Gingervitus

SCHOOL HOLDS TOLERANCE SEMINAR AS 3 BOYS ARE ARRESTED IN 'GINGER' ATTACKS
(LA Times)

It's as trite as trite can be -- back in the good ol' days, kids used to use "Kick Me!" signs. Now we've upgraded to Facebook and holidays such as "Kick A Ginger Day" can cause nationwide peril to Weasleys everywhere. The Calabasas Middle School boys, ages 12 and 13, were influenced by the show South Park in attacking gingers in their normally-peaceful campus.

The "South Park" episode, first shown in 2005, was itself supposed to be a lesson in tolerance but misfired, with harassment of red-haired students taking place at schools across the U.S. and Canada over the last few years.

However, for something that has been occuring in schools for decades, it seems a little harsh to label these young lads on battery charges or anything of that sort. I mean, nothing more than a couple bruises and scraped knees occured and things like that are bound to happen. Of course, that's not to say such behavior is encouraged, especially on the grounds of their hair color, but if the crime is relatively harmless, the punishment should fit the offense.

Likewise, to blame the producers of South Park for the misbehavior of middle school children is a cop out because they cannot control their own kids.

The annual kick-a-ginger event has brought angry criticism from people who feel the show's producers should have known better. A judge in Calgary, Canada, where 13 high school students swarmed a red-haired boy in a locker room, called the show "a vulgar, socially irreverent program that contributes nothing to society."

It's a television program intended for an adult audience -- monitor what your childen watch and you won't have a problem. It is a high-brow show (yes, it is, don't give me that look) and if your children are not at the level at which they can understand satire, they shouldn't be watching Comedy Central. You cannot demand that adult programming be eradicated for the "sake of the children" simply so you don't have to do your job as a parent because the telly can babysit them for you.

Link to story at latimes.com:
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-ginger-attacks1-2009dec01,0,7737967.story?track=rss


This post is dedicated to my ex-husband and faithful ginger, Max Solomon. Keep on keepin' on, Rojo.

An offer they should've refused

ITALIAN GROUP: 'JERSEY' SHORE WAS OFFENSIVE
(TMZ)

The newest reality trash from MTV, Jersey Shore, is more or less The Hills, but with fake tans and linguini. However, these hyperbolized stereotypes are upsetting Italian-Americans across the country. According to the article, "After last night's debut episode of the reality show, UNICO National -- the 'Largest Italian American Service Organization in the USA' -- claims they 'can't keep up with the volume of calls' from 'outraged' Italian Americans." Domino's Pizza even went so far as to retract their ad campaign with the television show, claiming it "wasn't right for Domino's Pizza."

What did you expect from MTV, really? I'm sure if there were Plastic Bimbo support groups, they'd have been up in arms back in the days of Laguna Beach. I think the key here is to accept the low standards of entertainment in today's day and age and just find something else to do with your time. Stereotypes will be perpetuated with or without this dreck of programming, so change the channel to House, M.D, watch Hugh Laurie be snarky, and save yourself some unnecessary stress. 

Link to story at tmz.com:
http://www.tmz.com/2009/12/04/italian-group-jersey-shore-was-offensive/

Stacy and Clinton would have something to say about this...

GAY BASHING WOMAN HUMILIATED FOR WEARING HIDEOUS SKIRT
(Boing Boing)

Chris Pesto, a student at Syracuse University, could take this random fundamentalist's hateful messages no more. Instead of taking the conventional route of verbally tearing her a new one, he took the witty high road -- making a rival poster making fun of her God-awful fashion choice. "I decided that because this woman thought it was okay to make me feel uncomfortable in my home, I would retaliate and make her feel just as uncomfortable, if not more, " Pesto said. In all honesty, I'm all for free speech; my international relations teacher in high school didn't call me Crazy Liberal Girl for nothing. However, when Christian fundamentalists taint the good name of the religion overall by spouting hateful rhetoric (yeah, I'm looking at you, Dove Outreach Center), it makes me question where Christ comes into this at all. "Christ will set you free?" I'm Jewish, but even I know Jesus Christ would not approve of such actions on behalf of his name. We are all people and should be treated as such -- humans with free will not to be harassed to "see the light." The fact that actions such as those Pesto had to go to just to feel comfortable in their own hometown is sad and I'm sure your Good Lord would want all of his followers to be treated as such (and even those who do not follow Christianity. Bear in mind: he didn't invent Christianity; apostles did).

But nonetheless, good show, Mr. Pesto. Good show.


Link to story at boingboing.net:
http://www.boingboing.net/2009/11/30/gay-bashing-woman-hu.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+boingboing%2FiBag+(Boing+Boing)&utm_content=Google+Reader

Bibles: if you get beat 'em, change 'em

BLESSED ARE THE CONSERVATIVE IN BIBLE TRANSLATION
(Associated Press)

"The Gospel of Luke records that, as he was dying on the cross, Jesus showed his boundless mercy by praying for his killers this way: 'Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.'" Apparently to conservatives, this benevolent Jesus simply doesn't fly. They view this individual quote as an attempt by liberal translators to instill their views on the Bible (despite, as the article point out, it being in nearly every translated text). However, as any theological scholar will tell you, an attempt to reword Scripture by a group of amateurs is not to preserve, but to bend the Bible to their whimsy. That is not what religion is about -- tweaking what has been established because it's not to your liking. If Jesus is too benevolent for you, I don't think it's the Bible's fault. "This is not making scripture understandable to people today, it's reworking scripture to support a particular political or social agenda," said Timothy Paul Jones, a professor at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Translations of this magnitude are not something to be taken with a grain of salt -- it takes an educated scholar years upon years to master something as heady as a scripture translation. To seize it and attempt to rework it is an arrogant attempt at re-writing tradition simply because it doesn't suit you. 



Link to story at msnbc.com:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/34270487/ns/us_news-faith/?GT1=43001

Oh, you've heard of The Mountain Goats? Great, now I have to find a new fave band...

EVOLUTION OF THE HIPSTER 2000-2009
(Paste)

I'm going in a different direction for a second and focusing on photojournalism, specifically magazine work. This immediately caught my attention since I've always been fascinated with the hipster trends and that whole notion of being "indie-fabulous." When did being so uncool become so awesome?  So I followed Paste's handy timeline and was taken on a journey of emo, emo part deux, proto-hipster, vintage wannabe and beyond. It really is interesting what American culture takes a hold of and runs with -- apparently looking homeless for a time was the "cool new thing." What was fascinating was the depictions of every year's trend; it really hit the nail on the head when it came to the incidental little details that truly shaped that particular look, from tattoo specifics to what technology they were toting.

The last decade may have been thought to lack a definitive look that we all could nostalgically look back on and dress up as on "2000's Night" at the the office, but this is a step in the right direction towards giving the 2000's some identity that isn't from the 'hood.


Link to spread at pastemagazine.com:
http://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2009/12/the-evolution-of-the-hipster-2000-2009.html

#2 party school my behind

CARLOS DUNLAP DUI: ARRESTED GATOR CHARGED WITH DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE
(The Huffington Post)

The newest arrest of defensive back Carlos Dunlap is the newest edition to the slowly growing collection of influential Gators falling into the trap of driving while intoxicated. Now, before I get attacked with cries of "People are human, we make mistakes!," take heed. The rapidly growing numbers of people who are supposed to be role models obviously not learning from each other's misfortunes and bad judgement. Dunlap has let us down as a college community when we need him the most -- the week before the SEC championship game against Alabama, a game that means a lot not only to Gator fans, but to the team itself. Kristin Gillis, the supposed pride of the UF Panhellenic Council, and a UF faculty member have all recently been charged with DUIs in the past month or so. These are figures that we as a college community hold in high regard and I feel that they are not doing their job in living up to the high standards set up for them. Sure, they're human, but they're humans who have taken on the responsibility as a sorority and homecoming figure, star athlete, and faculty member to set an example for UF students.

Link to story at huffingtonpost.com
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/12/01/carlos-dunlap-dui-arreste_n_375074.html

If you were gay, that'd be OK

ADAM LAMBERT:  I ONCE WEIGHED 250 LBS.
(CNN)

Why yes, even the famous and fabulous were once just as painfully awkward as we are. Adam Lambert, after a controversial performance at the AMAs, admitted that his potential bad judgement stemmed from a desire to flaunt his recently aquired physique and self-confidence. However, aside from this, what caught my attention was how the media has reacted to the upset. Sure, what Lambert did may not have been in the best of taste -- but anyone recall the Madonna/Britney/Christina incident of years past? Of course it was scandalous, but no news broadcast sensored the steamy exchange between the ladies (it was dubbed as "hot" and "sexy"), whereas CBS took it upon themselves to censor the exchange between Lambert and a male dancer.

This obvious gender bias seems too blatent to get away with in national media. Because American culture dictates that lesbians are hot and gays are perverse doesn't mean a national new outlet like CBS has to play into such biased bullocks. It's not as though he's a sociopathic sexual deviant -- quite the contrary, Lambert has shown embarrassment over his actions at the award ceremony. "I don't blame them. I got carried away. It was stuff that I did not do in rehearsal, so they were probably a little bit taken aback," he said. "They gave me a great opportunity to close the AMAs and I would never want to smack that gift horse in the mouth. I think they were taking a leap of faith having me do that, and it unfortunately it didn't work out as we all thought it would.


Link to story at cnn.com:
http://www.cnn.com/2009/SHOWBIZ/Music/12/01/adam.lambert.ellen/index.html

Reefer radness

SCHOOL OF POT: CANNABIS COLLEGE OFFERS HIGHER EDUCATION IN GROWING MEDICAL MARIJUANA
(Neatorama)

Gone are the days when college students get their weed fix thanks to creeps behind alleyways. Now colleges (namely Med Grow Cannabis College in Michigan) are educating students of all backgrounds in the history and growth of medical marijuana. "Students pay $475 for a six-week night-school course that includes classes in marijuana history, marijuana law, the basics of business, and, of course, several courses in how to grow and cook marijuana -- one taught by an anonymous professor who goes by the name 'Nature'" Even now, the stigma surrounding marijuana is often one of skepticism and fear. However, what we fail to realize is the lucridity of the plant -- hello, taxes up the wazoo once it's legalized and we have a booming secter of the economy. But, I digress. A college that specializes in this fascinating branch of botony illustrates that it is not only an interst of a hungry Harold and Kumar; classes were attended by everyone from the savvy business man to the priest treating AIDS patients. Also, just going on record to say that the number of recorded deaths due to marijuana are zero...I won't even get into how that compares to alcohol (which is legal, obviously). Ignoring these facts in favor of fear and ignorance will only perpetuate a negative connotation over a plant that has served the same purpose for thousands of years -- healing, both mentally and physically.


Link to story at netorama.com:
http://www.neatorama.com/2009/11/30/school-of-pot-cannabis-college-offers-higher-education-in-growing-medical-marijuana/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Neatorama+(Neatorama)

FSwho?

FIELD GOAL SINKS RIVALRY TO NEW LOW
(The Alligator)

The textbook definition of a rivalry does highlight some sort of competitive equality. However, what Maistri ignores is the traditional context of the great UF vs. FSU. "The only rivals for the Gators during these last five years are history and greatness." Is that such a bad thing? Surely no one would dare tell you as a person to not strive for your highest potential, far above your classmates -- why do sports have to have a level playing field (pardon the pun)? If the Gators are truly a steller football team, we should play as such, unabashed by a desire to what...console the Seminoles? Seems a little hypocritical since we're touting t-shirts and buttons in which the phrase "BEAT THE NOLES" gleam down.

"Come to Florida. Shame your rivals. Win national championships. Do it all in front of an incredible fan base that treats players like family." Miastri says that dripping with sarcasm and, for the love of G-d, I don't know why. He's a Gator, he should, for all intents and purposes, be proud of that. We've done no wrong except embrace the competitive spirit in a sportsman-like way. I'll admit, a lack of stiff competition outside of the conference does make for a less-than-thrilling football watching experience, but the end of the Golden Age of the Gators very well might come to a close after the seniors depart. Who knows -- the mystery's in the game.


Link to story at alligator.org:
http://alligator.org/sports/sports_columns/article_14d7b1b8-dd5f-11de-bde9-001cc4c03286.html

The proud, the many, the undergrads

UNDERGRADS HAVE RIGHT TO PROTEST FEE
(The Alligator)

A concerned UF student wrote in to The Alligator today speaking out against those who have stated that undergrads should not have a say in the potential implementation of a fee to fund the expansion of the Reitz Union. I say hear, hear! The graduate population needs to get their collective head out of the sand and realize that, while it may have been easy coasting for them, Bright Futures' policy has changed dramatically since their days as undergraduates. We do not have percentages covered, but rather per credit hour and, for many, that simply does not suffice. We will, just will have to, pay out of pocket for these extra fees. As such, we have just as much right to be up in arms about yet another fee tacked onto our scroll-esque university bill. Plus, we're backing up your cause; take the support graciously. I ponder the audacity of my fellow Gators -- we may be younglings, but we're still worthy of an opinion.

Taking a Paki-stand

PAKISTAN TO US: DON'T SURGE IN AFGHANISTAN, TALK TO TALIBAN
(Christian Science Monitor)

Despite embracing the US's attempts to stabilize the region, Pakistani government officials are urging the United States to utilize diplomacy in regards to the Taliban, as opposed to carrying out with the plan to spike the number of troops in the area. Pakistan is concerned that the surge will, in turn, cause the Taliban to flood into their own territory, where "they are not welcome."

"The two countries' divergent views of the threat posed by Islamist extremists, and the Obama administration's efforts to press Pakistan to move against groups that menace Afghanistan have produced strains between the two countries and between Pakistan's civilian government and its powerful military and Inter Services Intelligence agency (ISI) — and a growing drumbeat of Pakistani allegations about alleged nefarious CIA activities in Pakistan."

They're naturally looking out for their own best interest and, likewise, we must do the same. The article more or less upholds this idea, though it does so by first analyzing the Pakistani perspective, which is effective when their own opinion on the matter is supported. While Pakistan would have some diplomatic pull with figures in the Afghan government, there is little incentive for them to effectively negotiate. It is also clear, given Pakistan's lackadaisical pursuit of any links to Al Queda and the like, their priorities are simply not in line with ours.

Link to story at csmonitor.com
http://www.csmonitor.com/2009/1122/p06s01-wosc.html

A fee-for-all

SG SHOULD GET STUDENT INPUT ON NEW REITZ
(The Alligator)

It's hard to miss the overwhelming beaucracy of the UF student government. Unite conquered the election in an almost fascist sense and Greek control over the inner workings of collegiate politics is as blatent as the religious beliefs of the fundamentalists in Turlington. Now, that's all fine and dandy until we, the student body, are paying out of pocket for rennovations we were not even consulted over. Perhaps our union is fine as is or, even if it's not ideal, it simply isn't worth the excess in student fees we'd be paying to make SG's dream union a reality. Just as federal government requires transparency to ensure legitimacy, the same concept applies to SG as well -- how can a student body have faith in a government in which they feel they have no say in?

Inflated egoes

BALLOON BOYS PARENTS PLEAD GUILTY
(People)

Richard and Mayumi Heene pleaded guilty before a court in Ft. Collins, Colorado to the charges of false  reporting to authorities and attempts to influence a public servant, both regarding the hoax surrounding their son, Falcon "Balloon Boy" Heene. Okay. We get it. Fame hungry family has to fess up to the crimes they so stupidly committed. Is the public still eating it up? For some reason, yes. Personally, I'm pretty sick of the entire ordeal. It's passe -- this is America, I find it hard to believe that by now, the insane lengths people will go to for notoriety are still shocking. We have a financial crisis, a war in Afghanistan, and a seriously undercovered health care debate in Congress. National media, stick to covering what really matters, otherwise you're just full of hot air.


Link to story at people.com
http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20319854,00.html

"Youth in Asia?"

BABY IN BRITISH COURT BATTLE DIES
(CNN)

The 13-month-old known as Baby RB has finally passed away after the resolution of a legal battle between his mother and father finally came to an end as the father agreed to have RB's life support stopped in his best interest. Despite his initial objection, the father ultimately agreed to allow his baby boy to pass on "in a planned way, with the administration of a large dose of sedative, the removal of the ventilation tube and his consequent death." Naturally, the ominous ethical question rears its head -- who had the ultimate say? Was the father right in trying to preserve his son's life at any cost or was the mother who judged her son's life not by its length but its quality. The father claimed the baby could play, while the hospital was steadfast in saying his progressive disease caused great discomfort and other respiratory problems. The article itself merely hinted at the issue at it seems almost fruitless to address it in international news stories such as this. The allusions were clear, but the article kept it diplomatic and stuck to the empirical facts.

I've always personally grappled with this issue, especially after the most recent episode of House, M.D. in which the character Chase knowingly misdiagnoses an African dictator (played by the oh-so-suave James Earl Jones) so that he passes away without much of a trace of blame on the diagnostics staff. Was he sacrificing a human life to spare others as a hero, or a demon himself for taking another life? Is the father selfish for wanting to keep his son alive at all costs, or does he believe his son would've wanted to be alive? Sure, it's a stretch connection to a point, but it comes down to the value of a human life and if it is worth preserving in either its most empty form or at the expense of others.


Link to story at cnn.com
http://www.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/europe/11/15/uk.baby.dies/index.html

A naynay for the vajayjay

NEW WARNING ON 'PERFECT VAGINAS'
(BBC)

The United States is not the only nation succumbing to the plastic trend. The UK has also seen a dramatic rise in surgeries to improve aesthetic appearances; however, tummy tucks and Botox are not the end to the lengths women will go to to seem appealing to the opposite sex. Labial surgeries have seen an alarming spike amidst what appears to be an ignorant general populace.

"Labioplasty, as it is known, costs about £3,000 privately and is offered for a variety of reasons: some women complain that wearing tight clothes or riding a bike is uncomfortable, while others say they are embarrassed in front of a sexual partner."

While research from the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology emphasize the dangers of these operations when done unnecessarily, surgeons seem to agree that the risk the research shows is hyperbolized. I respect the BBC from giving both sides of the issue -- they don't appear to commit to either side. I must agree, though, that the comparisons between labioplasty and FGM seem a little stretched to tear at the heartstrings, though there are inherent risks with any surgery. The point is that women strive for unrealistic bodies that simply cannot be attained without a nip here or a tuck here and, quite frankly, it's time we stopped snooping about men's magazines to see what our spouses or significant others desire. Let them have their fantasies and if they cannot come to you -- a real woman -- and be satisfied despite your human imperfections, they're simply not mature enough for you and it's time to move on.

In the end, whether or not labioplasty is physically dangerous, the psychological ramifications of being so uncomfortable with your appearance in a place most people (usually) don't exhibit everyday are unparalleled. Ever seen Repo! The Genetic Opera? Let's not even get into how to PAY for such luxuries.


Link to story at bbc.com
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/8352711.stm

No small roles, only small actors? Yeah, if you're a midget.

SMALL ROLES STILL ALLOW FOR HUMOR, REVENGE
(The Alligator/Erik Voss)

I'm beginning to feel almost creepy considering how often I wind up commenting on my own improv mentor's columns but I've got to say -- Erik really knows how to serve up humor in the strangest and most relatable packages. Here he addresses the innate desire to impress those we despise if only for the cheapest form of validation (in this case, his elementary school drama teacher). I know I've been there; those demeaning school plays that pit toddler divas against one another as if Miss Smith the drama teacher with a BA in English was a legitimate Broadway producer. Alas, poor Erik (I knew him well?) and myself were often confined to small roles (him for his unfortunate phallic object and me for just being a forgettable sort of girl). His desire to ruin the ambiance of the play with one apathetic "hooray" really does hit home to that inner desire to adhere to "if I can't have it, nobody can" mentality.Sure, it's wrong -- but is it funny coming from a third grader? Heck yes.

Good show, little vengeful Erik. Take a bow.

Machin' me crazy

MACHEN TICKETED IN PARKING LOT INCIDENT
(The Gainesville Sun)

"University of Florida President Bernie Machen was ticketed by Gainesville police Friday night for hitting another car in a downtown parking lot and failing to leave information on the car, police said Saturday." Allegedly, Machen did not seem to think there had been any damage and left the scene to go to dinner, leaving the parking lot attendant to tell the owner of the red Camry that the UF president had backed into his/her car. The officer at the scene said this was a criminal violation and a court date would be necessary.

As one of the top schools in the nation, it would be nice if our president could set a mature example. Not too impressive if he can't even fess up to a minor fender bender in place of a fancy schmancy dinner that could most definitely have waited 5 minutes for him to scribble a note. For crying out loud, you're the figurehead of a top education institution -- take responsibility for your actions! 


Link to story at gainesville.com:
http://www.gainesville.com/article/20091108/NEWS/911079895/1002?Title=Machen-ticketed-in-parking-lot-incident

Keep your hands down, they're not playing your song

MILEY THE FRAUD -- I'VE NEVER HEARD A JAY-Z SONG
(TMZ)

"Party In the USA" -- it's on every radio station, in every store, and everyone's humming it on the bus. The undeniably catchy tune from teen sensation Miley Cyrus has everyone jamming. The line "and a Jay-Z song was on" would lead one to wonder, "Well, what Jay-Z song has Ms. Cyrus singing?" And the answer is none as the pop starlet was unable to name any songs when posed the question and claims she's never even heard a Jay-Z song in her life. Look, we know you don't write your own music, but at least do a little background research before you make a smash hit music video.

Link to story at tmz.com:
http://www.tmz.com/2009/11/06/miley-cyrus-jay-z-song-video/

Cushion for the kushin'

SAVE THE POT DEALERS!
(Time)

"They're almost as bad off as journalists." Who are we talking about, here? Actors? Nope. English majors? Eh, possibly. More like marijuana dealers. For you see, especially in California where obtaining a medical marijuana license is easier than a driver's license, most have turned away from their dependable dealers in favor of allowing the strong hand of capitalism to feed their need.

I think what's most endearing about this article is its blatent honesty -- there's no candy coating the fact that the author himself bullshit the system to get weed (as did his wife) and that the War on Drugs hasn't really accomplished much more than creating an army of hipster smokers. ("Also, legitimizing pot hasn't created more users; it has just produced more annoying ones, who now apply Whole Foods--ian levels of snobbiness to the differences between Hawaiian Sativa and Humboldt Indica.") Does this call for another bailout to save the suffering back-alley marijuana industry? Not quite. But a legalization of it would certainly cut the crap out of the bureacratic system in which obtaining a medical marijuana license through deceit. Save everyone the trouble and just let it go, feds.

Link to story at time.com:
http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1934996-2,00.html

An eye for an eye?

BRANDON SPIKES EYE GOUGING VIDEO: FLORIDA GATOR SUSPENDED FOR EYE POKING
(Huffington Post)

Coach Urban Meyer has suspended star linebacker Brandon Spikes from the first half of the Vanderbilt game after Spikes attempted to gouge the eyes of running back Washaun Ealey during the Florida-Georgia game this past Saturday. According to Meyer, it was retaliation for an earlier play in which Spikes' eyes almost met a similar fate.

I love my Florida Gators and I've been an avid football fan as long as I can remember (I'm thinking womb), but I have to say that it's actions like these that really make me lose faith in sports. Yes, Spikes is a valuable player to the team as a whole but the consequences to his actions seem almost trivial. It was an admittedly deliberate act and the punishment should reflect that. Of course this happens all the time in the NFL, yes, but there are viral videos spiraling about the Internet that simply cannot be ignored.

Sorry, Spikes -- Hammurabi just isn't for everyone.


Link to story and video at huffingtonpost.com
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/11/02/brandon-spikes-eye-gougin_n_342401.html


Edit: I wrote this before I had many of the later details of the story, including Ealey's defense of Spikes and the like. Totally unjournalistic of me, right? Anyway, my opinion on the matter has changed since then so bear that in mind before I get a horde of angry Gators at me with pitchforks and torches. Please and thank you!

The times -- they ain't never changin'

HOSPITAL FORCES LESBIAN TO DIE ALONE
(Asterisk)


Allegedly, Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami denied visitation rights and alerts on the condition of dying patient Lisa Pond's partner Janice Lengbehn and their adopted children despite Lengbehn having been named Power of Attorney and permission in a Living Will to make end-of-life decisions. The lawsuit was dismissed under U.S. District Judge Adalberto Jordan.

According to a testimony from Lengbehn, "...around 4pm, a social worker came out and introduced himself as Garnett Frederick and said, “you are in an anti-gay city and state. And without a health care proxy you will not see Lisa nor know of her condition." 

To think that right here in Florida (not even BFE Florida, but the progressive South Florida metropolitan area) a homosexual couple could be denied such basic rights in spite of having full legal authority to them simply on the grounds of their sexual orientation. Not even that, but that the lawsuit was closed and Jackson is allowed to turn away gay and lesbian couples from dying family members. As someone who has long supported the LGBT movement, I left positively speechless. Have we not moved from these archaic acts of prejudice? As a nation, we should be turning towards a more liberal social ideaology and, I believe, we are moving in the right direction. But these continued acts of pure bigotism are the blockades that are keeping us from making progress at the rate we should be. To deny such rights to anyone, homosexual or not, is unbearably cruel and should be viewed as a travesty towards humanity. As I bow my head in shame for this tragic occurance, I cannot help but try to keep a beacon of hope alive in my mind for the future of our nation.



For link to article at asterisk.com
http://blog.mattalgren.com/2009/09/hospital-forces-lesbian-to-die-alone/

Shattering the Stained Glass Ceiling?

CAMERON PLANS 'ALL-WOMEN LIST'
(BBC)

Conservative party leader David Cameron has made comment of the under-representation of minorities in both race and gender in Parliament and, as such, has compiled a shortlist of exclusively women that are considered higher priority prospective candidates. According to the article, "Mr Cameron made the comments as he, Gordon Brown and Lib Dem leader Nick Clegg appeared before a Speaker's Conference - an inquiry by MPs looking at how to increase the representation of women, ethnic minorities, homosexuals and disabled people in the Commons." This is an obvious at the Conservative party's attempt to modernize as to not seem old-fashioned in comparison with the liberal Tories. Tory MP Ann Widdecombe is noted saying that this would, actually, make women second-class citizens. Agreeably, if women must be segregated to a seperate list to be considered legitimately competitive candidates, they are not on par with men in British politics. Britain is known for being rather homologous and measures like this merely emphasizes this stereotype. As Lib Dem Nick Clegg put it, "Our Parliament pretends to represent modern Britain but it doesn't have modern Britain in it."


Link to story at bbc.com
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/politics/8314322.stm

Local news, now available nationwide!

Update on speakers in class:

Today we heard from an editor from The New York Times who is developing a project called The Local. The project, aimed at expanding the demographic for the coverage of local news touts the slogan "Your town. Your neighborhood. Your block. Covered by you and for you."

The residents of the targeted areas for the project are able to send in video clips, photos, news stories, or anything else the Times asks of them, in addition begging for suggestions from the general public. In competition with other similar projects such as Patch.com, the Times is really trying to step up their game with appealing to neighborhoods aching to make the world seem a bit smaller. In my opinion, they're succeeding -- coverage of events such as the collapse of a building are now enhanced with photos and videos from those directly involved. Otherwise forgettable events like town meetings are covered now in such depth, one truly realizes how much can be accomplished and how relevant they are to one's day-to-day life in the city.
It makes news seem more personal; instead of listening to it at 11 PM, you as a resident are out covering it, making it, and spreading the word.

In a world in which national news is the hot thing, this reminds us the world outside your front door is worth noticing, too.


Link to The Local at nytimes.com:
http://www.nytimes.com/marketing/thelocal/

It's a bird! It's a plane! Oh...it's just a Falcon.

COLORADO BOY SAFE AFTER FLYING SAUCER SCARE
(ABC News)

Falcon Heene, a six-year-old from Fort Collins, Colorado, was thought to have floated over the state for two hours when a "homemade flying saucer" got lose from his parents' yard and he went missing as well. Luckily, it was found out when the saucer landed and he was not inside that, in fact, he had spent that time hiding in the attic. Allegedly, his father had reprimanded the boy for playing with the aircraft and he retreated to the attic. As all great things eventually are, it's been found out after an interview on Larry King Live with guest host Wolf Blitzer that his parents, Mayumi and Richard Heene, were guests on the television show Wife Swap, and that the entire balloon stunt was for the sake of publicity. Is anyone particularly surprised by this in any way? I mean...and experimental aircraft in the backyard of a family's home that they're son happened to wander into and float away in Wizard of Oz-style? Plus the sketchy fact that they didn't bother to thoroughly check the attic? Puh-leese. However, good job on the verbal gaffe, little Falcon; kids say the darndest things!

Link to story at abcnews.com:
http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/year-boy-floats-homemade-flying-saucer/Story?id=8837704&page=1

The only thing redder than the leaves are our faces

LEAF US ALONE
(Newsweek)

When one, especially a Floridian like myself, envisions a New England autumn, we think dazzling displays of multicolored foliage, a crisp scent in the air, and holistically the pre-season to a Currier and Ives print. However, from a local's point of view, they're nothing more than a pain in the rear and us tourists (or "leaf voyeurs") simply clog up the highways. Leaves are apparently Hell's gift to the human race as they bring nothing but pain and sorrow on the poor inhabitants of the north who must spend the remainder of the fall season raking them until kingdom come.

The piece itself is quite comical as the utter exasperation and disdain on the part of author Raina Kelley juxtaposed with what we tropical inhabitants see as majestic, peaceful, and worth spending a weekend just staring at giraffe food.

Link to story at newsweek.com:
http://www.newsweek.com/id/216512?GT1=43002

A lens-eye view

It's most certinaly the worst feeling in the world when you have a lovely blog entry typed up, Mozilla crashes, and you're left with a blank slate when you restore your window. Alas, I currently harbor that pang in the pit of my stomach. Thus, I shall be brief!


Today in class we had a speaker from The New York Times demonstrate and discuss the videography industry in today's media. Now, what I had previously viewed as simply sitting idly by filming events has manifested itself more as actually creating them. Of course, I'm not saying that it was staged but a fair amount of coaxing and reiteration is necessary to get an adequate and discriptive answer to questions from people who are instinctivly nervous and tight-lipped, especially if background narration is a no-no. It was thrilling listening to him because he was so genuinely passionate about his work and his career that he picked up so late in life. As a videographer, you don't just film the action, you're a part of it.

NO-bel?

SURPRISE NOBEL FOR OBAMA STIRS PRAISE AND DOUBT
(The New York Times)

 Around the globe, people both cheered and scratched their head in puzzlement at the choice of Barack Obama to receive a 2009 Nobel Peace Prize that was announced this Friday. Considering his short term thus far in the presidency, it has left many people wondering how deserving young Obama is of this particular honor. The committee, which has chosen to award him on the grounds of “extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples,” seemed to be almost a proclamation of hope for a better and brighter tomorrow. While Republicans (and even a few skeptical Democrats) view this as simply Europe's infatuation with his rhetorical prowess, the committee has assured that its decision was based on based on "...Mr. Obama’s actual efforts toward nuclear disarmament as well as American engagement with the world relying more on diplomacy and dialogue."

Obama himself expressed his own surprise in which he was humbled by being in the company of other such accomplished figures. From my perspective, whether or not it was deserved based upon the actions he has accomplished, it is a metaphorical fire under Mr. President's behind to live up to such glory. It is awkward enough as is to accept an award that has come under such scrutiny from both sides of the political spectrum -- it would be even worse to simply coast at this point. Let us hope this will serve as inspiration for President Obama to live up to the standards that the Nobel committee and the world have set in place for him.

Link to story at nytimes.com
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/10/world/10nobel.html?_r=2&scp=1&sq=obama%20nobel%20peace%20prize&st=cse

Braaaaaaaiiiinnnnnsssss....get some.

ZOMBIE PREPARDNESS PLAN REMOVED FROM WEB SITE
(The Alligator)

Doug Johnson's nerdy lovechild, a Zombie Prepardness Plan added to the UF E-Learning Support Services Web site last week was taken down Thursday afternoon. According to Johnson, "UF is searching for a new Chief Information Officer (CIO) and it was felt that the plan would hamper the seriousness of the search, which is a very valid reason for removal." The plan, entitled Zombie Attack Disaster Prepardness Simulation Exercise #5, laid out plans in case of the event of a campus-wide zombie epidemic. After having garned national coverage for the plan, UF has gained much respect in the geek subculture. Like vampires, zombies are all the rage, even sparking parodies of classic novels such as Pride and Prejudice and Zombies. When you think about it, it's a pretty legitimate plan to have -- you never know you needed it until it's too late and, I don't know about you, but I'd rather know what kind of pistol to have on me to take down one of those undead suckers. While business is business, it'd be nice to know my fellow Gators are safe, too.

Edit: As a member of Theatre Strike Force, I'm also just going to go back and edit this post to include a photo of our zombie attack plan-inspired flashmob. Shameless self-promotion...alright!

Versailles Burger -- now with extra snooty!

RESTAURANT CHAINS AIMS FOR UPSCALE AMBIENCE
(THE ASSOCIATED PRESS)

Burger King Co. has opted to swap it's generic fast-food joint interior in favor of a "sleek interior" and rotating flame chandeliers. In a statement from Chairman and CEO John Chidsey, "I'd call it more contemporary, edgy, futuristic." Thus far, remodeled restuarants have seen a spike in sales upwards of 12 to 15 percent. Okay, that's really great, Burger King. But, personally, when I go to a fast food restuarant, it isn't for the atmosphere of being in a legitimate beef castle -- it's for your fast and efficient flame broiled mediocrity. An upscale burger is probably my last concern upon entering a Burger King and I'm sure the majority of their patrons (kiddies and college-age students) couldn't give a rat's patootie what the interior looks like. In addition, these alterations will cost between a whopping* $300,000 and $600,000 PER RESTAURANT. The economy is lagging and franchise owners are expected to make these changes by a deadline. While sales may have spiked, they are surely not enough to cover the expenses brought on by these seemingly unnecessary alterations. If corporate really has that much money to spend, put it towards developing new menu items or better toys in kids' meals. Mine always break.

Plasma television menus don't enhance my food-going experience mostly because fast food itself is an experience and attempting to enhance that is merely altering that experience. You dig?

* pun worthy of a footnote.

The Lettuce Life

THE CRITICISM RALPH LAUREN DOESN'T WANT YOU TO SEE!
(Boing Boing)

As if women don't have enough problem, here's yet another example of the fashion industry inspiring squadrons of bulimic women desperate to stay hip to the latest trends by starving themselves to unrealistic proportions. Just recently we discussed the ethic of photoshopping in class and here we are -- this is obviously completely altered. For goodness sake, her head is bigger than her pelvis! Is this any way attractive? In all honesty, I'm sure the model shown is positively mortified that she looks like some sort of alien, sub-human species. And here, the company who blogged about the lunacy of Ralph Lauren's marketing ploy is being sued. However, they are not backing down in the face of opposition and are using this as an opportunity to mock the pompous figureheads of the Ralph Lauren company. Hear, hear!

The ethics of journalism should still apply to advertisers, who are obviously getting away with murder. Had a journalist falsely edited a photograph, well the media would be up in arms against their fellow reporter. But apparently the leeway the ad industry gets gives the fashion industry the audacity to destroy the expectations of their audience. Eat a sandwich and get a clue.

Link to story at boingboing.net:
http://www.boingboing.net/2009/10/06/the-criticism-that-r.html

"Oh, golly gee! The circus is in town!"

TRIP TO DOCTOR TRIGGERS ERECTION, HUMILIATION
(The Alligator/Erik Voss)

So I was pretty pumped when I realized my improv teacher was not only one cool dude, but also had my dream position on The Alligator as resident humor columnist. I eagerly awaited his next column in The Avenue when I learned his position. As I skimmed the pages, the headline immediately caught my attention for...er, obvious reasons. See, when someone becomes your mentor in a sense, they take on an almost superhuman persona. Despite the fact he's only three years my senior, he's still someone I look up to. And well, apparently "up" is something Erik knows a lot about. Being in the world of comedy on a daily basis, nothing is off limits -- pretty much all you wind up talking about during routine conversation involves sex, erections, laughing about them ,and what you could do with them in a scene. But this was legitimate. This wasn't hypothetical arousal, this actually happened. Erik also did a fantastic job capturing the mindset of his 13-year-old self with hilarious metaphors. ("If you combine a loose cannon dangling between my legs with a sexy professional making six figures a year, the only response to such a request [to remove pants for an examination] is: 'Fire in the hole!'" is brilliant. Just brilliant.) So here I am, sitting, laughing hysterically, unable to get the notion of pubescent Erik Voss' sexual awkwardness out of my head. Should I feel bashful? Amused? Forget about it? High five him at rehearsal? I chose the latter and it was a cool move on my part. I still look up to him probably more than I should, but that human quality remains.

Lesson learned: Even gods get boners.


Link to story at alligator.org
http://www.alligator.org/the_avenue/columns/article_2acf0bf2-3d0d-5e18-b146-18d35db475cd.html

No one expects the Spanish Inquisition!

MONTY PYTHON - STILL ON COMEDY'S FLYING TRAPEZE
(THE NEW YORK TIMES)

40 years later as of today from the premiere of the groundbreaking television show Monty Python's Flying Circus and the the merry men still have it. As someone who dabbles in the comedy sphere with a heavy hand, I can say with complete assurance that Monty Python has played a huge role in shaping contemporary comedy in everything from improv to sketch, television to comedic films. Alas, since then, the members have all gone their separate ways doing such scholarly things as making documentaries and dreaming about Don Quixote remakes (yes, Terry Gilliam. You are the only American and by far the strangest of them).

However, on Oct. 15, the five remaining troupe members (Graham Chapman succumbed to throat cancer in 1989) will reunite at the Ziegfeld Theatre. The Independant Film Channel (IFC) will also broadcast a six-hour documentary entitled Monty Python: Almost the Truth (The Lawyer's Cut) beginning Oct. 18. As an avid Python fan since my elementary years, I'm most enthused to see that even in what seems like a completely vapid society, we can still appreciate what is British (and, therefore, awesome).


Link to story at nytimes.com
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/04/arts/television/04mcgr.html?_r=1

Following the yellow brick road to Crazy Town

THE MOTHER OF ALL PARTIES
(Dave Barry)


Dave Barry has always had a way with words -- fact. There's just something about his writing that's just personably hilarious. Barry reflects on the traumas of raising a daughter in the Keeping Up With the Jones' ideology perpetuated by his well-meaning but overbearing wife bent on outdoing other moms who appear to love their children more based upon the outrageous time and money investment on a party the kids will likely forget the week later. His wife's dedication to the "Wizard of Oz" theme despite obvious safety hazards is all too common.

His turn of phrase and tongue-in-cheek monologue is unbelievably readable (the House of Really Slippery Surfaces is now my favorite department store). His theory of a dad-thrown birthday party was spot-on amusing. Nothing quite hits home like the fond memories of your parents arguing over such a supposedly joyous occasion as your day of conception – mum screaming at the top of her lungs about how the clown that was hired “just wasn’t good enough” and your dad marveling at how they managed to spend $200 on just feeding a battalion of 3rd graders. A happy birthday, indeed.


This classic Dave Barry column was published Jan. 25, 2004.
Also, as a footnote, this is the article I decided to use for the in-class article swap.

I am sick and tired of these motherf!#*! skits on this motherf!#*! show

"SNL" NEWBIE DROPS THE F-BOMB ON AIR
(NBC WASHINGTON)

This past Saturday was the season premiere for the newest season of the classic late night laugh-fest, Saturday Night Live. I was sitting on the couch with a few friends, sipping a Coke and discussing the nasty injury of Tim Tebow only hours before. We paused our conversation during "Biker Chick Chat," a new sketch featuring one of SNL's newest players, Jenny Slate, with comedy vetern Kristin Wiig. It started off normally enough, if not a bit redundant with all the "freakin' this" and "freakin' that." And that's when IT happened -- the slip-up that is every performers worst nightmare. She dropped the F-bomb loud, clear and on live television. After utilizing our TiVo's rewind mechanism at least twenty-seven times, we were abuzz with what had just happened. Naturally, the censors were unable to react so quickly and the entire east coast heard her blunder.

According to the article, "Whether Slate's expletive was intentional wasn't clear, but the actress did puff out her cheeks after the swear word to indicate her embarrassment and apparent regret at her slip-up." I feel like it's fairly obvious that she wouldn't swear on air on purpose. Especially considering she had been saying "freakin'" so many times, it seems like a natural diction accident. Yet, many have been quick to attack this, calling Slate "foul mouthed." It was a verbal gaffe and nothing more. Currently, it is unknown whether or not disciplinary action will be taken against Slate.

Let it go, America, we all make freakin' mistakes.



For link to story at nbcwashington.com
http://www.nbcwashington.com/entertainment/television/NATL-SNL-Newbie-Drops-the-F-Bomb-On-Air-62104947.html

If You Can't Stand the Heat, Get Outta the Dorm

AT TUFTS, AN ATTEMPT TO PROHIBIT SEX WHILE A ROOMMATE IS IN THE ROOM
(THE NEW YORK TIMES/THE CHOICE)

I can sense an overpowering theme in my entries as of late -- common sense (or a lack thereof, nowadays). Back in the day, when you wanted a roll in the hay, you didn't actually want your roommate sitting there watching. Unless you're into that whole Peeping Tom fetish, it's just not something one generally would want to engage in -- or so we thought. According to complaints that had surfaced in the residential life office of Tufts University, many students were complaining that their roommate's sexual activities were becoming disruptive, to the point where they could no longer sleep or study in peace and wholesome quiet.

Alas, we have come to the point in society in which it's necessary for a university to make a "new stipulation to its guest policy" dictating that we cannot engage in sexual activity in the presence of our roommate. No. Freakin'. Way. According to the article and Carrie Ales-Rich, assistant director for community and judicial affairs in the residential life office, "...the policy was not intended to dictate behavior."Well, I should hope not. It seems students today are babied enough, they're hand being held throughout the entire transition process between home and college. As a college freshman myself, I can assure you I did not need seminar after seminar of eating healthy, getting along with roommates, and other basic human functions that others apparently need to be spoon-fed. It's honestly quite pathetic that a school must intervene in the personal lives of students because some are too thick to think of such acts as irresponsible and rude. Simply put, if you don't have common courtesy, you don't belong in college.



Link at blogs.nytimes.com:
http://thechoice.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/09/29/tufts-sex/

Swhine flu

SOME DOUBT HAND WASHING STOPS H1N1
(CNN)

Swine flu. H1N1. Piggy sickness? Whatever you want to call it, it's the flu. And come flu season, there's suddenly a spike in Purrell sales as everyone from hobos to year-round germaphobes break out the hand sanitizer and scrub themselves down as if they were performing open heart surgery. Yet, as these Monk clones are saddened to learn, studies show that, unlike the common cold, rigorous hand washing isn't a particularly effective measure to preventing strains of influenza. While the common cold is transferred by hand-to-mouth/nose/eyes contact with bacteria, the influenza virus is most potent when airbourne or mixed with water. Simply put, you're more likely to get the flu from someone sneezing than shaking their hand.

"Everyone's eager to promote hand washing, and certainly it won't do any harm, but to rely on a hand washing as a way to prevent influenza is a serious mistake," said Arthur Reingold, professor of epidemiology at the University of California-Berkeley. Frequent hand washing has become merely a security blanket -- it does not substitute for coming into work sick or making allowance for those around you who could potentially be carriers for the virus. Our society is legitimately bound to Germ-X, I can't go anywhere without seeing mini bottles dangling from key chains or belt loops. Not to say that sanitation is unnecessary, I scrub my digits before every meal and occasionally just when I feel icky. But my science teacher in my freshman year in high school admitted that hand sanitizer was the worst thing for humanity as our immune systems are officially caput thanks to their dependancy on foreign substances to do their job for them.

While hand washing is a perfectly viable means to stay clean, exercise good judgement when it comes to sickness. Thomas Paine (whom I fondly refer to as T-Pain) emphasized it best -- common sense.



Link to story at cnn.com
http://www.cnn.com/2009/HEALTH/09/24/hand.washing.helpful/index.html

GOIN 2 STOP ON 23RD ST LOL, C U L8R

FEDS WEIGH CELL PHONE BAN FOR BUS, TRUCK DRIVERS
(MSNBC)

After safety studies (and a few high-profile accidents) have shown, cell phone usage by mass transit drivers is dangerous. No. Freaking. Way. But, unlike the Bush administration, the Obama administration is actually pressing the issue farther, rather than letting it stagnate on a nebulous To-Do list. According to the article, "The NTSB's recommendation was prompted by a 2004 accident in which the driver of a motorcoach carrying students on a trip to Washington became so engrossed in a cell phone conversation that he failed to notice signs that said the height of an upcoming bridge was nearly 2 feet less than the height of the bus. The bus slammed into the underside of the bridge, shearing off the roof and injuring 11 passengers."

Yeah, the article had a liberal slant. Yeah, it was justified. Honestly, bus drivers texting? Common sense, people. The wheels on the bus go 'round and 'round until they get tangled up in a tree because the bus driver was having a fight with his girlfriend.


Link to story at msnbc.com
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/33001645/ns/technology_and_science-wireless/

I am not a crook. But I MIGHT be a pervert.

WHY ARE SOME POLITICIANS FORGIVEN IN SEX SCANDALS?
(CNN)

A spattering of new allegations have surfaced condemning Democratic senator John Edwards concerning his extramarital affair with one Ms. Hunter back during his run for presidency last year. While always the classy man, he apologized to his ailing wife, his Lord, and then laid to rest claims that he is, in fact, Hunter's baby daddy. While we moved on with our lives and left Edwards to wallow in his shame, alas, new information is being gathered in Yente Central! A recent article from The New York Times alleges that he might be the father after all. No, this isn't an episode of General Hospital, our nation really does prioritize this over health care reform and stability in Afghanistan.

Another charge includes a claim that Edwards promised his mistress a wedding after his dear wife met her maker. Okay, look -- if this is true, Edwards needs to find a pothole of boiling goo and fall in it. If it's not, then the bastard who made this up needs to meet the same fate. Yet, aside from these raw allegations, the true question is what allows some politicians (namely Billy Clinton, ahem ahem) a "pass" so to speak, while others such as Eliot Spitzer will forever be simply "That Guy with the Hookers." For crying out loud, Newt Gingrich was having an affair while he was impeaching Clinton...for having an affair (and who the f*!# would have an affair with NEWT GINGRICH? Ew.) Is it charisma? A seemingly-genuine apology? "There is an unseemly factor to what they did that sort of disgusts people that makes people think there is something fundamentally wrong with them," Leonard Steinhorn, a professor of political communications at American University said. "And I think that is why they may never recover fully unlike Bill Clinton."

Lather, rinse, repeat. Rape, repent, respite? Not so much.



Link to story at cnn.com
http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/09/21/politicians.sex.scandals/index.html

Rubber Ducky saw something he shouldn't have

BATH TIME PHOTOS PROMPT CHILD PORN ALLEGATIONS
(ABC News)

It was an average day for AJ and Lisa Demaree when they decided to get a batch of family photos developed at their local Walmart. However, when an employee found some photos that raised suspicions, the Demarees were slammed with allegations of child pornography over photos nearly every American family has -- bath time shenanigans.

"The Peoria, Ariz., couple had their home searched by police and worse, their children -- then ages 18 months, 4 and 5 -- were taken from them for more than month. Their names were placed on a sex offender registry for a time, and Lisa Demaree was suspended from her school job for a year. The couple said they have spent $75,000 on legal bills."

Although the judge threw out the case, now the Demarees are sueing the state for the "nightmare" they had to endure over something so trivial. To have one's children taken away, and to subject the children to such trauma at such a young age, is completely outrageous. I'll admit that I have those embarrassing photos that my mother likes to show my aunt..and her friends...at lunch dates. But I can guarantee 95% of my peers (at least) have suffered similar humiliation. A baby with a bare tush on a bear skin rug? Classic. Heinous? Not particularly.


Link to story at abcnews.com:
http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/arizona-couple-suing-bathtime-photos-prompt-wal-mart/Story?id=8624533&page=1

Only the Smart Die Young

YALE'S LE ABLY BALANCED SOCIAL LIFE, SCHOOL, LOVE
(CNN)

The body of slain Yale student Annie Le was found Sunday inside the wall of a university basement, the day in which she was to be married to her sweetheart.  Named "most likely to be the next Einstein" at her high school, Le certainly was of high academic caliber. But what truly set her apart was her commitment not only to her studies, but her love to her boyfriend Jon Widawsky and her friends. According to the article, "New Haven police spokesman Joe Avery has said Le's killing was not random, and authorities and those familiar with the campus say there are only a handful of people with access to the building where her body was found." The unsettling notion that the killer lives among them has shaken the Yale campus to its core.

The article itself brings a truly human perspective, highlighting Le's passions, not only her achievements. In light of this tragedy, the article's feature-esque style allows the reader to appreciate who Le was as a person, as opposed to simply the victim of another violent crime.

My thoughts are with Le's friends and family.



Link to story at cnn.com
http://www.cnn.com/2009/CRIME/09/15/connecticut.yale.student.profile/index.html

Gay fish are SUCH divas...

 

 KANYE SEES TAYLOR'S VIEW -- CALLS TO APOLOGIZE

(TMZ)

I was prepared for another dull Sunday night. I received a phone call from a buddy to come over and watch the VMAs and I accepted the expectation of oogling at Lady GaGa's insane choices in "fashion" (check!), oogling at Katy Perry's cleavage (check!), and staring with my mouth agape at just how vapid pop culture has become (check!) However, what caught my attention was the infamous Kanye West/Taylor Swift incident that included him busting on stage during her award acceptance speech, saying Beyonce deserved the award.

Yeah, Kanye. We get it -- you've convinced yourself that you've revolutionized hip hop forever and that you're the voice of a nation. That's great, we get it. But seriously, you didn't even apologize to the poor girl after your serious conduct misjudgement until she embarassed you on The View. What would your mother say, Mr. West? (oh, I went there.)


Link to story at tmz.com
http://www.tmz.com/2009/09/15/kanye-sees-taylors-view-calls-to-apologize/

Old McDonald had a farm, and on that farm he had a...blue bird?

WHO'S DRIVING TWITTER'S POPULARITY, NOT TEENS
(The New York Times)

 Despite the usual demographic who favors social networking technology, teens have not responded to Twitter as positively as venues such as MySpace and Facebook. However, given this fact, it would seem that the microblogging site would simply not take off. Quite the contrary, as it has found a solid fanbase in the older social set, as well as celebrities. “Adults are just catching up to what teens have been doing for years,” said Jeremiah Owyang, an industry analyst studying social media.

As a journalist, I view Twitter not as a useless venue for broadcasting your every thought and action (as it would be commonly misused by the general populus), but as a means for sharing photos and news updates, and even marketing purposes. The flight that landed in the Hudson River was not immediately covered by newspaper or CNN, but by Tweets. The Everyman is now a citizen journalist with the means at his fingertips to share photos, video, and other amateur coverage of events the typical reporter simply could not get to in time. It's on-the-spot reporting like this that is saving journalism as an industry -- it's relateable and we as journalists are no longer stuffy unknowns behind a Moleskine, but a part of society . As well, catering to the older crowd may prove to enhance Twitter's longevity as we have seen from the slow demise of MySpace, Livejournal and Friendster to the mercy of Facebook that teens are a very fickle audience. 


Link to story at nytimes.com:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/26/technology/internet/26twitter.html?_r=1&hp

Another year, another thought

A FORTRESS CITY THAT DIDN'T COME TO BE
(The New York Times)

Gorgeous narrative. That's my first thought when I read through the article. Yes, it's like many other 9/11 recollections (though the coverage of the day after was particularly striking) but, nevertheless, there is rarely an event in which such narration can be explored, especially in the United States. We're not particularly used to attacks on our own territory -- we're the stronghold, are we not? Alas, there comes a time when even we as one of the strongest nations in the world put our strength on hold as we take the time to heal from a tragedy of this magnitude. And, on the eighth anniversary of these events, I can only take this opportunity to reflect back upon my  own experiences. I was but a lowly fifth grader -- scared, lost and confused. My parents surprisingly did not pull me out of school, as they kept me blissfully unaware of the events unfolding. However, unbeknown to them, I was staying tuned in to MSNBC all throughout the day on my classroom's television (even as a wee child, I was news hungry). I began to worry: I had family in New York, what has become of them? Will the bad men attack Florida? As these inquiries clouded my thoughts, I came to slowly learn what had happened, though I do not think I could fully appreciate them 'til much later. I lost a dear friend to my mother's family, a devoted New York City fireman who never again came out of the wreckage of the towers. I take this day to remember him, to remember every gorgeous narrative I've heard and will hear in the future. On this day eight years ago...

where were you?


Link to story at nytimes.com:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/11/nyregion/11dayafter.html?_r=1&hp

Photo credit: Johnathaneric on flickr.com

Watkins & Wilson; woefully wasted

EXCLUSIVE: MICHAELA WATKINS 'SHOCKED' BY SNL FIRING
(Entertainment Weekly)

**DISCLAIMER: I'm a huge SNL fan since I could walk and talk. Don't hate.

Fans of the sketch comedy legend Saturday Night Live were shocked when producer Lorne Michaels announced that he would be laying off two of the show's newest and most popular players Michaela Watkins and Casey Wilson. Entertainment Weekly, unable to get word from Michaels himself, caught up with Watkins and interviewed her on the matter. What came as a shock to not only myself but to the many, many outraged commentators below the article, was that, despite being only a featured comedian as opposed to a full time cast-mate, Watkins was given much airtime. She has personified many notable characters and even admitted to having surpassed her own expectations when it came to just how much she was featured on the show. She was undoubtedly a fan favorite as I can see before my very eyes SNL enthusiasts rising with pitchforks to go wreak having on 30 Rock.

Although disappointing that the article did not contain commentary from either Michaels or Wilson, Watkins gave a pretty decent inside as to what may have led to her firing (coughLorneneedsmoneycough). Am I curious to give the new chicks a test run? Sure. But why waste a good thing? (especially since SNL is, quite frankly, a mere shadow of its former glory nowadays, aside from the Lonely Island craze) Personally, I respect Michaels as a producer, but it truly is a shame to have let go such a talent for the sake of business ventures.


Link to story from Entertainment Weekly:
http://ausiellofiles.ew.com/2009/09/04/exclusive-michaela-watkins-shocked-by-snl-firing/

Jon and Kate Plus Hate

JON GOSSELIN ON GOOD MORNING AMERICA: 'I DESPISE KATE'
(Entertainment Weekly)

Speaking to interviewer Chris Cuomo, Jon Gosselin of Jon and Kate Plus 8 fame spoke out, stating that not only does he "despise" his ex, but that their relationship is beyond repair. Ironically enough, Gosselin has kept a low profile despite being seen as the inflammatory half of the couple thanks to his pleasure romps post-seperation from Kate.

From a journalistic perspective, it was a fairly short piece that more or less just promoted the hour long spot aired on Primetime Family Secrets on ABC. The article was fairly biased in Gosselin's favor as it pointed out his blatant flame, but made an exception for his temperment merely as a response to Kate's thriving public profile. I found while reading the article that I don't particularly feel for either parent in this situation -- Kate is certianly not doing anyone any favors by prolonging the limelight, nor is Gosselin's "tit-for-tat" snark or romantic rendevous acting as damage control. As if those poor half-Asian children weren't scarred enough, Daddy's quote on Good Morning America will certainly be fodder for dysfunctional Thanksgiving chatter for years to come.


Link to story from Entertainment Weekly:
http://watching-tv.ew.com/2009/09/08/jon-gosselin-good-morning-america-i-depise-her/

BidenMyTime: Yo O, how does MySpace work?//BarackO: Ask Malia

OBAMA'S HEALTH CARE MESSAGE HARD TO CONTROL ONLINE
(CNN)

Since former Illinois senator Barack Obama announced his decision to run for the presidency what seemed like eons ago, he has become the hipster spokesperson for all things young and cool in politics. He's the president on a BlackBerry (which is apparently so fascinating it sparked this surprisingly hilarious literary gem, Obama's Blackberry)! He gives speeches on YouTube! It's a new era! The mindless youth of the nation give a shit! Hurrah! Yet, despite his grip on the current technological palooza, the messy health care debates have seemed to diminish his influence over the Internet community. According to the article itself, "The health care fight is the first time the U.S. has had a major policy debate where all sides are represented and haggling openly online, said Joe Trippi, author of The Revolution Will Not Be Televised: Democracy, the Internet, and the Overthrow of Everything."

Personally, I'm in agreement with how the article is presented -- it addresses the question and analyzes the situation fairly. The Internet is political phenomenon that was never used to this extent to debate an issue. Health care is certainly a factor that spreads across a wide demographic as, naturally, everyone is concerned about their well-being. What was once a Democratically dominated medium, the Internet has exploded into seemingly-endless debate that the Obama administration certainly has no means to control (not that any force, especially a federal one, should ever attempt to do. Who do they think they are, 4chan?) While it seems like the Obama-rama is diminishing as his viral cult seems to be disbanding, the Internet is merely fostering much-needed bipartisan debate. Obama supporters still have his back, and NObamas still have their gripes. All of the online shouting matches and obsession with verbal gaffes has seemed to overshadow true issues and real debate; if the social media can chill out and let the issue run its course, the Internet will prove to be a truly effective outlet for stimulating argumentation between a variety of perspectives. Obama will continue to Tweet, Republicans will continue to bitch, and I will sit at my desk and watch the races. And they're off!



Link to story on cnn.com
http://www.cnn.com/2009/TECH/09/03/obama.social.media.health.care/index.html

What? Stan Lee couldn't live out just ONE childhood fantasy?

 

STAN LEE SEES DISNEY-MARVEL AS A SUPER DEAL

(MSNBC)

 

Earlier this week, it was announced the The Walt Disney Company purchased the rights to the famous Marvel comic book franchise. Stan Lee, the creator of Marvel, has commented on the potential synergy for these two entertainment powerhouses to come together as a "historic deal" and benefit both parties. Lee is apparently already versed with Disney-esque business as, according to the article, "...his new company, POW! Entertainment, has a first-look deal with the company, and at the San Diego Comic-Con in July, he unveiled his first Disney project, the digital motion comic Time Jumper."

Okay, so MSNBC does a fairly unbiased account of the deal from strictly a business point of view on behalf of Lee (though, I would've liked to hear more from Disney). However, as both a comic geek and Disney fanatic since age...well, since womb, the article just rubs me the wrong way. It's not the writing, it's not even the article itself -- I just have a strict divide between Disney fantasy and comic fantasy. They are on completely different stratospheres and God help the day when Mickey Mouse joins the Fantastic Four. Don't get me wrong, though -- I'm not simply bashing Disney for being an entertainment conglomorate. Disney has been a beloved part of my childhood. However, from my perspective, Lee simply has seen the the monetary success of big budget films based upon the comics and has decided to cash in using the Disney Corporation as a vehicle to do so. Is it financially savvy? Heck yeah. Is it a let-down to comic geeks everywhere? As Sarah Palin would say, "You betcha!"

Link to story on msnbc.com:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/32645353/ns/business-media_biz/

Three times the charm? Not this time.

MISSING GIRL'S MOM FINDS HOPE IN CALIFORNIA CASE
(CNN)

The recovery of the long-missing Jaycee Dugard struck the interest of other families whose daughters have met a similar plight. After being found living in a compound behind Phillip Garrido's home, Sharon Murch, whose daughter went missing around the same time as Dugard, has been given hope that her daughter may still be alive. Other sources, such as MSNBC, have discussed the issue, though CNN has given the perspective of other families in a similar circumstance a more in-depth analysis and background.

Personally, I really feel for this story. I'm trying empathize with how the families of these other young girls must feel and, quite honestly, I'm coming up short. It's simply too deep an emotion to even fathom at my ripe young age of 18. Yet, the article itself, namely the interview with Murch, really does allow the reader to see not only the feeling of loss, but the hope that this breakthrough in the case of Dugard has given her.


Link to to story on cnn.com
http://www.cnn.com/2009/CRIME/09/01/missing.girl.cases/index.html?iref=mpstoryview