For class on March 8, 2012
1. Death penalty
The cost of the three drugs necessary to perform the death penalty in the state of Texas is increasing dramatically. The price is going from $83 to almost $1,300 because the manufacturers of some of the drugs are halting production due to pressure from organizations against the death penalty. I wonder how this will effect people's opinion on the issue since more money is needed to carry out the procedure.
2. Google's privacy policy
Every time I get on Google or Gmail, I see a notification about the changing privacy policy. The new guidelines are set to be released in two days, however, the policy might be in violation of the European Union's rules. The EU claims the rules are vague and hard to understand, but then again, does anyone actually read the privacy policy? Will this change Google at all?
3. Romney vs. Santorum
Michigan's primary will be a test to see if Rick Santorum actually has a chance to get the Republican primary nomination. Voting will also occur on Tuesday in Arizona where Romney looks to have a large advantage. In all honesty, I do not think either candidate is strong enough to have a chance against Obama.
4. Netflix transition
Netflix has always been known as a movie rental company, but recently it has shifted more toward a television series streaming website. Netflix is a direct competitor with HBO, but in my opinion has been offering a better show library than HBO. Netflix must always be changing and shifting to keep up with its competitors.
5. DWTS cast announced
The newest cast of Dancing with the Stars was announced yesterday on the Today Show. To be honest, there are no surprises or big name stars. I was definitely letdown by the number of C-list stars that will dance for the coveted disco ball trophy. I will probably sit this season out.
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Monday, February 27, 2012
March 3, 2012
For class on March 8, 2012
1. Academy Awards
The Academy Awards were held this past Sunday and definitely did not disappoint. Most of the Hollywood stars looked stunning on the red carpet, especially Angelina Jolie in black gown with a tall slit. I was especially excited when Meryl Streep, my personal favorite, took home the big award.
2. Ohio school shooting
Early Monday morning, a school shooting occurred in Chardon, Ohio. School shootings are always terribly sad, especially when a life is lost. Four others are in critical condition. It will be interesting to see the repercussions of T.J. Lane, the sophomore responsible for the situation.
3. Student government drama
Yet another president/vice president pair has been eliminated from the student government elections. Madison and Antonio were disqualified for associating their campaign with another student running in the elections. I am not a fan of that rule, but then again, rules are rules.
4. Greg Davis
Former Longhorn offensive coordinator Greg Davis announced today that he was hired by Iowa. He has been a huge part of the Longhorn football success over the years and has even won an award for assistant coach of the year. Best of luck in Iowa.
5. DNA research
University of Texas chemists have developed a DNA model that has the potential to change the future of treating HIV and other diseases. In order to treat HIV, the DNA is what must be targeted. This looks like a step in the right direction. What starts here changes the world, really.
1. Academy Awards
The Academy Awards were held this past Sunday and definitely did not disappoint. Most of the Hollywood stars looked stunning on the red carpet, especially Angelina Jolie in black gown with a tall slit. I was especially excited when Meryl Streep, my personal favorite, took home the big award.
2. Ohio school shooting
Early Monday morning, a school shooting occurred in Chardon, Ohio. School shootings are always terribly sad, especially when a life is lost. Four others are in critical condition. It will be interesting to see the repercussions of T.J. Lane, the sophomore responsible for the situation.
3. Student government drama
Yet another president/vice president pair has been eliminated from the student government elections. Madison and Antonio were disqualified for associating their campaign with another student running in the elections. I am not a fan of that rule, but then again, rules are rules.
4. Greg Davis
Former Longhorn offensive coordinator Greg Davis announced today that he was hired by Iowa. He has been a huge part of the Longhorn football success over the years and has even won an award for assistant coach of the year. Best of luck in Iowa.
5. DNA research
University of Texas chemists have developed a DNA model that has the potential to change the future of treating HIV and other diseases. In order to treat HIV, the DNA is what must be targeted. This looks like a step in the right direction. What starts here changes the world, really.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
February 22, 2012
For class on February 23, 2012
1. Southern Baptist name chance
There has been talk about the Southern Baptist denomination changing names. Some members believe their name still has a bit of a negative connotation relating to the times of slavery. I do believe this might be a good PR move for the group.
2. Google display glasses
There is a rumor that Google might be releasing glasses with a camera and a voice input interface. It will stream real-time information about the surroundings. I do not fully understand the idea of the glasses but they do seem very futuristic. Is this where technology is heading?
3. Journalists killed in Syria
It is always so sad to hear about journalists being killed in foreign countries. Marie Colvin and Remi Ochlik passed away from a mortar fight in Syria earlier this morning. Colvin was from England and Remi resided in France. Prayers go out to their families.
4. Ruling over embarrassing Facebook photo
I cannot even believe that there was a lawsuit filed about an embarrassing childhood picture on Facebook. The funny part is that Aaron Olson sued his UNCLE over the picture. The judge sided with the uncle, stating that the picture did not affect Olson's safety. Where is Jerry Springer when you need him?
5. Anti-smoking campaign
An Austin marketing firm is now working with local officials to target teenagers in an anti-smoking campaign. Luckily, the rate of smoking has slightly dropped in the past few years, and this campaign will hopefully lower it even more. Smoking is dumb, anyway.
1. Southern Baptist name chance
There has been talk about the Southern Baptist denomination changing names. Some members believe their name still has a bit of a negative connotation relating to the times of slavery. I do believe this might be a good PR move for the group.
2. Google display glasses
There is a rumor that Google might be releasing glasses with a camera and a voice input interface. It will stream real-time information about the surroundings. I do not fully understand the idea of the glasses but they do seem very futuristic. Is this where technology is heading?
3. Journalists killed in Syria
It is always so sad to hear about journalists being killed in foreign countries. Marie Colvin and Remi Ochlik passed away from a mortar fight in Syria earlier this morning. Colvin was from England and Remi resided in France. Prayers go out to their families.
4. Ruling over embarrassing Facebook photo
I cannot even believe that there was a lawsuit filed about an embarrassing childhood picture on Facebook. The funny part is that Aaron Olson sued his UNCLE over the picture. The judge sided with the uncle, stating that the picture did not affect Olson's safety. Where is Jerry Springer when you need him?
5. Anti-smoking campaign
An Austin marketing firm is now working with local officials to target teenagers in an anti-smoking campaign. Luckily, the rate of smoking has slightly dropped in the past few years, and this campaign will hopefully lower it even more. Smoking is dumb, anyway.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
February 21, 2012
For class on February 23, 2012
1. Affirmative action
I do understand the reasoning for the implementation of affirmative action, however I do not see a need for it anymore. I strongly believe individuals should be accepted into college based on academics and the application. All ethnicities should be viewed as equal.
2. Another Romney endorsement
It was announced earlier today that Texas Speaker of the House Joe Straus is endorsing Mitt Romney as the republican presidential candidate. The interesting part is that Rick Santorum has the lead in Texas, according to the latest polls. What a race!
3. Greek bailout
European officials finally announced an "unprecedented" plan for a Greek bailout. It is the second one that will be given in hopes to finally settle down the chaos in Greece. Will the second time be the charm? Only time will tell.
4. UT vs. Baylor
The UT men's basketball team lost a nail-biter to the Baylor Bears last night. After holding a lead in the first half, the Bears made a comeback that the Longhorns were not read for. Texas got out-hustled in the last five minutes of the game.
5. Yemen elections
Yemen held a presidential election that will remove the current leader from office. Ali Abdullah Saleh has been in power for three decades, and there is much joy from the people of Yemen, although the new president has worked under Saleh's regime.
1. Affirmative action
I do understand the reasoning for the implementation of affirmative action, however I do not see a need for it anymore. I strongly believe individuals should be accepted into college based on academics and the application. All ethnicities should be viewed as equal.
2. Another Romney endorsement
It was announced earlier today that Texas Speaker of the House Joe Straus is endorsing Mitt Romney as the republican presidential candidate. The interesting part is that Rick Santorum has the lead in Texas, according to the latest polls. What a race!
3. Greek bailout
European officials finally announced an "unprecedented" plan for a Greek bailout. It is the second one that will be given in hopes to finally settle down the chaos in Greece. Will the second time be the charm? Only time will tell.
4. UT vs. Baylor
The UT men's basketball team lost a nail-biter to the Baylor Bears last night. After holding a lead in the first half, the Bears made a comeback that the Longhorns were not read for. Texas got out-hustled in the last five minutes of the game.
5. Yemen elections
Yemen held a presidential election that will remove the current leader from office. Ali Abdullah Saleh has been in power for three decades, and there is much joy from the people of Yemen, although the new president has worked under Saleh's regime.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
February 16, 2012
For class on February 16
1. Linsanity
Twitter has been blowing up with puns off the last name Lin. I have seen some pretty funny plays on words, like, "all I do is Lin Lin Lin, no matter what," and phrases of that nature. I cannot wait to see if Jeremy Lin will have staying power or will shortly be out of the spotlight.
2. Honduran prison fire
It was reported that 358 of prisoners died in a fire. The fire was started by an inmate in an overcrowded prison. The prison officials could not get the inmates out fast enough because they could not find the keys to each cell. Maybe a new fire safety policy should be instated.
3. Dubstep
I still have not made up my mind about my views on the new music genre, dubstep. Artists like Skrillex have become very popular, especially over social media sites. A part of me believes that no one actually likes dubstep, they just say they do to fit in. Just a thought.
4. Longhorn softball
A very under-recognized sports team, UT softball is off to a great start. They have won their first five games and outscored opponents 60-0. Ranked 13th in the nation, it looks like the longhorns will have a very promising season.
5. Adele
It is no surprise that the most tweeted topic during the Grammy's was Adele. At more than 10,000 tweets a second, beating out Chris Brown and Nicki Minaj. Her simplicity and not having a need to be the center of attention worked as somewhat of reverse psychology. I am glad someone deserving and humble is finally in the spotlight.
1. Linsanity
Twitter has been blowing up with puns off the last name Lin. I have seen some pretty funny plays on words, like, "all I do is Lin Lin Lin, no matter what," and phrases of that nature. I cannot wait to see if Jeremy Lin will have staying power or will shortly be out of the spotlight.
2. Honduran prison fire
It was reported that 358 of prisoners died in a fire. The fire was started by an inmate in an overcrowded prison. The prison officials could not get the inmates out fast enough because they could not find the keys to each cell. Maybe a new fire safety policy should be instated.
3. Dubstep
I still have not made up my mind about my views on the new music genre, dubstep. Artists like Skrillex have become very popular, especially over social media sites. A part of me believes that no one actually likes dubstep, they just say they do to fit in. Just a thought.
4. Longhorn softball
A very under-recognized sports team, UT softball is off to a great start. They have won their first five games and outscored opponents 60-0. Ranked 13th in the nation, it looks like the longhorns will have a very promising season.
5. Adele
It is no surprise that the most tweeted topic during the Grammy's was Adele. At more than 10,000 tweets a second, beating out Chris Brown and Nicki Minaj. Her simplicity and not having a need to be the center of attention worked as somewhat of reverse psychology. I am glad someone deserving and humble is finally in the spotlight.
February 15, 2012
For class on February 16, 2012
1. Whitney Houston
One of the best female artists of all times passed away Saturday. Her cause of death is still unknown, but the singer has battled drugs and alcohol in the past. Her record sales have soared since her death and there was a tribute in her name at the Grammy's.
2. TCU drug bust
It was announced today that eight students have been arrested in an undercover drug bust. Four of the students are TCU football players. The head coach already released a statement and the players have been removed from the roster. Lets hope nothing like that happens at UT.
3. Student government elections
Students began campaigning at midnight for student government positions. There are many new rules this year that each candidate must follow or will risk being dropped from the election. This is the time of the year I will avoid the west mall at all costs.
4. ACL/OU weekend debate
The Longhorn football schedule was released yesterday. We have some good home games, especially since we do not have to travel to West Virginia. The only downside of the schedule is that OU weekend is the same as ACL. It will be interesting to see how many people decide to skip the football weekend for the music festival. I guess we will see when then lineup comes out.
5. Chris Brown at the Grammy's
The hip hop singer performed at the Grammy's on Sunday. There was some scandal over if he should have been invited to perform, given his history in the media. Although I think it is time to move on from the drama, I do think his image will never be the same.
1. Whitney Houston
One of the best female artists of all times passed away Saturday. Her cause of death is still unknown, but the singer has battled drugs and alcohol in the past. Her record sales have soared since her death and there was a tribute in her name at the Grammy's.
2. TCU drug bust
It was announced today that eight students have been arrested in an undercover drug bust. Four of the students are TCU football players. The head coach already released a statement and the players have been removed from the roster. Lets hope nothing like that happens at UT.
3. Student government elections
Students began campaigning at midnight for student government positions. There are many new rules this year that each candidate must follow or will risk being dropped from the election. This is the time of the year I will avoid the west mall at all costs.
4. ACL/OU weekend debate
The Longhorn football schedule was released yesterday. We have some good home games, especially since we do not have to travel to West Virginia. The only downside of the schedule is that OU weekend is the same as ACL. It will be interesting to see how many people decide to skip the football weekend for the music festival. I guess we will see when then lineup comes out.
5. Chris Brown at the Grammy's
The hip hop singer performed at the Grammy's on Sunday. There was some scandal over if he should have been invited to perform, given his history in the media. Although I think it is time to move on from the drama, I do think his image will never be the same.
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
February 8, 2012
For class on February 9, 2012
1. Fashion week
In the fashion world, one of the biggest weeks of the year is coming up. New York Fashion Week will definitely not disappoint. This year, there is a lot of hype about designers using social media and the Internet to create more brand awareness.
2. Foursquare
Although I do not use or care to use Foursquare, it is an innovative idea. I do not care to see where my friends are every second of their day. The part about Foursquare I like is when restaurants and businesses give discounts if someone checks in on Foursquare at their location. Good use of social media.
3. Valentine's Day
With Valentine's day just around the corner, I have been receiving so many emails from clothing, jewelry, and even technology websites about giving "the perfect gift to show you care about your special someone." I like ads that are very specific to current events and holidays.
4. Sprint's iPhone
Sprint announced their Q4 results, and it is not surprise that the iPhone helped the company immensely. Sprint gained over 720,000 new customers, and I am sure most of it had to do with offering the iPhone. Apple wins again.
5. Longhorn basketball beats A&M in the final showdown
Thankfully, UT will be going out on top at the end of the rivalry with A&M. So far this year, the only sport A&M has beat UT in is girl's soccer. We are doing them a favor by giving them a taste of what is to come in the SEC. Hook 'em!
1. Fashion week
In the fashion world, one of the biggest weeks of the year is coming up. New York Fashion Week will definitely not disappoint. This year, there is a lot of hype about designers using social media and the Internet to create more brand awareness.
2. Foursquare
Although I do not use or care to use Foursquare, it is an innovative idea. I do not care to see where my friends are every second of their day. The part about Foursquare I like is when restaurants and businesses give discounts if someone checks in on Foursquare at their location. Good use of social media.
3. Valentine's Day
With Valentine's day just around the corner, I have been receiving so many emails from clothing, jewelry, and even technology websites about giving "the perfect gift to show you care about your special someone." I like ads that are very specific to current events and holidays.
4. Sprint's iPhone
Sprint announced their Q4 results, and it is not surprise that the iPhone helped the company immensely. Sprint gained over 720,000 new customers, and I am sure most of it had to do with offering the iPhone. Apple wins again.
5. Longhorn basketball beats A&M in the final showdown
Thankfully, UT will be going out on top at the end of the rivalry with A&M. So far this year, the only sport A&M has beat UT in is girl's soccer. We are doing them a favor by giving them a taste of what is to come in the SEC. Hook 'em!
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
February 7, 2012
For class on February 9, 2012
1. Super Bowl
Reports came out that social media was constantly used during the Super Bowl, but it was not primarily used for the actual game. Tweets and posts were more directed toward the advertisements, which in my opinion could have been a lot funnier.
2. Streaming video
Verizon and Redbox have both announced plans to create a streaming service and will compete with Netflix. I think this is a necessary move for Redbox if they want to stay current and not fall behind times like Blockbuster. Streaming shows is becoming more mainstream and convenient than traditional TV viewing.
3. Amazon rumor
There is a rumor than Amazon is going to open a retail store. It will be located in Seattle and will apparently open just in time for the next holiday season. Shoppers will be able to buy Kindles, hard copies of books that are exclusive to Amazon, and other products. It will be interesting to see how this will affect their profits.
4. Texas redistricting
Slowly but surely, Texas will eventually get redistricted. I work in an office with a man that is part of the redistricting process. Apparently agreements on most parts of the map have been reached, which means the primaries will most likely occur on April 3.
5. Earthquake in the Philippines
An earthquake with a magnitude of 6.7 hit the Philippines this week. The interesting part is that social media played a huge role in informing people this was happening. A tsunami alert also went around social media sites. It has proved to be a quick and reliable means to alert individuals of current events happening around the world.
1. Super Bowl
Reports came out that social media was constantly used during the Super Bowl, but it was not primarily used for the actual game. Tweets and posts were more directed toward the advertisements, which in my opinion could have been a lot funnier.
2. Streaming video
Verizon and Redbox have both announced plans to create a streaming service and will compete with Netflix. I think this is a necessary move for Redbox if they want to stay current and not fall behind times like Blockbuster. Streaming shows is becoming more mainstream and convenient than traditional TV viewing.
3. Amazon rumor
There is a rumor than Amazon is going to open a retail store. It will be located in Seattle and will apparently open just in time for the next holiday season. Shoppers will be able to buy Kindles, hard copies of books that are exclusive to Amazon, and other products. It will be interesting to see how this will affect their profits.
4. Texas redistricting
Slowly but surely, Texas will eventually get redistricted. I work in an office with a man that is part of the redistricting process. Apparently agreements on most parts of the map have been reached, which means the primaries will most likely occur on April 3.
5. Earthquake in the Philippines
An earthquake with a magnitude of 6.7 hit the Philippines this week. The interesting part is that social media played a huge role in informing people this was happening. A tsunami alert also went around social media sites. It has proved to be a quick and reliable means to alert individuals of current events happening around the world.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
February 1, 2012
Post for class on February 2, 1012
1. SXSW lineup announced
Although I have never been to South by Southwest, I always hear nothing but good things about the music festival. I went to Austin City Limits for the first time and absolutely loved it. My only complaint about SXSW is that it is over UT's spring break so I am never in town to attend.
2. 68 dead in a soccer match
I have always wanted to visit Egypt, but after reading about the violent riot that broke out after a soccer match, I do not know if I want to risk it. I know Egypt has been unstable lately, but 68 people dying at a soccer match is absolutely ridiculous.
3. Signing day
Today was the big day for college athletics. By the looks of it UT got some solid picks for football and other sports. With a few key additions, Longhorn football could be one of the top teams in the nation and will have a chance at the national championship.
4. Google+
I created a Google+ account a few months ago and to be honest, I rarely visit the social networking site. An article in Mashable stated that it reached 100 million users. It will be interesting to see if it can even compete with Facebook, especially now that Obama had a "hangout" on the site.
5. Komen pulls funding
Susan G. Komen for the Cure announced yesterday that they are halting their partnership with Planned Parenthood. They are cutting off hundreds of thousands of dollars that are used to pay for breast exams. The reason for the change is because Planned Parenthood is under investigation in Congress. This decision by Komen reminds me of the similar situation recently faced by Lowe's when they were trying to avoid controversy.
1. SXSW lineup announced
Although I have never been to South by Southwest, I always hear nothing but good things about the music festival. I went to Austin City Limits for the first time and absolutely loved it. My only complaint about SXSW is that it is over UT's spring break so I am never in town to attend.
2. 68 dead in a soccer match
I have always wanted to visit Egypt, but after reading about the violent riot that broke out after a soccer match, I do not know if I want to risk it. I know Egypt has been unstable lately, but 68 people dying at a soccer match is absolutely ridiculous.
3. Signing day
Today was the big day for college athletics. By the looks of it UT got some solid picks for football and other sports. With a few key additions, Longhorn football could be one of the top teams in the nation and will have a chance at the national championship.
4. Google+
I created a Google+ account a few months ago and to be honest, I rarely visit the social networking site. An article in Mashable stated that it reached 100 million users. It will be interesting to see if it can even compete with Facebook, especially now that Obama had a "hangout" on the site.
5. Komen pulls funding
Susan G. Komen for the Cure announced yesterday that they are halting their partnership with Planned Parenthood. They are cutting off hundreds of thousands of dollars that are used to pay for breast exams. The reason for the change is because Planned Parenthood is under investigation in Congress. This decision by Komen reminds me of the similar situation recently faced by Lowe's when they were trying to avoid controversy.
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