In my lifetime, I have seen some of the worst events to ever occur in our nations history. I’ve seen the worst terrorist attack in American history, seen the worst hurricane in our nations history, and I was lucky enough to be able to vote and see an African American be my 44th president. Just when I thought that I had seen everything, I now, in some way became a part of another historic moment in history. On April 20, 2010, an offshore oilrig exploded off the Gulf of Mexico and sank causing the worst oil spill in American history.
On Sept 11, 2001, no one in the world thought that another nation would dare attack Americans on American soil like that. I don’t think anybody took terrorism seriously until the attack happened. I know didn’t. It opened my eyes. I saw people of all races crying, praying, holding hands together, and jumping to their death from 90 stories up, and it crushed America’s heart.
On August 28,2005 not even 5 years later, our nation was hit with another tragedy. More than 1,800 natives of New Orleans were killed in hurricane Katrina. I think the way it was handled and lack of warning, is what made it so bad. But with the levee being built below sea level and already on the edge of the ocean, it was only a matter of time. What I still never understood is why there were no warnings given until it was too late. I felt sad having to see all those families walking in water up to there waste, and having to walk past dead bodies floating in the water. New Orleans told residents to get when Katrina was already knocking on the levees. But gave no transportation to leave in. So if you didn’t have a car you were stuck to try to survive the storm out.
January 20,2009 will always be a special day to me more than others. That was the day our nation elected its first African American President. As an African American myself, this is something a lot of our parents and grandparents wouldn’t believe unless they were living to see it. For someone of minority to have a title that so many work toward yet only one man every four years can achieve. It gives a sense or feeling of if you put your mind to it, you can do anything.
On April 20, 2010 we are now seeing the worst oil spill EVER! An oil spill which every day spews at least 210,000 gallons of oil a day. So far this is the 85th day of the oil spill, and it has yet to be fixed. It has now spit more than 1,260,000 gallons of oil into the gulf coast. We are already feeling the rising prices in seafood, and it will keep going up. This tragedy will not be soon forgotten, as the effect will be here long after the oil stops. Economically and environmentally.
I can only imagine the things to come that I will see in my life that will again make some type of impact in my life.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
"Cops Are the Best" by Corey Hocker
We should let all the cops across the world just do what they feel and kill anybody at any time as they please, with no worries on punishment and repercussion of any kind. If they see a man J-walking , forget writing tickets, taking people to court structures, just point the gun aim and shot them dead.
If cops see a young woman about to turn without using her turn signal, the officer has the right to pull the lady over, pull out there weapon walk over to her slow, and shot her down. This understanding should be written and approved with any great laws within the constitution.
We especially want are rookie cops to handle things as they feel fit, make all the mistakes within the first year so by the time they become veterans, they can have the proper understanding to never take any crap from any Sullivan American here on planet earth.
When officers see anything or anybody they have a problem with or even feeling a little racist that day, with no questions asked, take that person off this planet fast. This is the only way I see this great country moving forward in the right direction, and most of all this will be the greatest way things have been handled sense the water gate conspiracy.
If cops see a young woman about to turn without using her turn signal, the officer has the right to pull the lady over, pull out there weapon walk over to her slow, and shot her down. This understanding should be written and approved with any great laws within the constitution.
We especially want are rookie cops to handle things as they feel fit, make all the mistakes within the first year so by the time they become veterans, they can have the proper understanding to never take any crap from any Sullivan American here on planet earth.
When officers see anything or anybody they have a problem with or even feeling a little racist that day, with no questions asked, take that person off this planet fast. This is the only way I see this great country moving forward in the right direction, and most of all this will be the greatest way things have been handled sense the water gate conspiracy.
"A Beautiful Stranger" by Angelita Lopez
Standing with a group of, what it appears to be my friends, at an outdoor shopping mall. Hanging out in the blazing sun I look at them and realize they look like they should be out of a Japanese film, or Anime. Most of them tall, skinny, with short haircuts with different many different colors to them. I feel the breeze hit me, softly, as my hair flows across my face.
I move my hair away from my eyes, I look up and see him, the most beautiful creature I have ever seen. Perfectly pale skin, white, medium length straight hair cut into layers. And those eyes, I'll never forget were a sapphire blue, as they sparkle in the sun light while he looked at me as he took my breath away. Perfect lips that stretched and he gave me a smile, one as if he was planning something devious. Tall with a white shirt, black suite like jacket and black slacks with dress shoes.
He stood proud and confident as he called the group over to him. Chills went up and down my spine as I walked over to him. Speechless I stand next to him, staring in amazement at how beautiful this guy was. He looks down at me and says something in his sweet voice. I don't remember exactly what he said, but just as fast as he said it, he was as quick to leave.
I wake up with my heart pounding, my hands sweating, and me gasping for air and I look around for this magnificent creature, but of course he is nowhere to be found. Unsatisfied with my awakening and lack of finding my mysterious friend I realize I may never find him again.
I move my hair away from my eyes, I look up and see him, the most beautiful creature I have ever seen. Perfectly pale skin, white, medium length straight hair cut into layers. And those eyes, I'll never forget were a sapphire blue, as they sparkle in the sun light while he looked at me as he took my breath away. Perfect lips that stretched and he gave me a smile, one as if he was planning something devious. Tall with a white shirt, black suite like jacket and black slacks with dress shoes.
He stood proud and confident as he called the group over to him. Chills went up and down my spine as I walked over to him. Speechless I stand next to him, staring in amazement at how beautiful this guy was. He looks down at me and says something in his sweet voice. I don't remember exactly what he said, but just as fast as he said it, he was as quick to leave.
I wake up with my heart pounding, my hands sweating, and me gasping for air and I look around for this magnificent creature, but of course he is nowhere to be found. Unsatisfied with my awakening and lack of finding my mysterious friend I realize I may never find him again.
"Visiting Colima" by Anahi Sebastian
As Mexicana Airlines flight 3144 rapidly landed in Guadalajara Mexico airport, and I unbuckled my seatbelt, my nostrils inhaled the salty smell of the near ocean waves, something much more pleasing then my neighbors’ yucky armpits. I headed towards the taxi station with my purple over packed luggage full of goodies for my family, the desperate taxi drivers fought to get passengers, and without notice the driver instantly ingested me into his taxi, and drove me to Colima, my home.
As the four hour drive from Guadalajara to Colima along the crappie uneven roads turned into six, I sat in the uncomfortable gray torn back taxi seat. The scent of the conductors’ cigarette made me nauseous in the back taxi seat. Rolling down the squeaky window, I could perceive the love coming out of peoples cement houses, saw children fighting for a rusty bike, missing a wheel; A lady with her round honey basket over her dark brown hair, selling delicious Mexican pastries, a bundle of Coconuts in the palms scattered through out the city, and Fresh Shrimp, Lobster, fish and varieties of seafood sold in every mini market. My ears heard Noisy juice makers, dogs barking, chickens clucking, and women gossiping in sidewalks, as the beat of their broom created a melody, swoosh. swoosh. Swoosh.
I didn’t Realize I fell asleep until the sound of beeeeeep… beeeeeeep woke me up, from the aggressive drivers. As I saw soccer players in a nearby park with a water fountain, I realized I was almost home. I opened my black guess wallet and gave the taxi driver one hundred pesos; He parked beside my lime green house, between the two lemon trees that are along the sidewalk, and unloaded my luggage and zoomed away.
Once I saw my grandpas gray head over the black front gate, and his sweet smile aiming towards me, I felt I was where I belonged; I was home. The aroma of my grandmother yeyas homemade corn tortillas, pork tamales, chicken enchiladas and famous pozole led me towards her kitchen, Decorated with red apples and a picture of the last super above the rectangular kitchen table, filled with happiness and delicious food. My ten day visit back home had just begun.
As the four hour drive from Guadalajara to Colima along the crappie uneven roads turned into six, I sat in the uncomfortable gray torn back taxi seat. The scent of the conductors’ cigarette made me nauseous in the back taxi seat. Rolling down the squeaky window, I could perceive the love coming out of peoples cement houses, saw children fighting for a rusty bike, missing a wheel; A lady with her round honey basket over her dark brown hair, selling delicious Mexican pastries, a bundle of Coconuts in the palms scattered through out the city, and Fresh Shrimp, Lobster, fish and varieties of seafood sold in every mini market. My ears heard Noisy juice makers, dogs barking, chickens clucking, and women gossiping in sidewalks, as the beat of their broom created a melody, swoosh. swoosh. Swoosh.
I didn’t Realize I fell asleep until the sound of beeeeeep… beeeeeeep woke me up, from the aggressive drivers. As I saw soccer players in a nearby park with a water fountain, I realized I was almost home. I opened my black guess wallet and gave the taxi driver one hundred pesos; He parked beside my lime green house, between the two lemon trees that are along the sidewalk, and unloaded my luggage and zoomed away.
Once I saw my grandpas gray head over the black front gate, and his sweet smile aiming towards me, I felt I was where I belonged; I was home. The aroma of my grandmother yeyas homemade corn tortillas, pork tamales, chicken enchiladas and famous pozole led me towards her kitchen, Decorated with red apples and a picture of the last super above the rectangular kitchen table, filled with happiness and delicious food. My ten day visit back home had just begun.
"Fish Shopping" by Telechalb Blailes
Time is one of those things that we cannot control; it has a significant influence in planning, scheduling, enjoying, and just living our lives, even to the detail tasks we do everyday such as shopping at a grocery store. Shopping is time consuming and often the lack of time results in buying products that we do not carefully examine, and may be harmful to ourselves, especially children. This short writing briefly outlines some of the buying techniques when purchasing fish including some tips on cooking.
Most grocery seafood departments sell fish either fresh, frozen, or frozen and thaw out to approximately 32 deg. F, temperature before sale. Fresh fish expires after four days, but include one to three days of actual time most store display them, thus resulting a possible five to eight days before actual discard of the fish. When buying fresh fish, some of the external features you need to observe are the eyes, gills if not drawn, skin color and texture, and uniformity of the fins. The eyes should be clear and bulging, not sunken, or blurry. The gills should be naturally clean and brightly colored with no presence of slime or graying in gill’s fibers. The skin should be smooth, stiff, with unbroken scales and fins, shiny and damp to the touch. However, the ultimate test for fresh products is smelling the fish, ask the clerk if you can smell the fish, if it has a strong fishy odor almost like dirty socks, do not buy it. Sniff the inside cavity of the fish not the external body surface.
Frozen products have a shelf life of thirty days if it’s not vacuum packed, eighty-nine days if it’s vacuum packed. Frozen products must be destroyed after expiration date, but do seafood managers really discard them? Here’s a suggestion, if buying frozen product, ask the seafood clerk for items out of its shipping box, including fresh products too. There is a back stock of frozen or fresh items usually stored in the freezer room or the refrigerator, and they will get it for you if you ask nicely. Also choosing and working with a particular clerk for most of your transactions, this usually builds a relationship of trust and familiarity that definitely will benefit you.
Another important information about fish is their origin of harvest, this data indicates whether its wild caught or farmed raised. By law, the price sign for a fish product should show the place of origin of harvest indicating if it is a wild, farmed product of USA or a foreign country. There’s a long debate between the quality of wild caught and farmed raised fish, thus the topic will not be discussed here.
The basic rule for cooking fish is ten minutes per inch of thickness in cooking time. Depending on the intensity of cooking heat, thin fillets usually cooks within two to three minutes while thick steaks or fillets are between eight to twelve minutes to an internal temperature of 125F to 130F. For less time cooking, thin fillets such as sole or tilapia are appropriate, but be careful about overcooking which could results in dryness of the fillets. Thin fillets can easily be pan-fried, grilled, or baked with salt and pepper to your taste or other seasonings and used for sandwiched, tacos, or salads. Then with these modest suggestions, writer hopes you can lower your shopping time, but shop effectively and acquiring good products thus making more time for other things in your life such as family, volunteer services, etc. Oh, always remember this cardinal rule about food shopping; do not anger your server, he or she who serves or prepare your food.
Most grocery seafood departments sell fish either fresh, frozen, or frozen and thaw out to approximately 32 deg. F, temperature before sale. Fresh fish expires after four days, but include one to three days of actual time most store display them, thus resulting a possible five to eight days before actual discard of the fish. When buying fresh fish, some of the external features you need to observe are the eyes, gills if not drawn, skin color and texture, and uniformity of the fins. The eyes should be clear and bulging, not sunken, or blurry. The gills should be naturally clean and brightly colored with no presence of slime or graying in gill’s fibers. The skin should be smooth, stiff, with unbroken scales and fins, shiny and damp to the touch. However, the ultimate test for fresh products is smelling the fish, ask the clerk if you can smell the fish, if it has a strong fishy odor almost like dirty socks, do not buy it. Sniff the inside cavity of the fish not the external body surface.
Frozen products have a shelf life of thirty days if it’s not vacuum packed, eighty-nine days if it’s vacuum packed. Frozen products must be destroyed after expiration date, but do seafood managers really discard them? Here’s a suggestion, if buying frozen product, ask the seafood clerk for items out of its shipping box, including fresh products too. There is a back stock of frozen or fresh items usually stored in the freezer room or the refrigerator, and they will get it for you if you ask nicely. Also choosing and working with a particular clerk for most of your transactions, this usually builds a relationship of trust and familiarity that definitely will benefit you.
Another important information about fish is their origin of harvest, this data indicates whether its wild caught or farmed raised. By law, the price sign for a fish product should show the place of origin of harvest indicating if it is a wild, farmed product of USA or a foreign country. There’s a long debate between the quality of wild caught and farmed raised fish, thus the topic will not be discussed here.
The basic rule for cooking fish is ten minutes per inch of thickness in cooking time. Depending on the intensity of cooking heat, thin fillets usually cooks within two to three minutes while thick steaks or fillets are between eight to twelve minutes to an internal temperature of 125F to 130F. For less time cooking, thin fillets such as sole or tilapia are appropriate, but be careful about overcooking which could results in dryness of the fillets. Thin fillets can easily be pan-fried, grilled, or baked with salt and pepper to your taste or other seasonings and used for sandwiched, tacos, or salads. Then with these modest suggestions, writer hopes you can lower your shopping time, but shop effectively and acquiring good products thus making more time for other things in your life such as family, volunteer services, etc. Oh, always remember this cardinal rule about food shopping; do not anger your server, he or she who serves or prepare your food.
"The State of the Economy" by Marcus Starnes
I read somewhere that it is commonly stated that if we fail to learn from the past we are destined to repeat it. This statement proves to be true by looking at Americas’ history with recession, since 1980 America’s economy has been damaged about every 10 years. Let’s take a look at how the current state of the economy has affected America in some positive ways as well as some negative. First look is at the positives: lots of people have started gardens and compost heaps at their homes, having a garden saves you money at the store and having your own compost ensures that your garden will have good soil. You even notice more people riding bikes to work or schools in efforts to cut down on gas and as a bonus get themselves and their families in shape. Businesses have merged in efforts to stay in operation, and even some restaurants have offered discounted meals every other week, which helps families whose budget, is already under the strain of the economy.
Unfortunately there is a dark side that comes with the declining state of the economy, “suicide”; statistics suggest that the number of suicides has increased with the effects of the recession. “Depression”, another burden put on Americans due to the economy has in some cases caused people to abuse drugs whether prescribed or illegal. People that have been employed for years on their job now find themselves standing in the unemployment line with the possibility of receiving work for far less pay than before. Some 401k packages have been lost or used before intended. And when people aren’t working they have no way of keeping up with the bills, which has lead to foreclosure of homes which increases homelessness. One thing that is shocking is that the FBI reports that the violent crime rate is down for the third year in a row.
Positive or negative, the state of the economy has touched America in ways we never expected, but being the typical Americans, we feel like we can rise above anything, we have been trying to come up with ways to make dealing with hard times easier despite what we do to hurt ourselves.
Unfortunately there is a dark side that comes with the declining state of the economy, “suicide”; statistics suggest that the number of suicides has increased with the effects of the recession. “Depression”, another burden put on Americans due to the economy has in some cases caused people to abuse drugs whether prescribed or illegal. People that have been employed for years on their job now find themselves standing in the unemployment line with the possibility of receiving work for far less pay than before. Some 401k packages have been lost or used before intended. And when people aren’t working they have no way of keeping up with the bills, which has lead to foreclosure of homes which increases homelessness. One thing that is shocking is that the FBI reports that the violent crime rate is down for the third year in a row.
Positive or negative, the state of the economy has touched America in ways we never expected, but being the typical Americans, we feel like we can rise above anything, we have been trying to come up with ways to make dealing with hard times easier despite what we do to hurt ourselves.
"A Guy's Guide" by Roberto Chavez
Life’s greatest treasure is finding your one true love. So how do you begin on finding your second-heart? How will you take care of her once you found her? How will you make your soul mate feel like she is your only princess? Speaking for all the men, I will part valuable knowledge that I hope every guy will know. (If you are a guy that’s reading this, and if you are the type of guy that goes after gals for one reason and one reason only, I ask for you to please put down this paper, and walk away. This paper is only for the few good guys that still remain.)
For the single young men out there who believe that they’re going to die all alone in this world, take a second to realize that there is someone for everyone! Finding your true love begins with the first conversation. When you approach a gal, gather up all your confidence and kill all of your shyness, and let her know that you’re one of a kind. Instead of following someone else’s footsteps by saying “Hel…hello…um...what’s your name?” take a sweet but serious approach. Start off by saying a compliment. Avoid complimenting her about her hair or the shoes she’s wearing but rather compliment her on how pretty she’s looking today. Make eye contact and keep your composure. Let her know that you are true, honest man who is looking for someone to lean on. You’re looking for a close friend. That’s all. Remember, the golden thread that ties two hearts together is friendship.
Once you’re best of friends, increase your volume of togetherness. Think one of a kind. Provide her with compliments that will have a reply of “aw how cute”. Create lovely poems to her every once in a while. If you thinking of giving her a gift, give her a hand-made present. By giving her a hand-made present, such as a paper rose (origami), you’re folding in a message about how you are putting effort into the relationship. Keeping in mind one of a kind, think about how to ask your long awaited question, “Will you go out with me?” That, my friend, is all up to you. Best of luck.
Married men, I congratulate you for finding life’s greatest treasure but all can change in an instance. Never forget that. Men, in order to please your wife, you must first think like a wife. What kind of things would you like? What would please you? Answer those questions, and then do them for your wife. If it means providing her company to the beauty salon, you better make plans on going. When she asks for the simplest things, like taking out the trash, do it with a smile, even though you would like nothing better than to grunt and mumble under your breath. When you walking in public hand-in-hand, keep your eyes where they belong. If you see a super-model running down the street naked, look at nothing but the ground.
Following this guide is not full-proof; it has its own flaws. Remember, every gal is different. On the contrary, this guide is to help you create ideas on how to find and/or keep your treasure. For the single and for the married, I leave you with this; the journey will be rough, you will have your ups and downs, but like a best friend once told me, “Everything happens for a reason.”
For the single young men out there who believe that they’re going to die all alone in this world, take a second to realize that there is someone for everyone! Finding your true love begins with the first conversation. When you approach a gal, gather up all your confidence and kill all of your shyness, and let her know that you’re one of a kind. Instead of following someone else’s footsteps by saying “Hel…hello…um...what’s your name?” take a sweet but serious approach. Start off by saying a compliment. Avoid complimenting her about her hair or the shoes she’s wearing but rather compliment her on how pretty she’s looking today. Make eye contact and keep your composure. Let her know that you are true, honest man who is looking for someone to lean on. You’re looking for a close friend. That’s all. Remember, the golden thread that ties two hearts together is friendship.
Once you’re best of friends, increase your volume of togetherness. Think one of a kind. Provide her with compliments that will have a reply of “aw how cute”. Create lovely poems to her every once in a while. If you thinking of giving her a gift, give her a hand-made present. By giving her a hand-made present, such as a paper rose (origami), you’re folding in a message about how you are putting effort into the relationship. Keeping in mind one of a kind, think about how to ask your long awaited question, “Will you go out with me?” That, my friend, is all up to you. Best of luck.
Married men, I congratulate you for finding life’s greatest treasure but all can change in an instance. Never forget that. Men, in order to please your wife, you must first think like a wife. What kind of things would you like? What would please you? Answer those questions, and then do them for your wife. If it means providing her company to the beauty salon, you better make plans on going. When she asks for the simplest things, like taking out the trash, do it with a smile, even though you would like nothing better than to grunt and mumble under your breath. When you walking in public hand-in-hand, keep your eyes where they belong. If you see a super-model running down the street naked, look at nothing but the ground.
Following this guide is not full-proof; it has its own flaws. Remember, every gal is different. On the contrary, this guide is to help you create ideas on how to find and/or keep your treasure. For the single and for the married, I leave you with this; the journey will be rough, you will have your ups and downs, but like a best friend once told me, “Everything happens for a reason.”
"Always Prepared" by Katie McCusker
Being overly prepared is certainly my specialty. Not having something that I could possibly need in a thousand years freaks me out. This goes for everything from camping, traveling, parties or having a simple BBQ at the pool.
I’m not really sure where it comes from, but it’s probably something that my mom subconsciously passed onto me while preparing for family road trips as an impressionable child. I only started noticing this about myself a few years ago, the compulsion to always be prepared in any situation.
Going on simple trips never really ends up being very simple. You would think a two day camping trip would be easy enough to pack for, but not for me. I always over pack. The key to over packing is taking everything you would normally use at home, and tripling it.
For the most recent camping trip, I ended up with two large bags of belongings. Since camping can be quite unpredictable, it only makes sense to me that I would need this much stuff. The basics for each day, and then add more and more for every possible disaster.
What if I lost my sunglasses in the water? Well I would pack two extra. What if it did nothing but rain the whole time? I would need extra socks to change every few hours and extra dry sweaters. Just to rotate these items so I am not completely miserable and wet; makes me feel much better about going into the great outdoors.
Even when having a party or BBQ, I always make sure there is more than enough food to feed everyone. I always end up over buying for these functions. There is nothing worse than going to someone’s event starving and leaving the same way. It is my responsibility to make sure that my guests have a great and memorable time. Who would have a great time if they are starving, and the only thing they could remember is that I can’t even organize a simple BBQ and have enough food for everyone. The guest counting down the minutes till it is socially acceptable to leave and go ravage their refrigerator at home.
Although it can be a hassle and time consuming to do these things, in the end I am the one that is dry, happy and full. I am the way I am, and these little quirks make me that way. Without them I would be a boring, uninteresting person with nothing to offer the world.
I’m not really sure where it comes from, but it’s probably something that my mom subconsciously passed onto me while preparing for family road trips as an impressionable child. I only started noticing this about myself a few years ago, the compulsion to always be prepared in any situation.
Going on simple trips never really ends up being very simple. You would think a two day camping trip would be easy enough to pack for, but not for me. I always over pack. The key to over packing is taking everything you would normally use at home, and tripling it.
For the most recent camping trip, I ended up with two large bags of belongings. Since camping can be quite unpredictable, it only makes sense to me that I would need this much stuff. The basics for each day, and then add more and more for every possible disaster.
What if I lost my sunglasses in the water? Well I would pack two extra. What if it did nothing but rain the whole time? I would need extra socks to change every few hours and extra dry sweaters. Just to rotate these items so I am not completely miserable and wet; makes me feel much better about going into the great outdoors.
Even when having a party or BBQ, I always make sure there is more than enough food to feed everyone. I always end up over buying for these functions. There is nothing worse than going to someone’s event starving and leaving the same way. It is my responsibility to make sure that my guests have a great and memorable time. Who would have a great time if they are starving, and the only thing they could remember is that I can’t even organize a simple BBQ and have enough food for everyone. The guest counting down the minutes till it is socially acceptable to leave and go ravage their refrigerator at home.
Although it can be a hassle and time consuming to do these things, in the end I am the one that is dry, happy and full. I am the way I am, and these little quirks make me that way. Without them I would be a boring, uninteresting person with nothing to offer the world.
"My Special Place" by Jacqueline Mukandekezi
Everyone has a special place to go when days are getting cold. It is a place where you go when you are homesick or you are missing someone. A place you are alone surrounded by nothing but nature and listening to the wind as it blow in your ears like a whisper. Maybe the place reminds you of something or someone, you sit there and remember the ancient time and dream for the next day. Crescent Park is my special place. When I am there, I empty my mind and hear the fresh air as I remember the past and make new plans.
The Park has a hill that makes it so beautiful. When you reach the top of it, you have climbed the Kilimanjaro Mt, and it is as if you are standing on top of the world because the way you see the city. In addition, there is a gargantuan rock. I think it was brought here by a thunderstorm from another planet. In addition, as I sit there I can count the buildings of the city. I can see the beauty of west Colorado; it is so clear. In winter, it is white as an angel’s cloth. In other seasons, it looks like the world ends there. In the morning, fog covers the mountains as if it has were tacked to the sky. As I turn around to the east and south side, it looks so peaceful like a land with no sin, because of the beautiful luxurious homes of Lowry.
As I turn and look around from the top of that little hill, I can see down as if the park used to be a pool. Children are running and chasing each other from side to side, they seem to be happy. On the north side of the park, the BBQ’s place is nice and neat with tables in shades .They have drinking water from sinks across the BBQs. In summer, people wake up to set up the tables when birds began to sing. As I get closer to the play place, children are lovely to watch as they play and throw sand to each other as others take turns on the swing and slides. Their parents are getting to know each other, and those who already know each other are having a little chat about their kids.
There are many movements around here. On the east side, I can see dog owners training them; it also looks like a gym. For example, there are two couples doing push-ups and others are jumping rope. People are running and others on their bikes. It is also a sport field because the children are playing many different sports against their parents, soccer, football and more. However, some have forgotten it is a park. There are people who are taking a nap. It looks like they are at the seashore. There is group of people who are reading books and they seem to enjoy it more than more library.
As I stand on this little hill, I can see a little village everywhere I look. In addition, the reason I call it my special place is because there I see things I have not seen in days, and to see all this things reminds me of home. It is amazing because all these people are doing different things and how you study the city from both sides, it seems too busy, like one shop in a village.
The Park has a hill that makes it so beautiful. When you reach the top of it, you have climbed the Kilimanjaro Mt, and it is as if you are standing on top of the world because the way you see the city. In addition, there is a gargantuan rock. I think it was brought here by a thunderstorm from another planet. In addition, as I sit there I can count the buildings of the city. I can see the beauty of west Colorado; it is so clear. In winter, it is white as an angel’s cloth. In other seasons, it looks like the world ends there. In the morning, fog covers the mountains as if it has were tacked to the sky. As I turn around to the east and south side, it looks so peaceful like a land with no sin, because of the beautiful luxurious homes of Lowry.
As I turn and look around from the top of that little hill, I can see down as if the park used to be a pool. Children are running and chasing each other from side to side, they seem to be happy. On the north side of the park, the BBQ’s place is nice and neat with tables in shades .They have drinking water from sinks across the BBQs. In summer, people wake up to set up the tables when birds began to sing. As I get closer to the play place, children are lovely to watch as they play and throw sand to each other as others take turns on the swing and slides. Their parents are getting to know each other, and those who already know each other are having a little chat about their kids.
There are many movements around here. On the east side, I can see dog owners training them; it also looks like a gym. For example, there are two couples doing push-ups and others are jumping rope. People are running and others on their bikes. It is also a sport field because the children are playing many different sports against their parents, soccer, football and more. However, some have forgotten it is a park. There are people who are taking a nap. It looks like they are at the seashore. There is group of people who are reading books and they seem to enjoy it more than more library.
As I stand on this little hill, I can see a little village everywhere I look. In addition, the reason I call it my special place is because there I see things I have not seen in days, and to see all this things reminds me of home. It is amazing because all these people are doing different things and how you study the city from both sides, it seems too busy, like one shop in a village.
"A Mother's Thought" by Mariam Martin
Taking care of a child is not at all an easy task. It can actually be very difficult. I sometimes watch talk shows like Tyra Banks and Maury and wonder why the hell some teenage girls are adamant about having a baby. I’ve seen such episodes of girls as young as twelve whose whole lives depend upon having a baby and it just kills me. think about it, the world can be an ugly place and if you have no children can you imagine your whole life changing and having to worry about another life? Having to worry about what path your child may take in life? Hoping and praying for the best.
But none the less, not knowing. It’s not simple. At the end of the nine months it’s a proven fact that giving birth is a blessing and can sometimes be a curse I speak from personal experience. I am a mother of a two year old boy and after giving birth to my son my life ended as I knew it. If you do not have anyone to help you, nor guide you on your road to becoming a responsible parent, it all comes down to you making wise decisions. Being a young parent can get very depressing at certain points. From not knowing where you may go or where the next meal will come from, having to buy numerous items to make sure your baby is well cared for, being so young and naive that you may not even be able to get a job in order to provide. It can be this hectic. Most of these young women want the child but where are the fathers? How often is the feeling mutual?
Although these are obstacles that can be overcome, why not avoid putting themselves or their unborn child through these struggles? For instance, by waiting until their married, practicing safe sex, finishing school, getting a career for themselves that will help induce financial stability. Just simply by having morals and goals for themselves. I have no regrets and I love my son dearly but if I were to live life over again I would have waited a little longer. All I’m saying is for young ladies that have such a passion and desire for having a child without the knowledge of what comes with the responsibility, is to second guess their decisions. To think twice about what it is they really want whether its love or something else they yearn for. My advice would be to search for it elsewhere. Those are my thoughts.
But none the less, not knowing. It’s not simple. At the end of the nine months it’s a proven fact that giving birth is a blessing and can sometimes be a curse I speak from personal experience. I am a mother of a two year old boy and after giving birth to my son my life ended as I knew it. If you do not have anyone to help you, nor guide you on your road to becoming a responsible parent, it all comes down to you making wise decisions. Being a young parent can get very depressing at certain points. From not knowing where you may go or where the next meal will come from, having to buy numerous items to make sure your baby is well cared for, being so young and naive that you may not even be able to get a job in order to provide. It can be this hectic. Most of these young women want the child but where are the fathers? How often is the feeling mutual?
Although these are obstacles that can be overcome, why not avoid putting themselves or their unborn child through these struggles? For instance, by waiting until their married, practicing safe sex, finishing school, getting a career for themselves that will help induce financial stability. Just simply by having morals and goals for themselves. I have no regrets and I love my son dearly but if I were to live life over again I would have waited a little longer. All I’m saying is for young ladies that have such a passion and desire for having a child without the knowledge of what comes with the responsibility, is to second guess their decisions. To think twice about what it is they really want whether its love or something else they yearn for. My advice would be to search for it elsewhere. Those are my thoughts.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
July 27, 2010
I'll leave extra copies of the Stephen King handout in my mailbox in Room 312. Note, this is the temporary place where the mailboxes are while they are remodeling, so again, Rm. 312.
So sorry to those of you we did not get to class workshop today--it was a total bummer. You'll see the problem when you try to go to Rm 313--everything that should be in that office is now lining the hallway...
Be sure to read the great posts from Stephanie, Amanda and Ervin below! (After the portfolio information)
Also, don't forget that all extra credit/blog posts are due by Thursday! All lab hours must be finished this week!
Journal #15: Argue Your Grade
Go ahead and argue your grade for this class, giving all the different points why you think you should get a certain grade...or not.
So sorry to those of you we did not get to class workshop today--it was a total bummer. You'll see the problem when you try to go to Rm 313--everything that should be in that office is now lining the hallway...
Be sure to read the great posts from Stephanie, Amanda and Ervin below! (After the portfolio information)
Also, don't forget that all extra credit/blog posts are due by Thursday! All lab hours must be finished this week!
Journal #15: Argue Your Grade
Go ahead and argue your grade for this class, giving all the different points why you think you should get a certain grade...or not.
Final Portfolio Information
Your final portfolio will be a polished compilation of the work you’ve been doing this semester and a process paper. You’ll have a chance to workshop it with a colleague, but this portfolio should be error-free. I’ll expect you to use all formatting guidelines. Also, I’ll expect that each piece will have been revised again since I saw it last—I will be able to tell! Think of this as a final art exhibit of your work.
Cover Page
Your cover page should have the title of your final portfolio, your name, class number (090___), times, my name and YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS. I will give all portfolio comments by email unless specified otherwise. (If you want your portfolio returned to you, please give me a self-addressed stamped envelope with your portfolio.) Other than these specifications, feel free to be as creative as you like with your cover.
Table of Contents
Your table of contents page should have all your pieces listed by title and the corresponding page numbers.
Essays
Ideally you will include all four of your essays, revised and polished. (See length requirements)
Process Paper
This is a final essay that will either introduce or conclude your portfolio. You can take many different angles with this essay. It can either be an introduction to your pieces, talking about themes, inspirations, etc., as if you were the painter explaining your paintings at the exhibit. It could be a concluding piece, wrapping up your progress this semester, discussing where you began and where you ended up, etc. It could be a conclusion to your Creative Monster story, slaying the Creative Monster, yourself as a creative hero, etc. It could be a persuasive paper where you argue what grade you deserve in this class and why.
You can draw from any of the styles we’ve looked at this semester: descriptive, narrative, expository, argumentative. Examples could be:
Descriptive: Describe your process this semester, describe your pieces, etc, focusing on descriptive language, nouns, verbs, etc.
Narrative: Tell a story about your experiences with writing this semester, slay the creative monster story, etc.
Expository: Explain your essays to me and how they work together as an exhibit, explain your changing relationship to writing because of the semester, etc, Explain “How to____(pass this class, put together a portfolio, etc.)”
Argumentative: Argue what you believe your grade should be in this class and why, argue any other angle of this class, writing, etc.
Other specifics:
The Portfolio should be 8-10 page of your best work this semester including your process page but NOT including your cover page or TOC.
You may be as creative as you like as long as you adhere to my minimum requirements.
The portfolio doesn’t have to be professionally bound, but it must be stapled with page numbers.
The portfolio must be in my hand or in my mailbox in South Room 313 by 4:00 Thursday, August 5.(If for any reason the mailboxes aren't there, look in Rm 312.) I will NOT accept any portfolios after 4:00. I will NOT accept portfolios by email.
I will be in my office (South 230) during our regular class time on August 5 to collect portfolios and to consult with students.
Have fun!
~NS
Cover Page
Your cover page should have the title of your final portfolio, your name, class number (090___), times, my name and YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS. I will give all portfolio comments by email unless specified otherwise. (If you want your portfolio returned to you, please give me a self-addressed stamped envelope with your portfolio.) Other than these specifications, feel free to be as creative as you like with your cover.
Table of Contents
Your table of contents page should have all your pieces listed by title and the corresponding page numbers.
Essays
Ideally you will include all four of your essays, revised and polished. (See length requirements)
Process Paper
This is a final essay that will either introduce or conclude your portfolio. You can take many different angles with this essay. It can either be an introduction to your pieces, talking about themes, inspirations, etc., as if you were the painter explaining your paintings at the exhibit. It could be a concluding piece, wrapping up your progress this semester, discussing where you began and where you ended up, etc. It could be a conclusion to your Creative Monster story, slaying the Creative Monster, yourself as a creative hero, etc. It could be a persuasive paper where you argue what grade you deserve in this class and why.
You can draw from any of the styles we’ve looked at this semester: descriptive, narrative, expository, argumentative. Examples could be:
Descriptive: Describe your process this semester, describe your pieces, etc, focusing on descriptive language, nouns, verbs, etc.
Narrative: Tell a story about your experiences with writing this semester, slay the creative monster story, etc.
Expository: Explain your essays to me and how they work together as an exhibit, explain your changing relationship to writing because of the semester, etc, Explain “How to____(pass this class, put together a portfolio, etc.)”
Argumentative: Argue what you believe your grade should be in this class and why, argue any other angle of this class, writing, etc.
Other specifics:
The Portfolio should be 8-10 page of your best work this semester including your process page but NOT including your cover page or TOC.
You may be as creative as you like as long as you adhere to my minimum requirements.
The portfolio doesn’t have to be professionally bound, but it must be stapled with page numbers.
The portfolio must be in my hand or in my mailbox in South Room 313 by 4:00 Thursday, August 5.(If for any reason the mailboxes aren't there, look in Rm 312.) I will NOT accept any portfolios after 4:00. I will NOT accept portfolios by email.
I will be in my office (South 230) during our regular class time on August 5 to collect portfolios and to consult with students.
Have fun!
~NS
"My Touch Slide 3G" by Ervin Hutchinson
This is a review of my new My Touch slide 3G. I originally got into the android craze about a year ago when I traded my iPhone for a brand new G1 (two in fact). At first I didn’t want an android phone and was very happy with the IPhone but I was in a financial crisis and was offered two phones for the price of one an old G1 and a new G1 for which I sold the old one and kept the new one.
As I began to play with my new phone I started to realize that it had some of the same features as my IPhone so I began to take a liking to it. One year later here I am at part two of my android craze, the T-Mobile My Touch Slide. First let’s begin with the physical aspects of the phone I held it up to the IPhone 3GS and there almost identical in screen size, the rounded corners, and the button in the bottom middle of the phone. But one glaring difference between the two is that the My Touch as its new name suggests slides out to reveal a full comfortable QWERTY keyboard for all your texting needs.
As I began to look into the software portion of the phone the first thing I noticed was that you didn’t need a Google account to work the phone but you could set it up and use the email in the same way as the G1. The interface of the phone is pretty much the same as a Googel1 but it runs much smoother which was a problem before. It now comes with the ability of seven screen pages instead of three as with previous android model phones, with 4 already being used for agenda, weather, mail, and stocks but the other three are more than enough for all your apps.
The other main feature that stands out the most is the fact that it now comes with 8 GB of customizable memory, meaning that you could upgrade to 16, 20, or 32 GB at any time without having to get a whole new phone like you do with apple. Also the 5megapixel camera shoots excellent photos and video. In conclusion the phone is a very good alternative to the IPhone, it’s cheaper and you almost end up with all the same features except for video phone capabilities which android is working hard to include in there next update.
As I began to play with my new phone I started to realize that it had some of the same features as my IPhone so I began to take a liking to it. One year later here I am at part two of my android craze, the T-Mobile My Touch Slide. First let’s begin with the physical aspects of the phone I held it up to the IPhone 3GS and there almost identical in screen size, the rounded corners, and the button in the bottom middle of the phone. But one glaring difference between the two is that the My Touch as its new name suggests slides out to reveal a full comfortable QWERTY keyboard for all your texting needs.
As I began to look into the software portion of the phone the first thing I noticed was that you didn’t need a Google account to work the phone but you could set it up and use the email in the same way as the G1. The interface of the phone is pretty much the same as a Googel1 but it runs much smoother which was a problem before. It now comes with the ability of seven screen pages instead of three as with previous android model phones, with 4 already being used for agenda, weather, mail, and stocks but the other three are more than enough for all your apps.
The other main feature that stands out the most is the fact that it now comes with 8 GB of customizable memory, meaning that you could upgrade to 16, 20, or 32 GB at any time without having to get a whole new phone like you do with apple. Also the 5megapixel camera shoots excellent photos and video. In conclusion the phone is a very good alternative to the IPhone, it’s cheaper and you almost end up with all the same features except for video phone capabilities which android is working hard to include in there next update.
"My Side" by Amanda Hantover
I lied. I fucked up. He was sad, hurt and mad. I sat there in the hallway waiting to throw up. To vomit or bleed out right now would be ideal. Everyone would know that the lie affected me. The hospital would call him and he would know I didn’t mean it. Maybe even give me a do over. Being at school was the wrong place to do my whole self hating thing but I have never been too modest. And I definitely have a hard time separating appropriate from inappropriate. I lied and he knew it and all I had in my pocket was “sorry”. What am I going to do? Pull it out frayed and frizzled and pin it on his sleeve? Sorry was not going to be enough.
There is a place you keep your feelings, your love, your memories and today my heartache. For me, all these feeling’s sit in my chest. Their front door is my throat. They reside in my lungs and the for sale sign is posted in my eyes. They will leave me no forwarding address and right now they are changing the locks. The note they leave will read;
“Dear Amanda,
You did this to yourself. We are sick of your shit and won’t take it anymore. It’s been what it’s been. So long sweet girl”
Signed,
Feelings of the past and present.
The door opens for class and I sit down. “Today’s common noun is my heart and the proper noun is Adam” Enough said, I have got to get out of here. The professor tells us about our homework. I scribbled something illegible down in my note book and I’m out the door. I want to get home and give Adam my “sorry”. Hopefully he has an axe to break down the door in my throat.
I ride the light rail home. I walk up to the front door. Adam’s not home, he must be at work. I clean, smoke, open a beer and smoke some more. I just want to see him. Make sure its not moving day for his feelings. He walks in and kisses me. That’s a good sign right? He looks miserable. That’s a bad sign. We sit down outside. I reach in my pocket, pull out my “sorry” and hand it to him. He holds it, examining every detail. It’s not forged. He has been trained intensively in the field of fake Amanda apologies. He presses it to his lips and he swallows my “sorry”. At this moment I gasp for air and I feel something. I rub my chest. My feelings weren’t moving! That feeling had been my heart breaking.
There is a place you keep your feelings, your love, your memories and today my heartache. For me, all these feeling’s sit in my chest. Their front door is my throat. They reside in my lungs and the for sale sign is posted in my eyes. They will leave me no forwarding address and right now they are changing the locks. The note they leave will read;
“Dear Amanda,
You did this to yourself. We are sick of your shit and won’t take it anymore. It’s been what it’s been. So long sweet girl”
Signed,
Feelings of the past and present.
The door opens for class and I sit down. “Today’s common noun is my heart and the proper noun is Adam” Enough said, I have got to get out of here. The professor tells us about our homework. I scribbled something illegible down in my note book and I’m out the door. I want to get home and give Adam my “sorry”. Hopefully he has an axe to break down the door in my throat.
I ride the light rail home. I walk up to the front door. Adam’s not home, he must be at work. I clean, smoke, open a beer and smoke some more. I just want to see him. Make sure its not moving day for his feelings. He walks in and kisses me. That’s a good sign right? He looks miserable. That’s a bad sign. We sit down outside. I reach in my pocket, pull out my “sorry” and hand it to him. He holds it, examining every detail. It’s not forged. He has been trained intensively in the field of fake Amanda apologies. He presses it to his lips and he swallows my “sorry”. At this moment I gasp for air and I feel something. I rub my chest. My feelings weren’t moving! That feeling had been my heart breaking.
"Perfect Poverty" by Stephanie Morse
Living on the streets is never easy. You don’t know where your next meal is coming from. Nor do you know where you are going to rest your head. You don’t have a job so you have to be creative on how you get your money. You can also break the law to make your money. Street life can take its toll on your mind, body, and soul.
One way to eat is to go to feeding. Feeding is when you go to places to get free food.
Churches are the main source of feeding they have handouts at least three times a week at different times of the day. If you know the times and places you should never starve, however the food they serve is questionable at best. Another way to eat is to steel from stores. The food is better but you run the risk of going to jail for about a week. The food there is worse than church.
There are a lot of places you can sleep. Where you sleep has a lot to do with the weather.
If it is snowing you want to find some where there is cover like a cave. The Plate River has many of them to choose from. Another option you have, if you have the means is a tent. You have to find a place to set it up. The place has to be far enough away from people so they don’t call the police. If the police are called you have to pick up and move. You might have to leave everything behind and start over. That is something you get used to, it is more of a head ach then anything.
If it’s cold and you have little money you can pitch in with other people and get a room for a few days, then you can shower and sleep in a bed. Something most people take for granted.
You can also brake into an abandoned building. This is called squatting. If it is warm outside you can sleep where ever you know is safe.
As for making money there are a few ways to make it. You can spange. That is asking people for money. You can fly a sign. That is the same thing as begging for money, you just do it on an off ramp of a highway. You can also sell drugs to make your money. That is fast money and if you don’t do all your product you can make a decent living. That can also put you in jail for longer then a week.
Just not knowing where you will sleep and what you are going eat can take its toll on your body. You don’t have the nutrition you need to really be healthy. The stress takes its toll on your mind. Not really having true friends and trusting no one can weigh heavy on your soul. When you put mind uttering substances in your body it affects your body. You don’t eat and you don’t sleep. Not sleeping can make you crazy. Like seeing and hearing things that are not there. Drugs can put your soul into a black hole of nothingness.
Life on the streets is not something you choose it just happens to you. You simply do what you need to do to make it to tomorrow. This life is one of the hardest things to climb your way out of.. It is no way to live. If you make it off the streets you are one of the lucky ones.
One way to eat is to go to feeding. Feeding is when you go to places to get free food.
Churches are the main source of feeding they have handouts at least three times a week at different times of the day. If you know the times and places you should never starve, however the food they serve is questionable at best. Another way to eat is to steel from stores. The food is better but you run the risk of going to jail for about a week. The food there is worse than church.
There are a lot of places you can sleep. Where you sleep has a lot to do with the weather.
If it is snowing you want to find some where there is cover like a cave. The Plate River has many of them to choose from. Another option you have, if you have the means is a tent. You have to find a place to set it up. The place has to be far enough away from people so they don’t call the police. If the police are called you have to pick up and move. You might have to leave everything behind and start over. That is something you get used to, it is more of a head ach then anything.
If it’s cold and you have little money you can pitch in with other people and get a room for a few days, then you can shower and sleep in a bed. Something most people take for granted.
You can also brake into an abandoned building. This is called squatting. If it is warm outside you can sleep where ever you know is safe.
As for making money there are a few ways to make it. You can spange. That is asking people for money. You can fly a sign. That is the same thing as begging for money, you just do it on an off ramp of a highway. You can also sell drugs to make your money. That is fast money and if you don’t do all your product you can make a decent living. That can also put you in jail for longer then a week.
Just not knowing where you will sleep and what you are going eat can take its toll on your body. You don’t have the nutrition you need to really be healthy. The stress takes its toll on your mind. Not really having true friends and trusting no one can weigh heavy on your soul. When you put mind uttering substances in your body it affects your body. You don’t eat and you don’t sleep. Not sleeping can make you crazy. Like seeing and hearing things that are not there. Drugs can put your soul into a black hole of nothingness.
Life on the streets is not something you choose it just happens to you. You simply do what you need to do to make it to tomorrow. This life is one of the hardest things to climb your way out of.. It is no way to live. If you make it off the streets you are one of the lucky ones.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
July 20, 2010
Take a minute to read Nick Romero's essay and food review (yum!) below:
Don't forget: NO CLASS on July 22. Use the extra time to read "The Subject and the Predicate" in your Sin and Syntax book and write the rough draft of your Argumentative/Persuasive Essay. Don't forget to be prepared with four copies next Tuesday, July 27.
Here is some further discussion about A Modest Proposal from Wikipedia: click here
And here's another: click here Did you know that he published this anonymously as a pamplet?? Interesting...
Journal #14: A Popular Opinion and Why I Disagree
Think of an opinion held my many people that you disagree with. Write about the opinion and then how and why you disagree with it. Write for 10 minutes.
We also did an in-class exercise based on A Modest Proposal:
Using Jonathon Swift's example of a not-so-modest proposal, make your own modest proposal on how to solve a problem that you identify in a serious or not so serious way.
Don't forget: NO CLASS on July 22. Use the extra time to read "The Subject and the Predicate" in your Sin and Syntax book and write the rough draft of your Argumentative/Persuasive Essay. Don't forget to be prepared with four copies next Tuesday, July 27.
Here is some further discussion about A Modest Proposal from Wikipedia: click here
And here's another: click here Did you know that he published this anonymously as a pamplet?? Interesting...
Journal #14: A Popular Opinion and Why I Disagree
Think of an opinion held my many people that you disagree with. Write about the opinion and then how and why you disagree with it. Write for 10 minutes.
We also did an in-class exercise based on A Modest Proposal:
Using Jonathon Swift's example of a not-so-modest proposal, make your own modest proposal on how to solve a problem that you identify in a serious or not so serious way.
"Sushi Yum Yum" by Nick Romero
Many say sushi is for the brave, the fish lover, the advanced palette. It must be eaten with an open mind. Also, it depends on the place; some places make or break ones whole idea on sushi. I recently visited Sushi Sasa for my monthly craving of raw fish.
I have heard great things about the place, so I thought I would give it a try. It is a bit hard to locate. It sits on the corner of 15th and Platte, a place less visited by myself. The place is accompanied by a strip of other stores and restaurants. It fits in with everything when I give it a second look-over.
There is a nice feel to the place. It is contemporary, but very relaxed at the same time. It doesn’t smell of raw fish. The hostess, servers, and sushi chefs are all well kept and very pleasant. The area where I was seated was not too crammed but some seats looked as if they could be. The service was nice and timely. The server was quick with the refills of water, wine and any other request I had. He brought out the food as soon as it was ready.
The sushi itself was tasteful. The whole plate was very colorful and eye pleasing. The fish smelled fresh and the ingredients that accented the fish did as well. Every roll was tight as if rolled by a machine. Each roll had a burst of its own individual flavors. The salmon was the perfect temperature, the avocado was delicious, the shrimp tempura rolls had just the right crunch, the strawberry and eel combination was my favorite, even the basic California roll was a notch up from my previous en-counters.
Sushi Sasa is a place I would go again. It is not too pricy for the going rate of imported fish. The array of beers is a nice compliment to an already tasty main course. Their ideas are original and their roll selection is innovative. The ambiance and service is an overall delight. Sushi Sasa should be every sushi virgins . . . . first.
I have heard great things about the place, so I thought I would give it a try. It is a bit hard to locate. It sits on the corner of 15th and Platte, a place less visited by myself. The place is accompanied by a strip of other stores and restaurants. It fits in with everything when I give it a second look-over.
There is a nice feel to the place. It is contemporary, but very relaxed at the same time. It doesn’t smell of raw fish. The hostess, servers, and sushi chefs are all well kept and very pleasant. The area where I was seated was not too crammed but some seats looked as if they could be. The service was nice and timely. The server was quick with the refills of water, wine and any other request I had. He brought out the food as soon as it was ready.
The sushi itself was tasteful. The whole plate was very colorful and eye pleasing. The fish smelled fresh and the ingredients that accented the fish did as well. Every roll was tight as if rolled by a machine. Each roll had a burst of its own individual flavors. The salmon was the perfect temperature, the avocado was delicious, the shrimp tempura rolls had just the right crunch, the strawberry and eel combination was my favorite, even the basic California roll was a notch up from my previous en-counters.
Sushi Sasa is a place I would go again. It is not too pricy for the going rate of imported fish. The array of beers is a nice compliment to an already tasty main course. Their ideas are original and their roll selection is innovative. The ambiance and service is an overall delight. Sushi Sasa should be every sushi virgins . . . . first.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
July 15, 2010
I'm looking forward to reading all your expository essays. Don't forget that the new Argumentative/Persuasive Prompt is due Tuesday, July 20. Check the syllabus for more details on that.
Here is an electronic link to A Modest Proposal by Jonathan Swift. Don't let the old language trip you up--this essay will be sure to surprise you.
Journal #13: Something I Hate
We're now getting into argumentative essays, so we want to explore where your strong feelings reside. For this prompt I want you to write about something you really hate. It can be something large or something minute. Explore it and why you hate it for 10 minutes. Then Part Two of this journal is to come up with possible solutions to this problem--write for another 5 minutes.
Here is an electronic link to A Modest Proposal by Jonathan Swift. Don't let the old language trip you up--this essay will be sure to surprise you.
Journal #13: Something I Hate
We're now getting into argumentative essays, so we want to explore where your strong feelings reside. For this prompt I want you to write about something you really hate. It can be something large or something minute. Explore it and why you hate it for 10 minutes. Then Part Two of this journal is to come up with possible solutions to this problem--write for another 5 minutes.
"An Unforgotten Memory" by Christina Tran
The word death never occurred to me when I was a little girl. I used to think every human being would live until they grew old with wrinkly skin and lots of gray/white hair. Then one day everything changed.
On August 9th, 2004, my life took a big turn. It was a very nice day in the summer and I remember I was just hanging out at home. Usually everyday my Auntie Hi would come over but for some reason she never showed up that morning. Around noon, she called and told us she wasn’t coming because she didn’t feel good. We assumed she’d be ok if she got some rest but that was just our assumption. The thing with assumptions is, there’s always a chance you’re going to be wrong.
It was around 7pm when I was relaxing in the room, watching TV. Within five to ten minutes; possibly around 7:10ish, the phone rang.
“Hello,” I answered.
“Is your mom home?” my uncle asked in a panicked tone.
“Yes she is. Hold on,” I answered, “MOM!!! Uncle is on the phone. He wants to talk to you.”
“Hello,” my mom replied and within a few seconds my mom froze, “WHAT??? What the hell are you saying? What happened?” Before you know it he hung up on her.
“What happened?” I asked. She slowly looked up at me, my brother, and my Auntie Ngan and said, “Auntie Hi… she’s gone. Your uncle called and said she passed away. “
“NO!! That’s a lie! She’s still young. That’s not possible,” I said bursting into tears, “you’re lying!”
“Calm down,” Auntie Ngan said hugging me, “What happened? What else did he tell you?”
“I-I-I don’t know. He hung up on me,” her voice started to shake, “should I send someone to check since we don’t have a car?”
“Yeah. Call Hung and tell him to drive over there to let us know what’s going on since your brother-in-law is being an ass.”
Everyone waited patiently while my mom called her other brother.
“Hello? Hung? Hey go over to Chen’s house and check on Hi to see if she‘s ok. We got a call from Chen saying she’s dead. He didn’t say what happened; he basically hung up after yelling ‘she’s dead‘. I don’t know if it’s true or if it’s some kind of joke. We’re all worried so just go over there and check, please,” she said in tears.
Hours passed by and Uncle Hung and my grandma came home. They slowly looked up and from the look in their eyes, it was no lie.
“….She’s dead,” my grandma said.
I bursted into tears. All of our family members sat together that night in the living room. Everyone in our family arrived that night to support and comfort each other. Aunts, uncles and cousins were all there in tears; one hugging another, wiping their tears off their faces. We all sat together with our heads down, just talking about how wonderful she was and how they couldn’t believe she would be the first to pass away. I cried the most that night in my mom’s arms. My grandma seemed very bummed out and sad; she never would’ve thought her daughter would leave before she did.
“I’m sorry for what happened. Don’t be so hard on yourself. At least she left peacefully,” one of my aunts said trying to comfort my grandma.
The tears never stopped. It was past midnight and everyone decided to go home and get some rest. Everyone gave my grandma a hug and said, “We’ll all get through this together. Right now it’s late and you should get some rest, alright? Good night.” One by one they grabbed their belongings and headed for the door.
“Hey.. Don’t cry any more ok. Everything will be alright. I promise,” one of my uncles told me as he gave me a hug before he headed with the rest.
When everyone left, the room was empty. It was only my grandma, my parents, Uncle Hung, Auntie Ngan and me left in the living room. We stayed up really late that night and we only slept for a few hours including me. It was a day that can’t be forgotten.
My auntie was only 44 years old. We’re not sure how she passed away but I know she’s in a happier place. This whole tragedy changed my understanding of death. The truth was what we have today can be gone tomorrow. Death just happens. There’s not a certain age where you leave your loved ones. It’s just unpredictable.
She left peacefully on August 9th, 2004 and she will always be remembered
On August 9th, 2004, my life took a big turn. It was a very nice day in the summer and I remember I was just hanging out at home. Usually everyday my Auntie Hi would come over but for some reason she never showed up that morning. Around noon, she called and told us she wasn’t coming because she didn’t feel good. We assumed she’d be ok if she got some rest but that was just our assumption. The thing with assumptions is, there’s always a chance you’re going to be wrong.
It was around 7pm when I was relaxing in the room, watching TV. Within five to ten minutes; possibly around 7:10ish, the phone rang.
“Hello,” I answered.
“Is your mom home?” my uncle asked in a panicked tone.
“Yes she is. Hold on,” I answered, “MOM!!! Uncle is on the phone. He wants to talk to you.”
“Hello,” my mom replied and within a few seconds my mom froze, “WHAT??? What the hell are you saying? What happened?” Before you know it he hung up on her.
“What happened?” I asked. She slowly looked up at me, my brother, and my Auntie Ngan and said, “Auntie Hi… she’s gone. Your uncle called and said she passed away. “
“NO!! That’s a lie! She’s still young. That’s not possible,” I said bursting into tears, “you’re lying!”
“Calm down,” Auntie Ngan said hugging me, “What happened? What else did he tell you?”
“I-I-I don’t know. He hung up on me,” her voice started to shake, “should I send someone to check since we don’t have a car?”
“Yeah. Call Hung and tell him to drive over there to let us know what’s going on since your brother-in-law is being an ass.”
Everyone waited patiently while my mom called her other brother.
“Hello? Hung? Hey go over to Chen’s house and check on Hi to see if she‘s ok. We got a call from Chen saying she’s dead. He didn’t say what happened; he basically hung up after yelling ‘she’s dead‘. I don’t know if it’s true or if it’s some kind of joke. We’re all worried so just go over there and check, please,” she said in tears.
Hours passed by and Uncle Hung and my grandma came home. They slowly looked up and from the look in their eyes, it was no lie.
“….She’s dead,” my grandma said.
I bursted into tears. All of our family members sat together that night in the living room. Everyone in our family arrived that night to support and comfort each other. Aunts, uncles and cousins were all there in tears; one hugging another, wiping their tears off their faces. We all sat together with our heads down, just talking about how wonderful she was and how they couldn’t believe she would be the first to pass away. I cried the most that night in my mom’s arms. My grandma seemed very bummed out and sad; she never would’ve thought her daughter would leave before she did.
“I’m sorry for what happened. Don’t be so hard on yourself. At least she left peacefully,” one of my aunts said trying to comfort my grandma.
The tears never stopped. It was past midnight and everyone decided to go home and get some rest. Everyone gave my grandma a hug and said, “We’ll all get through this together. Right now it’s late and you should get some rest, alright? Good night.” One by one they grabbed their belongings and headed for the door.
“Hey.. Don’t cry any more ok. Everything will be alright. I promise,” one of my uncles told me as he gave me a hug before he headed with the rest.
When everyone left, the room was empty. It was only my grandma, my parents, Uncle Hung, Auntie Ngan and me left in the living room. We stayed up really late that night and we only slept for a few hours including me. It was a day that can’t be forgotten.
My auntie was only 44 years old. We’re not sure how she passed away but I know she’s in a happier place. This whole tragedy changed my understanding of death. The truth was what we have today can be gone tomorrow. Death just happens. There’s not a certain age where you leave your loved ones. It’s just unpredictable.
She left peacefully on August 9th, 2004 and she will always be remembered
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
July 13, 2010
Thanks to Marcus, Roy and Erv for letting us workshop their essays today! All final expository essays are due Thursday--don't forget to attach your workshopping.
As promised, here is a link to Martin Luther King Jr. "I Have a Dream" speech from August, 1963: click here
And here is more information about the Civil Rights Movement: click here
Journal #12: Fictional Expository
Pick a picture below (or if you want more pictures to choose from, you can also look at the post from June 29th). Now I want you to imagine yourself AS this person. Now ask yourself--what are they the expert on? Then write an expository prompt assuming their voice and their expertise. Write for 10 minutes.
As promised, here is a link to Martin Luther King Jr. "I Have a Dream" speech from August, 1963: click here
And here is more information about the Civil Rights Movement: click here
Journal #12: Fictional Expository
Pick a picture below (or if you want more pictures to choose from, you can also look at the post from June 29th). Now I want you to imagine yourself AS this person. Now ask yourself--what are they the expert on? Then write an expository prompt assuming their voice and their expertise. Write for 10 minutes.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
July 8, 2010
Great discussions in class today! Don't forget to bring four copies of your rough expository draft for Tuesday.
For more on cliches, here is the Cliche a Day blog
And here is today's Cliche:
Cliché: go belly up, to
Meaning: failure, bankruptcy, even death (example 1, example 2)
Rewrite 1: tank with the fishes
Rewrite 2: suffer a goldfish swirly
Rewrite 3: go all rigor mortise on us
Rewrite 4: time in the elephant burial grounds
Rewrite 5: headed for the hereafter
How would you twist this one? Send me (the cliche a day guy) a shout-out via Twitter: @a_copywriter
Journal #11: Instructions to your Body Double
Okay, imagine you are going out of town for a week to someplace fabulous. Imagine that you have hired a "body double" to live your life for you while you will be out of town. Write an instructional note to your body double explaining information they might need to know about being "you" for a week (how to deal with mother-in-law, how to avoid ex's phone calls, how to discipline the children, etc.) Write for 10 minutes.
For more on cliches, here is the Cliche a Day blog
And here is today's Cliche:
Cliché: go belly up, to
Meaning: failure, bankruptcy, even death (example 1, example 2)
Rewrite 1: tank with the fishes
Rewrite 2: suffer a goldfish swirly
Rewrite 3: go all rigor mortise on us
Rewrite 4: time in the elephant burial grounds
Rewrite 5: headed for the hereafter
How would you twist this one? Send me (the cliche a day guy) a shout-out via Twitter: @a_copywriter
Journal #11: Instructions to your Body Double
Okay, imagine you are going out of town for a week to someplace fabulous. Imagine that you have hired a "body double" to live your life for you while you will be out of town. Write an instructional note to your body double explaining information they might need to know about being "you" for a week (how to deal with mother-in-law, how to avoid ex's phone calls, how to discipline the children, etc.) Write for 10 minutes.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
July 6, 2010
Be sure to read Heather Grove's "McKenna" and all the other great posts below!
Expository Prompt due Thursday, July 8: See the syllabus for more description.
Also, be sure to have read the essays "Just Walk On By" and "Politics and the English Language" for Thursday...there COULD be a pop quiz (wink, wink). Here is an electronic link to Politics and the English Language.
Journal #10: More of your Expertise
We revisited your lists to see if there were other "expertise" you would add to them, knowing that being an expert at something is very broadly defined for our purposes. Pick another topic you haven't written about and write on that one for 10 minutes.
Expository Prompt due Thursday, July 8: See the syllabus for more description.
Also, be sure to have read the essays "Just Walk On By" and "Politics and the English Language" for Thursday...there COULD be a pop quiz (wink, wink). Here is an electronic link to Politics and the English Language.
Journal #10: More of your Expertise
We revisited your lists to see if there were other "expertise" you would add to them, knowing that being an expert at something is very broadly defined for our purposes. Pick another topic you haven't written about and write on that one for 10 minutes.
"McKenna" by Heather Grove
It was the fall of 2000, I was a senior in high school and couldn’t wait to graduate. I was captain of the cheerleading squad, dating Brandon, the captain of the football team. Life was good and my future was looking bright.
After homecoming, Brandon and I broke up and I found out I was pregnant less than a month later. In that moment, scared to death, abortion was the only option that crossed my mind. The next day, I called Planned Parenthood to schedule the abortion. The day of my appointment came and I had to cancel, I just couldn’t go through with it. I told Brandon and he was furious with my decision, but I knew it was my body, which meant it was my choice. The following day I found the courage to tell my mom and as suspected, she was devastated. I requested that she be the one to tell my dad. He was so upset that he ran away to his hometown in Wyoming for two weeks. He wouldn’t see or speak to me during this time.
When my parents were ready to discuss my circumstances, I told them I wanted to do what was best for the baby and give it up for adoption. They were hurt, but knew in the end it was my decision. They helped me pick out an adoption agency in Castle Rock. I chose an open adoption, which gave me the opportunity to receive updates on my child’s growth. At the agency, I attended weekly counseling sessions to address and cope with my feelings. Although I didn’t allow myself to develop a bond with the baby, I still wanted to do the best thing for it by delivering it and giving him or her to a loving home.
I spent two weeks looking through scrapbooks of potential parents and it came down to two couples, who were completely opposite. One of the couples was young and lived in the east coast, while the other was quite a bit older and lived in Colorado Springs. I chose to meet the older couple first at a restaurant in Castle Rock. Upon walking in, I saw Josanne; she was in a long dress, no makeup, and pale skin. She walked towards me and gave me a hug. After only a few minutes, I knew they were the ones I would choose to adopt my child. I didn’t even need to meet the other couple, as it was obvious how badly Josanne and Michael wanted children. Josanne informed me that she had lost triplets at twelve weeks and I could sense that they would be able to provide for and love my child. We continued to talk over the next few weeks and it became more apparent that she would be an incredible mother.
I went into labor a few days prior to graduation. Immediately upon being admitted to my hospital room, I requested pain medication. This wasn’t due to intense pain, but rather I wanted to be numb both physically and emotionally. To feel physical pain made me feel a connection with a child that would never be mine. With only my mother and hospital staff by my side I gave birth to McKenna. She was three and a half weeks premature. I held her for a few minutes before Josanne and Michael stepped in. I watched Josanne pick up my daughter, as tears fell down her face. In that moment I knew McKenna was no longer mine, I was just the oven.
I stayed in the hospital for the next two days, trying my best to stay detached. I knew I made the right decision for her. The adoptive parents would be able to give her a life I could only dream about. I left the hospital in a wheelchair with McKenna in my arms. Josanne strapped her into a car seat and I kissed her goodbye. I left in the back seat of my moms Honda and McKenna left in the back seat of Josanne and Michael’s van. I graduated from high school the next day.
Two weeks later I met Josanne and Michael at the courthouse and I signed over my parental rights to them. They changed her name to Grace and I wasn’t bothered by that because she was no longer mine to name, she was theirs.
There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t think of her and wonder what life would be like to see her every day. I know in my heart I made the right decision for Grace because she is with an amazing family, but it doesn’t make it any easier.
Grace is nine years old now and I get to see her a few times a year. While it is hard on both of us, she has asked that I be part of her life. I do my best to oblige as I certainly owe that to her.
After homecoming, Brandon and I broke up and I found out I was pregnant less than a month later. In that moment, scared to death, abortion was the only option that crossed my mind. The next day, I called Planned Parenthood to schedule the abortion. The day of my appointment came and I had to cancel, I just couldn’t go through with it. I told Brandon and he was furious with my decision, but I knew it was my body, which meant it was my choice. The following day I found the courage to tell my mom and as suspected, she was devastated. I requested that she be the one to tell my dad. He was so upset that he ran away to his hometown in Wyoming for two weeks. He wouldn’t see or speak to me during this time.
When my parents were ready to discuss my circumstances, I told them I wanted to do what was best for the baby and give it up for adoption. They were hurt, but knew in the end it was my decision. They helped me pick out an adoption agency in Castle Rock. I chose an open adoption, which gave me the opportunity to receive updates on my child’s growth. At the agency, I attended weekly counseling sessions to address and cope with my feelings. Although I didn’t allow myself to develop a bond with the baby, I still wanted to do the best thing for it by delivering it and giving him or her to a loving home.
I spent two weeks looking through scrapbooks of potential parents and it came down to two couples, who were completely opposite. One of the couples was young and lived in the east coast, while the other was quite a bit older and lived in Colorado Springs. I chose to meet the older couple first at a restaurant in Castle Rock. Upon walking in, I saw Josanne; she was in a long dress, no makeup, and pale skin. She walked towards me and gave me a hug. After only a few minutes, I knew they were the ones I would choose to adopt my child. I didn’t even need to meet the other couple, as it was obvious how badly Josanne and Michael wanted children. Josanne informed me that she had lost triplets at twelve weeks and I could sense that they would be able to provide for and love my child. We continued to talk over the next few weeks and it became more apparent that she would be an incredible mother.
I went into labor a few days prior to graduation. Immediately upon being admitted to my hospital room, I requested pain medication. This wasn’t due to intense pain, but rather I wanted to be numb both physically and emotionally. To feel physical pain made me feel a connection with a child that would never be mine. With only my mother and hospital staff by my side I gave birth to McKenna. She was three and a half weeks premature. I held her for a few minutes before Josanne and Michael stepped in. I watched Josanne pick up my daughter, as tears fell down her face. In that moment I knew McKenna was no longer mine, I was just the oven.
I stayed in the hospital for the next two days, trying my best to stay detached. I knew I made the right decision for her. The adoptive parents would be able to give her a life I could only dream about. I left the hospital in a wheelchair with McKenna in my arms. Josanne strapped her into a car seat and I kissed her goodbye. I left in the back seat of my moms Honda and McKenna left in the back seat of Josanne and Michael’s van. I graduated from high school the next day.
Two weeks later I met Josanne and Michael at the courthouse and I signed over my parental rights to them. They changed her name to Grace and I wasn’t bothered by that because she was no longer mine to name, she was theirs.
There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t think of her and wonder what life would be like to see her every day. I know in my heart I made the right decision for Grace because she is with an amazing family, but it doesn’t make it any easier.
Grace is nine years old now and I get to see her a few times a year. While it is hard on both of us, she has asked that I be part of her life. I do my best to oblige as I certainly owe that to her.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
"Pre-Sort Meeting" by Jesus Rodriquez
Adam: “Aw man, I so hung over right now. I don’t even want to be here. God damn I hate this job. What’s good fellas? What’s up with you lunchbox, why you all somber.”
Lunchbox: “What man, I can’t just sit in the corner and mind my own business and do my paper work? Maybe you should shut your mouth and get started on yours. And what the fuck are you laughing at Justin.”
“You guys are fucking funny.”
CJ: “Alright guys listen up. First off, safety tip for today is three points of contact. Especially you guys, how many times do you guys walk up and down the ladder with your clip boards in hand? So, let’s make sure we get our employees to use three points of contact at all times.”
“The volume today is 126,000. We got no BN trains coming in tonight.”
Adam: “Yeah right, you guys always say that and then around 9:30 the trains come rolling in and we get fucked without a kiss! Then we spend an extra 2 hours wrapping up because we sent people home not expecting the extra volume.”
“If I said there's no BN tonight I mean it.
Dave in the corner of the room pretends to sneeze making it sound like he said Bullshit.
Adam: Mmmmhuh.
“Also, we need to push production. If you got people not performing, send them home. For example Brian Baccares. This mutha fucka had 200 loaded packages in 5 hours last night. The standard is 250 pieces an hour. Send that guy home. There’s no reason we should allow people like that to steal money from us.”
”Justin, your staffing is seven, Zack your staffing is 4, Dave your staffing is six, Adam 4.
Adam: What! 4! How do you expect me to push 10,000 an hour with four people?
“If it gets heavy just man the fuck up.”
Adam: laughing. This is some bullshit.
“If anybody does not like it, there’s the door.”
“ One more thing fellas, make sure you get all your paper work in. I need position audits, trailer updates, JHA forms, and review your PCM’s with your people.”
“It’s only Monday so let’s get it done.”
“Keep your people moving, keep the floor clean and to be out of here by 11:00. Get it? Go.”
Lunchbox: “What man, I can’t just sit in the corner and mind my own business and do my paper work? Maybe you should shut your mouth and get started on yours. And what the fuck are you laughing at Justin.”
“You guys are fucking funny.”
CJ: “Alright guys listen up. First off, safety tip for today is three points of contact. Especially you guys, how many times do you guys walk up and down the ladder with your clip boards in hand? So, let’s make sure we get our employees to use three points of contact at all times.”
“The volume today is 126,000. We got no BN trains coming in tonight.”
Adam: “Yeah right, you guys always say that and then around 9:30 the trains come rolling in and we get fucked without a kiss! Then we spend an extra 2 hours wrapping up because we sent people home not expecting the extra volume.”
“If I said there's no BN tonight I mean it.
Dave in the corner of the room pretends to sneeze making it sound like he said Bullshit.
Adam: Mmmmhuh.
“Also, we need to push production. If you got people not performing, send them home. For example Brian Baccares. This mutha fucka had 200 loaded packages in 5 hours last night. The standard is 250 pieces an hour. Send that guy home. There’s no reason we should allow people like that to steal money from us.”
”Justin, your staffing is seven, Zack your staffing is 4, Dave your staffing is six, Adam 4.
Adam: What! 4! How do you expect me to push 10,000 an hour with four people?
“If it gets heavy just man the fuck up.”
Adam: laughing. This is some bullshit.
“If anybody does not like it, there’s the door.”
“ One more thing fellas, make sure you get all your paper work in. I need position audits, trailer updates, JHA forms, and review your PCM’s with your people.”
“It’s only Monday so let’s get it done.”
“Keep your people moving, keep the floor clean and to be out of here by 11:00. Get it? Go.”
July 1, 2010
I look forward to reading everyone's Narrative Essays over the weekend! Please see the syllabus changes below--they are the same ones we went over in class.
Don't forget to bring in a newspaper article for next class.
For those of you who missed my in class storytime, here is a link to The Artist's Way, a book and program for creative recovery. I read from "The Morning Pages" today, but it is an incredible book for anyone really serious about artistic recovery. Click here:
Journal #9: Your Expertise
First of all, brainstorm a list of all the things you are an "expert" on. These can be serious or funny, everything from being an expert on snowboarding to changing a diaper to evading your mother's phone calls. Whatever you feel like you have some authority to speak on, write it on the list. Then pick one thing to write about rrom that list and explore. Write for 10 mins.
Don't forget to bring in a newspaper article for next class.
For those of you who missed my in class storytime, here is a link to The Artist's Way, a book and program for creative recovery. I read from "The Morning Pages" today, but it is an incredible book for anyone really serious about artistic recovery. Click here:
Journal #9: Your Expertise
First of all, brainstorm a list of all the things you are an "expert" on. These can be serious or funny, everything from being an expert on snowboarding to changing a diaper to evading your mother's phone calls. Whatever you feel like you have some authority to speak on, write it on the list. Then pick one thing to write about rrom that list and explore. Write for 10 mins.
SYLLABUS CHANGES
Week Six: Expository Writing
Tuesday, 7/6: Discussion: “Adverbs” in Sin and Syntax
“I Want a Wife” by Judy Brady
“On Dumpster Diving” by Lars Eighner
Discussion: Lead Sentences
Journal #10: Expository
Please bring any newspaper article to class.
Take Home Expository Prompt: Read at least one newspaper article, paying attention to the style of journalistic writing: straight expository information answering the questions who, what, when, where, and how. Note the "lead" sentence format: who, what, when, where, and how all answered in the first sentence. Write a newspaper article about some event in your life this week or something you witness (I prefer something that just happened rather than something from the past). Give it a headline, lead sentence, etc. One page.
Thursday, 7/8: Turn in Expository Prompt in Proper Formatting
Journal #11: Expository
“Just Walk On By” by Brent Staples
“Politics and the English Language” by George Orwell
Discussion: Cliches and handout “How to slay a cliché”
Week Seven: Expository Writing/Persuasive Writing
*Tuesday, 7/13: Due: Rough Draft Expository with four copies
“I Have a Dream” by Martin Luther King, Jr.
Journal #12: Expository
Discussion: Rhythm/Sentence Fragments
In-class Workshop
All class workshop
Thursday, 7/15: Final Expository Essay Due with all attachments
Discussion of Persuasive Writing
“The Smurfette Principle” by Katha Politt
“Thoughts Interrupted” by Amy Joyce
Journal #13: Persuasive
Discussion: Five Paragraph Essays
Take Home Persuasive Prompt: Either listen in on or begin a controversial discussion. Then write a Point/Counterpoint. OR write a review of anything: a meal you ate, a movie you rented, a date you went on, an event you attended. The purpose here is to have a strong opinion and let that come through.
Week Eight: Persuasive Writing/Satire
Tuesday, 7/20: Discussion “Are the Homeless Crazy?” by Johathan Kozol, p. 154-157
“A Modest Proposal” by Jonathan Swift (handout)
Journal #14: Persuasive/Satire
*Thursday, 7/22: NO CLASS
Week Nine: Persuasive Writing/Final Portfolios
Tuesday, 7/27: Due: Persuasive Rough Draft with four copies
Discuss “The Subject and the Predicate” in Sin and Syntax
All class workshop
In class workshop
Journal #15: Process
Tuesday, 7/6: Discussion: “Adverbs” in Sin and Syntax
“I Want a Wife” by Judy Brady
“On Dumpster Diving” by Lars Eighner
Discussion: Lead Sentences
Journal #10: Expository
Please bring any newspaper article to class.
Take Home Expository Prompt: Read at least one newspaper article, paying attention to the style of journalistic writing: straight expository information answering the questions who, what, when, where, and how. Note the "lead" sentence format: who, what, when, where, and how all answered in the first sentence. Write a newspaper article about some event in your life this week or something you witness (I prefer something that just happened rather than something from the past). Give it a headline, lead sentence, etc. One page.
Thursday, 7/8: Turn in Expository Prompt in Proper Formatting
Journal #11: Expository
“Just Walk On By” by Brent Staples
“Politics and the English Language” by George Orwell
Discussion: Cliches and handout “How to slay a cliché”
Week Seven: Expository Writing/Persuasive Writing
*Tuesday, 7/13: Due: Rough Draft Expository with four copies
“I Have a Dream” by Martin Luther King, Jr.
Journal #12: Expository
Discussion: Rhythm/Sentence Fragments
In-class Workshop
All class workshop
Thursday, 7/15: Final Expository Essay Due with all attachments
Discussion of Persuasive Writing
“The Smurfette Principle” by Katha Politt
“Thoughts Interrupted” by Amy Joyce
Journal #13: Persuasive
Discussion: Five Paragraph Essays
Take Home Persuasive Prompt: Either listen in on or begin a controversial discussion. Then write a Point/Counterpoint. OR write a review of anything: a meal you ate, a movie you rented, a date you went on, an event you attended. The purpose here is to have a strong opinion and let that come through.
Week Eight: Persuasive Writing/Satire
Tuesday, 7/20: Discussion “Are the Homeless Crazy?” by Johathan Kozol, p. 154-157
“A Modest Proposal” by Jonathan Swift (handout)
Journal #14: Persuasive/Satire
*Thursday, 7/22: NO CLASS
Week Nine: Persuasive Writing/Final Portfolios
Tuesday, 7/27: Due: Persuasive Rough Draft with four copies
Discuss “The Subject and the Predicate” in Sin and Syntax
All class workshop
In class workshop
Journal #15: Process
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)