Free Write

For my free write today I chose to write a review/commentary piece about the movie, "Where to Invade Next."This film was directed by Michael Moore, documentary filmmaker and political activist. I saw an early screening of this movie about a month ago and ever since I've been fired up about the issues it discussed. Some of the topics relate to education, drugs, government spending, police officers, prison, and proper employee hour and benefits. "Where to Invade Next" begins with a hilarious scene featuring important US government officials asking Moore to "invade countries and steal some ideas to help improve America. Moore visited Italy, France, Finland, Slovenia, Portugal, Iceland, etc. 

He discovered affordable and healthy school lunches in France. They were served on real silverware and the kids were taught table manners. France also has a very informative class for high schoolers, sex ed. The teachers go very in depth with the subject and the curriculum even has a formal textbook. France's teen pregnancy rate is much lower than ours in the United States. In Finland, Moore planted his flag and claimed their principles on education. He talked about brining back the ideas of no homework and enjoying youth while you still have it. The schools in Finland stopped teaching to standardized and focused on the quality of education. School hours are shorter and the classes are more interesting. The students get to take classes like art and poetry. The school Moore visited claims that all schools in Finland are like this because there are no private schools. Wealthier families let their kids grow up along side everyone else so they invest in public schools.

When Moore traveled to Italy, he talked to big business owners who let him in on the employee's schedule and benefits. When he found out that the Italian workers get about 11 paid weeks off a year, Moore was astonished. He asked them why they received such generous time off and one of the CEO replied, "I get a nice vacation, why shouldn't they?" The American values we have instilled in our country have evolved into beliefs that only concern profit. This movie opened my eyes to the changes  our government needs to make.

Three Pillars of Photography

Aperture

Photo at F2.8:

Photo at F16 or higher:




















1. What part of the body should we closely relate aperture? The pupil in your eye.
2. Finish this sentence - the smaller the Aperture the bigger the f-stop, the higher the Aperture the smaller the f-stop.
3. In your own words tell me how aperture impacts Depth of Field? Depending on how big or small the f-number is, the depth of field will be blurry or sharp. The smaller aperture, (large f-number) will cause both the foreground and background to be sharp and focused. The bigger aperture (smaller f-number) will result in a blurry background.


Shutter Speed

High Shutter Speed:

Low Shutter Speed:

1. If you were assigned to shoot at Bulldogs and Hotdogs night, which was a few months ago, what shutter speeds do you think you would have to shoot at the following events that night I would like you to answer the question for the following two situations:

At the beginning while the sun was still up and the courtyard had reasonable good light...

a.) a booth in the middle of the yard near the Tree- Low Shutter Speed
b.) a food booth outside under one of the big red awnings - Low Shutter Speed
 c.) the Stars performance inside the gym- High Shutter Speed
d.) students dancing near the center of the courtyard- High Shutter Speed
e.) people streaming in from the front doors- High Shutter Speed
f.) the basketball booth where students are shooting basketballs at a hoop- High Shutter Speed

Towards the end when there is no sun and has gotten dark enough that you can't see from one end of the courtyard to the other...

a.) a booth in the middle of the yard near the Tree- Low Shutter speed

b.) a food booth outside under one of the big red awnings- Low Shutter speed

c.) the Stars performance inside the gym- High Shutter Speed

d.) students dancing near the center of the courtyard- Low Shutter speed

e.) people streaming in from the front doors- Low Shutter speed

f.) the basketball booth where students are shooting basketballs at a hoop- Low Shutter speed

2. List the three settings your camera has regarding setting shutter speed (these are found at #5 on the Shutter Speed website. Explain how each works - DO NOT COPY AND PASTE, use your own words.

• If you shoot in Aperture Priority mode the camera will automatically set the shutter speed, and you'll decide the lens aperture.
• When your in shutter priority mode the camera sets the aperture and you set the shutter speed
• You can set both the shutter speed and the aperture when the camera is set to manual mode

ISO

ISO 200:

ISO 3200 or 6400:












1. What are the advantages of shoot at a higher ISO at a sporting event like basketball or a night football game? It helps with the low lighting at night or outdoors, to minimize grain.
2. What suggestions did the author make about using a low ISO?
3. What suggestions did the author make about using a high ISO?



DSLR Camera
*Make sure you set the camera on MANUAL setting at the top

List the aperture settings available on this camera-
List the shutter speed settings available on this camera-
List the ISO settings available on this camera-

Photoshop-Prompt Shoot 1

METAL

SQUARE

HAPPY

BOWIE

Photo Manipulation and Ethics

Story
A. Summarize the main points of the story in 2-4 sentences.
The photographers and photo editors of the world are using Photoshop and touch ups to not only perfect an image, but to change the outcome of events. In the article you learn about a few circumstances where editing of photos was taken a little to far. For example, the media branch of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards released an image of an Iranian missile test launch in July 2008. The editing made it look like a complete success, when in reality one of the missiles failed.

B. Explain why you think this type of photo editing is unethical or acceptable.
I think this type of editing is unethical because it rewrites history. No one should be able to publish manipulated photos that make outcomes and end results different that what they really are.
Photos
A. Post the manipulation (this means get that image and post it on your blog) that you think was the most unethical, and explain why you think it was unethical. If you do not know what the word ethic or unethical means, look them up on the internet. It is very important you know what those two words mean.


 I think this photo was the most unethical because this event didn't happen at all. I could've, but there was no photographer present, so there should be no record.

B. Post the manipulation that you consider the least unethical, and explain why you think it is not as bad as others.

I think this photo is the least unethical because it's common touch up. The edits made are for superficial, aesthetically pleasing purposes only. It is kind of offensive to her, but it does no harm to the public.

Prompt Shoot

METAL

SQUARE

HAPPY

BOWIE

CE 4.2

1. How many students attend an AISD school? Page A1 "Austin district no longer...."
There are 83,591 students who attend AISD schools.
2. How (not how much) will Big Ben State Park potentially grow by 578 acres? Page B1 "Big Bend State Park..."
They are poised to swap land with an adjacent land owner.
3. What are the Pantone colors of the year? Page SA2 "New top Pantone colors..."
Blue and pink
4. Do you know anyone who colors? What do you think about this new trend? Page D1 "Coloring Craze"
I think this new trend could be very therapeutic to a lot of people. In fact, my aunt gave out these adult coloring books at Christmas and my mom has really benefitted from it.
5. Which of these would you like to attend this weekend if you could? WHY? Page D2 "The Long Weekend"
I would go to the Institutions Theater's "Beyonce's Wild West." I love Beyonce songs and this sounds like the perfect girl power sing along.

According to the article on page 1 "Scientists: 2015 is hottest year ever recorded" global warming isn't slowing down. Read the article and respond to the prompts below"

1. What is the major cause of global warming, according to the article?
Emissions of greenhouse gases is the main cause of global warming according to the article.
2. What are some consequences of higher global temperature?
Consequences of higher global temperatures include more water and flooding along the Mississippi River.
3. Do you worry about global warming? If I think about it hard enough it will stress me out. I can get obsessive about these types of things, so I try not to worry and just proceed with everyday life. That could be considered apart of the problem. Global warming is large scale. It's our world and it concerns man kind. This issue lays worry inside of everyone, it's choosing to acknowledge it that effect us.
4. What do you think can we do as a society to slow global warming?
I think it is destined to happen eventually, but we could vote for representatives and candidates who offer suggestions and solutions for global warming. 
5. Do you think global warming is major issue in our world today?
I think global warming is a major issue in our world today, however we don't really talk about it. Global warming is an unspoken concern for most people. But as a society we need to start thinking about new generations to come and try to put forth some kind of effort to delay it.

Photography Composition

Simplicity



The Rule of Thirds




Lines



Balance



Framing




Avoiding Mergers




Symmetry and Patterns (repetition)

Viewpoint

Create Depth




Cropping

CE 4.1

1. What are 5 key points listeners can expect to hear from President Obama when he gives his final State of the Union address tonight? Page A1 "The Presidency"
Listeners are expecting to hear a breakup note (directed towards Congress), a retrospective on his accomplishments, a social push (since the event will be on youtube live stream as well a snapchat), a tee up for Democrats, and a shoutout to the college student Austinites sitting with Michelle Obama and Joe Biden tonight.

2. How did actor Sean Penn play a role in the capture of drug lord "El Chapo"? Page A5 "Penn: 'nothin' to hide'   Sean Penn went to visit El Chapo after he was taken in by authorities.

3. Name 4 of David Bowie's most famous songs. Page A9 "True Genius" of pop music..."
"Heroes" was one of David Bowie's most famous songs.

4. What is the projected Powerball lottery payout for the lucky winner when the numbers are pulled Wednesday night? Page B1  The projected lottery payout is $1.4 billion.

5. Would you go to Star Wars Universe at Disney World (Why)? Page SA3 "Bring the galaxy closer...."  I would totally go. I think seeing all the phone cases and t-shirts would be fun. So would seeing the model of the Millennium Falcon.


Read the entire story about the Powerball Lottery on Page B1.

1. If you could buy lottery tickets (Powerball or otherwise), would you?
Yes, what is there to lose?
2. Do you know if your parents have bought tickets?
No, I don't they bought tickets. They should though.
3. Would you buy tickets for this record drawing?
Yes. I love high stakes situations where you could walk away with a lot. I think I'll do good in Vegas.
4. Think carefully, what would you do with the money if you were to win (be specific and write at least a paragraph with your plans)? If I won the big jackpot of over a billon dollars I would split it between my family and buy everyone the cool gifts I've always wanted to get them.  I would buy new cars to replace the old ones that my parents are about to ditch. Then I would put the rest away to pay for a nice out of state college. Some of the money leftover, I would invest in a good starter home or apartment. A few years later I would surprise my parents with a big anniversary trip to Hawaii.
5. What if you didn't win the big prize, but came in third and won $3 million dollars instead of over a billion, what would you do with the money now? I would eliminate the car and keep most of the money for family use only. My parents would get to remodel, redecorate, and put in a pool. I could start ordering and buying all the clothes I have in my shopping carts and give some to my friends too.

Lone Star Dispatch #3

News Story: Vibes for Vohl and recovery make a strong comeback

Summary- Science teacher, Nikki Vohl, was diagnosed with stage 3 brain cancer in 2014 an has beat the odds of her estimated time to live. With the support of kind students and Bowie staff, she has her own team, "Vibes for Vohl," to walk in Head for the Cure.

Who was quoted in the story? The people quoted in the story are Emily Kuster, Nikki Vohl, and Jessica Davis.

What quote was the strongest in your opinion? "I help her with grading and filing and and also help her by babysitting her kids," said Emily Kuster.

Did the lead sentence make you want to keep reading? Not really, it was more the illustration and the title that drew me in.

Was the conclusion a quote or a statement? Conclusion

Commentary Story: Growing panic for school safety

Summary- With all the recent acts of terrorism people are questioning wether we have the proper amounts of security. The safety of schools should be upped, so that school can remain a safe place for students to learn.

Who was quoted in the story? No quote

What quote was the strongest in your opinion? "Now people are overwhelmed by the constant throbbing question: Is anywhere safe anymore?"

Did the lead sentence make you want to keep reading? Yes, it drew me in as a reader.

Was the conclusion a quote or a statement? Conclusion

Student Life Story: Senior fights life-long disease with no sign of a cure

Summary- Senior Katy Jacobs was diagnosed at a young age with Type 1 Diabetes, which only 5% of the population has. She works through the disease and it's effects and has become a stronger person from it.

Who was quoted in the story? Katy Jacobs, Summer Hawkins, Bryn Williams, and Katy's father Gary Jacobs. 

What quote was the strongest in your opinion? "It might be a life threatening disease, but it has taught me many lessons that I am grateful for," Katy said.

Did the lead sentence make you want to keep reading? Yes, it was very intriguing.

Was the conclusion a quote or a statement? Quote

Entertainment Story: Starlight Theatre Company has a busy holiday season

Summary- The senior-directed children's shows toured to different Elementary schools and were a hit. Now the musical "Tarzan" is in full swing and has a rigorous rehearsal schedule.

Who was quoted in the story? Betsy Cornwell, Chloe Arevalo, Jackson Walker, Anna Seningen, Tasha Anslyn, and Michael Jefferson.

What quote was the strongest in your opinion? "It was really rewarding to see the kids so happy at out performances," said sophomore Tasha Anslyn.

Did the lead sentence make you want to keep reading? Yes

Was the conclusion a quote or a statement? Quote

Athletics Story: College bound turns into D1 bound

Summary- Seniors Kianna Ray and Amber Lotz are both student athletes who have been playing since they were young. Ray has committed to playing basketball at Texas Christian University and Lotz has committed to Houstin Baptist University.

Who was quoted in the story? Kianna Ray and Amber Lotz

What quote was the strongest in your opinion? "I've been playing all my life now and to know it has paid off feels great," Ray said.

Did the lead sentence make you want to keep reading? Yes

Was the conclusion a quote or a statement? Quote

In-Depth Story (p.5): Students celebrate holidays in different ways, but with similar spirit

Summary- Different students have different holiday traditions, but they all take the time to celebrate them with enthusiasm. The diverse holiday activities are recognized with acceptance.

Who was quoted in the story? Sam Searles, Remli, and Any Moe.

What quote was the strongest in your opinion? "To me, Christmas is all about appreciating your family," Moe said.

Did the lead sentence make you want to keep reading? Yes

Was the conclusion a quote or a statement? Conclusion

Photography

1. What is your favorite photo in the entire paper? Flips and Stunts
1A. Why is this your favorite? It was taken from a cool angle and it's full of school spirit.

2. What is your least favorite photo in the entire paper? Don't burst my bubble
2A. Why is this your least favorite? There wasn't as much going on and it was smaller.

3. If you were a photographer on staff, which event/photo assignment would you have liked to do for this issue? The theater rehearsals, after seeing my friend learn how to "fly" in there the other day, I think it'd be great to cover.

4. Overall, how would you rate the photography in this issue? What were the strong points and weak points. 9/10! There were a lot of big, exciting, and colorful photos which I love.

Story Idea: I think a good story would be the effect of the new "incentives" and how the students and staff perceive them. Good interviews with diverse opinions and insight would be really interesting.

Person for Feature Story: For a profile feature story I suggest Kelley Israel, one of the leads in the "Tarzan" musical next week. She was the only freshman cast in the big production. 

Welcome Back

Pictures of the year



I love this picture because if there is one thing I consistently did in 2015, it was watching Fallon. Jimmy Fallon has become really popular this past year and I love that he did his music skit with Adele!



I am a huge fan of president Obama and I think this photo shows how relatable and kind he is.



In 2015 there were some controversial things done in the Ukraine, mainly by the Russians, but this dog driving up to the border is so adorable.


Questions

1. What was the best song of 2015?
I think the best song of 2015 is anything off of One Direction's new album. The most common and upbeat song off the album is "Perfect," so that would be my top choice. One Direction is going on a one year hiatus which started after the album drop. Since then they have done New Years and Christmas performances as well as a few on talk shows.




2. What was the best movie of 2015?
I think the best movie of 2015 is "Mission Impossible Rogue Nation." I'm not an action movie fan and had never seen the other Mission Impossible movies before this movie. But it was so good I had to watch the rest on them! Tom Cruise is now on my top actors list for sure! Since seeing this movie I've watched some of his other movies available on Netflix.




3. What was the most important news story of the year?
The story of the year is the Same Sex Marriage Debate. It was probably the most discussed issue on my blog and consumed most of the Austin American Statesman's that we've read. Obama even tweeted about it, "Today is a big step in our march toward equality. Gay and lesbian couples now have the right to marry, just like anyone else. #LoveWins"
— President Obama (@POTUS) June 26, 2015



4. Who was the most important person of 2015?
I think the most important person of 2015 is Bernie Sanders. He is a wonderful presidential candidate with socialist values and he plans to demilitarize our police departments so that they no longer appear like "invading armies." Sanders also plans to take down Wall Street. "Will the folks on Wall Street like me? No. Will they begin to play by the rules if I'm President? You better believe it," Bernie said.




5. What was the biggest sports OR entertainment story OR sports/entertainment person of 2015? The biggest entertainment story of the year is Kim Kardashian's second baby "Saint West." He was born in early December and they have yet to release photos until they can be professionally done. Rumors have surfaced revealing that Kim and Kanye supposedly have been offered $2 million for the publishing of Saint West's first picture.




My Holiday

1. Tell me what is the one thing that happened on your holiday that you will remember? It can be a trip, a family visit, a present, something fun. 
Something memorable from this holiday was spending some quality time with my Aunt Katy. She's about 26 and lives in New York. I was really happy she came down for Christmas.

2. What are your resolutions for the 2016 year? 
My resolutions for the New Year are being more productive with my time at school so I can minimize homework and getting better grades.

3. What are you looking forward to in 2016?

I am looking forward to getting my leaners permit! I've been practicing a ton and now it can be legal and on a bigger road.