Hello from Atlanta!
I'm here until Wednesday visiting my cousins and today I went to visit this new exhibit that just opened on August 31st called "Dialog in the Dark". The premise of the exhibit is to demonstrate how much people rely on sight and how when sight is taken away, your other senses are maximized. Each person on the tour is fit with their own cane, yes, as in canes that most blind people use to navigate the world every day.
In the beginning, there is an audio clip that describes how little attention is paid to the world using 4 of the 5 senses. These 4 senses work in the world regardless of whether or not it is light out or not. Chocolate will taste like chocolate even in the dark, and a rose will smell like a rose in the dark. But sight... sight is the only sense that loses it's power when the lights go out. And when you think about, ever since man discovered fire he has been working to obliterate darkness and all the presumed dangers that go with it.
As the audio clip ends, the lights begin to dim and eventually the room is a pit of darkness and I couldn't even see my own hand in front of my face. Our tour guide walks in and guides us into the next room which is a forest. I feel a breeze, I hear the birds, and I cross a bridge I felt the water from a waterfall. The entire tour lasts us an hour and through each room we walked through, I learned how to "see" things with my hands, ears, and nose. The one that seemed most interesting was when we went through a supermarket because most foods I recognized by seeing them, took me nearly twice as long to recognize by feeling (this was the second room I think during the tour). The other was when we had to simulate walking across the street, which btw, is A LOT harder than it seems doing without sight.
Before the end of the tour was "Dialog in the Dark" where we sat in the dark, in a cafe and asked questions. Our tour guide, Darren, was actually blind. He was born 3 months premature and lost most of his eye sight from too much exposure to oxygen when he was placed in a incubator following his birth. Up until the age of 7, he could still read most things if they were in large print. But he had about 14 eye surgeries between the ages of 7 and 8, pretty much eliminating what little eyesight he had left.
The most interesting point Darren made, I thought, about being blind was that blindness itself is not the disability, but rather the fear of the unknown. And when you think about it, that's exactly what it's about. Most people who are blind can still live perfectly normal lives, but to those of us who can see, it's the thought that we don't know what's going on around us that's scary. It was an eye-opening (no pun intended) experience for me and if anyone visits Atlanta in the near future, please look into visiting this exhibit.
http://www.dialogue-in-the-dark.com/
Monday, September 29, 2008
Saturday, September 27, 2008
I need a stress ball
I've been stressed out. I envy those who have free time during the week.
The stress from the end of junior year has carried on to the beginning of this year. Usually the first couple months are chill...but SURPRISE SURPRISE! Senior year just makes me want to curl up in a ball sometimes. There's something weighing me down right now. And I'm a petite person, so I don't know how much more I can take.
Sometimes, I don't like to vent publicly, because I don't really like it when I complain...I put myself in this situation anyways, so I shouldn't even be complaining....but now I can't even help but let it all out.
It's academics, as well as my social life...I won't go into detail, but geez people need to grow up.
Does anyone else feel NOT excited for Homecoming? I could really care less at this point.
Honestly, all I really want to do is finish my college applications and have all that stress go away.
The stress from the end of junior year has carried on to the beginning of this year. Usually the first couple months are chill...but SURPRISE SURPRISE! Senior year just makes me want to curl up in a ball sometimes. There's something weighing me down right now. And I'm a petite person, so I don't know how much more I can take.
Sometimes, I don't like to vent publicly, because I don't really like it when I complain...I put myself in this situation anyways, so I shouldn't even be complaining....but now I can't even help but let it all out.
It's academics, as well as my social life...I won't go into detail, but geez people need to grow up.
Does anyone else feel NOT excited for Homecoming? I could really care less at this point.
Honestly, all I really want to do is finish my college applications and have all that stress go away.
Friday, September 26, 2008
SAT Stress
The SAT's are coming up really soon, but it seems like the advertising is going poorly. I think there is a lot of confusion as to when the SAT's are going to be held, aside from the PSAT's and the ACT's. This is very frusterating for those planning to take the upcoming SAT test like me and my friends. Senior's this year have until December to get their final scores in, but Juniors are just beginning the process. From everything that I've heard, the SAT's are very difficult, long and that the workshops are very helpful. Depending on whick college your applying to, depends on how many tests you need to take. If your applying to a UC college, I believe you have to take either the SAT's or ACT's and 2 SAT subject tests. Sounds like a lot of work... Im very stressed to take the tests especially beacuse I feel so unprepared. Maybe by taking a few prep classes will ease that stress.
Rocklin High School Football
The football season has started. It is definitely my favorite time of the year. The first game against Oakridge went well we came out on top with a victory. However, the game up at Nevada Union didn't exactly go as planned. The Thunder fought right until the end, but there were a few rough patches of the game. Starting quarterback, Tiger Sorenson, hurt his collarbone and now is out for 3-4 weeks. The second string quarterback, Garth Keffer, however, just couldn't handle the pressure to keep the Thunder in the lead. The Varsity coaching staff decided they needed a new fresh face to keep the Thunder going. They pulled up sophomore, Jimmy Laughrea, the JV quarterback, to help the Thunder in their further season victories. He's young, but he's well prepared. He transferred to Rocklin this year from rival school Granite Bay High. He's really athletic and the coaches have confidence in him that he will succeed. The older boys are happy to have him on the team. He will start his Varsity season tonight at the game at Las Lomas High School. Hopefully, it will go well and we will come home with a victory.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
A Change of Heart
Let me start off by saying that I've never been a big fan of poetry. It's not that I hated it or anything, but I've just never been compelled to read poetry on my own accord and not for some school assignment. Yet, lately, within the past few months, I find myself being more and more attracted to poetry and not just reading it, but writing it as well.
When I was younger, the reason I was turned off by poetry was the lack of structure. With my short stories I knew the drill: characters, basic plot. But with poetry there didn't seem to be any hard and fast rule and what to write or how to write it. And that annoyed me. I didn't think I was capable of writing a "good poem". That's beginning to change.
In AP English, we've recently started our poetry unit. I groaned and rolled my eyes, but after the exercises on the first day I realized something big.
Our first poem was taking the phrases "I need..." and "I've had enough..." repetitively and filling in the sentences as we so desired. I tried it out and I realized how insightful it was to take 2 simple phrases but manifest what exactly it was I was feeling.
Last night I decided to try writing that poem again as a way to release all the stress and tension I was taking. Surprise! It helped a lot. It was something so incredibly simple, yet it's impact on my emotional sanity. I'm slowly learning (Ms. Padilla would be proud) the magic behind poetry, the great appeal and draw that it's had for so many people.
I found a small book of Jack Kerouac haikus a while back. I'll leave it with you as it has now become one my favorite poems. I've never forgotten it, simply because of how random it is. It was one my first eye opening realizations that poetry can truly be about anything.
"Bee, why are you
staring at me?
I am not a flower"
-Jack Kerouac
When I was younger, the reason I was turned off by poetry was the lack of structure. With my short stories I knew the drill: characters, basic plot. But with poetry there didn't seem to be any hard and fast rule and what to write or how to write it. And that annoyed me. I didn't think I was capable of writing a "good poem". That's beginning to change.
In AP English, we've recently started our poetry unit. I groaned and rolled my eyes, but after the exercises on the first day I realized something big.
Our first poem was taking the phrases "I need..." and "I've had enough..." repetitively and filling in the sentences as we so desired. I tried it out and I realized how insightful it was to take 2 simple phrases but manifest what exactly it was I was feeling.
Last night I decided to try writing that poem again as a way to release all the stress and tension I was taking. Surprise! It helped a lot. It was something so incredibly simple, yet it's impact on my emotional sanity. I'm slowly learning (Ms. Padilla would be proud) the magic behind poetry, the great appeal and draw that it's had for so many people.
I found a small book of Jack Kerouac haikus a while back. I'll leave it with you as it has now become one my favorite poems. I've never forgotten it, simply because of how random it is. It was one my first eye opening realizations that poetry can truly be about anything.
"Bee, why are you
staring at me?
I am not a flower"
-Jack Kerouac
Full Shopping Carts
Depression in America. What is the cause for the apparent recent increases? And are they really all that recent?
it is my belief that the depression comes form an "empty feeling" many Americans are experiencing. In "The Feminine Mystique" Betty Friedan describes this feeling of emptiness as a common ailment in the housewives of the 50's. The 1950's was a time of advertisement!!! NEW NEW NEW! Shop Till You Drop! Housewives bought more and more knickknacks for the home- keeping themselves busy. Friedan gives ridiculous statistics showing how truly unfulfilled the average housewife was. There are countless quotes, articles, diary entries as well as actual numbers. (this is in no way against housewives, I'm just getting to my point). Today, although we may not realize it, we are still affected by the 50's. American men and women are constantly pressured to buy. Shopping is still a women stereotype (and many commercials for the cooking and cleaning are still aimed towards them). And the 50's also left behind the feeling of emptiness. I watched a more current Documentary on America (several had this point in fact) and they all describe this 'mysterious depression". It is my opinion that we need to look to the past to find the answers of today. So, looking at the 50's, we can see that perhaps this ailment is caused by a lack of fulfillment in daily lives. Are we doing anything individually that is important to our community? The world? No, most people really are not (in my opinion). And to fill that emptiness of something meaningful, we do what is now becoming an American tradition. WE SHOP. We buy all the right outfits, home appliances, more crap that we don't need. More more and more. Because boy have they "GOT A BARGAIN FOR YOU" and because you "Need this new pair of shoes". Maybe pulling the latest fashion over your head isn't going to make this feeling go away.
Maybe what each of us needs is a cause. Something meaningful. So that at the end of the day we aren't restless, we feel complete.
it is my belief that the depression comes form an "empty feeling" many Americans are experiencing. In "The Feminine Mystique" Betty Friedan describes this feeling of emptiness as a common ailment in the housewives of the 50's. The 1950's was a time of advertisement!!! NEW NEW NEW! Shop Till You Drop! Housewives bought more and more knickknacks for the home- keeping themselves busy. Friedan gives ridiculous statistics showing how truly unfulfilled the average housewife was. There are countless quotes, articles, diary entries as well as actual numbers. (this is in no way against housewives, I'm just getting to my point). Today, although we may not realize it, we are still affected by the 50's. American men and women are constantly pressured to buy. Shopping is still a women stereotype (and many commercials for the cooking and cleaning are still aimed towards them). And the 50's also left behind the feeling of emptiness. I watched a more current Documentary on America (several had this point in fact) and they all describe this 'mysterious depression". It is my opinion that we need to look to the past to find the answers of today. So, looking at the 50's, we can see that perhaps this ailment is caused by a lack of fulfillment in daily lives. Are we doing anything individually that is important to our community? The world? No, most people really are not (in my opinion). And to fill that emptiness of something meaningful, we do what is now becoming an American tradition. WE SHOP. We buy all the right outfits, home appliances, more crap that we don't need. More more and more. Because boy have they "GOT A BARGAIN FOR YOU" and because you "Need this new pair of shoes". Maybe pulling the latest fashion over your head isn't going to make this feeling go away.
Maybe what each of us needs is a cause. Something meaningful. So that at the end of the day we aren't restless, we feel complete.
See You at the Pole
This morning was See You at the Pole. See You at the Pole is a day, specifically morning, where students across the nation go onto their campus before school and pray for the nation at their flag pole.The event is completely student led although several adults do typically attend to pray with the students.
Last week See You at the Pole announcements were put in our morning anouncements and posters were hung around the school. Students of One, the Christian club, are also wearing braceltets as a way to remind themselves and others of the event. Wearing something ie clothing, pins, stickers, and bracelets about something that you personally believe in and/or agree with always starts good conversations.
Personally I love this opportunity for the students of our nation to come together in prayer. I believe that this event should not only be marked as religious, but also as a demonstration of the many freedoms we have in our nation.
Last week See You at the Pole announcements were put in our morning anouncements and posters were hung around the school. Students of One, the Christian club, are also wearing braceltets as a way to remind themselves and others of the event. Wearing something ie clothing, pins, stickers, and bracelets about something that you personally believe in and/or agree with always starts good conversations.
Personally I love this opportunity for the students of our nation to come together in prayer. I believe that this event should not only be marked as religious, but also as a demonstration of the many freedoms we have in our nation.
Here it comes... Seniors, brace yourselves.
On October 1st (next Wednesday) the California State University officially opens its application filing period for Fall Semester 2009.
That means any Senior at RHS this year who plans on attending a CSU after they graduate will need to apply. They will need to decide on the campuses they want to apply to, fill out a rather lengthy application (which cannot be changed AT ALL once the 'submit' button has been hit), and pay all the application fees (different for each separate campus).
The decisions need to be made. The time for keeping with the high school mentality is running out, as if through a sifter: choices that will affect the rest of our lives are going to be made.
That's right: it's here. Another month, November 1st, and the University of California filing period opens as well.
All this painfully slow K-12 education is wrapping up, folks. We can feel the end, see the light of freedom and adulthood approaching in the ever-shortening distance.
Only a little while, and we'll be walking off that stage with those flimsy-looking blue robes draped over us, diplomas clutched in our sweaty hands--walking away from RHS to embark on the rest of our lives.
The only time most of these people will ever return is for the reunions.
Will the world become bigger? When the trivial barriers and social statuses of high school begin to melt away - will we all become more accommodating and aware?
When all of a sudden, real life is sprung upon us; will the majority of the materialistic, gossipy young adults here get their heads out of their butts?
I sure hope so.
We're headed out of this make-believe microcosm of a world, into the real one. Some of us, I know, are more than ready. Some may feel like they're ready, but really have no idea of the responsibility it will entail. Others wish to remain here, in the world of children: where we all get second, third and even fourth chances at everything; adults are here to monitor and guide our every move; and we have (mostly) unlimited financal support. What these Peter Pans don't realize, however, is that their financial support will taper off as they move into their independent days; they will be given the freedom to make their own decisions, but will ultimately have to deal with the consequences.
We are growing up, whether we like it or not.
This first college application filing period, I think, signifies the first event of our new lives. Our lives will slowly change, though... this last year in high school allowing the transition time that will grow us into the adults of this state, of this country and world.
Mental preparation, it might be called.
So whether the transition will be forced or natural, it must happen. Hang on for the ride, Seniors. Get ready to live.
That means any Senior at RHS this year who plans on attending a CSU after they graduate will need to apply. They will need to decide on the campuses they want to apply to, fill out a rather lengthy application (which cannot be changed AT ALL once the 'submit' button has been hit), and pay all the application fees (different for each separate campus).
The decisions need to be made. The time for keeping with the high school mentality is running out, as if through a sifter: choices that will affect the rest of our lives are going to be made.
That's right: it's here. Another month, November 1st, and the University of California filing period opens as well.
All this painfully slow K-12 education is wrapping up, folks. We can feel the end, see the light of freedom and adulthood approaching in the ever-shortening distance.
Only a little while, and we'll be walking off that stage with those flimsy-looking blue robes draped over us, diplomas clutched in our sweaty hands--walking away from RHS to embark on the rest of our lives.
The only time most of these people will ever return is for the reunions.
Will the world become bigger? When the trivial barriers and social statuses of high school begin to melt away - will we all become more accommodating and aware?
When all of a sudden, real life is sprung upon us; will the majority of the materialistic, gossipy young adults here get their heads out of their butts?
I sure hope so.
We're headed out of this make-believe microcosm of a world, into the real one. Some of us, I know, are more than ready. Some may feel like they're ready, but really have no idea of the responsibility it will entail. Others wish to remain here, in the world of children: where we all get second, third and even fourth chances at everything; adults are here to monitor and guide our every move; and we have (mostly) unlimited financal support. What these Peter Pans don't realize, however, is that their financial support will taper off as they move into their independent days; they will be given the freedom to make their own decisions, but will ultimately have to deal with the consequences.
We are growing up, whether we like it or not.
This first college application filing period, I think, signifies the first event of our new lives. Our lives will slowly change, though... this last year in high school allowing the transition time that will grow us into the adults of this state, of this country and world.
Mental preparation, it might be called.
So whether the transition will be forced or natural, it must happen. Hang on for the ride, Seniors. Get ready to live.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Travelling
One thing I really want to do once I turn 18 years old is travel. I have never been to Europe, or anywhere else outside of the country. I have heard about all of the beautiful sights of places like Italy, England, and France and it just seems like a whole other world outside of California. I would love to go to Spain or Mexico, because I can practice my Spanish more, now that I'm in Spanish 4, and observe all of their unique cultures and ways of life. It would be so awesome to visit Germany and Greece, because that is where my ancestors came from and the basis of my ethnicity. Because I enjoy being in the sun, the Carribean seems like a place I would really enjoy. Hopefully soon I will have the opportunity to travel outside of the US and learn more about other cultures.
30 seconds
Texting.
We all know it and love it. Parents argue that its a development the world could have got along without just fine, and seem to think it hinders any and all activities, but it's really a relief to some of us. We all have that one person in our lives that we may not particularly want to talk directly over the phone with because maybe he or she is a little too chatty, or possibly they're just not very personable, though this does not make them a bad person. Sometimes if you're in a pinch and need that one little bit of information like an address before you leave the house, or the login for an academic website you've forgotten and you know this one person would absolutely know it but you dont have the time to talk - you text. Saves time and stress.
And honestly, the parental argument, that I personally get all the time, doesn't fly. They say calling and talking to the person is faster, which in these cases - it's not. It takes 30 seconds.
The problem comes when the person is continually on their phone, texting one or multiple people about pointless, time-wasting things, which in turn takes time away from the important things like homework or actual work. Also easily distracting people during school hours, which is just plain rediculous because you'll be seeing that person at break and/or lunch and/or after school. Now I'm not saying "turn them off on campus", because I'm not Mrs. Knox, but it's just hard to justify texting your friend(s) who are also RHS students during the same time they're at school with you...I'm just sayin'. Texting in school also takes a lot longer, in my opinion, because you have to take the time to analyse and anticipate when the teacher won't be looking for a long enough period of time that will allow you to type a reasonable bit of information. Then you have to repeat this process multiple times just to be able to type two lines, at the risk of getting caught, and losing your phone. That is, unless, you're the person that is so in tune with your phone that you're able to text without looking at it - this is not me.
In any sense, my point is that texting, when necessary, is extremely useful and a stress-saver for some, and does not always save time compared to just calling the person, unless you're addicted to it to the point where it takes up too much time and distracts you from other things more worth while.
We all know it and love it. Parents argue that its a development the world could have got along without just fine, and seem to think it hinders any and all activities, but it's really a relief to some of us. We all have that one person in our lives that we may not particularly want to talk directly over the phone with because maybe he or she is a little too chatty, or possibly they're just not very personable, though this does not make them a bad person. Sometimes if you're in a pinch and need that one little bit of information like an address before you leave the house, or the login for an academic website you've forgotten and you know this one person would absolutely know it but you dont have the time to talk - you text. Saves time and stress.
And honestly, the parental argument, that I personally get all the time, doesn't fly. They say calling and talking to the person is faster, which in these cases - it's not. It takes 30 seconds.
The problem comes when the person is continually on their phone, texting one or multiple people about pointless, time-wasting things, which in turn takes time away from the important things like homework or actual work. Also easily distracting people during school hours, which is just plain rediculous because you'll be seeing that person at break and/or lunch and/or after school. Now I'm not saying "turn them off on campus", because I'm not Mrs. Knox, but it's just hard to justify texting your friend(s) who are also RHS students during the same time they're at school with you...I'm just sayin'. Texting in school also takes a lot longer, in my opinion, because you have to take the time to analyse and anticipate when the teacher won't be looking for a long enough period of time that will allow you to type a reasonable bit of information. Then you have to repeat this process multiple times just to be able to type two lines, at the risk of getting caught, and losing your phone. That is, unless, you're the person that is so in tune with your phone that you're able to text without looking at it - this is not me.
In any sense, my point is that texting, when necessary, is extremely useful and a stress-saver for some, and does not always save time compared to just calling the person, unless you're addicted to it to the point where it takes up too much time and distracts you from other things more worth while.
Mad Stress
So I've come to the conclusion that school is way too stressful. And being a senior sucks. I have no idea where I'm going or what I'm doing in my life and I feel as if I'm being shoved into a decision I'm not nearly prepared to make. I want to go to college, I want to get a good education, I just have no idea what college will make me happiest. And even if I knew a school that I'd be happiest at who's to say I'll even get in? I only have a 3.6 and an SAT score that is... lacking in comparison to friend's scores. Where do I even have a chance? I have no idea. All I know is that in the next month I have to take the SAT subject tests, the SAT's, and the ACT's. I also have to decide on seven reasonable schools to apply to and start applying. And the thought of that is more than a little overwhelming. Can't I just skip straight to April and start getting acceptance letters? I haven't even started applications and I'm already tired of it.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
it is proven
It seems to be a sure thing that nearly everyone in our generation is opposed to the basic educational values. We are being driven by a society feuled on television and the internet. And, unfortunately this means that we have less encouragement to read or write, for entertainment, because easy entertainment is just a remote click away.
I know that i enjoy reading, but a few people doesnt mean much when the entire generation is missing the beat. Im sure some of you can agree with me that youre worried. In class a few weeks ago, my english teacher asked us to write about whether or not we thought reading was important. Nearly everyone that answered the question stated, with what they thought was reasonable evidence, that reading was no longer important to society. Wow.
I urge all of you to go and watch the movie 'Idiocracy' and realize exactly why youre education is so important.
I know that i enjoy reading, but a few people doesnt mean much when the entire generation is missing the beat. Im sure some of you can agree with me that youre worried. In class a few weeks ago, my english teacher asked us to write about whether or not we thought reading was important. Nearly everyone that answered the question stated, with what they thought was reasonable evidence, that reading was no longer important to society. Wow.
I urge all of you to go and watch the movie 'Idiocracy' and realize exactly why youre education is so important.
False Info.
So I was just on the RHS website, and I noticed the banner at the top that was promoting girl's golf. It's a picture of someone golfing, and at the bottom it said "Come out and watch them play!" YOU CAN'T DO THAT. People can't come out and watch us play. That's not possible. I hate how our website never gives the right information. Not only the website either...it's just the school in general. Like my friend thought the board meeting for the SATS was yesterday morning, not evening. People are never given the right information, ever. I always here about how confused people are, and how they don't know what to about something, or how to do it. I really think the school administration needs to work on making sure students and teachers are properly informed about things going on at school.
113 Candles
It's no ordinary day for Tomoji Tanabe of southern Japan. Today, Thursday, marks his 113th birthday.
Guiness Book of World Records recorded Tanabe as the world's oldest man last year. He hopes to only update the record. "He says he wants to live for another 10 years, that he doesn't want to die."
Statistics demonstrate Japanese top the world's population in amount of longest-living people. As of last week, the government counted 36, 267 Japanese citizens over the age of 100.
What's his secret to living a long life? Tanabe drinks milk everyday,eats lots- mostly vegatbles and believes a diet devoid of alcohol contributes to his great health. Currently, he has no major disease. Maybe the greatest secret is another aspect- his persepctive on life.
"I'm happy," Tanabe says. Happiness just may be the key to living a long, enjoyable life.
Guiness Book of World Records recorded Tanabe as the world's oldest man last year. He hopes to only update the record. "He says he wants to live for another 10 years, that he doesn't want to die."
Statistics demonstrate Japanese top the world's population in amount of longest-living people. As of last week, the government counted 36, 267 Japanese citizens over the age of 100.
What's his secret to living a long life? Tanabe drinks milk everyday,eats lots- mostly vegatbles and believes a diet devoid of alcohol contributes to his great health. Currently, he has no major disease. Maybe the greatest secret is another aspect- his persepctive on life.
"I'm happy," Tanabe says. Happiness just may be the key to living a long, enjoyable life.
My First Job
Last night was my first shift working at the Vans store in the mall, right next to Nordstrom's. I clocked in at 6 and worked until around 10:15, with a ten minute break at 8:15. Let's just say it was a hectic experience. There's actually a lot more to working at Vans store besides folding clothes and getting different sizes of shoes for people...actually, not really. But it's harder than it looks!
It's policy to get three different pairs of shoes, two pairs of socks, and one can of shoe cleaner - for each customer. Plus, when the customer is done shopping, I have to "runback" the extra products IMMEDIATELY, or I get in trouble. Sounds easy, right? Try doing that for five people at a time. You are eventually running back and forth, literally, to get what they need. And most of the time they are really unappreciative. It goes to show that no matter what people can do for each other, most of the time they don't care. They just want stuff.
It's policy to get three different pairs of shoes, two pairs of socks, and one can of shoe cleaner - for each customer. Plus, when the customer is done shopping, I have to "runback" the extra products IMMEDIATELY, or I get in trouble. Sounds easy, right? Try doing that for five people at a time. You are eventually running back and forth, literally, to get what they need. And most of the time they are really unappreciative. It goes to show that no matter what people can do for each other, most of the time they don't care. They just want stuff.
Dry Land Practice!!!!!
On Wednesday morning, I crawl out of bed for yet another Wednesday morning practice for waterpolo. After I get ready, I walk out the door and BAMN freezing ice cold wind almost blows me over. All that is running through my head is that pool is going to be like the Antarctic Ocean. I blast the heater in my car until it is a sauna, but I am still chilled to the bone thinking about having to get in the pool.
The whole team is huddling near the gate waiting for the dredful words, its time to get in. The coaches start walking towards us. The entire team is in complete silence, you could have heard a pen drop from a mile away. The coaches start laughing, and the JV Coach, Matt says, "How would you guys feel if we let you go home today?" Cheers sprang out from the frozen water polo players, but then Matt quickly adds that, "No, you aren't going home we're going to have practice on dry land."
Dry land practice totally made my day. I couldn't absoulely be thankful for it, because Matt held out the possiblity of going home. But i have to say, I had never been more thankful in my life. Dry land was hard, but at least we weren't freezing cold. I welcomed all the hard lundges, crab walks, and chairs because there in the cornor of my eye loomed the ice cold pool.
The whole team is huddling near the gate waiting for the dredful words, its time to get in. The coaches start walking towards us. The entire team is in complete silence, you could have heard a pen drop from a mile away. The coaches start laughing, and the JV Coach, Matt says, "How would you guys feel if we let you go home today?" Cheers sprang out from the frozen water polo players, but then Matt quickly adds that, "No, you aren't going home we're going to have practice on dry land."
Dry land practice totally made my day. I couldn't absoulely be thankful for it, because Matt held out the possiblity of going home. But i have to say, I had never been more thankful in my life. Dry land was hard, but at least we weren't freezing cold. I welcomed all the hard lundges, crab walks, and chairs because there in the cornor of my eye loomed the ice cold pool.
Farewell TRL
After 10 years on MTV, TRL will be coming to a close in November after a 2 hour special. What is MTV thinking? Is MTV without Total Request Live really MTV? It is ludicrous to retire a show that has been a success for 10 years, and replace it with new shows like Paris Hilton's My New BFF (anyone who plans on watching that, I hope you know you are an embarrasement to society). Without TRL, where will new artists and movie stars go now to promote their albums/movies? MTV, I hope you know you've made a mistake, and TRL, I hope you know we'll miss you.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
I'm scared!
This is less of a rant and more of a ramble...but here it goes. College is FREAKING me out. My dad won't stop talking about it and there are a billion meetings going on at school right now. Don't get me wrong, I'm completely excited. I can't wait to meet new people and just start over. Of course, everywhere I want to go is bound to have someone I know.
But at the same time, I'm really afraid of leaving my friends. My best friend is going to Kansas University. My other best friend is a junior and will still be here at Rocklin. And the odds of my boyfriend going to the same college are extremely low, as it should be. But that doesn't make me any less scared.
So I will be relatively far from all the most important people in my life. Not to mention my mom. When I leave it will just be her and my brother at home. I think she's going to go crazy. without me there to help with my brother. He's totally scatter brained and never gets his stuff done. And the house will be so QUIET! I just think it's going to be really weird.
One more thing, I REALLY REALLY don't want my bedrooms at my mom's or my dad's to be taken over and turned into guest rooms. Even if I'm not living there, it's my home. Shouldn't I be able to come home when I need to and still feel like I belong there? I think so. And I'm going to be very mad when I come home and my room isn't mine anymore.
Basically, I'm really scared. It hasn't fully hit me yet that this time next year I will be starting at a new school, way bigger than this, and not know anyone. I'll be rooming with someone I've never met in a room about half the size of mine now. I'm a little scared, obviously.
But at the same time, I'm really afraid of leaving my friends. My best friend is going to Kansas University. My other best friend is a junior and will still be here at Rocklin. And the odds of my boyfriend going to the same college are extremely low, as it should be. But that doesn't make me any less scared.
So I will be relatively far from all the most important people in my life. Not to mention my mom. When I leave it will just be her and my brother at home. I think she's going to go crazy. without me there to help with my brother. He's totally scatter brained and never gets his stuff done. And the house will be so QUIET! I just think it's going to be really weird.
One more thing, I REALLY REALLY don't want my bedrooms at my mom's or my dad's to be taken over and turned into guest rooms. Even if I'm not living there, it's my home. Shouldn't I be able to come home when I need to and still feel like I belong there? I think so. And I'm going to be very mad when I come home and my room isn't mine anymore.
Basically, I'm really scared. It hasn't fully hit me yet that this time next year I will be starting at a new school, way bigger than this, and not know anyone. I'll be rooming with someone I've never met in a room about half the size of mine now. I'm a little scared, obviously.
Saturday, September 13, 2008
The Police are Everywhere
About an hour ago, a police helicopter arrived right over my house along with a bunch of police cars. The helicopter was hovering around and pointing its spotlight at someone on the other side of the street. As the police cars rolled in, the helicopter began to use a megaphone to tell everyone to return to their houses. It then began to tell whoever the police were after to get down on the ground. It was certainly a surprising sight. Rocklin is not exactly known for its crime and to see a police helicopter over your house yelling down orders certainly makes the day...unique. There are a ton of rumors going around as to what happened, but as for now, none of them have been confirmed. I've been looking at a bunch of local news cites but they don't seem to have been updated. There should be some explanations tomorrow that will solve the mystery of this incident and explain what exactly is going on.
Friday, September 12, 2008
John Mc... Hagee?
Pastor John Hagee... to me, became a joke of an existence since I was a young child. His statements are unbelievable and I have experienced his arrogance and hate because of spending time with ultra right wing conservative christian relatives. His false ideology of life and god has sent him beyond the realms of reality and continues to do so. Anyone looking to become a Christian or interested in faith-based religions should avoid this loser at all costs. Although this news isn't brand spanking new, he never stops amazing me with his diary-ah of the mouth. Anyway, this video displays some of his words of wisdom being broken down by Keith Olbermann.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=oSkaNhAs_UI
Flash staff:
I'm excited about the many varied views of the world you bring here! Melody Thorson of the district made this happen, so we are grateful.
How about First Amendment on t-shirts somehow. I am all about free speech, and you seem to be a staff that appreciates it?
Enjoy the weekend. These are crazy times.
I'm excited about the many varied views of the world you bring here! Melody Thorson of the district made this happen, so we are grateful.
How about First Amendment on t-shirts somehow. I am all about free speech, and you seem to be a staff that appreciates it?
Enjoy the weekend. These are crazy times.
COLA Stands for Cost Of Living Adjustment
Rocklin School District teachers used to be paid one of the highest salaries in our area. However, this has drastically changed in the past few years. RUSD teachers now seem to be competing for the lowest pay.
Each year, the district receives COLA from the state. COLA stands for Cost of Living Adjustment. It is meant to protect our teachers from factors such as inflation and rising gas prices.
Recently, our district's trend has been to pass a fraction (or even none) of the COLA to its teachers. The teachers are not asking for a pay raise, they are only asking for their COLA!
Last year, the state gave our district 4.35% COLA. The district passed 0% on to our teachers! Teachers are still negotiating their '07-'08 salaries, but the district continues to offer them 0%!
Rocklin teacher salaries and health benefits are now 4% below average in the area. Why not teach in Roseville where teachers' salaries and health benefits could be up to 7% above average?
Rocklin teacher salaries and health benefits are now 4% below average in the area. Why not teach in Roseville where teachers' salaries and health benefits could be up to 7% above average?
Clearly, we will be getting the left over teachers if this goes on. As a junior in high school, this doesn't affect me very much; I may only miss out on one or two good teachers. But for younger siblings, friends, and the sake of what's right, we must do something about this.
So what can we do? Call or email super intendant Kevin Brown and the school board members. Go to board meetings. Spread the word. We must do something. It certainly appears that district officials will not work out teacher contracts without student and parent involvement.
September 11th
A moment of silence. And that was it. The rest of yesterday's September 11th went on without a hitch it seemed. It's hard to believe that it has been seven years since the towers went down, and thousands were killed. Last night I watched a history show- history! Sept. 11th is already considered history-and it had different video clips of people's expieriences. It all seemed like some shakey cam horror movie-the same genre of "Cloverfield". I had never seen the raw footage before and let me tell you, it makes a difference. But what really got to me were the things that some people said- shelshocked and terrifyed people who had every right to be angry, but all the same the things they said chilled me. Things like "We should have got them before they got us," "We should drop bombs on them and kill them all," and "Oh my God- we should go to war, like right now." All of them in reference to a mysterious "them" it makes me wonder if anyone really knew who was responsible at that point. The event seemed to bring xenophobia, racism and overall cultural ignornace to the surface of our country. Did they think that an entire country had done this? One man answered my question when he said, "He need to kill all of them: the arabians," he listed similar races afterward which told me that he didn't much care who we fought back as long as we fought back. And that is exactly what happened, we fought back- bombing innocents in order to assuage our righteous injustice. I want to honor those who died and punish those responsible- but surely we can all see the error we made in rushing blindly into battle with an unknown enemy. By this I of course mean no disrespect to the dead and their loved ones because...
no matter how differently we feel about what happened afterward. We all feel the same about September 11th. I hope all who were affected are expiriencing some kind of peace.
no matter how differently we feel about what happened afterward. We all feel the same about September 11th. I hope all who were affected are expiriencing some kind of peace.
life behind the attendence window
I work in the attendance office as a T.A. Most of the time, I do average work like filing, hole punching, or highlighting. It's not the most exciting thing in the world, but while im working I like to observe and listen. Why do work that needs no brain work and not eavesdrop? Okay, its not exactly eavesdropping, I think.
The Rocklin High School administration prowl around the attendence office while I file away. As I flip through hundreds of folders, I take quick glances and tune in to side conversations. Most of the time everyone is so stressed out about the network being down, or twenty kids arriving late because the bus driver was late again. I didn't know the atmosphere could be so stressful and sometimes dramatic
Everyday, fourteen to twenty eight students are tardy. Whether they had car trouble, their clothes didn't make it out of the dryer on time, or they just didn't wake up. The excuses I hear sometimes seem a bit fabricated.
Another part of my job is running to various classrooms to give notes to students who have to go to the attendance office at break or leave at a certain time during the day. It gives me quite a work out sometimes too. It's rather frustrating when Mrs. Taylor writes the wrong class number on the paper, however.
Having this T.A. job makes me realize how much having a real job in the future is going to suck. Especially if im working behind a cubicle, which I never intend to do. Why do mindless work for hours and hours, I might as well be a vegetable.
I predicted that working for a high school is slightly easier than any ordinary job, but all of the administration makes it seem fairly demanding. The more they try and reduce the number of kids who have OCS or come to school late, the more the numbers increase. They keep trying to find ways to help them or change them, but in the end they aren't making an improvement. There are so many people I've seen walk in this school and not care at all. They don't care about their education; they don't care how much Mr. Corrao yells at them.
At the attendance window, Mrs. Taylor and Mrs. Cook greet each tardy student with a friendly, "hello, how are you doing this morning?" They never cease to amaze me. I can tell they try as hard as possible to make each students day better, because they know high school isn't easy. Although, if a student barks back at them or are ridiculously rude, they aren't afraid to tell them to adjust their attitude. In my opinion, they are strong women out to change the civilization of high school teenagers. From time to time I get a motherly vibe from them, It's kind of nice. They compliment me almost every morning, and tell me how much they appreciate my good attitude and strong work ethic. It means a lot to me each time they say it.
The Rocklin High School administration prowl around the attendence office while I file away. As I flip through hundreds of folders, I take quick glances and tune in to side conversations. Most of the time everyone is so stressed out about the network being down, or twenty kids arriving late because the bus driver was late again. I didn't know the atmosphere could be so stressful and sometimes dramatic
Everyday, fourteen to twenty eight students are tardy. Whether they had car trouble, their clothes didn't make it out of the dryer on time, or they just didn't wake up. The excuses I hear sometimes seem a bit fabricated.
Another part of my job is running to various classrooms to give notes to students who have to go to the attendance office at break or leave at a certain time during the day. It gives me quite a work out sometimes too. It's rather frustrating when Mrs. Taylor writes the wrong class number on the paper, however.
Having this T.A. job makes me realize how much having a real job in the future is going to suck. Especially if im working behind a cubicle, which I never intend to do. Why do mindless work for hours and hours, I might as well be a vegetable.
I predicted that working for a high school is slightly easier than any ordinary job, but all of the administration makes it seem fairly demanding. The more they try and reduce the number of kids who have OCS or come to school late, the more the numbers increase. They keep trying to find ways to help them or change them, but in the end they aren't making an improvement. There are so many people I've seen walk in this school and not care at all. They don't care about their education; they don't care how much Mr. Corrao yells at them.
At the attendance window, Mrs. Taylor and Mrs. Cook greet each tardy student with a friendly, "hello, how are you doing this morning?" They never cease to amaze me. I can tell they try as hard as possible to make each students day better, because they know high school isn't easy. Although, if a student barks back at them or are ridiculously rude, they aren't afraid to tell them to adjust their attitude. In my opinion, they are strong women out to change the civilization of high school teenagers. From time to time I get a motherly vibe from them, It's kind of nice. They compliment me almost every morning, and tell me how much they appreciate my good attitude and strong work ethic. It means a lot to me each time they say it.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
An eventful day at Rocklin High School
It was my intention to get as much attention for the SATS today. I didn't entirely grasp the magnitude of our actions today until after lunch was over-people came up to me, giving me high fives...teachers emailed saying 'Thank you...' and I was really entertained when I heard that some seniors were trying to listen and so they told underclassmen to "shut the **** up."
To clear the rumors, some admin did in fact confront some of the people who were handing out flyers this morning. We had proof that we could hand out the flyers, so I think admin was taken aback by our organization and our knowledge of our rights...this is a shoutout to someone who goes unnamed...THANK YOU FOR THE COPY OF OUR DISTRICT POLICIES:)
Kevin Brown, our superintendent, was at school this morning. Brittany and I spoke with him and Mr. Douglas at break today to make sure we were on the same page about our constitutional right to hand out flyers.
Lunch was...successful...but it could have been better. I had never used a megaphone before and neither had any of the people who presented their speeches. I was the first person to speak...and I ended up yelling at the end...but unfortunately the megaphone only amplified my voice if I was pointing the megaphone directly at you. In the end, I think we got our point across and I feel satisfied with the end result.
Again, to clear the rumors...YES a SacBee staff writer was in the amphitheater with us. I emailed the SacBee two days ago to see if I could get a story written about the SATS. I briefly mentioned our lunch speeches today, so I didn't expect anyone to come. But to my surprise, I found him in the office, checking in with Mr. Garrison and Ms. Knox.
I think this is Rocklin activism at it's finest. :)
To clear the rumors, some admin did in fact confront some of the people who were handing out flyers this morning. We had proof that we could hand out the flyers, so I think admin was taken aback by our organization and our knowledge of our rights...this is a shoutout to someone who goes unnamed...THANK YOU FOR THE COPY OF OUR DISTRICT POLICIES:)
Kevin Brown, our superintendent, was at school this morning. Brittany and I spoke with him and Mr. Douglas at break today to make sure we were on the same page about our constitutional right to hand out flyers.
Lunch was...successful...but it could have been better. I had never used a megaphone before and neither had any of the people who presented their speeches. I was the first person to speak...and I ended up yelling at the end...but unfortunately the megaphone only amplified my voice if I was pointing the megaphone directly at you. In the end, I think we got our point across and I feel satisfied with the end result.
Again, to clear the rumors...YES a SacBee staff writer was in the amphitheater with us. I emailed the SacBee two days ago to see if I could get a story written about the SATS. I briefly mentioned our lunch speeches today, so I didn't expect anyone to come. But to my surprise, I found him in the office, checking in with Mr. Garrison and Ms. Knox.
I think this is Rocklin activism at it's finest. :)
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
October Songs
…is an expression commonly used to describe songs in music departments as "easy pieces to start off the school year." I’m excited to say RHS’s band is hitting the year head on with a rather difficult song. Difficult, yet exciting! If all goes well, the Creepy Concert performance will be a hit so come out and support the VAPA department and enjoy Symphonic Band’s performance on 10/25/08 at 7:00pm.
Grades
I have to say that another complicated issue this year is grade access. Last year, it was very simple to click on the grades link, find your teacher, and type in your ID number and password. But this year, they are trying to make it more simple by accessing the full class list of grades all at once. However, I have yet to receive an email for a "verification code" to access my grades and the process is just a huge delay. I think the way the previous grades were accessed should have just been kept the same, since there has already been more than a few issues with new way they have to be checked.
Unnecessary Risks: Our World, Not Theirs
For most who keep up with the news, they will already have heard about the brand new science experiment at the French/Swiss border.
A brand new massive particle collider that will test scientists' theories about the "big bang" by "firing two different beams of protons in a 17-mile underground ring"(yahoo.com).
A noble cause, I am sure... for knowledge's sake. I thought "oh, how interesting. Trying to understand the makeup of the universe."
I myself have always thought that science should only go so far, that part of the beautiful mystery of living was not knowing everything. Being able to look out at the night sky and not know all the different chemical formulas and makeups of stars. Part of our condition as human beings, I have learned, is being able to wonder. I personally believe that wondering is a beautiful thing, and I don't like when people attempt to take that right away from me. Walt Whitman makes a perfect example of my feelings on this subject, controversial as they are to ordinary curious people and educators alike.
"When I heard the learn'd astronomer;
When the proofs, the figures, were ranged in columns before me;
When I was shown the charts and the diagrams, to add, divide, and measure them;
When I, sitting, heard the astronomer, where he lectured with much applause in the lecture-room,
How soon, unaccountable, I became tired and sick;
Till rising and gliding out, I wander'd off by myself,
In the mystical moist night-air, and from time to time,
Look'd up in perfect silence at the stars."
So maybe my attitude wasn't the best prepared to swallow such an idea as this atom collider whole. However, I would have respected it, as it came from people of knowledge; if they hadn't endangered my existence.
I learned about the skepticisms of this experiment. What it might do. And these worries made a profound effect on me, as I love living.
According to several different sources, such a fragile experiment such as this could possibly destroy the world as we know it. Many people speculated that it could create post-apocalypse conditions.
Would they be this careless?
How could we let them?
Before furthering such a controversial experiment, I firmly believe that they should have got the majority vote of humanity. Sure, I know this is impossible, but as far as I know, this planet doesn't solely belong to those scientists that are perpetually curious about everything.
Even though the theory was only speculation, not proof, just the doubt should have caused such as stir that the research should have extended twice as far.
They just went ahead and did it.
Do I have the right to be angry?
Absolutely. I live here.
Think about it next time, you'll be pissed too.
A brand new massive particle collider that will test scientists' theories about the "big bang" by "firing two different beams of protons in a 17-mile underground ring"(yahoo.com).
A noble cause, I am sure... for knowledge's sake. I thought "oh, how interesting. Trying to understand the makeup of the universe."
I myself have always thought that science should only go so far, that part of the beautiful mystery of living was not knowing everything. Being able to look out at the night sky and not know all the different chemical formulas and makeups of stars. Part of our condition as human beings, I have learned, is being able to wonder. I personally believe that wondering is a beautiful thing, and I don't like when people attempt to take that right away from me. Walt Whitman makes a perfect example of my feelings on this subject, controversial as they are to ordinary curious people and educators alike.
"When I heard the learn'd astronomer;
When the proofs, the figures, were ranged in columns before me;
When I was shown the charts and the diagrams, to add, divide, and measure them;
When I, sitting, heard the astronomer, where he lectured with much applause in the lecture-room,
How soon, unaccountable, I became tired and sick;
Till rising and gliding out, I wander'd off by myself,
In the mystical moist night-air, and from time to time,
Look'd up in perfect silence at the stars."
So maybe my attitude wasn't the best prepared to swallow such an idea as this atom collider whole. However, I would have respected it, as it came from people of knowledge; if they hadn't endangered my existence.
I learned about the skepticisms of this experiment. What it might do. And these worries made a profound effect on me, as I love living.
According to several different sources, such a fragile experiment such as this could possibly destroy the world as we know it. Many people speculated that it could create post-apocalypse conditions.
Would they be this careless?
How could we let them?
Before furthering such a controversial experiment, I firmly believe that they should have got the majority vote of humanity. Sure, I know this is impossible, but as far as I know, this planet doesn't solely belong to those scientists that are perpetually curious about everything.
Even though the theory was only speculation, not proof, just the doubt should have caused such as stir that the research should have extended twice as far.
They just went ahead and did it.
Do I have the right to be angry?
Absolutely. I live here.
Think about it next time, you'll be pissed too.
If you missed the fire drill...
This morning at around 7:30ish am the fire alarm went off. I happened to be in the locker room where around twenty girls started screaming. It was mainly the drill girls who were taking showers after a muddy morning practice. My friends and I left the varsity room as quickly as possible and started walking towards the main campus to find out more. Many people were grouping together outside the gym where we saw Mr. Dick and decided to stay with everyone there. I saw some people going back out to their cars and we contemplated to jump into my friend's car, but it was far away. After a few minutes there was an announcement to go to the amphitheatre where the entire school was expected to stay until we knew more. The minute bell rang, and an announcement was made to go to first period. The fire turned out to be a heater heating up construction dust and making the alarm go off. It was quite an eventful wednesday morning.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
More Hurricanes
Recently, there have been several different hurricanes and natural disasters affecting the Gulf Coast. Last week, Hurricane Gustav was rushing into the Gulf Coast and unfortunately aimed for the South. New Orleans, Louisiana already had been devastated by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, so it was a real scare to the area. Luckily, when the storm neared, the levees held the category 2 Hurricane Gustav, preventing catastrophic flooding, and another disaster was prevented. Unfortunately, Hurricane Ike is reaching Cuba and the Gulf of Mexico and is causing major flooding in areas already affected by Gustav. Now, because of the climate changes and global warming of the Earth, there are increasing number of hurricanes that are affecting our country and its people.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Cancer Benefit Walk - OPEN TO PUBLIC
Hey everyone,
My Dad and I have been well-aquainted with the BREATHE CALIFORNIA organization. They're a group dedicated to raising funds to benefit not only cancer research, but the funds are put towards better care and research for asthmatic children, and also towards improving air quality all over California. They put on a multitude of events throughout the year focused on these aspects. Their next one coming up is the Breath of Life Walk. Details and a link to the organization website are listed below:
-WHEN: Saturday, October 4
-WHERE: Golden Gate Park, San Francisco
-WHO: Absolutely anyone willing to participate. (registration is completely free, but we hope you will raise donations for the benefit)
-WHAT: a 5K (3.3mile) walk-WHY: help support cancer research and benefit care and research for asthmatic children and improve air quality all over California.
Registration is open now at http://events.ggbreathe.org/site/TR?fr_id=1120&pg=entry but on the day of, all participants have to be there at 8.30 to register on location, however, the walk actually starts at 10.
And of course there is also the opportunity to stay afterwards and walk around San Francisco, perhaps even to look for a Homecoming dress :)
It'll be fun! And it's for a good cause so please consider it.
THANKS!
-paige chandler
PS, feel free to contact me about it if you have any questions at all L=
My Dad and I have been well-aquainted with the BREATHE CALIFORNIA organization. They're a group dedicated to raising funds to benefit not only cancer research, but the funds are put towards better care and research for asthmatic children, and also towards improving air quality all over California. They put on a multitude of events throughout the year focused on these aspects. Their next one coming up is the Breath of Life Walk. Details and a link to the organization website are listed below:
-WHEN: Saturday, October 4
-WHERE: Golden Gate Park, San Francisco
-WHO: Absolutely anyone willing to participate. (registration is completely free, but we hope you will raise donations for the benefit)
-WHAT: a 5K (3.3mile) walk-WHY: help support cancer research and benefit care and research for asthmatic children and improve air quality all over California.
Registration is open now at http://events.ggbreathe.org/site/TR?fr_id=1120&pg=entry but on the day of, all participants have to be there at 8.30 to register on location, however, the walk actually starts at 10.
And of course there is also the opportunity to stay afterwards and walk around San Francisco, perhaps even to look for a Homecoming dress :)
It'll be fun! And it's for a good cause so please consider it.
THANKS!
-paige chandler
PS, feel free to contact me about it if you have any questions at all L=
Denim In Distress
Distressed jeans - where did they go?
With the exception of those who take it too far by tearing their own holes in too-close-for-comfort areas, jeans that are made to look washed and worn are one of my personal favorite trends. They're comfortable and I've found they always bring about a sense of relaxation and ease to one's day, even as rediculous as that probably sounds. Sadly, and maybe it's just me, but I have not seen them around campus for a while. I've even noticed the lack of their availablility in stores now as well. A sad day for teenagers everywhere.
With the exception of those who take it too far by tearing their own holes in too-close-for-comfort areas, jeans that are made to look washed and worn are one of my personal favorite trends. They're comfortable and I've found they always bring about a sense of relaxation and ease to one's day, even as rediculous as that probably sounds. Sadly, and maybe it's just me, but I have not seen them around campus for a while. I've even noticed the lack of their availablility in stores now as well. A sad day for teenagers everywhere.
Athlete of The Week
Shelby Bergman is Athlete of the week. She's played golf since freshman year, which is very impressive. I wish I was good at golf. She also plays basketball and plans on swimming this year. Shelby Bergman, you rock.
Yearbook cupcakes
Today in yearbook we celebrated Sydney Ware's birthday with delicious cupcakes specially made by Mrs. Nichols. Not just any regular cupcakes, FUNFETTI cupcakes. They were absolutely delicious.
Because i didn't eat breakfast this morning, I was able to enjoy it so much more. The only minus to my cupcake extravaganza, is that I got one...and only one. This was thoughroughly depressing, as there were probably about 7 left.
I asked Mr. Nichols if I could have another, but her turned me down. This saddened me. He was going to give them away to other teachers, but no body wanted them. No body wanted those deliciously colorful Funfetti cupcakes.
Now I sit here writing about how much I want that cupcake, as they sit there on Nichol's desk staring me straight in the face. My day will end with extreme disappointment. I will not get another cupcake.
Because i didn't eat breakfast this morning, I was able to enjoy it so much more. The only minus to my cupcake extravaganza, is that I got one...and only one. This was thoughroughly depressing, as there were probably about 7 left.
I asked Mr. Nichols if I could have another, but her turned me down. This saddened me. He was going to give them away to other teachers, but no body wanted them. No body wanted those deliciously colorful Funfetti cupcakes.
Now I sit here writing about how much I want that cupcake, as they sit there on Nichol's desk staring me straight in the face. My day will end with extreme disappointment. I will not get another cupcake.
You have the power
It has infiltrated our campus, it has poisoned our papers, and it continues to lurk on our computers. It is hideous, it is unprofessional, and it is a crime against the world of print. It is overused and it is overrated. It is infamous in the communications world and the mere sight of it sends a cringe into the depths of each of my bones.
It is Comic Sans MS, a disastrous font that should never have been created. Microsoft created the font in 1995 with the purpose of filling in the text bubbles in comics.
"Since that time the typeface has been used in countless contexts from restaurant signage to college exams to medical information. These widespread abuses of printed type threaten to erode the very foundations upon which centuries of typographic history are built," www.bancomicsans.com said about the atrocities Comic Sans has committed.
The font is used everywhere. Once you begin to pay attention to the ugly typeface you will find it all over our society, from loitering on billboards to lurking in our administration’s email inbox. It is scattered about the RHS campus, the Rocklin community, and the streets of America.
You have the power to end it. Stop the use of Comic Sans and join our fight to end the plague of the printing community. Ban Comic Sans.
Serj Tankian
Okay ... I'm writing about a person who is a very talented artist, Serj Tankian.
Serj Tankian is currently in his own band named after himself, working on a second CD at the moment. His first CD, Elect the Dead, has some of the favorite songs that I listen to. "Empty Walls" is currently my favorite.
Last March, my cousin took me to The Warfield in San Francisco to see Serj in concert. It was the best (and the first) concert that I have been to.
I just really enjoy the music Serj plays, and will listen to him for many more years and possibly when the band System of a Down, his original band, comes off of hiatus.
Serj Tankian is currently in his own band named after himself, working on a second CD at the moment. His first CD, Elect the Dead, has some of the favorite songs that I listen to. "Empty Walls" is currently my favorite.
Last March, my cousin took me to The Warfield in San Francisco to see Serj in concert. It was the best (and the first) concert that I have been to.
I just really enjoy the music Serj plays, and will listen to him for many more years and possibly when the band System of a Down, his original band, comes off of hiatus.
Broadway Homecoming
Homecoming is just around the corner once again for Rocklin High School. The theme: Broadway. Homecoming Center Stage is taking its toll and causing stress for many of the females at Rocklin. Dress shopping is always a chaotic matter when it comes to Homecoming. Girls are always trying to find the right and perfect dress for Homecoming. Popular stores are visited such as Cache, Bebe, Nordstrom, Macys, White House Black Market, and many others. Some make it a trip and spend their weekend in places such as San Francisco to find the right dress. Homecoming is the biggest time of year at Rocklin High School. From the floats to the lunch time games Homecoming is one of the most memorable times at Rocklin. Rocklin truley does try to make Homecoming as glamorous and classy as it can be. The halftime show is always amazing and the rally opener is always something to remember. No one ever gets sick of the word Homecoming when they here it. The four class sub themes for Homecoming are Freshman being Grease, Sophomores being Phantom of the Opera, Juniors being Hairspray, and the Seniors being none other than the Lion King. Homecoming will be another exciting time of year once again.
No Club Rush?
For quite some time club rush has been a tradition. This year, however, the fate of this RHS tradition is questionable. Will there be any club rush at all?
Usually club rush is towards the beginning of September, when the school year is still fresh but not so new that people would have a hard time jumping into additional activities. This year is different. At the moment club rush is not on the calender due to the teachers aiming to get a new contract.
Club rush is an oppertunity to preview all the clubs that are going to be available in the school year. The amphitheater is filled with tables, each displaying a particular club. Students then wallk around signing up and getting information from the ones they are interested in.
I can remember club rush my freshman year, and even my sophomore year. It has always gotten my friends and I pumped up for the new school year.
Club rush encourages ALL of the students to get involved in their school in one way or another. It brings us all together.
Hopefully club rush returns.
Usually club rush is towards the beginning of September, when the school year is still fresh but not so new that people would have a hard time jumping into additional activities. This year is different. At the moment club rush is not on the calender due to the teachers aiming to get a new contract.
Club rush is an oppertunity to preview all the clubs that are going to be available in the school year. The amphitheater is filled with tables, each displaying a particular club. Students then wallk around signing up and getting information from the ones they are interested in.
I can remember club rush my freshman year, and even my sophomore year. It has always gotten my friends and I pumped up for the new school year.
Club rush encourages ALL of the students to get involved in their school in one way or another. It brings us all together.
Hopefully club rush returns.
Football games: attendance there to watch?
With the first home football game this friday, the teams expect to attract the large typical attendance seen before. Football fans and non football fans alike gather. But is it all for the game?
Some come to participate in the action, wheter it be playing or cheering. In the sum of school spirit from the cheerleaders, drill team, rowdy rooters, band, and of course, the fans, there's a lot of motivational energy in the crowd.
Others come for the socilization. It's fun to see a friend, or just to hang out with friends in the stands. Friday nights are good times too, since it's not a school night and the week is over.
Whatever the reason for attendance, there's action outside the playing field.
Some come to participate in the action, wheter it be playing or cheering. In the sum of school spirit from the cheerleaders, drill team, rowdy rooters, band, and of course, the fans, there's a lot of motivational energy in the crowd.
Others come for the socilization. It's fun to see a friend, or just to hang out with friends in the stands. Friday nights are good times too, since it's not a school night and the week is over.
Whatever the reason for attendance, there's action outside the playing field.
Homecoming Stress
Homecoming is still a month away, but the stress is already taking over. This year the theme is Broadway and all the girls are trying to find that perfect but not too flashy dress. Popular stores the the girls are raiding are Nordstrom, Macy's, Cache, and many others. Many girls go to San Fransisco just to look for that special dress, and some find the local Galleria a hit; But thats just half the problem. Finding a date is probably the most stressful part of Homecoming. Most girls stress out about having a date and who's going to ask them, but the boys on the other hand, could care less this far out in time. Boys need to start getting creative and asking in special ways for the girl to remember. Aside from the dance, the football game will be one to watch. Napa had a great season last year, but I think that this time, the Thunder will pull through and win. The lunch time activities are going to be a hit along with the dress up days. Homecoming is a very eventful time and its coming up really soon!
The VMAs
The 2008 Video Music awards are already here and gone. Another night of performances and awards were given in Hollywood on Sunday, September 7th. The stars looked glamorous in all their designer dresses. The performance by Rihanna and Lil Wayne were amazing. The host Russell Brand, from the United Kingdom, was hilarious and took the VMAs to a new level. He's rude remarks and sexual humor really connected to the audience. Surprisingly, Brittney Spears won three awards this year, finally. What was also cool about this years VMAs was there was a helicopter spotting the star's limos as made their way into Hollywood. Many celebs were contacting in the limo before their big arrival and were interviewed from the helicopter flying above. Not every celebrity showed up in a limo however, some showed up in monster trucks, others in smart cars, and even elephants. Yes, elephants. This years VMAs was the best yet.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Values As A Leader
This past weekend I spent in Modesto. I know what you're all probably thinking: "What is there in Modesto that would possibly worth spending the weekend for?"
I spent the weekend there as part of board bonding with my regional board. My youth group, USY (United Synagogue Youth), elects a regional board each May to represent our region, New Frontier (which is made up of Northern California and Reno). This past May, I was elected to the position of Communications VP along with 6 other people on my board. We had a really rough start because a new director was supposed to hired way before summer but wasn't actually hired until the beginning of August, leaving us way behind schedule.
Anyways, during Friday night, our new regional youth director planned a program for us to discuss what values were important to us personally, as a USY leader, or both. There were nearly 250 values for us to sift through. After organizing those, we had to pick 5 values for each. But the catch was they needed to be values that built upon each other (For example: organization is a value that feeds into hard-working or something like that). It was EXTREMELY hard, but I managed to do it. I wish I could type out my values for you guys, but she has my copy. Maybe I'll edit this entry.
I noticed that even though every single one of us had a distinct path of values, they were each important and really are what determined the type of leaders we are and are going to become. It was our first task as a team to come up with a path of values for our board. These involved good communication and trust, which I consider to be very important in laying down foundation for leadership.
I think it's something that can be applied to journalism as well because when you're working with your editor or your fellow writers, it is important to have good communication or trust. A good publication does not stand solely on excellent, sharp writing, but on the work of a team and the competency of its leaders to get their staff through.
I spent the weekend there as part of board bonding with my regional board. My youth group, USY (United Synagogue Youth), elects a regional board each May to represent our region, New Frontier (which is made up of Northern California and Reno). This past May, I was elected to the position of Communications VP along with 6 other people on my board. We had a really rough start because a new director was supposed to hired way before summer but wasn't actually hired until the beginning of August, leaving us way behind schedule.
Anyways, during Friday night, our new regional youth director planned a program for us to discuss what values were important to us personally, as a USY leader, or both. There were nearly 250 values for us to sift through. After organizing those, we had to pick 5 values for each. But the catch was they needed to be values that built upon each other (For example: organization is a value that feeds into hard-working or something like that). It was EXTREMELY hard, but I managed to do it. I wish I could type out my values for you guys, but she has my copy. Maybe I'll edit this entry.
I noticed that even though every single one of us had a distinct path of values, they were each important and really are what determined the type of leaders we are and are going to become. It was our first task as a team to come up with a path of values for our board. These involved good communication and trust, which I consider to be very important in laying down foundation for leadership.
I think it's something that can be applied to journalism as well because when you're working with your editor or your fellow writers, it is important to have good communication or trust. A good publication does not stand solely on excellent, sharp writing, but on the work of a team and the competency of its leaders to get their staff through.
Iraqi LGBT
This morning I walked to my kitchen table only to see the twin plastic grins of the most recent republican candidates, John McCain and Sarah Palin, grinning at me from the front of the newest Newsweek. It's a special Republican Convention issue.
No surprise there.
However, I decided to read the publication, which lead to my discovery of a fascinating article: one that dealt with homosexuality in Iraq.
With all of this war going on, it is surprising to hear of an issue so fragile. The humanity of the Iraqi people seems to be going straight through the media sifter, and we tend to look at the issue through eyes that see only numbers, statistics.
The way that Americans see it is there are too many larger issues to attend to than to be concerned at all about simple issues such as these peoples' sexuality and civil rights.
But here is an example of what an ignored issue results in:
These men were allegedly gay. That was their only crime, and they were gunned down in the street by police for it.
"Since 2003, some 430 gay men have been murdered," says Newsweek.
Iraqi authorities monitor suspect behavior in any man who shows signs of a tendency. These measures go to the extent of looking through cell phones, entering homes, etc.
The good news in the midst of this situation is a group which has been formed to hide these men, who want nothing more than to harmlessly pursue their own happiness... Iraqi LGBT.
For those of you who don't know, LGBT stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender. Here in the US, we've begun to use a longer version, LGBTQ, which just adds Questioning at the end. There's a little piece of irrevalent information for you all.
However, this group consisting and supported by activists abroad has begun "safe houses," where these men hide out in extremely cramped quarters to survive. They don't go out of the house and limit contact with any neighbors.
More than anything else, this issue opened my eyes to the fact that in the midst of mechanical war, there are people. People who just want to exist.
I hope thats part of what we're fighting for, because that, not oil, is a worthy cause.
No surprise there.
However, I decided to read the publication, which lead to my discovery of a fascinating article: one that dealt with homosexuality in Iraq.
With all of this war going on, it is surprising to hear of an issue so fragile. The humanity of the Iraqi people seems to be going straight through the media sifter, and we tend to look at the issue through eyes that see only numbers, statistics.
The way that Americans see it is there are too many larger issues to attend to than to be concerned at all about simple issues such as these peoples' sexuality and civil rights.
But here is an example of what an ignored issue results in:
These men were allegedly gay. That was their only crime, and they were gunned down in the street by police for it.
"Since 2003, some 430 gay men have been murdered," says Newsweek.
Iraqi authorities monitor suspect behavior in any man who shows signs of a tendency. These measures go to the extent of looking through cell phones, entering homes, etc.
The good news in the midst of this situation is a group which has been formed to hide these men, who want nothing more than to harmlessly pursue their own happiness... Iraqi LGBT.
For those of you who don't know, LGBT stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender. Here in the US, we've begun to use a longer version, LGBTQ, which just adds Questioning at the end. There's a little piece of irrevalent information for you all.
However, this group consisting and supported by activists abroad has begun "safe houses," where these men hide out in extremely cramped quarters to survive. They don't go out of the house and limit contact with any neighbors.
More than anything else, this issue opened my eyes to the fact that in the midst of mechanical war, there are people. People who just want to exist.
I hope thats part of what we're fighting for, because that, not oil, is a worthy cause.
Saturday, September 6, 2008
SATS: Students for Advancing Teacher Salaries
Hello!
This is my first rant in written form for the year...
I am a member of the SATS group. It stands for "Students for Advancing Teacher Salaries" and it all started out when I called a couple of people who I thought would be outspoken and passionate about change for the teacher salary/district situation. I have to sadly admit-I probably wouldn't have done anything if our clubs hadn't stopped. The conflict has gone on for more than a year, and I did not know any student who really stepped up to help the teachers last year. When I found out that clubs were to be nonexistent, I thought about the situation for a couple weeks and I had the sudden urge to help. We take our teachers and our clubs and school for granted, and now that we've lost a part of our student culture, I am hoping the SATS group I helped form isn't the only group of students upset about the situation in our district.
SATS have met a three times now, and we have some plans to intiate before the 17th. We've painted our cars and placed posters in our windows and you'll find more to come in the next couple days. The reason why we are not very public about our plans is because we want to keep it on the down-low-we want to have the biggest impact we can possibly have, and I think the best way to make this all happen is to keep the suspense in the air...yes...suspenseful.
I strongly urge anyone interested in helping to call me or email rhssats@yahoo.com. We need help with poster supplies, window paint, and labor!
I've been inspired by Barack Obama and politics in general-I've come to this conclusion in my head that I belong in politics, whether it be as a lawyer or as a political adviser. Politics may be a dirty game, but there is this inner fire within me that wants to make change.
I also envision the SATS to be the vehicle for change at Rocklin High School-we've never had this active of a group, and I remain optimistic for what lies ahead.
I leave you with my favorite quote:
This is my first rant in written form for the year...
I am a member of the SATS group. It stands for "Students for Advancing Teacher Salaries" and it all started out when I called a couple of people who I thought would be outspoken and passionate about change for the teacher salary/district situation. I have to sadly admit-I probably wouldn't have done anything if our clubs hadn't stopped. The conflict has gone on for more than a year, and I did not know any student who really stepped up to help the teachers last year. When I found out that clubs were to be nonexistent, I thought about the situation for a couple weeks and I had the sudden urge to help. We take our teachers and our clubs and school for granted, and now that we've lost a part of our student culture, I am hoping the SATS group I helped form isn't the only group of students upset about the situation in our district.
SATS have met a three times now, and we have some plans to intiate before the 17th. We've painted our cars and placed posters in our windows and you'll find more to come in the next couple days. The reason why we are not very public about our plans is because we want to keep it on the down-low-we want to have the biggest impact we can possibly have, and I think the best way to make this all happen is to keep the suspense in the air...yes...suspenseful.
I strongly urge anyone interested in helping to call me or email rhssats@yahoo.com. We need help with poster supplies, window paint, and labor!
I've been inspired by Barack Obama and politics in general-I've come to this conclusion in my head that I belong in politics, whether it be as a lawyer or as a political adviser. Politics may be a dirty game, but there is this inner fire within me that wants to make change.
I also envision the SATS to be the vehicle for change at Rocklin High School-we've never had this active of a group, and I remain optimistic for what lies ahead.
I leave you with my favorite quote:
"Hope -- Hope in the face of difficulty. Hope in the face of uncertainty. The audacity of hope! In the end, that is God’s greatest gift to us, the bedrock of this nation. A belief in things not seen. A belief that there are better days ahead." -Barack Obama
API Scores
Once again our marvelous school has become number one in Placer County when it comes to our newest API score. This is my third year in high school, all of which have been at Rocklin, and this is our third year in a row claiming this title.
My freshman year I didn't really understand the significance of the API score. Actually i didn't really even understand what an API score was. All I knew is that there was going to be a free "API" dance and food at lunch, and I had nothing to do with it.
My sophomore year we did it again and there was another dance, barbeque, and motivational ralley. Now that it is my junior year and we have done it again it is almost becoming routine, but a good one of course.
I am extremely proud of our school, especially all of the students. They buckled down and did what they had to do when the time came for it. Hopefully we can do it again next year, setting a four year wining strike, all four years of which I have been here.
This has become another reason I am proud to say that I am a student at Rocklin High School.
My freshman year I didn't really understand the significance of the API score. Actually i didn't really even understand what an API score was. All I knew is that there was going to be a free "API" dance and food at lunch, and I had nothing to do with it.
My sophomore year we did it again and there was another dance, barbeque, and motivational ralley. Now that it is my junior year and we have done it again it is almost becoming routine, but a good one of course.
I am extremely proud of our school, especially all of the students. They buckled down and did what they had to do when the time came for it. Hopefully we can do it again next year, setting a four year wining strike, all four years of which I have been here.
This has become another reason I am proud to say that I am a student at Rocklin High School.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
New School Year
Every time the new school year begins, it is difficult to get back into the normal RHS routine. But the 2008-2009 year is starting off very different than usual. All of the teachers are very frustrated and angered by the district because they are not paying them their raise that they should be paying every year. Therefore, the teachers are cracking down on the rules and the administration is creating school rules that did not even exist in previous school years. I think that the freshmen should be the most annoyed by all of these changes because it just makes their first year of high school that much harder to deal with. The upperclassmen should be annoyed because their last years of high school won’t be what they expected and the postponement of clubs has never happened before while they attended RHS. Shortly, all of the changes this year are incredibly frustrating, because what is affecting the teachers right now is affecting the students’ high school careers even more.
A Stricter School Year
Once again the school year has started and Rocklin seems to have the same traditions. However, this year there are a lot more rules being strictly enforced. Not only is the administration cracking down on the dress code harder then ever, but now there are even rules on where we are allowed to sit at lunch. These rules have never been there before, but the administration swears they were always there just not followed or enforced. As a student, I don't know what to believe. I mean are these brand new rules or were they always there? Like the tank top rule that supposedly has been there for many years was never cracked down on until lately. My freshman year everyone wore tank tops and no one was ever asked to change. Even the beginning of my sophomore year we wore tank tops. I don't understand how the rules can change in the middle of the school year. I think they need to enforce them from the start. Even a rule as stupid as no shoulders showing should be properly stated to the whole school so we know what is appropriate and what isn't. I also think we should be given an explanation to why these items of clothing are inappropriate. I can see something that is too revealing, but I didn't realize some one's shoulders were so inappropriate for others to see. I hate how Rocklin is the only school in our county that has such a strict dress code policy even after we have the highest test scores, most awards, and we are the school that everyone else wants to be, but not when it comes to dress code. Its impossible to find enough clothes that are acceptable and that also keep you cool in this blazing heat. This school expects you to be in turtle necks and jeans while its 105 degrees outside. I think the dress code should be modified. They want us to be comfortable, so they should let us wear what we want.
Blue Silver Scrimmage
This Saturday, I had my first "game" as an RHS cheerleader. I used to be a competitive cheeleader for POWER so I had no experiance of what it was like to cheer on the sidelines. All we used to do was learn routines and then go to competitions. I loved compeating but it was a huge time commitment. So this year decided that I should try out for the school team. Because I'm one of the only new additions to the team, we barely went over the sidelilne cheer's because everyone already knows them. I was really nervous to cheer at the scrimmage because I didn't know all of the cheer's completly and I didn't want to mess up infront of the crowd. As the scrimmage was going on, I kept asking the captian, Kelsey, what the next cheer she was going to call next so that I could go over it in my head. I messed up a few times but I eventually caught on. Finally it was halftime and we performed our camp routiene which went great. I was relieved that it was a routiene that I actually knew. Then it was back to the sidelines to cheer on the crowd more. Overall, I made a few errors on the cheers, but I was happy that it was only a scrimmage and not an acutal game.
Monday, September 1, 2008
Did Harry Potter’s privates push “half blood prince”?
This story immediately caught my attention simply because of the popularity of the Harry Potter movies to the general public. The idea of moving the Harry Potter movies even a day back would upset more people than even imaginable, so when the writer spoke of moving it back into another year I couldn’t imagine the panic! And upset of all of those fans toward Daniel Radcliffe for showing those racy photos in an issue of Vogue. The popularity surrounding him and his cast members alone is remarkable, and to think he would do something in the new movie that would, let’s say, leave nothing to the imagination, seems extremely risky. I’m excited to see how the postponing of the movie will affect his Harry Potter fans.
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