Twilight-mania!

Over the summer a lot changed. A lot changed in the world, and a lot changed with me. Maybe another day I will give my commentary on the world events, but tonight i want to talk about me, and Twilight. No, I am not talking about that time right before darkness falls, but the extraordinarily popular book series.

Before August, Twilight books had barely registered on my radar. I was much too involved in my romance novels, (those are a whole other story) which are legit in their own right. Two of my best friends had mentioned some sort of craziness about vampires and werewolves in these amazing books, but these same friends are obsessed with Harry Potter so I quietly dismissed their ideas. That is until the last week of August when i had finished all the romance novels i had and was desperate for something new. I finally caved, and asked if i could borrow Twilight, the first part of the series. And i was never the same...

I could dive into all the fascinating aspects of the book, the characters, and the sheer AMAZINGNESS of my Twilight experience, but then this post would never end. So i will just say it was epic. I finished this 500 page book in about 2 days. It didn't take long for me to get caught up in the story. I had finished the series within the week. I was so caught up in the books that i didn't really think about why i loved them so much. Now, a month later i have cleared my mind, somewhat, and have really thought through the appeal of this book that is turning out to be as popular as Harry Potter.

What the Twilight series represents, for me at least, is my every dream. This may seem strange considering there are several near-death experiences, heartbreak, and challenges faced by everyone in the book. However, the love between Edward and Bella is that of a fantasy. It may be dangerous, wrong, and go against everything these two people know, but they can't help themselves. This is what makes it so special. There is a passion that both Edward and Bella thirst for, whether they want to or not. This passion that drives the book for over 2000 pages in the series is what almost every girl dreams of, and is something i have hoped for since my pubescent life.

This series has sparked a fire in the youth of our country. The danger and the passion of these two "people" has started a phenomenon, and as much as i was hoping to stand against the conformity, i am so glad i read these books this summer because it has fulfilled my desire for my own "perfect romance" which has seemed to have escaped me thus far and let me into the world of people far more fascinating than myself. Not to mention the super gorgeous and romantic Edward i have conjured up in my mind. Now i hope i can just wait patiently for the Movie coming out in November!!!!

Goodbye Seniors

Saying goodbye to the seniors this year was harder than i imagined it would be. There were so many that touched my life over the past three years and so many who i looked up to, had fun with, and shared great memories with. I was in classes with many seniors this year. The day after they were all gone, there was a quietness in the classes. It wasn't necessarily sad, but different. I didn't realize how often i talked to seniors everyday and how much i interacted with them. I also didn't realize how much i would miss them.

The seniors that were a part of the tennis team will be especially missed. They were the ones i was closest to and who i spent the most time with. They have taught me so much about how to be a good person and how to be a good leader, it is hard to imagine the kind of person i would have been without them. We have been through a state runner-up, a state championship, and a bitter loss in the regional finals together. I feel like we can really understand each other and we relate to each other on so many levels that we have become closer than most teammates ever will. It is for these reasons that moving on next season without them will be such a challenge. Not only will we have to keep playing with the loss of such special friends, but without the leadership some of us have come to depend on.

The seniors i have had in classes are also missed, well most of them. The seniors were the ones who felt comfortable cracking jokes which made class much more interesting. They were also the ones with the best stories. Most of the seniors i had in my classes also were the ones who would answer the questions no one else wanted to. This shows their leadership and their confidence. The seniors this year that i am friends with made classes interesting, made sports special, and taught me what it is to be a leader to the underclassmen below me.

Sex and the City, please don't disappoint!

Sex and the City is finally coming to theatres. Devoted viewers were saddended by the end of a favorite television show, but now, some 5 years later the girls of Sex and the City are finally returning. I was too young to watch the show when it was on television and i didn't have HBO, which was a problem. However, i became a devoted fan when the show started being played on TBS. With the funny, yet sometimes inappropriate, story lines and the amazing clothes, I loved it. And so far it seems that i am not the only one.

The previews for the SATC movie have been appearing in theatres and on the Internet for a quite some time. From the first preview i saw, i knew the movie would be wonderful. With Mr.
Big and Carrie finally together, how could it not? However, this mentality could lead to disappointment. I am always afraid to get too excited for things. Thinking something will be amazing and anticipating too much usually ends up with someone being disappointed. I am afraid, with all the press surrounding the movie, that this will be the case. I am worried that everybody is getting too excited and ultimately, the only possible outcome is criticism and disappointment. Of course i do not want this to be the case, yet i have begun thinking this is what will happen.

This kind of thing has happened to me before. For example, everyone told me how amazing this restaurant, Hickory Park was, and although it was wonderful, it didn't blow my mind. I couldn't help but be a little disappointed. This is what may happen with SATC. Not only that, but every body's ideas of happy endings is different. In my version of a happy ending in the movie, i see Carrie and Big together, Charlotte happily married with kids, Miranda happily married, and Samantha still being the cougar she is. However some people may not want Carrie and Big together, or Samantha with one man. All I can hope is that in this much anticipated movie i find something like the happy ending i imagined.

Severe Weather

Severe weather seems to be popular here in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Even if we're not experiencing it, we seem to hear about it all the time. Our KCRG-TV9 First Alert Storm Team (that's a mouthful) make sure, if there is a storm within a 500 mile radius, we know about it. At least it feels that way. And heaven forbid there are lightning strikes within our viewing area, the storm team makes sure we know about it while simultaneously cutting off our favorite prime time shows. As you can tell, i am not a fan of these practices.

I may be considered a pretty independent person, but all i really need to know from my weather channel is a) when the tornado sirens are going off and b) when school is cancelled for snow. All these other alerts and warnings seem insignificant to me. I am not trying to devalue the weathermen, because they do have an important job, but i don't need to know everything that is happening in our weather system, especially during Grey's Anatomy. This may appear as ignorance to many people, but it is really me expressing my views on what is necessary and unnecessary information. Basically, i value my time, and i don't want it to be wasted by weathermen claiming that i am in danger when the Doppler radar clearly contradicts what they are saying.

It is only the beginning of the severe weather season so i know i am in for a lot of long, insufferable nights of annoying weathermen. But it still doesn't make me want to complain less or actually do something, like leave the couch, to change the situation. Because honestly, it is way more fun to rant on my blog than to change the channel or turn off the television. :)

What AM I doing with my life???

It is coming to that time of year when everything is winding down at school and half my classes involve watching a movie or doing absolutely nothing, i find myself losing my drive. I know it may seem unbelievable, but when teachers start expecting less of me, i tend to, in fact, do less. This is not a bad thing necessarily. I love having weekends and evenings free for the enjoyment of such things as Grey's Anatomy, Facebook, and You Tube, but i can only stand so much idle activity. It almost makes me miss those rushed nights and the accomplished feeling of getting a worksheet done, knowing that i will get an A. But the key word is "ALMOST."

The lovely times i have spent not actually doing anything are some of my favorite. For example, there are many times when i can sit down on the couch and watch an America's Next Top Model marathon on MTV. Though it may not be the most cultured of activities, it can be quite entertaining, especially the cat fights and Tyra Banks thinking she still is the best model in the world...haha. Another enjoyable activity is watching the grass grow. Okay, not really, but i might as well have. Between watching the "Bluhud" video on you tube (you should check it out,) and facebook stalking people i haven't seen for a couple years, my time is beginning to feel like a big waste, and it is not even summer yet!

Obviously, my summer break will full of exciting things. Luckily i have a few vacations to keep me active and my sports. I honestly hope i will never have to experience this wasted time again, because i much prefer the hustle and bustle of school work to this meaningless existence i am experiencing now.

Jonas Mania

Lately, it seems like the world is being taken over by the Jonas Brothers. This unique group of three brothers hopped on the music scene, almost without notice, with the song Year 3000. Though it embarrasses me, i must admit that i did download this cheesy, yet lovable song. Ever since this song became popular on the ever so popular Disney Channel, the young hearts of girls all across the world have been captured.

The first time i heard the Jonas Brothers i believed them to be just a short-lived group promoted by Disney in an effort to make money. They were cute and somewhat talented, but nothing about them really impressed me. Then i would find myself singing or humming their song, Year 3000. The turning point for me was when i heard the song S.O.S. on a popular radio station one night. The song was catchy, fun, and something i could sing to (though never for anyone to hear.) I couldn't believe this song that i fell in love with was the work of the three young men i had once scoffed at. From then on, i was a major Jonas Brothers fan.

Today, the three men, all under the age of 25, are extremely successful, not just in the Disney channel demographic, but on popular radio and television. This summer they will be releasing their first made for TV movie on Disney called Camp Rock. It looks like a pretty pathetic movie, but i know that i will have to watch it at one time or another. Their newest CD is set to release sometime soon, and they are even going to put out a concert into movie theatres like the Disney princess, Miley Cyrus. If everything goes well, the Jonas Brothers could become a serious phenomenon in the pop culture of young generations.

Partners

Partners are difficult. Sometimes they are necessary and a joy to have at your side; other times it may feel like they are slowing you down or holding you back. Anyone who has been in a partnership before knows these issues. At times you feel that being alone may have allowed you to succeed more. One may think that having a partner only forced them to work harder and carry the slack for another person as well as their own. When times like these arise, it can feel difficult to continue on and keep working. Communication may stop at this point, only aggravating the situation more. This kind of partnership is unhealthy for both parties. The "hard worker" may feel animosity and anger towards their partner. The "slacker" may feel guilt about their lack of effort of anger at being thought less of. This may arise in a partnership, but what about all those times partners come in handy???

Partners can be a gift from the heavens at times; i know this first hand. For example, on the tennis court while playing doubles i may miss a volley at the net, and almost always my wonderful partner is there to return my missed shot. This is also true in school work. If i am going to be busy for many days during a project, having a partner, or many partners, is EXTREMELY helpful. It can be comforting to know that someone is their to help you in a difficult situation, or save you from a potentially embarrassing or distressing time.

Obviously partners can have their negative and positive aspects, there is no doubt we all must work with someone else at one time or another, whether we want to or not. This means, to succeed, we all must learn to make the best of bad partnerships and strive to create good ones. Because sometimes, nothing is more comforting than the knowledge of there being a strong supportive partner at your back to help when your in need.

Mr. Archuleta

David Archuleta is a gift from God; at least that is how i feel. His voice is so natural and commanding it is unbelievable. Ever since the first time i heard him sing, i knew he was something spectacular. At only 17-years-old, David has beat out an insane number of competitors, and is looking to do so again tonight in an effort to win the title of this years American Idol. In my mind, there is no excuse for why David Cook should win. Though he is talented and has a special quality on stage, Archuleta takes talent to a whole new level.

David Archuleta is young and gifted, but for some reason many people, including my mother, prefer Cook. This boggles my mind. I have tried to explain over and over again about the differences in quality of sound between the two contestants. However, it seems to go one in ear and out the other. What can possibly be seen in Cook that makes him more appealing than Archuleta? This question rang through my head many times and i could not find the practical answer.

Finally while watching the season finale tonight i think i found my answer. Though i will forever be devoted to Archuleta, he has this quite and sweet innocence about him which can almost come off as being fake or insincere. I never have seen it this way, but i can understand how others could. Also, as my mother reminds me every time he sings, Archuleta is outrageously young. 17 years is not a lot to gain experience and know-how, but in my mind Archuleta has the entire package. If someone is given a gift, it shouldn't matter how young that person is when they begin to showcase it. Archuleta is amazing in so many ways, and i can't wait to see the results tomorrow night. Archuleta should win, but the exciting thing about reality TV is that you just never know what will happen next.

STATE!!!

For a high school athlete, the whole season comes down to qualifying for state. The long practices, the running, the frustrations are all a part of the athletic experience, and are all worth the effort if you can make it to state. For adults, or those who do not play sports, the accomplishment may sound small and unworthy of a blog entry. But believe me, there is nothing more exciting than playing in a match that will secure you a place at the state tournament. That is precisely what my doubles partner, Megan, and I did yesterday at the tennis regional competition.

I have been a member of the varsity tennis team for three years. The first year i was only a part of the team when one player got hurt. I stepped in for about six weeks and was not able to participate directly in the state tournament. Sophomore year, I played number 6 singles and our team won state. However, at the individual regionals i did not make it past the first round. This year, my junior year, i have finally accomplished something i have been working towards for nearly 3 years. I finally will be traveling to Ames to compete in the individual state competition.
Not only that, but i get to do it with one of my best friends.

Megan and i started our friendship in competition. Freshman and Sophomore year we challenged each other dozens of times in hopes of landing a spot on the varsity team. She "won" freshman year by making herself part of the number three doubles team. I "won" sophomore year by playing number six, however she still played number three doubles. This year, there is far less competition because we both play varsity, and we have to work together as a doubles team. This is not always easy because sometimes we get frustrated with each other, or ourselves, and get angry. But overall we are a good team, and i can't wait to show off our skills at the state meet in two weeks!

Glasses

I have recently learned that i will be needing glasses in the near future. I never thought it would happen to me. I truly believed i would go through all my life having the perfect vision i had as a child, but that dream was shattered when i realized the board at school was getting blurry and reading distant road signs while driving was no longer done with the ease it once was. Discovering that my vision was faltering was disapointing, to say the least. I ate my carrots as a child (which are supposed to help your vision) and even though i read a lot as a child, and still do today, i never read in less than suitable light. So why will i be burdened with the weight of glasses?

Glasses can look good on many people, and usually do, but i am worried that i wont be able to pull them off. Being new to glasses and all worries me because i have never been seen with anything but extremely chic sunglasses. What will my friends think? What will they say? If they dont like my glasses, will they tell me? These questions haunt me when i am idle and have time to think. Not knowing the true answer haunts me even more.

Glasses are not necessarily a bad thing. They are going to help me read things more clearly and get rid of some of my headaches. This is good because it will help me read and perform in school as well as make me more comfortable. Luckily, the negative stereotype with glasses has also gone. In elementary school, glasses are not cool. Thankfully as the years have progressed they can be fun, chic, and give me a smart look...i hope. Although it was sad to learn that my eyes were growing weak and i could no longer claim to have perfect vision, i am hoping that everything works out (and no one laughs at my glasses :))

Time for Priorities

This last term of my junior year is becoming increasingly stressful. With my focus divided between looking for colleges, doing my schoolwork, and doing it well, as well as my tennis season, life is kind of crazy for me. I have always been the kind of person who would stress out about the smallest things, such as, my shoes don't match my outfit...AHHHHH. This would be funny if it wasn't the truth. Right now i can't seem to handle the multitude of pressures facing me in my daily life, as well as sleep and eat. I am forced to make choices and set priorities.

"Priorities" is a dreaded word in my vocabulary. It means making decisions and putting things in order of importance. It also means that sometimes i don't always get every thing done. This is the worst feeling in the world. I have a terrible time of walking into a classroom or stepping onto the court knowing that i have not properly prepared for whatever i have been asked to do. Though i hate this feeling, i have many other important things to consider. Things that go beyond the spring term and even beyond high school.

College, in general, is perhaps the biggest stressor in my life. It is always in the back of my mind, and i can't help but think about the implications of my actions and decisions in terms of college. Almost everything i do in school is related to my post-secondary education and every shortcoming is seen as limiting my chances of getting into my number one college choice. I understand the craziness of this thinking, and yet, it still bothers me on a daily basis. Everything i am doing, everything i am working on, every homework assignment is getting me one step closer to my future at a university or college, and that takes me one step closer to my dreams.

I can't seem to escape stress and i can't seem to beat it, so i will continue to live with it. I have for many years, and i only anticipate it getting worse. However, if the stress is what drives me and keeps me going then it is all right with me. I will decide on what is important and make priorities. I will deal with the stress from this term in the most productive way i can, but that doesn't mean i can't count the days until summer vacation...does it?

Oh Paula...

American Idol is one of Americas most beloved television shows. Though, it does not have a perfect record for discovering the stars of tomorrow (cough,cough...Reuben what's his name and Taylor Hicks). But it is a never ending hour or two of entertainment. In my opinion, the only thing that needs to happen to make this show even better, is to replace the weak link...which is Paula Abdul. Sure, she may be funny sometimes, but its usually only us laughing at her as opposed to with her. Her latest slip-up proves once and for all that something needs to be done.

On the show Tuesday night, Paula accidentally revealed her secret to the world. She writes down her comments for each performer during the rehearsals and uses them during the live performance. This was extremely hard for me to believe because she always seems so inarticulate during the show. You would think that having a script in front of you may help you say what you want to say. Apparently not for Paula. On Tuesday, she critiqued Jason, one performer, on both of his songs after only one of them. She tried her best to cover up her mistake, but the damage was done. America now knew the live show was not as genuine as they thought.

This is just one time when Paula has interrupted my enjoyment of the American Idol experience. Her usual drunk disposition and awkward comments has continually left me wishing that she was simply not a part of the show at all. She has only tarnished the reputation of American Idol with these shenanigans. Her presence over the years, and apparently her speech abilities has only gotten worse, i just hope she gets her act together soon, or gets out.

Gossip Girl

Gossip Girl is one of the most popular shows on the CW network, and all around popular with teens and "tweens" around the nation. It tells the story of the charmed life of the upper east side teenagers living in New York City, as well as a family who lives a less than charmed life in Brooklyn. The lives of these kids is so departed from anything resembling normalcy in the lives of me and my friends, that i can't help but be entranced by it. Everything from the clothing to the partying of these people who are supposed to be my age, but i suspect they are at least 24. For fun, the guys may stay in their hotel suites and hire "adult entertainment," and the girls head to the most popular clubs and sip cocktails. Not exactly what it is like here in CR, and that is what makes the show so entertaining.

Although the lives of these upper east siders may seem completely detached from reality, they still seem to face a few similar conflicts as all teenagers do. For example, they were stressing over their upcoming SAT test in the last episode which is something that almost any junior in high school can relate to. One couple on the show is also dealing with being in a relationship when they don't have any of the same friends and come from completely different worlds. There are numerous other examples of normal circumstances in the show, but what makes it exceptional is the way Gossip Girl takes these realities to the extreme until they become almost unbelievable.

This is what i feel makes a great television program. When you feel you can relate to the show in some ways, but not too much so you get bored and turn off the television. There is a careful balance between relatability and tedium. Gossip girl is not boring because though the basic, underlying story may seem normal, the circumstances, the setting, and the characters take the storyline to a whole other place. Even though, at times, the show may seem almost unbelievable i know i will continue watching because that is the very reason it is enjoyable to watch.

What Would You Do?

I recently watched a special on ABC called, "What Would You Do?" This program was focused on sometimes awkward public situations and peoples reactions. The first part of the program was asking what would you do if there was a child standing alone on a busy street, with no obvious parents or guardians near, looking lost. At first glance i was shocked by the findings, but upon further contemplation, i found myself realizing how much truth there was in the experiment's results.

The findings from the experiment showed that most people would walk right by the child. When a passerby was asked why the walked past the child they replied, "I thought the parent was probably close." This makes sense, but i was still surprised that so few people stopped to help the 7-8 year-old children. It got even more unbelievable when the child began crying and asking people for help, yet many still walked right by. During a commercial break, i tried to convince myself that i would be above that kind of thing, and OF COURSE i would stop to help the poor lost child. Then, i began to catch myself in the lie. I really don't think i would stop. But why? What would make me, as well as so many other people keep walking?

The first thought that comes to mind is the desire to avoid a potentially awkward situation. For instance, what if i did stop to help the child, and the parent came up and accused me of trying to do something bad, or what if they got mad? Then i would feel ashamed, as if i did something wrong, and i will go to great measures to avoid that from happening. Another possibility is that i convince myself that the parent/guardian really is near by, and the likelihood of anything bad happening to the child in those few minutes they are alone is slim to none. These are the kind of thoughts that would cross my mind. I don't think that makes me a bad or irresponsible person, but next time i see a child alone on a street, i might take a few extra seconds to think about the implications of my actions. Maybe, just maybe, i wont keep on walking next time.

The Places Movies Take Me

I just finished watching The Other Boleyn Girl about an hour ago, and loved it. However, i cannot claim to be the most critical critic of cinema because i can usually find something good about almost every movie i have seen. On only a few rare occasions have i walked out of a movie theatre or turned off my television feeling like i wasted two hours of my life, with the exception of Meet the Spartans which was TERRIBLE!. The basic fact is, i love movies. Whether they are old or new, black and white or colored, historical or slapstickk funny. Movies have the amazing capability to take us as viewers anywhere we want to go, if we let our imaginations go there.

While walking out of the theatre of The Other Boleyn Girl it was like stepping out of a world so different from our own, into the harsh and bitterly cold rain of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. It was as if when i took those few steps from the theatre to my car, i not only crossed the street, but crossed into the dull, and sometimes frustrating reality of my life. This is why movies are so entertaining for me, and maybe some others. In a movie theatre, we are allowed, with exceptional movies, to witness the excitement that we feel life should be giving us. We watch the body language and listen to the dialogue as if it were a study of some sort. For me, i like to imagine what i would do if i was one of the characters. In The Other Boleyn Girl, i get to imagine what i would do to win the affections of a king. This can be done with books and television too, but there is something more powerful about a movie. In the darkened theatre, our senses become overwhelmed by the sites and the sounds of the story playing out in front of uson the huge screen.

In every movie from The Other Boelyn Girl to Talladega Nights to Finding Nemo there is special feeling one can get from the movies. When i itruly love a movie, i feel like i could watch it over and over again and never tire of it, and sometimes that is true. But whether or not a movie is my favorite or not, i can (almost) always find something to love about the cinematic experience and the places it can take me.

Weekends

Friday's were once a favorite day of mine in the elementary and middle school phases of my life, but now that i have been in high school for nearly three years, i have learned that Friday's are almost worse than Mondays. Yes, i know that may sound like an overstatement, but look at it this way: Friday is the day teachers LOVE giving tests. This is something i don't quite understand because it seems like they would have to spend their weekends correcting tests, but that is apparently not so bad because Friday is the test day of choice for majority of teachers. Teachers also love giving longer-than-usual homework assignments of Fridays. Lastly, Friday night is the night that you if one does not have plans nor do they want to make plans, they are considered an outcast. Obviously, Friday has its many down sides.

HOWEVER, Friday is also the first day of the weekend. This is supposed to mean fun, relaxation, and most importantly sleeping in for most people, unless your in a sport. Instead, athletes usually have to wake up by 7 in the morning to get ready for a day of competition. Not that this isn't fun...sometimes, but there are those instances where i would give anything to be in my warm bed sleeping instead of shivering out on tennis courts. Perhaps that is just me. Typical weekends of other teenagers my include parties (which are not always the smartest choice) and hanging out with friends. I hang out with my friends on the weekends, but sometimes I just want to be alone. I want to spend my time savoring (or should i say wasting) my weekend in preparation for another week of hard work with Wednesday quizzes and Friday tests.

The best way to savor a weekend varies from person-to-person. I know those out there who believe watching Rock of Love for six hours followed by a Tila Tequila marathon is the definition of a good time. I also have friends that spend their whole weekend doing homework. Although i admire these people, i can never hope to be as responsible as them. There are also people who fit into a miscellaneous category of watching you tube for a couple hours or googling their name and looking at all the found websites. I am not ashamed to mention i have done all of the above listed things on weekends before, but i think it's forgivable. We spend our whole week learning and working, and most of our Friday testing. Don't we all deserve a little mindless fun at some point during the weekend???

Missing School

Missing school is pretty much the best thing in the world, until you have to come back. Coming back is pretty much the worst thing in the world for a high school student. What was a joyous break from school for a day, comes back and bites you in the butt because you get pounded with makeup work and dirty looks from teacher for-gasp!-missing a day of school. Not all teachers are like this of course. Some are cool and tell you to make things up when you can, but having to face an angry teacher when returning to school is no fun at all. In fact, it almost makes missing the day not worth it.

The ideal day off of school comes straight from Ferris Buhler's Day Off. A classic movie of three young teens skipping school for a day out on the town in Chicago They do everything from a baseball game to being part of a parade. The best part of the movie is that they don't get caught and don't get in trouble. Also, according to what the viewers see, they have no homework to make-up when the go back to school. I, personally, would never have the guts to skip school, but it is still something that many kids fantasize about.

I have recently missed two days of school for a school event. However, i still have to make up multiple tests, quizzes, and write papers for my classes. This is extremely distressing for me because not only am i trying to juggle all of this work, but i am also a member of the tennis team and we have a meet twice a week. This usually wouldn't be a problem, but sometimes i must miss a class to travel to other schools for the meet. All of this adds up and can create quite a lot of stress for me. I know other kids are going through the same thing as well. All i can think of these days is the glorious summer that will come in a long 2 months. hopefully that will be enough to keep me dedicated to all my responsibilities...

Race '08- Pennsylvania Edition

Although it pains me to have to stoop so low as to write about the democratic presidential campaigns, I have no choice. This particular subject is all i hear about on the news and i cannot help but form some pretty strong opinions about the subject. Therefore i feel i must share these ideas with the world. So here i go...

The Pennsylvania frenzy regarding the democratic primary began a very long time ago. All of these emotions and, at times, hostilities had a rather dull climax last night. Hilary Clinton won the primary by 10 points. Although she was expected to win, it still made a lot of news and riled up a lot of people. It is not Hilary's victory that interests me, it is the way she went about winning. She played the dirty politician game bashing her opponent in a way that 68% of Americans feel was unjustified. This really bothers me for some reason. It showed the world her desperation to win in a state that, by the way, she already had a large lead in, and it showed that she was not above fair politics.

My personal favorite example of Hilary Clinton criticizing Obama was during the ABC debate. She brought up Obama's acquaintance with a former member of an organization that acted against the government using violence. She claimed that Obama was his friend and the Obama's policies would be affected by this man. My favorite moment of the debate, and possibly the election thus far, was when Obama responded to this accusation with some thing along the lines of, "wasn't it your husband who pardoned 2 members of this same organization, involved with the same acts of violence, before he left office?" Ii wish the camera would have shown Clinton's face because, finally, her harsh and unwarranted criticism of Obama had blown up in her face.

I am not trying to impose my beliefs on anyone. I am just saying that there is something i don't trust about Clinton and she seems like she will do whatever it takes to win the presidency, which I'm not sure is a good thing. But anyway, the Obama-Clinton saga will continue in Indiana and North Carolina in the coming weeks, and how interesting it will be to see how heated the "Race '08" becomes.

My Pondering on Earth Day

With it being earth day yesterday, i have decided that i will write about the truly fresh fad of "going green."This trend has become so popular with celebrities that, if one decides not to live an environmentally friendly life, then they are pretty much kicked off the A-list. With hybrid cars, special light bulbs, and choices as simple as reusable grocery bags, going green has never been more so easy, or so cool.

Leonardo DiCaprio is just one example of the many celebrities who have decided to make a change in their lifestyle and be Eco-friendly. But he is going beyond the call of duty. DiCaprio is working on films that are made to inform people of the damage being done to the environment, one example is The 11th Hour. He is also teaming up with Al Gore. that in itself shows that he will go to great measures to help the environment. but is all this working? Is it too big of a task, even for Leonardo DiCaprio, to try and shape and influence the minds of millions, even billions, of people around the world???

This is a hard question to know the answer to, but my guess would be, yes. There is no way that a handful of celebrities like DiCaprio can make everyone live a green life. Our country especially, is very used doing things our way, so when we are asked to change from something we know, like the kind of car we drive, to something unknown, many of us tend to hesitate. We all know that the environment is in trouble, but not everyone is willing to recognize that they can do something to help it.

Earth day is a good time to think about such deep things as global warming and the melting of the polar ice caps. If you don't do it on earth day, when the heck are you going to?

The Importance of Being Old

It has been brought to my attention that John McCain, if elected as our next president, would be the oldest president to date. I had never really thought about how age may influence the duties and decisions our president is faced with making everyday, but apparently others have. In a poll i saw on Good Morning America this morning, 27% of Americans were "turned off" by McCain's age (check out video of him defending his age). By turned off I mean they would be less likely to vote for him. At the same time, they polled people to see how many would be less likely to vote for Obama because he is black, and how many would be less likely to vote for Clinton because she is a woman. The results said only 8% would be less likely to vote for Obama and 11% for Clinton. I was extremely surprised by these results. Who would have thought that ageism would be more prominent in the 2008 election than sexism or racism?

Maybe a lot of people would see this coming, but i did not. Perhaps because i am a mere 17-years-old i cannot possibly understand the trials faced by older people. I cannot understand how they're age affects how they are treated and what people think of them. However, i suppose ageism is a more long term type of oppression because people rarely notice it, and if they do they might not see how it is wrong. Unlike racism and sexism it is not something that people widely consider to be an injustice, but people cannot prevent getting old, just as they cannot choose the color of their skin or if they are male or female.

Ageism is a prejudice we may all face in our lifetime. When elders were once the most revered and respected they are now sometimes forgotten or treated like children. Saying that John McCain would not be a good president because he is almost 72 years old may be the argument of many, but i am not sure it is a valid one. Can we really judge is effectiveness as a president based on age, and if so, is age necessarily a bad thing?

A Bad Influence???...I Don't Believe It!

While scrolling the the headlines of the day on E Online today I came across the headline, "50 Cent, A Bad Influence?" Frankly, I was shocked that this was a part of the daily news. As if there was even a question as to 50 cent's negative influence on society. With songs like Candy Shop, which has explicit lyrics and sexual innuendos hidden behind a metaphor of candy, as if the world wouldn't catch on, 5o cent isn't necessarily a saint. However, he is just one member of a large group of "gangster rappers" who flaunt their lifestyle to the millions of people who hang on their every word, or rap .

One distinguishing thing about 50 cent is dangerous record. One of the first things i ever learned about him when he come on the music scene (i think i was about 12) is that he was shot multiple times in some sort of gang violence. In the small world that is Cedar Rapids, IA, this doesn't happen, and if it did, one certainly wouldn't show off those kinds of battle wounds. But 50 has learned to turn his unfortunate circumstance into a fortune. 50 isn't the only one, Akon is another notable figure in the music world who has not set the best example for us, oh so impressionable youth of America.

Akon's claim to fame, besides his music, is the fact that he has been to prison. This normally would be a sort of social stigma, but Akon has turned it into millions of dollars in his bank account. He often raps/sings about his time in prison. But the very fact that he has reached the celebrity he is currently at is automatically sending out a message that even committing crimes can help you make it to the top. If Akon hadn't gone to prison he may have lacked the material to become such a successful artist. Just a thought. To add to that, Akon is still getting in trouble for assaulting people and having relations with underage girls. Obviously, this does not send out the most positive messages to their fans.

As much as these artists do pollute our society with their less than noble lyrics and unlawful actions, that is what makes them the superstars that they are. No one would want to hear them rap about love (that didn't involve sex), friendship, and peace. That is not who they are. They would rather rap about sex, girls, and gang violence. If that is how they make a living, so be it. But that doesn't mean I have to listen.

Olympics Gone Wild

The summer Olympics are on the way. In a short four months, the world will be watching the finest athletes from several countries display their talents and fight for the gold. I have always been a huge fan of the Olympics, but lately I have been somewhat distressed about the recent protesting and violence surrounding them. What has happened to make everyone so angry???

I know a little about the actual problems and unrest that are surrounding the 2008 games. Perhaps, my ignorance is the problem and if i was informed better the whole incident would make sense. However, the evening news has not informed me of the details so I will be telling you my reaction to the information they have told me. So far I know that there are some serious issues in Tibet. I believe Tibet wants their freedom from China, which is understandable. I also know China has been linked to the atrocities in Sudan, though the particular connection is unclear. However, these political issues of one country have suddenly affected the world, and I'm not sure that is right.

I am not saying that what China is doing is okay, because there are certainly problems with their government, as there is with most. I am saying that what was once an international affair that was focused on the bringing together of the world, has now become more about the country hosting the event than the event itself. I don't believe there should be violent protests against the games, because the athletes have done nothing wrong and by disapproving and boycotting their event, you are hurting them as well as China. Athletes from around the world have worked and trained and prepared for the Olympics almost their entire lives. This is their opportunity to exhibit their amazing skills on a worlds stage. I think we should let them perform in peace and find other ways to create change and show our displeasure with China. There must be other ways.

My Amazing Research Paper: Part Deux

As I have developed more ideas about my research paper and have done research, I have decided there are a few specific sub topics of filmmaking in the 1920’s and 1930’s that I want to focus on. These include the major stars of the era and their influence on American culture, the human perspective on the transition from silent movies to “talkies,” the types of movies during the era and which were the most popular, and, finally, the lasting impact this time left on movies in the future, including today. I chose these subtopics because they seem the most interesting to me. I have also found many different books and online sources that will help me collect information for these subjects. There are so many directions I could have taken with the topic I chose, but I think the four aspects of film in the 1920’s and 1930’s will be the most interesting to learn about and to write about.

I have already found a book that is completely devoted to the influential women in motion pictures during the silent era. This should be helpful and give information about the stars of the era and their importance in society. I have also found a book about the remnants of old Hollywood in movies today. This matches perfectly with one of the main ideas I want to discuss in my paper. There have also been other various sources with useful information that I have already looked through. I am ready to start some actual research and serious consideration of what information I will actually be using in my paper.

I would still like to find more information about stars of the 1930’s and their impacts on society, as well as more personal accounts of the transition to motion pictures with sound from silent movies. I know the first movie to do this was The Jazz Singer and it was made by Warner Bros, but that is the only knowledge I have so far. I want to know what it was like for the stars, the directors, the producers, and the people in charge of the music and sound of the movies. This is information I have yet to find, but I am still conducting research so I am not too worried.

Not Always Entertainment...

It seems to me that lately the more Oscar buzz a movie gets, and the more Oscars it wins, the worse the movie. Maybe I am just a small town girl who likes movies about love and romance. But I also like war movies and action filled 007 films. I’m not a picky movie person, honestly. I give movies a chance, but movies like No Country for Old Men, 3:10 to Yuma, and even last years movies like The Departed really did nothing for me. I bring this up because I had the unfortunate experience of watching No Country for Old Men last weekend.

From my knowledge of classic movies, it used to be common place for comedies and movies that didn’t necessarily have a deep message to win the Oscar for best picture. I really don’t feel that is true anymore. This year No Country for Old Men won, year before that was The Departed, before that Crash, and before that Million Dollar Baby. All of these movies are: a) depressing b) violent or c) depressing AND violent. Is this really what America loves, and if so what does that say about us as people? If the general American loves cursing, tears, and blood, then why have the Academy Awards had increasingly lower ratings during the broadcast? Why do people not vote these movies into the best movies of all time on the numerous lists put together in the world? All of these questions fail to be answered by the nominations and the choices made by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

I am a movie lover at heart. I find it easy to connect to the words and the acting in the films that touch my heart. But no matter how hard I try, I cannot understand the decisions made by the members of the Academy during award season. Everything from costumes to music to the actual picture are the wrong choices in my opinion. The members of the Academy are trying to make motion pictures TOO powerful and TOO meaningful when all audiences really want, usually, are entertaining film experiences. Whether it is a drama or comedy, romance or musical, Americans want an enjoyable experience, and lately the motion pictures distinguished by the Academy Awards seem more painful than enjoyable.

Jamie Lynn Spears: Mother AND Wife?

Jamie Lynn Spears has become the latest poster girl for teen pregnancy. Although it is not a very coveted position, she seems to be taking to the role well. With a sister that creates chaos like Britney, it is no wonder that Jamie Lynn felt some need to take responsibility after the predicament she got herself into. She is sleeping in the bed she made, and she seems to be comfortable.

After the popular 17-year-old TV star of a popular tween show, Zoey 101, revealed to the world that she was expecting a child with her boyfriend we were all shocked. There were numerous daytime talk shows buzzing about it. Popular stories included, “How to talk to your kids about it,” and, “What will happen with her show?” Of course the media used the opportunity and ran the story for as long as possible. For fifteen seconds, Jamie Lynn overshadowed her big sister and took over the tabloids.

Today, a few months after the reveal of Jamie’s big secret there is very little talk of the teen star who is about to be a mother. A couple weeks ago we heard about her completion of high school education with her getting her GED. Today, we learn that she may be planning to marry her boyfriend. Although some people may be interested in this story more than what Paris Hilton ate for lunch, others are not. This just goes to show that pop culture junkies have very short attention spans, and once a story has played out, we all lose interest. Of course, there are exceptions. Paris Hilton and Britney Spears are the first to come to mind. But whatever fifteen seconds of fame Jamie Lynn had enjoyed over her bundle of joy, is over. At Least until the baby pictures come out. Who knows how much will be paid for those. But that insanity can be discussed at another time.

How much is too much?

This easter weekend, The Sound of Music was on THREE times. I wont lie to the millions of people who are hanging on my every word right now, i like The Sound of Music. I am a sucker for the VonTrap family singers and their fight with the Nazi troops inside the Abbey's cemetary. It makes for great entertainment. But even this amazing movie can get a little old when it is played three consecutive nights. In retrospect, i didn't necessarily have to watch it all three times, but there is something entrancing about the harmonies of Liesl, Louisa, Friedrich, Kurt, Brigitta, Marta, Gretl, and of course Fräulein Maria. Cap'n VonTrap isn't bad either, but that is beyond the point. What is the purpose of putting the same movie, on the same channel, for three nights in a row?!

This is not an uncommon practice among TV networks. FX, USA, and TBS continually do this when premering a new to TV movie. But Sound of Music is definitely NOT new. Networks also do this around holiday seasons when promoting the holiday that is quickly approaching, like A Christmas Story. Although, this theory does not really work because i cannot see the relevance to easter in a movie about a singing family of eight whose father marries the nanny. In Fact, The nanny actually leaves the abbey where she is trying to become a nun, a religious role that could be related to the easter holiday, to marry a rich naval captain. Not to mention the heavy Nazi influence in the movie, i cannot fathom why this movie would be played so much during the easter weekend.

I may not understand it, and i may find it a bit annoying by the third time i'm watching it, but i know if it should ever be on again i will be right there watching it. It is a classic that just can't, and shouldn't, be ignored! The VonTraps will forever live on in our culture, and if i ever feel the need, i can always be enchanted by them by reaching into my DVD collection.

Stress

Yesterday was monumental. For the first time, maybe this whole year, I had the opportunity to spend an evening doing absolutely nothing. I had no homework and no activities. It should have been relaxing, it should have been fun, but it was still stressful. How can that be? Do we as young Americans really have so much stress that we are kept up at night, or nervous about absolutely nothing? Or maybe it is just me, but I have seen similar trials faced by peers, whether they are my friends, my acquaintances, or simply the celebrities I see facing so many evils in Hollywood.

Lindsay Lohan, a few years my senior, is a prime example of what stress can do to a person. The once innocent Disney sweetheart evolved into a media spectacle after car crashes, drunken nights, and a couple rehab stints. Now, I am not saying that my stress is comparable to that of her. Of course she has a few more pressures in life, but stress has similar effects for everyone. It runs you down, makes you desperate for an out, whether it be through drinking, over-eating, not eating, or smoking stress causes many of the problems facing America today. Not just young Americans, our elders face similar problems, but it is up to us to make the changes in our country now, which, ironically, is a stressor. Obviously the idea of stressors and stress is a nasty circle of frustration and anxiety.

I am not claiming to have the answers to the problems of stress, nor am I insinuating that stress is an inescapable evil. I am simply pointing out the fact that more and more people seem to be facing it, or at least facing it in a more public fashion. Lindsay Lohan, Britney Spears, and many more darlings of young Hollywood are a prime example of the nasty and bumpy road stress can take you down. Whether someone is famous or not, stress happens to everyone at some point or another. The test is not whether you get stressed or not, but how you deal with stress when it happens.

Uninspired

Blogging is not something that can have a schedule in my opinion. You have to be inspired with a brilliant idea or have a lot of feelings you need to get out. Maybe you just heard something interesting and felt like sharing it with the world, or in my case, the three people that look at my posts. Unfortunately, since this is an assignment, I do have a schedule. Even more unfortunately, I am feeling completely vacant of good or even decent ideas of what to write about. So here I am, rambling on to you about absolutely nothing. I will try my best to end up with something entertaining in the end, but I would not be offended if you decided to simply skip this post, there are much better ones. So here I go…

When I woke up this morning I knew I would have to write a blog entry. Naturally I looked for inspiration in the news and media that morning. After watching a couple lame music videos and an hour of Saved by the Bell, all I was left with was a disappointed feeling that I wasted yet another hour of my life. I went downstairs where my loving father had prepared me breakfast and turned on the news. Like my previous post said there was nothing new to write about. Recession, War, and Clinton were the main stories and took up the fist half-hour which was all I had time for. This should explain why I am so desperate for a blog entry that I am writing about my lack of blog topics.

Maybe I am just not creative enough, or not open enough to share what is really on my mind, but all I can think of is how desperately I strive to entertain in my writing, and how hard that is. It drains a lot of creativity and effort out of me every time I write an entry. It is also difficult because I realize that no matter what I write: a) only a few people will actually see it and b) there is no guarantee that what I write will entertain or even hold the attention of the readers. These facts are a heavy weight on my mind when writing on this blog, yet I have to keep working. Writing does not come easily to me, and sometimes what I say or think only really makes sense to me. But on this blog, I am trying my best to help you understand me and understand what I think about the world.

So even on days like today, when I have lost all hope in finding a suitable subject for the day’s blog and I find myself writing meaningless nonsense. I am trying to take my story or my ideas somewhere. I guess today, it took me to the conclusion that not every blog entry can be meaningful or entertaining, but I will still keep writing, even when I feel like all my originality is gone.

Rainbows and Sunshine

Sometimes I feel like I am trapped in an endless circle of dull news stories. Everyday, it seems as though I am only watching the news from the night before, or the night before that, or even last Tuesday evening’s broadcast. This web of tedium can become extremely frustrating for us civilians who are just waiting for new information ponder for a while. It is for this reason that I tend to watch more MTV, FX, and E!. They may not have the hard hitting news that will affect my life and deepen my understanding of the world, but at least I see something interesting.

For about the past three months the only news I have been hearing is Obama versus Clinton, and what sounds like their endless bickering. This was interesting at first because there is nothing I like more than a good cat fight between two prominent politicians who are supposed to be above that kind of nonsense, but even that can get a little old. The next most frequent story is recession. Are we in one or not? I can only take so much of this stock market jargon. Bears, bulls, dow, the list is an endless headache of words that mean nothing to me. And if I’m being honest, home foreclosures being on the rise is NOT considered a breaking news story anymore, sorry ABC. Finally, the war makes a constant appearance on the evening news. It isn’t even about changes in the status of the war, but another suicide bombing killing more and more people. I am not saying any of these matters are not important (except the not-so-racist remarks of some random lady. That doesn’t make my breaking news list). Obviously there are problems in the world, but I doubt it is impossible to find a really new news story every once in a while.

Not only is the news like a broken record, but it is such a downer. Sometimes I feel like the journalism world is trying to show us mere citizens the world is going to you-know-where. Like thrusting these depressing and sometimes infuriating stories into our homes morning, evening, and night, is somehow helping us become more aware of how bad the world is. I believe I am speaking for almost everyone when I say, we KNOW the world is screwed up. We knew it last night, last week, last year, and we will still know tomorrow. So all I am asking is that the news world gives us 1 day, just 1, to have the childish idea that maybe there is still a glimmer of hope for civilization. One day without bashing our politicians, learning of looming economic disaster, and death and destruction in other countries. Just one day with rainbows and sunshine.

Paris Hilton?...No Thanks!

When has a celebrity officially become an annoyance in my life? It's when the very mentioning of their name or the sound of their voice makes me cringe. Paris Hilton, the overexposed hotel heiress, has way overstayed her welcome on my popular culture radar. So you may be asking yourself why i am wasting my time writing this about her. Because i feel compelled to point out the stupidity and desperation of her actions, specifically her latest attempt at fame.

The tabloid favorite known as Miss Hilton has now sunken to, what i belive to be, an all-time low of going on national tv to find a new best friend. My immediate reaction to this was, "how can this show even exist when i can't think of anyone in the world who would want to deal with the drama of Paris and be her friend?" My second reaction was to sigh and accept the fact that the world will never cease to give this celebrity (what she did to become one, i don't know) the attention she craves. The heiress went SO far as to hold a press conference to announce her search for a new best friend. She may find this news as vital, but i see it as a sad. However, Hilton has always had a few issues.

Between the jail time drama that took the country by storm last year, the not-so-appropriate movie debut of Paris, and the disaster that was her music career, i shouldn't be surprised by anything she does these days. I just don't want to see her on tv, in the magazines, or hear her on the radio anymore. If she wants a new best friend, can't she do it without the television crews. Honestly?! It is only making the American people suffer more than they need to.

My Amazing Reseearch Paper!

I have decided to write my research paper on early filmmaking in America. The time period I wil be focusing on is between 1920 and 1940. I chose this because it was a high point for the film industry. Throught my paper I will be attempting to answer many questions including...

• When was the first commerical film made?


• What were popular silent movies?


• What were popular talking movies?


• Who were common stars in silent movies and what were their lives like?


• What affect did films have on Americans?


• When did films move from silent to talking and what was the transition like?


• How did this change affect Hollywood in general?


• What were popoular storyline of movies during this time?


• Who were major stars of the time?


• What were the major studios?


• How did these movie stars influence Americans?


• What were average inclomes of people in the movie industry?


• Can any influence of early filmmaking still be seen in hollywood today?

By answeringh the question I hope to find a clear understanding and appreciation of the work and lives of these early workers in the movie making business.

Allowance Taken to a Whole New Level

Many children throughout the world anticipate their weekly allowance. Whether it be five, ten, or twenty-five dollars the excitement is always present. Most kids outgrow their allowance by the time they get a job, but this is not the case for Britney Spears. We all know the trials and tribulations she has been through in the past three years, and apparantly the only way to get her help is to strip away many routine freedoms of a 25-year-old.

Britney Spears has been in a downward spiral since the day she decided to hook up with a Mr. Kevin Federline. This random back-up dancer who became her husband thoroughly ruined the greatness that was Britney Spears. She was America's pop princess with a bright and shining future filled with love and success. Today, she is a pathetic, bald, psychotic excuse for a woman who wears Ugg boots in the summer. Maybe I'm being a little harsh, but its time for her to figure out her problems. Her father, and the California courts apparently agree with me. Now that she is in her father's care she seems to be improving. Of course i only say this because she hasn't been a part of daily gossip for a couple weeks, until now. It has come to my attention that now under her father's loving care, Britney Spears will be recieving allowance. Although this is not your typical twenty-five dollar a week earning. Oh no. She will be recieving 1,500 dollars a week. Ridiculous, i think so.

In my opinion, Britney Spears doesn't need 1,500 dollars to get her through one week. What she really needs to do is follow Michael Jackson's lead and leave the country for a while to figure out how to become a normal, functioning, independent human being again. She should want to leave the country if you ask me. She has embaressed herself enough in this one, it is time for her to leave her mark on another innocent society.

In all honesty, i'm pulling for Spears. I think she had some talent and could even dance at one time in her life. I'm ashamed to admit, she was one of my favorite singers when I was a child. With all her screw ups, mishaps, and embaressments, i truly hope her father giving her 1,500 dollars every week will solve all her problems, but i'm not counting on it.

When Bringing SexyBack Isn't Enough...

The man who brought SexyBack is a musical genius. There is little denying he can belt out a successful track and dance his way to the top of numerous charts. But when I heard Mr. Timberlake was now playing executive producer to a new NBC series I couldn’t help but be a little disappointed.

Justin Timberlake became a household name back in my childhood as a member of N’Sync. Unless you lived under a rock during the late 1990’s and early 2000’s you know the phenomenon of teen pop during the time. Timberlake, who had been a part of the entertainment biz for many years prior to N’Sync as a part of the Mickey Mouse Club was finally making it to the big time during the “boy band” era. If we are being honest, he was the most popular member of N’Sync due to his boyish good looks and astounding musical talent. He had it all, a successful career, a beautiful girlfriend (Britney Spears), and the love of American teens everywhere. Then, the world began changing, as it tends to, and boy bands were out.

This caused many popular songbirds to nosedive into failure and ultimately become a forgotten aspect of history, but Justin Timberlake began to truly thrive. With the release of his first solo CD, Justified, Justin Timberlake left his boy band persona behind in favor of a darker, more mysterious attitude. He ditched his girlfriend (or his girlfriend ditched him…who knows?), lost the curly gold locks, and was all of a sudden the hottest thing since, well, since N’Sync. I was a fan. He was an individual who was doing what he did best, singing and dancing. Then he caught the contagious disease of Hollywood, the desire to become a triple threat.

Anybody who pays an iota of attention to pop culture and the lives of the famous know the popularity of becoming a triple threat. Apparently, in today’s world, it is not enough to be an amazing actor, a talented musical artist, or an unbelievable dancer. Suddenly, you have to be all three! Something that is almost impossible to do successfully. Many have tried and almost all have failed. Whether it is greed, boredom, or simple drive that pushes celebrities to attempt such impossible feats, I wouldn’t know, but I think it is about time they stop. Unfortunately, nobody is asking for my opinion.

The triple threat bug bit JT, that’s for sure. We always knew he could sing and dance. He was doing that during his MMC days. Acting was supposedly required for that job too, but I don’t know if I would exactly call what they were doing acting. However, he has acted in a few things over the years so I suppose we can consider that one of his lesser talents. That would qualify Timberlake as a triple threat already, but there is more. He also has a clothing line with his friend, he has opened a restaurant in New York City, and, as of today I am aware, he is now an executive producer. Timberlake is a mere 26 years old. I ask you, what else is he supposed to do for the next 60 years of his life?

This new show I have been informed Justin Timberlake is producing is an adaptation from a popular sitcom from Peru. It is to be called My Problem with Women. How he came to be executive producer of this somewhat random television show is only anyone’s guess, but he says he is very excited for the upcoming TV comedy. The ways in which already successful stars are striving to become even more successful never ceases to amaze me. All I can say, is I miss the good old days when being a hugely popular, rich, and famous singer was enough to be happy.

Nonfiction Hitchcock?

While being forced to watch the evening news a few nights ago, I was shocked by a particular story being reported. It wasn’t the messy political campaigns of the two democratic front-runners, and it wasn’t even the severe weather that seems to be taking over the nation. It was the large-scale immigration of thousands of birds (grackles to be exact) to the downtown district of Fort Worth, Texas.

I suppose to understand why this particular story was so distressing for me; one must understand that I have a kind of bird phobia. It began about two years ago when I was going through my “Hitchcock thriller” phase. At this time I watched several of his movies, from the little known, Rebecca, to the legendary, Psycho. Naturally, one of the movies I had an intense desire to watch was The Birds. The movie starts off friendly enough, just a few birds here and there, but then they turn on the small California town and before you know it people are getting killed by the attacking birds. Of course, this is fiction, but for some reason it began to strike a fear in me. The grackles of Fort Worth, Texas are not the man killing sort, but it does seem quite odd.

It is important to understand the thousands of birds taking up residence in the trees of this trendy downtown district have not hurt anybody. They have been a mess, an annoyance, and have detracted from the beauty of the town, but they are not flying throughout the city attacking school children like the famous scene Hitchcock depicted. However, the entire story does have that creepy, if not disturbing feel to it.

So, you may be asking yourself, “What are they doing to get rid of the birds?” Well, the city leaders in charge of coming up with a solution to this nuisance believe the answer lies in laser pointers. Yes, laser pointers. They have workers sitting outside and pointing the lasers at the trees so the birds will get scared and leave. So far this has not been very successful. Apparently, the birds are bright enough to figure out a light being shot towards them is not a threat. This is when the city brought in the big guns, or should I say hawks. As of now, trained hawks, a natural predator of the grackles, are being sent out to hunt and kill the thousands of birds in Fort Worth. I suppose we shall see if this resolution succeeds. It is just a shame the small California town taken over by birds in Hitchcock’s masterpiece didn’t have any laser pointers or hawks.

Researh Paper?

1. 1920's culture: I think this could be really interesting to write about because i think that era is fascinating and there is a lot more i would like to know about it.

2. Early Filmaking (1920's-1930's): I love watching movies, especially old ones, so this seems like a good topic for me to do research on. I don't know a lot about the actual processes of filmaking and the topic would hold my interest.

3. Aviation: This could be a good topic because there is so much information in the field from early aviation to today. There are also a lot of influential aviators I could research for the paper.

Spring Break

The college student's spring break vacation is stereotypically filled with drinking, partying, and only a vague recollection of what actually happened over the week long hiatus from school. This aspect of college life is one that is coveted by many students throughout the country. My older brother is no exception. He will be traveling to Mexico with six of his friends. The week long break in March is rapidly approaching. The reservations at the Mexican resort have been made, the plane tickets purchased, and the excitement is already stirring inside my brother and his buddies. Of course, I am extremely jealous of the opportunity my brother has to go on a mexican holiday, so being the evil little sister I am, I did everything in my power to sabotage it.

My evil plan went into action when I was surfing the channel on my tv one day about 6 months ago. I stumbled upon the documentary style show, THS. In this episode it was investigating the dangerous side of spring break. I knew this was my opportunity to get some useful information and keep my brother from this crazy idea he had of going to cancun. I watched intently as the reporters and former spring breakers told their horror stories. There were anecdotes about stolen identity, gang violence, and drink poisoning. I began to understand the reality of spring break, as portrayed by MTV, wasn't exactly what they made it out to be.

I told my parents about these true stories and about all the danger of the spring break environment, but was defeated in my arguments. My brother will be going on his mexican spring break in a couple weeks, and most likely nothing will happen. There will probably be no identity theft, no close calls with mexican gangs, and not a hint of alcohol poisoning, but it still doesn't stop the family from worrying. It is just something i will be thinking about when it is my turn to experience the quintessential spring break in the coming years.