Friday, February 27, 2009
Times Log Week 4
Friday: I checked the Times online today because I was unable to get a paper. I was happy to see the article detailing Obama's plans to withdraw troops from Iraq by the end of next summer. While 50,000 troops will remain in Iraq, instead of participating in combat, they will be training Iraqi security forces. I was also really surprised to see the article about the Rocky Mountain News closing. Rocky Mountain News was Colorado's oldest newspaper and had tried for three months to find a buyer. Unfortunately, given the current economic situation of the nation, no buyers came forward. The 150th and last issue was published today.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Times Log Week 4
Thursday: Todays Times reminded me how much of a difference pictures can make. Two particular articles caught my eye and made me more sympathetic to the article before I had even read one word. The first was the front page story about David Cameron, a British polititian, and the tragic story of his son. Born with cerebral palsy, little Ivan only made it to his sixth birthday. Although it's a sad subject, speaking about his son remains an effective way to highlight Cameron to the public. The second article I was drawn to because of its picture was the piece about a Turkish airline crashing in Amsterdam. No color is needed to emphasize the destruction of the crash. The plane seems to be sliced in half as emergency crews dash around the site trying to help. Since the crash was so sudden, a cause has yet to be determined. Stories like this always make me feel nervous and unsure about flying.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Times Log Week 4
Wednesday: I liked the Times today because it felt very optimistic. For instance, two of the front page articles described Obama's future plans to better America. The first was proposing a pull out of troops from Iraq around 2010. Although this decision is still being discussed, there's a promising light at the end of this six year long war. The other inspiring article highlighted Obama's address to a joint session of Congress regarding dragging the nation out of its daunting economic crisis. In this address, Obama mentioned several strategies to aid in the economic deficit, two of which being finding other energy resources besides oil and capping greenhouse gas emissions.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Times Log
Tuesday: I looked throught the whole Times today and really enjoyed the article about Slumdog Millionaire. The massive success of what was refered to as a "starless film" by the Times has blazed a trail for other small film makers. Upon seeing the film myself, I was shocked that I hadn't seen it advertised before. Indeed, I saw the first commercial for it just yesterday. Considering that it won eight Oscars, Slumdog will hopefully set a trend for other such eye-opening films about other cultures. I was also interested in the article about an Iraqi museum reopening after 6 years due to looting. Last semester I took an anthropology class that focused on archeology and learned about the repercussions of looting on the archeologist, the site, the country and the museum. It was neat to see this played out in real life.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
On Campus Options for Anyone Struggling with Eating
Part two of a three part film and discussion series Weight: A Cultural Obsession took place in theater 1 of the MUB at 7 pm Tuesday night.
This session’s film entitled Having Your Cake: Goodbye to Bulimia, told how four young women realized they had bulimia and how they overcame this deadly disease.
Suzanne Sonneborn, a Nutrition Educator from Health Services, greeted the small audience of no more than ten females by announcing the numerous resources UNH offers for individuals who need to talk about issues such as eating disorders. In addition to informative events like this film and discussion series, there are more private options such as support groups and counselors, both adult and peer.
“This is the fourth film series we’ve done,” explained Sonneborn, who considers it “a good way to educate people about such a controversial topic.”
The final film of this particular series will be shown on February 24 at 7 pm in the MUB theater 1. For information on other film and discussion series as well as other support groups, check out the UNH Health Services website.
After the film, Sonneborn held a brief discussion with the audience by posing about five questions. Through this discussion, the audience learned that the most common eating disorder is compulsive eating, also known as binge eating. The audience also learned that because it is easier to conceal, bulimia is more common than anorexia nervosa.
Furthermore, research has shown that students learn better from their peers than they do from an adult source, Sonneborn claimed as she introduced two peer educators, sophomore Joanne Fitzgerald and freshman Eva-Molly Dunbar.
Every Thursday from 1-2:30 pm, Fitzgerald and Dunbar co-facilitate a peer support group that meets in the Batchellor House and discusses eating disorders along with any other nutritional issues. This group is open to all UNH students that are concerned or interested in anything related to body image.
While Dunbar joined the group so she could educate others about nutritional issues, Fitzgerald was interested in meeting people with similar interests, learning new things, and getting involved around campus.
Indeed, their group is responsible for rec tables, cooking classes, programs for sororities and dorms, as well as promoting fruits and veggies with posters around campus.
When asked if they feel like they are truly making a difference, both girls immediately answered yes.
“We’ve had people come up to us and ask us about our posters and we have different people coming to the group all the time,” said Fitzgerald.
Support groups like the one Fitzgerald and Dunbar are involved in are a fantastic resource for college students, especially considering that eating disorders are way more prevalent on college campuses than at any other level of schooling. Sonneborn attributes this influx to the additional stress and peer pressure that is introduced with the new climate of college.
While Fitzgerald and Dunbar both agreed that it’s difficult to make healthy choices given the overwhelming options in the dining halls, they also agreed that the more awareness about nutrition the better.
So why then, would these two peer educators of nutrition be against the new nutrition table present in Philbrook Dining Hall?
“It would be better if they just marked the healthy options rather than displaying all the numbers,” said Fitzgerald.
“It shouldn’t be in your face,” agreed Sonneborn. “It can be a risk to those who suffer with food and eating.”
While the dining halls explain that it has become a national trend to display nutrition information, Sonneborn argues that a college campus is made up of a very different audience than the average American.
Sonneborn is meeting with the Dining subcommittee to discuss this issue and perhaps develop a compromise later this week.
In the meantime, Fitzgerald has some advice for the college student worrying about what he or she eats: “Listen to what you’re hungry for and if you’re craving it, eat it!”
This session’s film entitled Having Your Cake: Goodbye to Bulimia, told how four young women realized they had bulimia and how they overcame this deadly disease.
Suzanne Sonneborn, a Nutrition Educator from Health Services, greeted the small audience of no more than ten females by announcing the numerous resources UNH offers for individuals who need to talk about issues such as eating disorders. In addition to informative events like this film and discussion series, there are more private options such as support groups and counselors, both adult and peer.
“This is the fourth film series we’ve done,” explained Sonneborn, who considers it “a good way to educate people about such a controversial topic.”
The final film of this particular series will be shown on February 24 at 7 pm in the MUB theater 1. For information on other film and discussion series as well as other support groups, check out the UNH Health Services website.
After the film, Sonneborn held a brief discussion with the audience by posing about five questions. Through this discussion, the audience learned that the most common eating disorder is compulsive eating, also known as binge eating. The audience also learned that because it is easier to conceal, bulimia is more common than anorexia nervosa.
Furthermore, research has shown that students learn better from their peers than they do from an adult source, Sonneborn claimed as she introduced two peer educators, sophomore Joanne Fitzgerald and freshman Eva-Molly Dunbar.
Every Thursday from 1-2:30 pm, Fitzgerald and Dunbar co-facilitate a peer support group that meets in the Batchellor House and discusses eating disorders along with any other nutritional issues. This group is open to all UNH students that are concerned or interested in anything related to body image.
While Dunbar joined the group so she could educate others about nutritional issues, Fitzgerald was interested in meeting people with similar interests, learning new things, and getting involved around campus.
Indeed, their group is responsible for rec tables, cooking classes, programs for sororities and dorms, as well as promoting fruits and veggies with posters around campus.
When asked if they feel like they are truly making a difference, both girls immediately answered yes.
“We’ve had people come up to us and ask us about our posters and we have different people coming to the group all the time,” said Fitzgerald.
Support groups like the one Fitzgerald and Dunbar are involved in are a fantastic resource for college students, especially considering that eating disorders are way more prevalent on college campuses than at any other level of schooling. Sonneborn attributes this influx to the additional stress and peer pressure that is introduced with the new climate of college.
While Fitzgerald and Dunbar both agreed that it’s difficult to make healthy choices given the overwhelming options in the dining halls, they also agreed that the more awareness about nutrition the better.
So why then, would these two peer educators of nutrition be against the new nutrition table present in Philbrook Dining Hall?
“It would be better if they just marked the healthy options rather than displaying all the numbers,” said Fitzgerald.
“It shouldn’t be in your face,” agreed Sonneborn. “It can be a risk to those who suffer with food and eating.”
While the dining halls explain that it has become a national trend to display nutrition information, Sonneborn argues that a college campus is made up of a very different audience than the average American.
Sonneborn is meeting with the Dining subcommittee to discuss this issue and perhaps develop a compromise later this week.
In the meantime, Fitzgerald has some advice for the college student worrying about what he or she eats: “Listen to what you’re hungry for and if you’re craving it, eat it!”
Friday, February 20, 2009
Times Log Week 3
Friday: I really wasn't pleased with the Times today. While I was relieved to not see a bunch of articles reporting casualties from the wars in the Middle East, nearly none of the articles grabbed my attention. I was partly interested in the article that claimed a tamer version of the Broadway production 'Rent' was still considered too wild for some schools. Although I haven't seen the play myself, I'm familiar with the story line and believe the issues in the play should be discussed, not banned. My interest was also piqued with the article about Jane Goody, a reality star that is dying from cervical cancer and might make a reality show out of her last months or years on Earth. While I imagine many people will tune in to watch such a controversial show, I have better things to do than watch Ms. Goody die on camera.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Times Log Week 3
Thursday: I really didn't like the Times today. It seemed every article was about either politics or economics. Although I know it is important to learn about these subjects- both national and international- they bore me to death. However, an article about a Colorado home immediately caught my eye. I was really confused as to why an article about my home state would be in the New York Times. Turns out, the article was about designing homes to accommodate the needs of the elderly while remaining affordable as well as fashionable. Both houses that were featured in the article were extremely glamorous and impressive.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Times Log Week 3
Wednesday: I was very surprised to learn in today's Times that president Obama has decided to send more troops to Afganistan. This definitely presents a problem because Mr. Obama has also promised to bring home troops from Iraq. It seems that as one problem might be improving, the other is taking a turn for the worst. After denouncing the war in Afganistan for so long I wonder what made Mr. Obama change his mind to send more troops. While some can say that perhaps that situation has to get better before it gets worse, I would argue how much worse can it actually get?
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Times Log Week 3
Tuesday: Now that president Obama is finally signing the much anticipated stimulus bill, we're bound to see even more articles about it in the paper. Indeed, how that money will be distributed throughout the country is now at the forefront of everyone's minds. I was especially interested in the article about the head of the Education Department will distribute the money. I wonder how this will affect the school in NH and UNH specifically. I was also extremely interested in the article about the arson suspect in Australia. Not only is this man being held for the suspicion of setting deadly fires, but he also possessed child pornography. The fires he is said to have started killed at least 10 people and ruined 200 homes. Within hours of his arrest threats on Facebook were already sprouting up in mass. However, these groups were quickly shut down by Facebook as well as the police. Interested to see how that story plays out.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Times Log Week 3
Monday: I was very interested in the technology based stories today. I found the story about librarians adapting to use the Internet to be a neat sign of the times. It's good that librarians aren't just being fired, but are embracing the Internet and incorporating it into their professions. Also, I can't believe that smartphones are being brought into the classroom by teachers. The thought of using my phone to do schoolwork is extremely strange to me. I definitely think the issue of technology, phones specifically, in school needs to be addressed because it's something that is not going away. At the same time, I'm not sure if this will cause more trouble than it's worth. Maybe we should just stick with good old fashioned computers for now.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Philly: Your Friendly Neighborhood Dining Hall
If you walked into Philbrook Dining Hall this past weekend, odds are you saw the pink, red and white decorations and savored some chocolate kisses or candy hearts, without a second thought as to all the work that went into making that happen.
Although a trivial holiday, the staff at Philly went all out to celebrate the day dedicated to lovebirds. As with any holiday, decorations were put up, special food was prepared, the music was themed, and the staff even dressed up for the event, most sporting the color red.
“We want it to be special and show the students that it’s not just like every other day,” says assistant manager of Philbrook, Beverly Nemetz.
While all three of the dining halls on campus celebrate holidays in a similar fashion, Philbrook sets itself apart by maintaining a homey atmosphere. Nemetz, who worked at the campus Dairy Bar for three years, attributes this ambiance to the varied selection of rooms at Philly. No matter how busy it gets you can always find a seat, says Nemetz. Which is more than any student can say about eating at HoCo during peak lunch hours.
However, the variety at Philbrook doesn’t stop at the rooms. The assortment of food provides an impressive range of options as well. Not only does the menu vary from day to day, but the food gets switched out a scheduled three times a day! The menu items at Philbrook undergo a weekly rotation to mix it up and keep things interesting for the students. One thing most students might not know about their friendly neighborhood dining hall is that all the food is cooked daily.
The cooks do what is called “batch cooking,” which is basically the process of making food at intervals so none of it gets cold. For example, based on the flow of students coming through the door, the chefs adjust by preparing more or less food. That way the food remains fresh for longer.
Philly is also known for the hilarious napkin notes located on the right before exiting the dining hall. According to Nemetz, all the napkin notes that are received get answered, whether they are pleasant or not. While a fair share of the napkin notes are negative, Nemetz was happy to report that most of them are complimentary and appreciative.
With all of the meal changes, dish washing, container refilling, and cleaning that must be done, Philly has to have a stocked staff. In addition to the forty odd regular or “adult” employees that work at the dining hall, about one hundred and twenty students make up a hefty work force.
At any given time there are about twenty two people on the floor, working where students can see them and another thirty doing backstage work such as dishes, cleaning, or prepping.
A new addition to Philbrook is the nutrition table. Complete with a computer, this table offers brochures and packets with nutritional information about every item available at Philbrook. For those worried about allergies, calories and carbs, or those who are simply curious about the nutritional value of a specific dish, this table is stocked with plenty of data to sift through. The nutrition table is located right in front of the turntables of Philbrook’s entrance.
If those aren’t enough reasons to pay a visit to Philly, the dining hall has recently integrated new ideas to satisfy the students of UNH. Beginning this week, Philly is offering make-your-own crepes from 4:30-7 every Monday and Wednesday nights. Also, fresh fruit smoothies will be available at the same time on Tuesday and Thursday nights.
Nemetz, along with the rest of the Philbrook staff, are constantly looking for ways to better the service at Philbrook and appreciate any feedback they can get from students. When asked what the student population could do to make their jobs easier, Nemetz said to just be patient.
So, next time you’re in Philbrook take the time to listen to the music, appreciate the plasma TVs and thank the staff members you see. It takes a lot of work to keep 11,000 plus stomachs full and Philly is up to the challenge.
Although a trivial holiday, the staff at Philly went all out to celebrate the day dedicated to lovebirds. As with any holiday, decorations were put up, special food was prepared, the music was themed, and the staff even dressed up for the event, most sporting the color red.
“We want it to be special and show the students that it’s not just like every other day,” says assistant manager of Philbrook, Beverly Nemetz.
While all three of the dining halls on campus celebrate holidays in a similar fashion, Philbrook sets itself apart by maintaining a homey atmosphere. Nemetz, who worked at the campus Dairy Bar for three years, attributes this ambiance to the varied selection of rooms at Philly. No matter how busy it gets you can always find a seat, says Nemetz. Which is more than any student can say about eating at HoCo during peak lunch hours.
However, the variety at Philbrook doesn’t stop at the rooms. The assortment of food provides an impressive range of options as well. Not only does the menu vary from day to day, but the food gets switched out a scheduled three times a day! The menu items at Philbrook undergo a weekly rotation to mix it up and keep things interesting for the students. One thing most students might not know about their friendly neighborhood dining hall is that all the food is cooked daily.
The cooks do what is called “batch cooking,” which is basically the process of making food at intervals so none of it gets cold. For example, based on the flow of students coming through the door, the chefs adjust by preparing more or less food. That way the food remains fresh for longer.
Philly is also known for the hilarious napkin notes located on the right before exiting the dining hall. According to Nemetz, all the napkin notes that are received get answered, whether they are pleasant or not. While a fair share of the napkin notes are negative, Nemetz was happy to report that most of them are complimentary and appreciative.
With all of the meal changes, dish washing, container refilling, and cleaning that must be done, Philly has to have a stocked staff. In addition to the forty odd regular or “adult” employees that work at the dining hall, about one hundred and twenty students make up a hefty work force.
At any given time there are about twenty two people on the floor, working where students can see them and another thirty doing backstage work such as dishes, cleaning, or prepping.
A new addition to Philbrook is the nutrition table. Complete with a computer, this table offers brochures and packets with nutritional information about every item available at Philbrook. For those worried about allergies, calories and carbs, or those who are simply curious about the nutritional value of a specific dish, this table is stocked with plenty of data to sift through. The nutrition table is located right in front of the turntables of Philbrook’s entrance.
If those aren’t enough reasons to pay a visit to Philly, the dining hall has recently integrated new ideas to satisfy the students of UNH. Beginning this week, Philly is offering make-your-own crepes from 4:30-7 every Monday and Wednesday nights. Also, fresh fruit smoothies will be available at the same time on Tuesday and Thursday nights.
Nemetz, along with the rest of the Philbrook staff, are constantly looking for ways to better the service at Philbrook and appreciate any feedback they can get from students. When asked what the student population could do to make their jobs easier, Nemetz said to just be patient.
So, next time you’re in Philbrook take the time to listen to the music, appreciate the plasma TVs and thank the staff members you see. It takes a lot of work to keep 11,000 plus stomachs full and Philly is up to the challenge.
Times Log Week 2
Friday: I really liked the Times today. I found a bunch of articles I was interested in. For instance, there was a follow up article regarding the horrifying accident in which Guido Carabajo's body was dragged 20 miles under a car after he'd been walking home from celebrating his 26th birthday. Also, the story about the plane that crashed into a house, killing 49 people in Buffalo was outrageous. An article about the potential cure for the common cold was caught my attention as well. Although the research is promising, the cost of developing a new drug amounts to a startling $700 million, keeping such a cure off the shelves for a while.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Times Log Week 2
Thursday: Recently there has been a ton of buzz surrounding the unbelievable story about the octuplets that were born. This peculiar case was briefly brought up in my Making Babies class so I was interested to read about it in the Times today. This article; however, wasn't solely about Nadya Suleman's octuplets, rather the negative effects such multiple births have on the medical industry and economy. For example, multiple births can result in low birth weights, long term disabilities, and thousands of dollars worth of medical care. I also found the story about a driver who towed a body under his car for 20 miles without noticing. The story was absolutely unbelievable.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Times Log Week 2
Wednesday: Nothing really grabbed my interest in the Times today. I can't believe the whole peanut ordeal is still going on. For example, there was an article explaining that a peanut plant in Texas was closed. Makes me question the sanitariness of the peanut products being sold around campus and in the dining halls. While peanut butter was absent from the dining halls for a brief period, it returned rather quickly. Which leaves me wondering: do I dare eat the peanut butter?
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Times Log Week 2
Tuesday: I was pretty disapointed with the Times today. The front page stories were the same generic headlines as usual. A story on Obama and his plan for US economics, a story on the Taliban, a story on the Iraqi elections and so on and so forth. However, once I got past the front page, I found some stories that interested me. For example, I was shocked to learn that one of Australia's deadly fires was set by an arsonist! Also, I was horrified to learn about the suicide bombing that killed 28 people in Sri Lanka along with the suicide bombing in Iraq that killed four Americans. Although it's somewhat sad that I have to pick up a paper to learn these things, I'm glad I don't witness them and that they don't necessarily effect me personally, as selfish as that is to admit.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Times Log
Monday: I really liked the Times today. Several articles grabbed my attention due to catchy headlines and intriguing photos. For instance, the picture of the fire devastation in Australia drew me into the article. Also, the headlines "Effort to Track Sex Offenders Draws Resistance From States," "Amazon Plane Crash Kills 24; 4 Swim to Safety From Wreck," and "Iraqis Say U.S. Patrol Killed Girl, 8, in Crowd" all commanded my attention. Finally, the "Send R.O.T.C. Back to School" article particularly piqued my interest because my roommate used to do R.O.T.C.
Quick thinking saves the day (not to mention a life)
Janet Paradiso barely had time to think before she rammed her police cruiser into Francois Truffaut’s 1987 Cadillac, forcing it off the train tracks thirty seconds before a train streaked by Monday morning. Truffaut was found unconscious in his car, with the engine still running on the tracks by 17-year-old James Leboke.
After pounding on the window of the locked car with no response, Leboke ran the 100 yards to the nearest police station. Thankfully, Paradiso, the chief of police of Old Orchard Beach, ME was merely a mile away from the scene and got there just in time to hear the train’s whistle.
“I knew there was no time. I had to do something.” said Paradiso.
Other than some amnesia, Truffaut suffered minor injuries from his narrow escape from death. “I don’t remember anything,” claimed the 80-year-old diabetic from his hospital bed at Southern Maine Medical Center.
Truffaunt had been vacationing to Old Orchard Beach since he was a child. According to the police report, Truffaut might have gone into insulin shock just as he reached the railroad crossing.
Leboke had just been walking the four miles to his work when he saw what looked like a stranded vehicle on the tracks and acted instinctively.
“I never thought about it. I just knew I couldn’t let that man get crushed by a train.” He later explained to police.
Thanks to Captain Paradiso and Leboke’s quick thinking, Truffaut has the luxury of being able to vacation to Old Orchard Beach, ME again in the future.
After pounding on the window of the locked car with no response, Leboke ran the 100 yards to the nearest police station. Thankfully, Paradiso, the chief of police of Old Orchard Beach, ME was merely a mile away from the scene and got there just in time to hear the train’s whistle.
“I knew there was no time. I had to do something.” said Paradiso.
Other than some amnesia, Truffaut suffered minor injuries from his narrow escape from death. “I don’t remember anything,” claimed the 80-year-old diabetic from his hospital bed at Southern Maine Medical Center.
Truffaunt had been vacationing to Old Orchard Beach since he was a child. According to the police report, Truffaut might have gone into insulin shock just as he reached the railroad crossing.
Leboke had just been walking the four miles to his work when he saw what looked like a stranded vehicle on the tracks and acted instinctively.
“I never thought about it. I just knew I couldn’t let that man get crushed by a train.” He later explained to police.
Thanks to Captain Paradiso and Leboke’s quick thinking, Truffaut has the luxury of being able to vacation to Old Orchard Beach, ME again in the future.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Dirty Talk at UNH
If the UNH students that attended the debate on pornography between feminist author Susan Cole and feminist porn star Nina Hartley showed up expecting a catfight, they certainly didn’t get what they wanted. Upon taking the stage, Cole set things straight by swearing that all she wanted was an honest, civil conversation. Indeed, this is definitely what transpired Wednesday night in the Granite State Room of the MUB.
Although the two women disagreed on a couple of issues, it was surprising how much they had in common.
“We are both wearing Tiffany’s jewelry,” Cole discovered as they took the stage together in front of a packed audience. Students started lining up for the much anticipated debate an hour before the doors opened and many kids had to be turned away.
Apart from the jewelry, both women had similar goals in mind for women. Both being feminists, they commented on the significant progress the feminist movement has made since it began in the 1970s. After all, society has come a long way since the days when the use of birth control was considered a crime. Furthermore, both women want to see sexuality more greatly portrayed in society. For instance, both Cole and Hartley would like gay sexuality more widely seen and presented to the public.
Cole started off the evening’s festivities by posing an array of questions for Hartley and explaining her concerns with the pornography industry. She was particularly insistent about the use of pain and violence in porn. Even though she admits that not all porn demonstrates forcefulness and dominance, she would like to see the violence component completely removed from the industry.
“An orgasm shouldn’t come at the expense of bruises,” Cole said.
Cole would also like to see equality eroticized, as well as older people and condom use.
The main question Cole posed to Hartley questioned Hartley’s typicality in the pornography industry. To this, Hartley confirmed that she is not typical to the industry, because she has a college education, is bisexual, and is older than the average porn star, among other reasons.
Hartley went on to address Cole’s other questions and make points of her own. In response to Cole’s complaint regarding the lack of condom use in porn, Hartley explained that overuse of condoms causes abrasions in the vagina, making the woman more susceptible to sexually transmitted diseases.
Hartley also commented on the new developments in the pornography industry. For instance, a health clinic is provided for the participants, which tests them for HIV and other STDs weekly. In addition to medical aid, peer counseling and referrals to self help clinics are now offered for anyone in need of such.
While Hartley repeatedly claimed to be kinky and very much into dirty, hot sex, she did offer one very serious statement to her college audience: “Don’t have sex when you’re drunk.”
Hartley insisted that sex is already complicated enough without adding a factor that fogs one’s rationality and decision making abilities.
The debate between Cole and Hartley offered eye opening perspectives, outspoken opinions, civil argumentation, valuable advice and, at times, some witty humor. While the mediators of the debate, two hall directors from various dorms at UNH, warned the audience that some promiscuous topics were going to be touched upon, the entire audience was shocked as Cole and Hartley didn’t hesitate to discuss masturbation, sexual positions, and bisexuality.
While the debate itself remained calm and professional, things definitely heated up once the reigns were handed to the audience. Several members of the audience asked a variety of rude, surprising, and downright absurd questions. Still, the debaters didn’t seem shaken by these questions and offered thoughtful answers as best they could.
One of the more outrageous questions was directed at Cole from a male student. He wondered that since she claimed to be ok with masturbation, yet against porn, would she be against him if he masturbated to porn.
After wondering aloud if this young man had even been listening for the past hour, Cole summed up her thoughts by saying she still remains curious how a sexual visual aid or even just a random thought can cause a man to have an erection.
“If an erection is speech I wanna know what it’s saying,” Cole concluded.
Although the two women disagreed on a couple of issues, it was surprising how much they had in common.
“We are both wearing Tiffany’s jewelry,” Cole discovered as they took the stage together in front of a packed audience. Students started lining up for the much anticipated debate an hour before the doors opened and many kids had to be turned away.
Apart from the jewelry, both women had similar goals in mind for women. Both being feminists, they commented on the significant progress the feminist movement has made since it began in the 1970s. After all, society has come a long way since the days when the use of birth control was considered a crime. Furthermore, both women want to see sexuality more greatly portrayed in society. For instance, both Cole and Hartley would like gay sexuality more widely seen and presented to the public.
Cole started off the evening’s festivities by posing an array of questions for Hartley and explaining her concerns with the pornography industry. She was particularly insistent about the use of pain and violence in porn. Even though she admits that not all porn demonstrates forcefulness and dominance, she would like to see the violence component completely removed from the industry.
“An orgasm shouldn’t come at the expense of bruises,” Cole said.
Cole would also like to see equality eroticized, as well as older people and condom use.
The main question Cole posed to Hartley questioned Hartley’s typicality in the pornography industry. To this, Hartley confirmed that she is not typical to the industry, because she has a college education, is bisexual, and is older than the average porn star, among other reasons.
Hartley went on to address Cole’s other questions and make points of her own. In response to Cole’s complaint regarding the lack of condom use in porn, Hartley explained that overuse of condoms causes abrasions in the vagina, making the woman more susceptible to sexually transmitted diseases.
Hartley also commented on the new developments in the pornography industry. For instance, a health clinic is provided for the participants, which tests them for HIV and other STDs weekly. In addition to medical aid, peer counseling and referrals to self help clinics are now offered for anyone in need of such.
While Hartley repeatedly claimed to be kinky and very much into dirty, hot sex, she did offer one very serious statement to her college audience: “Don’t have sex when you’re drunk.”
Hartley insisted that sex is already complicated enough without adding a factor that fogs one’s rationality and decision making abilities.
The debate between Cole and Hartley offered eye opening perspectives, outspoken opinions, civil argumentation, valuable advice and, at times, some witty humor. While the mediators of the debate, two hall directors from various dorms at UNH, warned the audience that some promiscuous topics were going to be touched upon, the entire audience was shocked as Cole and Hartley didn’t hesitate to discuss masturbation, sexual positions, and bisexuality.
While the debate itself remained calm and professional, things definitely heated up once the reigns were handed to the audience. Several members of the audience asked a variety of rude, surprising, and downright absurd questions. Still, the debaters didn’t seem shaken by these questions and offered thoughtful answers as best they could.
One of the more outrageous questions was directed at Cole from a male student. He wondered that since she claimed to be ok with masturbation, yet against porn, would she be against him if he masturbated to porn.
After wondering aloud if this young man had even been listening for the past hour, Cole summed up her thoughts by saying she still remains curious how a sexual visual aid or even just a random thought can cause a man to have an erection.
“If an erection is speech I wanna know what it’s saying,” Cole concluded.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Friday: Today's Times really didn't do much for me. While flipping through, most of the articles I saw were the usual critiques of President Obama's plans for the future, the worsening economy and other political topics I'm not particularly interested in. Of course, the ongoing saga of Michael Phelp's drug photo continues to deliver a buzz. I really feel bad for the guy, one wrong move and BAM- suspended for 3 months. I guess that's the price he pays for being a glorified Olympian.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Thursday: The first thing I noticed about the Times today was the picture of comedian and actor Will Ferrell. I immediately read the article describing Ferrell's premiere on Broadway impersonating George W. Bush in "You're Welcome America. A Final Night with George W. Bush." I had no idea that Ferrell had made the jump from screen to stage so now I'm very interested to see how this play is received by the public. So far, it's been extremely popular, selling out even the preview showings. I also noticed a follow up article about the death of Nazi doctor, Aribert Heim. This article simply presented more information that the man known as Dr. Death during the Holocaust died in Egypt in 1992.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Wednesday: I really enjoyed two specific articles in today's Times and ironically enough they are both somewhat related. The first was about the search for the most wanted Nazi doctor of the Holocaust. Details about his whereabouts weren't discovered until after his death in Egypt, where he'd been living for a while under a false name. The second article I liked explained that the Vatican was forcing a Bishop to take back the statements he had made about denying the Holocaust. Indeed, this Bishop denied the existence of gas chambers! The Vatican threatened to fire him if he didn't take back what he'd said, yet there was no response from the Bishop.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Tuesday: The Times really didn't catch my attention at all today. Most of the stories were about politicians and other wordly figures I've never heard of. However, I found the article about Obama showing favoritism to ex journalists quite interesting. I had no idea that a signifigant number of journalists from prominent organizations had recently gained government jobs.
Monday: A couple of stories caught my eye in the Times today. Perhaps this is because all of them involved disater in some way. For instance, there was a story on drug caravans crossing the border from Mexico into the US, a story on a fire killing five people in China, and a horrifying story on a gasoline explosion in Africa. The gasoline story was especially gruesome due to the heartwrenching picture of a kid suffering from severe burns as a result of the burning gasoline. The picture just draws you in, forcing you to read the piece.
Angela Davis on just how far we haven't come
The variety of faces peering up at Angela Davis as she takes the stage Thursday morning in the Strafford Room of the Memorial Union Building attests to how far society has come since she became a political and social activist in the 1970s. Members of the packed audience range in gender, age, ethnicity, and, most notably, race. After a twenty-one year stint, Davis returns to the University of New Hampshire to deliver the annual MLK Commemorative Address. Entitled Education or Incarceration: The Future of Democracy, her speech focuses on the abolition of the prison system in the United States and touches on other contemporary racial issues. The main topic of today is pinpointing exactly how far the nation has come with the ever present controversy of race.
In response to this question, Davis answers in a way a politician might by rewording the question to fit her answer.
“I would rephrase the question to: how far have we come to make a society where social justice prevails … We’ve come a long way and haven’t come far at all.”
This contradictory response set the tone for the remainder of the conversation. While Davis acknowledges the changes that have transpired over the past couple of decades, she is quick to remind us that there is still much to be done.
Growing up in Alabama during the 60s, Davis is no stranger to racism. She recalls returning to her childhood city as an adult and being surprised by all of the places she’d never seen before due to the segregation of the past. While separate water fountains, restaurants, and schools have long since disappeared, Davis now awaits economic equality.
Prison abolishment remains her primary campaign. Not only has Davis done time behind bars herself, but she also appeared on the FBI’s 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List in 1970, making her somewhat of an authority on the subject. Davis argues that “to put people in prison means we are willing to accept the horrors of the world.” In other words, rather than figuring out what drives people to do such horrible things, it’s easier to toss them in jail. Davis explained that there are more people behind bars in the United States than ever, a statistic that doesn’t reflect highly upon the nation that prides itself on its institution of democracy.
Yet, how should the United States deal with crime if prisons are abolished? How are criminals to be punished? To this, Davis simply asks the audience to consider how many people that have committed crimes are behind bars versus those who are not.
“Who are the ones that end up going to prison?” she questions. “The ones who are most subject to surveillance.”
Although Davis doesn’t supply a completed game plan with strategies to abolish prisons, she does offer ways to lessen the need for them. The most noteworthy of which being education. Davis believes that if the government puts more funds towards education and less to the prison industry, there will be a fewer criminals. After all, according to Davis, most criminals become educated while doing time. Had these individuals possessed such knowledge earlier in their lives, they wouldn’t find themselves caught in the black hole of the United States legal system now.
After observing the changes that have encompassed the nation during her lifetime, including the recent election of the first African American president, Barrack Hussein Obama, Davis believes anything can be accomplished with organizational movement.
“This is the perfect time for organizational movement,” she proclaims. “Think of yourself as an activist wherever you are.”
Davis went on to declare that she is most inspired by the work that young people do. As the times continue changing, she believes elders have just as much to learn from youths as youths do from elders. Although she is always hesitant to give advice, Davis left the audience with two key statements. As she tells her students at the University of California Santa Cruz, “always question that which has never been interrogated.” Finally, Davis states that young people need “not be afraid to speak out, to be bold, creative, and imaginative, and take risks.” Indeed, there’s no telling how far the nation will be in a few short years if the younger generations of America heed this valuable advice.
In response to this question, Davis answers in a way a politician might by rewording the question to fit her answer.
“I would rephrase the question to: how far have we come to make a society where social justice prevails … We’ve come a long way and haven’t come far at all.”
This contradictory response set the tone for the remainder of the conversation. While Davis acknowledges the changes that have transpired over the past couple of decades, she is quick to remind us that there is still much to be done.
Growing up in Alabama during the 60s, Davis is no stranger to racism. She recalls returning to her childhood city as an adult and being surprised by all of the places she’d never seen before due to the segregation of the past. While separate water fountains, restaurants, and schools have long since disappeared, Davis now awaits economic equality.
Prison abolishment remains her primary campaign. Not only has Davis done time behind bars herself, but she also appeared on the FBI’s 10 Most Wanted Fugitives List in 1970, making her somewhat of an authority on the subject. Davis argues that “to put people in prison means we are willing to accept the horrors of the world.” In other words, rather than figuring out what drives people to do such horrible things, it’s easier to toss them in jail. Davis explained that there are more people behind bars in the United States than ever, a statistic that doesn’t reflect highly upon the nation that prides itself on its institution of democracy.
Yet, how should the United States deal with crime if prisons are abolished? How are criminals to be punished? To this, Davis simply asks the audience to consider how many people that have committed crimes are behind bars versus those who are not.
“Who are the ones that end up going to prison?” she questions. “The ones who are most subject to surveillance.”
Although Davis doesn’t supply a completed game plan with strategies to abolish prisons, she does offer ways to lessen the need for them. The most noteworthy of which being education. Davis believes that if the government puts more funds towards education and less to the prison industry, there will be a fewer criminals. After all, according to Davis, most criminals become educated while doing time. Had these individuals possessed such knowledge earlier in their lives, they wouldn’t find themselves caught in the black hole of the United States legal system now.
After observing the changes that have encompassed the nation during her lifetime, including the recent election of the first African American president, Barrack Hussein Obama, Davis believes anything can be accomplished with organizational movement.
“This is the perfect time for organizational movement,” she proclaims. “Think of yourself as an activist wherever you are.”
Davis went on to declare that she is most inspired by the work that young people do. As the times continue changing, she believes elders have just as much to learn from youths as youths do from elders. Although she is always hesitant to give advice, Davis left the audience with two key statements. As she tells her students at the University of California Santa Cruz, “always question that which has never been interrogated.” Finally, Davis states that young people need “not be afraid to speak out, to be bold, creative, and imaginative, and take risks.” Indeed, there’s no telling how far the nation will be in a few short years if the younger generations of America heed this valuable advice.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Careless driving puts two young girls in hospital
Seventeen year old Jamie Peterson was able to crawl out of his car on his own after he swerved and flipped off Mile High Rd in Belmont Massachusetts late Monday night.
The other passengers, two young females whose names have not yet been released, had to be pulled from the wreckage using the jaws of life. The girls were transported to Memorial Hospital in Belmont. One was in stable condition, while the other was airlifted to Mass. General Hospital in Boston.
Tom Carroll Jr. was the first on the scene. The seventeen year old had been driving behind Perterson’s white Mustang when he saw it speed ahead around a bend. Upon turning the corner, he saw the car on its roof.
“I thought the worst.” He said. “They were flying. It’s hard to see kids your age in something like this.”
Josie M. Crandall, a resident of Mile High Rd, reported seeing the accident outside her window around 9 pm and immediately notified the police.
“I’ve never seen a car going so fast on this road. It’s a dirt road, and it’s really easy to lose control,” said Crandall.
This road was the site of a fatal car accident nearly a decade ago in which two people were killed. Although some might attribute these accidents to the lack of streetlights on the dirt road, such doesn’t appear to be the case for young Peterson.
Upon reaching the upturned car, Carroll told police that he saw at least three empty Budweiser cans on the ground.
“You realize when you see it what could happen, especially on this road.” He said.
The other passengers, two young females whose names have not yet been released, had to be pulled from the wreckage using the jaws of life. The girls were transported to Memorial Hospital in Belmont. One was in stable condition, while the other was airlifted to Mass. General Hospital in Boston.
Tom Carroll Jr. was the first on the scene. The seventeen year old had been driving behind Perterson’s white Mustang when he saw it speed ahead around a bend. Upon turning the corner, he saw the car on its roof.
“I thought the worst.” He said. “They were flying. It’s hard to see kids your age in something like this.”
Josie M. Crandall, a resident of Mile High Rd, reported seeing the accident outside her window around 9 pm and immediately notified the police.
“I’ve never seen a car going so fast on this road. It’s a dirt road, and it’s really easy to lose control,” said Crandall.
This road was the site of a fatal car accident nearly a decade ago in which two people were killed. Although some might attribute these accidents to the lack of streetlights on the dirt road, such doesn’t appear to be the case for young Peterson.
Upon reaching the upturned car, Carroll told police that he saw at least three empty Budweiser cans on the ground.
“You realize when you see it what could happen, especially on this road.” He said.
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