5creflections

1. Who is your classmate, what is the component category, what is the name of the choice?
Lizabeth Magana, group #2 authors: Tobar, Steinbeck, Humes, Warshaw


2. What is something this classmate said about the choice that relates to any of the assignments in projects 2-3?
Freeways are connections to the places we visit. All of beautiful California is connected by freeways. It's inland cities and tiny beach towns. All cultures are combined through them. They often lead to different and exciting places, and along the way we develop memories of traveling along them.


3. What is something different this classmate said about their choice that you did not realize before when you completed projects 2-3?
I didn't realize that Seal Beach was a small trusting community, or that California was the name originally given by an author describing a Utopian island. California is such a beautiful state, there is nothing like it in the world, people from all over the world have come to live in this little piece of paradise.


4. How would you relate this to Freire's ideas regarding dialogue? For example, you went in thinking one idea, your classmate had a different idea. What new idea emerged from this process?
I went in thinking that my love of California was shared by only a few people living here today. I have realized that California was beloved of people since they first set eyes on it. It was and is known as a place of magnificence and beauty.


5. How has project 2-3 helped you with the readings of the textbook?
Through projects 2-3, I was able to combine all the beautiful cities and beaches of the state into one large panorama that makes up California. It is a diverse and unique state that has been loved by people for centuries.

5breflections

Who is your classmate, what is the component category, what is the name of the choice?
Rosio Serrano,component 4a group#3 authors: Dumas, Major, Chabon, Kamen Goldmark.

2. What is something this classmate said about the choice that relates to any of the assignments in projects 2-3?
California culture is composed of many different cultures. In "Bienvenidos a Newport Beach," by Firoozeh Dumas, the author describes the hardships of emigrating to a new country, and the culture shock associated with it. Yet, amidst the hardships, families still manage to maintain a strong identity that combines their old world with the new one. This combining of two cultures can be seen in any world cities, such as Los Angeles and San Francisco, not only Newport Beach.

3. What is something different this classmate said about their choice that you did not realize before when you completed projects 2-3?
I learned that Berkeley is a city of culture and intelligence. It's where you can go to discover who you are and what you want to be. It is a place that many people don't appreciate, but If you learn to understand the culture, you will love the city forever.

4. How would you relate this to Freire's ideas regarding dialogue? For example, you went in thinking one idea, your classmate had a different idea. What new idea emerged from this process?
I thought of Berkeley as a place where eclectic and dynamic people with new and far-fetched ideas go and develop even more far-fetched ideas. I have learned that Berkeley is a city where you go and realize who you are. You develop an identity here, and learn to love this dynamic city.
5. How has project 2-3 helped you with the readings of the textbook?
Projects 2-3 helped me with the readings of the textbook because I was able to recognize and have a bit of history and information on the culture of the area I was reading about.

5aGroup#1

1. Write the story title and author name. .25 point

"909," by Percival Everett

2. Summarize the reading in one brief paragraph; be specific in your summary. Remember that your classmates will rely on you for this information. 2 percent

This short story was about Riverside County (they have a 909 area code). Riverside County is in the hilly desert known as the Badlands, about halfway to Palm Springs. The hills are beautiful with all types of flora and fauna living amongst them. There area is a stark contrast to the crazy environment of Palm Springs or Los Angeles. Here in Riverside county, there's only beautiful brown and yellow hills filled with coyotes, bobcats, and geckos. This is where you can ride your mule up the into the hills, look over the desert and see the 60 freeway. This freeway is packed with cars going here and there while going nowhere in particular. But, from the rugged hills of Riverside County, they are like tiny specks, almost nonexistent among the Badlands.

3. Which was your favorite sentence or paragraph (include entire quote; use quote marks and page number)? 1 percent

My favorite paragraph is when Everett is describing the flora and fauna of the Badlands. I can picture the beauty of the hills in his words. "Technically, the badlands is chaparral. The hills are filled with sage, wild mustard, fiddleheads, and live oaks. Bobcats, meadowlarks, geckos, horned lizards, red-tailed hawks, kestrels, coach whip snakes, king snakes, gopher snakes. Rattlesnakes and coyotes. We don't see rain for seven months out of the year and when we do we often flood. In the spring, the hills are green. They are layered and gorgeous. This is in contrast to the rest of the year when the hills are brown and ochre and layered and gorgeous." (Everett,122)

4. What did the reading make you think of? (be specific eg "There is a bridge in SF that spans 4 miles from SF to Oakland and in the middle of the bridge it crosses an island called Treasure Island. This story makes me think of that specific little island where I can see the entire city and bay area. That city was also in the news recently where .... ) .75 percent

The story made me think of the beautiful area surrounding Palm Springs and Los Angeles. Out in Riverside county there is a completely different world. It also made me think of how, long ago, the entire area was like Riverside county. Los Angeles was not yet a city of movie stars, skyscrapers, and smog. Instead there were lush and green hills in the spring, while during the rest of the year,"brown and ochre and layered and gorgeous."

5. What is one thing you did not know before you started the reading that you now know (again be specific using concrete examples)? 1 percent

I had no idea that in between Los Angeles and Palm Springs there is lazy Riverside County that acts as an oasis from the drama of the two cities it falls between.

1. Write the story title and author name. .25 point

"The Line," by Ruben Martinez

2. Summarize the reading in one brief paragraph; be specific in your summary. Remember that your classmates will rely on you for this information. 2 percent

This is the story of "the line," the border between California and Mexico. In the years before the deep recession during the '90s, the border at Tijuana was the most popular crossing place of migrants. Every evening, a large crowd of people from all over Central America, as well as a few other countries, would gather on a soccer field a mile from downtown Tijuana, and plan the crossing of the line. It was almost a guaranteed event. If you missed the first time, you were sure to succeed the second time. During the planning, there were soccer matches between rivals, vendors selling oodles of things, and food, lots of stew and carne asada. But, that was before the recession, now Border Patrol has expanded. It is surrounded in a harsh glow by light towers and steel walls. Still, against the odds, migrants are working towards their victory, speaking out, crossing the line, though it be in the dark.

3. Which was your favorite sentence or paragraph (include entire quote; use quote marks and page number)? 1 percent

My favorite part of the story was when Martinez described what it was like crossing the border before the recession. This could be seen as a happy and even festive event. "It was like a fiesta back then, like a Fourth of July barbecue or a Sixteenth of September fiesta; everyone was celebrating in anticipation of crossing. Back then, chances were better than fifty-fifty that you would get across on your first attempt. And even if you were nabbed by the migra, you'd surely get across on your second try, probably that same night." (Martinez, 128)

4. What did the reading make you think of? (be specific eg "There is a bridge in SF that spans 4 miles from SF to Oakland and in the middle of the bridge it crosses an island called Treasure Island. This story makes me think of that specific little island where I can see the entire city and bay area. That city was also in the news recently where .... ) .75 percent

This story made me think of my dad's mother's family from Mexico. I don't know where she crossed the border, but it may have very well been in Tijuana because now she lives in San Diego. I can just imagine her with her family watching the soccer games and eating carne asada before she crosses the border into California. I often wonder why she decided to come to California, because most of her family still lives in Mexico.

5. What is one thing you did not know before you started the reading that you now know (again, be specific using concrete examples)? 1 percent

I learned that the reason for tightening the border between the United States and Mexico was because the governor of California decided that migrants were the cause of the deep recession during the '90s.

1. Write the story title and author name. .25 point

"Flirting with Urbanismo," by Patt Morrison

2. Summarize the reading in one brief paragraph; be specific in your summary. Remember that your classmates will rely on you for this information. 2 percent

This is a story about Los Angeles, downtown Los Angeles. It is unique in that it's the very heart of the people. It is always changing into what it wants to be. The buildings in downtown L.A. each have their own unique and hilarious story. For example, the Bradbury building was built because the designer consulted his dead brother via the Ouija board who gave him instructions to do the job. Every corner of downtown is different from every other corner. L.A. has a culture of it's own in that it doesn't' really have a distinct culture. Instead it is an ever-changing city that has within it all cultures with a twist on all of them.

3. Which was your favorite sentence or paragraph (include entire quote; use quote marks and page number)? 1 percent

My favorite paragraph summarizes in just two sentences what the city of Los Angeles and its people really are. "Downtown is the perfect plastic heart of a plastic city-plastic in the meaning of changeable, moldable. It's blocks are the most versatile, and thus the most filmed in the world; it can play almost anything-just as Angelenos can make themselves into what they which to be." (Morrison, 134)

4. What did the reading make you think of? (be specific eg "There is a bridge in SF that spans 4 miles from SF to Oakland and in the middle of the bridge it crosses an island called Treasure Island. This story makes me think of that specific little island where I can see the entire city and bay area. That city was also in the news recently where .... ) .75 percent

The reading made me think of the differences and similarities between San Francisco and Los Angeles, especially the downtown area. San Francisco is known for it's acceptance to diversity and yet Los Angeles is a city where changes and cultures are changing every moment. Both cities are home to many cultures and beloved by them in their own way.

5. What is one thing you did not know before you started the reading that you now know (again, be specific using concrete examples)? 1 percent

I learned a lot about the downtown area of Los Angeles. For example, no one likes to actually live downtown, just shop and eat. The Angelenos don't ever jaywalk -it's a serious crime in California! Every building has a story of it's own and they are all combined to make up the character of the heart of Los Angeles.

1. Write the story title and author name. .25 point

"Waters of Tranquility," by Carolyn See

2. Summarize the reading in one brief paragraph; be specific in your summary. Remember that your classmates will rely on you for this information. 2 percent

This short story was about the Lake Shrine of the self-Realization Fellowship on Sunset Boulevard. It is a shrine to world peace. Here, people of all religions and walks of life can come and find some tranquility as they walk around the lake, or sit on one of the benches. It is here that the author has discovered about what life and death really are all about.

3. Which was your favorite sentence or paragraph (include entire quote; use quote marks and page number)? 1 percent

My favorite paragraph is the very last one, here See is telling her thoughts about life and death as she walks around the lake, thinking about her very ill life partner. "In the scheme of things where a major religion only rates a four-foot monument, a single human death may be no more than a fall of one flower, one tweaked leaf. There are so many more! And life itself may be no more than a play toy, a few Burma-Shave signs in the universe. But blazing, amazing, for all that. You can see that at the Lake Shrine. I know I did." (See, 145)

4. What did the reading make you think of? (be specific eg "There is a bridge in SF that spans 4 miles from SF to Oakland and in the middle of the bridge it crosses an island called Treasure Island. This story makes me think of that specific little island where I can see the entire city and bay area. That city was also in the news recently where .... ) .75 percent

The story made me think of life and death and how I few it. I agree with the author that life is such a small and short-lived thing when compared to the entire universe. Yet, at the same time, the most amazing and important thing that can ever happen.

5. What is one thing you did not know before you started the reading that you now know (again, be specific using concrete examples)? 1 percent

I didn't know about the shrine to world peace on Sunset Boulevard and would like very much to visit it. It would be nice to walk around the lake and sit at a bench among the gardens. It would be worth the moment of tranquility.

4cReflections:Pacific Beach and Marina del Rey

From Jeni Lyons writing on Pacific Beach and Marina del Rey, I learned that both beaches attract a more upscale crowd as they are in nicer areas of Los Angeles and San Diego. Pacific Beach is larger and may get more various types of visitors. Whearas, Marina del Rey, is smaller and, perhaps, more inclusive. It seems more likely that a rich actor might be living on the beach's waterfront.

4bReflections:San Francisco and Los Angeles

From Dorothy Guajardo, I learned that Los Angeles is home to over 12 million people speaking 224 languages. This fact alone indicates the unity of many cultures into one vast city. For those seeking fame and fortune, LA is known as the "city of dreams." In the Northern California area, San Francisco is known as the "gateway of the Pacific" because of the many people who came across the Pacific Ocean to live in the United States. With them, they brought they brought their traditions, religion, food, and language, all of which has contributed to San Francisco's identity.

4aGroup#1

Write the story title and author name. .25 point
"The Big Valley" by Mark Arax

2. Summarize the reading in one brief paragraph; be specific in your summary. Remember that your classmates will rely on you for this information. 2 percent

This story was about the area of Fresno in which Arax grew up in, and in which he still lives. Growing up as a boy Arax was surrounded by farmland. He would look outside his window and see acres and acres of fig trees. Slowly, though, the area became suburbanized and much of the farmland has now been plowed over to build a Walmart and McDonald. Yet, Arax still remembers the days when farming was more common. He often travels to the World Ag Expo in Tulare county where he gets to see the newest developments in farming. Arax realizes that he misses the days when farming was prevalent, and getting dirt under you nails as you cultivate and harvest your crops was one of the biggest rewards experienced by a person.


3. Which was your favorite sentence or paragraph (include entire quote; use quote marks and page number)? 1 percent

My favorite paragraph of "The Big Valley" was when Arax described his planting habits. To me, it showed how much farming was a part of his identity. It reminded him of his father and grandfather and gave him a feeling of being complete.


"As another orchard gets plowed under out there, I plant another pomegranate or apricot tree back here. I know it's futile, but my garden is now ample and year-round, and the dirt under my nails is honest farm dirt. The country, as my mother used to call it, is right outside my window." (Arax, 26)


4. What did the reading make you think of? (be specific eg "There is a bridge in SF that spans 4 miles from SF to Oakland and in the middle of the bridge it crosses an island called Treasure Island. This story makes me think of that specific little island where I can see the entire city and bay area. That city was also in the news recently where .... ) .75 percent


The reading made me think more of the farming communities in California. Every time I drive to San Diego, I pass a large farming area where almonds, oranges, lemons, figs, cotton, walnuts, and plums are grown. In the past, I haven't stopped to think what it would be like to own a farm, the challenges and rewards. I think it's a lifestyle that is very different than the one I am familiar with, but one that is a huge part of this state's culture and history.


5. What is one thing you did not know before you started the reading that you now know (again, be specific using concrete examples)? 1 percent


I knew that farming was widespread in the earlier days of California history, but I didn't realize that the culture still exists in very deep rooted manner among various communities.

Write the story title and author name. .25 point
"Transients in Paradise" by Aimee Liu

2. Summarize the reading in one brief paragraph; be specific in your summary. Remember that your classmates will rely on you for this information. 2 percent

The author lives in Beverly Hills. As she strolls down the streets of the city she is reminded of the quote form Italo Cavino's Invisible Cities. "Cities, like dreams, are made of desires and fears..." At first glance, Beverly Hills seems like a dream, where our desires are fulfilled. Here, multi-million dollar houses and cars can be found. In this paradise, even the rats are fulfilled as they feast on the thoughtlessly tossed fillet mignons. But, all these riches point towards one thing -fear. Beneath all the glamour and grandeur of Beverly Hills there is a fear. There are no hospitals of funerals in Beverly Hills. Only a facade of happiness. In the streets, the homeless are left that way as passerbys quickly hurry past, carrying there Prada purse and shopping in designer stores. No matter who is living in the city, no matter how rich or poor, they are all variable. Nothing is permanent. What happens one day will be gone the next And if you stay there all your life, or just three hours, it's all temporary. We are only transients, transients of paradise.

3. Which was your favorite sentence or paragraph (include entire quote; use quote marks and page number)? 1 percent

My favorite paragraph is on that I think the author writes to define the entire short story. In it, Beverly Hills is shown is simply a temporary stop, a transient position. "The wattage of that current is transience. Who is coming? Who is going? Who is staying, and for how long? A town like Beverly Hills puts up an impressive front of permanence, but no matter how massive the houses, how opulent the stores, how established the brokers of power and fame, or how deep their pockets, the truth of this place is as variable as the traffic passing down Wilshire Boulevard." ( Liu, 31)

4. What did the reading make you think of? (be specific eg "There is a bridge in SF that spans 4 miles from SF to Oakland and in the middle of the bridge it crosses an island called Treasure Island. This story makes me think of that specific little island where I can see the entire city and bay area. That city was also in the news recently where .... ) .75 percent

The story reminded me of what really matters in life. I've been to Beverly Hills and I love the glamour. But if I take a second look, it's only a facade. A mask of happiness and a carefree life. Though the owners of the multi-million dollar houses on Sunset Blvd. seem to have everything and anything they want, money doesn't by you happiness, and life is only passing. We are only transients, sojourners of a temporary paradise.

5. What is one thing you did not know before you started the reading that you now know (again, be specific using concrete examples)? 1 percent

I thought it was very interesting that Beverly Hills doesn't have a cemetery or a hospital. To me, it only adds to the facade of paradise. Suffering and death has been cast aside to make room for the shopping centers and the country clubs.

Write the story title and author name. .25 point
"Showing off the Owens" by T. Jefferson Parker

2. Summarize the reading in one brief paragraph; be specific in your summary. Remember that your classmates will rely on you for this information. 2 percent
This short story was about the author and his novelist friend, Brian Wipred from New York, who also happened to be an experienced fly-fisher. These two men are driving through Northern California for the sole purpose of fly-fishing. Parker is showing Wipred the best places in the area for this sport, and one such location happens to be the Owens River. Overlooking the waters of the river is the Sierra Nevada. It completes the stunning setting of the river. There is nothing these two men would rather be doing than fishing on a murky-gray day with the majesty of the mountains looming overhead, and experiencing the excitement of seeing the shimmering of a trout's silver scales against the darkened water.

3. Which was your favorite sentence or paragraph (include entire quote; use quote marks and page number)? 1 percent
My favorite pat of the story is when Parker describes what it's like to see catch a trout. I can understand his thrill because I have been fishing before and experienced the same excitement. "The foliage is flat gold under the brooding gray sky. The river is high-gloss black. A rainbow trout takes an elk hair caddis, explodes through the surface in a spray of bright silver and the entire world holds its breath and watches." (Parker,40)

4. What did the reading make you think of? (be specific eg "There is a bridge in SF that spans 4 miles from SF to Oakland and in the middle of the bridge it crosses an island called Treasure Island. This story makes me think of that specific little island where I can see the entire city and bay area. That city was also in the news recently where .... ) .75 percent

This story made me think of the few times that I have gone fishing with my dad and two brothers. I remember the feeling I experienced when I first saw the bass come up out of the water. It was very exciting to be rewarded for my hours of patience while waiting for a bite. Unfortunately I wasn't surrounded by the majestic Sierra Nevada (I've only been fishing in Southern California), but I have good memories of rowboat races, slimy fish, and lazy afternoons.
5. What is one thing you did not know before you started the reading that you now know (again, be specific using concrete examples)? 1 percent

I learned that the Owens river is a good fly-fishing spot in Northern California. It is not the monstrous river it used to be due to the fact that it is the water supply for many people in Southern California. There are, however, many excellent remaining spots that guarantee a fisherman a jolly good time.

Write the story title and author name. .25 point
"The Distant Cataract About Which we do not Speak: by Mary Mackey

2. Summarize the reading in one brief paragraph; be specific in your summary. Remember that your classmates will rely on you for this information. 2 percent This short story is about a woman enjoying a swim in the river in mid-July after the Sierra snow melt. Surrounding the water are brush and duckweed. Ducks, herons, beavers, rattlesnakes, and fish populate the riverside. Here, it is peaceful and one can watch the sunset amidst the quiet. Yet, if you listen too closely, you'll hear a distant hum. It is the hum of a freeway, in the city of Sacramento. The quiet river is a quiet haven in the midst of a crazy and populous city. This is Mackey and her husband come to find peace.

3. Which was your favorite sentence or paragraph (include entire quote; use quote marks and page number)? 1 percent

My favorite paragraph of the story is when the author is explains where she is and why her and her husband come to the river. "We are sitting on an island in the American River, right in the middle of Sacramento, the state capital, a metropolitan area of well over a million people, but my husband and I like to preserve our mutual delusion. We have agreed not to imagine we are not a five-minute drive from our home and a twenty-minute walk from the university where we both teach, but instead in some remote part of California where just out of sight a magnificent waterfall foams down into a green pool." (Mackey,48)

4. What did the reading make you think of? (be specific eg "There is a bridge in SF that spans 4 miles from SF to Oakland and in the middle of the bridge it crosses an island called Treasure Island. This story makes me think of that specific little island where I can see the entire city and bay area. That city was also in the news recently where .... ) .75 percent
The story made me think of how important it is that we all have a place where we can go to find some peace and solitude. Amidst the craziness of it is nice to settle down for once in awhile and get a hold of our sanity.

5. What is one thing you did not know before you started the reading that you now know (again, be specific using concrete examples)? 1 percent

I did not know that in the middle of the city of Sacramento, a piece of nature has been preserved, and that if you want to, you can swim with the beavers and dive with the ducks.

3cInland areas: Sacramento and Napa Valley

Contains a title using the format listed above .25 points

3cInland Areas: Sacramento and Napa Valley

Contains a web link to your locations. (eg you can use the tools in your blog where you paste your work; there is a little icon that looks like a link) .25 points

http://www.cityofnapa.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=221&Itemid=300

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sacramento,_California

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Napa_County,_California

Contains an explanation regarding how this component (any aspect of it; eg content of videos, content of websites) connects to your study of humanities. .25 point

Sacramento and Napa Valley both have deep roots in California history and culture. Sacramento is the capital city of the state, having its beginnings during the California gold rush, and Napa Valley is famous for it's ability to make world famous wines.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qcDbbfR9jV8

Contains the following elements that will be used in upcoming projects for analytical purposes:
What are some assumptions/stereotypes you think people have of each location: 1 point

I think that an assumption given to people living in Napa Valley is that they are all wine connoisseurs who enjoy the perfect glass. An assumption of people living in Sacramento might be that they know California's history very well since they live so close to many historical monuments.

List 3 things that make each location similar: 1 point

Both locations grew immensely during the California gold rush.

Both places are located on a river as an important aspect of transportion and food provider.

Sacramento and Napa Valley were both inhabited by indigenous people before American settlers arrived in the area.

List 3 things that make each location so different: 1 point

While Napa Valley has remained a somewhat quieter and rural area, Sacramento has grown into a large and booming city.

While Sacramento became a popular place for gold miners, Napa Valley was more popular among the silver miners, although the area did get its fair share of gold miners as well.

Sacramento has a large history of political associations, it is where the capitol building of California is located. Napa Valley has more a history of growing wine.

Questioning: What else would you like to know about these places? When completing the question section, lead your audience into the question by stating a fact you do know, yet you still have the related question. This way, both your audience and you will have an educational experience. .5 point

I learned that Napa Valley is home to native endangered Californian plants, I would like to learn more about these endangered species.

5. Using your classmates work from last week, tell us one thing you learned from 1 student. Is this one thing some common experience you share or some experience that is completely different than what you experienced? Is this one thing related to our class theoretical foundation and if so, how? Is that one thing related to historical or cultural context of this country or a different one? Link that persons blog to this entry (eg cut paste that blog entry here) . .5 point

I learned from Sophear Prom that the Sonoma County Museum has an abundance of native and historical artifacts pertaining to the history of the county that I live in.

http://sopeeaaa.blogspot.com/2008_06_01_archive.html

3bBeaches: Santa Cruz Beach and Corona del Mar State Beach

Contains a title using the format listed above .25 points

3bBeaches:Santa Cruz and Corona del Mar State Beach

Contains a web link to your locations. (eg you can use the tools in your blog where you paste your work; there is a little icon that looks like a link) .25 points

http://www.beachcalifornia.com/corona-delmar-state-beach.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Cruz_Beach_Boardwalk

http://www.beachcalifornia.com/china-cove-beach-newport.html

http://beachboardwalk.com/02_history.html

Contains an explanation regarding how this component (any aspect of it; eg content of videos, content of websites)

connects to your study of humanities. .25 point

Both beaches exhibit California's culture of the ocean. While Santa Cruz shows the amusement (it is one of the few remaining boardwalk amusement spots) and surfing side of California beaches, Corona del Mar is a hotspot for people looking for a romantic setting for a wedding or proposal, as well as a run or a hike. It is also a great place for dog-owners to spend some time with their furry friends. These beaches show only a few examples of amusements that people enjoy on the oceanfront.

Contains the following elements that will be used in upcoming projects for analytical purposes:
What are some assumptions/stereotypes you think people have of each location: 1 point

An assumption people may have of Santa Cruz Beach is that the people there are all intensely into surfing and that they are the "hang loose" type of characters.

At the beach of Corona del Mar, people may assume that the people living there are all rich and famous individuals. This may stem from the fact that Corona del Mar is located in a richer part of California.

List 3 things that make each location similar: 1 point

Each location has traditionally been a hot spot for surfers looking to ride some big waves.

Each location has been shown in various movies and TV series such as Gilligan's Island and The Naked Gun.

Both beaches offer safe and fun opportunities for families and friends to enjoy one of California's most notable attributes.

List 3 things that make each location so different: 1 point

The Santa Cruz beach boardwalk offers a wide variety of amusement rides and carnival shows. Corona del Mar offers fire pits, volleyball nets, running and hiking trails for people to make their own amusement.

While Corona del Mar was traditionally a surfing attraction, in later years it has established a large jetty that have blocked the huge waves. Santa Cruz beach, however, has continued to provide surfers with strong a thrill-filled waves.

Santa Cruz beach is well-known, even to those who have never been to the area. While Corona del Mar is well-loved among the locals, it is not as well-known to those who do not live in the area.

Questioning: What else would you like to know about these places? When completing the question section, lead your audience into the question by stating a fact you do know, yet you still have the related question. This way, both your audience and you will have an educational experience. .5 point

I learned that the Santa Cruz boardwalk has been a favorite amusement spot for over a century. I would like to learn more about how it came to be there and how it survived so long when many other boardwalks had to be shut down.

5. Using your classmates work from last week, tell us one thing you learned from 1 student. Is this one thing some common experience you share or some experience that is completely different than what you experienced? Is this one thing related to our class theoretical foundation and if so, how? Is that one thing related to historical or cultural context of this country or a different one? Link that persons blog to this entry (eg cut paste that blog entry here) . .5 point

I learned from Carolyn Sandine that SFMOMA is an art museum filled with contemporary and modern art reflecting the cultural aspects of the artists. The artists in this museum are direct participants in the subject of humanities.

http://project2a.blogspot.com/2008/06/week-2-component-b.html

3aWorld Cities: San Fransico and Santa Barbara

Contains a title using the format listed above .25 points
3a World Cities: San Francisco and Santa Barbara

Contains a web link to your locations. (eg you can use the tools in your blog where you paste your work; there is a little icon that looks like a link) .25 points

http://www.santabarbaraca.com/static/index.cfm?contentID=14
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Francisco,_California

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Barbara,_California

Contains an explanation regarding how this component (any aspect of it; eg content of videos, content of websites) connects to your study of humanities. .25 point

As with almost all large and world known cities San Francisco is home to a diverse community of people. This variety of culture is reflected in its food, music, dance, and public events. San Franciscans can enjoy the Chinese New Year's with a splendid parade, or they can join in on the colorful San Francisco Pride Parade.

Santa Barbara is a smaller, but equally famous city known for it's surfing, architecture, and scenic setting that has captivated individuals for years. To me Santa Barbara is a city that most greatly resembles it's long ago past, when the Spanish and Native Americans inhabited the region.

Contains the following elements that will be used in upcoming projects for analytical purposes:

What are some assumptions/stereotypes you think people have of each location: 1 point

I think that many people assume you have a very liberal political viewing and that you openly embrace a gay/lesbian lifestyle if you are from San Francisco.
If you are from Santa Barbara, I think that many people may assume that you are a beach lover who is easy-going and layed back about life.

List 3 things that make each location similar: 1 point

Each location is located by the ocean and heavily influenced by it. For example, the food in both San Francisco and Santa Barbara involve many seafood specialties.

Both cities are home to beautiful art museums including the de Young Museum in San Francisco and the Santa Barbara museum of art in Santa Barbara.

Both cities contain one of the California missions. These missions were built long ago by Spanish missionaries and Native Americans, they are a significant part of our California history. (The Spanish influence is shown in the names of both cities.)

List 3 things that make each location so different: 1 point

San Francisco has a much wider variety of ethnicity than Santa Barbara. (Only about 45% of non-Hispanic whites populate San Francisco compared to Santa Barbara's 74%)

Santa Barbara has a distinct old Spanish style seen in its architecture. San Francisco has a diverse architectural elements changing from location to location. For example, Chinatown has a distinct Chinese influence to its buildings, whereas, the churches in North Beach are clearly replicated from old Italian styles.

Santa Barbara has passed a law against billboards and public advertising, making the city almost completely free of annoying advertising. This gives the city a kind of old fashioned feel. San Francisco should follow in SB steps, it would make the city so less cluttered!

Questioning: What else would you like to know about these places? When completing the question section, lead your audience into the question by stating a fact you do know, yet you still have the related question. This way, both your audience and you will have an educational experience. .5 point

I know that before the Spanish, Native American tribes lived in both the areas of San Francisco and Santa Barbara. I would like to know more about the culture of the tribes and what they thought of these two areas of California.

5. Using your classmates work from last week, tell us one thing you learned from 1 student. Is this one thing some common experience you share or some experience that is completely different than what you experienced? Is this one thing related to our class theoretical foundation and if so, how? Is that one thing related to historical or cultural context of this country or a different one? Link that persons blog to this entry (eg cut paste that blog entry here) . .5 point
I learned from Dorothy that Junipero Serra (the founder of the California missions) planted the first seeds of the varietal of grape used in Mexico to make wine. Since then the California wine industry has exploded, making it an important part of California culture as the warm Mediterranean climate was used to boost the state's economy, and give California a name in the wine industry and culture.

http://dollie69.blogspot.com/2008_06_01_archive.html

2csurfing

Contains a title using the format listed above .25 points

2csurfing

Contains the sources you used with links to these sources .25 points
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surfing

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surf_culture

Contains a brief paragraph how it connects to your study of humanities. 1 point

Surfing or any sport involving the ocean has long been a favored sport among many people, but especially among those who live by the water. Surfing is just one example of the influence the ocean can have on a culture. Expertise in this sport has even been a sign of superiority in some ancient Polynesian cultures.

Contains the following "analytical elements":
Observation: What did you choose? What do you see or hear or feel or think of in the choice you made? What is the subject of the work? If you chose a 'thing' what is the work made of and what techniques (colors, lines, shapes, textures)does the creator use? Be specific in your description. If you chose a place, be specific in your description of what you see or hear. Talk to your reader as though they cannot see the item but somehow must draw a painting of what you see or hear. 1 point

I chose surfing because, though it is a sport I have not much experience in, it is something I enjoy doing very much. I love the thrill that comes when you catch your wave and it takes you along so quickly and smoothly. I can taste the saltiness of the ocean and I can feel the droplets of water as they fall around me.

Interpretation: What is your choice about? Give specific examples to support this statement in 2 sentences; do so in a way that teaches us something about your choice. Make Paulo Freire proud! .75 point

For some people, surfing has developed into a culture of its own. AT the center is the love of surfing and the thrill of the ultimate ride, as well as life “in and around the ocean.” For some dedicated surfers, the sport is for more than recreation, it’s a way to develop a sense of self.

Judgment: What led you to your choice? What do you think or feel about this choice? Why do you feel this way? Support your thoughts with specific observations. .5 point

I chose surfing because I really like it, and I was curious to learn more about it. I would like to get better at this sport as I find out more about it. The surf culture has influenced my choice of clothing in that I have purchased many items from different surf shacks.

Questioning: What else would you like to know about this choice? When completing the question section, lead your audience into the question by stating a fact you do know, yet you still have the related question. This way, both your audience and you will have an educational experience. Example: I learned that John Steinbeck's Grapes of Wrath was based on his personal experience working with farm workers. I would like to know if the characters he used in that book are fictitious or are they people he met? .5 point

I learned that surfing was part of an ancient Polynesian culture. I would like to know if any other cultures have developed the sport of surfing, or their own variation of it.

5. Using your classmates work from last week, tell us one thing you learned from 1 student. Is this one thing some common experience you share or some experience that is completely different than what you experienced? Is this one thing related to our class theoretical foundation and if so, how? Is that one thing related to historical or cultural context of this country or a different one? Link that persons blog to this entry (eg cut paste that blog entry here) . .5 point

I learned from Denya that Paulo Freire believed in liberation theology. He focused on are human God-given talents. This is an influential theology that causes cultures to concentrate on positive aspects of individuals and perhaps strengthen the bonds between them.

http://dbeaudryhuman7.blogspot.com/2008/06/week-1-project-1b.html

2bMOPA

Contains a title using the format listed above .25 points

2bMOPA (Museum of Photographic Art)

Contains the sources you used with links to these sources .25 points
www.mopa.org/

http://www.mopa.org/images/exhimage/YampolskyL.jpg


Contains a brief paragraph how it connects to your study of humanities. 1 point

The museum combines the expressions, feelings, and issues of many different cultures all captured on a photograph. I tries to reach and combine all cultures through its displays and exhibitions.

Observation: What did you choose? What do you see or hear or feel or think of in the choice you made? What is the subject of the work? If you chose a 'thing' what is the work made of and what techniques (colors, lines, shapes, textures)does the creator use? Be specific in your description. If you chose a place, be specific in your description of what you see or hear. Talk to your reader as though they cannot see the item but somehow must draw a painting of what you see or hear. 1 point

I chose the Museum of Photographic Art because, while I enjoy all aspects of art, photography is one of my favorite media. When I think of MOPA, I think of every culture of the world united in this museum, loved, understood, and recognized. I see the women washing their clothes at a river in India. I see two young girls at a school in South America learning to read and write.

Interpretation: What is your choice about? Give specific examples to support this statement in 2 sentences; do so in a way that teaches us something about your choice. Make Paulo Freire proud! .75 point

My choice is about trying to connect with all cultures about the world. By observing a photograph that portrays their routine actions I am able to better understand their customs and traditions (and I do this without even speaking a word).

Judgment: What led you to your choice? What do you think or feel about this choice? Why do you feel this way? Support your thoughts with specific observations. .5 point

I know that I can observe different cultures through many different forms of art and not just photography. I chose MOPA because the photograph shows the subject just as it is. Whereas, in a painting, a painter can use his artistic license and embellish or darken things here or there. I like seeing things as how they are, and photography does this for me.

Questioning: What else would you like to know about this choice? When completing the question section, lead your audience into the question by stating a fact you do know, yet you still have the related question. This way, both your audience and you will have an educational experience. Example: I learned that John Steinbeck's Grapes of Wrath was based on his personal experience working with farm workers. I would like to know if the characters he used in that book are fictitious or are they people he met? .5 point

I learned that MOPA desires all its viewers to experience the cultural and social issues of its subjects. I would like to learn more about these various cultures through different forms of expression, such as music and dance.

5. Using your classmates work from last week, tell us one thing you learned from 1 student. Is this one thing some common experience you share or some experience that is completely different than what you experienced? Is this one thing related to our class theoretical foundation and if so, how? Is that one thing related to historical or cultural context of this country or a different one? Link that persons blog to this entry (eg cut paste that blog entry here) . .5 point

Jeni Lyons is studying toward her goal of obtaining her AA degree. She considers school as a way to forward herself both educationally and professionally. I am going to school for the very same reasons. For hundreds of years many people from all walks of life have considered an education to be an important part of their lives.

http://jenilyons.blogspot.com/2008/06/project-1a.html

2aSanDiego

Contains a title using the format listed above .25 points

2aSanDiego

Contains the sources you used with links to these sources .25 points

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Diego

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Culture_of_San_Diego%2C_California

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6WHFgqgYzfk

Contains a brief paragraph how it connects to your study of humanities. 1 point

San Diego is a city of countless diversity. It reflects many different cultures through its art, food, museums and activities. The Mexican and East Asian cultures have been the most influential to San Diego. They have provided the city with outstanding restaurants, historical museums, and musical concerts, including those performed at Symphony Towers and Balboa park.

Observation: What did you choose? What do you see or hear or feel or think of in the choice you made? What is the subject of the work? If you chose a 'thing' what is the work made of and what techniques (colors, lines, shapes, textures)does the creator use? Be specific in your description. If you chose a place, be specific in your description of what you see or hear. Talk to your reader as though they cannot see the item but somehow must draw a painting of what you see or hear. 1 point

I chose San Diego because it is the city I was born in and I have spent a lot of my time there. When I think of San Diego I think of beautiful beaches, warm sun, and the Chargers. I love eating in some of my favorite Mexican restaurants and laughing time away with my relatives. I hear the seagulls as they greedily snag any bit of food they find. I feel the cool waves and warm sun splash around me as I swim in the ocean.

Interpretation: What is your choice about? Give specific examples to support this statement in 2 sentences; do so in a way that teaches us something about your choice. Make Paulo Freire proud! .75 point

San Diego, at least my interpretation of it, is a city rich with tradition and culture, especially the culture of Mexico. It reflects this culture through its restaurants, concerts, and architecture (including the San Diego Mission). San Diego is also a city beside an ocean. The water has etched a pattern of traditions on its people including the favorite pastime of surfing!

Judgment: What led you to your choice? What do you think or feel about this choice? Why do you feel this way? Support your thoughts with specific observations. .5 point

I love Northern California, but I miss my time away from San Diego. Talking about this city and learning a little more about its culture has allowed me to remember my own experiences in San Deigo and the times I have spent with my family and friends.

Questioning: What else would you like to know about this choice? When completing the question section, lead your audience into the question by stating a fact you do know, yet you still have the related question. This way, both your audience and you will have an educational experience. Example: I learned that John Steinbeck's Grapes of Wrath was based on his personal experience working with farm workers. I would like to know if the characters he used in that book are fictitious or are they people he met? .5 point

I learned that Mexico has always been a heavy influence to San Diego. I would like to learn what the city, or the area around it was like before it became inhabited with people of other cultures.

Using your classmates work from last week, tell us one thing you learned from 1 student. Is this one thing some common experience you share or some experience that is completely different than what you experienced? Is this one thing related to our class theoretical foundation and if so, how? Is that one thing related to historical or cultural context of this country or a different one? Link that persons blog to this entry (eg cut paste that blog entry here) . .5 point

I learned that Michael is going into his third year at the JC as a business major and is planning to transfer next fall with his AA in business.As I am a science major, Michael will have quite a different learning experience than me! Business has always been an important aspect of anyone trying to make a living in almost any culture.

http://cali4niaplaya88.blogspot.com/2008/06/2a-bodega-bay.html

Assignment 1C

1. Meredith Porter is a pharmaceutical chemistry major who is transferring to UC Davis, like me! From her post about Paulo Freire, I learned that while he was in exile he continued his work by teaching his philosophy of education while traveling around the world.

2. Cindi Schuler has been married for ten years and is a nursing student at Dominican University. From her post, I have learned that Freire was a dedicated teacher who could teach an adult to read and write in only 45 days!

Assignment 1B

1. Paulo Freire was thinker who believed that the education system should involve the student and teacher communicating with one another as equals, and building a respectful relationship with each other. He did not believe in a teacher pounding his or her student with information and just expect the student to simply stand there and take it all in.

2.He believed that dialogue was not just simply talking. He thought that it built a respect for those in conversation and could be a tool used to strengthen the bonds between individuals and their community. He believed communication was the tool to creating justice and social harmony.

3. He was concerned with helping educate the poorest of Brazil's citizens. He became active in adult education of those living in rural and poor areas. He gave them a voice to speak up and be recognized by a government who suppressed their rights and freedom. Because of this, Freire was thrown into prison and later was sent into exile.

Web Links:
www.infed.org/thinkers/et-freir.htm
http://www3.nl.edu/academics/cas/ace/resources/paulofreire.cfm

assignment 1A

1. My name is Lucia, but I usually go by Lucy.

2. I am taking this class to fullfill a GE requirement, and because I don't know much about humanities and would like to learn more.

3. I live 5.3 miles from the Santa Rosa Junior College campus.

4. I hope to learn from this class about the many ways different cultures express themselves through music, art, dance, etc.

5. I have not created a blogspot in the past.