Thursday, April 29, 2004
The Mona Lisa Is Deteriorating, foxnews.com, April 26, 2004
The Mona Lisa is deteriorating and we are not sure why. A study will begin to determine the factors. Part of it may be the constant photography.
When I saw it, a large crowd was gathered around, snapping photographs and taking video. The Mona Lisa is the most recognized and famous painting in the world. I did not spend very much time looking at it because it was hard to fight though the crowds. I thought, "This is commercialized at its best!"
The Mona Lisa is deteriorating and we are not sure why. A study will begin to determine the factors. Part of it may be the constant photography.
When I saw it, a large crowd was gathered around, snapping photographs and taking video. The Mona Lisa is the most recognized and famous painting in the world. I did not spend very much time looking at it because it was hard to fight though the crowds. I thought, "This is commercialized at its best!"
Monday, April 26, 2004
Reno mother's lawsuit targets alcohol providers, rgj.com, April 26, 2004
A 19 year old Reno man died in a drunk driving accident after getting drunk and driving his girlfriend's car home when he didn't have a valid license. Now his mother is suing Coors brewing Co. because that was her son's favorite beer. She says the company promotes underage drinking.
This mother is grieving for her loss. Yes, it is very sad and unfortunate to lose your son this way. However, Coors is not responsible for his choice to drink and drive. Making bad decisions has consequences and he paid the ultimate price.
The mother knew her son's favorite beer was Coors and that he was drinking under age. Why didn't she handle the problem and not allow him to drink until 21? Also, the mother is suing the girlfriend's mom who let her have the car. I find it interesting how that mother is being held responsible but she's not! Both people were at that party making the same choices.
As for the youthful people in Coors ads, of course they are going to show youthful people having a good time. They want to sell the product. Everyone is aware what the drinking age is.
This once again illustrates the sue happy society. Where do you end? Do you sue the car company for not manufacturing a car that would withstand his crash at 90 mph? Do you sue the city for putting up a pole that 'got in the way' of the car? She has to find someone to blame.
She'll probably win too....
Woman Sues Coors Over Son's Death In Accident, local6.com, April 17, 2004
A 19 year old Reno man died in a drunk driving accident after getting drunk and driving his girlfriend's car home when he didn't have a valid license. Now his mother is suing Coors brewing Co. because that was her son's favorite beer. She says the company promotes underage drinking.
This mother is grieving for her loss. Yes, it is very sad and unfortunate to lose your son this way. However, Coors is not responsible for his choice to drink and drive. Making bad decisions has consequences and he paid the ultimate price.
The mother knew her son's favorite beer was Coors and that he was drinking under age. Why didn't she handle the problem and not allow him to drink until 21? Also, the mother is suing the girlfriend's mom who let her have the car. I find it interesting how that mother is being held responsible but she's not! Both people were at that party making the same choices.
As for the youthful people in Coors ads, of course they are going to show youthful people having a good time. They want to sell the product. Everyone is aware what the drinking age is.
This once again illustrates the sue happy society. Where do you end? Do you sue the car company for not manufacturing a car that would withstand his crash at 90 mph? Do you sue the city for putting up a pole that 'got in the way' of the car? She has to find someone to blame.
She'll probably win too....
Woman Sues Coors Over Son's Death In Accident, local6.com, April 17, 2004
Saturday, April 24, 2004
Working Too Hard
In American society we are very busy people. It seems like everyone has a hectic schedule and is under a lot of stress. Students who work are no exception. I took on way too much last week, and with all the assignments, exams, and lack of sleep, it became too much. My body forced me to slow down.
Many people show up to work sick, which costs employers due to less productivity and spreading the sickness to others. I find myself thinking, "oh, I can't miss that test", "this is a very important meeting", or "no one else can cover the shift", but sometimes you have to put health first. When something serious or devistating happens (not just with health), it's amazing how priorities are quickly shifted.
If you push too hard your body will let you know. In our busy lives, be sure to slow down every once in a while and take some time to relax.
In American society we are very busy people. It seems like everyone has a hectic schedule and is under a lot of stress. Students who work are no exception. I took on way too much last week, and with all the assignments, exams, and lack of sleep, it became too much. My body forced me to slow down.
Many people show up to work sick, which costs employers due to less productivity and spreading the sickness to others. I find myself thinking, "oh, I can't miss that test", "this is a very important meeting", or "no one else can cover the shift", but sometimes you have to put health first. When something serious or devistating happens (not just with health), it's amazing how priorities are quickly shifted.
If you push too hard your body will let you know. In our busy lives, be sure to slow down every once in a while and take some time to relax.
Saturday, April 17, 2004
High gas prices here to stay, experts say, Lodi News-Sentinel, April 17, 2004
Don't count on the price going down when you look at that gas station sign! The prices won't be going down any time soon. With summer approaching and an increase in road trips, the prices are expected to rise. The $3 per gallon rumor isn't true according to industry experts. Let's hope so! Still, the $2+ per gallon is hitting people hard.
According to HowStuffWorks, the price of gas is distributed between crude oil, refining costs, distribution and marketing, taxes, and station markup.
Americans are using a higher amount of gas (large SUVs, driving more), which creates a higher demand. Also, California has high environmental standards than the federal laws.
If gas prices remain high, Americans will eventually adjust and the cost will become accepted. Some changes would come in the form of higher delivery charges, a financial crunch on commuters, and an overall higher cost of living. That's how it works in Europe. People don't complain about the high prices (mostly tax) because it is the norm. I doubt people will drive less due to high prices. Americans love their cars. Driving is a both a luxury and a necessity, and at times like this it doesn't come cheap! All I can say is to budget some extra cash for gas if you plan on driving much this summer.
Fuel Economy --Check out gas prices and mileage tips.
AAA: Average Gasoline Price Hits New Record at $1.783
Don't count on the price going down when you look at that gas station sign! The prices won't be going down any time soon. With summer approaching and an increase in road trips, the prices are expected to rise. The $3 per gallon rumor isn't true according to industry experts. Let's hope so! Still, the $2+ per gallon is hitting people hard.
According to HowStuffWorks, the price of gas is distributed between crude oil, refining costs, distribution and marketing, taxes, and station markup.
Americans are using a higher amount of gas (large SUVs, driving more), which creates a higher demand. Also, California has high environmental standards than the federal laws.
If gas prices remain high, Americans will eventually adjust and the cost will become accepted. Some changes would come in the form of higher delivery charges, a financial crunch on commuters, and an overall higher cost of living. That's how it works in Europe. People don't complain about the high prices (mostly tax) because it is the norm. I doubt people will drive less due to high prices. Americans love their cars. Driving is a both a luxury and a necessity, and at times like this it doesn't come cheap! All I can say is to budget some extra cash for gas if you plan on driving much this summer.
Fuel Economy --Check out gas prices and mileage tips.
AAA: Average Gasoline Price Hits New Record at $1.783
Friday, April 16, 2004
Diet Advice from McDonalds?, MSN.com, April 15, 2004
Here's a follow-up to the McDonald's story. In addition to getting rid of super size, an anti-obesity campaign featuring adult happy meals and fruit options has been launched.
An adult "Go Active" meal includes salad, bottled water, and a pedometer. Also, kids can get apple sauce or fruit instead of french fries. Like many restaurants McDonald's is jumping on the health food bandwagon. After fighting off lawsuits, they want to create a healthier image in an age of dieting.
I don't know about you, but if I go to McDonald's I am not craving health food. If I wanted a salad I would go to a restaurant or have one at home. The low fat versions of fast food items don't taste the same and I am glad that they are keeping the normal menu as well.
What about the health advice? A fast food restaurant is an unlikely source, and they are clearly doing this for better public relations. The main recommendation given is to walk more. Yes, we do need to walk more. I can't argue with that. I just don't like to think how much I'm going to have to walk to work off my meal at McDonald's! I can see their health campaign being a turn-off for those who do not want to change their habits.
McDonald's will always be fast food. It is nice for a treat or occasional quick meal on a busy day. Moderation is key!
McDonald's Unveils Bold Balanced Lifestyles Platform
Here's a follow-up to the McDonald's story. In addition to getting rid of super size, an anti-obesity campaign featuring adult happy meals and fruit options has been launched.
An adult "Go Active" meal includes salad, bottled water, and a pedometer. Also, kids can get apple sauce or fruit instead of french fries. Like many restaurants McDonald's is jumping on the health food bandwagon. After fighting off lawsuits, they want to create a healthier image in an age of dieting.
I don't know about you, but if I go to McDonald's I am not craving health food. If I wanted a salad I would go to a restaurant or have one at home. The low fat versions of fast food items don't taste the same and I am glad that they are keeping the normal menu as well.
What about the health advice? A fast food restaurant is an unlikely source, and they are clearly doing this for better public relations. The main recommendation given is to walk more. Yes, we do need to walk more. I can't argue with that. I just don't like to think how much I'm going to have to walk to work off my meal at McDonald's! I can see their health campaign being a turn-off for those who do not want to change their habits.
McDonald's will always be fast food. It is nice for a treat or occasional quick meal on a busy day. Moderation is key!
McDonald's Unveils Bold Balanced Lifestyles Platform
Wednesday, April 14, 2004
Family Fights For Giant Jungle Gym, local6.com, March 17, 2004
A kid in Missouri has a $7,000, 22-foot tall jungle gym built by his father. Looking at the picture, this jungle gym is huge with a giant slide. According to city code, the structure is too tall by seven feet. The father did not check and get permission from the city before building it.
The kid (which looks to be about 4) does not need a giant jungle gym like that in his back yard. He hurt himself from a high fall. It's also an eyesore because it towers above the fence. The neighbors do not like it and signed a petition.
The parents have chosen to fight the law instead of comply, saying they would move before tearing the structure down. This is a similar situation to the blue mohawk. The parents have chosen to question authority instead of explain to their son that rules are to be followed even if it means not getting what you want. Like the mohawk, the gym is affecting other people.
Once it is torn down, they will move (and probably build another one in a new neighborhood!). What lessons are today's kids learning?
A kid in Missouri has a $7,000, 22-foot tall jungle gym built by his father. Looking at the picture, this jungle gym is huge with a giant slide. According to city code, the structure is too tall by seven feet. The father did not check and get permission from the city before building it.
The kid (which looks to be about 4) does not need a giant jungle gym like that in his back yard. He hurt himself from a high fall. It's also an eyesore because it towers above the fence. The neighbors do not like it and signed a petition.
The parents have chosen to fight the law instead of comply, saying they would move before tearing the structure down. This is a similar situation to the blue mohawk. The parents have chosen to question authority instead of explain to their son that rules are to be followed even if it means not getting what you want. Like the mohawk, the gym is affecting other people.
Once it is torn down, they will move (and probably build another one in a new neighborhood!). What lessons are today's kids learning?
Bonds nails homer No. 661 into McCovey Cove, USAToday.com, April 13, 2004
Wow, Barry Bonds has hit home run #661 yesterday, placing him third in the home run leaders. What I found amazing, was that #660 and #661 were caught by the same kayaker out in the bay! What are the chances of that happening? He was nice enough to return #660 to Bonds, but decided to keep #661 for himself! Way to go Bonds, and that is one lucky fan!
Rundown of the Game
Wow, Barry Bonds has hit home run #661 yesterday, placing him third in the home run leaders. What I found amazing, was that #660 and #661 were caught by the same kayaker out in the bay! What are the chances of that happening? He was nice enough to return #660 to Bonds, but decided to keep #661 for himself! Way to go Bonds, and that is one lucky fan!
Rundown of the Game
Tuesday, April 13, 2004
Role reversal has Gray Davis trying television, Contra Costa Times, April 11, 2004
Here's a funny role reversal. Gray Davis has decided to go into acting! He has an agent and is starting off by doing a string of Yahoo! commercials. I find it amusing that the actor becomes governor, and the governor decides to become an actor! Davis even appeared with Gov. Schwarzenegger on the Tonight Show in March.
This just shows that a person can do several things. It's nice to know you can, but sometimes people should just stick to what they know. Actors become singers. Singers become actors....with some horrible flops as a result!
Who knows, Davis may do ok as an actor. California is full of surprises!
Here's a funny role reversal. Gray Davis has decided to go into acting! He has an agent and is starting off by doing a string of Yahoo! commercials. I find it amusing that the actor becomes governor, and the governor decides to become an actor! Davis even appeared with Gov. Schwarzenegger on the Tonight Show in March.
This just shows that a person can do several things. It's nice to know you can, but sometimes people should just stick to what they know. Actors become singers. Singers become actors....with some horrible flops as a result!
Who knows, Davis may do ok as an actor. California is full of surprises!
Saturday, April 10, 2004
Comment!
Hooray! I finally got around to getting the comment link up and running. Now you can write back, praise me for my intelligent comments, or tell me I'm wrong! I welcome any comments you may have. Who knows, perhaps an engaging debate will emerge on one of these topics!
Hooray! I finally got around to getting the comment link up and running. Now you can write back, praise me for my intelligent comments, or tell me I'm wrong! I welcome any comments you may have. Who knows, perhaps an engaging debate will emerge on one of these topics!
News flash: America's teens read newspapers!, usaweekend.com, April 11, 2004
I opened the paper this norming and there it was: teens still find print journalism important!
The newspaper has tough competition with television, the Internet, magazines, and radio. While TV is turned to most, the newspaper is still considered an important source of news. With newspapers, teens seem to browse through and read the parts which interest or pertain to them. Many adults have the same approach.
In class we have a debate whether the newspaper will still be around in 20 years. It should still be around in some form. While teens aren't known for reading the paper, certain features have a strong following. The main items teens go for in the paper are entertainment and sports. It is figured that as teens grow into adults they will wander over to the critical stories and editorials.
There is hope for the future!
I opened the paper this norming and there it was: teens still find print journalism important!
The newspaper has tough competition with television, the Internet, magazines, and radio. While TV is turned to most, the newspaper is still considered an important source of news. With newspapers, teens seem to browse through and read the parts which interest or pertain to them. Many adults have the same approach.
In class we have a debate whether the newspaper will still be around in 20 years. It should still be around in some form. While teens aren't known for reading the paper, certain features have a strong following. The main items teens go for in the paper are entertainment and sports. It is figured that as teens grow into adults they will wander over to the critical stories and editorials.
There is hope for the future!
Friday, April 09, 2004
Joe, 7, bids £¾m for Power Ranger on ebay, thesun.co.uk, April 9, 2004
Here's a story that is just amusing. A seven year old boy in the UK bid £750,000 (about $1,350,000) for a Power Rangers toy and won (obviosly!). His mom was worried she would have to mortgage off her house to pay for the toy. Luckily, the seller was understanding and they did not have to pay. Lets just hope his mum learned a lesson about supervising kids on the Internet!
I miss these type of stories. UK journalism differs from American with the odd stories and gossip they publish. The local newspapers here are more comprehensive and it is nice to know what is going on locally. Yet, it is nice reading national news (from a much smaller nation) and amusing stories such as this one. That must be one great toy!
Here's a story that is just amusing. A seven year old boy in the UK bid £750,000 (about $1,350,000) for a Power Rangers toy and won (obviosly!). His mom was worried she would have to mortgage off her house to pay for the toy. Luckily, the seller was understanding and they did not have to pay. Lets just hope his mum learned a lesson about supervising kids on the Internet!
I miss these type of stories. UK journalism differs from American with the odd stories and gossip they publish. The local newspapers here are more comprehensive and it is nice to know what is going on locally. Yet, it is nice reading national news (from a much smaller nation) and amusing stories such as this one. That must be one great toy!
Wednesday, April 07, 2004
Child's Mohawk Causes Debate, CNN.com, April 5, 2004
A six year old boy was allowed to sport a blue mohawk by his parents as a reward for good grades. This did not go over well at school. The style is not allowed at school and the teacher made the boy wash out the color and his parents disagree with the actions. They say he needs to express his individuality.
I may be in the minority here, but aren't the parents going about this the wrong way? The school rules are in place, and should be respected. Instead, the parents are choosing to challenge authority. What lesson is he learning? A child needs to know that there are rules and consequences for breaking the rules. Instead, the parents have chosen to fight.
The blue mohawk is outside the norm and distracting to the other students. A six year old should not be concerned with expressing his individuality. If he does, it should be by his good grades or sports. The mohawk will cause people to stare at the boy, also causing social reprocussions. That is his choice, but the distraction affects others.
Translate this into the workplace. If an employee does not follow the dress code there are consequences. A society must have rules and boundaries. These parents are preparing him to be an adult. There is a time and a place for everything. The boy can have the hairstyle in the summer or on the weekends, but not at school. Rules are rules and he needs to follow them.
A six year old boy was allowed to sport a blue mohawk by his parents as a reward for good grades. This did not go over well at school. The style is not allowed at school and the teacher made the boy wash out the color and his parents disagree with the actions. They say he needs to express his individuality.
I may be in the minority here, but aren't the parents going about this the wrong way? The school rules are in place, and should be respected. Instead, the parents are choosing to challenge authority. What lesson is he learning? A child needs to know that there are rules and consequences for breaking the rules. Instead, the parents have chosen to fight.
The blue mohawk is outside the norm and distracting to the other students. A six year old should not be concerned with expressing his individuality. If he does, it should be by his good grades or sports. The mohawk will cause people to stare at the boy, also causing social reprocussions. That is his choice, but the distraction affects others.
Translate this into the workplace. If an employee does not follow the dress code there are consequences. A society must have rules and boundaries. These parents are preparing him to be an adult. There is a time and a place for everything. The boy can have the hairstyle in the summer or on the weekends, but not at school. Rules are rules and he needs to follow them.
Monday, April 05, 2004
Work Ethic
I am happy to know what goes around comes around. My co-worker has been letting the other lifeguard teach her water aerobic classes for weeks. She says she has been getting too many complaints so she just doesn't teach anymore. (What a great opportunity to sit on your butt for an additional hour!) If it were me, I would find out what I am doing wrong to warrant complaints, then try to fix it. Instead, some people just give up and let others do their work. She won't even talk to our boss about the situation.
Other lifeguards may be fine with this but I won't put up with it! I taught both classes, then told the boss what was happening. She is taking care of the situation by cutting back her hours. I am so glad to have a fair boss who takes care of problems.
Can you imagine working with someone who says, "I'm not good at it so you can do all the work". What are we paying you for?? Why should I make you look good? It all may be fine and dandy in the little world of the local pool, but in the real world slackers will not get far!
I am happy to know what goes around comes around. My co-worker has been letting the other lifeguard teach her water aerobic classes for weeks. She says she has been getting too many complaints so she just doesn't teach anymore. (What a great opportunity to sit on your butt for an additional hour!) If it were me, I would find out what I am doing wrong to warrant complaints, then try to fix it. Instead, some people just give up and let others do their work. She won't even talk to our boss about the situation.
Other lifeguards may be fine with this but I won't put up with it! I taught both classes, then told the boss what was happening. She is taking care of the situation by cutting back her hours. I am so glad to have a fair boss who takes care of problems.
Can you imagine working with someone who says, "I'm not good at it so you can do all the work". What are we paying you for?? Why should I make you look good? It all may be fine and dandy in the little world of the local pool, but in the real world slackers will not get far!
Friday, April 02, 2004
Minimum wage boost clears panel in Assembly, Sacbee.com, April 1, 2004
A bill has been proposed to raise California's minimum wage again in January. First to $7.25 and up again to $7.75! This makes me upset. Back in October I saw some people passing around a petition for this at Delta College. I refused to sign it. I work my way up above minimum wage through loyalty to the city and now that raise is not worth as much.
People feel that the minimum wage rate is unfair. The wage cannot support a family (it is not really meant to). Well why not raise it to $10 an hour? Is that fair? Or how about $20? That is even more fair! It will just cause inflation. Soon after a minimum wage hike, we start to notice an increase in prices. What's the point? We are just making this state even more expensive to live in than it already is. California's budget is already bad enough. Now prices will have to increase to pay the employees. People owning small businesses will have to lay people off. We can also expect more cuts in programs.
The second reason people want a higher minimum wage is due to the unions. This state is very unionized. They promise have employees working for say, four times the minimum wage. If minimum wage goes up $1, they get a $4 raise.
This state has gotten so expensive already. If I stay here I will expect to be paying higher prices in the future. That's why I value my education.
A bill has been proposed to raise California's minimum wage again in January. First to $7.25 and up again to $7.75! This makes me upset. Back in October I saw some people passing around a petition for this at Delta College. I refused to sign it. I work my way up above minimum wage through loyalty to the city and now that raise is not worth as much.
People feel that the minimum wage rate is unfair. The wage cannot support a family (it is not really meant to). Well why not raise it to $10 an hour? Is that fair? Or how about $20? That is even more fair! It will just cause inflation. Soon after a minimum wage hike, we start to notice an increase in prices. What's the point? We are just making this state even more expensive to live in than it already is. California's budget is already bad enough. Now prices will have to increase to pay the employees. People owning small businesses will have to lay people off. We can also expect more cuts in programs.
The second reason people want a higher minimum wage is due to the unions. This state is very unionized. They promise have employees working for say, four times the minimum wage. If minimum wage goes up $1, they get a $4 raise.
This state has gotten so expensive already. If I stay here I will expect to be paying higher prices in the future. That's why I value my education.
Thursday, April 01, 2004
Toddlers eat 'horrifying' diet, BBCNews, March 31, 2004
Children eat too much junk food! This article is from the BBC, which means the problem is in Britain too. Yet, America is the king of junk and large portions! 92% of toddlers are allowed to eat junk. What is to blame? Why, television of course! Those ads, they are just too corruptive and make the kids want to eat fast food.
I don't think so!
Sure, marketing to kids does have some effect, but it all comes down to the parents. Parents feed their kids junk for a few reasons. First, it is easier to serve processed foods than cook during our busy lives. Throw some chicken nuggets or Kraft Macaroni and Cheese into the microwave and food can be on the table in mere minutes.
Second, parents give in to their kids not eating so they don't throw a tantrum. One of my cousin's friends is 10 and he only eats chicken nuggets and french fries. Nothing else. I am not exaggerating. He won't eat anything and he is very small for his age because he doesn't receive essential nutrients.
Also, Americans as a whole are poor eaters. If parents have a poor diet, how do the kids stand a chance? Kids eat what their parents eat, which is junk as well! Yes, this is not the case for everyone, but the 92% in the study stands for something. These are toddlers! They don't know any better and will generally eat what they are fed. Once they get used to french fries it is harder to go back. It's like feeding a dog. A dog can build a taste for table scraps but if you do not allow it he can be content with the dog food he is given.
We give our kids a happy meal and put them in front of the TV. How much worse can it get? Less physical activity and junk food. This nation had better do something about it or the situation will continue to get worse. (From 92% to 100% perhaps?)
Children eat too much junk food! This article is from the BBC, which means the problem is in Britain too. Yet, America is the king of junk and large portions! 92% of toddlers are allowed to eat junk. What is to blame? Why, television of course! Those ads, they are just too corruptive and make the kids want to eat fast food.
I don't think so!
Sure, marketing to kids does have some effect, but it all comes down to the parents. Parents feed their kids junk for a few reasons. First, it is easier to serve processed foods than cook during our busy lives. Throw some chicken nuggets or Kraft Macaroni and Cheese into the microwave and food can be on the table in mere minutes.
Second, parents give in to their kids not eating so they don't throw a tantrum. One of my cousin's friends is 10 and he only eats chicken nuggets and french fries. Nothing else. I am not exaggerating. He won't eat anything and he is very small for his age because he doesn't receive essential nutrients.
Also, Americans as a whole are poor eaters. If parents have a poor diet, how do the kids stand a chance? Kids eat what their parents eat, which is junk as well! Yes, this is not the case for everyone, but the 92% in the study stands for something. These are toddlers! They don't know any better and will generally eat what they are fed. Once they get used to french fries it is harder to go back. It's like feeding a dog. A dog can build a taste for table scraps but if you do not allow it he can be content with the dog food he is given.
We give our kids a happy meal and put them in front of the TV. How much worse can it get? Less physical activity and junk food. This nation had better do something about it or the situation will continue to get worse. (From 92% to 100% perhaps?)
