Fantasy v. Reality

Your favorite football team needs to get a stop in the final two minutes in order to win the game. You’ve been sitting on the edge of you seat for almost three hours trying to will your team to a victory. Which is exactly what I was doing earlier this season during the Steelers, Ravens game. Cheering my heart out for the Steelers so they could beat up on the rival Ravens. When the Steelers took a late fourth quarter lead I jumped with joy, knowing that the Steelers defense wouldn’t let me down. Taking a break from the action I took a peak at my fantasy football team, and my heart sunk.

It’s every football fans biggest nightmare. When you need your team to lose in order for your fantasy team to win. There used to be two types of NFL fans. Those who are die-hard and bleed their team’s colors and those who are bandwagon fans or who only watch the Super Bowl (usually just for the commercials). When fantasy football started to become popular it introduced a new breed of NFL fan, the fantasy football junkie. These junkies root for one team, “Fantasy Champ 3000” (or enter in any cliché fantasy football team name you want). These so called fans only care about their fantasy team and some of the most extreme junkies wish for their opponents star players to get hurt. Die-hard fans can also become junkies and sometimes they are forced to make a choice in which team they want to win this weekend, fantasy or reality.

My choice was forced upon me during the Steeler’s game. My opponent had Steelers defense and if they allowed a touchdown to the Ravens in the final drive, I would most likely win my fantasy game. I had always told myself I would pick reality over fantasy if it every came down to it, but it can be a little different when it actually happens to you. I stayed in the real world and wanted my Steelers to win, but they didn’t.

It was rough, but at least I could have a decent football weekend with my fantasy team winning, but they didn’t either. I call it a black weekend, when your fantasy team and your favorite team lose in the same weekend.

Fantasy football has made countless people huge fans of the NFL, but has it somewhat tarnished the game. Junkies only care about how many points their team has and all the fundamentals of fandom are thrown out the window. Fantasy owners need to be reminded that there is more to the game of football than fantasy.

Drake "Take Care" Album Review

Back in the summer of 2009, I was Internet surfing and came across a song titled “The Winner”. I instantly became a Drake fan after those four and a half minutes. He had the lyricism, delivery, and swagger of a veteran. Fast forward two years later and Drake is at the top of the hip-hop world, already having a platinum debut album and countless hits under his belt. With “Take Care”, the 25-year-old Toronto native showcases a personal feel that very few artists can pull off.

“Over My Dead Body” kicks the album off with a piano-driven beat and chorus from Canadian singer Chantal Kreviazuk. On his second verse, Drake proclaims “Second album, I’m back paving the way/The backpackers are back on the bandwagon /Like this was my comeback season back, back in the day”. Drake’s confidence is undeniable on this track. “Take Care” is the album’s biggest mainstream offering and a future No.1 hit. Rihanna delivers a melodic chorus while Drake gives his take on the love game. His line “Pushing me away so I give her space/Dealing with a heart that I didn’t break,” exemplifies what the song is all abou

“Marvin’s Room/Buried Alive Interlude” is one of my favorite tracks from the album. Drake is reminiscing on past relationships while having a few drinks. He says, “The woman that I would try is happy with a good guy/But I’ve been drinking so much that Imma call her anyway”. An ode to drunk-dialing if I’ve ever heard one. On the interlude, Kendrick Lamar delivers a poetic take on the rappers’ encounter. This was the highlight of the album for me. On “Make Me Proud ”, Drake gives a nod to independent women everywhere. Nicki Minaj is featured on this song and absolutely lays it down. Her flow and delivery are something to be admired.

“Look What You’ve Done” is essentially an open letter to his mother, uncle and grandma. It is also one of the most open and honest looks into and artist’s past struggles that I can remember. When referencing to his father, Drake says “And my father living in Memphis now-he can’t come this way/Over some minor charges and child support that just wasn’t paid/Damn, boo-hoo, sad story, black American dad story”. On “The Motto”, Drake teams up with his mentor Lil Wayne to deliver a party anthem that is inspired by the Bay Area’s hyphy music scene. Lyrically, it's not the most awe-inspiring track in the world but it does make you just want to get up and move. The chorus sums it up, “You only live once: that’s the motto, YOLO”

Rating: 8/10

Who Do You Celebrate With?

The Holiday season is a time to celebrate with those closest to you. It’s a time to get together and eat, talk and spend time with your family. For many college students who attend college out of state or away from their family though, it may be a lonely day, or one that does not have the same meaning to those who have family close by.

For people who do not have any immediate family in the southern California area, the holidays are often a time to see who your true family is. It may be your closest friends who invite you to their house, a boyfriend or girlfriend or someone you never expected to extend an invitation to ensure you are not alone during the Holiday season.

From first-hand experience, it is a great feeling when people take the time to invite you to a gathering and make you feel welcome. It can really make the difference between a good and bad day.

If you are one of those people who get invited to someone else’s house for the holidays, make sure you are polite and grateful. Always RSVP ahead time and express your gratitude for the invitation, whether you decide to go or not. It is also always polite to ask if there is anything you can bring or contribute. No one likes a moocher.

Remember to dress nice and try to talk to everyone. If someone was nice enough to invite you to share the holidays with them and their family, the least you can do is be polite and get to know people at the party or gathering you attend.

For those of you who have a lot of family that live close by, and are lucky enough to spend every holiday with them, remember to not forget about your friends, co-workers or classmates who may not have anything to do.

For the upcoming holidays, I hope everyone has people around them to celebrate with and enjoy a great end to 2011!

5 things to remember to ensure your graduation

The 2011 fall semester is coming to an end and thus another semester less until you graduate from college. Class registrations should be finishing up, or finished by now and students are feeling that bit of laziness overcoming the few weeks before finals. This is the time when students should be making sure they’re on track to graduate on their expected date. The stress of finals will be too great and the relief of winter break will be too much of a distraction to have your mind set on school stuff. Figure it out before finals week!

Here is a list of thing CSUF students should think about before they find the shock of realizing that they are one class short or graduating.

1.) Make sure you’re on track.

Make sure that you have all of your classes planned until you’re last semester here at CSUF. I’m not saying that you need to have an exact list of classes you want to take and when. But just have a general idea. Know how many more units you need to graduate, know what requirements you still need to take and plan accordingly.

2.) Get your internship done.

Don’t make the same mistake I did. I’ve put off my internship until my last semester and now I’m stuck with the pressure of finding an internship and looking forward to add that with 12 units of collateral (I’ll talk more about collateral classes later). If I don’t get an internship, I’ll have to try to find one in the summer. GET IT DONE.

Collaterals: I’m a transfer student. I’m a Communications major concentrating in Journalism. Comm majors are required to complete collateral classes to complete the degree. These are a list of classes that are pretty much upper division classes that aren’t comm classes. You don’t have to complete them if you’re a double major or pick up a minor. It’s better to have that minor on your degree than nothing at all, you need to take extra classes anyways. My biggest mistake in college is not taking up a minor. Collaterals are a waste, comm majors.

3.) See a counselor.

You may think you know everything you have to do, and that you’re on the right track to graduate in four years. You’re not. Print out your Titan Degree Audit and have someone at your college look at it, it doesn’t take very long. These people know what to look for. It’s always good just to have a second set of eyes look at that nine-page-to-do list just in case you have missed something.

4.) EWP

Don’t know what that means? Better check your audit. The Examination in Writing Proficiency (EWP) is a writing test that all CSUF students are required to take in order to graduate. You need to reserve a spot on set EWP test dates. Don’t find yourself stuck without a seat on your last chance to take the test. It also cost $20.

Tip: Don’t write in all caps. You will fail.

5.) Register for Graduation!

If you’re a senior and you know if go to your portal online and register to graduate! Make sure you select the right graduation date and make sure you pay your graduation payment and diploma fee.

Black Friday, An Overview

Since the 1960s, retailers have been referring to the day after Thanksgiving as “Black Friday.” This indicates the beginning of the holiday season, but also the day in which retailers try to draw in as large of a profit as possible. Companies can make close to 40 percent of their annual income on this day. So with many American’s wallets being tight and the economy not seeing any significant changes for the better, many Americans were aggressively shopping for deals this year. At the Mall of America in Minnesota, there were 15,000 people lined up outside by midnight Thursday, and the mall was expected to exceeded last year’s total of 200,000 shoppers (according to the New York Times).

With the increase in shoppers and many stores opening earlier this year, you had to be prepared for marathon crowds if you were out shopping. Having personally worked Black Friday, I witnessed power outages, people fainting, and mobs of angry and aggressive customers just within the first few hours. There were also numerous reports of violence in California. A woman at a Wal-Mart used pepper spray to get first dibs on a Nintendo Wii, causing 20 people to have to be treated for minor injuries. Also, in San Leandro, California a man was shot in a parking lot during an attempted robbery. At Union Square in San Francisco, Occupy Wall Street protesters staged a sit-in outside Macy’s to protest supporting large corporation greed, causing two-hour traffic delays and congestion.

However, despite all the mayhem, shoppers were still buying in large amounts. According to NPR, the Thanksgiving shopping weekend last year accounted for 12.1 percent of overall holiday sales. Black Friday made up about half of that. This year buyers spent $11.4 billion at retail stores and malls, up nearly $1 billion from last year. It was the largest amount ever spent on Black Friday, and the biggest year-over-year increase since 2007.

As Scott Simon wrote for NPR, “Even if you decry commercialism in a season that celebrates spirit, faith and family, it's hard to root against sales that could create more jobs when the unemployment rate is above 9 percent.” This puts a new perspective on crazed shoppers and the retailers that seem to promote the frenzy. Shoppers are theoretically out shopping for others, and hopefully with good intentions. Although it does seem that next year on Black Friday, a bullet-proof vest will be a requirement.  

What Thanksgiving is Really All About

As a student it can be easy to get caught up in the Thanksgiving hype and forget what it is really all about. Some people are just so happy to have work or school off and to eat lots of great food, they don't truly think about the meaning behind Thanksgiving and how important it is! With our busy lives, jam packed with jobs, homework and errands, we don't always have the time to spend with family.  Thanksgiving is that one time of year where we all come together and think about things that we are thankful for. 

Unfortunately, because the economy has been so bad, many retailers have tried to entice customers to come in by changing "Black Friday" into "Brown Thursday." Forcing retail workers to leave their families and friends just so big corporations can turn a bigger profit is sad. Everyone should be able to spend their Thanksgiving with their families and friends. 

Toys R Us is opening at 9 p.m. and Walmart will be opening at 10 p.m. Thanksgiving day, while places like Kohl's, Target, Best Buy and Banana Republic will be opening up at midnight. Last year, Sears was one of the first stores to announce they would be opening on Brown Thursday, however they are not repeating their Brown Thursday opening because there wasn't a great turn out and noticed a lot of customers were annoyed that they were leaving their families to shop.

As a society we need to realize that although Brown Thursday and Black Friday are great opportunities to score big on deals that otherwise wouldn't be available, we should take this time to appreciate what we do have and help others that are in need. Besides, I know you are all sick of the crazy Target workout lady commercials...

I am thankful for my family, friends and my future. I am thankful that I will have food on my table this Thanksgiving and won't have to worry about having a roof over my head. What are you all thankful for?

Happy Thanksgiving!

Internet Poker

"Black Friday," not to be confused with the day after Thanksgiving, has been dubbed by the online poker community as the infamous day when the top online poker sites (Pokerstars, Fulltilt, and Absolute Poker) were forced to stop allowing US players to play for real money.

Before "Black Friday," online poker was at its peak and was generating billions of dollars through US players alone. While online poker is still being played globally, the market for Internet poker has taken a huge hit since the US was by far the largest contributor.

The backlash?

Well, considering Pokerstars, Fulltilt, and Absolute Poker are all run through different countries, the US economy didn't have much to lose by banning online poker in the US, but arguably had a great deal to gain. Billions of dollars were being poured out of the US and into the hands of foreign countries, as poker sites are unable to be run through the US due to America's gambling laws. Therefore, many Americans who are no longer able to play Internet poker, are likely contributing more to the US economy, either by playing poker in US casinos, or by spending what would normally be their gambling money on other things.

In my opinion, "Black Friday" was a clever ploy by the US Government to benefit the economy. The economy has been in a terrible recession, and an act of desperation was taken by the US Government to increase revenue streams by attempting to shutdown online poker in the US. While many would argue that the US would have been much better off legalizing Internet poker and cashing in on the Internet poker market rather than banning it, passing laws takes a lot time, and the US economy doesn't have much time to waste. On the other hand, shutting down the top poker sites in the US only took 1 day, April 15th, 2011.

Fight On!

It’s that time of year again! The USCTrojans will taking on the UCLA Bruins on Saturday, November 26, 2011 at the Coliseum at 7:00 p.m. (PST).

Tailgating has become one of USC’s greatest traditions. There’s nothing like being around ‘SC fans having a few beers and BBQ’ing. Those who have never experienced a USC tailgate will probably think it’s an exaggeration to say it’s one of the most massive and exciting events anyone can ever attend. It’s true! I went to my first tailgate last year at the Rose Bowl and I had the time of my life. I have never experience anything like it and I have made it a tradition to attend every year.

Location:

If you decide to throw a tailgate party, location is key. If you plan to tailgate on campus or in the parking lot you want to get there around 8 a.m., to secure a spot. Last year my friends and I got there around 10 a.m., and it was crowded. A little word of advice, park near a restroom. Trust me, you will thank me later.

On campus the ideal spots to tailgate would be near the Traveler Statue, which is the USC mascot and appears at all home football games, next to Tommy Trojan where it sits in the center of the campus, and McCarthy Quad.

Food:

It’s not a tailgate without food. BBQ your favorite plate such as, tri trip, burgers, hot dogs, ribs, kabobs, chicken, along with sandwiches, chips, and potato salad. Don’t forget your beer!

Dress Wisely:

Rule #1: Do not wear the opponent’s colors. If you are seen wearing blue, gold, or any Bruin attire you will most likely be heckled. Keep it USC friendly and wear cardinal, gold and black attire such as, jerseys, sweaters, ‘SC shirts and beanies, face/body paintings, Mardi Gras beads and other ‘SC accessories.

Tradition:

At USC, the week before the game is known as “Troy Week” or, more popularly, “Conquest!,” which began in 2004 to bring athletic, academics, school spirit and traditions in the week leading up to the USC-UCLA football game. During this week the Tommy Trojan statue is covered in bubble wrap and duct tape to prevent UCLA vandalism.

The day of the game students and fans kick the flag posts on Trousdale on their way to the Coliseum because doing so, of course, is a time-honored tradition.

Before the game, try to learn as many of the songs and chants as you can. Game day staples include the “Fight On” symbol and the words to the Alma Mater.

Have Fun:

The point of tailgating is to have fun, but don’t become a drunk mess where you are not going to enjoy yourself or remember the game. Get together with your friends and walk around to show off your ‘SC pride and participate in the “UCLA sucks” chants. Remember, it’s a friendly rivalry and we’re all there to have fun!

Black Friday

It is hard not to notice that Black Friday is approaching with all the advertisements, there is no escaping it. Truthfully, The thought of Black Friday makes me cringe. I do not understand the craziness of it all. I do love a good deal but it seems like Black Friday has it price tag too. I have a few issues with when it comes this November 25th.

Shopping on Black Friday means you pay the price for rudeness, crowds and just an outright headache. Waiting in long lines and camping out in the cold is not my thing. I do not think no one item is that important to me or I would rather pay the extra money to not have to deal with those things. I guess I am just impatient but it all seems like such a hassle. People seem to be more impolite when shopping on Black Friday because they are on some type of mission and no one can stand in their way to get that perfect item.

Another thing, is it really Black Friday if most deals start the day before or even the week before? Poor Thanksgiving it just gets looked over and it seems Black Friday is a more important event or holiday. The day designated to be thankful for all you have is ironically pushed aside to buy more things to be thankful for. I read that the deals start so early in the morning because people like to have their Thanksgiving dinner then want to go shop right after. Personally, I like to enjoy my holidays and relax; I cannot imagine a whole night of shopping after a big dinner with my whole family.

Black Friday madness really can upset me because people often forget what is important. I would think in a not so great economy people would come to realize it is not all about running out and buying things but it does not seem that way. I do not have a problem with gift giving but it seems to be under appreciated these days. I also miss the value of Thanksgiving and really celebrating what it has to offer.

Fullerton Artwalk

Living Art

The first Friday of every month Jim and Ann Thacker showcase, view and discuss art.

No, the couple are not at a ritzy home in residential Fullerton, discussing art while sipping wine and tasting cheese with other hill dwellers. The two are the owners of Village Art Center, a custom framing business and gallery on Chapman and Harbor, and are part of a community event that brings art downtown.

Downtown Fullerton Art Walk takes place the First Friday of every month from 6 to 10 p.m. The monthly event features 26 art galleries, most of which are shops and restaurants that have been transformed from their day time gigs.

This is one of the great features of living Downtown. The town transforms from business and shopping to culture, art, and a downtown scene during the night.

Jim and Ann Thacker know it best, as they have owned a local business in the community of Fullerton for several years. According to Jim Thacker, Fullerton itself has undergone a transformation. In the 80's and 90's the town was run down and lacking a personality, but the renovation of Downtown is breathing life back into Fullerton.

The Thackers are working to help bring back Fullerton to its full potential.

Every small town or city should embrace the arts and follow Fullerton's example.

http://fullertonartwalk.com/

"You don't smell like Santa!"

There are some holiday-themed movies that just never get old. This season just wouldn’t be the same without curling up on the couch with a blanket, a cup of hot cocoa, and a good Christmas film. There are many great films to choose from, but here are a few of my favorites:

5. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)

Though the premise is, admittedly, rather sad, over the years this film has become a beloved tale of the value of friendship, family, and the joys of life – all things that are at the heart of the Christmas spirit.

4. The Nightmare Before Christmas

This one almost needs a category of its own, but my list feels incomplete without it. As it deals with two of my favorite holidays, Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas is a staple film in both October and December. Almost like a uniquely-twisted “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas,” Burton’s classic film about a skeleton who tries to be Santa brings laughter and joy every holiday season. And they sing!

3. Love Actually

If you love romance-themed holiday films, Love Actually is definitely the film for you. There are eight separate story lines that, somehow, all connect back to each other in the end. It’s sent against the backdrop of the Christmas season and is sure to warm your heart.

2. Elf (2003)

One of Will Ferrell’s best films, Elf provides a lot of laughs and a lot of good cheer. Ferrell plays a human raised by Santa’s elves, and he gets himself into a lot of hilarious Christmas antics – including calling out a mall Santa as a fake (“You smell like beef and cheese, you don’t smell like Santa!”). The film provides great music (Zooey Deschanel sings), and by the end you might believe in Santa, too – or, you’ll at least believe in Buddy the Elf.

1. A Christmas Story (1983)

The story of a young boy’s epic quest to get the perfect Christmas present – a Red Ryder BB gun – provides the plot for this classic film. With a combination of family hijinks, frozen tongues, and hilarious other antics, A Christmas Story is a memorable season flick.