R3-Think about it

                Mr. Currin is kind of a big deal...true or false...?  I think that Mr. Currin is as big of a deal as Tim Horton’s coming to Alden.  I don’t want to respectfully bash Mr. Currin about his big ego, overly loud voice, or always yearning to be in the spot light. My final say on the is topic is a simple statement dedicated to Mr. Currin- Mr. Currin, you’ll never be as Alden High famous, as the one the only Mrs. Lori Gramza.

                For this topic, I wanted to discuss the latest news in Buffalo, the Corasanti trail. As the verdict went public on June 2^nd the words “not guilty” were the only things said on that night. Corasanti was still a free man and wouldn’t be facing any type of jail time. As news spread most people became enraged with jury’s verdict. “How can a murder and drunk driver be set free” many ask.

Yes, it is true that Corasanti was five times over the legal drinking limit five hours later. The front of his car had a massive impact on the right side. He left the scene of the crime and tampered with evidence by erasing text messages. It seemed like an open and shut case, Corasanti should be in jail for the many crimes he committed. Then why isn’t he? Was it because he an amazing legal team? He is a wealthy doctor? Unfortunately we will never know what was going to each and every juriers minds.

However none of us were in that court room, we don’t know what was said, what the witness stated or how what evidence was brought in. The only source of our information was the reporters sitting in that court room. Unfortunately the news may have blown things out of proportion just a tad.

I am not sticking up for Corasanti or think that he should be walking free, however we don’t know what was said and what everyone in the room was thinking. But what many people aren’t realizing is that Corasanti is being punished, he is now labeled. Every day he wakes up as a free man in a sense, his family has been labeled; everyone close to him is effect. The next time any of them want to have a glass of wine with dinner they are being stared down and judged. Sometimes I think that is worse than being in jail because in jail every has a label for life, while in the real word that label is as big as a billboard.

R1-104 Days of Summer

What is the best part of the end of the school year? It is honestly hard to identify which one is the best. I love every little bit of it, I love the freedom, the reduce in stress levels, and most of all not- setting an alarm. When school is coming to a close it is the universal sign of summer. Hot summer days spent soaking up some vitamin D and doing some much needed R&R. While our summer nights are full of bonfires, s’mores, late night swims, and the ability to not think about getting up the next morning for school. Every day of summer is the freedom to spend the day of whatever you wish. The possibilities are endless. Another great feeling that is centered around the end of the school year is the feeling of accomplishment. After ten long months of long nights of countless nights studying, homework and sports/ clubs, is knowing that you past another year of school. You’re that much closer to graduating, you have learned so much and having the feeling of being ready to take on whatever chapter is next in your life.

However with all of those great things that come with summer and the end of a school year, there are some draw backs. Friendships fade, motivation is at an all-time low, and laziness is at a record high. We stop seeing our friends because school was our socialization, we stop working hard for things that need to be earned and we just turn into the typical teenager who doesn’t wake up before noon, and doesn’t have a problem watching tv for entire day. During this upcoming summer try not too just be that typical teen, get a job, get involved with volunteering, make every day eventful. When summer comes to an end there will still be that one thing on our wish list that doesn’t get a check. Instead of wasting the next 104 of summer, make every day a new adventure.

M1-Irish Dancing

St. Patrick’s Day has always been a big deal to me. Being Irish it is nice to celebrate your heritage. For a few years I took Irish dancing lessons. When I was a little girl my favorite thing to watch was a tape of Riverdance. I would watch it over and over again and try to mimic what I saw. Finally my parents put me in to lessons with Rince Na Tiarna, and it was so amazing to actually learn how to dance instead of watching it on TV.  After two years of dancing my class was asked to walk and dance in the St. Patrick’s Day parade in downtown Buffalo. I never thought that I would be given that opportunity. But it was one of the best days of my life, despite the weather.

The night before I was preparing the routine. While I was thinking, my mom had to curl my whole head in foam curlers that I would have to sleep in. It took about 2 hours just to put the curlers in my hair, and we even ran out a few times and we had to run to the store to get more, but it was worth it. After my hair was done I had to learn how to tie my ghillies. The ghillies are a soft shoe that only has a thin piece of leather covering the bass of your foot.  By the end of the night I master how to tie my shoes (which are actually quite complicated to tie) and my dance routine. The next day, to my surprise it was pouring rain! Great!...Not! When I got to the parade, I was amazed to see so many Irish dancers and I couldn’t believe that I had the opportunity to dance with them. Then I was told that I would have to walk/ skip for the entire thing and that we would do our routine when we passed the judges. After the long walk my hair was ruinded, my feet soaking wet and in so much pain from practically walking bare foot on the street, but I didn’t care. If it was up to me I would have done it all over again and wouldn’t change a thing.

Even though I am no longer an Irish dancer (because I thought cheerleading was cooler) I still remember everything I was taught. Looking back, I’m glad I was giving such a great opportunity and I was able to celebrate my heritage in the best way!  

M1-

Hmm, I have had a great deal of embarrassing moments, but there is one moment that I will never forget.  I ALMOST burnt down my house!

When I was a little kid, probably only about seven years old, I was obsessed with Barbie’s! Every day during the summer most of the neighborhood girls would come over and play Barbie’s. But was just play with the dolls then clean it up, no it was much much more. We made my whole basement in to a Barbie town. Each person had their own house, and jobs, we even printed out money and bills. One day the power had gone out and because my basement didn’t have any windows we were used candles. As me and little Sara Steffan (yes Michael’s older sister) were setting up the candles and flash lights. I thought it would be a great idea to put a candle stick near my hot pink and bright blue Barbie dream house. For some odd reason me and Sarah had to run up stairs for a minute, leaving the candles unattended.  When we returned the whole Barbie house was on fire, and it was right next to the wall! My aunt, who also played with us screamed at me to get water. But what did I do? I went in the next room and sat on the couch freaking out. When my aunt came out of the room looking for me, she realized that I didn’t do what I was told. She pulled off the couch and sprung to action. I ran upstairs to tell my dad that the house was on fire.  Unfortunately he was sleeping and my screaming about the house being on fire didn’t wake him, because his response was “clean it up when you’re done.” Luckily we put out the fire, but the only thing that survived was a Barbie and a plate. After that and still to this day I am not allowed to be left alone with candles.

Q3-Life Lessions

Over the past four years we have all read countless amounts of novels, plays, poems, and short stories in English class. One of my favorite English assignments was in ninth grade what I enjoyed the timeless play Romeo and Juliet by William Sheakerspere. Every young girl knows the story of the two star crossed lovers, and the great ricks they took to be together. Even though it was written over 100 years ago it still impacts us today. We are all fascinated with the mystery behind the story. It is still a major influence in movies, music and books today. I believe the reason I enjoyed Romeo and Juliet so much is because people can still relate to it in today’s world, it is timeless.

Another all-time favorite book we read was Ellen Foster by Kay Gibbions. The short novel impacted my life tremulously. It opened my eyes to how grateful I truly am for the life I have. It also taught me how to stay positive in life. Ellen has had such a horrible patch in her life, and she used it to her advantage by learning how to be strong, and trust is earned not given. For a young 12 year old girl she has more life lessons that most of us will ever have.

Finally, the last novel that impacted me the most was Tuesdays with Morrie. It truly did answer life’s most difficult questions. It was truly amazing that one man had all this knowledge about life, love, religion, society, regret, family, and much more.  Morrie truly is a teacher till the end, because this book his spoken words are helping people all around the world. It applies to every culture, ethnicity, race and religion. I am very grateful that Mrs. Scheafer and Mrs. Gramza pick that book because we all took something from it, and will cherish it forever. Overall over the past few years, and countless book we read, there is always a life lesson hidden somewhere. It is just our job to find.

P5-I Dare You

For this choice blog I have decided to write about the topic of life. We are all at that certain age where we aren’t quite sure who we are yet in life. We don’t know what are main purposes in life is, or what we even want to accomplish. Being an adolescent can be difficult, we are all self-conscious, we all worry about what others think, we all care. I think the media has impacted us more than other except. In this day of age everything is centered about the media, it is so easy to communicate with people, but with things like that we are done really alone. We have our cell phones on us at all times, we are constantly watching TV, or listening to music. When was the last time that any of us were truly alone? I think that because nothing is really ever personal and everyone knows everything about everybody. It has started to affect us in a negative light. I think it is healthy for one day we turn off our cell phones, unplug the TV, silence out radios, and just think. We can never truly be happy with the decisions we make in life if we are never confident in ourselves and forget about what other think.

So if you’re reading this blog, i challenge you. Take one day, 24 hours of being completely alone. No cell phone, no music, no TV, no internet, no talking to anyone (even your parents). Use that day to reflect about your life, find the positives and negatives. If there is something that you don’t like find a way to change it for the better. Concentrate on your positives, look in the mirror and be happy about being the person you are. Try to be confident in the decision you make weather they are in the past, present, and even the ones to come. So take the challenge, I dare you.

Q1-It's Time!

For this choice blog I decided to take a moment and talk about something that is important to each and every one of us, graduation. With only 18 days of school days remaining and the tragic senioritis is starting to set in. It’s crazy to think that in just a few weeks we will all walk the halls of Alden High one last time. The teachers we came to know and love won’t be there for us when we need them the most. Our best friends now could become a distant memory in just a few months. We are all going down our new paths in life. Who knows someone we could have graduated could become the next movie star, musician, writer, or even president.

High school is just one chapter in our life. It is a place that we learned who are friends are, what we are most interested in, and a place where we could grow; but every flower needs room to blossom. The past four years have been filled with so many life lessons that we will always remember. Looking back on 9^th grade we were all scared, not knowing how to open our lockers, who we should talk too, and most importantly trying not getting lost in the halls. We all feared the Seniors, the rumored Freshman Fridays, and even getting booed at, at all of our school assemblies. We all thought that high school was going to be the best adventure of our lives, and when people told us “the next four years go by in a blink of an eye”. We didn’t believe them.

Well here we are, 18 days left. 18 days until we cross that stage will our family, friends, and the teachers who impacted us, watch us take our final steps as a high school student. So with everything changing and the norm, no longer being the norm, it is this time that we must prepare ourselves and make sure that we are truly ready to take that final step. The one that starts as just a high school student, and ends with becoming an adult. At college no one will be there to wake us up in the morning, force us to do our homework, or even show up to class. What our reputation was here in these walls won’t follow us anywhere else. With all that being said, Class of 2012 I hope you’re ready!

Q2- Here Comes the Summer!

          During this time of the year, I never completely understood why people were so excited about the summer; however my opinion has done a complete 180. In past summers I was usually pretty bored with the mass amount of free time. School was one thing that forced me to be focused and motivates, it was also a great place to socialize. I had to opportunity to see my friends every day, but during the summer you stop talking to nearly all of them.  Nevertheless, the countdown has begun for summer of 2012! I’m looking forward to relaxing while catching some sun, as well as graduating and being ready to take on next chapter of my life. This summer I have so many plans it is hard to keep track. I recently have gotten a job, been asked to coach three cheerleading teams, and even a  few vacations as well, all while planning my aunts wedding.  Every summer I have gone to Virginia Beach with my family the week before school starts, it has been our little tradition to say goodbye to summer. While this summer it is going to be a little different. I will be going to Virginia Beach, but I’m taking a few of my friends with me, before we separate for college. I also will be going camping for a week in Allegany. I love camping; it is so relaxed and low-key. It is nice to around the campfire surrounded by friends and family. I also will be starting college. I might not be dorming but I am still very excited to start new class, and meet new people.

                Overall I don’t know what the future will hold, but I’m excited to take on whatever comes my way this summer, the good and bad. (I need three words)

P3

After reading this article I was shocked. I don’t think that all the blame should be put on the teacher. The blame should be on the student and their parents. The student, parents, and teachers should work together as a team if the student is having problems in school. I believe that most people don’t test well. I am one of those students, I can study for weeks, but as soon as I get the test in front of me all the information is gone. I know the information, but my test grades don’t reflect it. There are so many great teachers out there who do everything in their power to educate their students to the best of their ability. We should be applauding those teachers for going the extra mile, not worrying them over how their students test. I also thing that the Obama administration doesn’t know what’s going on in the classroom, people elected him as our president, not our teacher.  

I do however agree that there are some schools that have let education slip. Down south it is the curriculum is horrible. Instead of blaming the teachers, our country should have a common curriculum. New York is one of the smartest states, and in the high school we attend, Alden is ranked in the top ten for Western New York.  Overall I think the blame should be on everyone not just one particular set of people. It is true that out country is not the smartest, but with things such as a common curriculum, access to more hands on learning. I think we can true our education around. But the students have to be willingly and that’s half the battle.

Here in Alden we are blesses to have a great teaching staff, a ALC, which most school don’t have, a guidance office and our principles do everything in their power to help put us on the right track for the future.

P2

                Looking back, from the goals I set in September I believe I did a satisfactory job.  I did become a little bit more outgoing and participated in activates I wouldn’t rather do in the past. During this year I have learned many things about myself. It is weird to think that next year during this time I will be in college. This is only my fourth year in the public school system. From the young age of three I attended St. John’s. When I first arrived here at Alden High, I was shy, scared, and I didn’t know how to act like myself. I let myself become completely focused on being liked by everyone. However I learned now that can never happen. It is better to be yourself and happy, then be someone you’re not and be liked by everyone. It is proven that you can’t please everyone, so a word of advice, stop trying. At SJS my graduating class was a grand total of five, including myself. Most of my classmates I have been with me every year from the beginning.  They became more like family, the class mates. My freshman year I was terrified to talk to anyone new and epically met new people. Even though it took my four years to come out my shell, I am glad I met people that will always have my back and will be my friends till the end. They say that college is the most memorable time of your life. That might be true and I can’t wait to figure out that next chapter of my life. But I wouldn’t under estimate high school. It is a great time in everyone lives where they get the chance to fund themselves and what they want from life. So overall I think I have accomplished things I never thought I could.

P5- Really?

A few weeks ago everyone on Facebook and twitter was posting KONY 2012. Walking through the halls it is all that everyone was talking about. It amazed me how many people were serious about making a difference. It sparked discussions in class, and got the youth involved with the government. People rallied together to put an end to this horrible event and to make a difference.

But what happened?

The media was covered by KONY supports, how the government was involved, and it seemed like even us- the youth- could actually make a difference in the world. But now all of this excitement and attention has practically disappeared. We no longer see posts on the internet, the news covering the government and what happened to those discussions in school? They vanished. I find it ironic that the head of the KONY campaign was not in the next video, just because he made one mistake. Unfortunately we live in a world where “celebrities” are our role models, and as soon as one of them makes a single mistake we turn our backs on them. If this were to happen to someone in Alden, nothing would occur. I think what some people forget that everyone is only human. Yes we all make mistakes, we all have screw ups, but we all learn from them. Jason Russell made a single mistake. He was under the influence of alcohol. He is legally allowed to drink; he was not driving intoxicated, or endangering anyone. He did make a bad choice to consume too much alcohol, and now he lost everything.  I do agree that he should take full responsibility but for everyone to turn their backs on someone, who is only human, I think it horrible. Now, we no longer hear anything about KONY, we moved on to something else.

Overall, I think we are all just needed to be reminded that everyone is only human, we have flaws. So the next time someone makes a mistake in the public eye, remember that they are just human.

O4- My Mother Is...

My mother is the sweetest person I know. I have always looked up to her and see her as a role model. Growing up she taught be so much, she taught me to be a good person, to be responsible, and to stink up for yourself. She is the type of person who will tell you how she feels, and always be honest with you. I don’t think I have never seen her not speak her mind. I personally that is a good or bad thing. I believe that it is good when someone needs the honest truth, but no one is willing to say it. However sometimes people don’t want to know your opinion and want you to mind your own business. She has such a great work ethic. I always see her going above and beyond what her job requires and doing it with a smile on her face. But sometimes it stresses her out, my mother is a perfectionist and when it isn’t done to the way she want, she will let you know as she is redoing it herself. My mom is always doing everything she can do for her family. She was at every one of my cheerleading competitions, science fairs, and dance recitals. She always so caring in the way she wants to know about your day and can’t wait to hear all about it. She sacrifices so much, to make me and my sister happy, even if that involves staying out late to see a movie or sitting threw a concert for a band that she doesn’t like. My mom is always trying her best and that’s anyone could ever ask of her. I love my mom so much and I can’t wait to be a mom myself so I can follow her in footsteps.   

O3- Generation Gap

We have all heard it from our parents at one time or another, “you wouldn’t last one day in the adult world.” But things have changed since our parents have been high school, and I think it is more difficult then they believe. During the 80s when most of our parents were in high school, there was barely any technology. There were pay phones, computers were this new age creations, and cell phones- forget it. However in high school today I believe things are ten times more difficult than before. Our world is centered around the internet and media. Things such as Facebook and Twitter have become our source of entertainment. Nothing is private anymore, we live in a world were secrets aren’t secrets anymore. Anything we say to our friends, or text, or post, is instantly everyone else’s business.  Rumors spread like wildfire, and people you don’t even talk to, you know everything about them. Not to mention it always seem like everyone is judging.

                Back in the 80’s people didn’t have computers in their pocket, like we have today. Skype was something some people thought was impossible. When you told someone your secret, it was kept. There weren’t curfews for driving, or being at the mall without supervision.  I’m not saying that there were some of their own issues, but everything was not so public. Everyday teenagers are looked down upon as rebels, crazy, or a bad influence. However I think most people underestimate us. There as much on our plates as adults, but it just different. We are in school seven hours a day, five days a week. That’s not including homework and study time. We are sometimes forced to get a job, try out for a sport, and we still try to have a social life. As well as the typical teenager things such as drama with friends, relationships, money and trying to establish a good relationship with your parents; the list is endless.  

In conclusion, I think we as teenagers are underestimated, with how we live our life. I personally believe that most of the teenage population behaves really well dealing with the circumstances. So the next time you hear that line, say “times have changed and our generations are different.”  But remember to say it in a nice way, or risk being grounded.

O2

After reading this article I realized that the unemployment rate wasn’t just affecting the United States. We are constantly talking about how high the employment rate is, but we are lucky compared to other countries from around the world. It is all over the news and media about our unemployment rate. We ask the government what they will do once elected to try to fix this issue. The people that have jobs always have to suffer from that constant worry and being fired, due to cut backs.

After graduating from college, most students have a dead end job to support themselves until they can get a job in the career they chose.  It is common for many students to not have a job lined up after graduating college, but I never thought that there are some places that people will never get a job. It is truly shocking that some places have been stuck at 20% unemployment rate for nearly two decades. However, even though the unemployment rate might be high, it is still proven that in this day in age everyone is required to have a college degree for jobs that pay more. Back 30 years ago college was something that most people did fine without, unfortunately if you don’t attend college then the jobs you can apply for cut by almost half.

Even though this artic says that college might not be the best idea, I disagree. Yes, it is expensive but the doors it can open are priceless. With a college degree so many things are at your disposable, such as, a life time career and a higher salary. When it comes down to it, college is an investment in your furfure and if it was up to me I would not take that gamble. College can cause mass amounts of debt but the payoff is worth it.    

O1-Bullying Those Who Can't Speak

After search many article titles I found one that shocked me.  NJ teacher calls bullying claims 'disingenuous' on the CNN website. The article is about a dad Stuart Chaifetz and his ten year old son Akian who was diagnosed with autism. Chaifetz started to receive complains about his son acting out and hitting teachers in school. This was immediate red flag for the family because Akian never had any problems with teachers in the past. Most kids would tell their parents what was happening at school, for hope of fixing the issue. However Akain, struggles with speaking and couldn’t commutate the issue. After six months, and Akain’s behavior increasing getting worse Chaifetz wired his son to see what was going on behind closed doors.  Chaifetz was horrified from what he heard when he son came home. His teachers were verbally abusing his son.  Some of the things he heard were “Shut your mouth” and conversations talking about sex and drinking. The worst part of the six and half hour tapes were hearing his son crying and screaming.

Once I finished reading and watching videos on this subject, I was truly appealed.  All students should feel safe and welcome at school by the teachers and staff, not being abused.  Students who have special needs should have the highest care possible. There are many great programs that are available for those students, but what really happens when no one is watching? I am glad that Chaifetz was smart enough to realize something went terribly wrong and took it into his own hands. To think that there are teachers out there who would treat people who can’t speak for themselves that way is terrible.  There is a time and a place for those types of conversations and it should be done away from school grounds.  I hope that people will rally together to stand up with those with special needs who can’t take matters into their own hands.

However it does seem that teachers have been under the microscope lately. There are wonderful teachers out there and many of them are here in Alden. We are truly lucky to attend a school who has a staff that takes our education and environment every seriously.

P1- TV

How much television do I watch?

                For me personally it all depends on my schedule. In the past few years all of my free time was occupied with watching TV. During the school year the hours I spent in front of the TV were drastically reduced. Most of my time was filled with school, homework and extra circulars. While during the summer I would spend every waking moment I had in front of the TV. Once school ended and most of the things I was involved in also ended.  There were some days were I could easily watch 14 hours of TV.  Looking back it is disgusting how much time I wasted on the couch in front of a television.  It became so bad, that I could repeat every commercial, TV show, and even tells you the daily scheduling for each channel.  But that was back when I was in 8^th and 9^th grade, instead of watching that much TV I use my time to read. When I was younger I couldn’t read very well, so I would try to avoid it as much as possible. I found that I really enjoy reading and it is so much heather then sitting in front of the TV. Today I usually will only watch about a two hours of TV during the school/ work week, and during the weekends four hours of TV a day.

What do I watch?

                Even from a young age the shows I watch haven’t really changed. All my life my favorite televisions stations were the Food Network, ABC Family, TLC, Animal Planet, and Disney Channel.  I have a little sister so Disney, Nick, or Cartoon Network is usually on. My favorite shows are usually on ABC Family, such as Pretty Little Lairs, Jane by Design, Switched at Birth, and The Lying Game, as well as Dance Moms on Lifetime and Glee on Fox.  

How many televisions are in my home?

                In my house we have three televisions, one in our living room, one the man cave, and I have a small one in my room. My house is a small three bedroom ranch, so we are always in the living room together as a family. We do usually watch TV together every night before going to bed; it gives us some family time by talking about our day, and reconnecting after a long day.

What are the positives/negatives associated with watching television?

                I believe that there are many positives to television. In my house it brings us together and we get to spend time with one another. As well as providing something to do while relazing from a stressful day at school at work. Televisions also hold many negatives. Instead of going out and doing active things, most people would rather stay in and watch TV. Televisions also are the center of our world. It is what the media revolves around, and can create an unhealthy environment. Over all everyone is different when it comes to their habits with watching TV. I do thing that televisions can be a great thing, but it is something that should be limited.

P4- Christie

For this choice blog I decided to report on some exciting news. My aunt just recently got engaged and she chose me to be her maid of honor. Christie and I grew up right across the street from one another. The word aunt is usually associated with older people; however Christie and I are only six years apart.

Growing up with her by my side is one thing that I will never forget. She was my babysitter, best friend, and sometimes my enemy. She taught me many life lessons that I still hold on too to this day. She taught me how to ride my bike, and most importantly how to not let others try to bring you down. Even some things that I’m not so proud of such as, convincing your parents for something you want or getting out of trouble. Whatever the situation Christie always had some advice on the matter. We share so many memories, and I wouldn’t trade them for anything. Even though she might not be aware of this, she even taught me how to be a good big sister, and take responsibility for my actions. Looking back on my childhood I can remember when I use to wait until she woke up so I could spend the day with her. Where ever she was I wasn’t not too far behind, always tagging along even when I wasn’t wanted. Christie wasn’t just my aunt, play mate or best friend she is more, she is my sister.

Christie has always been someone I have looked up to and wanted to resemble, she was and still is my role model.  Through the good and bad times, I know she will always have my back and even though we might not agree on certain things. If you had the chance to know Christie when she was in high school, she was not the most motivated person. In her senior year something changed, she reprioritized her life. Christie went form a C student to graduating early from Medallie College. She was even offered a program at Syracuse University in broad casting journalism. Only forty people are accepted into this program every year.  Now looking back, she did teach me something that I am starting to realize. “Good things come to those who wait…from what’s left over from those who hustle”.  Every day I think of that quote and try my best to make my own dreams come true, instead of waiting for them to just appear.

N3

At this current moment I do not have a job, but I am searching.  I have recently had job interviews at the Pink Cow here in town, as well as Tony Walker Co. I also been offered job at DSW in at the Walden Galleria. Hopefully I will be receiving a call soon saying I have been hired.

After I graduate, I will be attending Genesee Community College in general studies.  My hope is that I will find something that will spark an interest within me. I have been doing some research and I think I might want to get in to childhood education. I have always enjoyed working with little kids. For the past three years I have been a cheerleading coach for the Alden Junior Football and Cheerleading. For all three of those years I have worked with the peewee division. The girls ages range from six to eight, they are always so happy and full of energy. There was never a dull moment when working with these kids. I enjoyed it so much that I going to try my best to return this year and coach again.

If it turns out that I do decided to become a teacher, I would transfer out of GCC and go into Medallie. I think Medallie would be a great fit for me. It has an excellent teaching program. On the off chance that I don’t want to become a teacher I would still go transfer into Medallie for their communications program. I witnessed my aunt going through the process of the communication world, and I think it has a lot to offer as well as it being something a little different and interesting.

Overall, I haven’t found my calling yet, but I hope that there is something in general studies that will inspire me.  

N1- The One and Only Devyn Woelfle

For this week’s blog I was able to interview Devyn Woelfle.  Devyn and I have had a few classes together in the past, but we never really got to know one another. It was nice that we got paired up, so we could learn some new things about one another.

 As we having a conversation I asked her what her life goal was, she answered saying “I want to be successful with a job.” I think it is great that she has ambition to succeed in life. At some point in her life she wants to be a CEO of a big business.  When Devyn was little she always wanted to be a model. She said “it was her childhood dream.” While we were talking I started to wonder what her best or worse memory was for her. She said “her worst memory was when her house burnt down.” And she wishes that she could forget that. Because this class is centrally based on technology I figured I would ask if she preferred new or old technology. She likes new because everything is so convenient and it makes life easier. While out conversation was coming to an end I decided to bring up the topic of prom.  Her thoughts on prom were was she was originally not going to attend, because she felt it was a waste of money and time. But she had a revelation and decided to attend. She got her dress at TT New York. Her dress is black and silver with beading detail.

Overall it was nice to meet someone new that I never really got the opportunity to learn more about Devyn.

N4- Is the Media Taking this Too Far?

After reading the article about Trayvon Martian I was disgusted. Martian was wearing something that a mass amount of people wear out now a days, jeans and hooded sweatshirt. He was carrying a pack of skittles and an ice tea, minding his own business. I believe Zimmerman could have miss read the situation, but he didn’t have to use “self-defense” to protect himself from Martian. If the accusations are correct and Martian and Zimmerman did have an altercation, where’s the proof? If the two were fighting, wouldn’t Zimmerman be covering in broses or cuts? Zimmerman in a written statement said that Martian repeatedly slammed his head down on the ground, breaking his nose. But Zimmerman doesn’t look like he has a broken nose; he didn’t even get medical attention.  My personal opinion is the only way a person can come out of a brawl unsaved is to have a disadvantage, such as a gun.

On the other hand I think the media might be blowing things out of proportion. In the United States you are innocent until proven guilty. The media is stressing to arrest Zimmerman, but there isn’t enough substantial proof for the police to arrest him. None of us really know what happened that fatal night. The police are investigating but the pressure of the media could influence the witnesses or jury if the case does go to trial.

One thing I was stunned about was how Martians father handled the media. He did not blame Zimmerman in such a way, as much as he wanted the truth and justice to be severed. I thought it was extremely classy that Martian’s father said that Zimmerman’s father “was just protecting him”. I thought that showed strength, it is easy to blame people for that happened; it is harder to accept what occurred.

Overall it is heartbreaking to think such a young boy with so much to offer the world will never get that chance.

N2- Spring Fever!

`               When people think spring they think flowers, green grass and budding trees. When I think of spring I think of longer days and an overall happiness in people attitude. Everyone seems to be more positive and to have an extra bounce in their step.

When I was younger one thing that spring offered was finally being able to play with friends outside after school.  I can remember rushing to finish my homework on the bus so I could play. Once I finally got home I went straight outside. Back then it didn’t matter if you were alone or surrounded by people, it was still nice to be outdoors again. I would ride my bike around the block or just walk until the sun started to set. I can remember begging my mom for just a few more minutes so I could enjoy the beautiful weather, just a little bit more.

Even though that was at least seven years ago, they are still some of my favorite memories. As the weather is starting to change I started to see a change in kids today. I have a little sister who is nine; even though we are eight years apart she would rather be inside watching TV. She never wants to go out and play by herself and once she finds someone to play with they end up indoors.  I remember spring being the best time of year, but she can’t tell the difference because she is always inside. I sometimes wonder what would happen if I forced her to be outdoors and try to create her own memories of playing outside. Even though I have tried multiple times, it has not been a success.

Overall I love spring. I love what it brings to people attitude and I love what it used to represent. I just hope that the younger generation can start to enjoy it like I used too.  

M1-Irish Dancing

St. Patrick’s Day has always been a big deal to me. Being Irish it is nice to celebrate your heritage. For a few years I took Irish dancing lessons. When I was a little girl my favorite thing to watch was a tape of Riverdance. I would watch it over and over again and try to mimic what I saw. Finally my parents put me in to lessons with Rince Na Tiarna, and it was so amazing to actually learn how to dance instead of watching it on TV.  After two years of dancing my class was asked to walk and dance in the St. Patrick’s Day parade in downtown Buffalo. I never thought that I would be given that opportunity. But it was one of the best days of my life, despite the weather.

The night before I was preparing the routine. While I was thinking, my mom had to curl my whole head in foam curlers that I would have to sleep in. It took about 2 hours just to put the curlers in my hair, and we even ran out a few times and we had to run to the store to get more, but it was worth it. After my hair was done I had to learn how to tie my ghillies. The ghillies are a soft shoe that only has a thin piece of leather covering the bass of your foot.  By the end of the night I master how to tie my shoes (which are actually quite complicated to tie) and my dance routine. The next day, to my surprise it was pouring rain! Great!...Not! When I got to the parade, I was amazed to see so many Irish dancers and I couldn’t believe that I had the opportunity to dance with them. Then I was told that I would have to walk/ skip for the entire thing and that we would do our routine when we passed the judges. After the long walk my hair was ruined, my feet soaking wet and in so much pain from practically walking bare foot on the street, but I didn’t care. If it was up to me I would have done it all over again and wouldn’t change a thing.

Even though I am no longer an Irish dancer (because I thought cheerleading was cooler) I still remember everything I was taught. Looking back, I’m glad I was giving such a great opportunity and I was able to celebrate my heritage in the best way!  

M4-Tornadoes

For this choice blog I decide to write about national and international news and how it can affect us in Alden.  It is no secret that there has been a major outbreak of tornadoes. Just because we live in Alden, doesn’t mean that we get just snow. Western New York can still get possible tornadoes, but just not as many or sever as in tornado alley. In Alden we had a tornado two or three years ago. Before that we had sights of funnel clouds and had tornado advisories.

Here in Western New York, when there is a hot summer day and there is cool air coming off of Lake Erie it creates thunderstorms. With the hot air raising it fuels the storm and the cool air create out flow with can cause the clouds to rotate. One the clouds are rotating fast enough it creates a storm cell, and storm wall. When these are created it is likely that tornadoes can be formed. But before it is a tornado it is a funnel could. Which is exactly what is sounds like, a cloud in shape of a funnel. Once the funnel cloud reaches the ground or starts to stir things up it is called a tornado. Tornadoes are scaled on the Enchanted Fujita Scale; the scale is based on wind speed and damage. The range is EF0, which only cause a few down power lines and broken trees, to a EF5. EF5s are the most deadly and sever tornadoes of them all. An EF5 can exceed winds of about 300 mph. They can easily level a town the size of Alden, leaving nothing behind.

In this past week alone 41 people have died, including the 14 month old miracle baby. This baby was found ten miles away from her home in the middle of a field. Unfortunately her father, mother, and siblings also perished from the severe weather. In Kentucky a tornado was on the ground for 95 miles. But that wasn’t the worst one in history.  In 1925 a tornado went through three states killing 695 people and was on the ground for at least 3 and a half hours.

In conclusion, we always need to be prepared for the unexpected.

M2-Driving

I recently got my license, and I feel there are many drivers on the road that aren’t paying attention due to distracting driving. I have had my license for the past six months and have already all most been hit by another car, because of driver was distracted.  According to AAA “using a cell phone while driving quadruples your risk of crashing.” It truly amazes me that people would take the risk of injuring themselves or others.  

                I believe that safe driving has become extinct, yes there are safe drivers out there but the majority of the people will confess that they do things will driving that they shouldn’t. AAA said that over 95% of people are distracted while driving. In today’s world driving has become essential; it seems we have to drive everywhere. But because it sometimes seems that we are in the car more than we are anywhere else, do we take safe driving for granted?  Driving isn’t just about the way you drive it is also about the other people on the road. Anticipating what they are going to do next or anything else. We have to pay attention to what is going on in front of us, instead of who texted you or what other things you have to do next.

Let’s face it; the cell phones are the only thing that can distract us. Sometimes we are so wrapped in our schedule, homework, work, or even figuring out what to eat for dinner that we stop focusing on the road. It is every easy to start thinking about things that need to be done and life’s hectic schedule.  But another huge distraction when driving is multi-tasking. Many people eat and drive, or read the newspaper. But there are some things that we can do to try to prevent this. Put your phone on silent and put it in the backseat, so that it is out of sight and out of mind. Another easy thing we can do is plan the day before we leave in the morning to ensure what needs to done so you’re not thinking about what or where you have to go next.  Overall, the little steps can unsure your safety and other while you’re on the road.

M3-A House in Flames

Hmm, I have had a great deal of embarrassing moments, but there is one moment that I will never forget.  I ALMOST burnt down my house!

When I was a little kid, probably only about seven years old, I was obsessed with Barbie’s! Every day during the summer most of the neighborhood girls would come over and play Barbie’s. But was just play with the dolls then clean it up, no it was much much more. We made my whole basement in to a Barbie town. Each person had their own house, and jobs, we even printed out money and bills. One day the power had gone out and because my basement didn’t have any windows we were used candles. As me and little Sara Steffan (yes Michael’s older sister) were setting up the candles and flash lights. I thought it would be a great idea to put a candle stick near my hot pink and bright blue Barbie dream house. For some odd reason me and Sarah had to run up stairs for a minute, leaving the candles unattended.  When we returned the whole Barbie house was on fire, and it was right next to the wall! My aunt, who also played with us screamed at me to get water. But what did I do? I went in the next room and sat on the couch freaking out. When my aunt came out of the room looking for me, she realized that I didn’t do what I was told. She pulled me off the couch and sprung to action. I ran upstairs to tell my dad that the house was on fire.  Unfortunately he was sleeping and my screaming about the house being on fire didn’t wake him, because his response was “clean it up when you’re done.” Luckily we put out the fire, but the only thing that survived was a Barbie and a plate. After that and still to this day I am not allowed to be left alone with candles.

J1- My Hero

According to Merriam-Webster dictionary the word hero is defined as a person who is the object of extreme or uncritical devotion. Even though that might be true, to me a hero is a person who will do everything and anything for someone or something they care about. I understand that this might be said a lot but my hero is my mother. Ever since I was little my mother taught me how to be respectful, open minded and how to make a good impression. It only took one moment to realize who my hero was. When I was in fifth grade I had a terrible accident due to my clumsiness. I was in Canada for an overnight cheerleading competition. As my family and I were on our way back from dinner I gave little Phoebe Bichler a piggy back ride. When I was only a few feet from the entrance of the hotel I fell. Instantly breaking my two front teeth and my glasses, luckily Phoebe only had a few little scares on her hands. After the three hour visit to the emergency room, my mom and I had a long talk about whether I would want to cheer the next day or not.  When I asked her what she thought I should do, because I was so conflicted. When she answered she said it wasn’t her decision to make and no matter what I wanted to do she would support me every step of the way. After an answer like that I realized my hero was my mother. She would do anything for her family and no matter if she disagreed with it or not she still showed support.

But sometimes as we get older we forget about those moments and lose track of why they were our hero in the first place. Just last weekend I was reminded of why she is and always will be my hero. I was away for the weekend and was at the 60^th annual Diocesan Youth Convention held at the Adam’s Mark hotel. When I returned home she gave me a small box and in it was a necklace. On the necklace are the words “daughters are like flowers, they fill the world with beauty.” I was so touched that she was thinking about me while I was away and thought of me when she saw it.

We all have different heroes but it is up to us to realize it and appreciate what we have because it might not last forever.

L1- The Super Bowl!

Who doesn’t love the super bowl? I don’t even watch football and I still look forward to it. For me it holds a lot of family memories. My dad’s birthday always takes place during the super bowl weekend. For many years we held a family party and would watch the game together.  My dad would always make a cake that had an exact replica of the field and team logos. While my mom and I were preparing the appetizers and the taco bar for dinner.  Overall it was just nice to be surrounded by family, food and a great game to watch. But the game of football doesn’t interest me, the halftime show and commercials are what I’m interested in.  Last year had some of the best commercials. My favorite was the volts wagon with the little kid obsessed with Darth Vador and was trying to use the “force”.  Another one that I enjoyed were the Doritos commercials. I thought it was a very clever idea to have an average office man and a little dog obsessed with the chip. I also thought it was smart to have a few short commercials showing the product instead of one long commercial.

The half time shows are one of the most talked about things about the super bowl. This past year the queen of pop preformed, Madonna. I thought her entrance was over the top, just like her. Even though it was clear she was lip sinking it was still a remarkable performance. For having one rehearsal and no sound check before she went live, it was truly inspiring.  I thought it was great the way she mixed between old and new music, and added some other musicians from other genres.  She and CeeLo Green were incredible when they sang Like a Prayer together as the last song.

Over all I think the super bowl is getting bigger and more impressive every year and I can’t wait to see what they do next year.

K2- My Life

When he is sleeping I could watch him all night. The past year has been rough on us. I’ve never thought there was a chance I would have to be a single mother for a little while. But Alex was determined to go back into the reserves. I miss Alex so much, I can’t believe he is still in Iraq, I remember saying goodbye to him like it was yesterday.

We laid in bed for the whole night, neither one of us slept nor talked. We just enjoyed each other’s company. When the alarm when I off I wish time had stopped and I could freeze this moment in time with Alex’s arms around me. When he held me I felt safe and nothing was going to happen with him being by my side. But time didn’t stop no matter how much I wish and prayed it did. That was it our last night together for a year or possibly forever, over. I didn’t want to, couldn’t move. I was paralyzed I didn’t want to let go. Alex pulled me close and kissed me on the head. We laid like that for a minutes but it felt like seconds. When he got up and started to dress in his camouflage, the fear and tears started to roll in.

The rest of the morning went by like a blur. When we arrived at the airport Alex was holding Aden close trying to savor the moment. Aden was only four and didn’t fully comprehend where daddy was going, and I knew has he got older I would have to answer his questions.

But was I prepared to? I would have to be.

Then the announcement I was dreading, it was Alex’s platoon’s turn to deploy. I hugged him as tight as I could; trying to memorize everything and hoping my memory would last and wouldn’t fail. As he pulled away there was no stopping the tears streaming down my face. He turned around before he boarded the plane and smiled his crocked smile, that smile that made me fall in love with me.

Now as I look at him peacefully sleeping, I now know that I am strong enough to protect him, just like Alex protects me. 

                Epilog: I woke up to Aden’s singing in my ear and when I open my eyes Alex is there smiling, he puts him had on my belly. We can’t wait for the new addiction to our family to arrive.  

K1) The Smith's

“That’s it!” said Tom as he was eating dinner, with his wife of two years Katie. The Smiths appeared as a well off suburban family, they were always seen at church and throwing the legendary annual Christmas party. What others saw were just lies. What happened behind closed doors? Why has Katie been away at her sisters for two months? What happened to the happy Smiths that everyone knew and loved? To tell that story we have to reveal the lies.

Tom and Katie were an older couple, who found a second chance at love. Tom’s first wife left him after ten years of bliss. While Katie’s first husband died in a car accident. When the two first met it was like they were finally happy and all the bad things that happened in their life led them to this moment. After a year of dating, they became inseparable of each other and finally got married. For the first year it was marriage bliss, they were truly happy, but then Tom started to get aggressive. He became easily agitated and snapped without warning. As understanding and sweet Katie was she thought he was just stressed from work.
She should’ve ran when she had the chance.

One stormy night when Tom came home from work, Katie knew something wasn’t right, as she tried to comfort her husband. He started to beat her, taking no mercy. After Tom realized what he had done, he felt instant regret and promised his wife it wouldn’t happen again. She believed him and decided to let it go and move forward. She didn’t get that chance. The abuse continued and Katie kept taking it.

Six months went by and the beatings became almost like a routine. When Tom came home from work, he seemed, more agitated than usual, but Katie didn’t pick up on it. As they were eating dinner Tom threw everything off the table and it crashed on floor. Katie became paralyzed in her chair and thought it would be over soon, but once again she was wrong. When Katie looked into her husband’s eyes, she didn’t see the man she fell in love with, she saw a monster. She thought it was finally over, but once she opened her eyes he was standing over her holding a chair. That’s when Katie realized that her husband’s first wife didn’t leave him, he killed her.

Three years later Jamie had a new wonderful husband who would be there for her until death do us part. Her new husband was Tom.

I-1 Me and B-realz Adventures.

Over my Christmas brake there were many ups and downs. On the up side I was able to re do my entire room, with the help of the lovely Brianna Harris. With her help I was able to repaint my room, and use her excellent organization techniques. But just to clear things up, B-realz (aka Brianna Harris) did not just leave my house with the pride of helping her friends. In fact if you have notice Brianna’s new cloths, you might have realized you saw it before. That right everyone she took my cloths! Haha. Now I’m not saying that she is a stealer. Even though as I am writing this she is next to me wearing my sweatshirt that I didn’t know she had. (By the way Bri at some point in time I do want that sweatshirt back.) When I was organizing everything, I decide to give some of my cloths away to good will. When I was literally throwing cloths out of my closest, I noticed a pill off to the side. She made her own pill of cloths, out of the ones I was getting rid of. Now I’m not mad at all, I just think it is a little funny because when I was finished there was a little pill left to go to good will.

But that was only one story, out of many. B-realz and I decided to go out and do come returns before returning to school. As we were approaching Panera’s for lunch, I realized I forgot my credit card. Luckily Bri was nice enough to spot me my lunch until we got home. As we were eating, we both realized that I needed my credit card to do returns. So because I am such a blonde we had to drive back to my house and back out to Transit, for a movie in only three hours. When we got back on to Transit, an hour had gone by, and we didn’t even make out first stop yet. But because of my impeccable driving skills and B-realz speedy shopping we were able to cross everything off the list and still make it back in time for the movie. Now before I leave anywhere I always make sure that I have my credit card on me.

In conclusion B-realz, I hope you are not offended by this little humorous blog.