Indiana in the Spotlight

I just saw this photo highlighted on Time's webpage. Finally, it's Indiana's time to be in the spotlight. I am so glad that the first year I am eligible to vote, I have the opportunity to actually make a difference. After Hillary's win in the Pennsylvania primary yesterday, Indiana's voice is more important than ever. I am sure unsure who I will vote for, but I am going to make an educated decision when primary day arrises. As for now, I will continue to watch the candidates to see who I support the most.

American Idol Tackles Andrew Lloyd Webber

My favorite weeks on American Idol are always those in which the contestants are forced to tackle an odd musical genre or style. This week the six remaining singers got to meet one on one with musical god Andrew Lloyd Webber who coached them each through a song from one of his many musicals. Overall, the night was okay... I was not really surprised by any of the performance, although I was a bit underwhelmed by a few.

Carly Smithson was probably my favorite, singing "Jesus Christ Superstar." The upbeat tempo and fun lyrics really complimented her voice. She actually looked happy while she was singing for once. What a nice surprise!

David Cook was also surprisingly good this week. He sang one of my favorite musical number, "Music of the Night" from The Phantom of the Opera. It was eerily composed and a bit creepy, but his voice sounded amazing.

Syesha (to my disapproval) sang well this week, too. I really don't like her, but this musical theater genre is where she shines. Darn.

David Archuleta, I am getting rather bored with you. If you sing another ballad, I think I may gouge my eyes out. I'm beginning to think that you are incapable of singing any upbeat songs. Lucky for you, you have about a million preteen fans worshiping you.

Jason and Brooke, I'm rather disappointed with you both. I know that this is definetly not your music genre, but your selections were rather dull and unispiring. I was hoping for a little more from you. I think one of the two of you will surely be going home tomorrow. Hopefully, it's not Brooke...

Reverting Back to AIM

All throughout middle school I would always get in trouble for spending too much time on the computer instant messaging friends. I would log on my AOL account nearly everyday in order to gossip with my other friends about the most random things. It was always so serious. This whole AIM thing kinda died down quite a bit during high school when everyone got a Facebook or a Myspace and new cell phones, so they resorted to writing on each other's walls or texting back in forth instead of IMing.

This is all about to change. Apparently a lot of my friends on the floor have been using AIM to communicate with each other since the beginning of first semester. I had almost completely forgotten my screen name and password and had not thought about IMing for the longest time. However, yesterday I just downloaded the program onto my desktop and started talking to some friends. I think this will come in handy this summer when I want to keep in touch with college friends while away from IU. It's just another reason for me to spend more time on the computer. Yipee.

Amazed by Hammer and Nail

Yesterday afternoon I went downtown with some friends in order to watch the annual Hammer and Nail performance by IU dance and music students. The event consisted of almost fourteen shot performances with everything done by the students. When I say everything, I mean EVERYTHING. All of the music was composed by IU students and performed by music students. All of the dance pieces accompaning the music were choreographed by students and performed by dance students. I was amazed to see so much creativity and vision in all of the pieces presented. Of course, the program went a little long, and I might have accidentally fallen asleep a couple of times in the middle, but overall I was really impressed by what I saw on stage. We have a lot of talent at IU, and I'm glad I was given the opportunity to witness it.

Talking About Race and Culture

On Thursday afternoon, I went to hear a guest lecturer at the Anthropology department's 60th anniversary symposium. The theme of this year's symposium was race and its implications in today's society. Yolanda Moses opened up the event with one of the two keynote addresses. She divided her talk into three main sections: the understanding of race from a biological perspective, the understanding of race from a social and cultural perspective, and the need for cooperation between these two views of the issue. She began by giving a brief history of the concept of race in human society, dating back to when it was first used as a focus of class comparisons within human populations. The concept of distinct scientific biological races was prevalent, greatly affecting the treatment of races deemed “less evolutionary advanced.” As research directed toward learning more about evolutionary forces and population genetics began to arise, this idea of scientific biological races was snuffed out. It was found that there was actually more variation within groups than between them. Although this information was amassed, racism still prevailed around the globe. The Eugenics movement as well as the Holocaust is a testament to the continued quest for racial purification. Professor Moses began speaking of race in a new light, from the view of a cultural anthropologist. She deemed racism a cultural issue thriving in our society, fed by economic changes breeding anger and fear. Race is a cultural issue (a social construct) rather than a physical classification. Although this is true, Professor Moses emphasized the importance of bringing biological and cultural constructs of race together again in order to combat racism in our society. Each of these two groups (the biological and cultural anthropologists) needs to hear the other’s perspective in order to form a unified anthropological approach to racial diversity. I found this talk extremely insightful and interesting. I’m glad she was given the opportunity to visit Indiana University to speak to us about such a contested issue.

Rest in Peace, Caroline

I just heard about an hour ago that the 5 year old daughter of one of the teachers at my high school died this evening after fighting a difficult battle with leukemia. This news was so incredibly sad because I knew how strong little Caroline Harmon had been fighting over the past few months. During my senior year in high school, I was a member of the Student Council, and we conducted several fundraisers in order to benefit the Harmon family. We collected new toys and videos for Caroline in order to keep her occupied when she began her cancer treatment in quarantine. We raised money for gas and food, as well, because the family had to drive back and forth from Lafayette to Minnesota for treatment. I had not heard much news recently about Caroline Harmon's condition so I assumed that she was on the road to recovery. I'm just so shocked that such a small child could be taken in this manner. My thoughts and prayers go to the Harmon family in this time of pain and sadness. At least she will be in heaven where all the pain and suffering will be gone forever.

Miracles Happen Once in A While

I just read a really interseting article on CNN's website about an image of Jesus Christ weeping appearing on a window in an Orlando hospital. Witnesses say that the image bearing Jesus's likeness apeared quickly and lasted only for a couple of hours. There is currently no explanation for the appearance, which brought many onlookers to tears. I am a firm believer in miracles and the power of Jesus to touch peoples lives. Appearances like this one are extremely rare. Although in this case there is a tangible representation of Christ for everyone to see, I don't always have to see something to believe in it.

Am I Ready to Move Back Home?

As much as I am ready for these last three weeks of school to be over and summer to arrive, I can't help begin questioning whether or not I am ready to move back home. I've lived away from the family for almost a year now, and I am really used to the amazing freedom and responsibilities that come from living on my own. Honestly, I can't really say that I'm completely independent given that I live in a dorm room, but I still like to think that I'm out of the house for good. At least until summer arrives...

I know I'll love to go home and see family members and old high school friends, but I'm sure this excitement will be way too short lived. I'll give my sanity about two weeks before it begins to wane and struggle. My siblings drove me insane during the four weeks I was home over Christmas; I can't really imagine what it will be like after four months. I have taken for granted how free I am to do whatever I want whenever I please. I don't have to ask for permission to leave the house or worry about making a mess. I am loving being my own boss. As much as I love my parents and siblings, I think this is gonna be one hell of a long summer.

An AMAZING Weekend!

I had such an awesome time this weekend. I can now say that I officially survived "the Greatest College Weekend" here at IU.

On Friday I sadly missed out on the Women's Little 5 so I wasn't able to shake Obama's hand. My friends and I walked down to Kirkwood, though, in order to eat dinner and were told that he was soon to come to the Sample Gates in order to greet more people. We really didn't have time to wait in the large crowd, so we went and ate and then walked back to see if he had made an appearance. The mass of people had dispersed because he apparently was not going to be coming after all... We walked from Kirkwood to the IU Auditorium in order to hear Feist perform. The concert was awesome! I was so impressed with her beautiful voice, as well as, with her sense of humor. She really engaged the audience well and kept us really entertained. However, I think the most interesting thing about the concert was Feist's so called "Shadow Mistress." This woman stood at the back of the stage throughout the show and projected things onto a screen behind the band. I was incredibly mesmerized by these images; sometimes I lost track of where I was because I was staring so intently at the projections. During one song, the Shadow Mistress finger painted on the screen. She painted a boat on the water being engulfed by the sea. The image was drawn so slowly and precisely and correlated exactly with the music being played. It was phenomenal.

Yesterday I decided that I should go and see the race, even though it was rainy, windy, and FREEZING cold. I was hoping for possibly a few more accidents (those are really exciting) but was glad I went in the end. I got a little bored for about 100 laps in the middle of the race, but the beginning and ending were really exciting. Now I can say I officially attended the Little 500 race at IU.

Surprised by Riverdance

I signed up to usher severel performances this semester at the IU Auditorium, but I've had to cancel most of them due to chemistry tests, trips home, and midterm paper. Yesterday was actually the first time this semester that I was able to usher a show that I signed up for. I was a bit apprehensive about ushering Riverdance; I really didn't think that it would be that entertaining. Two whole hours of Irish dancing? Not quite my cup of tea... Actually the only reason I ended up staying for the show was because several of the people on my floor had seen the show earlier this week and had said it was amazing. (On top of that, I was procrastinating completing my bio lab report.) I have to say that show completely surprised me. The music and dancing were phenomenal! I was amazed at how well the dancers tapped to the fastpaced Irish band, especially when s group of 10-15 dancers stepped perfectly in sync together in a line. This was a great beginning to an awesome weekend.

This afternoon I may go watch the women's Little 5 because of the prospect of Barack Obama speaking before the race. I'm going with my friends to the Feist concert tonight which should be a really good time. Tomorrow is the men's Little 500 which should also be a lot of fun. I just need to make some time to write that bio lab and study for an organic chemistry exam for Tuesday...

Excited for Little 5!

Wow, this freshman year of college sure passed by at lightning speed. I can't believe that we only have three weeks of school left... With the end of the school year comes only one event, IU's Little 500. I am so excited to participate in this college tradition known for its craziness and chaos. I'm a little upset, however, that it's supposed to drop down into the 40's and possibly snow this weekend. What a bummer.

Although Little 5 may be a time of fun and games, it's really important to stay safe this week. Some people take the whole partying thing a bit out of control, and that's when things get bad. I've heard tons of stories from older students telling of the ruckus that ensues throughout this week: kids coming to class intoxicated, sofas being thrown out of dorm windows, large mobs of students at concerts... I'm into having fun with my friends, don't get me wrong, but I think safety needs to come first.

More IUSA Election Controversy

On the front page of today's issue of the IDS is an article about more IUSA election controversy. Apparently an investigation is taking place into Kirkwood's actions while campaigning. The news of someone from the Kirkwood ticket stealing important Big Red emails surfaced several weeks ago, but the implications may be much harsher than originally anticipated. Adam Pozza, the Kirkwood congressional candidate who allegedly forwarded the Big Red emails, was issued a fine totaling 20% of Kirkwood's campaign expenses. Further investigation is under way, if Kirkwood ticket is found to have made three violations, they will be disqualified.

I am completely shocked that our student government can be so corrupt and unethical. If this is what it's going to amount to, I think that IU is better off without this type of organization. What shocked me further is that so many students voted for the Kirkwood ticket even after they were found to steal another campaign's emails. Why would you want a shady ticket in charge? It's not like Kirkwood's platform was that much better than everyone else's. I did support their initiation to make a green campus, but I think this idea could be set in action by whatever ticket wins. It's jsut sad that the election is completely a popularity contest and not based on who will actually make IU a better place.

Your Grandmother is a Blast-ended Skank!

Oh my gosh! I haven't watched Potter Puppet Pals in months so I visited the site to see if there were any new videos. I was pretty excited to find that a new clip, "Wizard Swears" was up and running. It is one of the most hilarious things I've ever seen. (But not quite as good as "The Mysterious Ticking Noise....") Harry, Ron, and Herminone found a list of wizard swear words that have been banned from Hogwarts. If you've read the books, the choice words seem very funny and unappropriate. The puppet pals clips with actual puppets are great, but I'm really impressed with those that were made using Flash. I've had trouble doing basic Flash operations in class, so this thing must have taken many hours of work. Harry Potter books are some of my favorites, but it's great to see them being ridiculed by creative pupeteers. I really love these short movies.

The Quest for the Elusive Profile Picture

Long and rough is the quest for that elusive profile picture. Hours are spent in front of the mirror, smirking, grinning, snarling, laughing... Anything to get the perfect shot, something that will make you look cool, funny, and likeable. Tonight my friends and I got out the cameras and began taking pictures as we goofed around on the floor. I realized something important: I look terrifying in every picture I take. It's quite sad really. Is it possible for me to look normal and approachable in at least one photo? Apparently not. We took pictures of each other jumping frantically in the air. The only problem was that I was pushed from behind and ended up with a look of terrified bewilderment on my face. It became the source of ten straight minutes of laughter and ridicule... A couple of my friends decided it was a good idea to climb up into the storage compartment above my closet to take some humorous shots. Wow. That's all I can say. Again, however, I looked awkward in all of my pictures. Perhaps I need to learn to look and act more normal; that will be a challenge.

Fixated by Arrested Development

I'm so sad that I never watched Arrested Development while it was actually on television. Perhaps then it wouldn't have been canceled after three seasons. Luckily, I was introduced to this phenomenal show earlier last semester when a friend on my floor purchased the entirety of the three seasons. A group of us watched episode after episode together on the weekends until we made it through them all. Lately I've heard of lots of other people beginning to become addicted to the program as well. I watched a few episodes tonight with a different group of friends.

The storyline is so incredibly complex, but everything ties together so well in the end. The cast is AMAZING! Everyone portrays his or her character perfectly. Personally, I like Tobias and Buster the best. They have so many one liners that make me laugh hysterically. The actress who play Lucille has fantastic facial expressions. I would oftentimes find myself giggling before she even uttered a word because of her incredible smirk or grimace or glare. I've heard recently that an Arrested Development movie is in the works. That would definetly be incredible. I'm glad I was introduced to such an awesome show.

Free Concert for Obama

I have several friends who waited in line last night for over three hours in order to pick up a free concert ticket to see Dave Matthews play at Assembly Hall this Sunday. He is coming in order to host a campaign concert/rally for Barack Obama. What a great way to gain the support of the college crowd. Personally, I would have preferred if Obama himself made his way to IU in order to speak to the students. This way we actually be informed about the person we may choose to vote for; it would be less like bribing kids to vote and more like inspiring them. I heard that the ticket office ran out of tickets this morning but failed to mention this to the lengthy line waiting outside. Instead, when the unaware students entered the building, they registered them to vote and then sent them out in another direction so they wouldn't tell the other students who were still waiting in line. If this is true (I'm not exactly sure if it is.) I think it's a bit sneaky. Letting people register on their own accord would be a better idea.

For the First Time in 40 Years, Our Votes Matter

How often can someone say that they attended a rally held by a former president of the United States? I was incredibly upset upon hearing that Bill Clinton was speaking in my hometown of Lafayette earlier last week. I had gone home for Easter last Sunday; if only I had stayed an extra day (and skipped a few classes), I would have been able to witness an extreme important event in Lafayette's history. Worse yet, I was unable to go to the auditorium to hear Chelsea Clinton, either, because of a stupid biology lab. My class schedule was really hindering my ability to become a politically informed voter come May.

Luckily, I got my chance to see former president Clinton today when he made a second trip to Indiana in support of his wife. The only drawback, I had to miss three classes in the process (darn). I went with several of my friends from high school, along with a few people from my floor. We got there around 1:45 and were met with a stagnant line stretching around the building. Apparently, they had not begun letting people in yet. We kinda edged our way into the middle of line as it started to move, but we ended up waiting around 30 minutes before we actually entered Assembly Hall. Surprisingly, there was very little security from what I could see. One of my friends brought her backpack, but noone searched us at all. We weren't even led through a metal detector. I thought this a bit lax for such an important man...

When we got to our seats, we realized that we were seated in the row behind 20 rows of fifth grade elementary school students who came to here Bill Clinton speak. This confused me. Were these kids even born when Bill Clinton was in office? Did they even know who Bill Clinton was? I know when I was that age, I had about the attention span of a flea and would have fallen asleep within the first five minutes of his speech. The kids did enjoy doing "the wave" and yelling out "Go Bill!" at random intervals. This lasted for about two hours due to the fact that Mr. Clinton was pretty late.

When he arrived, Indiana Senator Vi Simpson had us all give Bill Clinton a "happy, hearty, Hoosier welcome!" I know, this sounds a bit corny, but Senator Simpson really got the crowd pumped up and ready for a powerful speech. I never realized just how eloquent and charasmatic President Clinton was while in office. He addressed nearly all of the major issues facing the presidential frontrunners today: no child left behind, alternate energy sources, our failing economy, healthcare, technology... Bill Clinton was so supportive of his wife; he felt that she would make an even better president than he was. (I'm not sure if he was being completely honest.) I really felt inspired to get out and vote next month. Our vote would matter for the first time in 40 years, he said. This really makes me feel awesome. I can actually make a difference in our nation's future!

Here They Come Again With Dolly

It's Tuesday evening, again. Do you know what that means? More American Idol!! This week the remaining nine contestants took on songs by country legend Dolly Parton. She has such an overflowing songbook; I'm surprised that she hadn't been on the show earlier. Apparently her fans were as well. I was excited to see what the singers had to offer, especially after the dreadful outcomes from last week. Honestly, there were no real surprises. Those who I thought were going to do well did well. Those who I thought would sink sunk. My favorites are definetly clearly defined.

1. David Archuleta- Singing "Country Mountain Memories," David returned to his heartwrenching ballads that he performs so well. I love the tone of his voice and the effortlessness with which he sings. He's still the favorite to win it all.

2. David Cook- Now that Amanda Overmeyer is gone, I've turned to the only other rocker in the competition. I was impressed with what he did with "Little Sparrow." His falsetto was awesome, and the simplicity of the song was a really nice change for him. I noticed, though, before he sang he made sure to give proper tribute to all of the artists who had arranged the songs he sang over the past few weeks. Way to avoid more controversy...

3. Carly Smithson- Honestly, this girl could sing anything and make it sound amazing. Tonight she sang "Here We Come Again," and I almost liked it more than the original. Her voice is pure and beautiful, but I'm not sure how large her fan base is at the moment.

Worst Performances:

1. Ramiele Malubay- Oh my God. It drives me crazy how she acts like a frickin two year old all the time. Just because you're the same height as a child doesn't mean that you have to act like one. She sang "Do I Ever Cross Your Mind." It was kinda weird... a bit to bouncy for her.

2. Kristy Lee Cook- After the "you-can't-vote-out-a-patriotic-girl" stunt that she pulled last week (darn you), I was hoping that she would be bad enough this week to be sent home. I know that she is a decent country singer, but I was disappointed with her song choice ("Coat of Many Colors") and performance. It was boring and forgetable.

I have a paper to write tomorrow night, so I might miss the results show. Let's see how my predictions pan out.