12 December 2007
YEEEEEE HAAWWWW
MY RADIOHEAD BOX SET OF 'IN RAINBOWS' ARRIVED! I'M SO EXCITED I CAN HARDLY WRITE A COHERENT THOUGHT. AND CAPS LOCK WILL BE DOWN FOR THE REMAINDER OF THE EVENING.
06 December 2007
Ellen and Snoop - Together at Last
So, I don't have TV, but oftentimes I do find myself watching it from time to time. I do go to other people's houses, you know. When I eat dinner with my parents, they like to watch the 'Ellen' show while they eat. Usually, this is no big deal. I just try to ignore it until the news comes on. But on Tuesday afternoon, something happened that I did not expect - Snoop Dogg performed.
On the 'Ellen' show.
And no, he wasn't covering a James Taylor tune; he was singing some new song of his to a group of middle-aged, cheezily-dancing women. At one point he asked, 'Where all the single ladies at?' I think the studio audience was expecting a free Wii or something, because some of them actually replied.
I can't believe how ridiculous TV has become, when people like my mom see Snoop and don't recoil in fear. Not only that, but they seemed to be enjoying themselves. Does this mean I don't like Snoop anymore? I mean, I kind of don't, but I can't forget 'Doggystyle' and the impact it had on my life. Did they?
I look forward to next week's show when Rage Against the Machine performs.
On the 'Ellen' show.
And no, he wasn't covering a James Taylor tune; he was singing some new song of his to a group of middle-aged, cheezily-dancing women. At one point he asked, 'Where all the single ladies at?' I think the studio audience was expecting a free Wii or something, because some of them actually replied.
I can't believe how ridiculous TV has become, when people like my mom see Snoop and don't recoil in fear. Not only that, but they seemed to be enjoying themselves. Does this mean I don't like Snoop anymore? I mean, I kind of don't, but I can't forget 'Doggystyle' and the impact it had on my life. Did they?
I look forward to next week's show when Rage Against the Machine performs.
05 December 2007
AND THEN WE'RE GONNA FIX HEALTHCARE....BYAH!!!
I can't wait for Hillary to get excited about being the Democratic front-runner and give everyone a good old Howard Deanesque BYAAHH!! and lose popularity. Not that I have anything against her or necessarily want her to lose the nomination, but I would just like to see her get all pumped up about something. Really, she doesn't have to lose popularity. Just to see her even mockingly quote Mr. Dean would really be something to laugh about. Think about it.
02 December 2007
Seven Up
Wow. So this series 'Seven Up' is amazing. If you haven't heard of it, you're missing out. It's like a reality show mixed with a documentary mixed with a sociology class. I'm giving it the official 'Sample Blog Seal of Approval.' Sure, 710 minutes takes a while to watch, but MAN. Alright, that's it for this post. I have to go to sleep.
30 November 2007
Writers' Strike Out
It may not be a surprise to hear that I don't give a crap about the Hollywood writers' strike. They're already getting paid too much to create an enormous amount of crap and now they are paying homeless people to stand in the picket lines for them. If they're looking for my sympathy, they need to change their methods.
People are going to watch TV regardless of what's on. If writers strike, that just means more shitty reality shows to numb and dumb the masses will be created by producers who already save money by making the reality shows in the first place.
I understand that Hollywood producers get paid a lot of money, probably more than they deserve. But they're still going to get paid a ridiculous amount of money even after the strike. Shit, they're still getting paid a ridiculous amount of money during the strike!
Hollywood writers - your profession is shallow and pointless. You should be happy to receive pay at all. And I know, insurance is expensive on a Corvette, but we all have to make sacrifices.
It would be nice if the American public went on strike from TV, to show the writers and executives where the real power lies. Everyone is forgetting that the consumer is the most important aspect of the entertainment world. Unfortunately, TV is just entertaining enough to prevent everyone from turning their sets off.
If you have cable, I urge you to not pay your bill any longer. You don't need TV; TV needs you. I've been boob-tube free for about seven years, and it's one of the best things I've ever done for my life. I guarantee that after a year or so you won't need to know - and more importantly you won't care - what happens on Days of Our Lives. You can live the days of your own life instead.
People are going to watch TV regardless of what's on. If writers strike, that just means more shitty reality shows to numb and dumb the masses will be created by producers who already save money by making the reality shows in the first place.
I understand that Hollywood producers get paid a lot of money, probably more than they deserve. But they're still going to get paid a ridiculous amount of money even after the strike. Shit, they're still getting paid a ridiculous amount of money during the strike!
Hollywood writers - your profession is shallow and pointless. You should be happy to receive pay at all. And I know, insurance is expensive on a Corvette, but we all have to make sacrifices.
It would be nice if the American public went on strike from TV, to show the writers and executives where the real power lies. Everyone is forgetting that the consumer is the most important aspect of the entertainment world. Unfortunately, TV is just entertaining enough to prevent everyone from turning their sets off.
If you have cable, I urge you to not pay your bill any longer. You don't need TV; TV needs you. I've been boob-tube free for about seven years, and it's one of the best things I've ever done for my life. I guarantee that after a year or so you won't need to know - and more importantly you won't care - what happens on Days of Our Lives. You can live the days of your own life instead.
27 November 2007
College Is All Business
I have quite effectively lost all faith in the college system. It has become yet another capitalistic enterprise, putting more emphasis on business affairs than education. Aside from the price of tuition, which escalates every year no matter how many more students attend than the previous year, the book store, the coffee shop and the cafeteria at Utica College have all gone to the highest bidder - big corporations.
Personally, the interest of this college in turning profits has caused me much grief. What I am about to say is just about the dumbest thing I've ever had to go through. I have to re-take classes I took at MVCC because I did not obtain an Associates Degree from there. Although I got an A in English 102 at MV, the fact that I didn't get a degree there means I have to take it again here. Why? Because it costs money to take a class, and this is some retarded loophole that was created in order to squeeze another semester's worth of tuition out of transfer students. Now they're telling me that I have to take another math course, because the one I took at MV (pre-calculus) transfers over as an elective. Again, if I had an Associates from MV, this would not be a problem. I only transferred to UC because they told me these credits would all be transferred. I don't think I'm alone on this issue.
Adjunct professors make up about half of the professors at UC. Hiring two part-time employees instead of one full-time employee saves money by paying two people less money than one, and not having to offer benefits. But where does all that saved money go? I thought that Romano Hall was paid for by a donation from Mr. Romano. How about hiring an adjunct president? Surely that would save a bundle. Maybe paying the president and administration less would be a good start to saving even more!
At this point, the only thing keeping me at UC is a relatively cheap trip to Ireland. So what do I have to look forward to when I return? Obtaining a degree seems to me more trouble than it's worth. I feel I've learned what I need, and would rather spend my time reading and learning what I want, not going through English 102 again.
Handing in my application to this decrepit institute is now my biggest regret. Utica National Insurance even looks better than this dump, and that place is the reason why I went back to college. At least insurance companies are transparent about why they exist - for profit. Hiding behind the illusion of education to turn bigger and bigger profits anually is dishonest and disgusting. I've learned more from books - free books, not Barnes & Noble textbooks - than in a year and a half at UC.
It will be interesting to see what happens upon my return from Ireland. Will I quit? Maybe. I think the administration would be pleased with that, so I might stay out of spite. Then again, not paying them tuition would make me feel better. Stay tuned for what happens next, as I'm sure I'll be pissed off - and that always makes my blogs more interesting.
Personally, the interest of this college in turning profits has caused me much grief. What I am about to say is just about the dumbest thing I've ever had to go through. I have to re-take classes I took at MVCC because I did not obtain an Associates Degree from there. Although I got an A in English 102 at MV, the fact that I didn't get a degree there means I have to take it again here. Why? Because it costs money to take a class, and this is some retarded loophole that was created in order to squeeze another semester's worth of tuition out of transfer students. Now they're telling me that I have to take another math course, because the one I took at MV (pre-calculus) transfers over as an elective. Again, if I had an Associates from MV, this would not be a problem. I only transferred to UC because they told me these credits would all be transferred. I don't think I'm alone on this issue.
Adjunct professors make up about half of the professors at UC. Hiring two part-time employees instead of one full-time employee saves money by paying two people less money than one, and not having to offer benefits. But where does all that saved money go? I thought that Romano Hall was paid for by a donation from Mr. Romano. How about hiring an adjunct president? Surely that would save a bundle. Maybe paying the president and administration less would be a good start to saving even more!
At this point, the only thing keeping me at UC is a relatively cheap trip to Ireland. So what do I have to look forward to when I return? Obtaining a degree seems to me more trouble than it's worth. I feel I've learned what I need, and would rather spend my time reading and learning what I want, not going through English 102 again.
Handing in my application to this decrepit institute is now my biggest regret. Utica National Insurance even looks better than this dump, and that place is the reason why I went back to college. At least insurance companies are transparent about why they exist - for profit. Hiding behind the illusion of education to turn bigger and bigger profits anually is dishonest and disgusting. I've learned more from books - free books, not Barnes & Noble textbooks - than in a year and a half at UC.
It will be interesting to see what happens upon my return from Ireland. Will I quit? Maybe. I think the administration would be pleased with that, so I might stay out of spite. Then again, not paying them tuition would make me feel better. Stay tuned for what happens next, as I'm sure I'll be pissed off - and that always makes my blogs more interesting.
19 November 2007
THE AIR CAR!!!
http://www.theaircar.com/
Something about a car running on air...why didn't they think of that sooner? I have a feeling that the assholes in charge will try to squash this, you know, doing what they usually do - making unnecessary laws so oil companies can continue to turn record profits because they pay for campaigns...
But man. Buy an air-powered car for god's sake. Gas is ridiculous, and will only get worse. We have the technology, let's do something good and trade in all our SUVs for these light, fuel-efficient, clean cars. What do you say?
Something about a car running on air...why didn't they think of that sooner? I have a feeling that the assholes in charge will try to squash this, you know, doing what they usually do - making unnecessary laws so oil companies can continue to turn record profits because they pay for campaigns...
But man. Buy an air-powered car for god's sake. Gas is ridiculous, and will only get worse. We have the technology, let's do something good and trade in all our SUVs for these light, fuel-efficient, clean cars. What do you say?
02 November 2007
I like my major!
After my sixth try, I think I finally found a major I can stick with. Maybe it was that after a year and a half, there was finally an article worth writing on this campus. I had a busy week, but it was worth it. I was lied to as a journalist, and it felt great! I exposed some minor corruption on campus. It may have put my moneys in jeopardy for my trip to Ireland, but I really don't give a fuck. If I can't get money through the Office of Student Financial Services, I'll just get it somewhere else.
So about this major, it got me all worked up. I was running all around, interviewing the head of every department and important faculty member here. My favorite part of the day was when I went into Barry White's (not the singer) office (he's actually white, and pretty lame) and tried to make an interview with him. He's like the UC accountant or some bullshit like that. His secretary told me he was busy all day and probably wouldn't be in the office. As I turned to leave, he walked in the door. I asked if I could have a minute with him, very briefly, so he could answer some of my questions.
"I would prefer not to comment," White said. "We haven't been pleased with the coverage at the Tangerine." Fair enough, but I think he was already warned about the article I was trying to write.
Some thought I went too far with the article while others thought I didn't go far enough to expose the executive director of student financial services. BUT SHE TOOK OUR PAPERS. And that's personal. To read the article I'm referring to, go to www.uctangerine.com and read 'Dude, Where's My Tangerine?' Also, read the one from the previous issue (lead story) and Keith Henry's response, called 'Tangerine Drops Ball On Story.'
The Tangerine had more hits for Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 than any other days this semester, and I have a feeling the paper is going to get better every week.
So about this major, it got me all worked up. I was running all around, interviewing the head of every department and important faculty member here. My favorite part of the day was when I went into Barry White's (not the singer) office (he's actually white, and pretty lame) and tried to make an interview with him. He's like the UC accountant or some bullshit like that. His secretary told me he was busy all day and probably wouldn't be in the office. As I turned to leave, he walked in the door. I asked if I could have a minute with him, very briefly, so he could answer some of my questions.
"I would prefer not to comment," White said. "We haven't been pleased with the coverage at the Tangerine." Fair enough, but I think he was already warned about the article I was trying to write.
Some thought I went too far with the article while others thought I didn't go far enough to expose the executive director of student financial services. BUT SHE TOOK OUR PAPERS. And that's personal. To read the article I'm referring to, go to www.uctangerine.com and read 'Dude, Where's My Tangerine?' Also, read the one from the previous issue (lead story) and Keith Henry's response, called 'Tangerine Drops Ball On Story.'
The Tangerine had more hits for Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 than any other days this semester, and I have a feeling the paper is going to get better every week.
25 October 2007
The Land of Ire
There's not much time left.
Only about five minutes.
After that, all the computers switch from 'available' to 'closed.'
And then I have to lock the doors.
Just a quick update - next semester, Marissa and I are going to Ireland. We already have our tickets, and leave Jan. 4. If you would like to send me a donation, I'm poor, and travel will have to be minimal. It's unfortunate, but at least we get to hang out in Ireland for a few months, at least. Oh, and the first week or so is a free trip to Italy, where I get three credit hours. I'm busting.
One thing that's kind of off the topic here, Premier Bush is saying shit about Cuba. I just read on my Communist propaganda blog (I'll hook you up with a link if you want) this very amusing response. Everything Bush says about the Castro regime can be said about himself. He says how the country would be better off without that oppressive government...
You know, Cuba would be a better place if we traded with them instead of tried to implement our capitalist system on them. They're too proud a people to change their ways. They lived without us for the past 30 years and will continue to do so until the US changes its mind.
I don't like the idea of Raul in power any more than the next guy, but I don't like the idea of Bush in power too.
Only about five minutes.
After that, all the computers switch from 'available' to 'closed.'
And then I have to lock the doors.
Just a quick update - next semester, Marissa and I are going to Ireland. We already have our tickets, and leave Jan. 4. If you would like to send me a donation, I'm poor, and travel will have to be minimal. It's unfortunate, but at least we get to hang out in Ireland for a few months, at least. Oh, and the first week or so is a free trip to Italy, where I get three credit hours. I'm busting.
One thing that's kind of off the topic here, Premier Bush is saying shit about Cuba. I just read on my Communist propaganda blog (I'll hook you up with a link if you want) this very amusing response. Everything Bush says about the Castro regime can be said about himself. He says how the country would be better off without that oppressive government...
You know, Cuba would be a better place if we traded with them instead of tried to implement our capitalist system on them. They're too proud a people to change their ways. They lived without us for the past 30 years and will continue to do so until the US changes its mind.
I don't like the idea of Raul in power any more than the next guy, but I don't like the idea of Bush in power too.
28 September 2007
DJ Tanner switch.
Just a note - DJ Tanner will NOT be on the airwaves Sunday night this week. The show will be on MONDAY FROM 6 - 9 P.M. THIS WEEK ONLY. Sorry for shouting, but I just wanted to get the word out. After this week, I'll go back to Sunday. You see, I'm visiting my sister and seeing her show on Sunday, so I won't be able to make it in. That's enough. I have to get to class.
19 September 2007
Sample Blog Title:
So here's the sample blog - about to be at it's finest, I'm sure. Long story short, Torte (new cat) had to go back to the Humane Society. We think there's something wrong with the house. She starting showing the same symptoms as Gato towards the end, and every time we took her out of the house, her condition improved. Last I knew, she was doing well. I'll put up pictures of the little lady later, on the bottom of this or on my Facebook page.
I don't like Facebook much, but it seems to get more hits. I'm friends with like, six people now, and I haven't even tried. I only started the damn site so I could get info. on people for my reporting class. It's not going incredible well, though. I don't think people want to answer questions about the story I'm working on because no one likes getting flipped off. Look me up if you want - I'm 'Travis Olivera' on facebook.com.
Anyway, Utica College sucks. Want proof? You can't spell 'sucks' without UC.
Hate on them all I want, they're still going to help foot the bill for my trip to Ireland for four months.
I'm going back to watching South Park. I just broke a glass - one of six that my sister gave me as a present. Tracy, if you're reading this, I'm sorry, but I was drunk. I still am now, and maybe updating my blog is a little counter-productive. I could be studying right now. (Jay slash kay. I'm just going to go back to South Park.)
And what's the deal with Frisky Dingo? Was there like, a new season I never heard of? I don't understand.
I guess what's going on is, I would like to know if anyone reads this and would like to comment. I leave it to you, fair reader...
~Travis.
I don't like Facebook much, but it seems to get more hits. I'm friends with like, six people now, and I haven't even tried. I only started the damn site so I could get info. on people for my reporting class. It's not going incredible well, though. I don't think people want to answer questions about the story I'm working on because no one likes getting flipped off. Look me up if you want - I'm 'Travis Olivera' on facebook.com.
Anyway, Utica College sucks. Want proof? You can't spell 'sucks' without UC.
Hate on them all I want, they're still going to help foot the bill for my trip to Ireland for four months.
I'm going back to watching South Park. I just broke a glass - one of six that my sister gave me as a present. Tracy, if you're reading this, I'm sorry, but I was drunk. I still am now, and maybe updating my blog is a little counter-productive. I could be studying right now. (Jay slash kay. I'm just going to go back to South Park.)
And what's the deal with Frisky Dingo? Was there like, a new season I never heard of? I don't understand.
I guess what's going on is, I would like to know if anyone reads this and would like to comment. I leave it to you, fair reader...
~Travis.
30 August 2007
DJ Tanner is back.
To those living in the Utica area, DJ Tanner (this guy) will be back on the airwaves every Sunday night from 6-9 on WPNR 90.7 FM. I'm calling the show 'DJ Tanner's Box Social,' and I plan on playing the best music on the radio, at least during that 3-hour block. Don't miss it if you know what's good for you. Oh yeah, I'm supposed to say 'The POWER of central New York' after the radio station ID. Whatever.
And also school started this week, so postings may be few and far between for a while. I hate school...on day 3.
Lastly, Marissa and I got another cat. It's Gato's sister, and I think we're going to name her Tort (spelling subject to change, of course). I don't mean sister, like how black people talk, but in the actual family relation way. Not that there's anything wrong with two black women referring to each other as 'sisters,' I'm just clarifying.
And also school started this week, so postings may be few and far between for a while. I hate school...on day 3.
Lastly, Marissa and I got another cat. It's Gato's sister, and I think we're going to name her Tort (spelling subject to change, of course). I don't mean sister, like how black people talk, but in the actual family relation way. Not that there's anything wrong with two black women referring to each other as 'sisters,' I'm just clarifying.
28 August 2007
Representative Arcuri responded!
Below are the contents of an e-mail I received from Rep. Arcuri that prove the system works! Kind of. I'd tell you what I wrote to get him to respond, but I forgot. You can probably figure it out by context clues.
August 27, 2007
Dear Mr. Olivera,
Thank you for contacting me to express your support for the impeachment of Administration officials. I appreciate that you took the time to share your thoughts with me.
There are many areas where the Administration and I disagree, and I have been outraged by the secrecy and partisanship they have employed in pursuit of their objectives. As a former District Attorney, I am deeply troubled by questions regarding the legality of the NSA warrantless surveillance program, as well as open-ended detention of enemy combatants without access to due process.
The newly-elected Congress has a critical role to play in getting to the bottom of these secret initiatives, and I am confident that the full facts of these issues will be presented and debated in a public forum. Over 100 hearings on mismanagement of the Iraq War alone have been held since the new Congress began in January. You may also be pleased to learn that I recently voted in favor of Congressman McGovern's Iraq redeployment bill, which would have begun a responsible redeployment of our troops beginning 90 days after passage. Additionally, the House and Senate Judiciary Committees and the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee have been working to shed light on dozens of other questionable Administration policies.
I assure you, I am in favor of vigorous and extensive investigations into the intelligence behind the Iraq conflict, the Administration's energy policy, domestic surveillance, and other critical issues. However, the new Congress was elected to chart a new direction for America, and I strongly believe that the lengthy, costly impeachment process would not only further divide our country, but would distract us from the goals of true reform and progress. We now have the opportunity to reverse many of the disastrous policies implemented over the past six years, and I am focused on working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to legislate positive change.
Thank you again for sharing your thoughts with me. To receive updates on my work in New York and Washington, visit my website at arcuri.house.gov to sign up for my regular e-newsletter. Please don't hesitate to contact me again if I can be of help on this or any other matter.
Sincerely,
Michael A. Arcuri
Member of Congress
He makes a good point, but it's confusing that he thinks an impeachment will further divide this country. It seems the majority of people are in favor of a 'lengthy, costly impeachment process,' but every congressman is entitled to his/her own opinion, I guess.
August 27, 2007
Dear Mr. Olivera,
Thank you for contacting me to express your support for the impeachment of Administration officials. I appreciate that you took the time to share your thoughts with me.
There are many areas where the Administration and I disagree, and I have been outraged by the secrecy and partisanship they have employed in pursuit of their objectives. As a former District Attorney, I am deeply troubled by questions regarding the legality of the NSA warrantless surveillance program, as well as open-ended detention of enemy combatants without access to due process.
The newly-elected Congress has a critical role to play in getting to the bottom of these secret initiatives, and I am confident that the full facts of these issues will be presented and debated in a public forum. Over 100 hearings on mismanagement of the Iraq War alone have been held since the new Congress began in January. You may also be pleased to learn that I recently voted in favor of Congressman McGovern's Iraq redeployment bill, which would have begun a responsible redeployment of our troops beginning 90 days after passage. Additionally, the House and Senate Judiciary Committees and the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee have been working to shed light on dozens of other questionable Administration policies.
I assure you, I am in favor of vigorous and extensive investigations into the intelligence behind the Iraq conflict, the Administration's energy policy, domestic surveillance, and other critical issues. However, the new Congress was elected to chart a new direction for America, and I strongly believe that the lengthy, costly impeachment process would not only further divide our country, but would distract us from the goals of true reform and progress. We now have the opportunity to reverse many of the disastrous policies implemented over the past six years, and I am focused on working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to legislate positive change.
Thank you again for sharing your thoughts with me. To receive updates on my work in New York and Washington, visit my website at arcuri.house.gov to sign up for my regular e-newsletter. Please don't hesitate to contact me again if I can be of help on this or any other matter.
Sincerely,
Michael A. Arcuri
Member of Congress
He makes a good point, but it's confusing that he thinks an impeachment will further divide this country. It seems the majority of people are in favor of a 'lengthy, costly impeachment process,' but every congressman is entitled to his/her own opinion, I guess.
23 August 2007
April 12 - August 23, 2007
Gato may not have had a long stay on this earth, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of those he touched. I miss him terribly, and it's only been a few hours. We don't know for sure what happened, only that he is no longer with us. He has made this summer the best of my life, and I won't forget him. I love you, Gato. Rest in peace.
For those of you who didn't get a chance to meet the finest feline around, I'm including all the pictures I managed to take of him from my phone. The pictures are under these posts. I hope more follow, as I have a few friends with digital cameras. Well, just one friend with a digital camera, but Marissa has a phone, too. *tear.
For those of you who didn't get a chance to meet the finest feline around, I'm including all the pictures I managed to take of him from my phone. The pictures are under these posts. I hope more follow, as I have a few friends with digital cameras. Well, just one friend with a digital camera, but Marissa has a phone, too. *tear.
14 August 2007
IMPEACH BUSH AND CHENEY
Bush has been abusing power since. . . well, I'm not sure when exactly it happened, but I'm banking on sometime in the '60s. Anyway, if you think the current administration has been pissing on the Constitution, write to your congressperson and tell him/her what you think. There is a movement to impeach Bush and/or Cheney - not a large one, but it has potential. Do the right thing and help kick these assholes out of office. Wiretapping, ignoring habeas corpus, perjury...the list of violations is only growing with time. THEY STILL HAVE A YEAR LEFT IN OFFICE IF WE DON'T ACT NOW.
03 August 2007
Veto #3 on the way?
President Bush has been stingy with his vetoes, only using two thus far; the first against stem-cell research, and the second against bringing troops home from Iraq. Rumors are circulating that if a bill passes (the vote is this week) to give American children free health care, Bush will veto that as well.
Can someone please explain to me the reason for debate on this matter? I'm confused and horrified.
Can someone please explain to me the reason for debate on this matter? I'm confused and horrified.
31 July 2007
The Learnding Channel
I don't have cable. I occasionaly house-sit, which provides me an opportunity to stare at the idiot box for a few fleeting moments to accomplish nothing more than wasting time. Perhaps it was the rise in 'reality' television programming that turned me away, or that cable has become a haven for c-list celebrities to crawl out from the rocks under which they belong. I hate TV. I urge you to stop paying your cable bill and let Time Warner (or whoever) shut off the shit. I've been free from the boob-tube for a few years now, and I feel great.
As it's been a few years, you're probably wondering what prompted me to mention it in my blog today. Three words: The Learning Channel. I don't remember when exactly this channel came into existence, but of the few times I actually saw its format, I learned nothing. There was this one show, I forget the name, that basically exploits the extremely obsese. That's it, as far as I can tell. That's the whole show. After that, there was yet another show about fixing up an old house. What an original concept, TLC. Did the network turn down brilliant new idea for a national talent search?
Usually, it's hard for me to find irony in things, but the fact that I learned nothing from The Learning Channel...that's not as ironic as it is false advertising.
As it's been a few years, you're probably wondering what prompted me to mention it in my blog today. Three words: The Learning Channel. I don't remember when exactly this channel came into existence, but of the few times I actually saw its format, I learned nothing. There was this one show, I forget the name, that basically exploits the extremely obsese. That's it, as far as I can tell. That's the whole show. After that, there was yet another show about fixing up an old house. What an original concept, TLC. Did the network turn down brilliant new idea for a national talent search?
Usually, it's hard for me to find irony in things, but the fact that I learned nothing from The Learning Channel...that's not as ironic as it is false advertising.
The War of Terror
http://www.politicalaffairs.net
/article/articleview/5642/1/275/
I haven't figured out how to make a link in the blog yet, but if you know how to copy and paste, you'll be fine. Just read the article and let me know if you think the 'war on terror' is justified. That's why we're there, isn't it?
/article/articleview/5642/1/275/
I haven't figured out how to make a link in the blog yet, but if you know how to copy and paste, you'll be fine. Just read the article and let me know if you think the 'war on terror' is justified. That's why we're there, isn't it?
17 July 2007
You might be a red if...
This whole thing started when I was (finally) filling out my voter registration form. There's a little box that asks you which political party you would like to be affiliated with, and after careful consideration I marked 'other.' On the line adjacent to 'other,' I wrote COMMUNIST. The way I figured it at the time, it could be a good excuse to get out of jury duty someday. But not likely.
The more I thought about it, the more I realized that there's a good chance I'm a commie. I've read Marx and Engels; I'm a big fan of Cuba, Castro, and Che; Trotsky and Lenin seem like pretty good dudes, so I might just be red. I mean, I'm certainly not a capitalist, and have grown to hate money, property, religion, and pride...
To try and coerce me back to democracy, you could bring up a few names...Stalin, Mao, and Kim Jong Il, but keep in mind that the leader of the 'free' world is George W. Bush, whose atrocities and basic human rights violations are too numerous and well-known to include in this blog.
Well, after I sent in my voter registration, I did a little online research and ended up officially joining the Communist Party of America. What happens next, I don't know, but I'm off to finish Leon Trotsky's biography. I hope I hear from my local party member soon. Let me know what you think - if you like communism or are stuck in the red scare. Maybe I'm just being naive, but I don't see what all the fuss is about.
Oh, and in honor of my new-found political affiliation, I'm changing the color of the text in Sample Blog. I hope you enjoy it.
The more I thought about it, the more I realized that there's a good chance I'm a commie. I've read Marx and Engels; I'm a big fan of Cuba, Castro, and Che; Trotsky and Lenin seem like pretty good dudes, so I might just be red. I mean, I'm certainly not a capitalist, and have grown to hate money, property, religion, and pride...
To try and coerce me back to democracy, you could bring up a few names...Stalin, Mao, and Kim Jong Il, but keep in mind that the leader of the 'free' world is George W. Bush, whose atrocities and basic human rights violations are too numerous and well-known to include in this blog.
Well, after I sent in my voter registration, I did a little online research and ended up officially joining the Communist Party of America. What happens next, I don't know, but I'm off to finish Leon Trotsky's biography. I hope I hear from my local party member soon. Let me know what you think - if you like communism or are stuck in the red scare. Maybe I'm just being naive, but I don't see what all the fuss is about.
Oh, and in honor of my new-found political affiliation, I'm changing the color of the text in Sample Blog. I hope you enjoy it.
10 July 2007
Birthday Boi
July 12 is my Birthday. Hooray. I'm going to be 25 years old. I'm still getting ID'd when I try to buy a drink, so being an adult is looking good so far. It just dawned on me that I didn't talk about June 2007 in this blog.
Here's a recap:
Marissa and I set off on a road-trip in the North East United States in early June, and things got off to a rocky start. Due to an illness we had to return home after only two or three days camping in Vermont. The spot we found next to Kill River was beautiful and free, so that's a plus.
After Marissa felt better, we drove to Virginia Beach, Busch Gardens (VA), and Washington DC to visit my sister, Tracy. After that, we took a lovely trip up the Susquehanna river to get home, re-pack and plan the next (last) leg of our trip.
The third and final leg began heading east on Route 20 all the way to Boston where we met up with my old friend Rachel Luck who took us to a great Thai restaurant. Boston was nice, but the 'thrift' stores we found weren't exactly for the thrifty. It worries me to think that people actually spend $50 on a t-shirt. Following Boston was my personal favorite part of the trip - MAINE!
If you ever get the chance to go to Maine, do so. I want to live there. We found a great Bed & Breakfast called the Bluff Inn next to the ocean opposite Bar Harbor. They serve great breakfasts and the view is great! Check them out on the web at www.bluffinn.com.
Sure, there were a lot of bugs, but the scenery was worth the bites. Acadia National Park is all it's cracked up to be.
After staying in Maine for three days, trying lobster and counting 'cappys' along the highway, we decided to head back by way of Vermont, to stay at our old campsite again.
When we got back from our trip, we unpacked and picked up our kitten, whose name had been difficult to agree upon until we stumbled upon 'Gato.' If I ever figure out how to put a picture up, I'll definitely put one up of that little turd.
June was fantastic. Whoever doesn't like June is a sucker. And Maine, too.
Happy Birthday to me.
Here's a recap:
Marissa and I set off on a road-trip in the North East United States in early June, and things got off to a rocky start. Due to an illness we had to return home after only two or three days camping in Vermont. The spot we found next to Kill River was beautiful and free, so that's a plus.
After Marissa felt better, we drove to Virginia Beach, Busch Gardens (VA), and Washington DC to visit my sister, Tracy. After that, we took a lovely trip up the Susquehanna river to get home, re-pack and plan the next (last) leg of our trip.
The third and final leg began heading east on Route 20 all the way to Boston where we met up with my old friend Rachel Luck who took us to a great Thai restaurant. Boston was nice, but the 'thrift' stores we found weren't exactly for the thrifty. It worries me to think that people actually spend $50 on a t-shirt. Following Boston was my personal favorite part of the trip - MAINE!
If you ever get the chance to go to Maine, do so. I want to live there. We found a great Bed & Breakfast called the Bluff Inn next to the ocean opposite Bar Harbor. They serve great breakfasts and the view is great! Check them out on the web at www.bluffinn.com.
Sure, there were a lot of bugs, but the scenery was worth the bites. Acadia National Park is all it's cracked up to be.
After staying in Maine for three days, trying lobster and counting 'cappys' along the highway, we decided to head back by way of Vermont, to stay at our old campsite again.
When we got back from our trip, we unpacked and picked up our kitten, whose name had been difficult to agree upon until we stumbled upon 'Gato.' If I ever figure out how to put a picture up, I'll definitely put one up of that little turd.
June was fantastic. Whoever doesn't like June is a sucker. And Maine, too.
Happy Birthday to me.
03 July 2007
Some animals are more equal than others.
This is the first letter I've written to a Congressperson, and I feel strongly enough about this issue to include it in my blog that nobody reads.
Representative Arcuri,
I am a journalism student at Utica College and currently an unregistered voter. At this point in time, I see little reason to register to vote as my faith in the democratic process dwindles every time I open a newspaper. To say that I am upset at the lack of justice served to "Scooter" Libby is a bit of an understatement. Can you refresh my memory as to why we allow presidential pardons? I fail to see the positive aspect of that particular act. It's not enough that Bush has ignored the writ of Habeus Corpus, now he's allowing a guilty man freedom. Where is justice?
I am not writing because I expect any type of change in the near future, I just want a favor - the next time you see Mr. Bush or any of the White House staff, please let them know how little I respect them.
Thank you for your time,
Travis L. Olivera
If I get a response, I'll put it up here too.
Representative Arcuri,
I am a journalism student at Utica College and currently an unregistered voter. At this point in time, I see little reason to register to vote as my faith in the democratic process dwindles every time I open a newspaper. To say that I am upset at the lack of justice served to "Scooter" Libby is a bit of an understatement. Can you refresh my memory as to why we allow presidential pardons? I fail to see the positive aspect of that particular act. It's not enough that Bush has ignored the writ of Habeus Corpus, now he's allowing a guilty man freedom. Where is justice?
I am not writing because I expect any type of change in the near future, I just want a favor - the next time you see Mr. Bush or any of the White House staff, please let them know how little I respect them.
Thank you for your time,
Travis L. Olivera
If I get a response, I'll put it up here too.
18 May 2007
I do book reviews too.
Below is a link to another blog that I contribute book reviews to, like, every month or so. I've only done two so far, but if you really, really like me, you might want to read those too. The other link is the band I'm in. You can probably figure out which one I am if you don't know me already. After I write this, I'll also make a link to my significant other's blog. She's got a lot of stuff to get off her chest, and I love the way she writes. That's it for now. I'm supposed to be working.
~Travis
~Travis
04 May 2007
Having doubts
Well, the Spring '07 semester has drawn to a close, and all I have to show for it is a bigger debt. I actually gained knowledge from two of my classes, two were a complete waste of time, and one I have to re-take in the fall. This 'core requirement' bullshit is nothing more than an excuse for the college to make more money. From my perspective, the core classes are just things that you took in high school (or middle school), and have to take them again because the college doesn't allow transfer credits from Waterville Public.
I could talk about the negative aspects of this semester, and the college in general, all day, so I'll just move on to the positives -
1. The school radio station offers plenty of DJ spots on 90.7 FM. I took advantage of this opportunity and ended up spending more time coming up with playlists for two shows a week than I did on homework for my five classes combined. Too bad I didn't get paid for that.
2. There really aren't any other redeeming qualities about Utica College. If you're thinking about going there, work at Nice 'n' Easy instead.
Sidenote: If you're interested in listening to my show on the radio, it's 90.7 FM in the Utica/Rome area. I'm on every Tuesday* and Thursday* from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Why is it that all I really want to do in life is put away books and have time to read in the library? If the only reason I'm going to college is to get a rewarding job, why am I so content with my barely-above minimum-wage gig working for the man? In my Junior year, I find it more and more difficult to find reasons to fill out my FAFSA form.
Maybe it's because this is my sixth college and fourth major in seven years, but I'm sick of it.
*all radio shows and times subject to change in the future. I'll update with any changes that may occur in the future.
Spitefully yours,
Travis
I could talk about the negative aspects of this semester, and the college in general, all day, so I'll just move on to the positives -
1. The school radio station offers plenty of DJ spots on 90.7 FM. I took advantage of this opportunity and ended up spending more time coming up with playlists for two shows a week than I did on homework for my five classes combined. Too bad I didn't get paid for that.
2. There really aren't any other redeeming qualities about Utica College. If you're thinking about going there, work at Nice 'n' Easy instead.
Sidenote: If you're interested in listening to my show on the radio, it's 90.7 FM in the Utica/Rome area. I'm on every Tuesday* and Thursday* from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Why is it that all I really want to do in life is put away books and have time to read in the library? If the only reason I'm going to college is to get a rewarding job, why am I so content with my barely-above minimum-wage gig working for the man? In my Junior year, I find it more and more difficult to find reasons to fill out my FAFSA form.
Maybe it's because this is my sixth college and fourth major in seven years, but I'm sick of it.
*all radio shows and times subject to change in the future. I'll update with any changes that may occur in the future.
Spitefully yours,
Travis
23 January 2007
Bookstore Mayhem
Everyone complains about the price of college textbooks, yet no one does anything about it. At the most, a person can choose not to purchase the book from this outlet, and is usually penalized in some way for doing so. If, for example, you buy books online, a waiting period is in order; either waiting for the auction of the book to end or for delivery services, causing you to miss early assignments. Some students, like myself, oftentimes do not purchase expensive texts at all, which in turn hurts their GPA in the long run.
Before I get to that, I need to share a story. At the close of every semester, the college bookstore offers a 'buyback' opportunity on select texts, where they pay you half what was charged at the start of the semester, then sell it back to the college community for the 'used' retail price. This is much higher than what they pay for it to get it in stock from the college students. If you miss the 'buyback' period, they pay you even less for a book, about half of what you would have received if you waited in line at the close of the semester.
I misplaced a text for one of my courses about half-way through the semester, only to find the book over winter break. I missed the buyback period, and was only given $17 for the book, which, as a poor college student, isn't too bad. When classes began two days later, I found out I needed the book for another class. I immediately went to the bookstore and explained my situation, offering to pay them the $17 in return for my book, which I sold to them two days earlier. Apparently, this was not an option. My book, I was told, was sent off THE SAME DAY to a processing center, and there was no way they could locate it. In order for me to have an exchange, I would need the exact same book. I then asked if I could possibly have $17 off another used book, and that too, was out of the question. Luckily, one of my professors was nice enough to put the book on hold in the library after I explained my conundrum to her.
At this point, a week into the semester, I have only purchased two books. I am supposed to have five. I cannot afford to spend any more money. Because of bad credit, I can't get a credit card with which to purchase books online, and am forced to use the bookstore for all my texts.
In closing, I would just like to say 'fuck you,' to the barnes & noble booksellers at Utica College, and will forever refuse to capitalize the name of their bogus corporation.
I hate to bitch so much on my first official posting, but whatever. When will people realize that college textbook publishers are a monopoly, preying on poor college students who 'need' their books to get high GPAs. Not every college student has a book voucher, you know.
Before I get to that, I need to share a story. At the close of every semester, the college bookstore offers a 'buyback' opportunity on select texts, where they pay you half what was charged at the start of the semester, then sell it back to the college community for the 'used' retail price. This is much higher than what they pay for it to get it in stock from the college students. If you miss the 'buyback' period, they pay you even less for a book, about half of what you would have received if you waited in line at the close of the semester.
I misplaced a text for one of my courses about half-way through the semester, only to find the book over winter break. I missed the buyback period, and was only given $17 for the book, which, as a poor college student, isn't too bad. When classes began two days later, I found out I needed the book for another class. I immediately went to the bookstore and explained my situation, offering to pay them the $17 in return for my book, which I sold to them two days earlier. Apparently, this was not an option. My book, I was told, was sent off THE SAME DAY to a processing center, and there was no way they could locate it. In order for me to have an exchange, I would need the exact same book. I then asked if I could possibly have $17 off another used book, and that too, was out of the question. Luckily, one of my professors was nice enough to put the book on hold in the library after I explained my conundrum to her.
At this point, a week into the semester, I have only purchased two books. I am supposed to have five. I cannot afford to spend any more money. Because of bad credit, I can't get a credit card with which to purchase books online, and am forced to use the bookstore for all my texts.
In closing, I would just like to say 'fuck you,' to the barnes & noble booksellers at Utica College, and will forever refuse to capitalize the name of their bogus corporation.
I hate to bitch so much on my first official posting, but whatever. When will people realize that college textbook publishers are a monopoly, preying on poor college students who 'need' their books to get high GPAs. Not every college student has a book voucher, you know.
11 January 2007
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