As I set in a crowded lecture hall last night marking the answers in my management 3000 test, it hit me. This would be the last time I have to fill in these ridiculous bubbles. I realized I was in the middle of my last college test.
I look back at my college career that ends in a week and remember the fun times, the occasional bad times, and what I have learned in my time at the University of Missouri.
I remember some of the more important advice that i received in the last three and a half years in Columbia.
One piece of advice I remember came from Greeley Kyle: "Don't try to hard to hit home runs because you usually strike out." I realize now the importance of this lesson. This lesson, like so many others, I learned the hard way when I was arrested for trying to get better shots in a story about a rollover accident on I-70. I ran across the highway after authorities disguised in jeans and T-shirt instructed me not to do so. I thought better shots awaited me on the other side of the highway but I could have gotten a great story if I stayed put. Instead, I spent the rest of that morning in a holding cell and lost a story. I had struck out.
The above story fits the mold of those bad experiences, but now I look back at it and laugh. I do the same with most of the other horror stories I have from reporting, and from pledging a fraternity.
There were also some great times including sporting events like, the basketball game against Kansas in 2009 and the Oklahoma game this year. I also made a ton of friends and enjoyed the little free time I had as a student. Unlike some, I will not pretend I did not party in my college days. In fact the ability to relax and enjoy my weekends is the only way I survived the challenging convergence reporting class. I made friends that will last a lifetime. This partying was only in moderation and did not interfere with any of my other obligations, which is exactly as it should be.
As a journalist, there have been a lot of excellent times too. I was courtside the Big 12 men's basketball tournament in Oklahoma City with 4 friends. I got be on the sidelines for the above mentioned Oklahoma game and interviewed an idol of mine in Chris Fowler. I did play-by-play for NCAA regional games for both soccer and softball. I traveled with the volleyball team to do play-by-play for them for three seasons. However, one of the best times I had reporting was covering a Moberly High School soccer game. The people were great and the game gave me a new appreciation for soccer.I also had an excellent experience reporting a news story in Mexico, Missouri. The story was about a dangerous train track that had two feet of clearance for the train on either side of the tracks. The people I interviewed were incredibly kind, and I spent an hour having a conversation with them. The people of Mexico, Missouri impressed me with their kindness once more when I covered the Miss Missouri pageant. The people of Mexico, Missouri are the nicest I have met anywhere.
I enjoyed my reporting experiences, my social experiences,and almost all my other experiences. My time at the University of Missouri will always be three and a half years of fond memories.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Troy Tulowitzki: The New Face of Denver Sports
The Rockies mega contract with Shortstop Troy Tulowitzki proved two things to Colorado fans: The Rockies are finally willing to spend money on a high quality player to win a title and Troy Tulowitzki is now the face of Denver sports. Colorado has searched for its main sports hero since John Elway retired after Super Bowl XXXIII.
Early this decade the main athlete in Colorado sports could be debated as Avalanche captain Joe Sakic led his team to a cup, Todd Helton had the Rockies on his back, and Carmelo Anthony resurrected the Nuggets franchise. All of these players were the face of their respective franchises, but none quite reached the status of the face of Denver.
Tulo has the personality, dedication, and style for the job. He grows a mullet and has "Party in the U.S.A as his walkup music. On the field, however, he is all business on the field. He is the best shortstop in baseball, after winning the golden glove and silver slugger awards this past season. He finished 5th in the MVP vote two years in a row. He hits for power, runs well, and has a cannon of an arm. He truly is a five tool player. He is leader.
Since the contract signing Rockies reporter Troy Renck's ever active twitter talked about Tulo's new plans now that he is here to stay. This includes starting his own charity organizations and moving to the city full time. All things that show he is now a Coloradoan at heart.
All Colorado fans have read the reports about him idolizing Cal Ripken Jr. and how he wanted to be like Cal playing for one franchise throughout his career. While he may not have Cal's durability, ( He already had several DL stints in his young career) his new contract guarantees that like Elway he will be in Denver for a long time.
Early this decade the main athlete in Colorado sports could be debated as Avalanche captain Joe Sakic led his team to a cup, Todd Helton had the Rockies on his back, and Carmelo Anthony resurrected the Nuggets franchise. All of these players were the face of their respective franchises, but none quite reached the status of the face of Denver.
Tulo has the personality, dedication, and style for the job. He grows a mullet and has "Party in the U.S.A as his walkup music. On the field, however, he is all business on the field. He is the best shortstop in baseball, after winning the golden glove and silver slugger awards this past season. He finished 5th in the MVP vote two years in a row. He hits for power, runs well, and has a cannon of an arm. He truly is a five tool player. He is leader.
Since the contract signing Rockies reporter Troy Renck's ever active twitter talked about Tulo's new plans now that he is here to stay. This includes starting his own charity organizations and moving to the city full time. All things that show he is now a Coloradoan at heart.
All Colorado fans have read the reports about him idolizing Cal Ripken Jr. and how he wanted to be like Cal playing for one franchise throughout his career. While he may not have Cal's durability, ( He already had several DL stints in his young career) his new contract guarantees that like Elway he will be in Denver for a long time.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
The $9 million man
I will never forget the first day of the first journalism class at the Missouri school of journalism. The first thing they tell all the hopeful, optimistic 18-year-olds is that the best starting salary these students with a dream can hope for is about $30,000.
I thought this entire speech had one motive: force those without the desire and dedication to perform journalism without financial incentive to quit. I pressed on, surviving weed out class after weed out class. I went from the insanely hard Convergence reporting class to the incredibly difficult broadcast 2 with only a week off in between.
Now just a month away from graduation, I wonder if I chose the right career path. Journalism requires so much work for so little money. It is stressful and demanding. Challenging, yet simple to those who excel at it.
This past weekend I watched a rerun of the world series of poker final table. Jonathan Duhamel, a professional poker from Canada became a 9 million dollar man with just over a weeks worth of actual work. Duhamel is just one year older than I am. He attended college with plans of earning a finance degree. He dropped out of school to focus on playing poker professionally. The decision obviously paid off.
I love playing cards, especially Texas Hold em. I have played cards since I was four with games including bridge, gin rummy, and poker. I now play Texas hold em as often as I can. I went to Vegas this summer and played in three tournaments, taking 5th place in two of them, cashing in one of them. The two tournaments I did not make money in, I was over a 90% favorite when I sent all my chips into the pot.
With just one cash in three tournaments, I made money. I have calculated that I generally earn money in one out of every three tournaments. I am the reigning champion at my fraternity house and believe that with a little luck and some good plays I could do what Duhamel did and become a millionaire.
I am torn. My family spent thousands of dollars to send me to school here to obtain a degree and get a job in the field of sports journalism. However, there is little money in this field and even fewer jobs. Looking at the job landscape there is vast array of unpaid internships, but no careers. Maybe when I leave school next month is the perfect time in my life to take the ultimate gamble and try make my living playing poker.
I thought this entire speech had one motive: force those without the desire and dedication to perform journalism without financial incentive to quit. I pressed on, surviving weed out class after weed out class. I went from the insanely hard Convergence reporting class to the incredibly difficult broadcast 2 with only a week off in between.
Now just a month away from graduation, I wonder if I chose the right career path. Journalism requires so much work for so little money. It is stressful and demanding. Challenging, yet simple to those who excel at it.
This past weekend I watched a rerun of the world series of poker final table. Jonathan Duhamel, a professional poker from Canada became a 9 million dollar man with just over a weeks worth of actual work. Duhamel is just one year older than I am. He attended college with plans of earning a finance degree. He dropped out of school to focus on playing poker professionally. The decision obviously paid off.
I love playing cards, especially Texas Hold em. I have played cards since I was four with games including bridge, gin rummy, and poker. I now play Texas hold em as often as I can. I went to Vegas this summer and played in three tournaments, taking 5th place in two of them, cashing in one of them. The two tournaments I did not make money in, I was over a 90% favorite when I sent all my chips into the pot.
With just one cash in three tournaments, I made money. I have calculated that I generally earn money in one out of every three tournaments. I am the reigning champion at my fraternity house and believe that with a little luck and some good plays I could do what Duhamel did and become a millionaire.
I am torn. My family spent thousands of dollars to send me to school here to obtain a degree and get a job in the field of sports journalism. However, there is little money in this field and even fewer jobs. Looking at the job landscape there is vast array of unpaid internships, but no careers. Maybe when I leave school next month is the perfect time in my life to take the ultimate gamble and try make my living playing poker.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Pick the right people to criticize
In the wake of Missouri's disappointing loss to Texas Tech, I hear complaints and criticisms of head coach Gary Pinkel that lack validity and seem to be uttered out of frustration than logic. I have heard numerous friends say that Pinkel should be removed as head coach when nothing could be further from the truth.
Just two weeks ago Pinkel led the Tigers to their biggest home win ever. The win over Oklahoma was monumental. Athletic Director, Mike Alden, says that the victory over the Sooner will bring millions of dollars into the school and the program. Just two weeks ago the same fans that sang Pinkel's praises now doubt the man.
In Pinkel's ten years as head coach, the Tigers won their two Big 12 North championships. Something they had never done prior. Pinkel helped Mizzou beat Nebraska for the first time in about 30 years. The Tigers have six straight winning seasons and finished above .500 in 7 out of their last 8 seasons. They have been to bowl games in each of the past five seasons and that trend will continue this year. The Tigers ranked #1 in the A.P. poll for the first time ever in 2007. The most recent graduating class of gridiron Tigers stands in history as the winningest graduating class in Mizzou history, an accomplishment that could be eclipsed by this year's class.
Recruiting is another one of Pinkel's strengths. He brought in the school's first five star recruit, Blaine Gabbert. He bcontinues bring talented players who can play at the college level and beyond. Before Pinkel arrived at Mizzou, the school had sent 28 players to the NFL in about 50 years. In just 10 years, Pinkel has sent 17 Tigers to the pros. He continues to bring in talented players like Aldon Smith who is a legitimate first round prospect. Tigers have been drafted in the first round of the NFL draft and continue to excel in the pros.
Many criticize Pinkel's offensive scheme of running the spread offense on every play. While this may not be a productive red zone strategy, the Tiger offense has been among the most prolific in the entire NCAA for the past five years. the recent struggles stem play calling which falls on the Offensive Coordinator, Dave Yost, not Pinkel.
Tiger football has earned more attention from the national media, which benefits the school. College Gameday has featured the Tigers in four games in the last four years, including their first trip to Columbia for the Oklahoma game. The Tigers are a frequent topic on ESPN. They were just one win away from a birth in the National Championship in 2007. Following this incredible run enrollment increased at the Univeristy of Missouri making the school more money. Therefore, Pinkel is a good financial choice for the Tigers and the University itself.
Just two weeks ago Pinkel led the Tigers to their biggest home win ever. The win over Oklahoma was monumental. Athletic Director, Mike Alden, says that the victory over the Sooner will bring millions of dollars into the school and the program. Just two weeks ago the same fans that sang Pinkel's praises now doubt the man.
In Pinkel's ten years as head coach, the Tigers won their two Big 12 North championships. Something they had never done prior. Pinkel helped Mizzou beat Nebraska for the first time in about 30 years. The Tigers have six straight winning seasons and finished above .500 in 7 out of their last 8 seasons. They have been to bowl games in each of the past five seasons and that trend will continue this year. The Tigers ranked #1 in the A.P. poll for the first time ever in 2007. The most recent graduating class of gridiron Tigers stands in history as the winningest graduating class in Mizzou history, an accomplishment that could be eclipsed by this year's class.
Recruiting is another one of Pinkel's strengths. He brought in the school's first five star recruit, Blaine Gabbert. He bcontinues bring talented players who can play at the college level and beyond. Before Pinkel arrived at Mizzou, the school had sent 28 players to the NFL in about 50 years. In just 10 years, Pinkel has sent 17 Tigers to the pros. He continues to bring in talented players like Aldon Smith who is a legitimate first round prospect. Tigers have been drafted in the first round of the NFL draft and continue to excel in the pros.
Many criticize Pinkel's offensive scheme of running the spread offense on every play. While this may not be a productive red zone strategy, the Tiger offense has been among the most prolific in the entire NCAA for the past five years. the recent struggles stem play calling which falls on the Offensive Coordinator, Dave Yost, not Pinkel.
Tiger football has earned more attention from the national media, which benefits the school. College Gameday has featured the Tigers in four games in the last four years, including their first trip to Columbia for the Oklahoma game. The Tigers are a frequent topic on ESPN. They were just one win away from a birth in the National Championship in 2007. Following this incredible run enrollment increased at the Univeristy of Missouri making the school more money. Therefore, Pinkel is a good financial choice for the Tigers and the University itself.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Fire McMadman
It is tough to believe that just over a year ago the Denver Broncos took a 6-0 record into their bye week. The city of Denver was filled with optimism and glee. The faith in new Head Coach Josh McDaniels reached an all time high. Even his skeptics began believing that the youngster could be one of the best coaching finds ever.
However, in the past year Bronco maniacs have learned that this marvelous start fits the description of a fluke, rather than brilliant scheming by the 33- year-old rookie coach. Now just 58 weeks later, the Broncos take a 2-6 record into the bye. One of those losses include a 59-14 beating suffered at the hands of the hated rival Oakland Raiders. Since that 6-0 start the team's record stands at an appalling 4-14.
When McDaniels took the helm from legendary coach Mike Shannahan, the Broncos had a pro bowl Quarterback, and a pro bowl wide receiver. The had recently had some great draft classes including Elvis Dumervil, Peyton Hillis and Ryan Clady. Now less than 2 years into the McDaniels regime, The pro bowl quarterback, Jay Cutler, was traded. While his numbers may be fairly bad with the Bears, his numbers in Mike Shannahan's offense were excellent. The Pro Bowl wide Receiver, Brandon Marshall, was also dealt to the Dolphins. Marshall had 3 consecutive 100 catch, 1,000 yard seasons with the Broncos, but McDaniels could not manage Marshall's personality that functioned famously with Cutler and Shannahan. Hillis led the Broncos in rushing the season before McDaniels arrived. He fit the mold of the Shannahan running game that produces perennial 1,000 yard rushers. Now Hillis leads the Browns in rushing and has almost the same amount of yards rushing per game as the entire Broncos team. Dumervil is injured and will not play for the rest of the season. Nothing McDaniels can do about that one, but since McDaniels took the reigns the leading rusher, passer, and receiver are all helping teams with better records this season.
The running game that put up prolific numbers during the Shannahan era now ranks last in the league. McDaniels' offense resembles a college offense almost Gary Pinkel's shotgun spread, with as little running as possible. While his pass first offense has the Broncos ranking in the top 10 in yards per game. the team ranks 22nd in points per game. Yardage totals have little impact if a team can't score. The Broncos have had success stopping the run but still surrender about 28 points each game, ranking them 28th in team defense.
The Broncos low point totals and high opponent totals add up to failure. McDaniels does not have the ability to control a team and seems to be a child on a power trip. He is not the right man for the job and the Broncos need a change at coach because it is clear that the issues with the team stem more from scheme and player relations not the roster itself. Fire McMadman immediatly
However, in the past year Bronco maniacs have learned that this marvelous start fits the description of a fluke, rather than brilliant scheming by the 33- year-old rookie coach. Now just 58 weeks later, the Broncos take a 2-6 record into the bye. One of those losses include a 59-14 beating suffered at the hands of the hated rival Oakland Raiders. Since that 6-0 start the team's record stands at an appalling 4-14.
When McDaniels took the helm from legendary coach Mike Shannahan, the Broncos had a pro bowl Quarterback, and a pro bowl wide receiver. The had recently had some great draft classes including Elvis Dumervil, Peyton Hillis and Ryan Clady. Now less than 2 years into the McDaniels regime, The pro bowl quarterback, Jay Cutler, was traded. While his numbers may be fairly bad with the Bears, his numbers in Mike Shannahan's offense were excellent. The Pro Bowl wide Receiver, Brandon Marshall, was also dealt to the Dolphins. Marshall had 3 consecutive 100 catch, 1,000 yard seasons with the Broncos, but McDaniels could not manage Marshall's personality that functioned famously with Cutler and Shannahan. Hillis led the Broncos in rushing the season before McDaniels arrived. He fit the mold of the Shannahan running game that produces perennial 1,000 yard rushers. Now Hillis leads the Browns in rushing and has almost the same amount of yards rushing per game as the entire Broncos team. Dumervil is injured and will not play for the rest of the season. Nothing McDaniels can do about that one, but since McDaniels took the reigns the leading rusher, passer, and receiver are all helping teams with better records this season.
The running game that put up prolific numbers during the Shannahan era now ranks last in the league. McDaniels' offense resembles a college offense almost Gary Pinkel's shotgun spread, with as little running as possible. While his pass first offense has the Broncos ranking in the top 10 in yards per game. the team ranks 22nd in points per game. Yardage totals have little impact if a team can't score. The Broncos have had success stopping the run but still surrender about 28 points each game, ranking them 28th in team defense.
The Broncos low point totals and high opponent totals add up to failure. McDaniels does not have the ability to control a team and seems to be a child on a power trip. He is not the right man for the job and the Broncos need a change at coach because it is clear that the issues with the team stem more from scheme and player relations not the roster itself. Fire McMadman immediatly
Thursday, October 28, 2010
The Best Weekend Ever
Mizzou celebrated its 99th homecoming last weekend but the weekend brought a lot more excitement than the normal Greek house decorations, and skits. For the first time ever ESPN's College Gameday visited Columbia. For years I have watched this popular pregame show religiously. As soon as I learned that Gameday was coming to Mizzou, I pleaded KOMU to let me cover it. Chris Gervino granted my wish. He Instructed me to do a package on the behind the scenes work of the show.
I could barely contain my excitement last Friday when I interviewed the entire Gameday crew. They answered my questions amazingly and are probably the best interview subjects I have worked with, especially compared to Gary Pinkel monotonous soundbites. I filmed the majority of my package on Friday and had nothing to shoot during the actual show. However, I woke up early on Saturday to watch the show from the press area. I arrived at 7:30 to the packed show and watched my second live College Gameday. Freshman year, when Mizzou battled Oklahoma in the Big 12 championship with the Tigers one win away from a birth in the national championship game., I drove to San Antonio and watched Gameday from the steps of the Alamo. However, this Gameday experience exceeded the first. I watched the majority of my favorite show the photo deck and watched as Lee Corso dawned the Oklahoma mascot a head. A decision he would later regret.
The best part of the experience was chatting with Chris Fowler. I have idolized Fowler because he lives my dream. He went from being a kid from Colorado with a dream to anchoring one of the most popular sports shows in the country. I asked him how he reached this level. He responded by encouraging me to make sure that I do not settle on my first job out of college. This experience can only be described as total awesomeness.
My great weekend continued when I covered the game itself against Oklahoma. The crowd was unlike anything I have ever seen. 71,000 people, shoulder to shoulder hungry for a win; hungry to end the years of faltering in big games, and faltering against Oklahoma.
The 71,00 fans cheered their Tigers as they pulled off the biggest upset in school history and if they conquer the Cornhuskers Saturday they will have a great chance of restoring the magic of that 2007 squad. The most challanging part of the weekend was not rejoicing when the Tigers won. I tried to contain my excitement but know I was grinning like I had just won something. Inside I jumped for joy and rushed into the center of the field to congratulate the players. However, I had to remain somewhat professional. The emotion I felt after that win and after that weekend is the way I wish I felt everyday when I wake up in the morning. I felt as good as anyone could possible feel. I had the best weekend ever.
I could barely contain my excitement last Friday when I interviewed the entire Gameday crew. They answered my questions amazingly and are probably the best interview subjects I have worked with, especially compared to Gary Pinkel monotonous soundbites. I filmed the majority of my package on Friday and had nothing to shoot during the actual show. However, I woke up early on Saturday to watch the show from the press area. I arrived at 7:30 to the packed show and watched my second live College Gameday. Freshman year, when Mizzou battled Oklahoma in the Big 12 championship with the Tigers one win away from a birth in the national championship game., I drove to San Antonio and watched Gameday from the steps of the Alamo. However, this Gameday experience exceeded the first. I watched the majority of my favorite show the photo deck and watched as Lee Corso dawned the Oklahoma mascot a head. A decision he would later regret.
The best part of the experience was chatting with Chris Fowler. I have idolized Fowler because he lives my dream. He went from being a kid from Colorado with a dream to anchoring one of the most popular sports shows in the country. I asked him how he reached this level. He responded by encouraging me to make sure that I do not settle on my first job out of college. This experience can only be described as total awesomeness.
My great weekend continued when I covered the game itself against Oklahoma. The crowd was unlike anything I have ever seen. 71,000 people, shoulder to shoulder hungry for a win; hungry to end the years of faltering in big games, and faltering against Oklahoma.
The 71,00 fans cheered their Tigers as they pulled off the biggest upset in school history and if they conquer the Cornhuskers Saturday they will have a great chance of restoring the magic of that 2007 squad. The most challanging part of the weekend was not rejoicing when the Tigers won. I tried to contain my excitement but know I was grinning like I had just won something. Inside I jumped for joy and rushed into the center of the field to congratulate the players. However, I had to remain somewhat professional. The emotion I felt after that win and after that weekend is the way I wish I felt everyday when I wake up in the morning. I felt as good as anyone could possible feel. I had the best weekend ever.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
The Oversensative Society
Last night I was watching my fraternity's flag football game when controversy reared its ugly head. My fraternity battled another for the ultimate gridiron glory: the intermural flag football championship. Leading 6-0, one of our receivers made a spectacularly athletic catch in the end zone. However, the referee decided that he was out of bounds and the catch and the score was all for naught. One of the players said that was an awful call and the end result of this opinionated statement was the team's second unsportsmanlike conduct and resulted in a forced forfeit of the football championship. The first unsportsmanlike conduct occurred when the player who scored the first touchdown spiked the ball in excitement of the big touchdown.
Despite my rooting interest, this disqualification raises interesting questions. When did we as a society become so wimpy that athletic competitions are decided by sportsmanship and not athletic prowess. When did the feelings of the players and referees involved become more important than the competition itself. Our society now believes we should give every kid a trophy for merely participating in sports. We believe in no cut policies for high school sports teams. We live in the days when high school students can letter in speech and debate, band, theater and even student council. Let's say everyone wins who shows up and plays by the rules. These ideologies defeat the purpose of sports.
I understand the necessity of sportsmanship rules in sports, but preventing players from celebrating and spiking a football after a big play hurts nobody. Questioning a referees potentially bad call is well within the rights of players. In fact the referees being fallible is the reason the NFL and NCAA implemented instant replay. I'm obviously not suggesting the implementation of instant replay in flag football, but people should be allowed to complain if they believe a referee is making a mistake. The feelings of the referees should be the last thing considered in athletic competition. Immediately after Jim Joyce made an awful call costing Armando Galarraga a perfect game, a study was released saying he was the best umpire in baseball. I suspect this survey was doctored to boost Joyce's self esteem.
We need to return to the days when people were rewarded with trophies for merit, not for participation. We need to go back to the days when varsity athletes were the only ones rewarded with letters. We need to return to the days when referees were heckled for bad calls and players won games based on who had the highest score and not who played the nicest.
Despite my rooting interest, this disqualification raises interesting questions. When did we as a society become so wimpy that athletic competitions are decided by sportsmanship and not athletic prowess. When did the feelings of the players and referees involved become more important than the competition itself. Our society now believes we should give every kid a trophy for merely participating in sports. We believe in no cut policies for high school sports teams. We live in the days when high school students can letter in speech and debate, band, theater and even student council. Let's say everyone wins who shows up and plays by the rules. These ideologies defeat the purpose of sports.
I understand the necessity of sportsmanship rules in sports, but preventing players from celebrating and spiking a football after a big play hurts nobody. Questioning a referees potentially bad call is well within the rights of players. In fact the referees being fallible is the reason the NFL and NCAA implemented instant replay. I'm obviously not suggesting the implementation of instant replay in flag football, but people should be allowed to complain if they believe a referee is making a mistake. The feelings of the referees should be the last thing considered in athletic competition. Immediately after Jim Joyce made an awful call costing Armando Galarraga a perfect game, a study was released saying he was the best umpire in baseball. I suspect this survey was doctored to boost Joyce's self esteem.
We need to return to the days when people were rewarded with trophies for merit, not for participation. We need to go back to the days when varsity athletes were the only ones rewarded with letters. We need to return to the days when referees were heckled for bad calls and players won games based on who had the highest score and not who played the nicest.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
The Real World is Coming
In just a two months I will graduate from the University of Missouri. This should be an exciting time, but i am filled with nervousness and anxiety. The bad economy has limited the number of jobs available and with the constantly changing journalistic atmosphere I begin to worry how the careers and the job market will change even after I land a job.
After failing to land a job or internship, I am fearful that I will not find a job in my desired field. When i finally master Avid newscutter, I hear that most newsrooms use Final Cut pro, making my years of training in Avid less useful. If I cannot find a job what will I do for a living? I am good at playing poker but can i really be a professional poker player.
Despite the above doubt, i remain optimistic that I will be able to find a job. I have years of experience of my desired field of sports play-by-play in a variety of sports including volleyball, wrestling, and gymnastics. These sports help me because they are sports that not a lot of people have experience announcing. I am a great sports producer and as earlier mentioned, I am very good with avid. I am working to better my anchoring skills.
Also my multimedia reporting experience gives me a wider range of competencies than most applicants. I know audio and photo editing software. I have experience with web design and writing for the web. I also feel like my reporting skills are strong enough, even though that is not a job I wish to pursue.
The future is in doubt. I have no idea where I will be 3 months from now. This is a scary and exciting new world that I am ready to enter into.
After failing to land a job or internship, I am fearful that I will not find a job in my desired field. When i finally master Avid newscutter, I hear that most newsrooms use Final Cut pro, making my years of training in Avid less useful. If I cannot find a job what will I do for a living? I am good at playing poker but can i really be a professional poker player.
Despite the above doubt, i remain optimistic that I will be able to find a job. I have years of experience of my desired field of sports play-by-play in a variety of sports including volleyball, wrestling, and gymnastics. These sports help me because they are sports that not a lot of people have experience announcing. I am a great sports producer and as earlier mentioned, I am very good with avid. I am working to better my anchoring skills.
Also my multimedia reporting experience gives me a wider range of competencies than most applicants. I know audio and photo editing software. I have experience with web design and writing for the web. I also feel like my reporting skills are strong enough, even though that is not a job I wish to pursue.
The future is in doubt. I have no idea where I will be 3 months from now. This is a scary and exciting new world that I am ready to enter into.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
NASCAR Is Not a Sport
NASCAR's popularity has always bewildered me. According to USA Today, ESPN's broadcasts of NASCAR races have declined in popularity this year, but still attract a larger audience then the wonderful sport of Hockey. My problem with NASCAR is that it is not a sport.
When watching the season premiere of South Park last night, I laughed because it made fun of NASCAR fans as poor and stupid. While I am not as brazen to lump all NASCAR fans into these two categories, I am unable to understand the excitement of watching cars drive in circles for 4 hours.
NASCAR is dreadfully dull. It is a marathon of left turns that only requires a person of two feet and two hands to operate the car. If I wanted to watch cars drive fast, I could set up a lawn chair on the median of 1-70. There would be new cars each time and an equal number of crashes.
The sport itself requires no athletic ability. It does require the ability to withstand a hot car for hours and turn left at high speed. However, I contend that anybody who has driven a multiple state road trip during the summer in a car with no air conditioning is qualified to be a NASCAR driver. The most athletic guys in the alleged sport are the pit crews, who perform maintenance on these cars in seconds, and really decide who wins and who loses.
While people complain about poker not being a sport, it takes a great deal more intellect then the left turn extravaganza, and a t least some knowledge of how to play the game. Anyone who passes a driver's test has the ability to be a NASCAR driver, while navigating the turns may take some practice, any person could gain the ability to excel in the sport provided they had a proper practice facility.
NASCAR requires little skill and athleticism. It is nothing more than left turns for 4 hours and anyone can do it. It is uninteresting and not a sport.
When watching the season premiere of South Park last night, I laughed because it made fun of NASCAR fans as poor and stupid. While I am not as brazen to lump all NASCAR fans into these two categories, I am unable to understand the excitement of watching cars drive in circles for 4 hours.
NASCAR is dreadfully dull. It is a marathon of left turns that only requires a person of two feet and two hands to operate the car. If I wanted to watch cars drive fast, I could set up a lawn chair on the median of 1-70. There would be new cars each time and an equal number of crashes.
The sport itself requires no athletic ability. It does require the ability to withstand a hot car for hours and turn left at high speed. However, I contend that anybody who has driven a multiple state road trip during the summer in a car with no air conditioning is qualified to be a NASCAR driver. The most athletic guys in the alleged sport are the pit crews, who perform maintenance on these cars in seconds, and really decide who wins and who loses.
While people complain about poker not being a sport, it takes a great deal more intellect then the left turn extravaganza, and a t least some knowledge of how to play the game. Anyone who passes a driver's test has the ability to be a NASCAR driver, while navigating the turns may take some practice, any person could gain the ability to excel in the sport provided they had a proper practice facility.
NASCAR requires little skill and athleticism. It is nothing more than left turns for 4 hours and anyone can do it. It is uninteresting and not a sport.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Changes in Society: the Evolution of Batman
I'm not a big superhero or comic book fan, but growing I was always fascinated by the caped crusader. Many hours of my childhood were spent watching the 1960s Batman TV series. As I have aged, I maintained my appreciation of the campy classics, while enjoying the new darker version of the dark knight.
Batman's awesomeness stems from his lack of super powers. He is not impervious to bullets or pain. He cannot shoot webs from his hand, or sprout metal claws from his hands. He is not super strong or super fast. He is just a brilliant a guy who uses his wit and resourcefulness to defeat human enemies that do not have any super powers either. It is this realism that makes him great. He is just a rich man who wanted to end crime in a dangerous community.
While all of the above characteristics have remained true throughout the legend of Batman, his portrayal has changed from the dark comics, to the humorous 60s classic, to the dark Tim Burton 90s, to the heroic, high grossing current version. All of these versions have been incredibly popular and it raises the question, why has the image of Batman needed to change in order to maintain his popularity.
We begin by looking at the culture when the 60s Batman was introduced to audiences. The year is 1965. The United States is involved in a war it probably should have avoided. The hippie movement conquered the country. Women and African Americans battled vigorously for more rights. Batman became one of the top 10 shows in the country. The show featured an enjoyable half hour of entertainment for the entire family and dead pan comedic delivery from Adam West, as Batman.
I theorize that this comedic campy version was created for two reasons. The first reason to design a show like this is to appeal to more viewers. By bridging the generational gap, this show attracted more viewers. It also faced much less competition in the market since there were far fewer stations than today.The other reason this version appealed to 60s audiences was that provided a comedic and entertaining distraction from the problems in daily life.
The Tim Burton Batman is the darkest portrayal of the Dark Knight. He is shut away from the world, angry, and alone. Demons and past traumas haunted the Batman of the 90s making him a tortured soul, fighting criminals for vengeance in the name of his parents. This Batman ended the Caped Crusader's 20 year absence from mainstream media. The 1989 movie made $250 million in America and revived Batman's presence as the most popular super hero in the country. However, each subsequent sequel was less appreciated. This darkest Knight succeeded mainly due to great cast, but comparatively less enjoyable plots than other screen adaptations.
Now to the current Batman. This Batman was troubled youth who changed his life and is now ready to face his parents death and save a city in turmoil. The Dark Knight's popularity was unprecedented especially in the sequel with the same name. In this one Batman enjoys his billionaire lifestyle by day and beats up the bad guys by night. He is clearly the hero like West in the 60s and a seemingly cool guy who is forced to battle the most diabolical version of the Joker.
It is important to examine some of the similarities in the world occurring now and in the 60s. Once again we are in war that we probably should have avoided. The country is an economic struggle that causes the need for distraction. The question arises: Is society ready for a campy Batman. The money the Dark Knight made says no. However, societies problems and this loyal fan say yes.
Batman's awesomeness stems from his lack of super powers. He is not impervious to bullets or pain. He cannot shoot webs from his hand, or sprout metal claws from his hands. He is not super strong or super fast. He is just a brilliant a guy who uses his wit and resourcefulness to defeat human enemies that do not have any super powers either. It is this realism that makes him great. He is just a rich man who wanted to end crime in a dangerous community.
While all of the above characteristics have remained true throughout the legend of Batman, his portrayal has changed from the dark comics, to the humorous 60s classic, to the dark Tim Burton 90s, to the heroic, high grossing current version. All of these versions have been incredibly popular and it raises the question, why has the image of Batman needed to change in order to maintain his popularity.
We begin by looking at the culture when the 60s Batman was introduced to audiences. The year is 1965. The United States is involved in a war it probably should have avoided. The hippie movement conquered the country. Women and African Americans battled vigorously for more rights. Batman became one of the top 10 shows in the country. The show featured an enjoyable half hour of entertainment for the entire family and dead pan comedic delivery from Adam West, as Batman.
I theorize that this comedic campy version was created for two reasons. The first reason to design a show like this is to appeal to more viewers. By bridging the generational gap, this show attracted more viewers. It also faced much less competition in the market since there were far fewer stations than today.The other reason this version appealed to 60s audiences was that provided a comedic and entertaining distraction from the problems in daily life.
The Tim Burton Batman is the darkest portrayal of the Dark Knight. He is shut away from the world, angry, and alone. Demons and past traumas haunted the Batman of the 90s making him a tortured soul, fighting criminals for vengeance in the name of his parents. This Batman ended the Caped Crusader's 20 year absence from mainstream media. The 1989 movie made $250 million in America and revived Batman's presence as the most popular super hero in the country. However, each subsequent sequel was less appreciated. This darkest Knight succeeded mainly due to great cast, but comparatively less enjoyable plots than other screen adaptations.
Now to the current Batman. This Batman was troubled youth who changed his life and is now ready to face his parents death and save a city in turmoil. The Dark Knight's popularity was unprecedented especially in the sequel with the same name. In this one Batman enjoys his billionaire lifestyle by day and beats up the bad guys by night. He is clearly the hero like West in the 60s and a seemingly cool guy who is forced to battle the most diabolical version of the Joker.
It is important to examine some of the similarities in the world occurring now and in the 60s. Once again we are in war that we probably should have avoided. The country is an economic struggle that causes the need for distraction. The question arises: Is society ready for a campy Batman. The money the Dark Knight made says no. However, societies problems and this loyal fan say yes.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
New Experiences
When a friend invited me to see rap battle last Friday night, I agreed but had no idea what to expect. What I witnessed was battle of quick wits that entertained a large audience of over 50 on Stankowski field.
The hosts of the event were a group known as No Coast raps 5 guys with interesting named (pardon me for forgetting) and even more interesting looks. They have a blog on Google and even though I watched someone film the entire event, it has not been posted on this blog. In fact they have posted nothing since April. However, they endorse their competitors and allow fans to download a mix tape containing raps from many of the rappers who battled Friday night.
The contestants themselves were surprising in appearance to. They were mostly white college kids who seemed to idolize Eminem. They had the sideways tilted baseball cap, saggy pants, and ear rings. The organizers structured the event effectively. Two rappers entered a circle of enthusiasts. A coin toss decided which one would throw out the first insult. The duo of rappers took turns insulting each other in rhyme and rythym. Each contestant getting 5 minutes to exploit the others short comings. There were three rounds and the No Coast heads judged the competition by democratic vote.
There is no denying the talent of the people in this competition.It takes a particular skill set to excel in the unique venture of battle rapping, including a quick wit, creativity, public speaking skills, humor, and the ability to command a crowd. The ability to remove the censor that tells us not to say that about people is also crucial in rap battle along with the security in the self to brush off the insults flying rapidly.
This illustrates the importance of being open to new experiences. This is something I have tried to live my life by. I love trying new foods like yak steak, and ostrich burgers, as well as new events like skydiving. Making life an adventure is the best way to live.
I went into this rap battle excited to experience a new performance culture, but I left with a new appreciation for the skills and entertainment value of the new competition and art form that is battle rapping.
The hosts of the event were a group known as No Coast raps 5 guys with interesting named (pardon me for forgetting) and even more interesting looks. They have a blog on Google and even though I watched someone film the entire event, it has not been posted on this blog. In fact they have posted nothing since April. However, they endorse their competitors and allow fans to download a mix tape containing raps from many of the rappers who battled Friday night.
The contestants themselves were surprising in appearance to. They were mostly white college kids who seemed to idolize Eminem. They had the sideways tilted baseball cap, saggy pants, and ear rings. The organizers structured the event effectively. Two rappers entered a circle of enthusiasts. A coin toss decided which one would throw out the first insult. The duo of rappers took turns insulting each other in rhyme and rythym. Each contestant getting 5 minutes to exploit the others short comings. There were three rounds and the No Coast heads judged the competition by democratic vote.
There is no denying the talent of the people in this competition.It takes a particular skill set to excel in the unique venture of battle rapping, including a quick wit, creativity, public speaking skills, humor, and the ability to command a crowd. The ability to remove the censor that tells us not to say that about people is also crucial in rap battle along with the security in the self to brush off the insults flying rapidly.
This illustrates the importance of being open to new experiences. This is something I have tried to live my life by. I love trying new foods like yak steak, and ostrich burgers, as well as new events like skydiving. Making life an adventure is the best way to live.
I went into this rap battle excited to experience a new performance culture, but I left with a new appreciation for the skills and entertainment value of the new competition and art form that is battle rapping.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Why Bud Selig Has been terrible for Major League Baseball
Bud Selig became commissioner of Major League Baseball and since he has been in office the grand history of America's past time has tainted by corruption and greed.
In Selig's defense the game has made more money in his time as commissioner and more fans attend games, however, the means by which Selig accomplished these feats are dubious in nature. He is also popular among the owners of the league. Selig also added the wild card playoff round, which in my opinion makes the postseason and regular season more exciting. According to wikipedia, "Jerome Holtzman, Major League Baseball's official historian from 1999 until his passing in 2008, believed that Selig was the best commissioner in baseball history."
However, I disagree with Holztman. One reason Holtzman believes this is that his paychecks as the official historian were signed by Selig. I would say that my boss was the best ever in his position too, if that person was still signing my paychecks.
The first problem that arose during Selig's ongoing tenure as commissioner was the strike of 1994 that prevented the playing of the fall classic. This was the first time in 90 years that the world series was not played. While it may have been unavoidable Selig was unable to prevent the strike and was unable to end it in a time that allowed for post season play.
This era in baseball history will always be known as the steroid era. The best home run hitters in the past 20 years have all been linked to steroids. Many (including myself) believe Selig endorsed this steroid use, until players began being caught using these banned substances.
In an effort to remove steroids from baseball Selig sent George Mitchell to investigate the use of steroids. Mitchell gave his now famous Mitchell report on December 13th, 2007. It named numerous players including sure fire hall of famer Roger Clemens. However, the thing that is commonly overlooked with the Mitchell Report is that Mitchell is a part owner of the Boston Red Sox and has a stake in the team's success. Suspiciously no current Red Sox players were named in the report.
Selig also allowed the all star game to end in a tie one year. allowing the game to end in a tie was a giant middle finger to the fans that had watched the entire spectacle. Now because of that he attached meaning to a meaningless exhibition game by ruling that the league that wins the all star game has home field advantage for the world series. Now teams that have no chance to reach the world series have at least one player in a game to decide home field advantage. This system is flawed.
Selig has lost a world series, allowed an inconclusive all-star game and presided over the corrupt steroid era in baseball. Not only did he preside over this corruption, nut he made himself even richer off of it, making $14.5 million a year in his position. Like Congressman Cliff Stearns I am calling for Bud Selig to step down as commissioner before the reputation of the game is tarnished any further.
In Selig's defense the game has made more money in his time as commissioner and more fans attend games, however, the means by which Selig accomplished these feats are dubious in nature. He is also popular among the owners of the league. Selig also added the wild card playoff round, which in my opinion makes the postseason and regular season more exciting. According to wikipedia, "Jerome Holtzman, Major League Baseball's official historian from 1999 until his passing in 2008, believed that Selig was the best commissioner in baseball history."
However, I disagree with Holztman. One reason Holtzman believes this is that his paychecks as the official historian were signed by Selig. I would say that my boss was the best ever in his position too, if that person was still signing my paychecks.
The first problem that arose during Selig's ongoing tenure as commissioner was the strike of 1994 that prevented the playing of the fall classic. This was the first time in 90 years that the world series was not played. While it may have been unavoidable Selig was unable to prevent the strike and was unable to end it in a time that allowed for post season play.
This era in baseball history will always be known as the steroid era. The best home run hitters in the past 20 years have all been linked to steroids. Many (including myself) believe Selig endorsed this steroid use, until players began being caught using these banned substances.
In an effort to remove steroids from baseball Selig sent George Mitchell to investigate the use of steroids. Mitchell gave his now famous Mitchell report on December 13th, 2007. It named numerous players including sure fire hall of famer Roger Clemens. However, the thing that is commonly overlooked with the Mitchell Report is that Mitchell is a part owner of the Boston Red Sox and has a stake in the team's success. Suspiciously no current Red Sox players were named in the report.
Selig also allowed the all star game to end in a tie one year. allowing the game to end in a tie was a giant middle finger to the fans that had watched the entire spectacle. Now because of that he attached meaning to a meaningless exhibition game by ruling that the league that wins the all star game has home field advantage for the world series. Now teams that have no chance to reach the world series have at least one player in a game to decide home field advantage. This system is flawed.
Selig has lost a world series, allowed an inconclusive all-star game and presided over the corrupt steroid era in baseball. Not only did he preside over this corruption, nut he made himself even richer off of it, making $14.5 million a year in his position. Like Congressman Cliff Stearns I am calling for Bud Selig to step down as commissioner before the reputation of the game is tarnished any further.
The year of the Blown call
Once again the attention of the sports world has been drawn to the officiating of the games as opposed to the games themselves. The games of week 1 of the NFL season thrilled many fans, but the officiating and a seemingly faulty rule overshadowed the excellent contests on the gridiron. Pittsburgh and Atlanta were locked in a defensive struggle until Rashard Mendenhall scampered for a game winning touchdown. 10 of the 16 games this past weekend were decided by a touchdown or less, but one of these games took attention away from all the others.
I'm talking of course about the controversial decision that decided the Lions, Bears game when Calvin Johnson seemingly caught a touchdown, but it was ruled incomplete because Johnson did not finish the catch. The problem is that Johnson landed and had complete control of the ball when he hit the ground. While it appears to be the right call according to the rules, it proves that the rules need to change because the call decided the game and now hurts the Lions chances of having a good season.
This is far from the first overwhelming botch by an official this year in sports. everybody remembers the failed call that robbed the Tigers Armando Galarraga of a perfect game on a play where the runner was clearly out by a full step.The worst part of this is that bud Selig refused to overturn the call days later. (My complaints about Bud Selig will have to be saved for another blog because they are too numerous to fit in this one.)
These two major botches raise the question of how the leagues need to alter rules and institute instant replay. I Believe the NFL needs to alter the rules to ensure that catches like the one Calvin Johnson made Sunday are ruled catches. However, instant replay in baseball is something that cannot happen for the sake of the game.If instant replay is introduced on calling outs, then it will only be a matter of time before we use it on balls and strikes. This would drag out the game and make every decision under scrutiny. The game of baseball needs the human element of the umpire. However, when an umpire clearly makes the wrong decision it, the league needs to overturn it especially when giving Galarraga a perfect game would not have altered the outcome of the game. the Tigers would have still shut out the White Sox. It does not matter to the White Sox if their hit total was one or zero.
NFL rules commission change that rule. Major League Baseball needs to keep the human element but get rid of its commissioner in the worst way.
I'm talking of course about the controversial decision that decided the Lions, Bears game when Calvin Johnson seemingly caught a touchdown, but it was ruled incomplete because Johnson did not finish the catch. The problem is that Johnson landed and had complete control of the ball when he hit the ground. While it appears to be the right call according to the rules, it proves that the rules need to change because the call decided the game and now hurts the Lions chances of having a good season.
This is far from the first overwhelming botch by an official this year in sports. everybody remembers the failed call that robbed the Tigers Armando Galarraga of a perfect game on a play where the runner was clearly out by a full step.The worst part of this is that bud Selig refused to overturn the call days later. (My complaints about Bud Selig will have to be saved for another blog because they are too numerous to fit in this one.)
These two major botches raise the question of how the leagues need to alter rules and institute instant replay. I Believe the NFL needs to alter the rules to ensure that catches like the one Calvin Johnson made Sunday are ruled catches. However, instant replay in baseball is something that cannot happen for the sake of the game.If instant replay is introduced on calling outs, then it will only be a matter of time before we use it on balls and strikes. This would drag out the game and make every decision under scrutiny. The game of baseball needs the human element of the umpire. However, when an umpire clearly makes the wrong decision it, the league needs to overturn it especially when giving Galarraga a perfect game would not have altered the outcome of the game. the Tigers would have still shut out the White Sox. It does not matter to the White Sox if their hit total was one or zero.
NFL rules commission change that rule. Major League Baseball needs to keep the human element but get rid of its commissioner in the worst way.
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