Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Post #14 5/12/09 Picking Out the Bad Fruit
Darryl Strawberry was one of the most popular players in baseball during his career, which began in 1983 and ended in 1999. Drafted as the first overall pick in 1980, his future in the sport seemed bright. Three years later he went on to earn National League's Rookie of the Year award, and after that he was voted to the all-star team eight consecutive times. He also helped the New York Mets and the New York Yankees to win the World Series, which earned him four rings As his career blossomed, he became one of the most intimidating hitters and his swing was often compared to that of Ted Williams, arguably one of the greatest hitters of the game. However, unlike the success he had on the field, he had some failures off of it.
Unlike the controversy of steroids surrounding baseball today, Strawberry suffered from substance abuse. As a result he spent time in prison. Along with that he even had a battle with cancer. But after all is said and done, he does not regret any of the decisions he has made.
Like he said, “I'm not ashamed of who I am. Of course I'm ashamed of the things that have happened. But with life experiences, you're able to give back and help others.”
By making bad decisions we are given the oppurtunity to learn what we did wrong, and able to evaluate the whole situation so that we know what we should do when another scenario of the sort occurs again. Sure some of us would want to go back in time and do what he had done on the contrary, but we would not have the knowledge of what to do under situations like that.
By going to jail Strawberry had plenty of time to recuperate, and analyze the chioces he made during his life. When he finally got out he was able to clean himself up and was able to "find his way."
In his book "Finding My Way" he discusses the family conflicts he had at a young age that lead him to drugs and alcohol. Then through a long process of thought he tells readers how he was able to clean himself upand overcome his past. Through his mistakes he was able to learn about what his true identity was. After his epiphany he has started a few organizations willing to help others such as The Darryl Strawberry Foundation.
Like Strawberry, we should not avoid our pst decisions that were bad, but welcome them as life teachings. We need to realize that not only what we did was wrong, but to also find away how we can make it right the next time. This way we can make the right choice and help others to avoid making the extremely bad chioces.
Here is some more information about The Straw Man.
http://espn.go.com/classic/biography/s/Strawberry_Darryl.html
Monday, May 4, 2009
Post #13 5/5/09 Life Commencements
As far as it may seem, the end of the school year is approaching and graduation is just around the corner for this year's senior classes. Before we know it we will be in their position, sitting down in our caps and gowns listening to someone give a commencement speech. No matter what, as we continue to move on to new chapters, we are constantly learning not only from the past but how we should lead our lives.
One of the most inspiring commencement addresses to me was that of Steve Jobs. As most of you may know Steve Jobs is the CEO of Apple. However, in his commencement speech he revealed much information that many of us did not know and probably would have never guessed. Put up for adoption, not attending college, and being diagnosed with a rare type of Pancreatic cancer, were several things he spoke about. Linking them to the importance of "finding what you love" he wanted to leave the new grads with the curiosity to simply to what they love and if they do not know what their love is, to find it. In his very own life Steve Jobs followed his own heart. It was his choice to drop out of college, yet by following his heart he provided himself with the confidence to do what he desired and overall, it was by far the best decision he has ever made. After finding Apple in his parents garage at the age of twenty he was actually fired since the company sided with the other co-founder. But that did not stop him nor the love he had for his job and what he did.
He would later find a company called NeXT, and help find the company Pixar which would both blow up. Apple would eventually buy NeXT, and Pixar would grow into animation's finest company.
If he would have stayed in college, Apple may have never been founded. If he never stayed compassionate for his job, maybe Apple would not be what it is now. But that was not the point of his speech. The point was to show these Stanford grads how integral it is to find what you love, no matter how difficult it is, and to do it.
Like Steve Jobs said,
"Sometimes life hits you in the head with a brick. Don't lose faith. I'm convinced that the only thing that kept me going was that I loved what I did. You've got to find what you love. And that is as true for your work as it is for your lovers. Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle. As with all matters of the heart, you'll know when you find it. And, like any great relationship, it just gets better and better as the years roll on. So keep looking until you find it. Don't settle."
"Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma — which is living with the results of other people's thinking. Don't let the noise of others' opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary."
Not only was his speech very inspiring but very true. By failing to do something you do not love and choosing to live someone else's life you lose a sense of who you are and live a life full of regrets. Do your own thing even if it requires you to continue searching for what yo want to do. Just do not give up searching, because only time will tell you when you know what you want to do. Just be open and continue to learn.
Here is his complete commencement address.
Here is a list of other notable college commencement addresses that hopefully you will learn something from.
http://www.humanity.org/voices/commencements/
One of the most inspiring commencement addresses to me was that of Steve Jobs. As most of you may know Steve Jobs is the CEO of Apple. However, in his commencement speech he revealed much information that many of us did not know and probably would have never guessed. Put up for adoption, not attending college, and being diagnosed with a rare type of Pancreatic cancer, were several things he spoke about. Linking them to the importance of "finding what you love" he wanted to leave the new grads with the curiosity to simply to what they love and if they do not know what their love is, to find it. In his very own life Steve Jobs followed his own heart. It was his choice to drop out of college, yet by following his heart he provided himself with the confidence to do what he desired and overall, it was by far the best decision he has ever made. After finding Apple in his parents garage at the age of twenty he was actually fired since the company sided with the other co-founder. But that did not stop him nor the love he had for his job and what he did.
He would later find a company called NeXT, and help find the company Pixar which would both blow up. Apple would eventually buy NeXT, and Pixar would grow into animation's finest company.
If he would have stayed in college, Apple may have never been founded. If he never stayed compassionate for his job, maybe Apple would not be what it is now. But that was not the point of his speech. The point was to show these Stanford grads how integral it is to find what you love, no matter how difficult it is, and to do it.
Like Steve Jobs said,
"Sometimes life hits you in the head with a brick. Don't lose faith. I'm convinced that the only thing that kept me going was that I loved what I did. You've got to find what you love. And that is as true for your work as it is for your lovers. Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle. As with all matters of the heart, you'll know when you find it. And, like any great relationship, it just gets better and better as the years roll on. So keep looking until you find it. Don't settle."
"Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma — which is living with the results of other people's thinking. Don't let the noise of others' opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary."
Not only was his speech very inspiring but very true. By failing to do something you do not love and choosing to live someone else's life you lose a sense of who you are and live a life full of regrets. Do your own thing even if it requires you to continue searching for what yo want to do. Just do not give up searching, because only time will tell you when you know what you want to do. Just be open and continue to learn.
Here is his complete commencement address.
Here is a list of other notable college commencement addresses that hopefully you will learn something from.
http://www.humanity.org/voices/commencements/
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Post #12 4/28/09 "Earth" is a Scary Place
Recently released to theaters on Earth Day was Disneynature's first documentary "Earth." Showcasing the one year journeys of several animal families, namely the African Elephants, Polar Bears, and Humpback Whales, "Earth" gives an in depth analysis of different types of events that these animals face every day while capturing the beauty and essence of nature. So long these details sound peachy keen, and if you have seen the trailerthe scenes are stunning and adorable. However, there are some unfortunate events in nature that take place but are necessary to be filmed. In making this particular type documentary the director must include all of the realities of nature even if it requires shooting a caribou calf being killed and eaten by a wolf or a baby elephant wandering farther and farther away from its mother until it is lost.
Although "Earth" seems to capture some of our planet's most intimate moments and appears as a family friendly film, it drops the ball with a proper rating. According to Jsse Ellison in "Newsweek" he witnessed a child frightened by the scene of a wolf preying on a calf. I myself have not yet watched the movie but for a scene of that nature even giving some of the adults in the theater goosebumps, this docementary should not have been rated G. Sure this documentary may only have a very few scenes like the one just described but one bad scene can easily terrify a child. Just imagine a second grade class going to watch this movie as a field trip. Since the movie is rated G none of the adults would assume that there would be any graphic images. Most likely, only two teachers and a few parents would chaperone, so when that one scary part arrives the majority of the children would not have anyone to comfort them when they are overcame by fear.
In the words of University of Illinois professor, Barbara J. Wilson, states, "As many parents have learned, younger children were more likely to focus on the Tviolent behavior which is concrete and easy to see." With that said, children will be vulnerable and open during this violent scene and will most likely turn away a few seconds later instead of turning away so that they will miss the scene. To be safe, this movie should at least be rated PG. This way a situation like that would never occur, and parents would have to accompany their child to this movie and thus able to be there for their child during frightening scenes and to explain to them the reality of what they just observed. Although the directors meant no harm, there is no such thing as being too safe.
Here is more information on Professor Wilson's article on "Wrong Ratings."
http://www.medialit.org/reading_room/article97.html
As for everything else, there seems to be no problem with the movie in general. It looks very interesting and must be spectacular.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Post #11 4/21/09 "Up" with the 3D?
Like the creative genius, Walt Disney, said himself, "We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we're curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths," I feel that 3D in movies is a useful technique for cinema's path of curiosity. With the recent release of "Monsters Vs. Aliens" and the upcoming and anticipated release of Disney and Pixar's new movie "Up" 3D has popped up into mainstream once again.
By enhancing the vision of the audience and offering an in depth view of the movie, 3D in movies is one step closer to connecting with the audience. However, some claim that 3D is one of the "Top 10 Movie Gimmicks." They feel that it is another way to boost ticket prices, and complain that all it does is give people headaches.
Aside from these 3D haters are those who claim 3D to be the next big thing. Namely Jeffrey Katzenberg, the CEO of Dreamworks, said that "3-D is the future, but digital cinemas have to be in place first. " Although it is a plus that no one will be able to pirate any movies.
In my opinion, I feel that 3d is not the future of cinema, but a useful device to draw audiences into the movie. I can say that 3D is not going to be equivalent to the innovation of color in films. Its effects increase some of the audience's appeal depending on the movie, but the revival of this century year old practice just takes away your attention from the animation. It draws you away from the improvements in movements and caricatures, and one of its prime uses is to make the movie seem realistic. In addition, 3D is only useful in certain movies. For one thing, the purpose of animation is to make things seem magical and outlandish. If I wanted to see something realistic I would watch a regular movie with live people acting.
However, if the improvements in 3D technology help tell the story instead of showing several scenes in which portray the 3D effect, then it serves no purpose. In the case of "Up" I have had the opportunity to watch the first 45 minutes of "Up" and can say that 3D would definitely enhance the story and draw the audience even closer. In a film like this that is filled with action and the beautiful surroundings of an unknown environment you can feel the depth and the majesty of the scene. It also provides the audience with the chance to look through the eyes of the main character in emotional scenes. In addition the director Pete Docter, director of "Monsters' Inc.", was there to elaborate on the use of 3D and how it truly captures the essence of a film like "Up." I do not want to spoil anything so far but the majority of the scenes would benefit from 3D since they deal with flight and the outdoors.
Anyway I am all for 3D. It has is some defaults, but when it is used properly it definitely adds to some flare to the story. I'll just have to watch animated movies twice so I can admire the animation without the 3D too.
On a side note, so far "Up" is probably one of Disney/Pixar's funniest movies yet and will not disappoint anyone, and is a must see. Just be ready to shed some tears in the beginning. Here are some videos.
Up Exclusive Featurette
By enhancing the vision of the audience and offering an in depth view of the movie, 3D in movies is one step closer to connecting with the audience. However, some claim that 3D is one of the "Top 10 Movie Gimmicks." They feel that it is another way to boost ticket prices, and complain that all it does is give people headaches.
Aside from these 3D haters are those who claim 3D to be the next big thing. Namely Jeffrey Katzenberg, the CEO of Dreamworks, said that "3-D is the future, but digital cinemas have to be in place first. " Although it is a plus that no one will be able to pirate any movies.
In my opinion, I feel that 3d is not the future of cinema, but a useful device to draw audiences into the movie. I can say that 3D is not going to be equivalent to the innovation of color in films. Its effects increase some of the audience's appeal depending on the movie, but the revival of this century year old practice just takes away your attention from the animation. It draws you away from the improvements in movements and caricatures, and one of its prime uses is to make the movie seem realistic. In addition, 3D is only useful in certain movies. For one thing, the purpose of animation is to make things seem magical and outlandish. If I wanted to see something realistic I would watch a regular movie with live people acting.
However, if the improvements in 3D technology help tell the story instead of showing several scenes in which portray the 3D effect, then it serves no purpose. In the case of "Up" I have had the opportunity to watch the first 45 minutes of "Up" and can say that 3D would definitely enhance the story and draw the audience even closer. In a film like this that is filled with action and the beautiful surroundings of an unknown environment you can feel the depth and the majesty of the scene. It also provides the audience with the chance to look through the eyes of the main character in emotional scenes. In addition the director Pete Docter, director of "Monsters' Inc.", was there to elaborate on the use of 3D and how it truly captures the essence of a film like "Up." I do not want to spoil anything so far but the majority of the scenes would benefit from 3D since they deal with flight and the outdoors.
Anyway I am all for 3D. It has is some defaults, but when it is used properly it definitely adds to some flare to the story. I'll just have to watch animated movies twice so I can admire the animation without the 3D too.
On a side note, so far "Up" is probably one of Disney/Pixar's funniest movies yet and will not disappoint anyone, and is a must see. Just be ready to shed some tears in the beginning. Here are some videos.
Up Exclusive Featurette
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Forum Post #5 4/7/09 Cultureless Assumptions
A common misconception that the Chinese who live in a metropolitan area make about the Sichuanese migrants is that they are uncultured. Yet again, like Peter said, this is the usual assumption that people make about anyone who works in a rural area. Although people formulate bitter assumptions Peter goes on saying how the Sichuanese could care less about what others think of them, and how they just focus on the work that needs to be done or the work they can find. This way they can focus on making enough money to make ends meet. It is interesting to think how ignorant the urban population can be in assuming how those working in rural China are uncultured, since China itself and the majority of other countries have been built up from a agriculturally and rural location into a thriving world power. Sichuan itself used to be the most populous province in China and was home to more than 120 million people until it was split into two. The urban society forgets their own roots and are actually the ones who are more cultureless than those in Sichuan. Accustomed to a new age, urban citizens are not familiar with traditional Chinese styles of living that the Sichuan migrants continue to live with. The Sichuanese area is is developing very slowly compared ot other areas, but being in a rural area it holds some of the cultural customs that helped build China into what it is today.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Post #10 3/31/09 Steatlh Health
With numerous of different fast food restaurants just around the corner, along with the variety of sugar filled snacks in the cabinet, junk food is seems to be everywhere. More appealing than a juicy apple or any other fruit or vegetable, stealth health is an academic field that studies how certain methods yield a child to make a healthy or unhealthy decision at the lunch line. Instead of banning junk food the field of stealth health focuses on ways of tricking a child to eat healthy without realizing it. By giving meals creative names, asking every child if they want fruit, or even providing easy access to healthier foods in the "grab and go" section, researchers claim that these methods provide plentiful opportunity for making the health foods more appealing.
In my opinion, tricking a child into eating healthier food is insufficient and fails to provide long term solutions for bad eating habits of children. When children leave the elementary school lunch lines and grow up, there is not going to be somebody at McDonald's asking if they want fresh medley apples with their Big Mac. The foundation of good eating habits should start at home where parents encourage there children why eating healthy is best and what the consequences are for not doing so. This way children learn how to be disciplined and begin to be accustomed to making healthier decisions.
Like WebMD says, http://children.webmd.com/guide/kids-healthy-eating-habits
"By teaching your children healthy eating habits, you can keep them at a healthy weight . Also, the eating habits your children pick up when they are young will help them maintain a healthy lifestyle when they are adults."
Sure telling kindergartners that carrots give you x-ray vision may get them to eat them. However, after a few days they will figure it out and will not buy that "this week's celery will make you fly.
Eating healthy is a decision we all have to make. Yes, schools should provide healthier foods instead of junk food for lunch but having to trick someone into eating healthy is only a short term solution. Before they know it previous bad eating habits will return, and cakes and pies will be desired once more.
In my opinion, tricking a child into eating healthier food is insufficient and fails to provide long term solutions for bad eating habits of children. When children leave the elementary school lunch lines and grow up, there is not going to be somebody at McDonald's asking if they want fresh medley apples with their Big Mac. The foundation of good eating habits should start at home where parents encourage there children why eating healthy is best and what the consequences are for not doing so. This way children learn how to be disciplined and begin to be accustomed to making healthier decisions.
Like WebMD says, http://children.webmd.com/guide/kids-healthy-eating-habits
"By teaching your children healthy eating habits, you can keep them at a healthy weight . Also, the eating habits your children pick up when they are young will help them maintain a healthy lifestyle when they are adults."
Sure telling kindergartners that carrots give you x-ray vision may get them to eat them. However, after a few days they will figure it out and will not buy that "this week's celery will make you fly.
Eating healthy is a decision we all have to make. Yes, schools should provide healthier foods instead of junk food for lunch but having to trick someone into eating healthy is only a short term solution. Before they know it previous bad eating habits will return, and cakes and pies will be desired once more.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Post #9 3/24/09 Rumors: Volume Jon Minus Kate Plus 8
As a fan of the TLC reality show Jon and Kate Plus 8 I am quite confused and dissapointed with the recent occurrences in the news. In relation to the Newsweek article about the Duggar family of 18 children and LeAnn Rimes' incident in which she was caught making out with her costar even though she and him are married, there are rumors of a big disruption in the relationship between John and Kate. Various sources such as In Touch Magazine claimed that Jon was living with his mom and spending time away from home going to bars and hanging out with college girls. Supposedly girls from Juniata College say that Jon said he may get a divorce. According to other witnesses hew was playing beer pong with a women's volleyball team and dancing. There is even a picture of him with two girls that the media claim as evidence.
However, a TLC representing Jon said,
“It is certainly hurtful for people to spread rumors and lies about us. It certainly makes me reluctant to live my life like the average person would. This has made it very clear that the simplest innocent gesture–such as taking a picture with a fan, can be taken out of context. As you can see on the show, I am not perfect, but I am a part of a loving family and couple.”
Also, Jon said that he did live with his mother for eight days because she had a broken foot and that the alleged picture was just with two fans.
Yet, the media continued to widen the gap by making assumptions that their romance is gone and that she is tough on him. They are so outlandish that they pinpoint little things like how close they are during interviews or how Jon's tone is. They even assumed that when Jon went on a father daughter ski trip with Cara ski, that he just wanted to get away from Kate.
Some of the paparazzis information seems true, but a part of me thinks that these rumors are completely redonkulous and that they are miscontruing the whole situation. Once again, as a fan I believe John and hope that the rumors are completely false.
Hopefully things won't turn out like this.
http://www.bittenandbound.com/2009/03/17/jon-kate-plus-8-finale-marital-problems-video/
The rumors about the Gosselins just goes to show how the media spreads many unpleasant rumors that are aimed for the downfall of stars. Whether rumors are true are not, dealing with these remarks is the difficult part. Whether rumors are about celebrities or just regular people, rumors are hard to cope with. "They make it hard to be at peace." Not only do they tear the person they are about, but they disrupt the mutal trust in the relationships they have with other people. The keys to dealing with rumors is to
Here's a link for an in depth analysis of rumor control.
http://www.beyondintractability.org/essay/rumor_control/
However, a TLC representing Jon said,
“It is certainly hurtful for people to spread rumors and lies about us. It certainly makes me reluctant to live my life like the average person would. This has made it very clear that the simplest innocent gesture–such as taking a picture with a fan, can be taken out of context. As you can see on the show, I am not perfect, but I am a part of a loving family and couple.”
Also, Jon said that he did live with his mother for eight days because she had a broken foot and that the alleged picture was just with two fans.
Yet, the media continued to widen the gap by making assumptions that their romance is gone and that she is tough on him. They are so outlandish that they pinpoint little things like how close they are during interviews or how Jon's tone is. They even assumed that when Jon went on a father daughter ski trip with Cara ski, that he just wanted to get away from Kate.
Some of the paparazzis information seems true, but a part of me thinks that these rumors are completely redonkulous and that they are miscontruing the whole situation. Once again, as a fan I believe John and hope that the rumors are completely false.
Hopefully things won't turn out like this.
http://www.bittenandbound.com/2009/03/17/jon-kate-plus-8-finale-marital-problems-video/
The rumors about the Gosselins just goes to show how the media spreads many unpleasant rumors that are aimed for the downfall of stars. Whether rumors are true are not, dealing with these remarks is the difficult part. Whether rumors are about celebrities or just regular people, rumors are hard to cope with. "They make it hard to be at peace." Not only do they tear the person they are about, but they disrupt the mutal trust in the relationships they have with other people. The keys to dealing with rumors is to
- First, some mechanism is needed for determining what rumors are actually circulating.
- Second, an effective strategy is needed for determining which rumors are true, and which are false.
- Finally, mechanisms are needed for correcting inaccurate rumors and replacing them with reliable information.
Here's a link for an in depth analysis of rumor control.
http://www.beyondintractability.org/essay/rumor_control/
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Post #8 3/17/09 Quiverfull
When it comes to watching television shows that portray how life is raising a huge amount of children, you just can not believe how a couple can have that many kids. Now I have never watched the show "18 Kids and Counting," but found their family story to be quite interesting. In this week's edition of Newsweek there was an article that discussed the religious conviction called Quiverfull. Claiming that the twenty member Duggar family follows this religious conviction, this family believes that any form of birth control is a form of abortion. They also believe that births should not be planned and that only god can control the amount of kids a couple has. Those who follow this are open to all "unqualified blessings."
This type of "extreme motherhood" seems to be overbearing and extreme. There is no doubt that the majority of couples are even considering about having a quarter of the amount of children the Duggar family has. When you think about costs having twenty kids is going to tough to handle, especially when you do not get any money for showcasing your life on television.
The link below provides answers for some questions on the issue of Quiverfull. They are answered by a Quiverfull follower who has many kids of his or her own. So, obviously the answers will be supportive to the subject.
http://lotsofkids.com/LOK-Features/quiver/quiverfull.htm
The parent does make decent arguments stating that "Therefore deliberately preventing the conception of a child is saying, in effect, that that child is unwanted and worthless." and that "Age wears your body out along with having babies."
Althoug I am not very religious, I feel that there needs to be a plan in births. Having and raising thirty kids is something I can not fathom and there is nothing that can change my mind about how crazy this conviction is. Especially when the woman said that "Guiness" has a woman with 69 children in Russia.
What do you guys think?
This type of "extreme motherhood" seems to be overbearing and extreme. There is no doubt that the majority of couples are even considering about having a quarter of the amount of children the Duggar family has. When you think about costs having twenty kids is going to tough to handle, especially when you do not get any money for showcasing your life on television.
The link below provides answers for some questions on the issue of Quiverfull. They are answered by a Quiverfull follower who has many kids of his or her own. So, obviously the answers will be supportive to the subject.
http://lotsofkids.com/LOK-Features/quiver/quiverfull.htm
The parent does make decent arguments stating that "Therefore deliberately preventing the conception of a child is saying, in effect, that that child is unwanted and worthless." and that "Age wears your body out along with having babies."
Althoug I am not very religious, I feel that there needs to be a plan in births. Having and raising thirty kids is something I can not fathom and there is nothing that can change my mind about how crazy this conviction is. Especially when the woman said that "Guiness" has a woman with 69 children in Russia.
What do you guys think?
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Post # 7 3/10/09 Dancing With the Athletes
Yesterday "Dancing With the Stars" returned to ABC's programming schedule for an eighth season. Out of the thirteen stars two of them were professional athletes NFL legend Lawrence Taylor and Olympic medalist Shawn Johnson. In this week's issue of "Newsweek" Jesse Ellison talked about how five NFL players have competed in this dance competition and how Lawrence is focusing on not embarrassing himself.
Well, some of you may have heard of how some athletes take dance lessons to improve their overall performance. Aside from being an art form dancing incorporates speed, strength, and grace. Many forms of dance are looked at as ways of making athletes better. Whether it is improving foot work through steps from the Tango, or toning your muscles with a variety of ballet moves, coaches and players have become open to dance as a form of practice drill. John Shepherd said "This has led researchers and sports team players and coaches to experiment with ballet and other dance forms as a conditioning method." In the article below Sheperd discusses the aspects of how dance improves athletic performance. Sheperd even researched about skiers in Sweden who evaluated several skiers who had dance training comparing their results to those of skiers who did not have any dance training. Their experiments resulted in the dancers having more mobility which decreased back pain. In another experiment to test balance results concluded that the risk of falling was majorly reduced.
http://www.pponline.co.uk/encyc/can-athletes-dance-their-way-to-agility
He recognizes how dancing improves speed and balance, thus making athletes more graceful as they move even faster. This is mainly due to how dancing deals with being light on your feet.
In this article below M. Lane talks about how ballet improves athletic performance saying, "Specifically, ballet will tone muscles and help the dancer develop better body awareness. Ballet improves strength, flexibility, coordination, dexterity and agility. Adding ballet to a workout will complement just about any sport." Supplementing athletes workouts, ballet uses a barre attached to the wall to warm up parts of your body which improve muscle symmetry.
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/319617/ballet_training_for_athletes.html?cat=14
With dance athletes can become more tone through different exercises and improve their balance and increase their speed, becoming swift and graceful in the game. Dancing makes normal movements look even better and prevent performance mishaps.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Post #6 3/3/09 Watchmen and Curing Negativity
In this past week's edition of Newsweek, one of the author's spoke about the disappointments in a variety of movie's that were adapted from novels and other pieces of literature. He began with Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace, claiming that George Lucas' dialogue was meager as well as the performance of Hayden Christianson as his "mannequin" like portrayal of Annikin Skywalker. His negativity then shifts to the next anticipated super hero movie called Watchmen. Based on the twelve-issues comic book series and novel written by Alan Moore, Watchmen set around the time the United States was entering the nuclear war against the Soviet Union when superheroes hung up the cape and retired. But when a superhero is murdered, the others are forced to come out of retirement to solve the murder mystery. In this story Moore focuses on the deconstruction of the superhero.
This author or critic pontificates how the director Zack Snyder has failed to turn this story into the film it should be. He said that it was confusing
As for my opinion, I think that this movie will be the opposite of what this critic thinks. Although I have not read the actual comics or novel, I did have the oppurtunity to go to Wondercon in San Francisco this past weekend, which is a huge urban and modern art convention where comics, movies and video games are promoted. That weekend, Watchmen was being well advertized. Free stuff was handed out the trailer was shown, and DC was there too. From what I've heard from standing in line waiting to get their free memorobilia, it sounded like this movie should be successful and entertaining. People were saying how Snyder was going to make this movie as big as 300. and the special effect should be top-notch.
I do not know why this guy was so negative. I mean others say this movie has potential, and can not be worse than decent. "I'd say Watchmen has more initial buzz than 300, partly due to the fan base and partly due to 23 years (versus nine years for 300) of existence," is what one critic said.
http://www.film.com/movies/watchmen/story/watchmens-opening-weekend-box-office/26326767
This guy did not even like Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace, sure there may be minor defects but one can't hate the movie altogether. His negativity is at too high a level, but that is part of his job. Thi brings me to how he needs to cure his negativity. He has to "Focus on creating solutions. Don’t focus on everything that is wrong and negative; focus instead on creating options for positive morale."http://humanresources.about.com/cs/conflictres/a/negativitycures_3.htm
This movie has not even come out yet, and this critic has just turned to all of the possible, negative outcomes. He needs to be the opposite and talk about some advantages and the pros it will have.
Overall, I think this movie will be cool and should be checked out,
and that critics should take it down a level to cure their negativity, and point out the plusses.
This author or critic pontificates how the director Zack Snyder has failed to turn this story into the film it should be. He said that it was confusing
As for my opinion, I think that this movie will be the opposite of what this critic thinks. Although I have not read the actual comics or novel, I did have the oppurtunity to go to Wondercon in San Francisco this past weekend, which is a huge urban and modern art convention where comics, movies and video games are promoted. That weekend, Watchmen was being well advertized. Free stuff was handed out the trailer was shown, and DC was there too. From what I've heard from standing in line waiting to get their free memorobilia, it sounded like this movie should be successful and entertaining. People were saying how Snyder was going to make this movie as big as 300. and the special effect should be top-notch.
I do not know why this guy was so negative. I mean others say this movie has potential, and can not be worse than decent. "I'd say Watchmen has more initial buzz than 300, partly due to the fan base and partly due to 23 years (versus nine years for 300) of existence," is what one critic said.
http://www.film.com/movies/watchmen/story/watchmens-opening-weekend-box-office/26326767
This guy did not even like Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace, sure there may be minor defects but one can't hate the movie altogether. His negativity is at too high a level, but that is part of his job. Thi brings me to how he needs to cure his negativity. He has to "Focus on creating solutions. Don’t focus on everything that is wrong and negative; focus instead on creating options for positive morale."http://humanresources.about.com/cs/conflictres/a/negativitycures_3.htm
This movie has not even come out yet, and this critic has just turned to all of the possible, negative outcomes. He needs to be the opposite and talk about some advantages and the pros it will have.
Overall, I think this movie will be cool and should be checked out,
and that critics should take it down a level to cure their negativity, and point out the plusses.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Post #5 2/24/09 All You Have to do is Ask
Thinking back to the time this past week when our essay was pushed back just because someone asked, I was reminded of a chapter that I read in a book written by Randy Pausch called "The Last Lecture." In one his chapters he discussed one of his experiences that he shared with his dad when they both went to Disney World. While they were riding the monorail into the park Randy's dad wanted to sit up in the front. Randy told his dad that by being an Imagineer he learned a simple trick to make that request possible. He took his dad and his son up to the attendant and simply asked if the three of them could sit in the front car. The attendant then replied with a yes.
During the rest of the chapter he talks about the importance asking and how they can enable your dreams to come true. In another example he talked about how he asked if he could drive down to meet with one of the most highly regarded computer scientists in the world for just thirty minutes. Then said how his question led him to a ninety minute talk and a new life long friend. He also said that trip led him to meet his wife.
By asking questions we have the opportunity to bring thoughts into reality. There are simply just to responses that you can get. The worse someone can say is no.
Like the late Randy Pausch said, "Ask those questions. Just ask them. More often than you'd suspect, the answer you'll get is, "Sure." If you have not read the book or watched his lecture, you should definitely put that on your "to do list." His lecture is very inspiring and offers a positive perspective on how we should live our life and follow our childhood dreams.
The book and his speech are truly inspiring. As an admirer I'd just like to say rest in peace.
Here's a link to this particular lesson and many others we should follow.
http://www.parade.com/articles/editions/2008/edition_04-06-2008/1My_Last_Lecture
Here's a link to see his Last Lecture at Carnegie Mellon.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ji5_MqicxSo&feature=PlayList&p=BCD362F95A724D1E&index=0&playnext=1
During the rest of the chapter he talks about the importance asking and how they can enable your dreams to come true. In another example he talked about how he asked if he could drive down to meet with one of the most highly regarded computer scientists in the world for just thirty minutes. Then said how his question led him to a ninety minute talk and a new life long friend. He also said that trip led him to meet his wife.
By asking questions we have the opportunity to bring thoughts into reality. There are simply just to responses that you can get. The worse someone can say is no.
Like the late Randy Pausch said, "Ask those questions. Just ask them. More often than you'd suspect, the answer you'll get is, "Sure." If you have not read the book or watched his lecture, you should definitely put that on your "to do list." His lecture is very inspiring and offers a positive perspective on how we should live our life and follow our childhood dreams.
The book and his speech are truly inspiring. As an admirer I'd just like to say rest in peace.
Here's a link to this particular lesson and many others we should follow.
http://www.parade.com/articles/editions/2008/edition_04-06-2008/1My_Last_Lecture
Here's a link to see his Last Lecture at Carnegie Mellon.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ji5_MqicxSo&feature=PlayList&p=BCD362F95A724D1E&index=0&playnext=1
Monday, February 16, 2009
Post #4 2/16/09 The Oscars
After reading last week's edition of Newsweek about the Benjamin Button article
and the Dakota Fanning interview, I was filled with excitement that the Academy Awards are approaching. As many people may know, the Academy Awards, also known as the Oscars, is an annual event that takes place once a year to recognize the finest and most creative achievements made in the motion picture industry. Whether it is to recognize the year's Best Picture or the year's best Visual Effects, the Academy offers a plethora of awards. The Oscar is the most prestigious awards one can receive in film. For everyone in the film industry, receiving this award would be the highest honor one could receive.
Receiving one makes you wanna
Watching them as a fan is another story. As a member of the audience we watch films for entertainment. We watch films for many reasons depending on genre and mood we are in. "The movies are our hopes and our dreams." We fantasize about being in a magical environment or having a happily ever after. Not only that but it gives us the opportunity to sit back and enjoy and congratulate what these entertainers have done. It inspires us to reach for the sky and to dream big.
Below is a link to an article about why the Oscars are enjoyable for us.
http://www.helium.com/items/884587-why-we-love-to-watch-the-academy-awards
Oh yeah, it may be mean but it is funny to see the expressions of the other people that did not win. You know they want to just get the heck out of there.
The first Academy Awards was on May 16, 1929 as a private dinner. The Oscar itself is made of gold-plated brittanium with a knight holding a crusader sword standing on a reel of film with five spokes that each represent the original branches of the Academy: Actors, Writers, Directors, Producers, and Technicians. The origin for the name "Oscar" for the award is still unclear.
This year I have only watched a few films that have been nominate namely Slumdog Millionaire, Wall-E, The Dark Knight, Iron Man, and Bolt. I have a strong feeling that Wall-E is going to win Best Animated Feature Film. However, I'm hoping that Slumdog Millionaire will win Best Picture. It is a phenomenal movie and is a must see. Plus Freida Pinto is in it. I thought Wall-E was snubbed for a Best Picture nomination.
Here's a link for the list of nominees
http://www.oscar.com/nominees/?pn=nominees
Who do you guys want to win?
Who do you think should have been nominated?
and the Dakota Fanning interview, I was filled with excitement that the Academy Awards are approaching. As many people may know, the Academy Awards, also known as the Oscars, is an annual event that takes place once a year to recognize the finest and most creative achievements made in the motion picture industry. Whether it is to recognize the year's Best Picture or the year's best Visual Effects, the Academy offers a plethora of awards. The Oscar is the most prestigious awards one can receive in film. For everyone in the film industry, receiving this award would be the highest honor one could receive.
Receiving one makes you wanna
Watching them as a fan is another story. As a member of the audience we watch films for entertainment. We watch films for many reasons depending on genre and mood we are in. "The movies are our hopes and our dreams." We fantasize about being in a magical environment or having a happily ever after. Not only that but it gives us the opportunity to sit back and enjoy and congratulate what these entertainers have done. It inspires us to reach for the sky and to dream big.
Below is a link to an article about why the Oscars are enjoyable for us.
http://www.helium.com/items/884587-why-we-love-to-watch-the-academy-awards
Oh yeah, it may be mean but it is funny to see the expressions of the other people that did not win. You know they want to just get the heck out of there.
The first Academy Awards was on May 16, 1929 as a private dinner. The Oscar itself is made of gold-plated brittanium with a knight holding a crusader sword standing on a reel of film with five spokes that each represent the original branches of the Academy: Actors, Writers, Directors, Producers, and Technicians. The origin for the name "Oscar" for the award is still unclear.
This year I have only watched a few films that have been nominate namely Slumdog Millionaire, Wall-E, The Dark Knight, Iron Man, and Bolt. I have a strong feeling that Wall-E is going to win Best Animated Feature Film. However, I'm hoping that Slumdog Millionaire will win Best Picture. It is a phenomenal movie and is a must see. Plus Freida Pinto is in it. I thought Wall-E was snubbed for a Best Picture nomination.
Here's a link for the list of nominees
http://www.oscar.com/nominees/?pn=nominees
Who do you guys want to win?
Who do you think should have been nominated?
Monday, February 9, 2009
Post #3 2/9/09 Trekies Assemble
Welcome Trekies. In general I am not really an avid Star Trek follower, I watch episodes rarely and was accustomed to seeing Captain Kirk. After watching Star Trek the New Generation, it was interesting to see the new characters especially the reading rainbow dude playing LaForge. The similarities between the "Drumhead" episode along with "The Crucible" were somewhat difficult to interpret. However, as the events began to unravel it became clear. The discreptincy about a sabateur brought so much fear that people began to question the fleet like the people of Salem did about the witch crisis. Just as it is stated in Captain Picard's quote, "Have we become so fearful, have we become so cowardly that we must extinguish a man because he carries the blood of a current enemy?"
Here's the link to other quotes from that episode
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0708793/quotes
During the trial when Admiral sprouted with a burst of anger I almost freaked out. SOme people were so surprised that they left the room, like that security guy, before they could not control their emotions.
The Admiral seemed to be reminiscent to Danforth, the way he sees everything in black and white, and thinking that every suspicion is a guilty fault. Shes just one of those characters that make you go
did she really say that, or did she really just do that.
Let me hear your thoughts. Express yourselves.
Here's the link to other quotes from that episode
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0708793/quotes
During the trial when Admiral sprouted with a burst of anger I almost freaked out. SOme people were so surprised that they left the room, like that security guy, before they could not control their emotions.
The Admiral seemed to be reminiscent to Danforth, the way he sees everything in black and white, and thinking that every suspicion is a guilty fault. Shes just one of those characters that make you go
did she really say that, or did she really just do that.
Let me hear your thoughts. Express yourselves.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Post #2 2/2/09 It's Finally Over
Yes! I'm going to flat out say that I am glad that the "Crucible" is finally over. The story was interesting, but some of the characters were straight annoying. I just could not stand Danforth, and even though Parris had a change of opinion towards the end, he was irritating during the whole trial. When Danforth said, "There will be no postponement," I was like
Whenever Parris interupted, saying "He means to overthrow the court."
I just wished Proctor would do this to him even though he was a reverend.
It just angered me how he saw things black and white.
In addition, it was just amazing to see those twisted girls manipulate the whole town.
Here the link to the quotes
http://www.bookrags.com/notes/cru/TOP1.html
Overall, the book in my opinion was just okay. I guess I just did not like the subject of the story.
What are your thoughts? Were there any characters that you could not stand.
Monday, January 26, 2009
Post #1 1/27/09 Time to get Down to Business
In President Obama's Inaugural Address, one of his most striking quotes was, "Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin again the work of remaking America." I think that it is up to us to get up and help bring change to reality instead of being apathetic.
That means a little less of this
Aside from that, his accomplishment in this election is the epitome of how America truly is the land of opportunity.
What do you guys think about this quote?
Here's the link to President Obama's entire Inaugural Address.
http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/01/20/obama.politics/index.html
That means a little less of this
Aside from that, his accomplishment in this election is the epitome of how America truly is the land of opportunity.
What do you guys think about this quote?
Here's the link to President Obama's entire Inaugural Address.
http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/01/20/obama.politics/index.html
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