In their first meeting of the spring, the AUSA Senate looked ahead to what needs to be done to have a successful quarter and what initiatives can be taken to get students more involved on campus in the next year.

There were many ideas generated by the Senate for new bills.

However no official business was acted on this meeting.

Chairman of Intercollegiate Athletics Erik Benzel reported that the student athletes will be selling “Pioneer Pride” wristbands for $3 to raise money and awareness about muscular dystrophy.

President Max Goldberg spoke up in support for the athletes in the effort.

He proposed that the Senate purchase 500 wristbands.

The wristbands, which will be donated to and distributed by the Crimson and Gold Club, resemble the yellow Nike Lance Armstrong “Live Strong” bands that have become extremely popular in the last couple of years.

Funding for this project was discussed later in the meeting.

Senators did not agree on where the money would come from, but that the Senate would like to show unified support for the charity and the athletes seemed likely.

“Buying the bands to give to Crimson and Gold is great way for Senate to show support and to help jumpstart this effort by athletics,” said Goldberg.

Goldberg requested meetings with senators to discuss what they hope to accomplish by year’s end.

Benzel also brought up a proposal that would allow all DU students free admission to all athletic events, except hockey, by showing a Pioneer Card at the game.

“Free admission would help to get more students to participate and to have a better turnout at athletic events,” said Benzel. “Other schools have this, and hopefully we can get this started at DU next year.”

Benzel indicated that he is currently working with school officials toward the free admission program and is positive about its potential.

In other news, representatives from the Student Media Board and the DUPB reported that they need new members and interested students should contact the organizations for more information.

Specifically, DUBP is looking for an individual to chair the next Winter Carnival. Applications are due April 1.

Also, requests for funds from several student groups to sponsor open events were brought before the Senate.

Sen. Molly Brown is investigating a request from the Francoscope Club to obtain funding for its annual etiquette dinner for students, while Sen. Aaron Schwarzberg fielded a proposal from the Center for Multicultural Excellence for a “Diversity Summit” here on campus.

These two events will be investigated further before funding is voted on.

Schwarzberg also expressed excitement for the upcoming Snoop Dogg concert, featuring rapper The Game, at Magness Arena on April 17.

“Students can use Flex [cash] to pay for the tickets and once we get the word out this event will explode on campus,” he said.

Schwarzberg is assisting promotion of this event and anticipates tickets will sell out quickly, so students should buy their tickets at the box office now.

In addition, Schwarzberg brought up concern for the hazardous new yield sign at the Sturm crossing on Asbury Avenue.

“People drive fast on this main artery and I feel that somebody is going to get hit if we do not address this soon,” he said.

Goldberg said student safety is the main concern at this intersection.

Appropriate school authorities will be notified to bring attention to this matter.

Senators continued to discuss plans for student activities this quarter and in the future.

The outlook for the quarter seems both optimistic and energetic for the Senate.

Vice President Yusef Malik reported that the campus foosball table has in fact been ordered.

Lastly, Brown reported that a survey to student groups will be going around to assess how well Senate is communicating with and supporting campus organizations.