So during finals week I was very partial to chocolate. My roommate and I decided to go to Walgreens and buy some.
As I looked through the aisles of dots, kit-kats, and starbursts I rested on these Dove chocolates. On the shelf I had a choice. I could get the ones that are in the regular packaging or I could purchase the one's that say promises of hope that are packaged in support of breast cancer awareness.
I chose the ones that were in support of breast cancer awareness. Why did I do that? Why do I think it's better to eat those chocolates? I believed I would be a better person for purchasing that bag verses the regular packaging. I believed that I would be doing some sort of altruistic gesture by giving proceeds to breast cancer awareness.
How much does marketing play a role in what we believe?
I also watch the Freecreditreport.com commercials quite frequently on Fox News. I used to see them multiple times a day when I did my internship. I started to fear on a daily basis that someone would steal my identity. Could I really stop it by purchasing this product?
I feel that the best way to deal with commercial persuasion is to really think it out in your mind. Say I don't buy those chocolates...how much money is actually lost? Could I be helping more by directly donating to the foundation rather than buying the candy?
Onto the commerical, are there ways of stopping identity theft without using this website? What are some other ways of finding my credit report? How much does it actually cost per month? What if my identity is never stolen, wouldn't it cost more in the long run to have this monthly payment to freecreditreport.com?
So I did buy the chocolates, and at one point I also purchased freecreditreport.com. However, I got rid of my credit report subscription and realized that proper thinking can really prevent over priced commercial purchases.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Thursday, December 25, 2008
I Will Never Shop At Walmart Again
I recently watched an eye opening documentary about true dirty socialism...Walmart.
If you're looking for a company to take over and run down small communities...SAY HELLO TO WALMART
If you enjoy employees in China living in dirty confined spaces so that they can work for less than $3.00 an hour...LOOK TO WALMART
If you also enjoy other helpless people in India working 14 hour days for less than 20 cents an hour...SHOP AT WALMART
If you like a corporation to descrimination against women...CHECK OUT WALMART
If you want your Black neighbor down the street to be called racial slurs on his lunch hour...GO TO WALMART
If you want to see your family owned business default on the mortgage...FIND A WALMART
If you want your taxpayer dollars to go to subsidies for cheap Walmart property...SEEK A WALMART
If you would like to see a multi-billion dollar company ignore charity and the environment...DRIVE TO WALMART
If you don't believe what I'm saying then please visit the links below. If you're also passionate about these corporations taking over human decency then you will add a comment to this note declaring that YOU TOO WON'T SHOP AT WALMART. Also feel free to copy and paste this not in forwards, emails, links, your own note, blogs, etc...
Here is the link to the website of the documentary I viewed. You can order it via Netflix or watch it instantly with Netflix.
http://www.walmartmovie.com/
----------------
Walmarts Labor Record [As Documented by the Congressman George Miller and the Democratic Staff of the Committee on Education and the Workforce
U.S. House of Representatives]
http://www.mindfully.org/Industry/2004/Wal-Mart-Labor-Record16feb04.htm
---------------
Walmart Employees Speak Out Video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GWkWn9O75jk
----------------
Funny Promo for the Documentary
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4JEEuU0luvM
---------------
"It's Not Easy Being Green: The Truth About Walmart's Environmental Makeover"
http://walmartwatch.com/img/blog/enviro_white_paper.pdf
--------------
Article Below from the Pasadena-Star News
"Wal-Mart settles wage claims
NEW YORK - Wal-Mart said on Tuesday it would pay at least $352 million to settle claims from across the country that it forced employees to work off the clock.
The company reportedly agreed to settle 63 cases pending in federal and state courts in 42 states. The workers and their lawyers will receive at least $352 million, and the payments could reach $640 million, depending on how many claims affected workers submit.
Each of the settlements is subject to approval by the trial court, and the total amount to be paid will depend on the amount of claims that are
submitted by class members.
Also, as part of the settlements, Wal-Mart has agreed to continue to use various electronic systems and other measures designed to maintain compliance with its wage and hour policies and applicable law."
-From Staff and Wire Reports
If you're looking for a company to take over and run down small communities...SAY HELLO TO WALMART
If you enjoy employees in China living in dirty confined spaces so that they can work for less than $3.00 an hour...LOOK TO WALMART
If you also enjoy other helpless people in India working 14 hour days for less than 20 cents an hour...SHOP AT WALMART
If you like a corporation to descrimination against women...CHECK OUT WALMART
If you want your Black neighbor down the street to be called racial slurs on his lunch hour...GO TO WALMART
If you want to see your family owned business default on the mortgage...FIND A WALMART
If you want your taxpayer dollars to go to subsidies for cheap Walmart property...SEEK A WALMART
If you would like to see a multi-billion dollar company ignore charity and the environment...DRIVE TO WALMART
If you don't believe what I'm saying then please visit the links below. If you're also passionate about these corporations taking over human decency then you will add a comment to this note declaring that YOU TOO WON'T SHOP AT WALMART. Also feel free to copy and paste this not in forwards, emails, links, your own note, blogs, etc...
Here is the link to the website of the documentary I viewed. You can order it via Netflix or watch it instantly with Netflix.
http://www.walmartmovie.com/
----------------
Walmarts Labor Record [As Documented by the Congressman George Miller and the Democratic Staff of the Committee on Education and the Workforce
U.S. House of Representatives]
http://www.mindfully.org/Industry/2004/Wal-Mart-Labor-Record16feb04.htm
---------------
Walmart Employees Speak Out Video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GWkWn9O75jk
----------------
Funny Promo for the Documentary
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4JEEuU0luvM
---------------
"It's Not Easy Being Green: The Truth About Walmart's Environmental Makeover"
http://walmartwatch.com/img/blog/enviro_white_paper.pdf
--------------
Article Below from the Pasadena-Star News
"Wal-Mart settles wage claims
NEW YORK - Wal-Mart said on Tuesday it would pay at least $352 million to settle claims from across the country that it forced employees to work off the clock.
The company reportedly agreed to settle 63 cases pending in federal and state courts in 42 states. The workers and their lawyers will receive at least $352 million, and the payments could reach $640 million, depending on how many claims affected workers submit.
Each of the settlements is subject to approval by the trial court, and the total amount to be paid will depend on the amount of claims that are
submitted by class members.
Also, as part of the settlements, Wal-Mart has agreed to continue to use various electronic systems and other measures designed to maintain compliance with its wage and hour policies and applicable law."
-From Staff and Wire Reports
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Stem Cell Research
Today we discussed stem cell research in my persuasion class. My professor said I made some good arguments and was very articulate in my speech.
I won't get into huge detail on the subject because I don't have time, however, I do want to say this...
I don't feel that it's right to discard unused embryonic stem cells while good human beings are dying because they need organ transplants. Those stem cells could save their lives but instead they aren't used.
Stem cells thrown away and needy people die. Stem cells get saved and used to create organs and people live. What is ethical?
I think killing a human being whose in need over saving/discarding an embryo is unethical.
We're also told to "multiply and replenish the earth". If we are to do that then wouldn't it make sense to "replenish" the lives of dying individuals in our country.
I don't think it's right to abort a child into the first term of pregnancy but I don't believe in the embryonic view of life. I suppose it is important to delineate that understanding but it's also important to help those in need.
Perhaps God not only gave us the ability to procreate but to also maintain existing life.
There are many things you could say on this issue. You could bring in legal ramifications and various scenarios but the issue is out there and I think it's important to have an opinion now before it becomes apparent in the media again.
I won't get into huge detail on the subject because I don't have time, however, I do want to say this...
I don't feel that it's right to discard unused embryonic stem cells while good human beings are dying because they need organ transplants. Those stem cells could save their lives but instead they aren't used.
Stem cells thrown away and needy people die. Stem cells get saved and used to create organs and people live. What is ethical?
I think killing a human being whose in need over saving/discarding an embryo is unethical.
We're also told to "multiply and replenish the earth". If we are to do that then wouldn't it make sense to "replenish" the lives of dying individuals in our country.
I don't think it's right to abort a child into the first term of pregnancy but I don't believe in the embryonic view of life. I suppose it is important to delineate that understanding but it's also important to help those in need.
Perhaps God not only gave us the ability to procreate but to also maintain existing life.
There are many things you could say on this issue. You could bring in legal ramifications and various scenarios but the issue is out there and I think it's important to have an opinion now before it becomes apparent in the media again.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Honestly Honorable
So something has been weighing on my professional conscience for a while. It is the problem of being a good LDS example in the media and entertainment industry.
Recently, in my directing class some students were in a somewhat inappropriate sketch. They were given a script that included the phrase SOB but it wasn't an acronym. There were other things within the scene that could be deemed awkward and immoral.
Prior to the students doing this scene, our professor said we shouldn't be afraid to have adult concepts within our scenes. He said that because I cut out the subject of "good sex" from a scene I directed.
Now don't get me wrong. I'm liberal on many things. I'm not "molly mormon" or staunch...but I am a member of the LDS church and I do have standards.
After the SOB sketch, the professor said that the phrase was unneeded. I was pleased. But he only said it after one student had the courage to speak up.
This whole situation made me think about how important it is not to give up your beliefs, morals, and standards because you're in the limelight and/or need a quick buck.
Some may say...oh it's not too bad. People do worse on other networks. But if we keep letting our guard down little by little then eventually no good LDS members will be part of the entertainment business.
The best thing a latter day saint could do is be a good example in the media. Don't do a scene if it has vulgar adult subject matter. Instead, write your own. Don't take that casting callback if there is a sex scene that you feel isn't worth losing your feeling of worthiness.
Furthermore, someone in one of my classes made an amazingly good comment about mormons making movies and the TV industry.
NO ONE WILL CARE ABOUT US UNTIL WE START MAKING QUALITY PRODUCTS.
Stop making "Mormon Films" and start making real films. Start producing good wholesome art that people outside of the church would understand. Start writing music that isn't just gospel oriented but is written well and could fall into the mainstream fix without sounding like verbal diarrhea.
So let's take a moral stand as actors, writers, artists, directors, musicians, etc...
1. Stop promoting and performing in it.
2. Start creating moral, quality, art.
Recently, in my directing class some students were in a somewhat inappropriate sketch. They were given a script that included the phrase SOB but it wasn't an acronym. There were other things within the scene that could be deemed awkward and immoral.
Prior to the students doing this scene, our professor said we shouldn't be afraid to have adult concepts within our scenes. He said that because I cut out the subject of "good sex" from a scene I directed.
Now don't get me wrong. I'm liberal on many things. I'm not "molly mormon" or staunch...but I am a member of the LDS church and I do have standards.
After the SOB sketch, the professor said that the phrase was unneeded. I was pleased. But he only said it after one student had the courage to speak up.
This whole situation made me think about how important it is not to give up your beliefs, morals, and standards because you're in the limelight and/or need a quick buck.
Some may say...oh it's not too bad. People do worse on other networks. But if we keep letting our guard down little by little then eventually no good LDS members will be part of the entertainment business.
The best thing a latter day saint could do is be a good example in the media. Don't do a scene if it has vulgar adult subject matter. Instead, write your own. Don't take that casting callback if there is a sex scene that you feel isn't worth losing your feeling of worthiness.
Furthermore, someone in one of my classes made an amazingly good comment about mormons making movies and the TV industry.
NO ONE WILL CARE ABOUT US UNTIL WE START MAKING QUALITY PRODUCTS.
Stop making "Mormon Films" and start making real films. Start producing good wholesome art that people outside of the church would understand. Start writing music that isn't just gospel oriented but is written well and could fall into the mainstream fix without sounding like verbal diarrhea.
So let's take a moral stand as actors, writers, artists, directors, musicians, etc...
1. Stop promoting and performing in it.
2. Start creating moral, quality, art.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Monday, October 20, 2008
Lately
Some things currently going on in my life...
1. I got an %81 on a math test. That is amazing for me. The last time I tried to take math 110 I got a %40 on the first test and dropped the class.
2. I have officially decided I want to move back to NYC. Even if I have to work some crap job. I love it so much and since I don't much enjoy driving NYC is a wonderful place for me.
3. I directed my first scene in directing class. It was from the movie When Harry Met Sally. It went all right.
4. the Talent Performance Board just had their Best Of Guitars Unplugged show. It went really well. The danced sucked though.
5. One of my roommates moved out. Everyone who finds out in our ward seems to look at us as if it's our fault that she left. I don't enjoy when people assume I've done something. I was kind to her and befriended her. She left on her own terms.
6. I am the ward activities chair. It's a bit overwhelming but my committee is pretty good.
7. I'm not dating anyone, married, pregnant. I don't look forward to the mission/marriage/dating questions when I get home.
8. I graduate on December 12th! Or 13th! ha not sure which.
That's all for now.
1. I got an %81 on a math test. That is amazing for me. The last time I tried to take math 110 I got a %40 on the first test and dropped the class.
2. I have officially decided I want to move back to NYC. Even if I have to work some crap job. I love it so much and since I don't much enjoy driving NYC is a wonderful place for me.
3. I directed my first scene in directing class. It was from the movie When Harry Met Sally. It went all right.
4. the Talent Performance Board just had their Best Of Guitars Unplugged show. It went really well. The danced sucked though.
5. One of my roommates moved out. Everyone who finds out in our ward seems to look at us as if it's our fault that she left. I don't enjoy when people assume I've done something. I was kind to her and befriended her. She left on her own terms.
6. I am the ward activities chair. It's a bit overwhelming but my committee is pretty good.
7. I'm not dating anyone, married, pregnant. I don't look forward to the mission/marriage/dating questions when I get home.
8. I graduate on December 12th! Or 13th! ha not sure which.
That's all for now.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
I Grind My Teeth
So if you don't know me well then you might not know that I grind my teeth when I'm stressed. I guess this morning my roomie woke me up because I was grinding my teeth again. I put my mouth guard in and went back to sleep.
So far this semester has been yes/no stressful. Some days I want to crawl into a ball, eat chocolate, and forget about the world. Other days I'm fine. I used to handle stress pretty well but now it's as if I just am so sick of going to school that EVERYTHING seems like stress.
Some other new developments in my life...
One of my roommates decided to move out mid semester. Not quite sure what that's all about.
The Talent Performance Board is going pretty well. More people are coming to shows and auditioning.
I just turned 23 on the 1st. It's weird to think where I am at this point in my life and how immature I was just a few years ago. Also, how immature I've become as I get older.
Now comes the fatal question: what are you going to do after you graduate?
As I've said before...I have no idea. I really really want to move back to NYC. I love it there. I think most people who live there for a short time fall in love with it. You find out things about yourself there. You learn things you like and dislike because you have everything you ever wanted right in one place. Whether you're a music person, an art person, a TV person, a financial person, or just a person...you can get SOMETHING out of that pollution filled, over-populated, joy fest!
Okay maybe it's weird that I call it a joy fest...but I do love and and I do miss it. And I also feel bad for mocking one of my good friends because she talked about NY too much. Now that's me and I understand why she felt the way she did.
Okay...I'm done rambling. But seriously if you have any ideas of what I should do with my life I would appriciate it.
Thanks!
So far this semester has been yes/no stressful. Some days I want to crawl into a ball, eat chocolate, and forget about the world. Other days I'm fine. I used to handle stress pretty well but now it's as if I just am so sick of going to school that EVERYTHING seems like stress.
Some other new developments in my life...
One of my roommates decided to move out mid semester. Not quite sure what that's all about.
The Talent Performance Board is going pretty well. More people are coming to shows and auditioning.
I just turned 23 on the 1st. It's weird to think where I am at this point in my life and how immature I was just a few years ago. Also, how immature I've become as I get older.
Now comes the fatal question: what are you going to do after you graduate?
As I've said before...I have no idea. I really really want to move back to NYC. I love it there. I think most people who live there for a short time fall in love with it. You find out things about yourself there. You learn things you like and dislike because you have everything you ever wanted right in one place. Whether you're a music person, an art person, a TV person, a financial person, or just a person...you can get SOMETHING out of that pollution filled, over-populated, joy fest!
Okay maybe it's weird that I call it a joy fest...but I do love and and I do miss it. And I also feel bad for mocking one of my good friends because she talked about NY too much. Now that's me and I understand why she felt the way she did.
Okay...I'm done rambling. But seriously if you have any ideas of what I should do with my life I would appriciate it.
Thanks!
Saturday, September 27, 2008
My Color
According to this Color Personality Test I took I am considered...DEFINITELY BLUE. Below is what it said I am like. You can decide whether this is false or factual ;-)
Congratulations, Christal, you are a BLUE personality. The Core Motivation that drives you through life is "Intimacy". It is important to note that this does not mean sexual intimacy. BLUES need connection - the sharing of rich, deep emotions that bind people together. As a BLUE, you will often sacrifice a great deal of time, effort, and/or personal convenience to develop and maintain meaningful relationships throughout your life.
BLUES seek opportunities to genuinely connect with others, and need to be understood and appreciated, especially by their partner. Everything you do as a BLUE has to be quality-based, or you won't do it at all. You are incredibly loyal to friends, employers, employees, and above all to your significant other. Whatever or whomever you commit to is your sole (and soul) focus. As a BLUE, you love to serve and will give freely of yourself in order to nurture the lives of others.
BLUES have distinct preferences and are the most controlling of the four personalities, although they may not acknowledge (or even realize) the fact. Your code of ethics is remarkably strong and you expect others (not only your partner and those closest to you, but everyone) to live honest, committed lives as well. You enjoy sharing meaningful moments in conversation with your partner as well as remembering special life events (e.g. birthdays and anniversaries).
Congratulations, Christal, you are a BLUE personality. The Core Motivation that drives you through life is "Intimacy". It is important to note that this does not mean sexual intimacy. BLUES need connection - the sharing of rich, deep emotions that bind people together. As a BLUE, you will often sacrifice a great deal of time, effort, and/or personal convenience to develop and maintain meaningful relationships throughout your life.
BLUES seek opportunities to genuinely connect with others, and need to be understood and appreciated, especially by their partner. Everything you do as a BLUE has to be quality-based, or you won't do it at all. You are incredibly loyal to friends, employers, employees, and above all to your significant other. Whatever or whomever you commit to is your sole (and soul) focus. As a BLUE, you love to serve and will give freely of yourself in order to nurture the lives of others.
BLUES have distinct preferences and are the most controlling of the four personalities, although they may not acknowledge (or even realize) the fact. Your code of ethics is remarkably strong and you expect others (not only your partner and those closest to you, but everyone) to live honest, committed lives as well. You enjoy sharing meaningful moments in conversation with your partner as well as remembering special life events (e.g. birthdays and anniversaries).
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Who Should Talk?
So one day after class (the day I said I was a democrat in class) I was waiting for Sis. Hansen to talk to her and he came up to me and said “have you seen that story on abortion?” and I said “What?” and he said “ya know the one where they leave the babies in the room to die”
I said “where did you see this story”
Him “I got it in an email”
Me “an email?”
Him “well it was a link”
Me “So you got an email with a link to this story?” “coming from a journalistic standpoint I think you should probably research other news sources. Not just CNN and Fox news but various places”
Him “yea, that is good”
Me “because honestly from experience…anyone can start a story. Even a network story can be pitched by a regular person like me”
Him “well don’t you…” (then he went on but I didn’t continue listening. He tried continue talking on the subject)
Me “I’m a democrat but I’m against abortion” and I said that in a bit of a staunch manner so he would leave me alone.
I said “where did you see this story”
Him “I got it in an email”
Me “an email?”
Him “well it was a link”
Me “So you got an email with a link to this story?” “coming from a journalistic standpoint I think you should probably research other news sources. Not just CNN and Fox news but various places”
Him “yea, that is good”
Me “because honestly from experience…anyone can start a story. Even a network story can be pitched by a regular person like me”
Him “well don’t you…” (then he went on but I didn’t continue listening. He tried continue talking on the subject)
Me “I’m a democrat but I’m against abortion” and I said that in a bit of a staunch manner so he would leave me alone.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Teachers Pest
I have this math class. Unfortunately I wasn't intelligent enough to finish taking the course during the beginning of my college career. Thus I am stuck.
I am stuck with a women who doesn't understand my communication skills and seems to think I have a personal vendetta against her. The true fact seems to be that she has a personal vendetta against me.
I class she asked us all to hand in Vocabulary terms. No one knew we were handing them in or that they were due. I then rose my hand and said that "did you tell us last class that we were handing this in or did you tell us on I-Learn?" She looked very confused and offended.
My intention: to find out if she had actually told us so I could make sure I didn't miss something important next time.
Her reaction: she pulled me aside and said to me "can you please not question me in front of the whole class?" I looked at her very confused. She said "when you do that you make everyone else question me"
My reaction: "I wasn't targeting you, I was asking a question"....unfortunately, she didn't care.
I left that day angry, sad, and confused. Does she have some personal vendetta against me? Is she prideful? Am I prideful? I went through many cycles on who's wrong/who's right. Eventually I've decided to try and forget it.
I am stuck with a women who doesn't understand my communication skills and seems to think I have a personal vendetta against her. The true fact seems to be that she has a personal vendetta against me.
I class she asked us all to hand in Vocabulary terms. No one knew we were handing them in or that they were due. I then rose my hand and said that "did you tell us last class that we were handing this in or did you tell us on I-Learn?" She looked very confused and offended.
My intention: to find out if she had actually told us so I could make sure I didn't miss something important next time.
Her reaction: she pulled me aside and said to me "can you please not question me in front of the whole class?" I looked at her very confused. She said "when you do that you make everyone else question me"
My reaction: "I wasn't targeting you, I was asking a question"....unfortunately, she didn't care.
I left that day angry, sad, and confused. Does she have some personal vendetta against me? Is she prideful? Am I prideful? I went through many cycles on who's wrong/who's right. Eventually I've decided to try and forget it.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
LIFE & AH!
So I haven't updated this blog in a uber long time. Here are some recent updates...
I like to say the word "UBER" and I've been saying it a lot lately. I also have a recent addiction to beef jerky and diet Dr. Pepper. I've been going to all my classes and trying to work super hard so I can graduate. I pray that the University doesn't pull a fast one on me and gives me the degree I deserve.
*eats more jerky and takes a swig of da peppa*
Some other things in my life involve a fun trip to yellow stone with some super cool peeps. Check the photo below
Some other things to think about in my life is my serious lack of paying my bills on time. I seem to remember them in the morning but in the night I just forget.
As you can probably tell I am totally rambling...It must be all the caffeine....
Another thing I'd like to discuss are people who literally fantasize about hearing themselves talk. There is one such man in my Persuasion class. My friend and I call him Moses. We call him Moses because not only does he like to hear himself talk but he also enjoys religious discussion and an idealistic holier than thou attitude.
Oh the one thing I can count on is that my persuasive nature is far more advanced than his. Ha!
Peace out home skillets!
View video below for a good hearty American laugh
Old Faithful while we were there!
I like to say the word "UBER" and I've been saying it a lot lately. I also have a recent addiction to beef jerky and diet Dr. Pepper. I've been going to all my classes and trying to work super hard so I can graduate. I pray that the University doesn't pull a fast one on me and gives me the degree I deserve.
*eats more jerky and takes a swig of da peppa*
Some other things in my life involve a fun trip to yellow stone with some super cool peeps. Check the photo below
Some other things to think about in my life is my serious lack of paying my bills on time. I seem to remember them in the morning but in the night I just forget.
As you can probably tell I am totally rambling...It must be all the caffeine....
Another thing I'd like to discuss are people who literally fantasize about hearing themselves talk. There is one such man in my Persuasion class. My friend and I call him Moses. We call him Moses because not only does he like to hear himself talk but he also enjoys religious discussion and an idealistic holier than thou attitude.
Oh the one thing I can count on is that my persuasive nature is far more advanced than his. Ha!
Peace out home skillets!
View video below for a good hearty American laugh
Old Faithful while we were there!
Monday, September 1, 2008
Gustav
I don't think it will be as bad as Katrina but it still baffles me how some people don't learn their lesson. Here is a very sad story below that I wanted to share.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
The Democratic National Convention
Well my journey is finally over for the summer. Now it's time to get ready for school. But before I do I have to write about my meanderings at the convention.
Honestly it was some of the easiest and hardest work I've ever done. Hard because I was exhausted. I pulled 10-11 hour days and most of it involved the following...
Aug. 21st
12:00pm
Woke up and me my counterparts at the Pepsi Center. Security wasn't bad...there was no "perimeter" that I had to pass to get to the center.
We looked around at our workspace...crap. We were put inside a display with excersize bikes. We decided to make the best of it.
We ate lunch at Brauns. Brauns is where the Fox News Channel, Fox News Radio, & Foxnews.com were set up. We broadcast from Brauns and the Pepsi Center as well as Invesco on Thursday.
Aug. 22nd
I don't remember when I woke but all I do remember about this day was putting up banners. Lots and lots of banners.
Aug. 23rd
Oye! The fun begins! I woke early this day and got to the "perimiter" it was NUTS. There were protestors and security galore! I spent the day going in and out of the primeter getting affiliates and making sure they had credentials. Then I gave tours of the places they were broadcasting from.
Aug. 25th-Aug. 27th
My days started at noon at the Pepsi Center. Celebrities, delegates, and random guests filled the Pepsi Center. By day I was helping affiliates book guests. By night I was Alan Colmes bodyguard and runner. Ha. Over the course of these days I met Dennis Kucinich who I am proud to say is one of the nicest men I've ever met! Seriously!
I also got scorned by ted copple because he started to walk towards me and I was holding my camera. I think he thought I was going to take a picture of him...so he said "uh uh uh". I was not happy...but got over it pretty fast.
On Wednesday night we got booned, and given the finger by people who didn't like Fox News.
Aug. 27th
This is the day that Barack Obama spoke at Invesco. By this time NO ONE was in the Pepsi Center anymore except for Radio Row which is where all of the conservative talk shows were located. As you might have guess we weren't the punch of the party. I was extreamly bored and listened to Colmes entire radio show live that night. He used to be a stand up comedian and his show is actually pretty good. The reason I wrote the nasty anti-republican blog was because of all of the genius people who called in to Alan's show that night.
Aug. 28th
This was the day that nothing happened. I went into work at 12pm on Thursday (yesterday) and came in on Friday at 5am, although I was supposed to be there at 3am but I waited TWO HOURS for a cab that never came. I ended up taking an early bus.
By 11am the whole set was down and it was like we were never there. I wandered around downtown Denver until I could barely stand. I had been up for 27 hours. I finally got back to the place I was staying and went to sleep.
Aug. 29th
Flew back to Idaho. My computer screen got smashed when it fell over in my bag while I was waiting for a bus.
Conclusion...
I had a lot of fun. I learned a lot too. I felt really lonely at times. I realized I like to work in TV rather than radio. I met a lot of cool radio affiliates. I now know that Hillary's delegates got the shaft!
That's it...
Ted Copple
Roger from KOGO with the heavy weight champ!
Honestly it was some of the easiest and hardest work I've ever done. Hard because I was exhausted. I pulled 10-11 hour days and most of it involved the following...
Aug. 21st
12:00pm
Woke up and me my counterparts at the Pepsi Center. Security wasn't bad...there was no "perimeter" that I had to pass to get to the center.
We looked around at our workspace...crap. We were put inside a display with excersize bikes. We decided to make the best of it.
We ate lunch at Brauns. Brauns is where the Fox News Channel, Fox News Radio, & Foxnews.com were set up. We broadcast from Brauns and the Pepsi Center as well as Invesco on Thursday.
Aug. 22nd
I don't remember when I woke but all I do remember about this day was putting up banners. Lots and lots of banners.
Aug. 23rd
Oye! The fun begins! I woke early this day and got to the "perimiter" it was NUTS. There were protestors and security galore! I spent the day going in and out of the primeter getting affiliates and making sure they had credentials. Then I gave tours of the places they were broadcasting from.
Aug. 25th-Aug. 27th
My days started at noon at the Pepsi Center. Celebrities, delegates, and random guests filled the Pepsi Center. By day I was helping affiliates book guests. By night I was Alan Colmes bodyguard and runner. Ha. Over the course of these days I met Dennis Kucinich who I am proud to say is one of the nicest men I've ever met! Seriously!
I also got scorned by ted copple because he started to walk towards me and I was holding my camera. I think he thought I was going to take a picture of him...so he said "uh uh uh". I was not happy...but got over it pretty fast.
On Wednesday night we got booned, and given the finger by people who didn't like Fox News.
Aug. 27th
This is the day that Barack Obama spoke at Invesco. By this time NO ONE was in the Pepsi Center anymore except for Radio Row which is where all of the conservative talk shows were located. As you might have guess we weren't the punch of the party. I was extreamly bored and listened to Colmes entire radio show live that night. He used to be a stand up comedian and his show is actually pretty good. The reason I wrote the nasty anti-republican blog was because of all of the genius people who called in to Alan's show that night.
Aug. 28th
This was the day that nothing happened. I went into work at 12pm on Thursday (yesterday) and came in on Friday at 5am, although I was supposed to be there at 3am but I waited TWO HOURS for a cab that never came. I ended up taking an early bus.
By 11am the whole set was down and it was like we were never there. I wandered around downtown Denver until I could barely stand. I had been up for 27 hours. I finally got back to the place I was staying and went to sleep.
Aug. 29th
Flew back to Idaho. My computer screen got smashed when it fell over in my bag while I was waiting for a bus.
Conclusion...
I had a lot of fun. I learned a lot too. I felt really lonely at times. I realized I like to work in TV rather than radio. I met a lot of cool radio affiliates. I now know that Hillary's delegates got the shaft!
That's it...
Ted Copple
Roger from KOGO with the heavy weight champ! 
Ignorance
It astounds me that some people will still open their mouths. Do they know what they're saying? Do they realize other people are listening?
My recent thoughts about ignorance came about while lIstening to the general public open up their republican atriums. You may disown my friendship after I say this, but I state it as an experienced fact: the most ignorant people I've ever known were republicans. The rest were people who didn't know what party they were. After discussing the values of each party with them, they make their decision. "I guess I'm a republican"
This is not to say there aren't ignorant democrats. But let's think about it...democrats seek more change than republicans as a general rule. Many republicans think things shouldn't change. So if we're ever evolving, but not changing, where does that get us? Nowhere.
Posted with LifeCast
My recent thoughts about ignorance came about while lIstening to the general public open up their republican atriums. You may disown my friendship after I say this, but I state it as an experienced fact: the most ignorant people I've ever known were republicans. The rest were people who didn't know what party they were. After discussing the values of each party with them, they make their decision. "I guess I'm a republican"
This is not to say there aren't ignorant democrats. But let's think about it...democrats seek more change than republicans as a general rule. Many republicans think things shouldn't change. So if we're ever evolving, but not changing, where does that get us? Nowhere.
Posted with LifeCast
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Muslims, Mormons, and Misconceptions
I would just like to state: I am sick and tired of "verbally opinionated yet stupid" individuals.
I can understand when someone doesn't have knowledge of a subject. An example would be when you don't understand a math problem or don't know the words to a song. Unfortunately, there are some people who think they know about something and voice their opinions on the subject but turn out to be severely mistaken. This problem or sickness I have created an acronym for and that acronym is VOYS (pronounced like 'voice') which stands for "Verbally Opinionated Yet Stupid".
So who are the worst victims of VOYS? Muslims, Mormons, African Americans, basically anyone who has been oppressed, those are the victims of VOYS. Why? Because many people will say something they believe is true before researching it. A lot of these people get their sources from the media. Some might read books. The worst perpetrators get their information from "a friend of a friend".
What happens when VOYS activists speak out? They begin to oppress people. The best example of bad knowledge is the treatment of good Muslims in America. These people are a very good group of individuals. They are clean, moral, and deeply rooted in their faith. They are faithful to their wives, they AREN'T violent, they abstain from alcohol and other substances, they don't believe in pre-marital sex, they're much like other good religions in America. Unfortunately their radical brothers in the East ruined the worlds overall perception of them. Many Americans are disrespectful to Muslims without ever learning what their faith is really about. They begin to have VOYS opinions and thus perpetuates fear and verbal abuse of a good people.
Mormons are also persecuted by those who practice VOYS opinions. Here are some facts and fiction of MY religion that should be known.
True: Mormons are Christians. We believe in Jesus Christ.
False: We do not believe that Jesus married Mary Magdalen.
True: Mormons read the King James Version of the Bible.
False: We do not currently practice polygamy.
True: For a short period of time in the Mid 1800's some members of the LDS faith practiced polygamy. This was after the Saints had crossed the country. These saints were called pioneers. Many women didn't have husbands and/or sons to take care of them because they lost them on the trek West.
True: The proper and actual name for the Mormon church is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. You may call a member of the church a Mormon, however, the more commonly used term is to say that someone is "LDS"
False: The church does not back or support any political party.
True: We do have Temples throughout the world.
False: They are not "Secret", rather we say they're sacred. Anyone can go into the temple if they live, and agree to live, a worthy life and join the LDS church.
True: We abstain from drinking coffee, tea, alcohol, and partaking in substance abuse and illegal drugs.
Basically all I want to say is that before you open your mouth about something controversial...do your research. You never know if the person you're speaking with is a victim of your VOYS comments. Finally, my comments do not mean I associate with any certain political party, candidate, or radical notion. I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, however, my religion does not dictate any certain views or political notions I have or believe. This is merely an objective rambling of my thoughts.
I can understand when someone doesn't have knowledge of a subject. An example would be when you don't understand a math problem or don't know the words to a song. Unfortunately, there are some people who think they know about something and voice their opinions on the subject but turn out to be severely mistaken. This problem or sickness I have created an acronym for and that acronym is VOYS (pronounced like 'voice') which stands for "Verbally Opinionated Yet Stupid".
So who are the worst victims of VOYS? Muslims, Mormons, African Americans, basically anyone who has been oppressed, those are the victims of VOYS. Why? Because many people will say something they believe is true before researching it. A lot of these people get their sources from the media. Some might read books. The worst perpetrators get their information from "a friend of a friend".
What happens when VOYS activists speak out? They begin to oppress people. The best example of bad knowledge is the treatment of good Muslims in America. These people are a very good group of individuals. They are clean, moral, and deeply rooted in their faith. They are faithful to their wives, they AREN'T violent, they abstain from alcohol and other substances, they don't believe in pre-marital sex, they're much like other good religions in America. Unfortunately their radical brothers in the East ruined the worlds overall perception of them. Many Americans are disrespectful to Muslims without ever learning what their faith is really about. They begin to have VOYS opinions and thus perpetuates fear and verbal abuse of a good people.
Mormons are also persecuted by those who practice VOYS opinions. Here are some facts and fiction of MY religion that should be known.
True: Mormons are Christians. We believe in Jesus Christ.
False: We do not believe that Jesus married Mary Magdalen.
True: Mormons read the King James Version of the Bible.
False: We do not currently practice polygamy.
True: For a short period of time in the Mid 1800's some members of the LDS faith practiced polygamy. This was after the Saints had crossed the country. These saints were called pioneers. Many women didn't have husbands and/or sons to take care of them because they lost them on the trek West.
True: The proper and actual name for the Mormon church is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. You may call a member of the church a Mormon, however, the more commonly used term is to say that someone is "LDS"
False: The church does not back or support any political party.
True: We do have Temples throughout the world.
False: They are not "Secret", rather we say they're sacred. Anyone can go into the temple if they live, and agree to live, a worthy life and join the LDS church.
True: We abstain from drinking coffee, tea, alcohol, and partaking in substance abuse and illegal drugs.
Basically all I want to say is that before you open your mouth about something controversial...do your research. You never know if the person you're speaking with is a victim of your VOYS comments. Finally, my comments do not mean I associate with any certain political party, candidate, or radical notion. I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, however, my religion does not dictate any certain views or political notions I have or believe. This is merely an objective rambling of my thoughts.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Campaign Parody Videos
So I thought that it would be a positive good in the world if I shared some funny campaign videos with you! Enjoy!
This man is the next greatest presidential impersonator.
And this one is hott!
But don't forget Hillary!
This man is the next greatest presidential impersonator.
And this one is hott!
But don't forget Hillary!
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
My Favorite Things
So I thought I would post about some of my favorite things. The last time I wrote some of my fave things they consisted of the color "baby blue" and "Celine Dion". Let's just say I've changed a lot.
1. Hair products. I love Aussie Mousse, it smells AMAZING. Also, anything Biologe
2. BRC's Frozen Custard. It's like eating sweet buttery ice cream. It'll give you thighs of thunder but it's so great!
3. My MAGIC BULLET. It's like a mini blender and it's wonderful. You can make smoothies way fast.
4. The demolition derby. It is a great place to dress white trash, eat junk, and chill with friends.
5. Newsvine.com, newsvine is a great website where you can view all kinds of news from various freelance writers or from the professionals like the AP.
6. iPod Touch. I love it! And now you can add applications so I can have cool things on it like local news and tetris.
Well, that's all for now. I was going to do 10 but I don't feel like it, and after all...it is my blog. Enjoy, and try these things!
1. Hair products. I love Aussie Mousse, it smells AMAZING. Also, anything Biologe
2. BRC's Frozen Custard. It's like eating sweet buttery ice cream. It'll give you thighs of thunder but it's so great!
3. My MAGIC BULLET. It's like a mini blender and it's wonderful. You can make smoothies way fast.
4. The demolition derby. It is a great place to dress white trash, eat junk, and chill with friends.
5. Newsvine.com, newsvine is a great website where you can view all kinds of news from various freelance writers or from the professionals like the AP.
6. iPod Touch. I love it! And now you can add applications so I can have cool things on it like local news and tetris.
Well, that's all for now. I was going to do 10 but I don't feel like it, and after all...it is my blog. Enjoy, and try these things!
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Blackish Brown & Red
So I spent way too much money getting my hair cut and dyed. Here's a pic! I love it!
Online Dating Sites
So I've had two roommates meet their EC's and true loves online. I still can't do it. I cannot bring myself to meet someone I've never met before.
What happened to letters? I miss letters. No one writes letters anymore. It used to be that if you were bored and loser-like you would get what they call a "Pen-Pal" not with Facebook, Myspace, Blogger, LDS Mingle, and online dating sites...people just let the personality profiles choose their suitable suitors.
What about the perverts? I was bored one day and watched "To Catch a Preditor" for two hours. I couldn't believe that people were actually sick enough to do something so crude with a child. Furthermore, they were stupid enough to bring booze and show up even after they seen the show before. I don't want to end up with one of those white trash toothless drunkards. Granted some of them don't fit the physical profile I just mentioned...but on the inside they're still trash.
Beyond perverts there are other types of men that seem to pop up online. The ones who were married for a few months and then realized that they only married for one reason and now all they want to do is get out. So they do, then they realize that they can't get back in because no one wants a divorcee.
Then there are those motor sports, Nascar lovin, artery clogging, full bearded, "full bodied", fishers of fish who just want a women who will break down and buy a tweety bird steering wheel cover to match his Taz bumper sticker.
Finally, if you're LDS then you know the ones who are looking for their ultimate wify online. The one who will seriously sew him a quilt everytime he's cold and bake "Apple Crisp" every night of the week. Women...be ware these men, they will seek you out and bear their 6 page long online testimonies to you quickly followed by a two week engagement.
So...I guess I have to say that I don't think much of online dating. I won't lie when I say I've joined something or other for fun...but for fun is all. I can't ever agree to meet or enjoy the company of a man who might be hiding something awkward in his closet like figurines or a bag of hair.
My man from online! Woot! Just kidding of course!
What happened to letters? I miss letters. No one writes letters anymore. It used to be that if you were bored and loser-like you would get what they call a "Pen-Pal" not with Facebook, Myspace, Blogger, LDS Mingle, and online dating sites...people just let the personality profiles choose their suitable suitors.
What about the perverts? I was bored one day and watched "To Catch a Preditor" for two hours. I couldn't believe that people were actually sick enough to do something so crude with a child. Furthermore, they were stupid enough to bring booze and show up even after they seen the show before. I don't want to end up with one of those white trash toothless drunkards. Granted some of them don't fit the physical profile I just mentioned...but on the inside they're still trash.
Beyond perverts there are other types of men that seem to pop up online. The ones who were married for a few months and then realized that they only married for one reason and now all they want to do is get out. So they do, then they realize that they can't get back in because no one wants a divorcee.
Then there are those motor sports, Nascar lovin, artery clogging, full bearded, "full bodied", fishers of fish who just want a women who will break down and buy a tweety bird steering wheel cover to match his Taz bumper sticker.
Finally, if you're LDS then you know the ones who are looking for their ultimate wify online. The one who will seriously sew him a quilt everytime he's cold and bake "Apple Crisp" every night of the week. Women...be ware these men, they will seek you out and bear their 6 page long online testimonies to you quickly followed by a two week engagement.
So...I guess I have to say that I don't think much of online dating. I won't lie when I say I've joined something or other for fun...but for fun is all. I can't ever agree to meet or enjoy the company of a man who might be hiding something awkward in his closet like figurines or a bag of hair.
My man from online! Woot! Just kidding of course!
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Um...Almost Done...Uh-Oh
So the Summer Semester is over and now I am getting ready to start my final semester in college this Fall. I thought it would take me forever, I still think it will take me forever.
People have been asking me what I'm going to do after I graduate. I think it's fair to tell you I don't have many plans as of yet. I do plan to go back to Vermont and rot for a while so I can figure out my life.
While I rot in Vermont I plan to work at the same place I have worked at for the past 7 years in between high school and college. Those of you who actually know me know where that place is. But please...don't judge. I would actually be making as much there as I would be working for much better places.
Honestly, it's nice to do some menial work once and a while. It helps you remember who you really are and why you don't want to be stuck in that job forever. A few months working there and I'll be ready to move on to anything better. Everything seems dynamic after empanadas. Or, maybe I'll stay a while longer. Regardless...it's my decision and I made it for a reason.
Tentatively there are a few things I want to accomplish after I graduate. I want to see the world. As a journalist I think it's important to actually understand the things you're discussing with the world.
I also want to pursue photography, music, and my writing. Those are all things that are so important to me but somehow I never push past the simple meanderings of my web page.
Anyhow...this is lame...but I'm not, so, don't doubt my ambition.
People have been asking me what I'm going to do after I graduate. I think it's fair to tell you I don't have many plans as of yet. I do plan to go back to Vermont and rot for a while so I can figure out my life.
While I rot in Vermont I plan to work at the same place I have worked at for the past 7 years in between high school and college. Those of you who actually know me know where that place is. But please...don't judge. I would actually be making as much there as I would be working for much better places.
Honestly, it's nice to do some menial work once and a while. It helps you remember who you really are and why you don't want to be stuck in that job forever. A few months working there and I'll be ready to move on to anything better. Everything seems dynamic after empanadas. Or, maybe I'll stay a while longer. Regardless...it's my decision and I made it for a reason.
Tentatively there are a few things I want to accomplish after I graduate. I want to see the world. As a journalist I think it's important to actually understand the things you're discussing with the world.
I also want to pursue photography, music, and my writing. Those are all things that are so important to me but somehow I never push past the simple meanderings of my web page.
Anyhow...this is lame...but I'm not, so, don't doubt my ambition.
Friday, July 11, 2008
The Writer and the Lie
So I would like to tell you a story about this book. It's one of the most taught and most banned books in the country. It's controversial and a lot of people dislike the language used in the text.
Now, there was an incident on my campus that brings raging fury into my fiery passionate existence. I will start by telling you that there is a swear about every 8 words or so but it's not the F word and can easily be skimmed over so you can understand the major tenants of the book.
The incident was brought to my attention when a classmate of mine from American Literature went to check out the book in our university library. She checked out both copies. When she opened both copies she was appalled to find out that EVERY swear word in the ENTIRE text was CROSSED OUT.
I would like to know what pathetic excuse for a human being spends the time to cross out hundreds of words in a literary work of art?
Not only it is a waste of time but that person must be so angry and judgemental to take the time to fill the books with strips of permanent marker.
Please please. If you don't want to read The Catcher in the Rye, don't. If you don't want to read any other literary work with swearing or questionable material, don't. But please don't ruin the experience for someone else. Free agency is free for a reason.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
The Office
I love the British and the American version of The Office...but I didn't know about this version?
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
The Beauty of "B" Town
So...not many people know where I am from. I hale from Burlington, Vermont. Well...I was born in Falmouth, Massachusetts but Vermont is where I've lived since I was 2. So...below are some photos NOT TAKEN BY ME of where I'm from. Someday I'll post some great photos that are taken by me.
ENJOY!
Above is a photo of Lake Champlain. It's a huge lake. I live across the street from it and it's beautiful in the summer and winter!
Here is Church Street. It's where you go to shop, eat, mingle, and enjoy the sun! There are many great hippie sightings here too!
Here's more Church Street in the winter time!
Finally...a sunset!
ENJOY!
Above is a photo of Lake Champlain. It's a huge lake. I live across the street from it and it's beautiful in the summer and winter!
Here is Church Street. It's where you go to shop, eat, mingle, and enjoy the sun! There are many great hippie sightings here too!
Here's more Church Street in the winter time!
Finally...a sunset!
Monday, July 7, 2008
I love I-News
I've been doing I-News ( ) for years now and I love it very much. It has helped me grow as a reporter, producer, director, and all around leader. I've seen a lot of students in the program and every one of them is bright and motivated. My favorite part of the job is watching these students go on to get wonderful internships and careers in the industry.
I think I-news is a hidden jewel among byui. Not many students know about it but it is a great way to find out things about campus that you wouldn't have even though existed. We also have footage of stuff that no one else has...even local stations.
I'm not saying all this to boast or advertise...I am just simply grateful.
So...if you're bored I encourage you to watch inews because there are many students who are working really hard in the dungeon of the Spori to put together this show.
I think I-news is a hidden jewel among byui. Not many students know about it but it is a great way to find out things about campus that you wouldn't have even though existed. We also have footage of stuff that no one else has...even local stations.
I'm not saying all this to boast or advertise...I am just simply grateful.
So...if you're bored I encourage you to watch inews because there are many students who are working really hard in the dungeon of the Spori to put together this show.
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Website
Hey Everyone!
I launched a brand new website for myself...
it's....
www.christalcollette.bravehost.com
Please check it out! It has pieces of my portfolio. Pieces like writing, photography, and even a newscast and short film I anchored!
Enjoy!
I launched a brand new website for myself...
it's....
www.christalcollette.bravehost.com
Please check it out! It has pieces of my portfolio. Pieces like writing, photography, and even a newscast and short film I anchored!
Enjoy!
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Pudding
I would like to tell you why I enjoy pudding.
Pudding doesn't have an opinion about anything. It's solid enough to make a difference but soft enough to go down smooth. Pudding likes all movies and all books and will stand by you.
Pudding can combine itself with other flavors. Pudding doesn't mind sharing it's cup just as long as each flavor has it's space in the cup.
Pudding doesn't care what political affliation you are. Pudding stays on its own side of the cup and knows what flavor it is.
Pudding even has its own blog called "The Daily Dish" pudding is very cynical in its blog...especially about matters of the heart.
If you ever need a creamy sholder to cry on...pudding is there. But please be nice to pudding because if you aren't pudding might stain your favorite sweater. Even worse, if you ignore pudding then pudding will mold and spoil. No one wants pudding to be spoiled, it's more demanding that way.
So as you go about your day don't forget pudding. It's womens best friend.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Faulkner
If you're a fan of William Faulkner then chances are you do like good literature but let me express something...
He's a sick twisted man.
He's a sick twisted man.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Yes "I" Can
Yes I can now be a communist.
Yes I can purchase red meat.
Yes I can move to Canada and protest the occupation in Iraq.
Yes I can eat tuna NOT whales.
Yes I can loose all my money to identity theft.
Yes I can lick the cream off the oreos before I eat the cookie.
Yes I can ride my bicycle in the street.
Yes I can fight for my country.
Yes I can drink 100% fruit juice.
Yes I can be intelligent and still get an F.
Yes I can dun' gon' get me an education tru high skool.
Yes I can starve.
Yes I can have the freedom to write whatever I want online.
Yes I can be taken away by the police at a rally against George Dubya.
Yes I can knit.
Yes I can live in a blue state, support being red, then vote blue.
Yes I can be free to live my religion.
Yes I can get sent home for dressing like santa.
Yes I can watch a student bring a gun to school.
Yes I can get killed by that student while a man in Wyoming hunts deer he doesn't eat.
Yes I can recieve the call to prayer.
Yes I believe happy cows come from California but good milk comes from Vermont.
Yes I can write a senator.
Yes I can wait a year for a letter from that senator.
Yes I can change.
Yes I believe we have a right to change.
No you cannot make me change my mind.
Yes I can purchase red meat.
Yes I can move to Canada and protest the occupation in Iraq.
Yes I can eat tuna NOT whales.
Yes I can loose all my money to identity theft.
Yes I can lick the cream off the oreos before I eat the cookie.
Yes I can ride my bicycle in the street.
Yes I can fight for my country.
Yes I can drink 100% fruit juice.
Yes I can be intelligent and still get an F.
Yes I can dun' gon' get me an education tru high skool.
Yes I can starve.
Yes I can have the freedom to write whatever I want online.
Yes I can be taken away by the police at a rally against George Dubya.
Yes I can knit.
Yes I can live in a blue state, support being red, then vote blue.
Yes I can be free to live my religion.
Yes I can get sent home for dressing like santa.
Yes I can watch a student bring a gun to school.
Yes I can get killed by that student while a man in Wyoming hunts deer he doesn't eat.
Yes I can recieve the call to prayer.
Yes I believe happy cows come from California but good milk comes from Vermont.
Yes I can write a senator.
Yes I can wait a year for a letter from that senator.
Yes I can change.
Yes I believe we have a right to change.
No you cannot make me change my mind.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
American Lit
Right now I am trying to define moderism. Apparently it has a lot to do with the Russians.
Note to world...
Don't take four literature classes in one semester.
Another note to world...
Don't take four literature classes you don't need anymore...in one semester.
Finally, for the Freshman...
Know what you're minoring in and map your life. Even if it's a rough draft.
Note to world...
Don't take four literature classes in one semester.
Another note to world...
Don't take four literature classes you don't need anymore...in one semester.
Finally, for the Freshman...
Know what you're minoring in and map your life. Even if it's a rough draft.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Another Day, Another Dollar
I walked off of the bus into the blistering winter cold. Outside of the doors sat an old man with one arm. He was furiously ringing a little red bell. I pulled out twenty cents from my pocket and put it into the red canister. I stepped through the double doors into a sea of people. Above me there was a giant wreath with huge bells and fake Christmas balls that were probably decorated by youngsters in China.
I walked past the chain retail stores and finally made it to the domain I call the food court. The lights from each neon sign blinded me. The smell started to slowly flow towards me. It was a smell of coffee, egg rolls and crisp French fries that have just come out of the oil. I round the corner and make my way to my station…Taco Bell.
I proceed to push my way into the food court and two men, probably in their late teens, bump into me. “Excuse you!” I exclaimed. They gave me a cruel look and kept walking.
I make my way closer to the restaurant and I get a visual of one of my co-workers. Her name is Tammy. Tammy is slow on the uptake mentally and some would say she exemplifies the social group of trash that is white. Her teeth are jagged and her eyes are wide like a pool of wonderment of things she does not know. Her under bite takes up half of the bottom of her face and her glasses are think ovals.
Tammy grew up in rural Vermont. Somehow she managed to meet a man who is also a bit slow mentally. Together they have two sons. Each son is graduated from high school and also working menial jobs to pay their bills. Tammy's hat is covered in Taco Bell pins. She’s proud of her accomplishments as she’s been working there for eight years. On her right lapel she has a nametag that reads “register manager” everyone but her knows it’s a made up title.
I walk into the quarter door carrying my purse and wool coat. Tammy looks at me out of the corner of her eye to see if I’ll greet her first.
“Hi Tammy, how are you today?” I say to her
“Oh! I’m alright…just getting by. We had a big problem on our way to work today! Our van started smoking on the interstate and my husband pulled over. We had to call them tow truck guys and everyfring’…I thought we were going to catch on fire!” Tammy exclaims.
“Oh no Tammy…well I’m glad you’re alright.”
“Yup we’ll be okay.” She replies.
“Good.” I say with a gentle smile.
I proceed to walk out back to see who is working and hang up my coat and purse. It’s my shift tonight and I want it to run smoothly. Another manager greets me with a hello. “hello Ronald” I reply. Ronald is in his early thirties. He is currently living with his wife and mistress and both of them are pregnant. I try to not listen to his stories about his personal life. Most of them read like a script for Jerry Springer, which is ironic because his mistress actually made an appearance on the show. I’m glad he’s not working tonight.
The evening begins as usual. Angry customers, cranky children, employees screaming out to me that they need more beef, lettuce, and sauces because no one did anything before I came in. I run around frantically.
Soon enough I see the two boys who bumped into me on my way into work. They begin to argue in the middle of the food court. All of a sudden I see one of them throw a punch! My crew runs up to the front of the counter to see what’s happening. Next thing I know they’re right in front of our restaurant. There are customers everywhere and our cashiers are trying to stay focused and take orders while two heathens go at it in the food court. Then…it gets heated. One of the two (a short boy with a white baseball cap, jeans and a fleece) picks up one of the heavy metal chairs from the court and hits the other over the head. The other boy (slightly taller with a short buzz cut and baggy jeans) picks the other up off of his feet and pushes him up onto our counter! He slides him across the counter and the heavy metal condiment stands go flying off towards my employees.
I screamed for my co-worker to call security. The two see a little man in a rent-a-cop uniform running through the mall. They ironically look at each other and run off in the opposite direction leaving a mess of sticky Mountain Dew and hot sauce everywhere. I scream to the cashiers and crew to finish taking orders and making food. The last thing I want is for people to complain about us because of some punk’s testosterone level.
When I go over to survey the damage one of my employees, a tall buff nineteen year old man, is standing in the corner quivering. His eyes have grown so large with fear that they take up half his face. I say to him “hey…it’s alright. You’re alright; now help me clean up this mess.” He replies “did you see that? They just…they just fought in the food court. I’ve never seen a fight that up close before.” Sometimes the ones you think are tough turn out to be neither fearless nor brave.
I finally clean up the store and maintain order with my employees. Another short security guard comes up to the counter about a half an hour after the incident. “I need you to fill out some paperwork” he says. “Fine, I’ll be right out.” I replied but I was furious with all of the pipsqueaks that are expected to protect us in the mall.
We walk over to the table and I take many of my frustrations out on him.
“Why didn’t you do something sooner? You would think that maybe you could have someone in the food court on a busy night like this. Most of these problems happen here but I never see you guys when we need you.” I say to him in a condescending tone.
“Well miss…we were off throughout the mall. We came as quickly as we could. He replied.
“No!” I began to raise my voice. “You took way too long and you sent the smallest guard in the food court. Do you really think that man could’ve done anything?” I said to him. Now my face was clearly not accepting.
“Listen, we did the best we could. I need you to sign this form.” He had a big ego and didn’t want a woman to tell him how it was. I filled out the affidavit and went back to work.
I walk up to the register to take some orders during another night at another crappy job to pay the bills. Yet inside I shout with joy…something happened today and it was better than making burritos.
I walked past the chain retail stores and finally made it to the domain I call the food court. The lights from each neon sign blinded me. The smell started to slowly flow towards me. It was a smell of coffee, egg rolls and crisp French fries that have just come out of the oil. I round the corner and make my way to my station…Taco Bell.
I proceed to push my way into the food court and two men, probably in their late teens, bump into me. “Excuse you!” I exclaimed. They gave me a cruel look and kept walking.
I make my way closer to the restaurant and I get a visual of one of my co-workers. Her name is Tammy. Tammy is slow on the uptake mentally and some would say she exemplifies the social group of trash that is white. Her teeth are jagged and her eyes are wide like a pool of wonderment of things she does not know. Her under bite takes up half of the bottom of her face and her glasses are think ovals.
Tammy grew up in rural Vermont. Somehow she managed to meet a man who is also a bit slow mentally. Together they have two sons. Each son is graduated from high school and also working menial jobs to pay their bills. Tammy's hat is covered in Taco Bell pins. She’s proud of her accomplishments as she’s been working there for eight years. On her right lapel she has a nametag that reads “register manager” everyone but her knows it’s a made up title.
I walk into the quarter door carrying my purse and wool coat. Tammy looks at me out of the corner of her eye to see if I’ll greet her first.
“Hi Tammy, how are you today?” I say to her
“Oh! I’m alright…just getting by. We had a big problem on our way to work today! Our van started smoking on the interstate and my husband pulled over. We had to call them tow truck guys and everyfring’…I thought we were going to catch on fire!” Tammy exclaims.
“Oh no Tammy…well I’m glad you’re alright.”
“Yup we’ll be okay.” She replies.
“Good.” I say with a gentle smile.
I proceed to walk out back to see who is working and hang up my coat and purse. It’s my shift tonight and I want it to run smoothly. Another manager greets me with a hello. “hello Ronald” I reply. Ronald is in his early thirties. He is currently living with his wife and mistress and both of them are pregnant. I try to not listen to his stories about his personal life. Most of them read like a script for Jerry Springer, which is ironic because his mistress actually made an appearance on the show. I’m glad he’s not working tonight.
The evening begins as usual. Angry customers, cranky children, employees screaming out to me that they need more beef, lettuce, and sauces because no one did anything before I came in. I run around frantically.
Soon enough I see the two boys who bumped into me on my way into work. They begin to argue in the middle of the food court. All of a sudden I see one of them throw a punch! My crew runs up to the front of the counter to see what’s happening. Next thing I know they’re right in front of our restaurant. There are customers everywhere and our cashiers are trying to stay focused and take orders while two heathens go at it in the food court. Then…it gets heated. One of the two (a short boy with a white baseball cap, jeans and a fleece) picks up one of the heavy metal chairs from the court and hits the other over the head. The other boy (slightly taller with a short buzz cut and baggy jeans) picks the other up off of his feet and pushes him up onto our counter! He slides him across the counter and the heavy metal condiment stands go flying off towards my employees.
I screamed for my co-worker to call security. The two see a little man in a rent-a-cop uniform running through the mall. They ironically look at each other and run off in the opposite direction leaving a mess of sticky Mountain Dew and hot sauce everywhere. I scream to the cashiers and crew to finish taking orders and making food. The last thing I want is for people to complain about us because of some punk’s testosterone level.
When I go over to survey the damage one of my employees, a tall buff nineteen year old man, is standing in the corner quivering. His eyes have grown so large with fear that they take up half his face. I say to him “hey…it’s alright. You’re alright; now help me clean up this mess.” He replies “did you see that? They just…they just fought in the food court. I’ve never seen a fight that up close before.” Sometimes the ones you think are tough turn out to be neither fearless nor brave.
I finally clean up the store and maintain order with my employees. Another short security guard comes up to the counter about a half an hour after the incident. “I need you to fill out some paperwork” he says. “Fine, I’ll be right out.” I replied but I was furious with all of the pipsqueaks that are expected to protect us in the mall.
We walk over to the table and I take many of my frustrations out on him.
“Why didn’t you do something sooner? You would think that maybe you could have someone in the food court on a busy night like this. Most of these problems happen here but I never see you guys when we need you.” I say to him in a condescending tone.
“Well miss…we were off throughout the mall. We came as quickly as we could. He replied.
“No!” I began to raise my voice. “You took way too long and you sent the smallest guard in the food court. Do you really think that man could’ve done anything?” I said to him. Now my face was clearly not accepting.
“Listen, we did the best we could. I need you to sign this form.” He had a big ego and didn’t want a woman to tell him how it was. I filled out the affidavit and went back to work.
I walk up to the register to take some orders during another night at another crappy job to pay the bills. Yet inside I shout with joy…something happened today and it was better than making burritos.
Monday, June 9, 2008
Guitars, Life, Winco!
So Guitars Unplugged went pretty well. The graphics were great! I do wish we had had more bands tryout. Although...this is what made the event spectacular for me...
When I went on stage to hand out prizes with my co-manager I walked to stage left...slide my foot out from under me and...FELL IN FRONT OF 3,500 PEOPLE!
Not my proudest moment. Not to mention my poor co-manager didn't know I left stage and she kept standing their handing out prizes by herself...she was got a bit embarrassed too!
Ultimately it was a blast...a lot of hard work...but a blast.
Now on to life.
I don't really feel like doing anything after graduation. I think I am going to work a menial job when I got home to make some extra cash and then buy a car. Then...when I get so antsy and annoyed with being in Vermont I will move on. I also have to save money.
Finally...Winco is so rad. I spent too much money there tonight. I suppose it's because there isn't any good clothing shopping here so I supplement it with grocery shopping. haha.
Now here's one final question. Why must it be a Winco requirement to be missing teeth, wear sleeveless man T's, and use sentences like "them apples are real tasty"?
That's All,
Chris"TAL"
When I went on stage to hand out prizes with my co-manager I walked to stage left...slide my foot out from under me and...FELL IN FRONT OF 3,500 PEOPLE!
Not my proudest moment. Not to mention my poor co-manager didn't know I left stage and she kept standing their handing out prizes by herself...she was got a bit embarrassed too!
Ultimately it was a blast...a lot of hard work...but a blast.
Now on to life.
I don't really feel like doing anything after graduation. I think I am going to work a menial job when I got home to make some extra cash and then buy a car. Then...when I get so antsy and annoyed with being in Vermont I will move on. I also have to save money.
Finally...Winco is so rad. I spent too much money there tonight. I suppose it's because there isn't any good clothing shopping here so I supplement it with grocery shopping. haha.
Now here's one final question. Why must it be a Winco requirement to be missing teeth, wear sleeveless man T's, and use sentences like "them apples are real tasty"?
That's All,
Chris"TAL"
Friday, June 6, 2008
Windy Happiness
Today I am happy. This is why.
I read 15 pages of Robert Frost at 4:30am.
I am putting the final touches on Guitars Unplugged
I am the Talent Peformance Director for Fall and I just found out
I like to eat
I am Chris"TAL"
That is why I am happy today.
I read 15 pages of Robert Frost at 4:30am.
I am putting the final touches on Guitars Unplugged
I am the Talent Peformance Director for Fall and I just found out
I like to eat
I am Chris"TAL"
That is why I am happy today.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Movie Theatre
Here's the story of my movie theatre cat fight.
Setting: Midnight showing of Prince Caspian.
Story...
There was a table on the side near the windows to the arcade. My friend put her purse and sweatshirt down. Some guy started taking the chairs away from the table while we were getting our popcorn. My other friend nicely told them we were sitting there and our stuff was there. He said "well we were standing here first"
My friend: "well we put our stuff down so we could save the table"
He made some snerky comment towards her that I didn't hear.
So knowing that my friend doesn't deserve to be treated like a day old muffin in the trash, I walked pass him and said "excuse me" and sat in the chair that was behind him at the table. This man and his wife were standing directly in front of the table with their arms crossed.
I made a remark that the husband "doesn't have to stand right in front of my face" and then he started going off about being there first.
This whole thing was beyond stupid. Then...his wife got involved. I proceeded to make sure that she didn't give me lip. We argued for a bit and then my friend tried to stop it by saying that everyone should just "lay off"
I then tried to apologize. The wife mocked my apology!
I said to the wife "Did you really just say that to my face?"
She said "Yea"
I then argued with her for a another minute or so about how immature she is and then I dropped it.
Here is the best part...
When the REAL line actually formed the couple got in front of us and the wife said "ha see we got in front of them"
Then...THERE WERE TWO THEATRES and we didn't even have to go into the same theatre.
Moral of the story...Don't be possesive about a ticket line that DOESN'T EXIST.
Setting: Midnight showing of Prince Caspian.
Story...
There was a table on the side near the windows to the arcade. My friend put her purse and sweatshirt down. Some guy started taking the chairs away from the table while we were getting our popcorn. My other friend nicely told them we were sitting there and our stuff was there. He said "well we were standing here first"
My friend: "well we put our stuff down so we could save the table"
He made some snerky comment towards her that I didn't hear.
So knowing that my friend doesn't deserve to be treated like a day old muffin in the trash, I walked pass him and said "excuse me" and sat in the chair that was behind him at the table. This man and his wife were standing directly in front of the table with their arms crossed.
I made a remark that the husband "doesn't have to stand right in front of my face" and then he started going off about being there first.
This whole thing was beyond stupid. Then...his wife got involved. I proceeded to make sure that she didn't give me lip. We argued for a bit and then my friend tried to stop it by saying that everyone should just "lay off"
I then tried to apologize. The wife mocked my apology!
I said to the wife "Did you really just say that to my face?"
She said "Yea"
I then argued with her for a another minute or so about how immature she is and then I dropped it.
Here is the best part...
When the REAL line actually formed the couple got in front of us and the wife said "ha see we got in front of them"
Then...THERE WERE TWO THEATRES and we didn't even have to go into the same theatre.
Moral of the story...Don't be possesive about a ticket line that DOESN'T EXIST.
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Procrastination is DA BOMB
So I have devised a list of things you can procrastinate on in case you ever want to live by the seat of your pants.
1. Laundry-wait till the last pair of underoos
2. Homework-Use distractions like facebook, myspace, chillin, eating, hiking, sleeping, working out, and talking to your mother.
3. Sleeping-It's only great when you know you can sleep till McDonald's goes from the breakfast to lunch menu.
4. Reading-Make sure you get all the way into an American Literature class without reading Huck Finn.
5. Dating-Um yea...this one's easy. Women, have an opinion. Men, be afraid that women have too many opinions. Both will easily procrastinata relationships.
6. Watching Lost-wait until season four to start the show. It's not worth it to start three years ago.
7. Buying Sneakers-once they're too old to use just start calling them "lucky"
8. Calling Old Friends-usually you don't call them because they're weird. So, just make up some story about being busy with "life" and give them a facebook poke. By "life" I mean playing Guitar Hero.
9. Cooking-it's called pot pies in the freezer aisle.
10. Finally Working-you can spend your time writing on a mindless blog about all the things you can procrastinate at.
1. Laundry-wait till the last pair of underoos
2. Homework-Use distractions like facebook, myspace, chillin, eating, hiking, sleeping, working out, and talking to your mother.
3. Sleeping-It's only great when you know you can sleep till McDonald's goes from the breakfast to lunch menu.
4. Reading-Make sure you get all the way into an American Literature class without reading Huck Finn.
5. Dating-Um yea...this one's easy. Women, have an opinion. Men, be afraid that women have too many opinions. Both will easily procrastinata relationships.
6. Watching Lost-wait until season four to start the show. It's not worth it to start three years ago.
7. Buying Sneakers-once they're too old to use just start calling them "lucky"
8. Calling Old Friends-usually you don't call them because they're weird. So, just make up some story about being busy with "life" and give them a facebook poke. By "life" I mean playing Guitar Hero.
9. Cooking-it's called pot pies in the freezer aisle.
10. Finally Working-you can spend your time writing on a mindless blog about all the things you can procrastinate at.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Hello World!
So I like to write. Some fellow "collegues" of mine said they all had blogs and I should jump on the bandwagon. I gave it some serious thought. Why would I want one?? Then it came to me almost as clear as the acronym WMD's came to George Bush...it's another way I can avoid interpersonal communication.
Anyhow, this is my blog. I will probably talk about things that aren't relavent to anything. I might complain about "the man", share recipies, explain why Wal-Mart is taking over society, or post goofy photos of kittens. So enjoy!
First off...I would like to explain why my blog is called Half Glass Full. One day while I was doing my internship I was in an edit bay listening to Good ole' George Dubya give one of his many speeches. He was talking about the nations perception of something and he decided he was going to use an age old cliche. He said "ya know you can either be a half glass full or half glass empty kind of person". Even though it's not his biggest YouTube worthy mistake...it make me giggle.
On the subject of giggling...during the course of reading this blog you might come to the conclusion that I am not a Republican. I used to be until I went on an RNC trip and realized that I didn't like the way they do politics. If you read this and are offended then please remember that [the views expressed in this blog are not nessasarily the views expressed by BYU-Idaho and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints].
So...I hope you enjoy blog. Tell your friends, share it with your neighbors, attribute it in your papers!
Anyhow, this is my blog. I will probably talk about things that aren't relavent to anything. I might complain about "the man", share recipies, explain why Wal-Mart is taking over society, or post goofy photos of kittens. So enjoy!
First off...I would like to explain why my blog is called Half Glass Full. One day while I was doing my internship I was in an edit bay listening to Good ole' George Dubya give one of his many speeches. He was talking about the nations perception of something and he decided he was going to use an age old cliche. He said "ya know you can either be a half glass full or half glass empty kind of person". Even though it's not his biggest YouTube worthy mistake...it make me giggle.
On the subject of giggling...during the course of reading this blog you might come to the conclusion that I am not a Republican. I used to be until I went on an RNC trip and realized that I didn't like the way they do politics. If you read this and are offended then please remember that [the views expressed in this blog are not nessasarily the views expressed by BYU-Idaho and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints].
So...I hope you enjoy blog. Tell your friends, share it with your neighbors, attribute it in your papers!
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