Halee's Blog☮

The Inevtable Afterlife, Or is There?

2009-03-08T20:16:00.000-07:00

Due to my religion class that i have been taking this term, i have been thinking a lot about the possibility of an afterlife, and what it could possibly be like. I did some research and have found that there are loads of information on the Internet and supposed "proof" that an after life really exists.

Christians believe in heaven and hell, Jews aren't too concerned about an afterlife, and Islams also believe in a heaven and hell, just in a different translation. But what if there is nothing after this? All this money and research for nothing? "ghosts are definitely real," said the after-lifeknowledge website. in my opinion, i think somethings out there, i am just not sure what yet. Who knows, maybe nothings out there.

Education Concern... Declining?

2009-03-07T18:18:00.000-08:00

Homework deadlines and increasing GPA pressure make the inevitably approaching finals week stressful enough for students. But what if the only internet access you had available wouldn’t allow you to use their college resources for “soon to be due” homework?

Due to the current economy crisis, my family like many others had to shut off the internet completely, resulting in higher stress for students. With the Benton Center closed on weekends and the public library only allowing an hour’s time on the computer, the pressure of deadlines are high, so I decided to go to the Oregon State Valley Library.

Expecting to get done in a few hours, I sat at the computer ready to do some homework. I complained at the front desk that the Microsoft Word wasn’t working and she (refusing to give me her full name) rudely replied, “Only those who are OSU students have the privilege to use that resource, you’ll need to find it somewhere else.”

Irritated and shocked, I sat and thought about exactly what she had just told me. I and many other students are going to LBCC in order to transfer to OSU; but how do they expect us students to get good grades when were not even allowed access to any resources we that we need.

“We cannot let anyone other than student or staffs have access to Microsoft due to political reasons,” said Sherry Thomas, and employer of Oregon State University.

Political reasons? I thought “don’t political leaders state regularly that education is one of the nation’s top priorities?” I did some investigating and found nothing of the sort of politics refusing access to the public of needed resources.

Although what I did find was a statement from the core of our political standing saying “our higher education system is very accessible and helps students succeed once they get there,” quoted the U.S. Department of Education website.

As you can see, Politics have nothing to do with why OSU won’t let any “non-students” use common resources that anywhere else (if were open) would gladly allow. My interpretation of the whole situation is nothing to smile about.

Thank you Oregon State, you helped oh so much.

"On Writing - Stephen King" .... and rewriting

2009-03-01T14:12:00.000-08:00

On Writing: the novel written by the popular science-fiction author Stephen King, had a load of information "on writing" that will surely help me through my college and occupational future. I absolutely loved the first section of his book as well that was an autobiography on his life, mostly when he was rising to become an author. It made me realize that even some of the best and most talented were faced with rejection, and that is really inspiring to me.

I loved Stephen King's quote "write with the door closed, rewrite with the door open." He is saying that when your stuff starts out it is meant just for you, but when it goes out it belongs to whoever wants to read it. That quote really applies to my Feature Writing class, since it consists of a lot of writing multiple drafts until you get your story just how you want it. This book has really motivated me to keep writing and reading, and that when you face rejection to never give up and to always stand behind your work.

The Rising Price of Old-School

2009-02-25T08:41:00.000-08:00

Classic video games: in my opinion the best games that have surfaced media. Then why are they so expensive if there over a decade old? That is what I’m prepared to answer.

Mario Brothers, Zelda and Donkey Kong are just a few of the game titles planted into mine and many others head over the past years. Missing the catchy theme songs and easy bosses, I decided to “visit the past” and buy myself a Super Nintendo over winter break.

Expecting that an inexpensive game system meant inexpensive games, I was soon bewildered by the outcome. I found that the Super Mario Brothers game I came to purchase at the pond shop was more expensive then the Super Nintendo itself! Twenty-two dollars to be exact.

Stunned, I decided to wait on the game and wait for a more reasonably priced one. I began to wonder why it is that you can only but these games at over-priced pond shops, and why they aren’t available in popular video game stores such as Game Crazy or Game Stop.

“People come in asking for old Nintendo games all the time,” said Phillip Kaiser, an employer of Game Crazy in Salem, when asked if many of their customers request such games.

I pondered the question “are classic video games so expensive because they are considered rare”? I would have to say so. Even though it is possible to find them, it does take a little bit of networking and patience to find reasonable priced ones.

When I asked Game Stop employer ,Jonathon Little ,why they don’t carry classic games he responded “it was a corporate decision, they said we don’t have near enough room for them.”

Enough room for them? Make your own judgement.

Film Festival Fever

2009-02-20T11:28:00.000-08:00

My final story for Feature Writing winter term class is going to be a feature story about the upcoming Da Vinci Day Film Festival. This Festival is a galore of sufccesful independant film directors and aspiring film directors as well. THe event is held March 6th through March 8th.

Super Nintendo Games

2009-02-09T11:31:00.000-08:00

Well my column idea is to rant about why old nintendo games are so expensive now. It just doesnt make sense why a mario game would cost $20.00 when a Super Nintendo itself cost just that.

Profile

2009-02-09T11:21:00.001-08:00

Hard work and long days are the key ingredients to Travis Corbin's everyday recipe titled "life".
As a father of two sons, Jacob and David, 7, Travis takes valuable time off of work so he can bring the weekly responsibility in watching them every other weekend, due to a past divorce. "I absolutely love it when my kids are here with me, they're just so full of spunk," said Corbin.

Dressed casually in a black sweater and old Carhartt work wear, Travis instantaneously offers me a cup of coffee and really gives me the impression of a laid-back and comfortable individual. Behind his balding brown hair and neon blue eyes, you see a very family orientated, energetic and outgoing person.

"Travis just loves coming here from Adair Village and helping me with my home and my flower
business," said Kathy Corbin, Travis's mom.

Graduating at the top of his high school class in '98, Corbin soon decided to get up and start searching for his purpose in life. Jumping from many odd-end jobs, Travis finally came across one job working for a tow-truck company. He gladly jumped on the deal. "After just recently having two sons and being unemployed, I was willing to work anything," said Corbin. The job lasted, but his marriage sadly didn't.

Travis gladly speaks of his hobbies such as snowboarding, skiing and especially singing. "He has one of the most beautiful singing voices that I have ever heard," said Navarre Smith, a friend of his.

Travis also speaks of his many memories in the snow, while gladly showing off various scars on his body due to the snow packed fun. Travis speaks greatly of his two sons, especially about how proud he is of them. "All I want in life is to see my two boys grow up to be happy and healthy," said Travis.

"Maybe me too," he added.

The Beauty of the Rogue

2009-02-06T11:31:00.000-08:00

The place i remember the most is the Rogue Valley (mostly the Applegate). I had spent most of my childhood there, and my favorite memories were spent there. The wildlife, the nature, the laid back people. Going back there last weekend for the funeral was the last time I was in Medford for the past 4 years. Even though the trip was a sad occasion, it brought back so many memories. I hope too go back soon.

My Bloody Valentine Review

2009-01-30T23:37:00.000-08:00

Gallons of blood, guts and ear-plugging screams is what's in store for you at the "My Bloody Valentine 3D" feature playing at most cinema's.

With the surprisingly realistic 3D, "My Bloody Valentine" creators figured much of a plot was not needed. Although "My Bloody Valentine" will keep you on the edge of your seat, there is no strong story line to follow along with. "The 3D was so crazy, it was really awesome," said Austin Corbin, a fellow viewer of the gory flick.

Basically the plot is a Mine worker who lived in a small town and massacred countless people on Valentine's Day, and than ten years later many murders arose again, with many suspicious speculations on who the killer could possibly be.

The plot is weak, but the 3D and special effects were unreal. "I really enjoyed it, especially how someone was getting killed every 5 minutes," said James Nelson, a friend of mine. Essentially "My Bloody Valentine" was a bittersweet horror flick, that everyone with an open mind and a tough stomach should definitely go check out.

The Good Ol' Profile

2009-01-23T11:25:00.000-08:00

Well I was talking to my mom about it this morning and she knows somebody from her classes that she said that he was in Vietnam and she said he is a really cool guy, so i'm going to ask if he will let me do a profile on him probably over the weekend, hopefully he will say yes.

Movie Review!

2009-01-22T17:34:00.000-08:00

"My Bloody Valentine" will be the topic of my movie review that I'm am going to write for my journalism Feature Writing class. From what i know, My Bloody Valentine is a 3D horror flick, and is a remake of the 1981 film. I'm planning on going to see the movie this weekend, and i will let you all know how realistic the 3D is I will also rate the movie. Hope it is as good as it looks!

Historical Linn Theatre

2009-01-14T11:26:00.000-08:00

Shirley Temple, Charlie Chapin and Harold Lloyd are just a few of many
old-time movie stars you may recall, probably as a result of watching
videos and DVDs with family and friends in the comfort of your own
home. But in an actual movie theatre you ask? Odds are you haven't.
The locally famous "Linn Theatre" is located within a twenty-nine
seat antique boxcar attached to the Linn County Historical Museum of
Brownsville. Established in 1962, the theatre features a diverse
collection of many westerns and silent films.
"I have always enjoyed the silent films there, they're always just so
funny!" said Neli Avilez, a resident of Shedd.
The theatre also features the unforgettable "Stand by Me" film (which
was filmed in Brownsville) by throwing "movie night" parties every now
and then.
The Linn Theatre also regularly shows many educational programs to
small groups and elementary students.
"'Steamboat Willy' being their favorite," said Gary Timms, the
manager of the museum/theatre.
While touring the historical museum, you will come across an obsolete
popcorn maker and a beautiful display of photos from famous timeless
movie stars.
Looking up you see the original neon sign reading "Linn Theatre."
While entering the boxcar you sense an everlasting impression of
history through a timeline of the past kinetoscopes, to the present of
IMAX.
"I just love that theatre, it's so surreal, I always get a historical
vibe when I visit there that you don't find in any other theatre in
the valley," said Ashley Svela, a resident of Albany.
The Linn County Historical Theatre is located on 101 Park St.,
Brownsville. The hours are from 1 p.m. through 4 p.m. Monday-Saturday,
and 1 p.m. through 5 p.m. Sundays, and the cost if free.
"Anyone and everyone is welcome, the more the merrier!" said Timms.

2009-01-14T11:15:00.000-08:00

well i had already done my interviews... Tuesday and Wednesday were very busy feature writing days for me. I interviewed my friends friend (whom I'm not friends with, just acquainted). My friend had told me she was a theater "nerd" and loved everything about it... so i figured she would know something; and she did. I also interviewed an employer of the Linn Museum, he gave me a tour and gave me a bunch of information. And lastly i interviewed my boyfriends friends girlfriend. I heard she was really into classic films and that she often goes to the Linn Theatre, so I called her up right away. They all knew much about the films played, and they were great additions to my story.

My First Feature Story of 2009!

2009-01-09T11:10:00.000-08:00

Next week I will be working on a feature story about the Linn-County Museum in Brownsville, Oregon. My main focus will be about the Theater located inside the museum. The theater features silent films, films like Wizard of Oz, and the famous Stand by Me that was filmed in brownsville.

Merry Christmas? Hmm

2008-11-30T18:53:00.000-08:00

More like scary Christmas! All people think about around the holidays is what there going to receive or what there gonna buy for Christmas. Yeah it's fun, but what about the people that can't afford anything, or people that can't afford to have a Christmas dinner? I doubt their singing hymns, or worrying about who there gonna kiss under the mistletoe. Every year around the holidays me and my mom go to senior homes and spend time with the people who have no family or friends. We bring them flowers and candy and visit with each person. My reasoning to posting this blog is to remind you that even though the countdown to Christmas starts tomorrow, please make sure to think of the people who may not have anything to countdown too.

Tupac vs John Lennon

2008-11-28T11:42:00.000-08:00

A few days ago me and my boyfriend were arguing about who is a better musician and who's words were more powerful to people. My opinion was that John Lennon was better, and he was insisting uac was better. Later on that day i was thinking about our little conflict, and i decided an answer of whos more worthy. Their the same. No on is better than another, and your just being bias if you think so. It all depends on how you were raised and the kind of people you grew up with that ultimatly effects your opinion. Tupac was a great musician and role-model. yeah i admit he's not exactly my style, but i can still respect him. and on John Lennons behalf, "Give Peace a Chance"!

Twighlight?

2008-11-21T21:45:00.001-08:00

I dont see the big buzz about the new movie Twilight. People are practicully passing out in the movie theatres and i got invited and i was like "eh, i dont feel like going." My brother wanted to go and it was sold out until next sunday! CRAAAZZZYY! Tell me what you though about the movie... im curious.

Subliminal Messaging in Disney

2008-11-21T08:39:00.001-08:00

So, this week in Media & Society we were discussing advertising and how sometimes they send out subliminal messages. Subliminal messages are something that the conscious mind doesn't see, but your subliminal mind picks up. I have heard that a bunch of Disney movies have Many subliminal messages, usually sexual based. Here are a few examples:
If you look closely, the dust in the air clearly spell out the words "sex".

The Little Mermaid cover seems as if there is a phallus right in the center... hm?

Does Disney Have a dirty mind? You decide.

"Radio" Ray Pietz

2008-11-12T16:58:00.000-08:00

Voice of valley talk radio, "Radio" Ray Pietz of KGAL AM, gave a spoke to Rob Priewe's Media & Society class of about 10, on the obstacles of his past years and how those experiences influenced him to talk radio.
Oct. 21, Ray Pietz spoke to the Media & Society class about the development of modern day radio in the media, and how those advances affect listeners; such as the Telecommunications Act of 1996, enabling major companies to own as many stations as they like, limiting the point of views we the listeners acquire.
"You never know when you can run into something that will change your life forever" said Pietz, while discussing the term of his life when he was invited to broadcast school. "Radio has always been a magnet to me, drawn to me"
Students of Mr. Priewe's Media & Society class undeniably enjoyed Pietz optimistic outlook on situations; from reasons why he should be the one elected president, to the not-so-fair Telecommunications Act. Pietz speech was certainly worth listening to! To listen in on the fun yourself, tune to 1580 KGAL AM Monday-Thursday 11:06 a.m. – noon. You won't regret it.

Blogging-Craze

2008-11-12T14:42:00.000-08:00

Really glad i'm keeping the blog up, i love this site now. Even after i complete News Reporting & Journalism i will still keep up on my blog. I absolutly love reading randomn blogs that i find, and i would have to say im a slave for Perez Hilton's blog (i know, lame... but it's just so entertaining to keep up with celebrity gossip!). I feel i'm doing really good in college, ALOT better than i did in highschool. Even with my chaotic homelife, i'm still keeping up!!! Woohoo

Transgendar Man... Mayor?

2008-11-07T10:13:00.000-08:00

The first openly transgendar man to ever be elected mayor speaks up about hardships and differnces faced during the election and while serving as town mayor. (Local News)
Stu Rasmussen of Silverton, Ore. formerly served two-years as town mayor, before addmiting of being transgendar. Rasmussen identifies as a heterosexual male, stating "i just look like a female".
With a girlfriend, Rasmussen is now happy with his life, and being the mayor!(Election HQ)

i feel that this is totally fine, he can be just as good as a mayor than an old white guy, maybe even better.

NEWS VIDEO!!!!

OBAMA-RAMA!

2008-11-05T08:51:00.000-08:00

Obama is finally elected our new president! Listen to his amazing acceptence speech:

=)

Trick or Treat Smell My Feet

2008-11-01T13:52:00.000-07:00

I know, I know your probably thinking I'm WAY to old to be trick or treating, but IT was so fun! I got gained loads of candy, and a few pounds too! Basically, Halloween was awesome. I was a puppy dog, i painted my face black and white, everyone thought it was cute.

Hallo-ween?

2008-10-28T11:00:00.001-07:00

So basically i have no idea what i am going to be for Halloween. My mom got me a Cleopatra costume but i think its gonna be WAY to cold to wear a dress. I really want to dress up though. Oh well, i will figure something out. Me and my boyfriend and my best friend are going to go trick or treating haha. I cant wait! Hope you have a good Halloween too!

Newspaper

2008-10-23T15:54:00.000-07:00

My Muddy Creek Maze story was printed in the commuter, my mom was super excited and so am I! I am proud of myself, and so is my family!! =)

Muddy Creek Maze

2008-10-20T12:51:00.001-07:00

From the pumpkin patch to the hayride, Muddy Creek Corn Maze is without question a local Halloween thrillseeker's dream.
Owners Glenda and John Davis have spent multiple years running the annual corn maze (that is in the form of a wagon). The Davis family has transformed their beloved farm into a thrilling, heartwarming affair; from 30 acres of grass seed, suddenly to a seasonal Halloween celebration for family and friends.
"I loved it, especially the homemade doughnuts and apple cider," said Kevin Walker, a student of OSU.
The pumpkin patch is just the beginning of the activities offered here at Muddy Creek Farm, starting with the straw for, the "moo train" for kids, homemade apple cider and hayrides; not to mention the unforgettable haunted maze. For those of you brave enough to enter, the mask-wearing monsters of the haunted maze are sure to scare "the daylights out of you, especially the chainsaw man at the end of the maze, said Sandi Frame, a mother of four.
The haunted maze admission is $9 per person, glow sticks are also offered for $1 to just barely light your path through the night-struck maze. No flashlights, backpacks or smoking is allowed on the premises.
Strobe lights are located throughout the maze and two exits for the suddenly claustrophobic or "not so brave" as well.
For the Davis family, holding the festivities of their pumpkin patch and corn maze is "definitely rewarding for us and the community," said John Davis.
Daytime admission is 11 a.m. through 5 p.m. every Saturday-Sunday, and weekdays by appointment. The cost is $6 for adults and $4 for children (6-11); younger than 5 is free.
Located six miles south of Corvallis on Llewellyn Road, Muddy Creek Corn Maze will be held Oct. 24, 25, 20 and 31.

Dammit Janet, its the Rocky Horror Picture Show!

2008-10-10T16:01:00.000-07:00

Flying toast, lingerie and more is what to expect at the Majestic Theatre's "Rocky Horror Picture Show" this coming January.
From the "Rocky Horror" fans of Transsexual Transylvania heaving toilet paper, to each person joining the time-warp dance, the "Rocky Horror Picture Show" is still a favorite of both worldwide and local Corvallis residents. "Rocky Horror" derived from being a potentially ill-fated movie to being one of the longest running theatrical releases in film history.
Essentially what to expect is Dr Frank-N-Furter, your average mad-scientist, alien transvestite; who if he's not belting out a song, is having sex with someone – gender not an issue.
"Rocky Horror Picture Show "is generally known by the public for being a cult movie, due to its devoted, obsessive fan base. "Rocky Horror is the only Movie around where you're encouraged to arrive in lingerie, holler obscenities at the screen and to cast objects across the theater," said Shannon Skaré, a committed fan of "Rocky Horror".
Brianna McGinley, a student of Harding Alternative High School in Corvallis, said, "This movie isn't for everyone, you either hate it or love it, but dammit (Janet) I liked it!"
Brian Watkins, the facilities manager of the Majestic Theatre, mentioned that the past 30 years of fun of the drag-fest influenced him and is now one of the few reasons he began working for the theatre; admitting that "The Rocky Horror Picture Show is truly one of the greatest motion pictures ever made".
"Come join us in on all the fun" Watkins said.

Time Machine... is it possible?

2008-10-06T10:09:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend i was doing my usual reading, and i came across an intriguing book of randomn facts. I started browsing through the pages and i found a page dedicated to the question "is time travel possible"? Curious, i read the paragraphs and one question made me go "hmmm". If time travel is possible, than why hasn't anyone from the future come back to tell us about it? I thought about it for awhile, and i was definetly stumped.

Ofcourse it's not possible when you think about it, but it's always fun to dream.