(Question 1)
Asian men that live in the United States have been excluded from the more “masculine” jobs that are available. He also comes across stating that they do not get leadership roles within their community or even within their family. I thought it was also interesting that he said that Asian men desire white women but that they do not have a desire for them, but, the white man has a strong desire for Asian women. Gay Asian men that are in gay communities may have very low self-esteem because they may not feel that they have the same physical beauty as a white gay man. They also have a fear of rejection from their families. These men are doubly marginalized because they are considered gay and feminine; they have a desire for white men verses other Asian gay men. They have tried to change their appearance and their nationality by coloring their hair and eye color, which is what some women do to be accepted. They are also marginalized by the dominant society, which I see as being America, and also by their own Asian communities. There is not much info in literature about Asian gay men, the only things that Han says is published is by the Asian gay men themselves.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Monday, October 29, 2007
Bad As They Wanna Be-Williamson 716
(Question 1)
I think he feels that college sports are getting out of control because there is so much pressure these days for the college athletes to perform. It used to be you were able to get a scholarship to a college if you played ball well enough, the athlete would play their best so that they would not loss their scholarship. Now there is so much pressure for the athletes to play their best for the benefit of the college and booster clubs. Williamson talks a lot about the corporate sponsorships that colleges are getting that used to be just for the pros. He also states his opinion very strongly about UNC spending so much money to build a new basketball arena for the college and to benefit the donors to the college and then they are also trying to build a special road for those big donors. He also expresses his feelings about UNC getting a Nick deal that would have all athletes wearing Nike apparel for practices, the students weren’t involved with this decision, what if a student does not like Nike brand, and does that mean they cannot play sports for UNC? He is wondering where the love of the game went and why it has become so commercial.
I think he feels that college sports are getting out of control because there is so much pressure these days for the college athletes to perform. It used to be you were able to get a scholarship to a college if you played ball well enough, the athlete would play their best so that they would not loss their scholarship. Now there is so much pressure for the athletes to play their best for the benefit of the college and booster clubs. Williamson talks a lot about the corporate sponsorships that colleges are getting that used to be just for the pros. He also states his opinion very strongly about UNC spending so much money to build a new basketball arena for the college and to benefit the donors to the college and then they are also trying to build a special road for those big donors. He also expresses his feelings about UNC getting a Nick deal that would have all athletes wearing Nike apparel for practices, the students weren’t involved with this decision, what if a student does not like Nike brand, and does that mean they cannot play sports for UNC? He is wondering where the love of the game went and why it has become so commercial.
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Obesity and Our School Distict (Final Copy of Proposal Essay)
Obesity in our children is a rising concern in our community. This is an issue that must be addressed not only at home, but also within the school district. Although the Fairbanks North Star Borough meets the food standards for the State of Alaska, they need to incorporate a mandatory Physical Education class during the school day because students need exercise every day, students must learn the importance of exercise and how it affects their health, and students need to burn built up energy outside the classroom.
The State of Alaska only requires high school students to take one class of health or physical education in order to graduate. This class is typically taken at a high school level. Physical education classes in other grade levels are determined by the local school district. Obesity in our children is concern in our community, not only should healthy eating and exercise be taught at home, but the school district should also be required to implement a program to help educate our children. The response we could get when this type of class is mentioned is “We don’t have enough school funds to justify this type of class.”
School age children should be getting a minimum of one hour of daily exercise everyday or most days of the week and school age children should not be stationary for more than two hours at a time. There are many afterschool sport activities that are available in our community that children can be involved in, but there is a financial constraint for some parents to get these children involved in these sports. Children should not be penalized for not being able to afford a community wide sponsored sport activity. Although younger school age children get at least thirty minutes of recess each day, the older students do not get this opportunity. A mandatory physical education class would require students to be active for a minimum of thirty to sixty minutes a day. I understand that cost and time is a major factor in implementing these classes, the school district puts so much effort into other types of learning programs to make our children ready for society, and and thirty to sixty minutes of structured exercise can only be an additional benefit to our children.
The physical education classes should be required to teach the kids the importance of exercise and eating healthy. Students need to realize that the habits they are forming now will follow them into adulthood. Classes should be different each day; they can focus on the proper way to do different exercises that don’t require any special equipment, like running, walking, jumping jacks, sit-ups and push-ups. They can also incorporate into the class the importance of healthy eating, which would involve the new food pyramid and basic recipes. Instructors could discuss the different types of health problems that could occur as adults; type 2 diabetes, heart problems, weight problems, weak bones, high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels. The classes should focus on age appropriate material, what you teach a child in middle school would be different than what you would teach an elementary student. A one hour class could teach the children so much about their health. One hour a day is not much to ask to help the welfare of our children and their health. Just as any class a child is enrolled in within the school district, the learning needs to continue at home with the parents or guardians.
Children are very stationary during the school day; they are required to sit still and listen to their teacher. When some children are required to sit still for a length of time, they will start to bored and become a distraction to the teacher and other students. Some students will start moving around in their seats, talking to other students and become a disturbance to the class. If kids had the opportunity to take a break and let off a little energy they would be more focused during the lessons that are stationary, grades and behavior could improved. Just as exercise is a stress reducer for adults it can have the same affect on children. A mandatory physical education class could also lower discipline problems in the classroom.
The parents should really get involved in trying to incorporate a physical education class for all grade levels within our school district. The funds to incorporate this class she be included in the borough budget, because health problems just don’t arise once a child is in high school; they start while a child is young. Children absorb so much at a young age, if they can learn to be physically active and the importance of eating healthy at a young age; this will help them live a long, happy and full filling life as an adult.
The State of Alaska only requires high school students to take one class of health or physical education in order to graduate. This class is typically taken at a high school level. Physical education classes in other grade levels are determined by the local school district. Obesity in our children is concern in our community, not only should healthy eating and exercise be taught at home, but the school district should also be required to implement a program to help educate our children. The response we could get when this type of class is mentioned is “We don’t have enough school funds to justify this type of class.”
School age children should be getting a minimum of one hour of daily exercise everyday or most days of the week and school age children should not be stationary for more than two hours at a time. There are many afterschool sport activities that are available in our community that children can be involved in, but there is a financial constraint for some parents to get these children involved in these sports. Children should not be penalized for not being able to afford a community wide sponsored sport activity. Although younger school age children get at least thirty minutes of recess each day, the older students do not get this opportunity. A mandatory physical education class would require students to be active for a minimum of thirty to sixty minutes a day. I understand that cost and time is a major factor in implementing these classes, the school district puts so much effort into other types of learning programs to make our children ready for society, and and thirty to sixty minutes of structured exercise can only be an additional benefit to our children.
The physical education classes should be required to teach the kids the importance of exercise and eating healthy. Students need to realize that the habits they are forming now will follow them into adulthood. Classes should be different each day; they can focus on the proper way to do different exercises that don’t require any special equipment, like running, walking, jumping jacks, sit-ups and push-ups. They can also incorporate into the class the importance of healthy eating, which would involve the new food pyramid and basic recipes. Instructors could discuss the different types of health problems that could occur as adults; type 2 diabetes, heart problems, weight problems, weak bones, high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels. The classes should focus on age appropriate material, what you teach a child in middle school would be different than what you would teach an elementary student. A one hour class could teach the children so much about their health. One hour a day is not much to ask to help the welfare of our children and their health. Just as any class a child is enrolled in within the school district, the learning needs to continue at home with the parents or guardians.
Children are very stationary during the school day; they are required to sit still and listen to their teacher. When some children are required to sit still for a length of time, they will start to bored and become a distraction to the teacher and other students. Some students will start moving around in their seats, talking to other students and become a disturbance to the class. If kids had the opportunity to take a break and let off a little energy they would be more focused during the lessons that are stationary, grades and behavior could improved. Just as exercise is a stress reducer for adults it can have the same affect on children. A mandatory physical education class could also lower discipline problems in the classroom.
The parents should really get involved in trying to incorporate a physical education class for all grade levels within our school district. The funds to incorporate this class she be included in the borough budget, because health problems just don’t arise once a child is in high school; they start while a child is young. Children absorb so much at a young age, if they can learn to be physically active and the importance of eating healthy at a young age; this will help them live a long, happy and full filling life as an adult.
Making a Visual Argument: How Others See Us 999
(Question 1)
In the first painting, I see American portrayed as a land of cowboys and or outlaws. It shows us to be gun toting Americans. It looks as though we are able to carry a gun anytime or any place. Although cowboys were once part of our past, times have changed. If someone showed me this picture as an example of Americans, I would be a little hesitant about coming to America. When I look at the second picture I have strong feelings against this picture. The first thing that I see is airplanes and then it looks like bombs, if I seen someone wearing this headdress I would be offended as an American. I am very proud of the third picture, it shows a woman of another culture that she is tending to the American flag, maybe the flag needed repair and she is taking her time to fix it. Even on her wall she shows pride in America. I think the third picture says the strongest statement because it proves that all cultures and religious background can be proud to be called an American and that Americans should not judge base on someones appearance.
In the first painting, I see American portrayed as a land of cowboys and or outlaws. It shows us to be gun toting Americans. It looks as though we are able to carry a gun anytime or any place. Although cowboys were once part of our past, times have changed. If someone showed me this picture as an example of Americans, I would be a little hesitant about coming to America. When I look at the second picture I have strong feelings against this picture. The first thing that I see is airplanes and then it looks like bombs, if I seen someone wearing this headdress I would be offended as an American. I am very proud of the third picture, it shows a woman of another culture that she is tending to the American flag, maybe the flag needed repair and she is taking her time to fix it. Even on her wall she shows pride in America. I think the third picture says the strongest statement because it proves that all cultures and religious background can be proud to be called an American and that Americans should not judge base on someones appearance.
The Culture of Thin Bites Fiji 589
(Question 1)
Goodmans argument is that since television came to the Fiji Islands that women of Fiji of changed their opinion of what a healthy attractive woman is. The women of Fiji see the shows on television and see how thin and beautiful the actresses are and maybe they feel that they have been misled on what beauty actually is. Goodman is stating that since television came to the islands, there has been an increase in eating disorders. She has shown strong evidence of that by publishing numbers. Although Anne Becker stays that movie stars do not cause eating disorders, it is hard to argue the facts and numbers on paper. It is not very often that you hear about a female celebrity coming forward and admitting she has an eating disorder, when girls are watching television, they see perfectly healthy, attractive women. Viewers do not take into consideration that celebrities are human and there is always more than meets the eye. I think the last paragraph says a very strong message about women, tweens and girls, they are easily influenced by what they see on television, and at some point those influences could cause the death of them.
Goodmans argument is that since television came to the Fiji Islands that women of Fiji of changed their opinion of what a healthy attractive woman is. The women of Fiji see the shows on television and see how thin and beautiful the actresses are and maybe they feel that they have been misled on what beauty actually is. Goodman is stating that since television came to the islands, there has been an increase in eating disorders. She has shown strong evidence of that by publishing numbers. Although Anne Becker stays that movie stars do not cause eating disorders, it is hard to argue the facts and numbers on paper. It is not very often that you hear about a female celebrity coming forward and admitting she has an eating disorder, when girls are watching television, they see perfectly healthy, attractive women. Viewers do not take into consideration that celebrities are human and there is always more than meets the eye. I think the last paragraph says a very strong message about women, tweens and girls, they are easily influenced by what they see on television, and at some point those influences could cause the death of them.
Grammar Girl 49
run-on sentences
I really liked her explanation and examples of run-on sentences. I have heard the term before, but until I seen the example of it, it didn’t make sense. In the writings I have recently done, I did not see any run-on sentence errors. I liked the way she explained times that it could be appropriate to also use semi colons and commas to set the tone of the sentence. She made it sound like that there was no right or wrong way to fix a run-on sentence, it just depends on how you want the sentence to be read. I think you can pick up on run-on sentence errors when you proofread your paper out loud, when you read the sentences, they just sound funny when they are a run-on. I have also heard the word fused sentence and did not realize that it was the same as a run-on sentence until I listened to Grammar Girl.
I really liked her explanation and examples of run-on sentences. I have heard the term before, but until I seen the example of it, it didn’t make sense. In the writings I have recently done, I did not see any run-on sentence errors. I liked the way she explained times that it could be appropriate to also use semi colons and commas to set the tone of the sentence. She made it sound like that there was no right or wrong way to fix a run-on sentence, it just depends on how you want the sentence to be read. I think you can pick up on run-on sentence errors when you proofread your paper out loud, when you read the sentences, they just sound funny when they are a run-on. I have also heard the word fused sentence and did not realize that it was the same as a run-on sentence until I listened to Grammar Girl.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Grammar Girl- Comma Splice
The first thing I learned was what a comma splice was. I went through a couple papers that I had written, but I did not see where I had any comma splices that I needed to correct. When I proofread my paper out loud, if I had a comma splice, I pick it out. The sentence sounds funny when there is a comma splice. Not only did learn about comma splice, I understand what coordinating conjunctions do, and it made it more clear with her explanation verses reading about it in a book. I also learned a little more about when to use a semi colon and a period versus a comma. Seeing her examples in writing and Grammar Girl reading the sentences allowed made me understand what comma splices were and how to correct them. I like audio and visual when I am learning something new.
Visual Arguments 904
(Question 3)
The images that are portrayed in this article speak a powerful message but only in silence. The pictures show that the young and the old SIKHS are proud to be Americans and not afraid to show their support by either wearing or holding the American flag. The Statue of Liberty stands for freedom and it is saying that the SIKHS are free to honor the American flag and they are free to make the decision to become an American citizen. A lot of American citizens may not approve of this poster because of the events of September 11th, some Americans may group together any culture or religion that wear turbans on their head as terrorist and be upset that they are shown here as being proud of the flag. Americans can be very close minded; they see a symbol and automatically pass judgment on that symbol before knowing all the facts. I think the audience is the American people, the SIKHS are trying to show the Americans that they are good people, not the enemy and that SIKHS of all ages are proud to be in America. A picture says a thousand words, but everyone has their own opinion of the silent message.
The images that are portrayed in this article speak a powerful message but only in silence. The pictures show that the young and the old SIKHS are proud to be Americans and not afraid to show their support by either wearing or holding the American flag. The Statue of Liberty stands for freedom and it is saying that the SIKHS are free to honor the American flag and they are free to make the decision to become an American citizen. A lot of American citizens may not approve of this poster because of the events of September 11th, some Americans may group together any culture or religion that wear turbans on their head as terrorist and be upset that they are shown here as being proud of the flag. Americans can be very close minded; they see a symbol and automatically pass judgment on that symbol before knowing all the facts. I think the audience is the American people, the SIKHS are trying to show the Americans that they are good people, not the enemy and that SIKHS of all ages are proud to be in America. A picture says a thousand words, but everyone has their own opinion of the silent message.
NIMH 781
(Question 1)
I think the advertisement is done in Spanish because NIMH wanted to show that depression is a multi- culture problem and it does not only affect white men. As we seen on TV the Latino man is always portrayed as a tough macho man, he can never have any problems, especially with his health. I like the photo of the man they had chosen for the poster, this man is portrayed as a physically fit Latino young man. When other Latino men see this type of person portrayed, they may stop and read the information and not be afraid to admit to their own depression, because they can relate to the picture portrayed. If NIMH would have chosen a feminine type man, I don’t think the message they are trying to get across to the Latino men would have been as strong. I think they chose to have a portion of the poster in English to show that even the multi-lingual men can have depression. I ask myself, what is a real man? Is it the American man or the Latino man. I think it all depends on the targeted audience and what their perception is.
I think the advertisement is done in Spanish because NIMH wanted to show that depression is a multi- culture problem and it does not only affect white men. As we seen on TV the Latino man is always portrayed as a tough macho man, he can never have any problems, especially with his health. I like the photo of the man they had chosen for the poster, this man is portrayed as a physically fit Latino young man. When other Latino men see this type of person portrayed, they may stop and read the information and not be afraid to admit to their own depression, because they can relate to the picture portrayed. If NIMH would have chosen a feminine type man, I don’t think the message they are trying to get across to the Latino men would have been as strong. I think they chose to have a portion of the poster in English to show that even the multi-lingual men can have depression. I ask myself, what is a real man? Is it the American man or the Latino man. I think it all depends on the targeted audience and what their perception is.
Monday, October 22, 2007
Why and When We Speak Spanish in Public
Myriam Marquez (page 754)
(Question 3)
I think her purpose is to make a strong point that there is a time and a place to speak your own language. She is correct in saying that it is rude to speak your native tongue if you are in a crowd of only English speaking people; she believes that it shows respect to the other individuals in the conversation. I think that voicing her opinion does contribute to the article. In the earlier part of her column, she was expressing her own opinion of the importance of speaking your native tongue. I think it is a trait that is starting to disappear. She is very proud of her heritage and is not afraid to show it in public. She makes a very good point in stating that this is a free country and she should be able to express her strong believes of her heritage. But, when she finished the last three paragraphs, she was also expressing the other side of the situation, respect. She takes into consideration the crowd she is in and does not disregard their native language. I don’t think she is just talking about the English language; she is talking about all languages. Everyone needs to respect each other when they speak.
(Question 3)
I think her purpose is to make a strong point that there is a time and a place to speak your own language. She is correct in saying that it is rude to speak your native tongue if you are in a crowd of only English speaking people; she believes that it shows respect to the other individuals in the conversation. I think that voicing her opinion does contribute to the article. In the earlier part of her column, she was expressing her own opinion of the importance of speaking your native tongue. I think it is a trait that is starting to disappear. She is very proud of her heritage and is not afraid to show it in public. She makes a very good point in stating that this is a free country and she should be able to express her strong believes of her heritage. But, when she finished the last three paragraphs, she was also expressing the other side of the situation, respect. She takes into consideration the crowd she is in and does not disregard their native language. I don’t think she is just talking about the English language; she is talking about all languages. Everyone needs to respect each other when they speak.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Children and Obesity (Proposal Rough Draft)
Obesity in our children is a rising concern in our community. This is an issue that must be addressed not only at home, but also within the school district. Although the Fairbanks North Star Borough meets the food standards for the State of Alaska, they need to incorporate a mandatory Physical Education class during the school day because students need exercise every day, students must learn the importance of exercise and how it affects their health, and students need to burn built up energy outside the classroom.
The State of Alaska requires high school students to take 1 class of health or physical education in order to graduate. Physical education classes in other grade levels are determined by the local school district. Obesity in our children is concern in our nation today, not only should healthy eating and exercise be taught at home, but the school district should also be required to implement a program to educate our children.
School age children should be getting a minimum of 1 hour of daily exercise everyday or most days of the week and school age children should not be stationary for more than 2 hours at a time. There are many afterschool sport activities that are available in our community that children can be involved in, but there is a financial concern for parents to get these children into some of these sports. Children should not be penalized for not being able to afford an exercise activity. Although younger school age children get at least 30 minutes of recess each day, the older students do not get this opportunity. A mandatory physical education class would require student s to be active for a minimum of 30 minutes a day. I understand that cost and time is a major factor in implementing these classes, the school district puts so much effort into other types of learning programs to make our children ready for society, 30 minutes of structured exercise can only be a additional benefit to our children.
The physical education classes should be required to teach the kids the importance of exercise and eating healthy. Students need to realize that the habits they are forming now will follow them into adulthood. Classes should be different each day; they can focus on the proper way to do different exercises that don’t require any special equipment, like running, walking, jumping jacks, sit-ups and push-ups. They can also incorporate into the class the importance of healthy eating, which would involve the new food pyramid and basic recipes. Instructors could discuss the different types of health problems that could occur as adults; type 2 diabetes, heart problems, weight problems, weak bones, high blood pressure and cholesterol levels. They classes could focus on age appropriate material. A one hour class could teach the children so much about their health. One hour a day is not much to ask to help the welfare of our children and their health. Just as any class a child is enrolled in, the learning needs to continue at home with the parents or guardians.
Children are very stationary during the school day; they are required to sit still and listen to their teacher. When some children are required to sit still for a length of time, they will start to bored and become a distraction to the teacher and other students. Some students will start moving around in their seats, talking to other students and become a disturbance to the class. If kids had the opportunity to take a break and let off a little energy they would be more focused during the lessons that are stationary. Just as exercise is a stress reducer for adults it can have the same affect on children. A mandatory physical education class could also lower discipline problems in the classroom.
The parents should really get involved in trying to incorporate a physical education class for all grade levels within our school district. Health problems just don’t arise once a child is in high school; they start while a child is young. Children absorb so much at a young age, if they can learn to be physically active and the importance of eating healthy at a young age; this will help them live a long and happy life as an adult.
The State of Alaska requires high school students to take 1 class of health or physical education in order to graduate. Physical education classes in other grade levels are determined by the local school district. Obesity in our children is concern in our nation today, not only should healthy eating and exercise be taught at home, but the school district should also be required to implement a program to educate our children.
School age children should be getting a minimum of 1 hour of daily exercise everyday or most days of the week and school age children should not be stationary for more than 2 hours at a time. There are many afterschool sport activities that are available in our community that children can be involved in, but there is a financial concern for parents to get these children into some of these sports. Children should not be penalized for not being able to afford an exercise activity. Although younger school age children get at least 30 minutes of recess each day, the older students do not get this opportunity. A mandatory physical education class would require student s to be active for a minimum of 30 minutes a day. I understand that cost and time is a major factor in implementing these classes, the school district puts so much effort into other types of learning programs to make our children ready for society, 30 minutes of structured exercise can only be a additional benefit to our children.
The physical education classes should be required to teach the kids the importance of exercise and eating healthy. Students need to realize that the habits they are forming now will follow them into adulthood. Classes should be different each day; they can focus on the proper way to do different exercises that don’t require any special equipment, like running, walking, jumping jacks, sit-ups and push-ups. They can also incorporate into the class the importance of healthy eating, which would involve the new food pyramid and basic recipes. Instructors could discuss the different types of health problems that could occur as adults; type 2 diabetes, heart problems, weight problems, weak bones, high blood pressure and cholesterol levels. They classes could focus on age appropriate material. A one hour class could teach the children so much about their health. One hour a day is not much to ask to help the welfare of our children and their health. Just as any class a child is enrolled in, the learning needs to continue at home with the parents or guardians.
Children are very stationary during the school day; they are required to sit still and listen to their teacher. When some children are required to sit still for a length of time, they will start to bored and become a distraction to the teacher and other students. Some students will start moving around in their seats, talking to other students and become a disturbance to the class. If kids had the opportunity to take a break and let off a little energy they would be more focused during the lessons that are stationary. Just as exercise is a stress reducer for adults it can have the same affect on children. A mandatory physical education class could also lower discipline problems in the classroom.
The parents should really get involved in trying to incorporate a physical education class for all grade levels within our school district. Health problems just don’t arise once a child is in high school; they start while a child is young. Children absorb so much at a young age, if they can learn to be physically active and the importance of eating healthy at a young age; this will help them live a long and happy life as an adult.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Who's A looter?
page 640
Question 3)
He is coming across to his audience that he is not prejudice; he stated that he has taken many pictures of both black and white people who were considered to be looters. He photographed and told his story as he witnessed it. He seen black and white people taking “stuff” out of the water, not going into buildings, these people were picking up food and drinks, not computers, furniture and unnecessary items for survival. If these people did not take the food or drinks, it may have gone to waste. Just like he stated, he would not have taken anything out of that water, but he was not homeless. All races will do anything for themselves and their families to survive during a disaster. I think he is just getting tired of people accusing him of prejudice statements that in his mind and heart, he did not make.
As far as the mistakes in typing and spelling, I think at this point it is not even a concern of readers. Chris Graythen is famished, he is to the point of just getting his message across one more time and dropping the issue. I do not believe that his errors are taking away from his argument, everyday people do not go through and proofread a article as they read it, they want to understand the message that is coming across. Does this hurt his ethos (reputation)? No, I do not believe it does, he has written many articles and his followers will know that this article just shows that he is angry and exhausted. People tend to talk or write many times before they think when they are upset.
Question 3)
He is coming across to his audience that he is not prejudice; he stated that he has taken many pictures of both black and white people who were considered to be looters. He photographed and told his story as he witnessed it. He seen black and white people taking “stuff” out of the water, not going into buildings, these people were picking up food and drinks, not computers, furniture and unnecessary items for survival. If these people did not take the food or drinks, it may have gone to waste. Just like he stated, he would not have taken anything out of that water, but he was not homeless. All races will do anything for themselves and their families to survive during a disaster. I think he is just getting tired of people accusing him of prejudice statements that in his mind and heart, he did not make.
As far as the mistakes in typing and spelling, I think at this point it is not even a concern of readers. Chris Graythen is famished, he is to the point of just getting his message across one more time and dropping the issue. I do not believe that his errors are taking away from his argument, everyday people do not go through and proofread a article as they read it, they want to understand the message that is coming across. Does this hurt his ethos (reputation)? No, I do not believe it does, he has written many articles and his followers will know that this article just shows that he is angry and exhausted. People tend to talk or write many times before they think when they are upset.
Friday, October 12, 2007
Acid Rain Anno Bibs
It is disappointing to travel to a place of history, such as Arlington Cemetery, and noticed the tombstones are deteriorating. How about planning a fishing trip to a lake with your kids and there is a sign that says “No Fishing, high mercury.” Oh yeah, and don’t forget for some reason you keep coughing during those trips. Although the combustion of fossil fuels is necessary to provide power that drives our society and industries, it could also present the problem of acid rain, because of acid rain contamination, our aquatic life, human life and our manmade structures can be affected.
Lee, Jennifer. “3 Northeast States Win Verdict against a Utility” The New York Times 8 Aug. 2003
This article goes over the fact that power companies are being fined for not installing better pollution controls. It covers who is bringing the charges against the power companies and what the charges are. Power companies are trying to utilize routine maintenance as a way of controlling their pollutants. Power plant companies must be responsible for their own actions and how they affect the environment.
Watson, John. “What is Acid Rain?” (USGS) 21 Jul. 1997
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Effects of Acid Rain-Surface Waters and Aquatic Animals. 8 Jun. 2007
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Reducing Acid Rain. 8 Jun. 2007
Global Warming Awareness 2007. Acid Rain. 5 Feb. 2007
“Air pollution.” World Almanac & Book of Facts. 2005: p 176-176. Academic Search Premier. EBSCOhost.
This was a small article that gave an estimated number of deaths due to air pollution. It touches on what happens when sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides are combined. It shows how acid rain not only affects the United States, but how it can affect other countries.
“Analysis: Study shows lakes and streams slower to recover from acid rain than previously thought”. NPR. Edwards, Bob. Morning Edition (NPR). 3 Mar. 2001.. Academic Search Premier. EBSCOhost.
In this discussion on NPR they had some researchers being interviewed on what their thoughts were on acid rain and the long term affects. It is also how acid rain contains aluminum and how that can affect streams. They talk about the already damaged environment and how we can fix it.
Bauerlein, Monika. “Every Breath You Take.” Sierra Jul/Aug 2006: p56-78 Vol. 91 Issue 4. Academic Search Premier. EBSCOhost.
I came across this article and found it very interesting on the number of Americans killed each year by air pollution. It talked about 6 coal fired power plants that have racked up more than 7,600 violations since 1999. It touched on a child with asthma and how the polluted air affected him.
Krajick, Kevin “Long-term data show lingering effects from acid rain.” Science 13 Apr. 2001: Vol. 292. Academic Search Premier. EBSCOhost.
I like how this article started out “ Acid Rain is like a bad penny: every time you think you’ve passed it off, it shows up in your life again.” It goes into detail about if we find one way to help the environment, then that is all we need to do, like it is now going to disappear from radar. Acid rain effects are never going to be gone; they will just be swepted under the rug.
Hedin, Lars O., and Gene E. Likens. “Atmospheric dust and acid rain.” Scientific America Dec. 1996: p88 Vol. 275 Issue 6. Academic Search Premier. EBSCOhost.
This article goes in and talks about why acid rain is now more complex than we once thought. It gives the description of acid rain being “a natural acid”, like the affects of Tums on our stomachs. Acid rain is going to be around forever and this article talks about how we can at least find ways to help the environment and not make the affects so noticeable.
Mason, Betsy. “Why We Still Have Turtles.” Science Now 6 Jun. 2003: p1. Academic Search Premier. EBSCOhost.
This article started out about a meteorite that hit the Earth 65 million years ago. It shows that air pollution has been around for a lot of years, it is not a new problem with the environment. It discusses how a lot of the land animals died and why 90% of the freshwater species survived. It goes into detail of why we still have turtles.
“US power firm end suit over acid rain.” The Australian 10 Oct. 2007. Academic Search Premier. EBSCOhost.
This goes into detail about a lawsuit against American Electric Power and how this company polluted the air by producing acid rain chemicals. This company ended up paying $60 million dollars in pollution cost. It also touches base on other companies that are going through law suites at this time. It also states that “environmentalists blame acid rain caused by coal-fired power plants for plaguing the northeast over the past 25 years.”
Downing, Bob. “It takes a huge smokestack to clean up the nation’s air.” Akron Beacon Journal 10 Oct. 2007. Academic Search Premier. EBSCOhost.
This was an interesting newspaper article that explained how power plants are trying to help the environment by adding new smoke stacks. It manly focuses on the W.H. Sammis Power plant in Ohio which is owned by FirstEnergy Corp. It shows that some companies are willing to put out the money to help with the pollution. This smoke stack will add scrubbers that will help reduce emissions.
Drummund, B Ayres Jr. “ Gettysburgh Journal: With Acid rain, can history Long Endure?” The New York Times 20 Jun. 1989
This was an older article that I found quite interesting because if focuses on the damaged that has already happened to our historical monuments. It does take time for deterioration of monuments, it does not happen overnight. This article should the long term affect. What are these monuments going to look like when are kids are grown up?
Sinha, Richa. “Global warming- Adverse effects of acid rain!” http://www.energyefficienthomearticles.com
This article talks about how acid rain can wash away nutrients in the soil and affect the growth trees in the environment. It also talks about how acid rain can cause premature death and other health concerns. It went on to talk about the affects it can have the minerals that make up our monuments and buildings.
Lee, Jennifer. “3 Northeast States Win Verdict against a Utility” The New York Times 8 Aug. 2003
This article goes over the fact that power companies are being fined for not installing better pollution controls. It covers who is bringing the charges against the power companies and what the charges are. Power companies are trying to utilize routine maintenance as a way of controlling their pollutants. Power plant companies must be responsible for their own actions and how they affect the environment.
Watson, John. “What is Acid Rain?” (USGS) 21 Jul. 1997
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Effects of Acid Rain-Surface Waters and Aquatic Animals. 8 Jun. 2007
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Reducing Acid Rain. 8 Jun. 2007
Global Warming Awareness 2007. Acid Rain. 5 Feb. 2007
“Air pollution.” World Almanac & Book of Facts. 2005: p 176-176. Academic Search Premier. EBSCOhost.
This was a small article that gave an estimated number of deaths due to air pollution. It touches on what happens when sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides are combined. It shows how acid rain not only affects the United States, but how it can affect other countries.
“Analysis: Study shows lakes and streams slower to recover from acid rain than previously thought”. NPR. Edwards, Bob. Morning Edition (NPR). 3 Mar. 2001.. Academic Search Premier. EBSCOhost.
In this discussion on NPR they had some researchers being interviewed on what their thoughts were on acid rain and the long term affects. It is also how acid rain contains aluminum and how that can affect streams. They talk about the already damaged environment and how we can fix it.
Bauerlein, Monika. “Every Breath You Take.” Sierra Jul/Aug 2006: p56-78 Vol. 91 Issue 4. Academic Search Premier. EBSCOhost.
I came across this article and found it very interesting on the number of Americans killed each year by air pollution. It talked about 6 coal fired power plants that have racked up more than 7,600 violations since 1999. It touched on a child with asthma and how the polluted air affected him.
Krajick, Kevin “Long-term data show lingering effects from acid rain.” Science 13 Apr. 2001: Vol. 292. Academic Search Premier. EBSCOhost.
I like how this article started out “ Acid Rain is like a bad penny: every time you think you’ve passed it off, it shows up in your life again.” It goes into detail about if we find one way to help the environment, then that is all we need to do, like it is now going to disappear from radar. Acid rain effects are never going to be gone; they will just be swepted under the rug.
Hedin, Lars O., and Gene E. Likens. “Atmospheric dust and acid rain.” Scientific America Dec. 1996: p88 Vol. 275 Issue 6. Academic Search Premier. EBSCOhost.
This article goes in and talks about why acid rain is now more complex than we once thought. It gives the description of acid rain being “a natural acid”, like the affects of Tums on our stomachs. Acid rain is going to be around forever and this article talks about how we can at least find ways to help the environment and not make the affects so noticeable.
Mason, Betsy. “Why We Still Have Turtles.” Science Now 6 Jun. 2003: p1. Academic Search Premier. EBSCOhost.
This article started out about a meteorite that hit the Earth 65 million years ago. It shows that air pollution has been around for a lot of years, it is not a new problem with the environment. It discusses how a lot of the land animals died and why 90% of the freshwater species survived. It goes into detail of why we still have turtles.
“US power firm end suit over acid rain.” The Australian 10 Oct. 2007. Academic Search Premier. EBSCOhost.
This goes into detail about a lawsuit against American Electric Power and how this company polluted the air by producing acid rain chemicals. This company ended up paying $60 million dollars in pollution cost. It also touches base on other companies that are going through law suites at this time. It also states that “environmentalists blame acid rain caused by coal-fired power plants for plaguing the northeast over the past 25 years.”
Downing, Bob. “It takes a huge smokestack to clean up the nation’s air.” Akron Beacon Journal 10 Oct. 2007. Academic Search Premier. EBSCOhost.
This was an interesting newspaper article that explained how power plants are trying to help the environment by adding new smoke stacks. It manly focuses on the W.H. Sammis Power plant in Ohio which is owned by FirstEnergy Corp. It shows that some companies are willing to put out the money to help with the pollution. This smoke stack will add scrubbers that will help reduce emissions.
Drummund, B Ayres Jr. “ Gettysburgh Journal: With Acid rain, can history Long Endure?” The New York Times 20 Jun. 1989
This was an older article that I found quite interesting because if focuses on the damaged that has already happened to our historical monuments. It does take time for deterioration of monuments, it does not happen overnight. This article should the long term affect. What are these monuments going to look like when are kids are grown up?
Sinha, Richa. “Global warming- Adverse effects of acid rain!” http://www.energyefficienthomearticles.com
This article talks about how acid rain can wash away nutrients in the soil and affect the growth trees in the environment. It also talks about how acid rain can cause premature death and other health concerns. It went on to talk about the affects it can have the minerals that make up our monuments and buildings.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Is it Plagiarism?
Is it considered plagiarism if I use someones elses opinion, graph or actual spoken words if I note it in my bibliography at the end?
Making a Visual Argument (934)
(Question 3)
The cartoons by Mike Thompson and Signe Wilkinson make very similar arguments because they both show that no matter what, if you are a minority or have a certain skin color, you will get into college.
I can see the difference between both cartoons. In the cartoon by Mike Thompson, it shows a young boy that had a tough upbringing; he had to face violence every day, live on a low income, and had to avoid the temptations of drugs, gangs and racism. Even though he had all these obstacles to overcome, he still made it into college. Although he worked hard and stayed in school, he may have earned that right to attend college, but with a little help from the Supreme Court ruling he was guaranteed to get in due to his skin color. When I look at the Admissions cartoon by Signe Wilkinson, I see students that had something going for them, whether it be money, a certain last name, a talent in a sport or even the right skin color. I look at these students and that is how they got into college, to me they did not work hard they just had the right connections. When I look at the guy who did not get in, I see a spoiled boy who expected to get into college based on the things I listed above. Colleges allow a certain amount of students to attend each year; they will make sure that they meet their quota of minority students.
The cartoons by Mike Thompson and Signe Wilkinson make very similar arguments because they both show that no matter what, if you are a minority or have a certain skin color, you will get into college.
I can see the difference between both cartoons. In the cartoon by Mike Thompson, it shows a young boy that had a tough upbringing; he had to face violence every day, live on a low income, and had to avoid the temptations of drugs, gangs and racism. Even though he had all these obstacles to overcome, he still made it into college. Although he worked hard and stayed in school, he may have earned that right to attend college, but with a little help from the Supreme Court ruling he was guaranteed to get in due to his skin color. When I look at the Admissions cartoon by Signe Wilkinson, I see students that had something going for them, whether it be money, a certain last name, a talent in a sport or even the right skin color. I look at these students and that is how they got into college, to me they did not work hard they just had the right connections. When I look at the guy who did not get in, I see a spoiled boy who expected to get into college based on the things I listed above. Colleges allow a certain amount of students to attend each year; they will make sure that they meet their quota of minority students.
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
An Opportunity for Intelligent Debate (884)
(Question 2)
The definition for divisive is “causing disagreement or hostility within a group so that it is likely to split”; once I understood the meaning I was able to understand the question better. I would have to disagree with Zwier, he states that a visual argument is not divisive, although in my opinion a button is still expressing what you feel without words coming out of your month. You don’t always have to be verbal to voice your opinion; sometimes silence is the best way to get your point across.
I think they can be compared because whether they stand in front of the auditorium or wearing something on their shirt; they are still expressing their feelings. To me they only difference between the two is that the button may not be as noticeable as a crowd of people holding signs and yelling opinions. Both ways are a powerful way to protest.
The definition for divisive is “causing disagreement or hostility within a group so that it is likely to split”; once I understood the meaning I was able to understand the question better. I would have to disagree with Zwier, he states that a visual argument is not divisive, although in my opinion a button is still expressing what you feel without words coming out of your month. You don’t always have to be verbal to voice your opinion; sometimes silence is the best way to get your point across.
I think they can be compared because whether they stand in front of the auditorium or wearing something on their shirt; they are still expressing their feelings. To me they only difference between the two is that the button may not be as noticeable as a crowd of people holding signs and yelling opinions. Both ways are a powerful way to protest.
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Making a Visual Argument (822)
(Question 4)
I think the target audience for the “I am my anti-drug” campaign is college students and young adults making a good name for them. I think they are directing this advertisement to all races, regardless of sex.
I think they are putting the message out to catch the young adult’s attention. Maybe they are saying that even though you are young and successful, you are not invisible. The opportunity for drug use is readily available, and you need to be your own anti-drug.
Looking at the three “I am my anti-drug” advertisements I think the one that comes across to me is the one called “labeled”, my first impression was a gang member, drug user and pusher. But, as I read the description below I realized that he has a family and that he is athletic. Is amazing how a just a picture can express things differently to people, but add a few words and your whole prospective changes.
I think the advertisements are great, it makes you realize that drugs are a issue for all minorities and sex. It is not just certain races that have a drug problem.
I think the target audience for the “I am my anti-drug” campaign is college students and young adults making a good name for them. I think they are directing this advertisement to all races, regardless of sex.
I think they are putting the message out to catch the young adult’s attention. Maybe they are saying that even though you are young and successful, you are not invisible. The opportunity for drug use is readily available, and you need to be your own anti-drug.
Looking at the three “I am my anti-drug” advertisements I think the one that comes across to me is the one called “labeled”, my first impression was a gang member, drug user and pusher. But, as I read the description below I realized that he has a family and that he is athletic. Is amazing how a just a picture can express things differently to people, but add a few words and your whole prospective changes.
I think the advertisements are great, it makes you realize that drugs are a issue for all minorities and sex. It is not just certain races that have a drug problem.
Can We Talk?
Tannen -830
(Question 1)
I think there are two sides to this story. As I read this it comes across how alike mothers and daughters really are. The mother was once a daughter and she may have learned her behavior (as a mother) from her mother. The daughters think that they can never please their mother, but in turn, the mother may have set such high standards for their daughter. I agree is does make it difficult to have an open honest relationship with each other. Both the mother and daughter are always assuming they are going to be criticized by each other.
When I read the portion, Who Cares? I think daughters are always looking for someone to care for them like their mother. Mom was always there when you had a cut, she was the one who kissed it and made it better. That is why some women make an issue out of little things, like a paper cut. They are looking for the sympathy they were given as a child. In times like these, mothers always know best and are always right.
I think mothers and sons have it easier when they communicate. The mother does not set the same type of standards for their son as their daughter. I am sure there are grown men out there that still call their mom when they have a cut on their finger. Men also still need that reassurance that someone cares.
(Question 1)
I think there are two sides to this story. As I read this it comes across how alike mothers and daughters really are. The mother was once a daughter and she may have learned her behavior (as a mother) from her mother. The daughters think that they can never please their mother, but in turn, the mother may have set such high standards for their daughter. I agree is does make it difficult to have an open honest relationship with each other. Both the mother and daughter are always assuming they are going to be criticized by each other.
When I read the portion, Who Cares? I think daughters are always looking for someone to care for them like their mother. Mom was always there when you had a cut, she was the one who kissed it and made it better. That is why some women make an issue out of little things, like a paper cut. They are looking for the sympathy they were given as a child. In times like these, mothers always know best and are always right.
I think mothers and sons have it easier when they communicate. The mother does not set the same type of standards for their son as their daughter. I am sure there are grown men out there that still call their mom when they have a cut on their finger. Men also still need that reassurance that someone cares.
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Grammar Girl Proofreading Tips
I thought this podcast was very helpful and reassuring to me. She points out that human error is inevitable, no matter how much you proofread; you could still submit a paper with a mistake. I tried all 4 of her tips on different writings I have done.
Her first tip was to read your paper backwards, tried it, couldn’t do it. I keep relating back to the old myth that if you listen to your records backwards, some sort of satanic message would come across.
I read my work out loud, that is something I have always done. I did find a couple errors like writing a word twice, but I found it hard to find punctuation errors.
I am not sure if it is the glare on the computer or just the constant staring at the screen, but I did find a couple errors in spelling once I printed out my paper.
And last but not least, I walked away. I think if I am trying too hard to find errors, I won’t find them. Once I rested my eyes, I came back.
For me, the hardest part about proofreading is the punctuation; I still get confused when to use a comma, semi colon, etc….but, I have made some improvement since I started this class.
Her first tip was to read your paper backwards, tried it, couldn’t do it. I keep relating back to the old myth that if you listen to your records backwards, some sort of satanic message would come across.
I read my work out loud, that is something I have always done. I did find a couple errors like writing a word twice, but I found it hard to find punctuation errors.
I am not sure if it is the glare on the computer or just the constant staring at the screen, but I did find a couple errors in spelling once I printed out my paper.
And last but not least, I walked away. I think if I am trying too hard to find errors, I won’t find them. Once I rested my eyes, I came back.
For me, the hardest part about proofreading is the punctuation; I still get confused when to use a comma, semi colon, etc….but, I have made some improvement since I started this class.
Exporting America
(Question 1)
When I looked at these photos, two different aspects of American products came to mind, which would lead to the why I am proud of some advertisements and not others.
I would like to discuss the advertisements that I am proud of first.
A. Disneyland/Walt Disney World is advertised to be “the happiest place on Earth,” it’s nice to see smiles on a child’s face when wearing a Disney shirt.
B. The gentleman wearing a Nike shirt also shows a product that we should be proud of. Nike is such a strong, well supported company that just a logo makes a statement. When I think of Nike, I think of shoes and exercise.
C. The McDonald’s sign in Shanghai is one be proud of. McDonald’s is an American Icon; the golden arches have been a symbol that kids of all ages look for when they are traveling. People think if they see a McDonald’s they know they are going to get some “good American food.”
There are a couple advertisements that do not make me very proud.
A. The young girl in China wearing the red, short Budweiser dress really caught my eye. It looks as though they are promoting beer and exploiting women. Why couldn’t the advertisement be a man at a sporting event wearing a Budweiser T-shirt? It is not the fact that she is wearing a beer logo; it’s the way the logo is presented.
B. I think the advertisement in Iran would make a better statement for Coke if the boys were drinking their coke at a different location. It comes across to me that the store is promoting Coke and Marlboro to children.
When I looked at these photos, two different aspects of American products came to mind, which would lead to the why I am proud of some advertisements and not others.
I would like to discuss the advertisements that I am proud of first.
A. Disneyland/Walt Disney World is advertised to be “the happiest place on Earth,” it’s nice to see smiles on a child’s face when wearing a Disney shirt.
B. The gentleman wearing a Nike shirt also shows a product that we should be proud of. Nike is such a strong, well supported company that just a logo makes a statement. When I think of Nike, I think of shoes and exercise.
C. The McDonald’s sign in Shanghai is one be proud of. McDonald’s is an American Icon; the golden arches have been a symbol that kids of all ages look for when they are traveling. People think if they see a McDonald’s they know they are going to get some “good American food.”
There are a couple advertisements that do not make me very proud.
A. The young girl in China wearing the red, short Budweiser dress really caught my eye. It looks as though they are promoting beer and exploiting women. Why couldn’t the advertisement be a man at a sporting event wearing a Budweiser T-shirt? It is not the fact that she is wearing a beer logo; it’s the way the logo is presented.
B. I think the advertisement in Iran would make a better statement for Coke if the boys were drinking their coke at a different location. It comes across to me that the store is promoting Coke and Marlboro to children.
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Gendering Language: Women and Men Speaking
(Question 3)
In my opinion the cartoon that I found most successful was:
"Talk to me, Alice. I speak woman.”
At first glance, I got the perception that maybe the women is in a psychiatrist office and wanting to discuss her problems. Then, the more I studied the picture, I changed my perception, I believe it is a husband and wife.
He is letting the wife know that he is here and ready to hear what she has to say. The husbands’ statement says that he completely understands how she is feeling and what she needs. Since they are in a one on one situation, he is also expressing that fact that he is only focused on her, there are no outside distractions. This is a good example of constructive communication.
The cartoon I found least successful was:
“Look, all I’m saying is….”
This looks like a business meeting and the men out number the women. No matter what her comments are they are not going to take her seriously and they will probably have some sort of sarcastic remark. I think men find it hard to be connected to women’s feelings when they are in a group of other men. They are going to make any comments that make them look masculine.
This cartoon does not show a strong example of quality communication between a man and women. Whenever there is a conversation where one sex out numbers the other, communication is not going to be gratifying.
In my opinion the cartoon that I found most successful was:
"Talk to me, Alice. I speak woman.”
At first glance, I got the perception that maybe the women is in a psychiatrist office and wanting to discuss her problems. Then, the more I studied the picture, I changed my perception, I believe it is a husband and wife.
He is letting the wife know that he is here and ready to hear what she has to say. The husbands’ statement says that he completely understands how she is feeling and what she needs. Since they are in a one on one situation, he is also expressing that fact that he is only focused on her, there are no outside distractions. This is a good example of constructive communication.
The cartoon I found least successful was:
“Look, all I’m saying is….”
This looks like a business meeting and the men out number the women. No matter what her comments are they are not going to take her seriously and they will probably have some sort of sarcastic remark. I think men find it hard to be connected to women’s feelings when they are in a group of other men. They are going to make any comments that make them look masculine.
This cartoon does not show a strong example of quality communication between a man and women. Whenever there is a conversation where one sex out numbers the other, communication is not going to be gratifying.
Monday, October 1, 2007
SIDE OF THE ROAD vs PUBLIC REST STOP (final draft)
Were you ever driving down the highway in Alaska and all of a sudden nature calls, unless you are a superhero by the name of “Bladder of Steel,” the answer is yes, but where is the best place to stop? Depending on the time of year, you can choose to go to a rest stop, outhouse, gas station or even the side of the road. Although the State of Alaska provides limited maintenance for highway public rest stops for summer tourism, it needs attention. Because of this limited maintenance, a disservice is placed upon year-round residents and visitors, forces private businesses to provide this service and makes for a very long car ride.
I remember as a child going on family trips in the car from Indiana to Florida. One of the biggest highlights of our numerous trips was the idea of stopping at a rest stop; we were to take care of our business and then were able to run free and stretch our legs for a few minutes. I could always remember that the rest stops were very clean, safe, and attainable anytime of the year. The rest stops served as a good break for my parents and break from the 3 kids in the back yelling, "I have to go to the bathroom!" The rest stops were built in a manner that provided a wonderful service to visitors and residents. Now that I am a parent of two children, I want to pass on the joy of car trips I enjoyed as child. I have noticed since moving to Alaska that our road trips are not very enjoyable. If we decide to make a summer trip we knew that we had plenty of places to stop, use the facilities and stretch our legs. But, if we decided to make a trip between Labor Day and May 15th it would make for a different experience. The reason, public facilities are not open or properly maintained after Labor Day. Tourists visit the State of Alaska year round just as the residents travel every day.
What about the residents that want to take off and see the fall colors or go shopping in Anchorage? How about the tourist who want to come to Alaska to see the Northern Lights? What should they to do when nature calls? With the public facilities few and far between and not properly maintained, I believe more waste is going to be left on the side of the road. The state needs to maintain these facilities year round to provide residents and tourists a pleasant car trip anytime of year.
Although gas stations are opened year round, they should not be responsible for providing this service. They could say, “If you want to use the bathroom, you need to buy something," or a sign could be posted that says "No public restrooms," then what are people to do? How far away is the next restroom and what are their policies? I believe that if I am stopping to get gas, buying coffee or snacks, I should be able to use their facilities; I am bringing them a profit that will help offset the cost of the electricity used in the bathroom and the sewage disposal. But, why should gas stations provide this service if they get nothing in return, but waste.
A road trip should not have to be such an unpleasant experience between Labor Day and May 15th. Why should parents have to tell children "you need to hold it" because there is not a maintained public rest stop on a major road. Do you stop and let them relieve themselves on the side of the road? Tourist and residents are going to use whatever means available, including the side of the road, to make themselves comfortable.
We live in a profitable state, a certain amount of money should be allotted to build new facilities or even maintain and repair the facilities we already have in place. We do not pay taxes on our tourist but yet we take care of them, why not take care of the residents of Alaska with the taxes we are paying. We need to provide a wonderful experience to anyone who travels with inthe State of Alaska anytime of year.
I remember as a child going on family trips in the car from Indiana to Florida. One of the biggest highlights of our numerous trips was the idea of stopping at a rest stop; we were to take care of our business and then were able to run free and stretch our legs for a few minutes. I could always remember that the rest stops were very clean, safe, and attainable anytime of the year. The rest stops served as a good break for my parents and break from the 3 kids in the back yelling, "I have to go to the bathroom!" The rest stops were built in a manner that provided a wonderful service to visitors and residents. Now that I am a parent of two children, I want to pass on the joy of car trips I enjoyed as child. I have noticed since moving to Alaska that our road trips are not very enjoyable. If we decide to make a summer trip we knew that we had plenty of places to stop, use the facilities and stretch our legs. But, if we decided to make a trip between Labor Day and May 15th it would make for a different experience. The reason, public facilities are not open or properly maintained after Labor Day. Tourists visit the State of Alaska year round just as the residents travel every day.
What about the residents that want to take off and see the fall colors or go shopping in Anchorage? How about the tourist who want to come to Alaska to see the Northern Lights? What should they to do when nature calls? With the public facilities few and far between and not properly maintained, I believe more waste is going to be left on the side of the road. The state needs to maintain these facilities year round to provide residents and tourists a pleasant car trip anytime of year.
Although gas stations are opened year round, they should not be responsible for providing this service. They could say, “If you want to use the bathroom, you need to buy something," or a sign could be posted that says "No public restrooms," then what are people to do? How far away is the next restroom and what are their policies? I believe that if I am stopping to get gas, buying coffee or snacks, I should be able to use their facilities; I am bringing them a profit that will help offset the cost of the electricity used in the bathroom and the sewage disposal. But, why should gas stations provide this service if they get nothing in return, but waste.
A road trip should not have to be such an unpleasant experience between Labor Day and May 15th. Why should parents have to tell children "you need to hold it" because there is not a maintained public rest stop on a major road. Do you stop and let them relieve themselves on the side of the road? Tourist and residents are going to use whatever means available, including the side of the road, to make themselves comfortable.
We live in a profitable state, a certain amount of money should be allotted to build new facilities or even maintain and repair the facilities we already have in place. We do not pay taxes on our tourist but yet we take care of them, why not take care of the residents of Alaska with the taxes we are paying. We need to provide a wonderful experience to anyone who travels with inthe State of Alaska anytime of year.
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