This week’s written analysis centers on the use of after school sports to keep today’s youth active and out of trouble. I chose an article in the Columbus Dispatch to analyze, Smith-Richards, J. (2008). The Columbus Dispatch, Pingpong diplomacy. 11/2/2008. This article was written to emphasize the need to keep our youth active after school in order to keep them out of trouble. With both parents working in many of the households today, there is often a struggle to keep an eye of what our children are up to before we get home. This article addresses the need to use sports to keep children active.
It’s no secret that when children are left to watch themselves they will usually make bad decisions. Often times both parents work and children are left of their own after school. This article centers around a program put together by a local teacher that uses pingpong competitions to keep kids busy after school. According to Richards, J. (2008), when the last class at Lakeview Junior High in Pickerington, OH ends every Tuesday, a fascinating study in adolescence begins. The after school pingpong program was put together by teacher Mr. Hanzlik and it is said that the kids follow him wherever he has the pingpong tables set up.
This program uses the popular sport of pingpong to entice children to stay active after school. The result, more and more kids join the program each Tuesday. Mr. Hanzlik structures the program so that everyone is welcome from the beginner to the expert. He emphasizes team work and commraderie among the youth. Hanzlik states, “These aren’t just table-tennis lessons. They are lessons in equality. Diplomacy. Justice.”
There is a lot to be said for an activity that will keep kids active and out of trouble after school and this program does just that. Through the use of the pop culture sport pingpong, teachers have been able to teach kids interaction skills, good competition, and relationship skills. I’m a believer. Our kids need supervision and guidance at all times even when we are working. This program has proven to build strong interpersonal skills in children that were weak in this area. Next time you wonder what your kids are doing after school, enroll them in an after-school program.
Reference
Smith-Richards, J. (2008). The Columbus Dispatch. Pingpong Diplomacy. 11/02/2008
Monday, November 3, 2008
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Assignment 4-1: Weekly Written Analysis 4
This week’s Weekly Written Analysis was taken from an article in the Columbus Dispatch; K. Gordon (2008). Penn Statement, Columbus Dispatch. Sunday October 26, 2008. As the roar of the stadium began shortly before game time the impact of sports on popular American culture was obvious. In Columbus, Ohio there is no other place to be or program to watch other than the Buckeyes football game. With a season originally toted as a rebuilding season, The Ohio State Buckeyes have taken their team with a true freshman quarterback, and turned what was thought to be a losing season into one where great things are made and incredible stories are made.
This article was written in the aftermath of a Penn State win over The Ohio State Buckeyes for the first time in Ohio Stadium in the last thirty years. This win marks the first time the Nittany Lions have beaten the Buckeyes in the Shoe since they joined the Big 10 conference ten years ago. Wow! Was all anyone could say when it was all said and done. Our extreme devotion to the popular culture icon of the college football star is what keeps up coming back game after game and season after season. Saturday October 25, 2008 was no different. With the Buckeyes ranked number 9 and Penn State ranked number 3 in the country, it was obvious the game would be close.
As the fourth quarter began with the game tied at 6-6, it was a true nail biter all the way to the end. That is, until our true freshman quarterback fumbled the ball. Oh no…all of the dreams of a possible national championship team dwindled all at once. The feeling was written on the face of every Buckeye fan the camera came in contact with. All at once the Buckeye defense pushed harder, but still allowed one touchdown. Our offense retook the field and pushed for one last touchdown to tie the game. Then it happened. Pryor threw an interception and it was all over.
As we elevate college football players to the level of celebrity we often forget they are still human. Just one year ago Pryor was a high school senior playing high school football. He may not be completely aware of the celebrity status he has achieved, but on this day he was rattled. Super-Human? No. just human.
Reference
K. Gordon (2008). Penn Statement, Columbus Dispatch. Sunday October 26, 2008.
This article was written in the aftermath of a Penn State win over The Ohio State Buckeyes for the first time in Ohio Stadium in the last thirty years. This win marks the first time the Nittany Lions have beaten the Buckeyes in the Shoe since they joined the Big 10 conference ten years ago. Wow! Was all anyone could say when it was all said and done. Our extreme devotion to the popular culture icon of the college football star is what keeps up coming back game after game and season after season. Saturday October 25, 2008 was no different. With the Buckeyes ranked number 9 and Penn State ranked number 3 in the country, it was obvious the game would be close.
As the fourth quarter began with the game tied at 6-6, it was a true nail biter all the way to the end. That is, until our true freshman quarterback fumbled the ball. Oh no…all of the dreams of a possible national championship team dwindled all at once. The feeling was written on the face of every Buckeye fan the camera came in contact with. All at once the Buckeye defense pushed harder, but still allowed one touchdown. Our offense retook the field and pushed for one last touchdown to tie the game. Then it happened. Pryor threw an interception and it was all over.
As we elevate college football players to the level of celebrity we often forget they are still human. Just one year ago Pryor was a high school senior playing high school football. He may not be completely aware of the celebrity status he has achieved, but on this day he was rattled. Super-Human? No. just human.
Reference
K. Gordon (2008). Penn Statement, Columbus Dispatch. Sunday October 26, 2008.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Assignment 3-1: Weekly Written Analysis 3
This week I have chosen an article from the Los Angeles Times that appeared in the Columbus Dispatch, Sunday October 19, 2008 written by Matea Gold: “Palin “way hotter in person” on SNL. This article was written in response to Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin’s appearance on the popular live television shows Saturday Night Live.
For many years Saturday Night Live has boosted its ratings by incorporating satire related to those in politics. This latest episode was no different. Saturday Night Live has made itself an icon on American Popular culture through emphasizing flaws in those we see in the public eye and as such, politicians are fair game. Ever Since John McCain announced his Vice Presidential running mate Sarah Palin, Saturday Night Live has had a ball with making fun of her political stance, lack of experience, and Soccer Mom mentality. Her character in played by Tina Fey of the popular TV show “30 Rock”. Many have been astounded by how much she resembles Palin. This makes the political satire all the more amusing.
In this particular episode, Fey is going through her usual antics making fun of Palin and all her flaws. Palin is observed talking to SNL producer Lorne Michaels backstage. She appears to be watching Fey’s depiction of her. She makes a comment that she doesn’t think the depiction is accurate and that her press conferences would not have been handled in that way. As the skit continues, Alec Baldwin (also of 30 Rock) makes his way backstage and bumps into the “real” Palin and Michaels. He greets Palin as “Tina” and pleas for Michaels not to let Tina go out with the real Palin who he thinks is part of the live skit taking place on stage. When Michaels tells him the real Palin is right in front of him he says, “Forgive Me, I feel I must say this: You are way hotter in person.”
In a presidential election year our candidates are anxious to be present in the public eye to win your vote. It seems they will stop at nothing even self humiliation to tell you they are human. Sarah Palin’s presence on SNL is proof of that.
Reference
M. Gold (2008). The Columbus Dispatch. Originally written for the Los Angeles Times. Palin “way hotter in person” on SNL. Sunday October 19, 2008.
For many years Saturday Night Live has boosted its ratings by incorporating satire related to those in politics. This latest episode was no different. Saturday Night Live has made itself an icon on American Popular culture through emphasizing flaws in those we see in the public eye and as such, politicians are fair game. Ever Since John McCain announced his Vice Presidential running mate Sarah Palin, Saturday Night Live has had a ball with making fun of her political stance, lack of experience, and Soccer Mom mentality. Her character in played by Tina Fey of the popular TV show “30 Rock”. Many have been astounded by how much she resembles Palin. This makes the political satire all the more amusing.
In this particular episode, Fey is going through her usual antics making fun of Palin and all her flaws. Palin is observed talking to SNL producer Lorne Michaels backstage. She appears to be watching Fey’s depiction of her. She makes a comment that she doesn’t think the depiction is accurate and that her press conferences would not have been handled in that way. As the skit continues, Alec Baldwin (also of 30 Rock) makes his way backstage and bumps into the “real” Palin and Michaels. He greets Palin as “Tina” and pleas for Michaels not to let Tina go out with the real Palin who he thinks is part of the live skit taking place on stage. When Michaels tells him the real Palin is right in front of him he says, “Forgive Me, I feel I must say this: You are way hotter in person.”
In a presidential election year our candidates are anxious to be present in the public eye to win your vote. It seems they will stop at nothing even self humiliation to tell you they are human. Sarah Palin’s presence on SNL is proof of that.
Reference
M. Gold (2008). The Columbus Dispatch. Originally written for the Los Angeles Times. Palin “way hotter in person” on SNL. Sunday October 19, 2008.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Assignment 1-3: Journal Article Analysis
This article analysis is written in analysis of an essay written by Jordan Schildcrout entitled “The Performance of Nonconformity on the Muppet Show- or, How Kermit Made Me Queer. This article is designed to compare the characters of the popular 70’s The Muppet Show to the socially acceptable norms of its times. What is discovered is the vast challenges this show made to acceptable social norms and how these challenges were subtle upon first inspection, but when studied became very apparent. This article is analyzed to show just how those norms were challenged and how this show became a huge part of popular culture of its time.
Jim Henson, creator of the Muppet Show, got his start as the chief creator of Sesame Street, a popular Children’s Television Workshop show, designed around Henson’s puppet characters. Sesame Street first appeared in 1969 and continues to this day. While Henson was held to themes and characters designed to enhance childhood learning, he possessed a very radical side. As he was unable to express his personal views with Sesame Street he came up with the idea for the Muppet Show. When he first marketed the show idea to major television executives they shot him down. The show was eventually picked up by a production studio in England and exploded in its first year.
As I stated above, many accepted social norms were challenged during the Muppet Show’s reign on television. Among the norms challenged were, women’s perceived role as homemaker, sexual orientation (homesexual vs. heterosexual), and all sorts of race issues prevalent at that time. While this show was produced and aired largely from 1976 to 1981, its popularity continues to this day with full-scale movies centered around the show’s Muppet character cast.
To begin, Schildcrout points out the many social norms that are challenged. He talks about homosexuality and how the show touched the subject without literally touching the subject. One example that is used is the appearance of Elton John on the program and notes that this appearance was not long after John made his bisexuality publically known. One of the Muppet characters takes offense to John’s “flamboyant dress”, stating that his appearance borders on revolutionary. In essence he is challenging John’s presence on this show as improper. He makes a statement about Mozart not being a fancy dresser as a rebuttal to Kermit’s statement that most musicians are flamboyant dressers. When he realizes he has lost the argument the show takes a new direction. By the end of that episode all of the cast are dressed flamboyantly including Sam the Eagle. This particular episode thrust homosexuality into the open light of discussion while never using the language.
Shildcrout goes on to discuss the show’s approach to racial issues. The Muppet characters’ racial ethnicity was sometimes very hard to distinguish while some characters were very apparently white. Such as Statler and Waldorf who he describes as the elderly curmudgeons, others are not as easily distinguished. Many of the characters did not represent any minority group. They were non-ethnic if there is such a thing. Coming in all sizes and colors and the fact that most of the characters were not even human made this possible. Because most of the characters were not human gave the show the ability to place them in all sorts of circumstances without social prejudice. Issues could be attacked without the social stigma of racism and stereotyping. This made it possible for the creators of the Muppet Show to challenge many of the cultural norms they attacked.
In the end, it is clear that the Muppet Show was able to cross cultural lines playing to all audiences without preconceived bias. This made it possible to make fun of, portray, and challenge social stereotypes from sexual orientation to racial ethnicity. The lack of racial identification of the cast gave them the ability to serve as who they were without racial and sexual bias. In conclusion, the show and its creator Jim Henson proved to be genius in confronting cultural norms and challenging the very foundations that held them up. The show’s popularity proved how successful this method of portrayal placed to all audiences.
Reference
J. Schildcrout (2008). The Performance of Nonconformity on the Muppet Show- or How Kermit Made Me Queer. The Journal of Popular Culture, Vol. 41, No. 5, 2008
Jim Henson, creator of the Muppet Show, got his start as the chief creator of Sesame Street, a popular Children’s Television Workshop show, designed around Henson’s puppet characters. Sesame Street first appeared in 1969 and continues to this day. While Henson was held to themes and characters designed to enhance childhood learning, he possessed a very radical side. As he was unable to express his personal views with Sesame Street he came up with the idea for the Muppet Show. When he first marketed the show idea to major television executives they shot him down. The show was eventually picked up by a production studio in England and exploded in its first year.
As I stated above, many accepted social norms were challenged during the Muppet Show’s reign on television. Among the norms challenged were, women’s perceived role as homemaker, sexual orientation (homesexual vs. heterosexual), and all sorts of race issues prevalent at that time. While this show was produced and aired largely from 1976 to 1981, its popularity continues to this day with full-scale movies centered around the show’s Muppet character cast.
To begin, Schildcrout points out the many social norms that are challenged. He talks about homosexuality and how the show touched the subject without literally touching the subject. One example that is used is the appearance of Elton John on the program and notes that this appearance was not long after John made his bisexuality publically known. One of the Muppet characters takes offense to John’s “flamboyant dress”, stating that his appearance borders on revolutionary. In essence he is challenging John’s presence on this show as improper. He makes a statement about Mozart not being a fancy dresser as a rebuttal to Kermit’s statement that most musicians are flamboyant dressers. When he realizes he has lost the argument the show takes a new direction. By the end of that episode all of the cast are dressed flamboyantly including Sam the Eagle. This particular episode thrust homosexuality into the open light of discussion while never using the language.
Shildcrout goes on to discuss the show’s approach to racial issues. The Muppet characters’ racial ethnicity was sometimes very hard to distinguish while some characters were very apparently white. Such as Statler and Waldorf who he describes as the elderly curmudgeons, others are not as easily distinguished. Many of the characters did not represent any minority group. They were non-ethnic if there is such a thing. Coming in all sizes and colors and the fact that most of the characters were not even human made this possible. Because most of the characters were not human gave the show the ability to place them in all sorts of circumstances without social prejudice. Issues could be attacked without the social stigma of racism and stereotyping. This made it possible for the creators of the Muppet Show to challenge many of the cultural norms they attacked.
In the end, it is clear that the Muppet Show was able to cross cultural lines playing to all audiences without preconceived bias. This made it possible to make fun of, portray, and challenge social stereotypes from sexual orientation to racial ethnicity. The lack of racial identification of the cast gave them the ability to serve as who they were without racial and sexual bias. In conclusion, the show and its creator Jim Henson proved to be genius in confronting cultural norms and challenging the very foundations that held them up. The show’s popularity proved how successful this method of portrayal placed to all audiences.
Reference
J. Schildcrout (2008). The Performance of Nonconformity on the Muppet Show- or How Kermit Made Me Queer. The Journal of Popular Culture, Vol. 41, No. 5, 2008
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Assignment 2-1: Weekly Written Analysis 2
The basis for my analysis this week is an article I read in the Columbus Dispatch (Columbus Ohio) called “Online Overdose” written by Mike Pramik of the Columbus Dispatch. When one thinks of popular culture one doesn’t often associate addictions. I think this is a popular topic that is missed in mainstream discussions and is often left for those in activist groups to sort out. In my opinion, the vast majority of Americans would rather not deal with the issue and sweep it under the rug. As you will see from my analysis there are more drug related issues for us to be aware of.
This article is written to highlight the growing concern of online pharmacies, moreover the lack of controls and regulations concerning their business practices. Who knew it was so easy to get your hands on controlled prescription medications such as Vicodin, and Oxycontin. Both prescription medications are considered highly addictive by the medical and drug communities and can now be obtained via the internet with very little effort. According to the article, in order to qualify for the medications, many online pharmacies require the patient to answer a few easy questions. After the questions are answered staff physicians write the prescription which is filled and delivered directly to your home. This is a very convenient was to satisfy ones addiction in my opinion and also very dangerous.
According to the article I read, addiction to prescription medications ranks second in the US only to marijuana. At the rate prescription addictions are going it won’t be long before marijuana gets edged out for the top spot. Also according to M. Pramik (2008) “Online Overdose” , Columbus Dispatch Sunday October 12, 2008, the DEA office of Diversion said the sale of the painkiller oxycodone in the US increased nearly nine times from 1996 to 2006. Rogue pharmacies are at the heart of the problem.
When it comes to the internet it is obvious that our laws have yet to find a way to truly regulate all of the ecommerce traffic. Until we have a viable system for policing this internet activity it’s best to look out for yourself. This includes keeping a very watchful eye on children and their exposure to uncontrolled internet traffic.
Reference
M. Pramik (2008). Online Overdose. The Columbus Dispatch Sunday October 12, 2008.
This article is written to highlight the growing concern of online pharmacies, moreover the lack of controls and regulations concerning their business practices. Who knew it was so easy to get your hands on controlled prescription medications such as Vicodin, and Oxycontin. Both prescription medications are considered highly addictive by the medical and drug communities and can now be obtained via the internet with very little effort. According to the article, in order to qualify for the medications, many online pharmacies require the patient to answer a few easy questions. After the questions are answered staff physicians write the prescription which is filled and delivered directly to your home. This is a very convenient was to satisfy ones addiction in my opinion and also very dangerous.
According to the article I read, addiction to prescription medications ranks second in the US only to marijuana. At the rate prescription addictions are going it won’t be long before marijuana gets edged out for the top spot. Also according to M. Pramik (2008) “Online Overdose” , Columbus Dispatch Sunday October 12, 2008, the DEA office of Diversion said the sale of the painkiller oxycodone in the US increased nearly nine times from 1996 to 2006. Rogue pharmacies are at the heart of the problem.
When it comes to the internet it is obvious that our laws have yet to find a way to truly regulate all of the ecommerce traffic. Until we have a viable system for policing this internet activity it’s best to look out for yourself. This includes keeping a very watchful eye on children and their exposure to uncontrolled internet traffic.
Reference
M. Pramik (2008). Online Overdose. The Columbus Dispatch Sunday October 12, 2008.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Assignment 2-2: Icon Analysis
For this assignment I chose to analyze the current presidential election, the television show ER, and satellite radio. I believe the current presidential election is playing a huge part in pop culture. Most Americans are paying much closer attention to this election as there is a large amount of personal security at stake. The chosen person will help direct the U.S. out of the economic downturn we are experiencing. The television show ER has been a part of popular culture for many years. This is its final season. Finally, satellite radio has just made history by merging the two companies of Sirius and XM. This merger indicates that there is a lot of interest in unedited radio.
First I chose the presidential election because its outcome is extremely important for the future success of our country. As a citizen of this country I have been deeply impacted by the poor economic conditions we are currently experiencing. I believe many if not all Americans are basing current consumer decisions on current economic conditions. I also believe that the outcome of this election will make or break consumer confidence moving forward. Second I chose the television show ER because I feel it has had a huge impact on popular culture. Many TV shows have stemmed from this one including Grey’s Anatomy, The Practice, House, and many others. Lastly I chose satellite radio. I believe the merger of Sirius and XM will lead to thousands of consumers switching from terrestrial radio to satellite. I believe that consumers enjoy the consolidated unedited content. With this merger satellite radio will now offer all major pro sporting events inside one subscription.
As a US citizen this election is the most important I have participated in. I find myself very in-tune with both party platforms. Further, I believe that the outcome of this election will be the most important decision the American public have made collectively in a very long time. Its success will drive us out of the horrible economic and international positions we are in. As a television watcher I am sad to see ER leave. It has been a part of pop culture for the last twelve years. Finally, I am a consumer with a subscription to Sirius satellite radio. I was very happy to see the merger go through as I now have access to all major sporting events.
First I chose the presidential election because its outcome is extremely important for the future success of our country. As a citizen of this country I have been deeply impacted by the poor economic conditions we are currently experiencing. I believe many if not all Americans are basing current consumer decisions on current economic conditions. I also believe that the outcome of this election will make or break consumer confidence moving forward. Second I chose the television show ER because I feel it has had a huge impact on popular culture. Many TV shows have stemmed from this one including Grey’s Anatomy, The Practice, House, and many others. Lastly I chose satellite radio. I believe the merger of Sirius and XM will lead to thousands of consumers switching from terrestrial radio to satellite. I believe that consumers enjoy the consolidated unedited content. With this merger satellite radio will now offer all major pro sporting events inside one subscription.
As a US citizen this election is the most important I have participated in. I find myself very in-tune with both party platforms. Further, I believe that the outcome of this election will be the most important decision the American public have made collectively in a very long time. Its success will drive us out of the horrible economic and international positions we are in. As a television watcher I am sad to see ER leave. It has been a part of pop culture for the last twelve years. Finally, I am a consumer with a subscription to Sirius satellite radio. I was very happy to see the merger go through as I now have access to all major sporting events.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Assignment 1-4: Weekly Written Analysis 1
Blogging:
What exactly is blogging? Until I started this class on popular culture I could only guess at the answer. I have never been one to use the internet for social engagement including using chat rooms. I realize the popularity of such tools, but have never been drawn to using them. So when I first heard the term “Blogging” I could only imagine what it was. I never made any attempt to understand the topic as it never interested me. After starting my own blog for this course I have been amazed by the extreme popularity of the communication tool.
According to M. Conniff (2005), the definition of a blog contains “"I can define them for you very easily," Jason Calcanis says. "There are three main features of a blog: the first is reverse chronological order, the second is unfiltered content -- the second somebody filters or edits the author it's no longer a blog -- and the third is comments." Calcanis's insistence on a precise definition puts him clearly in a minority of blogging experts who mostly admit they can't or won't define exactly what constitutes a blog.” As you can see from this definition there is no exact definition of a blog. In fact, when researching the topic on the internet, it seems many are hesitant to try and define a blog. So what is a blog? A blog in my opinion, is a discussion of any topic the author sees fit. Most blogs are open for popular discussion meaning anyone can post a comment to and contribute openly to the discussion taking place. This also makes a blog a very dynamic discussion moving in many different directions based on the opinions and contributions of its readers.
So, the next time you ask the question: What is a blog?, try searching the internet for the answer. You will probably end up more confused than when you started, but you will also come up with some fantastic information. I was not one to take advantage of the level of communication the internet has to offer in the form of a blog. However, I have taken the plunge and am glad I did. Next time you have some free time try blogging. You’ll enjoy it.
Reference
Conniff, M. (2005). Just What is a Blog. Retrieved October 5, 2008 from http://www.ojr.org/ojr/stories/050929/
What exactly is blogging? Until I started this class on popular culture I could only guess at the answer. I have never been one to use the internet for social engagement including using chat rooms. I realize the popularity of such tools, but have never been drawn to using them. So when I first heard the term “Blogging” I could only imagine what it was. I never made any attempt to understand the topic as it never interested me. After starting my own blog for this course I have been amazed by the extreme popularity of the communication tool.
According to M. Conniff (2005), the definition of a blog contains “"I can define them for you very easily," Jason Calcanis says. "There are three main features of a blog: the first is reverse chronological order, the second is unfiltered content -- the second somebody filters or edits the author it's no longer a blog -- and the third is comments." Calcanis's insistence on a precise definition puts him clearly in a minority of blogging experts who mostly admit they can't or won't define exactly what constitutes a blog.” As you can see from this definition there is no exact definition of a blog. In fact, when researching the topic on the internet, it seems many are hesitant to try and define a blog. So what is a blog? A blog in my opinion, is a discussion of any topic the author sees fit. Most blogs are open for popular discussion meaning anyone can post a comment to and contribute openly to the discussion taking place. This also makes a blog a very dynamic discussion moving in many different directions based on the opinions and contributions of its readers.
So, the next time you ask the question: What is a blog?, try searching the internet for the answer. You will probably end up more confused than when you started, but you will also come up with some fantastic information. I was not one to take advantage of the level of communication the internet has to offer in the form of a blog. However, I have taken the plunge and am glad I did. Next time you have some free time try blogging. You’ll enjoy it.
Reference
Conniff, M. (2005). Just What is a Blog. Retrieved October 5, 2008 from http://www.ojr.org/ojr/stories/050929/
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