For class on April 19, 2012
1. Obama campaign strategy
Obama's campaign is beginning to target Latinos in order to ensure he receives the majority of their vote. In 2008, Obama won over two-thirds of the Hispanic vote and he plans to repeat that in November. With today's technology, it is so easy to target specific demographics and psychographics in elections.
2. Austin teacher arrested
A geography teacher at Austin High School was arrested for possession of marijuana. Excuse me, what? It is terrifying that drug users are teaching at public schools. This is unacceptable and perhaps schools should begin drug testing periodically. It should never have to come to that, especially with grown adults.
3. Occupy UT continues
Eighteen people were arrested on Tuesday during Occupy UT protests, with most of them being UT students. They were protesting the controversy over Longhorn gear being made in sweatshops. I am not a fan of protests like this, especially since the protesters are planning a candlelight protest outside President Powers' house.
4. Sexting mistakes
According to a recent article, one in ten individuals have sent sexts to the wrong person. Almost half of Americans have sexted at least once in their life. Sexting is a funny concept to me and it is even funnier that there are many articles written on the subject. If you do not sext, you will not accidentally send it to the wrong contact.
Thursday, April 19, 2012
April 19, 2012
For class on April 19, 2012
1. Dick Clark
Television personality Dick Clark passed away on Wednesday. He has hosted many television shows, with the most recent being "Dick Clark's New Year's Rocking Eve". Although he could barely speak the past few years, he has always done the midnight countdown.
2. Draw Something update
Since Zynga bought the popular smart phone game, they promised new features shortly. These features include chat, a longer winning streak capability, and an easy update button. I have been playing Draw Something for about two weeks now and am very curious as to how long it will stay popular.
3. New judge in Zimmerman case
The new judge has a high rating with defense lawyers. but is said to have no "soft touch." I hope this case does not get dragged out nor get too publicized. The key issue here is that an innocent boy was killed and hopefully justice will be properly served.
4. Naked protest
A naked protest took place in an Oregon airport on Tuesday. The protester was upset about the security procedures and decided to remove all of his clothing to express his free speech. I do not think that is the most accurate way to demonstrate the First Amendment.
1. Dick Clark
Television personality Dick Clark passed away on Wednesday. He has hosted many television shows, with the most recent being "Dick Clark's New Year's Rocking Eve". Although he could barely speak the past few years, he has always done the midnight countdown.
2. Draw Something update
Since Zynga bought the popular smart phone game, they promised new features shortly. These features include chat, a longer winning streak capability, and an easy update button. I have been playing Draw Something for about two weeks now and am very curious as to how long it will stay popular.
3. New judge in Zimmerman case
The new judge has a high rating with defense lawyers. but is said to have no "soft touch." I hope this case does not get dragged out nor get too publicized. The key issue here is that an innocent boy was killed and hopefully justice will be properly served.
4. Naked protest
A naked protest took place in an Oregon airport on Tuesday. The protester was upset about the security procedures and decided to remove all of his clothing to express his free speech. I do not think that is the most accurate way to demonstrate the First Amendment.
Thursday, April 12, 2012
April 12, 2012
For class on April 12, 2012
1. More disclosure from Facebook
Facebook announced that the social media sight will now offer more disclosure and transparency. The privacy settings are constantly changing and difficult to understand, so hopefully this will make it easier. Also they will be more open about what kind of information they are storing and using.
2. Stressfest
UT had its annual Stressfest yesterday on campus. I really wish I had heard about it sooner since the past two weeks might possibly have been the most stressful weeks of my life thanks to two huge group projects and three difficult exams. I do get a couple weeks of somewhat relaxation, but a festival completely directed toward relieving my stress? Count me in next year.
3. UT bans tobacco
Finally. Who even uses tobacco products anymore? Well a good amount of people do, but I just do not see a need for it. It is another one of those things I will never understand, and I am glad UT is attempting to reduce the number of tobacco users, at least on campus. It makes me smile to think I will never be stuck walking behind an individual smoking on the way to class.
4. Baylor on probation
I think this is one of those things that every university does but only some get caught. Baylor is on probation for three years by NCAA for placing illegal calls and text messages to to prep recruits. Their scholarship money will be limited for three years as punishment. I hope UT learns by example.
1. More disclosure from Facebook
Facebook announced that the social media sight will now offer more disclosure and transparency. The privacy settings are constantly changing and difficult to understand, so hopefully this will make it easier. Also they will be more open about what kind of information they are storing and using.
2. Stressfest
UT had its annual Stressfest yesterday on campus. I really wish I had heard about it sooner since the past two weeks might possibly have been the most stressful weeks of my life thanks to two huge group projects and three difficult exams. I do get a couple weeks of somewhat relaxation, but a festival completely directed toward relieving my stress? Count me in next year.
3. UT bans tobacco
Finally. Who even uses tobacco products anymore? Well a good amount of people do, but I just do not see a need for it. It is another one of those things I will never understand, and I am glad UT is attempting to reduce the number of tobacco users, at least on campus. It makes me smile to think I will never be stuck walking behind an individual smoking on the way to class.
4. Baylor on probation
I think this is one of those things that every university does but only some get caught. Baylor is on probation for three years by NCAA for placing illegal calls and text messages to to prep recruits. Their scholarship money will be limited for three years as punishment. I hope UT learns by example.
April 12, 2012
For class on April 12, 2012
1. Facebook buys Instagram
It was announced this week that Facebook is buying Instagram for $1 billion. Facebook has yet to go public but that did not stop them from making the investment. I wonder if Instagram will become a feature of Facebook in the future or if they will continue to be separate.
2. Hazing
It saddens me to say that yet another college student has lost his life due to hazing. This is a 100 percent avoidable death and I do not know when people will start to realize that. George Desdunes of Cornell University passed away after being kidnapped and told to drink a large quantity. I do not understand the point of hazing, and it looks like I never will.
3. Martin case suspect
George Zimmerman is finally set to appear in court. This is a terrible, terrible case in which I am baffled that it even occurred. Killing someone is never forgivable, but killing someone for absolutely no reason is awful beyond belief. Zimmerman should be held completely accountable for his actions, since an innocent life was lost.
4. Ann Romney
Election always bring out the strangest accusations and ideas. Recently, light has been shone on the fact that Ann Romney has apparently "never worked a day in her life." First of all, she is a stay-at-home-mom, which is probably more work than any corporate job. Second of all, how could that fact possibly affect the way Mitt Romney serves our country as president. People are dumb.
1. Facebook buys Instagram
It was announced this week that Facebook is buying Instagram for $1 billion. Facebook has yet to go public but that did not stop them from making the investment. I wonder if Instagram will become a feature of Facebook in the future or if they will continue to be separate.
2. Hazing
It saddens me to say that yet another college student has lost his life due to hazing. This is a 100 percent avoidable death and I do not know when people will start to realize that. George Desdunes of Cornell University passed away after being kidnapped and told to drink a large quantity. I do not understand the point of hazing, and it looks like I never will.
3. Martin case suspect
George Zimmerman is finally set to appear in court. This is a terrible, terrible case in which I am baffled that it even occurred. Killing someone is never forgivable, but killing someone for absolutely no reason is awful beyond belief. Zimmerman should be held completely accountable for his actions, since an innocent life was lost.
4. Ann Romney
Election always bring out the strangest accusations and ideas. Recently, light has been shone on the fact that Ann Romney has apparently "never worked a day in her life." First of all, she is a stay-at-home-mom, which is probably more work than any corporate job. Second of all, how could that fact possibly affect the way Mitt Romney serves our country as president. People are dumb.
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
April 5, 2012
For class on April 5, 2012
1. Austin growth
Austin-area growth rate is ranked number two in the nation, according to the US Census. I would say that is a great accomplishment and very understandable (who wouldn't want to live in Austin), but the only thing i can think about is traffic. Its already bad enough, and I cannot imagine how terrible it will get if Austin continues to grow.
2. Baylor win
Brittney Griner and the Baylor Bears women's basketball team not only won the Final Four, but also finished out a perfect season. Griner towers over her competition at 6'8". I have seen her slam dunk in person, and let me tell you, it is beyond intimidating. A well-deserved win for Baylor.
3. Austin to host March Madness
It was announced this week that Austin will host the second and third rounds of the NCAA men's basketball tournament next March. Maybe the Longhorn basketball team will pull themselves together and make it far in the tournament. Also, one word comes to mind once again. Traffic.
4. Student government elections finally over
It is with great honor that I finally announce the end of student government elections forever..... well for a year at least. Even though I was beyond annoyed with all of the events that occurred, the people I voted for won! Literally the only thing I know about the UT student body president is they get a life-size cutout in the Co-Op. I should have run.
1. Austin growth
Austin-area growth rate is ranked number two in the nation, according to the US Census. I would say that is a great accomplishment and very understandable (who wouldn't want to live in Austin), but the only thing i can think about is traffic. Its already bad enough, and I cannot imagine how terrible it will get if Austin continues to grow.
2. Baylor win
Brittney Griner and the Baylor Bears women's basketball team not only won the Final Four, but also finished out a perfect season. Griner towers over her competition at 6'8". I have seen her slam dunk in person, and let me tell you, it is beyond intimidating. A well-deserved win for Baylor.
3. Austin to host March Madness
It was announced this week that Austin will host the second and third rounds of the NCAA men's basketball tournament next March. Maybe the Longhorn basketball team will pull themselves together and make it far in the tournament. Also, one word comes to mind once again. Traffic.
4. Student government elections finally over
It is with great honor that I finally announce the end of student government elections forever..... well for a year at least. Even though I was beyond annoyed with all of the events that occurred, the people I voted for won! Literally the only thing I know about the UT student body president is they get a life-size cutout in the Co-Op. I should have run.
April 4, 2012
For class on April 5, 2012
1. More autism discoveries
Scientists are one step closer to discovering more about autism. They have found several gene mutations that greatly increase the odds of developing autism. A possible reason of autism developing is if the father is over the age of 35.
2. Election update
Now that most Republicans are either supporting or have come to the realization that Mitt Romney will most likely with the Republican primary, we can actually start comparing him to Obama. The current president has received an increase in approval ratings over the past few months so it will be interesting to see the outcome of the election.
3. Patent infringement
Facebook just accused Yahoo of infringing on patents, when just last month it was the other way around. Microsoft and Blackberry have been other companies to recently have been caught in patent fights.
4. Yahoo job cuts
Two thousand employees will be laid off at Yahoo, which was announced on Wednesday. IT is due to a restructuring effort by new CEO Scott Thompson, who joined the company from PayPal.
5. Smartphones for medical use
Smartphones have come a long way in the past ten years, and research shows that Americans are now using their phones for medical purposes. Possible uses include searching for medical symptoms, using apps to keep track of medication use, and to help manage personal health.
1. More autism discoveries
Scientists are one step closer to discovering more about autism. They have found several gene mutations that greatly increase the odds of developing autism. A possible reason of autism developing is if the father is over the age of 35.
2. Election update
Now that most Republicans are either supporting or have come to the realization that Mitt Romney will most likely with the Republican primary, we can actually start comparing him to Obama. The current president has received an increase in approval ratings over the past few months so it will be interesting to see the outcome of the election.
3. Patent infringement
Facebook just accused Yahoo of infringing on patents, when just last month it was the other way around. Microsoft and Blackberry have been other companies to recently have been caught in patent fights.
4. Yahoo job cuts
Two thousand employees will be laid off at Yahoo, which was announced on Wednesday. IT is due to a restructuring effort by new CEO Scott Thompson, who joined the company from PayPal.
5. Smartphones for medical use
Smartphones have come a long way in the past ten years, and research shows that Americans are now using their phones for medical purposes. Possible uses include searching for medical symptoms, using apps to keep track of medication use, and to help manage personal health.
Thursday, March 29, 2012
March 29, 2012
For class on March 29, 2012
1. Autism rate
A recent study discovered that the Autism rate has increased by more than 20 percent from 2006 to 2008. The one in 88 chance used to be one in 155. Researchers have not yet determined if the increase is cause by an increase in awareness, widening of the definition, or an actual increase in incidence. My mother teaches special education so I am always fascinated in learning disorders.
2. Face unlock
Just when you think phone security is strong, a whole new spectrum is introduced. Samsung is continuing to perfect its "face unlock" feature. It also adds the need to blink before unlocking your phone. I guess no one will ever have to worry about strangers or friends hacking into their phones!
3. Open-heart surgery tweeted live
Social media history was made last month at a Houston hospital when an entire open-heart surgery was tweeted live. Obviously the doctor performing the surgery was not doing the actual tweeting, but another doctor tweeted updates and answered questions throughout the procedure. This proves social media's ability to connect people and shine light on unexpected events.
4. Google Maps traffic estimates
After driving to Alabama and back for spring break, I discovered Google Maps is not the most accurate time estimator, especially when traffic is taken into account. Google fixed the kinks and is now offering a congestion-free time estimate and an estimate in the current traffic conditions. Google is always challenging itself to become better and more efficient.
5. Spotify remaining free
Americans can use Spotify for free for a little while longer. After the free period, users will have to pay $9.99 a month for all of the services or can play up to ten hours of music free a month. I do not think it is a terrible deal to pay ten bucks if you are an avid music listener. I will just stick to the ten free hours a month, though.
1. Autism rate
A recent study discovered that the Autism rate has increased by more than 20 percent from 2006 to 2008. The one in 88 chance used to be one in 155. Researchers have not yet determined if the increase is cause by an increase in awareness, widening of the definition, or an actual increase in incidence. My mother teaches special education so I am always fascinated in learning disorders.
2. Face unlock
Just when you think phone security is strong, a whole new spectrum is introduced. Samsung is continuing to perfect its "face unlock" feature. It also adds the need to blink before unlocking your phone. I guess no one will ever have to worry about strangers or friends hacking into their phones!
3. Open-heart surgery tweeted live
Social media history was made last month at a Houston hospital when an entire open-heart surgery was tweeted live. Obviously the doctor performing the surgery was not doing the actual tweeting, but another doctor tweeted updates and answered questions throughout the procedure. This proves social media's ability to connect people and shine light on unexpected events.
4. Google Maps traffic estimates
After driving to Alabama and back for spring break, I discovered Google Maps is not the most accurate time estimator, especially when traffic is taken into account. Google fixed the kinks and is now offering a congestion-free time estimate and an estimate in the current traffic conditions. Google is always challenging itself to become better and more efficient.
5. Spotify remaining free
Americans can use Spotify for free for a little while longer. After the free period, users will have to pay $9.99 a month for all of the services or can play up to ten hours of music free a month. I do not think it is a terrible deal to pay ten bucks if you are an avid music listener. I will just stick to the ten free hours a month, though.
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