version of Wikipedia, released secret American diplomatic cables. (NYTimes)

And here’s something nutty that will make you chuckle. (New Yorker)

Photo via Wikimedia Commons