Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Tonight
This evening, a co-worker and I will be attending a Gastronomica Forum at the Astor Center in NYC. I'm very excited to participate in such an event and will fill you in on everything tomorrow morning. There will be several personalities from the culinary/media industry ranging from journalists and editors to chefs and recipe developers.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Michael Pollan and Food
Listen to Michael Pollan speak with Leonard Lopate of WNYC. Its about sustainability, diversity and education!
I love how he starts off with food being an issue of national security. The spike in food prices, quality of crops grown on our soil and abroad, world hunger, food politics (a non partisan issue), genetically modified crops (GMO's), etc.
To take this one step further, visit the Kitchen Gardeners' International website and sign the petition for "Eat The View". Have the next President of our country, plant a garden on the front lawn of the White House, and carry the torch for sustainability and community!
I love how he starts off with food being an issue of national security. The spike in food prices, quality of crops grown on our soil and abroad, world hunger, food politics (a non partisan issue), genetically modified crops (GMO's), etc.
To take this one step further, visit the Kitchen Gardeners' International website and sign the petition for "Eat The View". Have the next President of our country, plant a garden on the front lawn of the White House, and carry the torch for sustainability and community!
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
YouTube and Copyright Infringement
Look at the onion I pulled out this morning!
While listening to WNYC on my way to the train, I heard a very interesting report regarding copyright infringement, YouTube, and the Obama/McCain Campaigns.
Apparently the campaigns have been taking fragments from network news reports (CBS, etc) and using them in ads that they are now distributing on YouTube. Illegal? Um, without a doubt! Not only are they editing clips, but some are completely out of context. This clip-and-paste campaigning is extremely deceitful to the public (who's trust is already scraping the bottom) and is the reason for "gotcha-journalism".
I wasn't able to listen to the entire report (still searching for the online link rigth now), but did hear that the McCain campaign is fighting back and I believe the Obama campaign pulled the ad. I'm not saying that either candidate is better than the other for even trying to get away with this. In fact, I think it's a slap in the face to all of the media corporations and users that have to follow the same laws. It is not that time consuming to get the rights to use material from other sources ESPECIALLY if you are running for President.
I will be following this issue very closely and will keep you all updated. Please read the following article and op-ed to get the gist of the situation and how important this issue is.
Groups Ask Networks, YouTube to Altar Take Down Protocol By Stephanie Condon, CNET.com
Copyright and Politics Don't Mix By Lawrence Lessig, NY Times
While listening to WNYC on my way to the train, I heard a very interesting report regarding copyright infringement, YouTube, and the Obama/McCain Campaigns.
Apparently the campaigns have been taking fragments from network news reports (CBS, etc) and using them in ads that they are now distributing on YouTube. Illegal? Um, without a doubt! Not only are they editing clips, but some are completely out of context. This clip-and-paste campaigning is extremely deceitful to the public (who's trust is already scraping the bottom) and is the reason for "gotcha-journalism".
I wasn't able to listen to the entire report (still searching for the online link rigth now), but did hear that the McCain campaign is fighting back and I believe the Obama campaign pulled the ad. I'm not saying that either candidate is better than the other for even trying to get away with this. In fact, I think it's a slap in the face to all of the media corporations and users that have to follow the same laws. It is not that time consuming to get the rights to use material from other sources ESPECIALLY if you are running for President.
I will be following this issue very closely and will keep you all updated. Please read the following article and op-ed to get the gist of the situation and how important this issue is.
Groups Ask Networks, YouTube to Altar Take Down Protocol By Stephanie Condon, CNET.com
Copyright and Politics Don't Mix By Lawrence Lessig, NY Times
Monday, October 20, 2008
McCain - My only political posting
I promise this will be my only political views posting (I know, I'm tired of reading them too), but this really sent me over the edge.
Apparantly Heidi Montag endorsed John McCain and the best part, he commented on it. I can hear John Stewarts quips now!
I just really hope Obama doesn't admit to 'never missing an episode of The Hills', because, if he does, I think I may have to vote for the Green Party.
Apparantly Heidi Montag endorsed John McCain and the best part, he commented on it. I can hear John Stewarts quips now!
I just really hope Obama doesn't admit to 'never missing an episode of The Hills', because, if he does, I think I may have to vote for the Green Party.
Friday, October 17, 2008
World Food Day
Before the financial crisis hit headlines, a study reported that malnutrition will be affecting almost 1 Billion people around the globe. With the huge increase of food over the past months and now another increase threatens even more people in danger of starvation and other malacies.
Please read and/or listen to this full story from Democracy Now.
For those of us who are blessed with food at the table every day and night, it wouldn't hurt to be a little more mindful of how much you are consuming and how much you should appreciate your bounty. Don't "bite off more than you can chew" and heap your plate from the table to the ceiling. While you are picking apples and pumpkins with family and friends or enjoying a harvest, consider donating some of the fresh produce to a local soup kitchen or shelter.
There are little things we can do that will relieve even the tiniest bit of pressure from a struggling family. At the end of the day, our communities must be our extended families. Greed and corruption got us into this mess and I honestly believe only good will can put us back on track.
Please read and/or listen to this full story from Democracy Now.
For those of us who are blessed with food at the table every day and night, it wouldn't hurt to be a little more mindful of how much you are consuming and how much you should appreciate your bounty. Don't "bite off more than you can chew" and heap your plate from the table to the ceiling. While you are picking apples and pumpkins with family and friends or enjoying a harvest, consider donating some of the fresh produce to a local soup kitchen or shelter.
There are little things we can do that will relieve even the tiniest bit of pressure from a struggling family. At the end of the day, our communities must be our extended families. Greed and corruption got us into this mess and I honestly believe only good will can put us back on track.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
The Brian Lehrer Show at Hofstra University
This morning on WNYC, The Brian Lehrer Show hosted from Hofstra University for the the final Presidential Debate. Mr. Lehrer spoke with students and professors from the school on the topics of politics and the financial crisis in regards to the future of higher education.
If you have about a 1/2 hour or can download onto your I-Pod, I would strongly suggest doing so.
The most standout point for me was with students altering what they really want to do to be in industries where they will make money out of school. For example - in the medical field they said that there was an increase in students concentrating in dermatology over other concentrations.
This to me is not just scary, but hits very close to home as I am in search for the right Graduate Program to apply for.
If you have about a 1/2 hour or can download onto your I-Pod, I would strongly suggest doing so.
The most standout point for me was with students altering what they really want to do to be in industries where they will make money out of school. For example - in the medical field they said that there was an increase in students concentrating in dermatology over other concentrations.
This to me is not just scary, but hits very close to home as I am in search for the right Graduate Program to apply for.
An Interesting Observation
On the 1 train this morning heading into work I over heard the conversation between two young boys - middle school/high school age - on their way to school. The dialogue was as such...
Boy 1: "I could not get away from video game this morning. I've almost completed this level but can't get past [none of this made sense to me as I am not a gamer]..."
Boy 2: "You played this morning? How do you have time to play before leaving for school? There's only a little bit of time"
Boy 1: "I get up every day at 6am to play! Don't you? I have, like, two hours every morning!"
They were very sweet kids, respectful of people around them. But I was still amazed and curious as to which game he was so passionate about playing. When this game is complete, which will be next? What has he played in the past?
I have so many questions I would have loved to ask him. Thoughts?
Boy 1: "I could not get away from video game this morning. I've almost completed this level but can't get past [none of this made sense to me as I am not a gamer]..."
Boy 2: "You played this morning? How do you have time to play before leaving for school? There's only a little bit of time"
Boy 1: "I get up every day at 6am to play! Don't you? I have, like, two hours every morning!"
They were very sweet kids, respectful of people around them. But I was still amazed and curious as to which game he was so passionate about playing. When this game is complete, which will be next? What has he played in the past?
I have so many questions I would have loved to ask him. Thoughts?
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Regarding Farming: Chemical and Organic
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=95534152
Above is a story about a couple who runs both a chemically manicured farm and an organic farm. Interesting because their views are very different, but they respect each other's POV's.
Above is a story about a couple who runs both a chemically manicured farm and an organic farm. Interesting because their views are very different, but they respect each other's POV's.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Lunch and Dinner
Lunch:
Turkey, Smoked Prosciutto, Sliced Pear (fresh), Gorgonzola and Whole Wheat Oven Toasted Bread : Place ingredients on bread open faced in toaster for 7 minutes (until you can easily spread the cheese with a knife). The best part is that all of these ingredients cost about $10 for a several day supply. Much healthier and more economical than the deli!!
Dinner:
Radishes - 5 small/medium, quartered with a teaspoon of OO and a dash of salt.
Tomato - small, quartered with a dash of salt.
Brussel Sprouts - 5 small, halved with a dash of salt.
Purple Mashed Potatoes - Yes, purple/blue (just like Terra Chips).
4 medium sized (boiled)
a little less than a quarter cup of soy milk
3 tablespoons butter
salt (to taste)
Mash up and mix together, topped with goat cheese.
Tonight, I felt like keeping it simple and enjoying each individual flavor (because I'll admit, it is a very odd dinner).
Sometimes that's the key to happiness: simplicity.
More Schools and Food
This time, from the Washington Post.
I think this is a strong example of the debate between banning treats all together v. having treats every once in a while. I don't really know why we ever started rewarding ourselves with food, we are not dogs and there are tons of other ways to encourage and reward good behavior or high test scores. (Some examples: books, school supplies, extra study hall time... to name a few)
Sweets are not the problem - the problem is over eating. If we eat these treats simply because they are available at a cheaper cost, then consumption becomes access-habit and no longer an enjoyment. Pastries, cakes, ice cream, etc are an artform on their own and we should teach children (and ourselves) to consume such delacies in moderation and for the right causes.
Obviously this article goes beyond desserts and also talks about pizzas, fries, etc.
My basic point: Adults need to practice healthy consumption habits if they expect children to do the same.
Munch down on this article...
Slimming Down Schools: A la Carte Menus, Parents Often Thwart Cafeteria Makeovers
By Lori Aratani
I think this is a strong example of the debate between banning treats all together v. having treats every once in a while. I don't really know why we ever started rewarding ourselves with food, we are not dogs and there are tons of other ways to encourage and reward good behavior or high test scores. (Some examples: books, school supplies, extra study hall time... to name a few)
Sweets are not the problem - the problem is over eating. If we eat these treats simply because they are available at a cheaper cost, then consumption becomes access-habit and no longer an enjoyment. Pastries, cakes, ice cream, etc are an artform on their own and we should teach children (and ourselves) to consume such delacies in moderation and for the right causes.
Obviously this article goes beyond desserts and also talks about pizzas, fries, etc.
My basic point: Adults need to practice healthy consumption habits if they expect children to do the same.
Munch down on this article...
Slimming Down Schools: A la Carte Menus, Parents Often Thwart Cafeteria Makeovers
By Lori Aratani
Social and Commercial Interaction
I just found an interesting study that claims consumers prefer that companies interact directly with them - especially through social networking sites.
What do you think?
I personally do not want to be targeted by companies. If I have a comment for one of their products I will seek them out. They should be easily accessible for consumers to come to them, but I do not want to hear from them. Also, according to the numbers below, I do not see that most consumers want to be contacted (pay attention to the ages). I would be curious to see the demographics of this study.
Please note that the below was taken from Research Brief: From the Center of Media Research.
Consumers Want to Interact With Companies on Social Media
56% of American consumers feel both a stronger connection with, and better served by, companies when they can interact with them in a social media environment.
Mike Hollywood, director of new media for Cone, observes that "... social media... it isn't an intrusion into their lives, but rather a welcome channel for discussion."
When Americans were asked about specific types of interactions:
43% say that companies should use social networks to solve my problems
41% want companies to solicit feedback on their products and services
37% feel that companies should develop new ways for consumers to interact with their brand
33% of men and 17% of women interact frequently (one or more times per week) with companies via social media
"The ease and efficiency of online conversation is likely a draw for men who historically do not seek out the same level of interaction with companies as women," says Hollywood. 33% of younger, hard-to-reach consumers (ages 18-34), believe companies should actively market to them via social networks, and the same is true of the wealthiest households (household income of $75,000+). Two-thirds of the wealthiest households and the largest households (3 or more members) feel stronger connections to brands they interact with online.
What do you think?
I personally do not want to be targeted by companies. If I have a comment for one of their products I will seek them out. They should be easily accessible for consumers to come to them, but I do not want to hear from them. Also, according to the numbers below, I do not see that most consumers want to be contacted (pay attention to the ages). I would be curious to see the demographics of this study.
Please note that the below was taken from Research Brief: From the Center of Media Research.
Consumers Want to Interact With Companies on Social Media
56% of American consumers feel both a stronger connection with, and better served by, companies when they can interact with them in a social media environment.
Mike Hollywood, director of new media for Cone, observes that "... social media... it isn't an intrusion into their lives, but rather a welcome channel for discussion."
When Americans were asked about specific types of interactions:
43% say that companies should use social networks to solve my problems
41% want companies to solicit feedback on their products and services
37% feel that companies should develop new ways for consumers to interact with their brand
33% of men and 17% of women interact frequently (one or more times per week) with companies via social media
"The ease and efficiency of online conversation is likely a draw for men who historically do not seek out the same level of interaction with companies as women," says Hollywood. 33% of younger, hard-to-reach consumers (ages 18-34), believe companies should actively market to them via social networks, and the same is true of the wealthiest households (household income of $75,000+). Two-thirds of the wealthiest households and the largest households (3 or more members) feel stronger connections to brands they interact with online.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Articles Regarding Education and School Food
Good Morning!
The day is bright and warm and I just remembered a few quick NY Times articles I wanted to share with you regarding school food and the future of education.
By Gerri Hirshey, 9/26/08, NY Times
This article addresses a program and innitiative that is very close to my heart: healthful local food for children in our public school systems. There is no reason why we should not, as the American society on a whole, be able to to provide our children with the most in-season foods from our local farmers.
Hirshey's piece brought me back to Morgan Spurlocks documentary, Super Size Me, several years ago. There was a segment in which they discussed a "bad-behavioral" school with a "normal" school. At the special school they feed students healthy breakfast and lunches (whole grain pastas, no fried foods, no soda or power drinks, etc) and made the kids part of the food preparation process, as opposed to the "normal" school diet which did not (mainly cheap, sugary, and high in calories). They found astonishing advancements in the students' concentration levels, grades, attitudes, and all around health. They were never "bad", they were hyped up on sugar!
By Winnie Hu, 10/7/08, NY Times
By Motoko Rich, 10/5/08, NY Times
Both of these have to deal with bringing video games in the classroom. I share mixed thoughts.
First of all, I had video games when I was in elementary school - part of our computer literacy class. Typing games, math and reading games, Oregon Trail, etc. But, they were part of the computer class, not the subject with which they were dealing (math, history, literature, etc).
While I am fearful that children will no longer be excited about sitting down and losing themselves in a book for the pure pleasure of doing so, I met a lady Friday evening who pronounced a point I had never thought of: texting as sequences of letters to form words. Yes, yes, texting is not gaming, I know, but it is a "new" technology and approach to typing communication.
I have my doubts, but that could be the very little bit of conservatism I have in me. However, I'm going to keep digging down in the soil to find more studies that spark more thought!
ENJOY THE BOUNTY!!
Friday, October 10, 2008
Welcome!
I feel as though it has taken months, even years to create this website. Mostly due to the fact that there are just too many things that interest my little brain! While this isn't a terrible aspect of my character, it does make honing in on what I really want to do and who I truly want to be a tad bit difficult.
Without taking too much time to introduce you to my intentions, as you will see they are pretty straight forward with my postings, I would like to address a few points of motivation:
1. Living and working in New York City for the past few years has formed me into a new person. I am constantly on the go, witnessing all different kinds people and their habits. Experiencing the premiere platforms for news, advertising and entertainment. Every day is exciting, thrilling, frightening, and all together inspiring.
2. Growing up in a small town (the population was 4,000 soaking wet) I was raised with being close to our neighbors, knowing everything about everyone (vise versa), and always wanting to break away from my sheltered youth. Looking back now, however, I find that I wasn't nearly as claustrophobic as I had perceived myself to be. My appreciation for the history, fine food, art, music, friends, family, gardens, farmland, etc, etc, keeps me going back for more and seeking out those values here in New York.
3. There is just too much for me not to want to talk. I read everything from the New York Times to SELF magazine. I listen to everything from NPR to The Cure. I watch everything from the 2008 Presidential Debates to Gossip Girl. And, lucky for you who reads, I want to share them and all of my opinions that go along with.
More importantly - I want to hear back from you. My opinions are only that: opinions. In this day and age we really have no other option than to be open minded and respectful of others thoughts, beliefs and ways of life. If I've learned anything in my life it is that there is a reason for everything... while we may not always agree, we must try to understand.
I hope that these postings spark ideas and conversations - a friendly harvest, if you will.
Bon Apetit!
Without taking too much time to introduce you to my intentions, as you will see they are pretty straight forward with my postings, I would like to address a few points of motivation:
1. Living and working in New York City for the past few years has formed me into a new person. I am constantly on the go, witnessing all different kinds people and their habits. Experiencing the premiere platforms for news, advertising and entertainment. Every day is exciting, thrilling, frightening, and all together inspiring.
2. Growing up in a small town (the population was 4,000 soaking wet) I was raised with being close to our neighbors, knowing everything about everyone (vise versa), and always wanting to break away from my sheltered youth. Looking back now, however, I find that I wasn't nearly as claustrophobic as I had perceived myself to be. My appreciation for the history, fine food, art, music, friends, family, gardens, farmland, etc, etc, keeps me going back for more and seeking out those values here in New York.
3. There is just too much for me not to want to talk. I read everything from the New York Times to SELF magazine. I listen to everything from NPR to The Cure. I watch everything from the 2008 Presidential Debates to Gossip Girl. And, lucky for you who reads, I want to share them and all of my opinions that go along with.
More importantly - I want to hear back from you. My opinions are only that: opinions. In this day and age we really have no other option than to be open minded and respectful of others thoughts, beliefs and ways of life. If I've learned anything in my life it is that there is a reason for everything... while we may not always agree, we must try to understand.
I hope that these postings spark ideas and conversations - a friendly harvest, if you will.
Bon Apetit!
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