December 7, 1941
On the quiet Sunday morning of December 7, 1941 no one would have thought that it would be the most devastating day in American history. Just before 8 am the Japanese surprise attacked the American military and naval forces at Pearl Harbor. There were two waves of Japanese airplanes that destroyed 18 of the US battleships and killed or wounded 3,500 American men. When the battleship, the USS Arizona, sank it took over 1,000 men down with it.
Were the Americans warned of this attack? It is said that the US cracked a code from the Japanese and could not get the message about the attack to Pearl Harbor in time. Even the day of the attack the Japanese planes came up on the radar, but were assumed to be US B-17s due to the fact they were flying into the West Coast. So, if the US knew about the surprise attack would they have been able to fight back against the Japanese?
Today, when you take a trip the serene shores of Oahu, you can visit the place where the tragic event happened. You will see the USS Arizona Memorial which was built over the sunken ship. To this day the ship leaks oil into the ocean, and you can see where the American flag flew on that dreadful day.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Santa Claus
Santa Claus is a mythical figure said to bring gifts to all the children of the world, granted they behave all year. The legend of Santa Claus was founded around the image of a monk called St. Nicholas popular around 280 A.D. St. Nicholas was famous for his kind ways and generous attitude. The name “Santa Claus” came from St. Nicholas’s Dutch nickname, Sinter Klass.
Santa Claus is generally depicted in modern American society as a plump jolly man with a red suit and hat, a large white beard, and a bag full of toys. This image first emerged in United States around the 19th century in a picture created by Thomas Nast, then a very popular political cartoonist. Santa is commonly depicted with a red sleigh and nine reindeer flying merrily through the sky.
Legend has it that Santa lands on each child’s roof, hops out of his sleigh with goodies galore, and somehow squeezes his oversized stomach down the chimney in order to leave gifts under the Christmas tree. This generally happens on Christmas Eve, December 24th. He lives at the North Pole with Mrs. Claus and hoards of obedient elves that exist to make toys for Santa.
The legend of Santa Claus is exciting for children; it gives them something to look forward to all year and is a persuasive tool that encourages good behavior. Santa Claus promotes gift giving, celebration, and Christmas cheer.
Santa Claus is popular in many countries, although he is known by a different name in most. He’s usually a symbol of Christmas, gift giving, and generosity and he remains popular with children to this day.
Santa Claus is generally depicted in modern American society as a plump jolly man with a red suit and hat, a large white beard, and a bag full of toys. This image first emerged in United States around the 19th century in a picture created by Thomas Nast, then a very popular political cartoonist. Santa is commonly depicted with a red sleigh and nine reindeer flying merrily through the sky.
Legend has it that Santa lands on each child’s roof, hops out of his sleigh with goodies galore, and somehow squeezes his oversized stomach down the chimney in order to leave gifts under the Christmas tree. This generally happens on Christmas Eve, December 24th. He lives at the North Pole with Mrs. Claus and hoards of obedient elves that exist to make toys for Santa.
The legend of Santa Claus is exciting for children; it gives them something to look forward to all year and is a persuasive tool that encourages good behavior. Santa Claus promotes gift giving, celebration, and Christmas cheer.
Santa Claus is popular in many countries, although he is known by a different name in most. He’s usually a symbol of Christmas, gift giving, and generosity and he remains popular with children to this day.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Leonard Peltier and the Pine Ridge Shootout
The Incident at Pine Ridge
The Pine Ridge Indian Reservation is a large plot of land located in the southwest corner of South Dakota. It was set aside by the United States government in 1889 for the Oglala Sioux Native American tribe and since then, has been mired in both financial and legal problems almost continually. Pine Ridge is the eighth largest reservation in the U.S. and also the poorest. Unemployment and suicide run rampant on the reservation and life expectancy for the area is the lowest in the country. With these facts, you can correctly surmise that crime is a major problem for the Native and U.S. government in and around Pine Ridge, South Dakota. One of the most well known shootouts in recent history occurred here in 1975.
On June 26th, 1975, two FBI agents, Jack Coler and Ron Williams, entered the reservation with the intention of arresting a young Native American for an earlier crime he was accused of. The tension had been running high between the FBI and AIM (the American Indian Movement) because of prior circumstances between Native American groups and the U.S. government dating back to the 1800’s. The Oglala Sioux regarded the two agent’s act as trespassing and the situation on the reservation declined quickly. A shootout between the two FBI agents and several members of the tribe began and the two agents were quickly caught in crossfire. The shootout ended sadly when residents of the reservation executed the two wounded men.
Much was (and still is) made about the search for the agent’s killer or killers. Two men, Robert Robideau and Dino Butler, turned themselves in after an extensive manhunt, and were acquitted on controversial evidence. Another man, Leonard Peltier, was caught and convicted of the murders. Peltier’s trial is the subject of much debate as there is feeling (whether perceived or real is up for questioning) that there was a lack of nominal evidence in his case and the verdict is tainted. Mr. Peltier currently resides in prison in Lewisburg, PA awaiting parole.
Michael Roberts
Section 005
The Pine Ridge Indian Reservation is a large plot of land located in the southwest corner of South Dakota. It was set aside by the United States government in 1889 for the Oglala Sioux Native American tribe and since then, has been mired in both financial and legal problems almost continually. Pine Ridge is the eighth largest reservation in the U.S. and also the poorest. Unemployment and suicide run rampant on the reservation and life expectancy for the area is the lowest in the country. With these facts, you can correctly surmise that crime is a major problem for the Native and U.S. government in and around Pine Ridge, South Dakota. One of the most well known shootouts in recent history occurred here in 1975.
On June 26th, 1975, two FBI agents, Jack Coler and Ron Williams, entered the reservation with the intention of arresting a young Native American for an earlier crime he was accused of. The tension had been running high between the FBI and AIM (the American Indian Movement) because of prior circumstances between Native American groups and the U.S. government dating back to the 1800’s. The Oglala Sioux regarded the two agent’s act as trespassing and the situation on the reservation declined quickly. A shootout between the two FBI agents and several members of the tribe began and the two agents were quickly caught in crossfire. The shootout ended sadly when residents of the reservation executed the two wounded men.
Much was (and still is) made about the search for the agent’s killer or killers. Two men, Robert Robideau and Dino Butler, turned themselves in after an extensive manhunt, and were acquitted on controversial evidence. Another man, Leonard Peltier, was caught and convicted of the murders. Peltier’s trial is the subject of much debate as there is feeling (whether perceived or real is up for questioning) that there was a lack of nominal evidence in his case and the verdict is tainted. Mr. Peltier currently resides in prison in Lewisburg, PA awaiting parole.
Michael Roberts
Section 005
Ther Black Plaque
Lindsay Ash
11-2-09
Eng-289-008
High School Textbook
Professor Domet
The Black Death
The Black Death was one of the deadliest pandemics in history. Within three years, from 1348 through 1351 it decimated half of Europe’s population, leading to religious, social, and economic upheaval. It would take 150 years for Europe’s population to recover. Having no defense against the pestilence or understanding of the cause of it, the people of Europe were devastated.
The Black Death likely began in Asia, and spread to Europe through trading routes. The disease was very contagious, and death occurred only a few days after symptoms began. The illness was bubonic plague, an organism carried by rodents and then transmitted by fleas to humans. Characteristics of the illness included swelling and infection of the lymph nodes, known as buboes. The blackish coloring of the skin due to the swellings is responsible for the name “The Black Death.” The virulence, the grotesque appearence of the victims, and the terrible pain, all served to make the disease especially terrifying.
Every part of the economy was disrupted by the plague. Financial business was disrupted since debtors died and could not pay their debts, often not only had just the debtor died, but the whole family, so there was no one to collect from. Construction projects stopped due to the shortage of skilled laborers. Farms and entire villages died out. Whole families died. Crops and animals died. The massive amount of death and devastation changed the way people viewed God. They wondered why he would allow such a massive loss of life to happen. Artistic style became macabre. Artists painted skeletons dancing with the living, and some sculpted half decomposing bodies.
The Black Plague devastated Europe in the fourteenth century. The virulence of the disease and the terrifying aftermath changed Europe for years to come.
11-2-09
Eng-289-008
High School Textbook
Professor Domet
The Black Death
The Black Death was one of the deadliest pandemics in history. Within three years, from 1348 through 1351 it decimated half of Europe’s population, leading to religious, social, and economic upheaval. It would take 150 years for Europe’s population to recover. Having no defense against the pestilence or understanding of the cause of it, the people of Europe were devastated.
The Black Death likely began in Asia, and spread to Europe through trading routes. The disease was very contagious, and death occurred only a few days after symptoms began. The illness was bubonic plague, an organism carried by rodents and then transmitted by fleas to humans. Characteristics of the illness included swelling and infection of the lymph nodes, known as buboes. The blackish coloring of the skin due to the swellings is responsible for the name “The Black Death.” The virulence, the grotesque appearence of the victims, and the terrible pain, all served to make the disease especially terrifying.
Every part of the economy was disrupted by the plague. Financial business was disrupted since debtors died and could not pay their debts, often not only had just the debtor died, but the whole family, so there was no one to collect from. Construction projects stopped due to the shortage of skilled laborers. Farms and entire villages died out. Whole families died. Crops and animals died. The massive amount of death and devastation changed the way people viewed God. They wondered why he would allow such a massive loss of life to happen. Artistic style became macabre. Artists painted skeletons dancing with the living, and some sculpted half decomposing bodies.
The Black Plague devastated Europe in the fourteenth century. The virulence of the disease and the terrifying aftermath changed Europe for years to come.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Portfolio II part III
Brent Archibald
Professor Domet
English 289 014
2 November 2009
The Obsession of Money
Warren Buffett the world’s second richest man is known for his incredibly large fortune. Today he is worth over $50 billion dollars more than some countries. However Warren Buffett’s fame and notoriety has grown right along with his bank account. His financial knowledge has influenced several books, websites, and influences the stock market in the investments he makes. This extreme wealth can be traced back to his hard work ethic back in high school delivering papers and reading about stocks. Warren has amassed his fortune largely by buying big brand name companies when they are what he considers cheap in the stock market. Some examples of the companies that he owns are Coca-Cola, Procter and Gamble, and Johnson & Johnson just to name a few. He can help young people to if you only pay attention to his frugal habits.
While we may not be as obsessed with making money there are many life lessons to be learned from a man like Warren Buffett. These lessons that we could learn from Buffett would benefit younger people. He believes that you should not own a credit card because of the serious amount of interest that they charge. Warren also believes in only buying what you need and not buying many toys. This is how he lives his life too. Consider this, he could buy anything in the world yet has only one car and a house he bought over forty years ago.
Warren reads on average six or more hours a day saying that there are billion dollar ideas in newspapers. Start early on saving your money and investing it is a huge piece of advice we can learn from one of the richest men in the world. Remember that Warren was young once too and lacked the knowledge and the income, but if you work hard and are determined to succeed you to will be an American success story. If more people follow Warrens lead at an earlier age, by not spending so much money they will be amazed at how a small amount of money can grow. Now let’s start today and maybe one day you too will have fifty billion in the bank.
Professor Domet
English 289 014
2 November 2009
The Obsession of Money
Warren Buffett the world’s second richest man is known for his incredibly large fortune. Today he is worth over $50 billion dollars more than some countries. However Warren Buffett’s fame and notoriety has grown right along with his bank account. His financial knowledge has influenced several books, websites, and influences the stock market in the investments he makes. This extreme wealth can be traced back to his hard work ethic back in high school delivering papers and reading about stocks. Warren has amassed his fortune largely by buying big brand name companies when they are what he considers cheap in the stock market. Some examples of the companies that he owns are Coca-Cola, Procter and Gamble, and Johnson & Johnson just to name a few. He can help young people to if you only pay attention to his frugal habits.
While we may not be as obsessed with making money there are many life lessons to be learned from a man like Warren Buffett. These lessons that we could learn from Buffett would benefit younger people. He believes that you should not own a credit card because of the serious amount of interest that they charge. Warren also believes in only buying what you need and not buying many toys. This is how he lives his life too. Consider this, he could buy anything in the world yet has only one car and a house he bought over forty years ago.
Warren reads on average six or more hours a day saying that there are billion dollar ideas in newspapers. Start early on saving your money and investing it is a huge piece of advice we can learn from one of the richest men in the world. Remember that Warren was young once too and lacked the knowledge and the income, but if you work hard and are determined to succeed you to will be an American success story. If more people follow Warrens lead at an earlier age, by not spending so much money they will be amazed at how a small amount of money can grow. Now let’s start today and maybe one day you too will have fifty billion in the bank.
The Short Life of a Legend
Lou Gehrig, the son of poor German immigrants living in Upper Manhattan, New York City, the only one of four children to survive infancy, became one of the greatest baseball players to ever live. Known to be a “mama’s boy” growing up, he did everything he could to fulfill her dreams for him.
She wanted him to consider engineering as a career, so Lou went to Columbia University to study. While at Columbia University he also played baseball. During his freshman year the Yankees offered him a contract and he took it; going against his mother’s wishes for the first time. He spent a couple of years in the Minors before making it to the Yankees squad in 1925. During his first game with the team he pinch hit. The next day he started at first base for the other first baseman, Wally Pipp, who had a headache. From that day on, Lou Gehrig played in 2,130 consecutive baseball games over a fifteen year period. Because of this incredible feat he acquired the nickname, “The Iron Horse.”
However, in the spring of 1939, Gehrig would start feeling weak and sluggish and unable to perform at such a high standard as he did the previous fourteen years. On May 2, 1939, Gehrig removed himself from the lineup and went to the famous Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Before leaving the clinic, doctors told Gehrig that he had an incurable form of paralysis named Amyotrophic Lateral Syndrome (ALS); now known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.
On July 4, 1939, less than a month after he found out he was terminally ill, fans held a Lou Gehrig Appreciation Day at Yankee Stadium. On this day, knowing he was going to die, in front of over 60,000 fans, he delivered his “Luckiest Man on the Face of the Earth” speech. On June 2, 1941, exactly sixteen years after his first game, Lou Gehrig passed away.
Nathan Blanton
Section 005
She wanted him to consider engineering as a career, so Lou went to Columbia University to study. While at Columbia University he also played baseball. During his freshman year the Yankees offered him a contract and he took it; going against his mother’s wishes for the first time. He spent a couple of years in the Minors before making it to the Yankees squad in 1925. During his first game with the team he pinch hit. The next day he started at first base for the other first baseman, Wally Pipp, who had a headache. From that day on, Lou Gehrig played in 2,130 consecutive baseball games over a fifteen year period. Because of this incredible feat he acquired the nickname, “The Iron Horse.”
However, in the spring of 1939, Gehrig would start feeling weak and sluggish and unable to perform at such a high standard as he did the previous fourteen years. On May 2, 1939, Gehrig removed himself from the lineup and went to the famous Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Before leaving the clinic, doctors told Gehrig that he had an incurable form of paralysis named Amyotrophic Lateral Syndrome (ALS); now known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.
On July 4, 1939, less than a month after he found out he was terminally ill, fans held a Lou Gehrig Appreciation Day at Yankee Stadium. On this day, knowing he was going to die, in front of over 60,000 fans, he delivered his “Luckiest Man on the Face of the Earth” speech. On June 2, 1941, exactly sixteen years after his first game, Lou Gehrig passed away.
Nathan Blanton
Section 005
On the evening of July 20th, 1969 a small lander called Eagle slowed itself as it descended toward the surface of the moon. The two men inside stood like the Wright brothers, not knowing the impact of their feats. Suddenly they spotted their incoming target. Instead of the level landing area in the Apollo 11 flight plan, they were aimed for an enormous crater, surrounded by large boulders.
The problem was not completely unexpected. Shortly after Armstrong and his companion had begun their dive for the surface, they checked against landmarks and realized that they were going to land some distance past their planned target. There were also other complications. Communications with earth had been breaking up. This unprecedented landing was the most dangerous part of the flight.
Armstrong said nothing to ground control about the incoming crater. Now the men in the control room in Houston realized something was wrong. Only 5% of Eagle's fuel remained. One minute to go and every man in the control center was holding his breath. Failure would be devastating now. Next came some famous words from Neil Armstrong, "Tranquillity Base here. The Eagle has landed."
Inside the spacecraft, Armstrong and Aldrin made sure they could get home again. Once set and ready, the two men stepped out of the Eagle, and set the American flag. Finally they exclaimed exactly what they had achieved, "That's one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind."
Bryan Pitstick
Section 014
The problem was not completely unexpected. Shortly after Armstrong and his companion had begun their dive for the surface, they checked against landmarks and realized that they were going to land some distance past their planned target. There were also other complications. Communications with earth had been breaking up. This unprecedented landing was the most dangerous part of the flight.
Armstrong said nothing to ground control about the incoming crater. Now the men in the control room in Houston realized something was wrong. Only 5% of Eagle's fuel remained. One minute to go and every man in the control center was holding his breath. Failure would be devastating now. Next came some famous words from Neil Armstrong, "Tranquillity Base here. The Eagle has landed."
Inside the spacecraft, Armstrong and Aldrin made sure they could get home again. Once set and ready, the two men stepped out of the Eagle, and set the American flag. Finally they exclaimed exactly what they had achieved, "That's one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind."
Bryan Pitstick
Section 014
Dancer/Singer Extraordinaire: Patrick Swayze
On August 18, 1952, in Houston, Texas, Patrick Wayne Swayze was born to Patricia and Jesse Swayze. Patrick was their second of five children; the Swayze's had three boys and two girls. During his middle school and high school years, he pursued numerous artistic and athletic skills. These included: ice skating, classical ballet, acting in school plays, football, martial arts, diving, and track. He moved to New York City in 1972 to finish his formal dance training at the Harkness Ballet and Joffrey ballet schools.
Shortly after finishing school, he started his career as a fill-in on Broadway's performance of Greece. This kick started his career in the movie and film industry. Some of his early acts were in The Outsiders and Red Dawn, where he gets his status for being a strong, attractive male actor. Not long after, he got his big breaks with his roles in Dirty Dancing and Ghost. He was nominated for Golden Globe Best Actor for his performance in both of these movies. His characters in these two hits landed him with the reputation for being an amazing dancer and a typical Hollywood actor. During this time he also wrote the song, performed in Dirty Dancing, "She's Like the Wind." Swayze continued to act and perform until near the end of his life.
In 2008, Patrick Swayze was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer. In the remaining few months of his life, he continued to shoot for the TV series, The Beast, and spent most of his time on his ranch in New Mexico with his wife, Lisa Niemi, of 33 years. The cancer eventually took his life on September 14, 2009 with his family by his side. He is remembered as the amazing dancer, actor, sing, and songwriter that he was.
Shortly after finishing school, he started his career as a fill-in on Broadway's performance of Greece. This kick started his career in the movie and film industry. Some of his early acts were in The Outsiders and Red Dawn, where he gets his status for being a strong, attractive male actor. Not long after, he got his big breaks with his roles in Dirty Dancing and Ghost. He was nominated for Golden Globe Best Actor for his performance in both of these movies. His characters in these two hits landed him with the reputation for being an amazing dancer and a typical Hollywood actor. During this time he also wrote the song, performed in Dirty Dancing, "She's Like the Wind." Swayze continued to act and perform until near the end of his life.
In 2008, Patrick Swayze was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer. In the remaining few months of his life, he continued to shoot for the TV series, The Beast, and spent most of his time on his ranch in New Mexico with his wife, Lisa Niemi, of 33 years. The cancer eventually took his life on September 14, 2009 with his family by his side. He is remembered as the amazing dancer, actor, sing, and songwriter that he was.
The Sinking Unsinkable
On Wednesday, April 10, 1912, the British shipping company White Star Line launched the maiden voyage of its largest passenger steamship to sail on the Atlantic: The RMS Titanic. The Titanic was deemed unsinkable, built in Ireland with the greatest technology of the time and equipped with two four-cylinder steam engines and one Parsons Turbine which powered three propellers. Fired by 159 furnaces, 29 boilers allowed for a maximum speed of 23 knots, a speed unheard of before the Titanic’s creation. The most luxurious of its kind, the Titanic carried the wealthiest of England, including millionaire businessman John Jacob Aster IV, millionaire activist Margaret “Molly” Brown and others, along with the White Star Line’s managing director Bruce J. Ismay and the ship’s builder Thomas Andrews. A total of 2,240 people were on board as the ship set sail on its journey from Southampton to New York.
On the fourth night of the voyage, despite receiving ice warnings from wireless radio operators and other ships, the Titanic failed to slow down and change direction in time to avoid an iceberg in its path. Travelling at approximately 20 knots, the Titanic struck the iceberg. Water poured into the bottom of the ship, filling five flood compartments—the ship only able to stay afloat with four flooded. The weight of the water caused the flooding of further compartments, giving the Titanic only two hours until it would be completely underwater. Passengers remained uninformed of the imminent danger that they were facing, and lifeboats left the ship at only half of their capacity with only women and children. Men made it into the lifeboats only if oarsmen were needed or in the absence of women.
At approximately 2:05a.m. April 15th, the entire bow of the ship was underwater, and within only five minutes, the stern of the ship rose into the air, the stress of it virtually tearing the ship in half. The Titanic had completely slipped beneath the water’s surface and fell to the ocean floor by 2:20a.m., leaving 1500 in the icy water, most dying of hypothermia within 15 minutes of exposure to the water. Only two of the 18 launched lifeboats rescued people after the ship sank, most afraid of being swarmed with people wanting to be saved and of any possible suction from the sinking ship. Of all 2,240 people on board the Titanic, there were only 706 survivors, who were later rescued by the Capathia and taken to New York.
The tragedy of the Titanic held a tremendous impact. According to the Hampshire Chronicle, approximately 1000 local families were directly affected, every street in the town losing around one member and approximately 500 households losing one resident. Memorials for those lost during the sinking can be found in Southampton, England and Washington D.C.
Alison J.
section 012
On the fourth night of the voyage, despite receiving ice warnings from wireless radio operators and other ships, the Titanic failed to slow down and change direction in time to avoid an iceberg in its path. Travelling at approximately 20 knots, the Titanic struck the iceberg. Water poured into the bottom of the ship, filling five flood compartments—the ship only able to stay afloat with four flooded. The weight of the water caused the flooding of further compartments, giving the Titanic only two hours until it would be completely underwater. Passengers remained uninformed of the imminent danger that they were facing, and lifeboats left the ship at only half of their capacity with only women and children. Men made it into the lifeboats only if oarsmen were needed or in the absence of women.
At approximately 2:05a.m. April 15th, the entire bow of the ship was underwater, and within only five minutes, the stern of the ship rose into the air, the stress of it virtually tearing the ship in half. The Titanic had completely slipped beneath the water’s surface and fell to the ocean floor by 2:20a.m., leaving 1500 in the icy water, most dying of hypothermia within 15 minutes of exposure to the water. Only two of the 18 launched lifeboats rescued people after the ship sank, most afraid of being swarmed with people wanting to be saved and of any possible suction from the sinking ship. Of all 2,240 people on board the Titanic, there were only 706 survivors, who were later rescued by the Capathia and taken to New York.
The tragedy of the Titanic held a tremendous impact. According to the Hampshire Chronicle, approximately 1000 local families were directly affected, every street in the town losing around one member and approximately 500 households losing one resident. Memorials for those lost during the sinking can be found in Southampton, England and Washington D.C.
Alison J.
section 012
The Life of Bob Dylan: An Innovative and Winding Road
Robert Allen Zimmerman was born on May 24, 1941 to Abe and Beatty Zimmerman in the city of Duluth, Minnesota. Better known today as Bob Dylan, Zimmerman changed his name in college when he started writing and performing music as a solo artist. Many believe that he changed his name in honor of the poet Dylan Thomas, although Bob Dylan refutes this belief.
In the early sixties, he decided to move to New York and really take control of his music career. One of his idols and inspirations was the legendary folk musician Woody Guthrie, and Dylan was able to visit Guthrie during his time in New York. This led Dylan down a musical path of a combination of folk and protest that was well received at that time in history. Songs such as “Blowin’ In The Wind” and “The Times They Are A-Changin’” are representative of this time in his musical career. He later decided to change his music to incorporate a more electric and rock and roll feel. The most identifiable and popular song from this period in his career is “Like A Rolling Stone” which was named the number one song of all time by Rolling Stone magazine in 2004. Later in life he became a Born-Again Christian and released three gospel albums.
Bob Dylan continued to create new and inspiring music throughout his life. His music is completely unique and he has effortlessly blended poetry with music. Unlike most of the music today, Dylan’s is more than catchy beats and upbeat lyrics; it has real soul and meaning. He takes the time to think about the perfect poetic words, set to the right sound, conveying his strongest beliefs. He even received an Academy Award for his song “Things Have Changed.” Although he is most notably known as a singer/songwriter, he is also an artist. The paintings from his Drawn Blank Series have been critically acclaimed and contain true masterpieces. Bob Dylan has accomplished so much in his life, and yet he is not even finished. He has been one the most popular and influential cultural icons of the last fifty years, and one that will forever transcend the bonds of time.
Stephanie Champness
Section 012
In the early sixties, he decided to move to New York and really take control of his music career. One of his idols and inspirations was the legendary folk musician Woody Guthrie, and Dylan was able to visit Guthrie during his time in New York. This led Dylan down a musical path of a combination of folk and protest that was well received at that time in history. Songs such as “Blowin’ In The Wind” and “The Times They Are A-Changin’” are representative of this time in his musical career. He later decided to change his music to incorporate a more electric and rock and roll feel. The most identifiable and popular song from this period in his career is “Like A Rolling Stone” which was named the number one song of all time by Rolling Stone magazine in 2004. Later in life he became a Born-Again Christian and released three gospel albums.
Bob Dylan continued to create new and inspiring music throughout his life. His music is completely unique and he has effortlessly blended poetry with music. Unlike most of the music today, Dylan’s is more than catchy beats and upbeat lyrics; it has real soul and meaning. He takes the time to think about the perfect poetic words, set to the right sound, conveying his strongest beliefs. He even received an Academy Award for his song “Things Have Changed.” Although he is most notably known as a singer/songwriter, he is also an artist. The paintings from his Drawn Blank Series have been critically acclaimed and contain true masterpieces. Bob Dylan has accomplished so much in his life, and yet he is not even finished. He has been one the most popular and influential cultural icons of the last fifty years, and one that will forever transcend the bonds of time.
Stephanie Champness
Section 012
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
The Great Depression
The Great Depression
On October 29, 1929, a catastrophic event occurred for the United States economy. The stock market crashed causing millions of people to lose their life savings and forced them to move to the streets. This event was known as the Great Depression. Although this event was a worldwide occurrence, it was the most prevalent in the United States of America.
October 29th was known as Black Tuesday because that was the day everyone realized the crash of the stock market. Although there were many causes to the failing of the stock market, the most important cause was that many had withdrawn too much money from the stock market. The cause of this is the lack of confidence in stock prices to rise.
During the next ten years, America would try to rebuild. At almost 25%, unemployment had never been so low. Franklin Delano Roosevelt took over office in 1932 as President and his plan was to have the government help out with the people’s financial dilemma. Roosevelt created jobs for people and created more assurance in the United States banking system.
By the end of Roosevelt’s second term, World War II was looming around and the U.S. needed to get ready for battle. This was when the economy noticeably turned around. The cause for this was newly created jobs both in creating defense weapons and also within the military itself. Many women were now working while their husbands were preparing for war.
The Start of World War II
(next article in textbook)
Neil Sanghvi
English 289 014
On October 29, 1929, a catastrophic event occurred for the United States economy. The stock market crashed causing millions of people to lose their life savings and forced them to move to the streets. This event was known as the Great Depression. Although this event was a worldwide occurrence, it was the most prevalent in the United States of America.
October 29th was known as Black Tuesday because that was the day everyone realized the crash of the stock market. Although there were many causes to the failing of the stock market, the most important cause was that many had withdrawn too much money from the stock market. The cause of this is the lack of confidence in stock prices to rise.
During the next ten years, America would try to rebuild. At almost 25%, unemployment had never been so low. Franklin Delano Roosevelt took over office in 1932 as President and his plan was to have the government help out with the people’s financial dilemma. Roosevelt created jobs for people and created more assurance in the United States banking system.
By the end of Roosevelt’s second term, World War II was looming around and the U.S. needed to get ready for battle. This was when the economy noticeably turned around. The cause for this was newly created jobs both in creating defense weapons and also within the military itself. Many women were now working while their husbands were preparing for war.
The Start of World War II
(next article in textbook)
Neil Sanghvi
English 289 014
The Cosby Show
The Cosby Show premiered on September 20, 1984. At the time of its debut, it was one of very few shows that portrayed blacks on television and the only to portray them living in the upper middle class. This alone was enough to separate the show from others during its time, and break the mode of certain stereotypes. Over the course of the series, it was able to break even more barriers and gain even greater success. The show set TV ratings success taking the number one spot in viewing for five years in a row. It paved the way for other new and innovative black sitcoms as well. The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and Family Matters were able to come in later years and continue to break some of the stereotypical modes. The series was based off of some of the standup acts of Bill Cosby. The show’s success, paved the way for other show’s to also be created from a comedian’s standup act. Roseanne, The Drew Carey Show, and Seinfeld are examples of later success stories. The series was not completely free of controversy, however, as some felt that the show didn’t delve into the issues of race enough during its eight year run. When looked at as a whole, however, the show has become a huge success and is a household name.
Stephanie Tevis
Section 012
Stephanie Tevis
Section 012
Ned Kelly and the Kelly Gang
Ned Kelly and the Kelly Gang are some of the most important and arguably the most popular people in Australian history. Ned Kelly was born in Australia in either 1854 or 1855 to an Irish convict father and had constant run-ins with the law throughout his life. Kelly is believed by many to have been framed by the police for various crimes that he did not and could not have committed simply because he was the son of a convict. Regardless an arrest warrant had been issued for Kelly causing him, his brother Dan Kelly and two of his friends, Joe Byrne and Steve Hart, to flee their home and become outlaws, robbing banks and killing policemen throughout the country. This eventually led to what is referred to as Ned Kelly’s Last Stand on June 28, 1880. At this event Ned and his gang had secured themselves within the Glenrowan Inn but had been surrounded by police. Already aware that the police were coming, the gang had designed armor for themselves that consisted of a full-headed helmet and enough metal to cover their torsos but not their legs. The armor was able to protect them for a while and allowed them to kill a number of police; however the whole Kelly gang was killed during the firefight except for Ned. Joe Byrne was shot by the police, while Steve Hart and Dan Kelly are rumored to have committed suicide within the hotel but regardless of whether they did or not both perished after the hotel caught on fire. Ned was eventually captured and hanged for his crimes later that year on November 11. To many people Ned Kelly is seen as a freedom fighter that stood up against corrupt authority; however he is also regarded by some to be nothing more than a selfish criminal.
Liam M. (Section 12)
Liam M. (Section 12)
Anna Wintour: Fashion’s Queen
Since 1988 when Anna Wintour began her reign as editor of the prestigious magazine, American Vogue, she has continuously proven herself to be ever powerful in the fashion industry. With this power has come many positive and negative stipulations. She influences virtually every aspect of the fashion world by using her magazine’s eminence as incentive to anyone willing to do things her way. Adhering to Wintour’s wishes usually leads to a spot in Vogue: every designer’s dream. She is persistent in getting what she wants and therefore is often seen as pushy, and pushy is just the tip of the iceberg. Anna has also been characterized as emotionless and heartless. Her reputation precedes her so much so that there have been films and novels made to portray her callousness. The Devil Wears Prada, released in 2006, is the most well known of the films made mocking her demeanor. This film, along with the other movies depicting Wintour, show an exaggerated version of her insensitivity, but they do not over exaggerate her role as a confident businesswoman and leader of fashion. She has truly left her mark on the world and her influence as well as the influence of Vogue will continue to affect lives for years to come.
Julie Chase
Section 012
Julie Chase
Section 012
The Death of Diana, Princess of Wales
On August 31, 1997, Diana, Princess of Wales, was tragically killed in a car accident in Paris, France. The Princess of Wales was only thirty-six-years-old. She entered the throne when she married Prince Charles in 1981. The Prince and Princess of Wales’ marriage lasted fifteen years. They had two sons together, Princes William and Harry. Both Prince Charles and Princess Diana admitted to infidelities during their union. The British people as well as people all over the world came to love Diana, though. She was an empathetic person who did a tremendous amount of charity work. The Princess was also quite stylish and many idolized her.
The night of her death, the Princess was with her boyfriend at the time, Dodi Al-Fayed, trying to escape the paparazzi. The driver, Henri Paul, ended up crashing in the Pont de l’Alma tunnel, killing himself along with Diana and Fayed. Many conspiracy theories followed Diana’s death. It was difficult for the world to accept that a woman they had adored had been killed, and people wanted someone to blame. One of the most popular conspiracy theories revolved around the Royal Family. It was rumored that Diana was pregnant with Fayed’s son, and the Royal Family was afraid of the Princes William and Harry of having Egyptian-Muslim step-siblings so they ordered for Diana’s assassination. This theory, along with many others, has been proven false over the years. It has become apparent that Diana was killed because of the paparazzi chasing down the car and the driver being intoxicated. Princess Diana and her death are still remembered today through a large variety of different mediums including books, songs, and films.
Jenna Beall
English 289 Section 012
The night of her death, the Princess was with her boyfriend at the time, Dodi Al-Fayed, trying to escape the paparazzi. The driver, Henri Paul, ended up crashing in the Pont de l’Alma tunnel, killing himself along with Diana and Fayed. Many conspiracy theories followed Diana’s death. It was difficult for the world to accept that a woman they had adored had been killed, and people wanted someone to blame. One of the most popular conspiracy theories revolved around the Royal Family. It was rumored that Diana was pregnant with Fayed’s son, and the Royal Family was afraid of the Princes William and Harry of having Egyptian-Muslim step-siblings so they ordered for Diana’s assassination. This theory, along with many others, has been proven false over the years. It has become apparent that Diana was killed because of the paparazzi chasing down the car and the driver being intoxicated. Princess Diana and her death are still remembered today through a large variety of different mediums including books, songs, and films.
Jenna Beall
English 289 Section 012
Monday, November 2, 2009
The Journey of Martin Luther King Jr.
Martin Luther King Jr. (1929-1968) led America through one of its biggest milestones in history: the Civil Rights Movement. His upbringing prepared him for the role he assumed in achieving equality and desegregation between the Black and White communities. King showed the dedication and portrayed the emotion that one would need to prove himself as the strong and successful leader that America will forever look back upon as a hero (Martin).
Raised in Georgia by his parents Martin Luther King Sr. (a Baptist preacher) and Alberta Williams King, MLK displayed extraordinary knowledge by graduating from High School at the age of fifteen. He furthered his education at Morehouse College where he received his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1948, his Bachelor of Divinity at Crozer Theological Seminary in 1951, and finally his doctorate at Boston University in 1955. MLK’s many accomplishments include the success of the long-lasting Montgomery Bus Boycott in 1956, his award of Man of the Year by Time magazine in 1963, and the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964 (Martin). MLK’s speech in Washington D.C. on August 28, 1963, most famously known as his “I Have a Dream” speech, was the major turning point for the Civil Rights Movement. The crowd roared with enthusiasm as MLK proclaimed his dream that his “four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character” (YouTube). That speech sent the most powerful message of all to Americans nation-wide: equality is the only option they will accept.
On April 4, 1968, MLK had been assassinated on his motel balcony the night before he was to give a speech to fight for the rights of the garbage workers of Memphis, Tennessee. MLK left behind his four children and his wife, Coretta. Today, in almost every major city there is a street named in his honor. Every third Monday of January, Americans observe the life he lived with a national holiday (Martin). America was so lucky as to have such an amazing man who fought for what he believed in so much that he died for his cause.
Julie Camp 012
Raised in Georgia by his parents Martin Luther King Sr. (a Baptist preacher) and Alberta Williams King, MLK displayed extraordinary knowledge by graduating from High School at the age of fifteen. He furthered his education at Morehouse College where he received his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1948, his Bachelor of Divinity at Crozer Theological Seminary in 1951, and finally his doctorate at Boston University in 1955. MLK’s many accomplishments include the success of the long-lasting Montgomery Bus Boycott in 1956, his award of Man of the Year by Time magazine in 1963, and the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964 (Martin). MLK’s speech in Washington D.C. on August 28, 1963, most famously known as his “I Have a Dream” speech, was the major turning point for the Civil Rights Movement. The crowd roared with enthusiasm as MLK proclaimed his dream that his “four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character” (YouTube). That speech sent the most powerful message of all to Americans nation-wide: equality is the only option they will accept.
On April 4, 1968, MLK had been assassinated on his motel balcony the night before he was to give a speech to fight for the rights of the garbage workers of Memphis, Tennessee. MLK left behind his four children and his wife, Coretta. Today, in almost every major city there is a street named in his honor. Every third Monday of January, Americans observe the life he lived with a national holiday (Martin). America was so lucky as to have such an amazing man who fought for what he believed in so much that he died for his cause.
Julie Camp 012
Jimi Hendrix: Devoted Musician of his Time
Jimi Hendrix was a man of great magnitude during his era of musical reign. He began his life in the city of Seattle, Washington. His father was an army man, so his mom took care of him as best she could. When his father returned from the army, his mother died shortly thereafter so he was raised by his father Al Hendrix. Jimi grew up to be a fine man and went to serve the United States in the army for a year before his musical career began unfolding.
Jimi Hendrix was a blues/RB artist, who wrote songs about life and struggles. His friend, Billy Cox, and him decided to go into music together, for they had both self learned how to play the guitar well. They began playing at various shows in smaller cities, not able to catch that big break they both desperately needed. Jimi went to New York in hopes of a better shot at fame and glory, and used a friend, Pridgeon, to redeem insider connections to the city life. The first big performer he shared a stage with was Curtis Knight, and the two released the single hit, “Help Me (Get That Feeling).” Jimi then decided to form his own band and named it Jimmy James and the Blue Flames. When this attempt for fame did not go over well, he put his life in the hands of producer
Chas Chandler, who changed the band to The Jimi Hendrix Experience, and brought massive quantities of fame to them.
After a great deal of success in the UK, the US finally got into his music. This wasn’t until they band name was changed to Gypsy Sun and Rainbows. They toured around for a bit, before really hitting it off at the music festival Woodstock. This was one of their biggest shows, playing for approximately one hundred and eighty thousand fans. Jimi began to be widely known and from there produced several hits like “Purple Haze,” “The Last Experience,” and “The Sunshine of your Love.” Jimi Hendrix’s death is still a mystery, but many believe it was due to an accidental overdose on sleeping pills.
Jimi Hendrix was an inspiring figure of the time whose guitar skills have gone nearly untouched by artists of the day. His music continues to thrive, as his records are still mass produced. Hendrix was the Elvis of blues and derived the soul out of life to put into his music.
Julie Davis 012
Jimi Hendrix was a blues/RB artist, who wrote songs about life and struggles. His friend, Billy Cox, and him decided to go into music together, for they had both self learned how to play the guitar well. They began playing at various shows in smaller cities, not able to catch that big break they both desperately needed. Jimi went to New York in hopes of a better shot at fame and glory, and used a friend, Pridgeon, to redeem insider connections to the city life. The first big performer he shared a stage with was Curtis Knight, and the two released the single hit, “Help Me (Get That Feeling).” Jimi then decided to form his own band and named it Jimmy James and the Blue Flames. When this attempt for fame did not go over well, he put his life in the hands of producer
Chas Chandler, who changed the band to The Jimi Hendrix Experience, and brought massive quantities of fame to them.
After a great deal of success in the UK, the US finally got into his music. This wasn’t until they band name was changed to Gypsy Sun and Rainbows. They toured around for a bit, before really hitting it off at the music festival Woodstock. This was one of their biggest shows, playing for approximately one hundred and eighty thousand fans. Jimi began to be widely known and from there produced several hits like “Purple Haze,” “The Last Experience,” and “The Sunshine of your Love.” Jimi Hendrix’s death is still a mystery, but many believe it was due to an accidental overdose on sleeping pills.
Jimi Hendrix was an inspiring figure of the time whose guitar skills have gone nearly untouched by artists of the day. His music continues to thrive, as his records are still mass produced. Hendrix was the Elvis of blues and derived the soul out of life to put into his music.
Julie Davis 012
Portfolio Two: JFK Assassination
The date was November 22nd, 1963 and it was a cold autumn day in Dallas, Texas. The President of the United States, John Fitzgerald Kennedy and his wife Jackie, were preparing for their appearance during a parade planned in the city. They got into their 1961 Lincoln Continental and were on their way following the parade route in downtown Dallas. No one could have imagined what was to transpire in the next few hours.
At around 12:30 in the afternoon, a single “crack” was heard coming from the near vicinity of the plaza. The President, as well as the other people in the featured car looked around for the origin of the sound. Some of the occupants, including the Governor of Texas, knew that it was the sound of a gun being fired. The President was not prepared what was still to come.
Another shot was heard, and it was determined that it had come from behind the motorcade, because when JFK was hit, the bullet entered his back and exited through his neck. Although it is still under an enormous amount of controversy, it was found that the same bullet hit the Governor of Texas in the thigh, arm, wrist, and ribs. This theory of the second non-fatal shot can also be know as the “Magic Bullet Theory.”
Controversy surrounds the death and even trials were held to see if a conspiracy was to blame. This trial was also called the Warren Commission and the trials are the subject of Oliver Stone’s motion picture “JFK”.
Kennedy was one of the most beloved Presidents in our nation’s history and even though his life is ended, his legacy will live on for centuries to come.
Max E. Hurley
Eng. 289 Section 005
At around 12:30 in the afternoon, a single “crack” was heard coming from the near vicinity of the plaza. The President, as well as the other people in the featured car looked around for the origin of the sound. Some of the occupants, including the Governor of Texas, knew that it was the sound of a gun being fired. The President was not prepared what was still to come.
Another shot was heard, and it was determined that it had come from behind the motorcade, because when JFK was hit, the bullet entered his back and exited through his neck. Although it is still under an enormous amount of controversy, it was found that the same bullet hit the Governor of Texas in the thigh, arm, wrist, and ribs. This theory of the second non-fatal shot can also be know as the “Magic Bullet Theory.”
Controversy surrounds the death and even trials were held to see if a conspiracy was to blame. This trial was also called the Warren Commission and the trials are the subject of Oliver Stone’s motion picture “JFK”.
Kennedy was one of the most beloved Presidents in our nation’s history and even though his life is ended, his legacy will live on for centuries to come.
Max E. Hurley
Eng. 289 Section 005
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