The Vox Box

Porsche or should i say Volkswagen????

2009-10-10T20:31:00.000-07:00

So last year at this time last year Porsche was one of the wealthiest independent car producers in the world. They where doing quite well for them selfs. Then they started to get a little cocky and made the call to try to buy out Volkswagen. Volkswagen being one of the biggest car producers around at the time. Porsche saw this as a worthy challenge and began buying up stock in Volkswagen. The amount that Porsche had to aquire was close to 70%. They rose to around 60% and then the stock market crashed and all the funding banks pulled out leaving Porsche almost broke. Volkswagen how ever saw this and....... BOUGHT PORCHE so now now Porsche is a little part of the huge Volkswagen company. I think that this show how fast a gamble that may be an awesome dicision can turn around and well take you out...

What do you think??

Do you Pitty Porsche??

The Celebrities have Arrived! - Yeah...So have the Emmys

2009-09-20T19:28:00.000-07:00

Today's the day, folks! This September 20th will mark the 61st Primetime Emmy Awards and the stars are out. (Not quite referring to the fact that it's going to be a cloudless and clear night...). Naw, we're talking about the celebrities; they've arrived looking good and out to win some awards! All hosted by the cast of 30 Rock, no less.

After arriving at the Nokia Theatre in good ol' Los Angeles, the stars will get ready to pose, pose, pose. Yup - the paparazzi will definitely be there. But me and stylists everywhere give a good sigh of relief for those pictures; award show outfits and ensembles are where some of the best fashion-inspirations can be found. Score! Have you ever found inspiration from celebrities 'big-night' outfits?

Only 1 more hour until I'll be on the couch absorbing every minute of the Emmy Awards.....excellent.

(Pictures: Top Left - The goregous Award...Bottom Right: One of my fashion-favorites: Drew Barrymore and her mmmazin' dress. Havn't found out about the designer yet - but my money is on Marchesa.....hmmm.)

HERE IS SOME NEWS FOR YOU!!

2009-09-19T18:11:00.000-07:00

Phillip Paul Arnold, a 47-year-old male deemed criminally insane for a homicide that he committed in 1987. He is a patient at the Eastern State Hospital, a mental institution for socially unacceptable people. The EAS took a “field trip” to the Spokane fair on September 17 ware after only a short while Phillip “walked” away from the group. The authorities were called a short 2 hours after the ‘insane killer’ got away from the group, wearing an ordinary pair of blue jeans’ blue shirt and a red windbreaker. A short time after the search began a business owner on Sprague stated the Paul came in and asked for a job application. The patients who leave the EAS campus are usually required to ware some distinctive clothing no word has been released as to why today was an exception. People were still let in and out of the Fair normally all day however some schools nearby were put on lock down during the search! They say that Paul is not an immediate threat to the people of Spokane but may become that way after a day with out medicine. No word on where or what he is doing now!

How does this make you feel that a convicted killer can just walk away from his watchers?

2 Hours until police were called what is with that??

How do you think that this will efeccet the EAS's reputation?

Getting the Blog-ball rollin'...again!

2009-09-15T19:19:00.000-07:00

Yep - the email notices have been sent out, (and most have been replied - Big thanks, guys!). As you've probably noticed, we've taken a little break from the Vox Blog...

You know what I mean, hit the *Snooze* button on the blogging.

But the school year is here, and the majority of the Voxxie Staff is officially putting on some safari-clothes and preparing to Blog our way through this Internet-jungle! Cheers, mates!

Will we devise a schedule? Will we change the layout and freshen up? Will we continue to find some weird-crazy-funny-odd-new stuff to blog about? Stay logged on to find out! (Ohh...sounds like a suspense-film..)

All I can say for now: I'm not sure about the first two options, but definitely for the last one! We'll stay here!

What are some new things we could add to the blog? Do we need a lil' facelift? Any requests, questions, or comments?

One for the ladies...

2009-09-08T06:17:00.000-07:00

It's not often that I post something that would have absolutely NO interest to the guys...but this could definitely be one. I'll just have to put that aside for now, 'cause this website must be shared!

Rachel Zoe is a Hollywood stylist, having dressed the biggest and the most famous stars of all ages, including Anne Hathaway, Debra Messing, Joy Bryant...ect. Here's another good reference to Zoe: Remember the first stages of the 'Olsen-fashion' trends? Really big sunglasses? Messy hair? Tons of jewlry? Huge layers of knits, furs, and vintage? Yeah - that was all inspired by Rachel's own look.

So I'm now an official addict: I click up to The Zoe Report just about every day while surfing the web. On her website, Rachel sheds some light on new trends and cool designer pieces in a blog-format, while even listing some similar alternatives with more attainable price-tags. It's basically the easiest way to get some great inspiration!

Top Ten...(Making it last...)

2009-08-28T21:10:00.000-07:00

This was truly an 'Aha!' moment! I was simply cruisin' the Internet for some blog fodder when 'BAM!', I see the perfect headline...."10 Ways to Extend Your Summer". (MSN.com has really got my back here...even though I did add a few of my own...)

But we all know that I care even MORE about what you guys have to say! What are you doing to make the feeling of those wonderful, amazing, stress-free and let-loose days of summer last?

1. Look on the Bright Side - Ok, this was originally refering to make-up, but I think it's truly a philosophical question. Think positively! That homework CAN be conquered, and WILL be conquered!

2. Bring the Beach back home - I die over the scent of the beach; the salty water mixed with Coppertone is the best! MSN recommends investing in some 'Beach-Scented' candles or even incense sticks. What's your favorite scent of summer? Popsicles? New notebooks? Both are good to me...

3. Score the perfect Wave - (Again, referring to a girly thing - the perfect wavy hairstyle). But I'd like to think that this could also mean to battle a fear! Do something new! Try something crazy! What change are YOU going to make this school year?

4. Sip coconut water - Yum...I love new and weird recipes. (Only not as weird as some of the cafeteria food...I'll just get that straight right now...:D) Try Vita Coco 100% pure coconut water. $24 /12 11.2 oz. packages.

5. Extend your tan - Lounging by the pool and getting a great tan are both definitely great memories of summer! (Plus, the sun provides your body with mega Vitamin D!)

6. Find your niche - I now officially love to sew, play the bass, crazy-dance to techno, and eat lime yogurt, ALL by just giving them a spin this summer! Find a new activity that you like and set aside some fall-time to enjoy and de-stress. What's your new niche?

7. Look towards next year - So many new opportunities! So many things to do! Don't get stressed, just think about what you'll accomplish! What are your GOALS for this year?

8. Find some new tunes! - I love making that fall season "Back-to-School Playlist"; full of pump-up tunes to wake me up and get me out the door and onto the bus. Finding the perfect song to listen to down your hallways is just about as great as shiny new pencils. What are your new fall tunes?

9. Have fun! - Yeah, I know that sounds lame...but REALLY! HAVE FUN! The year won't go by any faster by pouting...so have a great time and enjoy every minute. (Even when you could possibly be eaten by your pile of homework OR by what the cafeteria ladies are stirring in that big mysterious pot...or both.)

10. What's a school-tip that YOU would want to share with everyone! Make #10 your own!

School week? Naaa...Fashion Week!

2009-08-26T05:59:00.000-07:00

September 10 - September 17...break out the flashbulbs and runways.

It's known as the "Superbowl of Style" and it's coming up fast. The buzz for New York Fashion Week is spreading like wild fire, setting the stage for the big debut of designer's 2010 spring collections.

Big names in the fashion industry, such as Lacoste', BCBG, Erin Fetherson, Michael Kors, and even the famous Vera Wang, will take over the runway at NYC's traditional venue, Bryant Park. You know those photographers and fashion-moguls will gather under the tents and around the runways, reporting on every new trend and style soon to hit the streets.

Reports state that the city has promised a larger venue, thus moving the upcoming Februrary-2010 show to Lincoln Center complex, "home to the Metropolitan Opera House and American Ballet Theatre."

I'm definitely counting down the days until Fashion Week-pictures are tossed up on the Web!

Top 10

2009-08-22T07:26:00.000-07:00

Yup - school, school, school: It's coming and coming fast. I've started that seemingly-endless quest of supply shopping and collecting the essentials to achieve a smooth transition into the world of education....(again, *sigh*). Here's MSN.com's list of the Top 10 School Supplies needed by students everywhere, (along with your common sense, of course.)

1. Paper Organizer - Gotta remember your sports practice, after-school events, weekend plans, oh yeah - and homework! Sheesh...so much to do.

2. Backpack - Agreed...but handbags and oversize purses work dang well too. Any other alternatives to the classic backpack? (Still, probably not a good idea to pitch your books into the backseat of your car...)

3. Calendar - I LOVE calendar shopping at the first of the year! I collect the cool "365 Picture-a-Day" ones that investigate cool countries. Last year: Italy. This year: The UK.

4. Downtime Treats - That's the phrase they used for "chilling". I just love to kick back, read for fun, do some DIY, and play guitar. What's your "downtime treat"? (Ha..that phrase reminds me of a happy little brownie that's relaxing on the couch...)

5. Labels - Yup, this site wants to make sure your name is on everything from your calculator to your undies upon re-entering high school this year. Just a warning, I guess...

6. Lucky Charm - Mmm...good breakfast AND good luck! I love to wear my rings and lucky bracelet every day. Any other lucky charms and "rabbit's feet" out there?

7. Study Materials - Classic part of school: Sitting at the desk with books, books, books! Anyone know any good study or homework-help sites?

8. Reference Books - I live by my Webster's Collegiate Dictionary...there have definitely been many an exam paper improved by my friend Webster.

9. Watch - Yay! I collect watches. Plus, they're handy! Making my collection appear to be more then just a weird fetish for timepieces that I have trouble reading...

10. Water Bottle - These reuseable things are one of the greatest inventions on the planet! (Not only are we saving the planet, but you can put crazy stickers on em'! Even attempt to sneak in some *gasp! diet soda or some banned flavored seltzer water...both are my weaknesses...)

Getting ready for school is just dawn over the horizon of a new school year: Any predictions as to the school year? What's your favorite class? Least favorite?

INGLORIOUS BASTARDS!!!

2009-08-22T00:46:00.000-07:00

Ladies and gents yesterday was the 21st day in the wonderful month of August this may mean many things for varying persons but it only means one thing to me and film enthusiasts alike..............get pumped!!!...........here we go!!!......... Yesterday was the long awaited release of Inglorious Bastards the latest work of famed director Quentin Tarantino!! I am hella proud to say that Chloe and I went out and caught it on the PREMIER NIGHT and lets just say that it was not a let down by any means!!! People rave about the stellar acting of all involved in this cast but the preformance that sticks out in my mind is that of Brad Pit. Playing the leader of the bastards (a WWII dream team of sorts) Lt. Aldo Rae is one man who does what he has to do! Though this move is not for the faint of heart (noir is any Quentin Tarantino production) it is a very well played story. Thought all fictitonal by fact some asspects prove to be rather educational. With scenes that for the tention into the room in witch you sit and plenty of laughs and even an appearence from Mike Myers i would say that my favorite director has impressed once again!!!

Any one else hit this up yet??

If so what did you think???

Is this subject offenceive to any one???

Need A Laugh?

2009-08-17T23:02:00.000-07:00

For today's Need A Laugh, I bring you the MetropolitanBandT (B and T stand for Bait and Tackle). Made up of three guys, they describe themselves as "Original Content Producers dedicated to sharply executed narrative. " I would personally describe them as intelligent and offbeat comedy. They have several web shows, including my favorite, Park Bench. Here's an episode:

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Here's their website:
metropolitanbaitandtackle.tumblr.com

Tweets from the Deceased

2009-08-15T07:40:00.000-07:00

Once a Founding Father, now a 'Tweeter'?

Thanks to Twitter, it's as easy as a few mouse-clicks to get into the lives' of your favorite celebrities. Some celebs post and update everything from current moods, locations, destinations, (even the status on their latest break-ups and hook-ups).

According to MSN.com and thanks to the Massachusetts Historical Society, you can now get updates on former president John Quincy Adams. From the address; @JQAdams_MHS, you'll be able to check out Adams' Tweets straight outta' his personal diary entries.

Technology lives on, even if you've been dead for nearly 161 years...

What's your reaction to Twitter? Any 'Tweeters' out there?

Need A Laugh?

2009-08-13T21:44:00.000-07:00

If you're like me, you've got a lot of work right now. You know, summer work, the most tedious of all types of work. But we all need a break every now and again. So, for the next few weeks, I'll do some Katie Comedy and present to you some of my favorite ways to catch a break and get in a laugh.

First up, Barats and Bereta, the comedy duo out of Gonzaga University. These two have been doing sketch comedy for years and do improv at the Blue Door Theater. They're a big hit on Youtube, and there's talks about a pilot for NBC. Here's a link for their newest video, Mousemate.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ycM844Bfzsk

(Image from www.BaratsandBereta.com )

Teen multi-tasking

2009-08-10T07:48:00.000-07:00

A lifegaurd, waitress, deliverer of newspapers, harvest-truck driver, and even the 'professional lawn-mower'; all of these make up some of my friends' summer jobs. As all teenagers know, the benefits of summer employment are fairly balanced, (the most popular being the spending money...most excellent...)

What about when school rolls around? Are you holding your job? Jill L. Ferguson, author of Teens, Jobs, and School: The Pros and Cons, writes that The National Comission on Youth states that securing a school-year job can greatly "contribute to the transition from youth to adulthood" while also highlighting the importance of responsible use and management of money.

Not everyone is a believer in the power of school-time employment: In a 1997 study by David Stern researchers found that "students who work longer hours report diminished engagement in schooling, lowered school performance...[and] higher drug and alcohol use."

What's your job-situation once the school year comes full swing? Do you think that jobs teach life lessons?, or make it impossible to focus on school?

How big is your impact?

2009-07-28T09:54:00.000-07:00

In this post, Colin Beavan makes a big impact while making no impact at all. Confused? Beavan, his wife, his daughter and his dog pledged to live one year (starting November 2006) with no net impact(so when they make negative impact, they must do something positive to balance it out) on the environment. The plan succeeded, and now No Impact Man (as he is known on the internets) will be releasing a book September 1st and a movie September 11th.

To find out more about No Impact Man, read his blog here:
http://noimpactman.typepad.com/blog/2007/02/theres_going_to.html
To see the trailer:
http://www.hulu.com/watch/83658/movie-trailers-no-impact-man

How do you make a positive impact?
What do you think about the quest to leave no impact?
Would you ever try to live no impact?

It's been awhile...Top 10!

2009-07-27T19:26:00.000-07:00

It truly HAS been awhile since I've hit you guys with a lil' "Top 10"-action, so here you have it: top10songs.com's collection of the Top 10 popular songs of the Week! Enjoy!

1. I Gotta Feeling - Black Eyed Peas...This is an AMAZING dance song, so be prepared to hear it 24/7 on the radio, at the dentist, at the Homecoming dance, at Prom...everything...

2. Boom Boom Pow - Black Eyed Peas

3. You Belong With Me - Taylor Swift

4. Fire Burning - Sean Kingston...How could you not love his accent? Definitely ups the 'catchy-ness' of his songs...

5. New Divide - Linkin Park

6. Poker Face - Lady GaGa...Anyone read the Rolling Stone article about her childhood and career? It was actually really interesting: She got interviewed while wearing football-style shoulder pads! Love it...they were glittery, of course.

7. I Know You Want Me (Calle Ocho) - Pitbull

8. The Climb - Miley Cyrus...Yup, definitely a 16-year old wondergirl...(really good article on her in the August Elle mag...)

9. If Today Was Your Last Day - Nickelback

10. G-Get Up and Dance! - Faber Drive...Now THOSE are words I like to hear!

What songs have been rocking YOUR week? What's your favorite personal playlist?

Check Out...The Shweeb!

2009-07-24T10:26:00.000-07:00

That's right, The Shweeb. The world's first human/bicycle -powered monorail, the Shweeb is located in New Zealand (of course!). Riding along in your own pod, you can race against your friends or against time and try to beat the record for your age or country. All I can say is that it looks like loads of fun and it good for you too! Check 0ut the website (http://www.shweeb.com/) for more details!

(photo from http://www.shweeb.com/Shweeb/gallery_IDL=105_IDT=2189_ID=12890_.html)

Read. Think. Type. Rock.

-Katie

Cravin' some Bacon?

2009-07-22T21:15:00.000-07:00

"Is there anything bacon can't improve?"
(another good quote!)

Ok - I'm a hard-core vegetarian, but I would still totally try this! Archie McPhee, a crazy store straight outta' our music and culture-laden Seattle, has completely turned the world of dental hygiene on it's end. The flossing district, to be exact.

Announcing: Bacon Floss! (sounds scrumptious, doesn't it? Ha! - this coming sarcastically from a veggie...) But really, the Archie McPhee store wants you to "improve your dental hygiene while enjoying the amazing flavor of crispy fried bacon."

Better not miss out on this deal! For only $4.95 (and a free gift with every order!) you'll be flossin' away with over 27 yards of bacon-ocity. And never fear, if you like the pork-flavored floss you're still just one click away from ordering a tin of Uncle Oinker's Bacon Mints...

Like I said, Archie McPhee is a pretty unique store. What's the craziest store you've been to? Craziest flavored item? What would YOUR signature floss flavor be?

Hey Sponge!

2009-07-18T09:47:00.000-07:00

"Take one naive yellow sponge with a disposition so sunny that he makes Pollyanna seem like an old grouch and dress him in a pair of square pants..."

Daniel Bubbeo of Newsday got it exactly right; the popular Nickelodeon character, SpongeBob SquarePants, has audiences absolutely hooked. Celebrating 10 years in the ocean-floor town of Bikini Bottom, this sponge is living the high life "when it comes to animation domination."

Tune in to Nickelodeon to catch the 50-hour...(*yeah - over TWO DAYS of episodes!) marathon "Ultimate SpongeBob SpongeBash Weekend", having started Friday at 8pm.

Oh Oh! Another great SpongeBob bite: "Square Roots: The Story of SpongeBob SquarePants," is introducing viewers documentary-style to interviews with the "show's creators, cast members, and celeb fans."

So...SpongeBob: Genius cartoon happy-man, or lame yellow cleaning supply? What's your weigh-in on the Sponge himself?

2009-07-16T08:37:00.000-07:00

It's only July - there's still time! (To travel, that is.) Yup - another Chloe-list, and this one will give you the travel-bug for sure. iExplore travel brings you the 'Top Ten Summer World Travel Destinations for Cultural Exploration' as surveyed by tourists and adventurists. (In other words, these places are so amazing that people ranted and raved about them...and also bought a lot of souvenirs.)

1. The Pyramids, Egypt - I'm pretty sure this will ALWAYS be on the 'Must-See' list for all humans.

2. Machu Picchu, Peru - Ooohhhh, recently named one of the world's newest '7 Wonders.'

3. Thailand - Said to have one of the most "exotic and vivid" cultures of the world. (and AMAZING food!)

4. Madagascar - No, not quite like the movie...but still a beautiful island.

5. Great Wall, China - Really? It can be seen from space? I'm not sure what I would rather do; see the real wall, or check it out from the moon.

6. Jerusalem, Israel - The site lists lists lists amazing places to visit, including the Wailing Wall, the Dome of the Rock, and the church of the Holy Sepulchre.

7. Taj Mahal, India - Not only is 'Taj Mahal' one of my favorite musicians, it's one of my 'Have to See' - landmarks! (Going to one of his concerts wouldn't be bad either...)

8. Tunisia - Even though it's the smallest country in North Africa, heading to Tunisia will give you a great view of beaches, the Sahara desert, and sets from Star Wars.

9. Vietnam - "Only in Vietnam is the past and the present encapsulated so perfectly." The site sums it up perfectly...

10. Japan - YES! I love the Japanese culture...the music-scene, the fashion-scene, the cuisine! It truly is a departure from our familiar lives...

What are YOUR travel plans for this summer? Any trips coming up? How have past travel-experiences been? Where would YOU go off of this list?

Check out...

2009-07-15T11:12:00.000-07:00

Kiel Mead! Kiel (pronounced "Kyle") is an up-and-coming, 24-year-old jewelry and furniture designer based out of New York City. Kiel started his design career with his awesome "keyrings", rings made from Mustang, Chrysler and other car keys. Mead's jewelry is crafted from mundane yet nostalgic items, from drill bits to lanyards to matchsticks and even chewing gum. Each piece is unique and carries it's own significance. To learn more about his art and for more pictures, check out his website at http://www.kielmead.com/

All I can say for myself is that I adore his forget-me-not rings (pictured above). What do you thing about Kiel's interesting art? Any artists/designers I should check out?

Read. Think. Type. Rock.

-Katie

Music games in full swing

2009-07-13T09:10:00.000-07:00

While some ask "Coke or Pepsi", these games are much more directed toward the "X-Box or Playstation" crowd. First covered by Rolling Stone, brands such as Genius Products and Activision are breaking out the latest in 'music-game' technology with new games that put you in the rocker boots of guitar-god Santana and even show you the ropes of professional DJ'ing.

SCRATCH: The Ultimate DJ, developed by Genius Products, gives players an authentic turntable controller from the professional music-technology suppler Numark. With this game, you can improvise by 'scratching', mixing, and overlaying songs by popular musicians like Kanye West and more. Your dreams of rocking the nightclubs can finally come true! (Hitting the stores this Fall.)

DJ HERO, an Activision product and sibling to the famous Guitar Hero, comes to bring you the ultimate in celebrity mash-ups. Mix up tracks of Foo Fighters, Gwen Stefani, and co-consultants Eminem and Jay-Z. With creators like that, how could you go wrong? (Mark your calendars, coming out October 27th.)

GUITAR HERO 5, another Activision creation, the latest GH will throw in songs by Kings of Leon (*gasp! one of my favorites!), Santana, and Elliot Smith. There's even talk of a "instrument switching 'party-mode'. (September 1st, but get ready for the next step in the Guitar Hero madness coming soon-ish...Van Halen, baby...Van Halen.)

What's your favorite music-game? Any good memories around the Rock Band controllers? Which Guitar Hero is your favorite? (Aerosmith...AC/DC...The Beatles?)

Texting teen falls into open manhole

2009-07-11T18:11:00.001-07:00

I found this too hilarious to pass up. A 15-year-old New York girl fell into an open sewer manhole while texting and walking at the same time. She fell four or five feet, but suffered nothing more than a few scrapes and a big surprise. Several crewmen, who were flushing a high-pressure sewer line, immediately helped her out. But despite the fact that it was largely the girl's fault, her parents are still intent on suing (on what charges, we don't yet know). Her mother even said that the girl's multitasking "doesn't matter."

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/31853449/?GT1=43001

Thoughts? Surely I'm not the only one who laughed at this, not only that she fell in but that her parents are filing a lawsuit about it. Has texting become too much of an obsession?

Popping the top on energy drinks

2009-07-10T08:41:00.000-07:00

They're everywhere: Energy drinks, including Monster, Red Bull, Amped, and even Rockstar, can be found in the hands of some teens at nearly every hour of the day. This is the biggest concern of Kentucky, Michigan, and Maine lawmakers.

According to The Nutrition Business Journal's website, each of these states have considered passing bills banning the sales of energy drinks to anyone under the age of 18. The state of Kentucky would also prohibit drinks containing more than 71 mg of caffine per 12 oz serving and the ingredients taurine and glucuronolactone, stating reasons such as "child safety." Yet, (especially with the 'Starbucks-boom'), coffee is much more readily-available and packs over a whopping 100 mg of caffine.

So...get 'carded' to buy your Red Bull? Will these proposed bills hurt the drink-manufacturers?

Top Ten: Nice and Frozen...

2009-07-08T13:45:00.000-07:00

So. I absolutely love lists, (and my profile definitely proves it...). Here's a little list that's very near and dear to my heart: The list if the Top Selling Ice Cream Flavors. A survey ranked each flavor from 1 to 10 based on popularity, delicious-ness, and how fast they're flying off of grocery store freezer shelves! Grab your bowls and spoons, it's time to dig in to the best ones! Enjoy your first Top Ten!

1. Vanilla - Plain and simple, always a classic.

2. Chocolate - Mmmm, hard to resist!

3. Butter Pecan - Unexpexted 3rd-placer, but still good!

4. Strawberry - Ahhh, the sweet and berry-ful option.

5. Neapolitan - Like numbers 1, 2, and 4? Go with #5!

6. Chocolate Chip - Hard to resist those little bits of chocolate.

7. French Vanilla - Do you have to eat this with your pinkys up? (proper manners?...)

8. Cookies 'n' Cream - Ohhh, cookies AND ice cream? Match made in heaven.

9. Fudge Ripple - Yeah, definitely like a river of awesome.

10. Praline - Never tried this one, but if it's ice cream, it's gotta be good!

Totally age-old question: Which IS the best? What should be added to the list?

Hollywood Undead Review!!!

2009-07-06T20:58:00.000-07:00

Coming at you is the official Nick Wright review of the Hollywood Undead show!! Though the show is three days over with I still find myself in AWE of the extreme talent of the seven men who graced the stage that night!! So before I get to the main event I feel that it is only right to say a little something about the opening bands. First up was a band by the name of The Sleeping. They were okay if you are into really hardcore screamers!! The next act on stage was a four-piece punk band from New York entiled Mest, and they were very good classic punk much like the sound of New Found Glory. After the two opening band, who would soon be slammed to the back of our minds, Hollywood Undead took the stage!!! Fully masked, the seven men came out all at once, only preseated by the drummer who was the only unmasked man on stage at this point. He opened with a solo and they ripped into there first big hit, Undead!!! So here was the real kicker, and I am sorry if you lose some respect for the masked men by me telling you this, but by the third or forth song all the men were no longer masked!!! I know, I was floored too. But not to worry, the show was still as amazing as ever and lived very highly up the the statement made by the founder, "we ain't like other rap shows": with two live drummers and a guitar that switched hands throughout, they are most definitely not like other rap shows! I would say that if Hollywood Undead ever comes back to a place near you, spend the twenty bucks and go because it is 100% worth it!!

So one thing, do you respect their choice to remove their masks, or should they have kept them on?

More Summer Fun

2009-07-03T21:23:00.000-07:00

Well, we're well into summer now and I wanted to create a post where people could comment as they pleased, all about summer. I have a few things to say first, though.

I'll be gone at camp until the 12th, so adios until then, but before I go, I want to make sure that everyone in Washington knows that Never Shout Never is coming to The Big Dipper (in Spokane) on July 6th. I highly reccomend you attend, as I will be unable to *tears*. (http://www.myspace.com/nevershoutnever)

Ok, enough of me...now it's your turn!

What are you doing for the Fourth?
Do you have any camp memories to share?
Are there any special summer rituals you have with your friends or family?
What is your favorite summer treat?

(My answers; Lake, building a camp casino in the woods, Star-tripping with friends in the forest [a great activity, fun for all ages], and watermelon!)

Stay Safe!

Read. Think. Type. Rock.

-Katie

Good Symposium, I suppose...

2009-07-03T07:12:00.000-07:00

We're saying 'hello' to a new month, and with this new calender-page comes the celebration of *INTERNATIONAL ZINE MONTH!* (Yeah, there is a website alllll about it...)

As you all know, I am a total zine-lover! (My little "cut n' paste" obsessions are currently threatening to take over my room floor...) Therefore, you know I'm gonna be jazzed to read up on a great upcoming event : The Portland Zine Symposium!

Taking place over July 24, 25, and 26 in the Portland University's Smith Memorial Ballroom, the Symposium will celebrate everything zine-related. You'll find ad-tables by local zines publications and their authors, collections from popular distros (short for 'distributions', that's where you BUY a zine...), and TONS of people to talk to about the awesome-ness of zines and their creation. Yes, yes - that means workshops, discussions, and zine-trading galore; favorite pastimes of the zine-lovin' group.

The Symposium is organized by 'old-school' zinester, (well...old school to us, seeing as she started nearly 13 years ago...), Alex Wrekk. Ever heard of her book, Stolen Sharpie Revolution? Or her zine, Brainscan? Or her custom-button company, Small World Buttons? They're basically the 'holy standards' that people who make zines try to live up to. A great example of how a living can be made purely by expressing yourself, (and inspiring others to do the same.)

This event sounds like a great time - especially if you're into self-publishing, zines, handmade crafts, or even just supporting the community and it's local vendors. (All of which I LOVE!)

Anyone interested? If you were publishing a zine, what would be your main topic? Music? Food? Reviews? Movies? Photography and art?

New Music For Your Ears

2009-07-02T12:29:00.000-07:00

It was proven at approximately 12:28 p.m. today, that I am not infallible. The Films (an AMAZING band) released a new album entitled Oh, Scorpio and I did not know about until NINE days after the release. I know, I'm just as ashamed as you are. But, to insure that this is not repeated, I have compiled a list of all known upcoming release dates of some of my favorite bands for you and I to enjoy. Also included are recently released albums that you may have missed. (Order= Band, Album, Release date)

Built To Spill - There Is No Enemy (October 2009) http://stereogum.com/archives/progress_report/progress-report-built-to-spill_073321.html
OK Go - The Influence of the Blue Ray of the Sunlight and of the Blue Color of the Sky (September 2009) You can listen to the first single here :http://music-mix.ew.com/2009/05/ok-go-skyscrape.html
Matt Hires - Take Us To The Start (July 28, 2009) You can Pre-Order on iTunes (http://www.myspace.com/matthires)
All Time Low - Nothing Personal (July 7, 2009)
Discovery - LP (July 7, 2009) This is the much anticipated release from Vampire Weekend's Rostam Batmanglij & Ra Ra Riot's Wes Miles...Fun!
Cobra Starship - Hot Mess (August 11, 2009)
Nathan Maxwell And The Original Bunny Gang -White Rabbit (August 18, 2009) This one is for Jeremiah...it's got Flogging Molly's bassist :)
The Dead Weather - Horehound (July 14, 2009) This is Jack White (of the White Stripes) new project
The Flaming Lips- Embryonic (Summer 2009)
The Shins, No Doubt, and The Long Winters will also be releasing something in 2009!

Can't wait until these albums come out? Wilco, Ben Kweller, Grizzly Bear, The Decemberists, The Cab, Mew, Spoon, Meg & Dia, Hawk Nelson, The Hollywood Undead, and The Bombay Bicycle Club all have brand spankin new releases! So enjoy, and Happy Listening!

Read. Think. Type. Rock.

-Katie

Sick Shows Coming up:Hollywood Undead

2009-06-29T19:47:00.000-07:00

So come the Second of July the Knitting Factory in spokane washington is going to be taken over by one of the most edgy rock/rap acts since early Linkin Park! Theses six guys dropped a musical bomb last year with the release of there debut Swan Songs mixing strong metal esk drum riffs with Eminem style MC work and even some DJ work that stands up to the best!! Spiting the lyrics on this flashy one of a kind act: Johnny 3 Tears, J-Dog and Charlie Scene. A man known my the alter ego of Deuce spins the beasts well not really seeings how on stage at a Hollywood Undead show sits not one live drummer but TWO!!! That leaves 2 men unaccounted Da Kurlzz drops a few rhymes with the other boys as well as some drum work and then Funny man who keeps the fans laughing and having a good time!! So i am counting on this being one Gnarly show (and do you even have to ask Yess i have tickets!) The other bands there to bask in the Undeads glow include The Sleeping (and emo and quite musically advanced band) and Mest. Well guys you all know how i will be spending my second of july and i will have the review for you right around the corner!!

Any other fans out there??

Could you call yourselfs DEAD HEADS??

Summer fun

2009-06-29T11:20:00.000-07:00

Summer means a lot of things to a lot of people. To some, it's sleeping in and catching up on tanning time. To others, it's camps and swimming, biking and running. To me, summer means I have time to participate in my favorite activity: going to concerts. I usually try to go to the cheap/free local concerts, but last year I had the opportunity to go to the Sasquatch!Music Festival (not technically summer, but I'm counting it) This year I'm hoping to go to Bumbershoot in Seattle. Summer festivals are a hallowed American pastime and I highly suggest you surf the net and find one near your city. Festivals give you the chance to see bands from all over for a relatively low price and to hang out with some great people who share the same musical interests as you. Below are some links for finding out about some festivals.

http://www.last.fm/us/summerfestivals

http://www.clubplanet.com/Articles/3089/Summer-Music-Festival-Guide-2009

http://www.newsweek.com/id/194087

Have you ever been to a music/art festival? What was your experience? Any fun/funny stories to share?

Read. Think. Type. Rock.

Katie

Internet Hot Spots You Might've Missed

2009-06-29T08:13:00.000-07:00

It's official; I'm back! I'm not completely back in the swing of things, but to give everyone a little something to do (only if you're bored, mind you) I have compiled a list of my favorite websites....Enjoy!

http://www.theawesomer.com/ - This is a site that just posts whatever they find awesome; videos, shirts, gadgets, people, events...anything! Head over there when you're feeling less than awesome.

http://www.stereogum.com/ - I rave about this website to pretty much everyone I meet. They've always got the latest in underground music news and they're updated daily. Stereogum also has tons of FREE, LEGAL mp3 downloads for the alt-music lover. Fun!

http://www.notalwaysright.com/ - Hilarious site with anecdotes from work. People can post all their nightmare customer stories here for you to read!

http://www.crunkroost.com/ - This is the site for Spokane's up-and-coming expository music zine, which you may be lucky enough to find lying around town. However, if you don't live in the area, or just aren't lucky, check out the site to read articles and send comments.

http://www.collegehumor.com/ - Whenever I need I good laugh, College Humor is a great stop. Funny articles, orginal comedy sketches and some live standup videos are enough to make me smil everytime. Of the CH Originals, my favorite sketches are the Hardly Working and Jake and Amir sketches. Totally genius.

http://www.jakeandamir.com/ - This is more of an extention of the entry above, but these guys are too funny not to be mentioned twice.

http://www.pollstar.com/ - Type in the name of your city, and most of the concerts within the next two months pop up on your screen. Of course, this doesn't have ALL of the dates, but it gives you a pretty good idea of what's going on in your town. I was a little depressed when looking at it though; the two best concerts happen when I'm out of town!

http://www.threadbanger.com/ - Probably one of the best DIY websites on the planet. This site (which was recently updated) features tutorials, spotlights, fan creations, a forum, home decor lessons and so much more. ThreadBanger really promotes the DIY community and is helpful for both beginners and DIYers-for-life. Not sure what DIY is or if you'd like it? Head over to ThreadBanger to find out.

That's the list for me, but now it's your turn!

What are your favorite site and why?

What did you think of the sites above?

How many followers have you recruited since I've been gone? (That's right, I didn't forget!)

Read. Think. Type. Rock.

Katie

Bring on the cake!...

2009-06-26T23:39:00.000-07:00

So it's finally vacation time! Well...this isn't really a vacation, I would say. (Not like Katie livin' it up in sweet California!) But its close to a vacation. Its my cousin's wedding weekend in Walla Walla, Washington. A really terrible alliteration, I know...but true.

In addition to having rehersal dinner under our belts, we got the bridesmaid dresses, the cake, even the flower petals to chuck down aisle all under control. Everything seems to be coming together pretty well! That got me thinking..."What do our Voxxers and readers think about weddings?....."

So there's your question: What's the modern-day importance of a wedding? Do you have a "dream-day"? Music? Food? Location? Ladies: Have you been planning since childhood? Guys: Do you still not care so much about the details?

Rest in peace, Michael Jackson

2009-06-25T20:23:00.000-07:00

One of the biggest names in the music industry is dead. Michael Jackson died of cardiac arrest in a Los Angeles Hospital, to the surprise of millions worldwide.

I don't know about you guys, but it hasn't really sunk in for me. I'm not really a Michael Jackson fan, but I literally cannot imagine him dead. It never crossed my mind that he could die.

So let's join the many vigils going on at this very moment. Any Jackson fans out there? Any great memories or favorite songs? Any last wishes for the late pop sensation?

Spotlight: Seth MacFarlane!!

2009-06-22T19:55:00.000-07:00

Ladies and gents this time around I shine the spotlight on one of the most respected and well established cartoonist of the last few years, no not the guy that makes "The Simpsons" but none other than.......Drumroll please......Seth MacFarlane!!! Who you ask? well let me tell you this man is the soul creator of one of the infamous cartoons to date. Family Guy is an all out no holds bared cartoon about none other than a weird american family and the shananagains that they get into every day. Born October 26, 1973 he quickly moved on to study animation at the Rhode Island School of Design where he obtained his Bachelor's in Fine Arts. When he left school his desires to work for Walt Disney soon left when he was hired by Cartoon Network. There he worked on such shows as Johnny Bravo, Dexter's Laboratory and Cow and Chicken! Shortly after his stint at Cartoon Network he showed The Fox Executives a short he had made called Larry and Steve and they quickly contracted Seth to produce a cartoon series based on the characters, the product was a little show called Family Guy! This move made him the youngest executive producer on television. "I spent mounts in my kitchen no sleep, no life, just drawing" and after this and a 50,000 dollar budget he gave fox the pilot of Family Guy which went over very well. To date Seth has one 4 awards 2 of which are Emmy's for his voice acting (which include quite a selection of subjects in both of his major series Family Guy: Peter, Stewiw, and Glen. And American Dad: Stan, and Roger Smith.) as well as 2 other high honors from the television world. His latest project is The Cleavland Show which is a spin off of one of the Family Guy characters. He openly states his ideas that gay right should be supported and his strong approval of the new President(whom which he donated 10,000 dollars) His new series is set to be seen in early fall and there are many people awaiting its arrival!!

Are you one of these people?

Any other Family Guy fans out there?

Any one feel any offence due to any of the jokes you have seen on Family Guy?

Follow the "beating drums and rainbow cloaks"...

2009-06-21T18:37:00.000-07:00

Dancing in the rain took on a whole new meaning as "druids, New Agers, and people just looking for a party" all took part in the celebration of the summer solstice at the mystical landmark of Stonehenge.

CBSNEWS.com reports that the longest day of the year was brought in by "beating drums and rainbow cloaks" worn by attendees all waiting for the mysterious moment: Saturday's 4:58 AM sunrise.

"I think it's a place of our ancestors, its a shrine to our ancestors, and I think it's very important to celebrate each season," says 60-year old Ray Smith, (also known as Rhobar, druid of Hengistbury in southern England). Smith came to the 'par-tay' prepared in multicolored skirt and blue face paint.

Not all celebrators held such strong dedication to the beauty and history of Stonehenge, many came for the "party-aspect."

"We heard about it through our really studious friend but we're gonna come and get drunk. We're halfway gone right now," said 21-year old Minnesota student, Alison Newcomber.

So. Which is it for you? Celebration of your rich past or purely reason to party? (Or...simply incentive to stay up later watching TiVo'd episodes of SNL with some popcorn? Hey...the night is longer, afterall!)

California Dreamin

2009-06-18T22:11:00.000-07:00

Hey, Vox Box! Right now I'm in the process of packing for my trip to California. I'll be gone until the 28th of June and I'll be missing the blog like crazy (no internet for me!). Anyways, while I'm gone, I have some questions for you to answer!

What are some events going on where you live?
What am I missing while I'm gone?
What is your favorite vacation place?
What are your favorite summer activities?

And now a few challenges for the readers who are truly dedicated:

Recruit (I don't care how many, just do it!)
Attend some cultural and interesting event in your town and write about it here (especially those of you in the Northwest so I know what I'm missing!)

OK...that's all from me until later this month. Talk to you soon!

Read. Think. Type. Rock.

Katie

Blow a kiss, get denied your diploma?

2009-06-17T18:15:00.001-07:00

Every school has one: That class clown graduate who, as they walk across the stage during commencement ceremony, does something weird, showy, or bizarre as a celebration of their last day of school. I've seen cartwheels, handstands, victory laps around the stage, and even the occasional streaker. All of these cases have resulted in the crowd's laughter and applause...but withholding of the diploma? Never.

This wasn't the case for graduating senior from Bonny Eagle High School, Maine. When called, the student walked across the stage and did it - ....ready? He blew his family a kiss....*gasp! The Yahoo article described the school's administrator as "clearly not the sentimental sort", having sent the student back to his seat without his diploma.

While the student's mother feels this diploma-denial is unjust, arguing that "A bow, a kiss to your mom is not misbehavior," school administators continue to stand their ground. I guess that kiss was just going too far...

Is it worth it? Should the student be reprimanded in this way? What's the craziest graduation-behavior YOU'VE seen?

Les Claypool!?!?!

2009-06-15T21:45:00.001-07:00

So as some of you know I am quite the fan of almost any kind of music at all and while i happen to be surfing the internet for any good shows coming up (besides AEROSMITH) I stumbled upon a show at the Knitting Factor on Wednesday June 24 that I had not herd about!! What... I know that is the most wack thing that you have herd all week eh? However it is true i will admit.... His name Les Claypool, his game some highly above normal bass guitar skills!!! So I was interested and hit up you tube and this is what came up.. now you may want to lay a pillow on your floor so that your jaw does not hurt quite as bad from the impact that it will soon experience!! So check this man out and I warned you about the jaw thing good luck my fellow humans!!!

Am I just slow has anyone herd this man??

What do you think??

Would You stop by this show??

Week in Review

2009-06-15T16:30:00.000-07:00

Hey, internet. Back again with some fun Northwest updates. Since school's been out for almost 5 days now, I've been diving head-first into the activities Spokane has to offer.

First up, Poetry Grandslam at the Empyrean:

This event occurs bi-monthly at the Empyrean, but it was my first time. The poets were amazing, and just by attending, I discovered a new layer of Spokane. For example, did you know that we are home to some of the best slammers in the history of ever? Now you do. Andrea Gibson was the featured poet (http://www.andreagibson.org/home/home.html) and she was fabulous. Her poems were really heart-wrenching and spoke about equality and ending violence. Check out the links below for more info:

http://www.myspace.com/spslam

Next event, BOBfest 2009. (http://www.myspace.com/bobfest08)

(Pictured second) BOBfest is an annual Battle of the Bands competition held in Riverfront Park. This year the participants were Executive Smack, Falling in Absence, Raw Nerve, City of Ember, Purple State, Ekson Tide, Green Light go, Act One Scene One, Lazarus, Arete, In Cold Daylight, Olaf Olaf Olaf, and The Chasing. I caught the middle of the show and saw Ekson Tide, Green Light Go, Act One Scene One and Lazarus. Green Light Go was my favorite, with just three guys short of being Big Band. They sounded like a renovated Mighty Mighty Bosstones; More horns and less scream for an upbeat and catchy sound. Act One Scene One showed promise and was fun to listen to, but their singer needs to work more on developing his voice. It sounded a little weak in comparison to the strong guitar lines. In the end Green Light Go won it all. Congratulations

Event three, Gay Pride Festival

I stumbled upon this event by accident and couldn't stay too long but the energy was great. Everyone was happy and friendly and the crafts were cool. The stands were set up behind Riverpark Square and included a stage with a live band and bouncy castles. It was hosted by OutSpokane (http://www.outspokane.com/) and was a huge success.

Final Event, Mark Ward concert at Rocket Market

(Pictured first...That's me, my friend Kelli, Mark Ward, his dog Frankie, and my twin, Kellie) The Rocket Market (http://www.rocketmarket.com/) holds free outdoor concerts every Saturday. They start around 8 and are always packed and family friendly. I went with a few friends last Saturday and saw Mark Ward, a local singer/songwriter (http://www.myspace.com/markwardmusic). He performed some music off his latest album, Little Lights, and it was a fun night for all!

Well that's it for my Spokane culture week in review. What did you do this week? Anything fun I missed?

Read up on (RED)NIGHTS

2009-06-15T13:22:00.000-07:00

"26 BANDS, ONE STAGE....WELCOME TO (RED)NIGHTS."

Once only recognized by the the countless Hollywood-celebrity spotlights, Starbucks fundraisers, and GAP ads, (RED) has found a whole new way to help the Global Fund eliminate AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria in Africa.

I was flipping through the recent 'Green Day' issue (I loooove Green Day!..) of Rolling Stone magazine when I stumbled upon a bold (RED)NIGHTS advertisement. We've got quite a few music-lovers here on the VOX, so I know there has gotta be a few fellow Rolling Stone readers also. Making a splash in the charity-world, (RED)NIGHTS is exactly what it sounds: 26 nights of amazing concerts that brings together some of the best in today's popular entertainment. The show will include headliners such as Fall Out Boy, Santigold, All-American Rejects, and O.A.R.

"I've wanted to get involved in the fight against AIDS for a long time, but I wasn't sure what to do," says Santigold in Rolling Stone. "I'm glad someone found a way to make it easy to get involved."

This blow-out celebration of life will culminate in New York with a "multi-act show" on World Aids Day, December 1st.

How can WE get involved? What are some ways that your school/community has gathered together for a single cause?

President Peanut at it again...

2009-06-13T13:07:00.000-07:00

Reference article: http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1244371086046&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull

So as we all (hopefully) know, former US president Jimmy Carter is actively involved in several foreign service projects. Perhaps his most notable one to date is an attempt to solve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict (in my humble opinion writing a book and calling it Palestine: Peace, Not Apartheid and comparing the Israelis to the South African whites is not the way to do it, but I never said the man was thinking rationally).

This weekend marks at least the second time that Mr. Carter is going to meet with representatives of Hamas, an organization recognized by most of the world as a terrorist organization (its charter includes a paragraph in which it details the group's goal to destroy the state of Israel). As a former US president, Mr. Carter receives Secret Service protection for the rest of his life--this brings up an interesting point: when his Secret Service bodyguards notice wanted fugitives, why do they not use their powers of arrest to execute the warrants on these people?

Point of Discussion: So what does everyone think of Mr. Carter's little meetings with terrorists?

Wizard Rock!

2009-06-11T16:26:00.000-07:00

The lovely Lauren and Nina of The Moaning Myrtles.

So last night I made it to a wizard rock concert in the next town over, and it was so awesome I just had to share. :) It featured The Mudbloods, Justin Finch-Fletchley, The Whomping Willows, and The Moaning Myrtles, all of whom were amazing. For those who don't know, wizard rock is a genre whose songs and bands revolve entirely around Harry Potter. I'm still all fangirly from it, buying songs and watching YouTube clips and squealing over the awesome shirt I got (bright green with the phrase "I Believe in Nargles" in black along the front, signed by all the wrockers on the back). Wizard rock is one of those quiet obsessions of mine, not to subtle because it's too great to bottle up but not too overt because my mother starts to worry.

Any quirky music you're fond of? Or just random obsessions in general?

Vox Spotlight?????

2009-06-10T15:59:00.000-07:00

So it is Nick here I was going to right all of you fellow bloggers a nice little internet letter (email) but then I had a brainstorm and thought that it would be cool to here what you guys think in comment form!!!! Here is my idea every few days I Nick wright will hit the world of the VOX with a new person/band that I think is gnarly and interesting. It will be good insight not only on some cool people but also into my fantastical brain (witch is a place deemed very hazardous). I will fill you in on some background some interesting facts and what they are up to right at the moment (and on some occasions were you can see them next). Now it is your turn tell me what you think!!

Good idea or poor one?

Any other such things that you want to be included in the sum of that person/band?

and of course any other input that you might have!!!

Northwest Lovin'

2009-06-10T14:20:00.000-07:00

I finished my last final at 11:15 today and am now officially a junior. I know, I know. I rock. Now that summer is pretty much official I have two things for you.
Item 1:
Summer Assignment: RECRUIT. I think the goal for the blog should be more followers than contributors. Okay, and now, the good part.

Item 2:
I am a little bit of a music freak. I'm constantly listening to music and when I'm not listening to it, I'm searching for it and reading about it. I especially love the rich and varied music that comes from the Pacific Northwest. A lot of times people have no idea that the PNW is essentially renowned for their great music So here, for your aural pleasure:

Katie's Northwest Summer Playlist
(Guaranteed to give you a better and more Northwesty summer)

Smells Like Teen Spirit - Nirvana (because there really is no other way to start a Northwest playlist)
Goodnight Goodnight - Hot Hot Heat
Never Had Nobody Like You -M. Ward (Also a part of the band She & Him with actress Zooey Deschanel)
Pointer Finger - The Oregon Donor (How clever is that name? TOO CLEVER!)http://www.myspace.com/theoregondonor
Little Slickers - The Globes (New EP out, available on iTunes. Saw them at Elkfest and they were great!)http://www.myspace.com/globesmusic
Fire Island, AK - The Long Winters http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WQCcSeEZ_R0
July, July! - The Decemberists (This is an old one, but I figure it's fitting for the list. They've got a new concept/rock opera album out and it's really fantastic)http://www.myspace.com/thedecemberists
Rubik's Cube - Yarn Owl (Another Elkfest band...Chloe knows the drummer which is pretty sweet) http://www.myspace.com/yarnowl
Too Fake - Hockey (A band with a member from Spokane! My friend Kelli saw them at Pig Out before they hit the big time and now they've been featured on shows like Vh1's Best Week Ever. The guitarist Brian White's mom works at my high school too) http://www.myspace.com/hockey
Car - Built to Spill ( A classic from one of the most revered Northwest bands of all time. A new album is rumored to come out around October...Hooray!)
Little Bribes - Death Cab For Cutie ( We'll round out the list with one of my favorites! The following link is a killer fan-directed video)http://www.deathcabforcutie.com/news/348/little_bribes_fan_video/

Hope you enjoy the music and have a kicking summer!

Read. Think. Type. Rock.

Katie

Toilet planters on display...

2009-06-09T05:51:00.000-07:00

Here's a little fact about myself : I LOVE to recycle - yet this scuffle could be taking things a tad bit far...

Tina Asmus of Lakemoor, Ill. is a fellow recycing-lover, (and it shows). According to this AP story, Asmus revamped two old toilets and a pedestal sink into clever little planters for assorted "daisies, angel's breath, lilies, and other flowers."

Asmus calls these 'johns' her "art pieces", and will not be removing them.

Officials of Lakemoor have asked Asmus to remove the planters within a month's time or face a fine ranging anywhere from $25 to $500.

Question: Is this really that big of a deal? How 'green' is TOO 'green'? Should Asmus have to remove her 'art', for the town-reputation's sake?

Bomb, Bomb, Bomb, Bomb, Bomb...Iran?

2009-06-09T02:50:00.000-07:00

For the first report of the Middle Eastern Affairs Desk, I present a rather thorny situation: Iran and it's nuclear program, whose intentions are, according to the Iranian government, for the manufacturing of nuclear reactors to produce nuclear energy. According to the governments of the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and Israel however, the Iranian government is engaged in nuclear weapons research and the refining of uranium into weapons-grade plutonium.

In 1981, the former government of Iraq under Saddam Hussein was also conducting nuclear weapons research at a site called Osiraq (coincidentally, the technical assistance given to the Iraqis came from the French). On June 7th of that year, Israeli F-15 and F-16 fighter-bombers flew from Etzion Airbase (now Taba International Airport in the Sinai) to Osiraq and, laser-guided bombs, smashed the reactor complex (also coincidentally, one of the pilots on the mission was Ilan Ramon, who would later die in the breakup of the Columbia Space Shuttle). Operation Opera was later repeated in September of 2007 when fighter-bombers of the Israeli Air Force bombed a nuclear reactor complex in Syria during Operation Orchard.

Point of Discussion: Under what conditions, if any, is it justifiable to undertake military action against another country, whether large scale (as in the invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan) or small (the bombing of the Osiraq reactor)?

65 Years June 6th, 1944-June 6th, 2009

2009-06-06T22:56:00.000-07:00

In the middle of the night sixty-five years ago today, soldiers from the US 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions and the British 1st Airborne Division jumped out of their troop-carrier airplanes and parachuted into Normandy, France.

Hours later, one and a half million soldiers from the United States, Britain, England, and Canada stormed the beaches of Normandy, struggling onto the beaches amidst a hail of German gunfire. In seizing this mere 60 miles of beachhead, they began the great endeavor to liberate Europe from Nazi oppression.

Most people, unfortunately, do not remember why today is important, but for me today is especially important, because these heroic men (along with their then-comrades in the Soviet Red Army) saved many Jews, Gypsies, Russians, Poles, intellectuals, homosexuals, political prisoners, etc. from murder at the hands of the Nazis (even when millions of others had already been murdered). My grandparents were at Buchenwald when American soldiers, among them the president's uncle, liberated it.

In the end, the total monetary loss of World War II cannot be accurately estimated, but over 50 million people, civilians and soldiers, died in a war that never should have started--but did. All I ask is that today people remember that on this day and for nearly a year after it sixty-five years ago, thousands of those 50 million people died so that this world would remain untouched by further stomping under the heels of the Nazi jackboot. Because of the valor displayed by those soldiers, the Nazis are a few thousand crazed white-supremacists in a few underarmed and irrelevant militias, the Hebrew language is spoken by over thirteen million Jews today, and when newly inducted members of the Israel Defense Forces are sworn in at the ruins of Masada, they say this: never again. I add this: never forget.

Summer Projects cries

2009-06-06T15:54:00.000-07:00

Summer is the ultimate time of the year to relax. Just think: popsicles (and ice cream and frozen yogurt and all of the best fruits only available this season to top them off with), road trips, late nights followed by late mornings, watching thunderstorms from the porch (a personal favorite), bicycles, picnics, going barefoot...and...

Then your soon-to-be Honors/AP English teacher thrusts an ominously thick packet at you before you can escape, squishing the sense of freedom in which you'd been hoping to roll around the moment the bell rings on the final day of school.

Don't get me wrong, I love reading. I have a massive list of books I hope to read before school starts, and that includes rereading all seven Harry Potter books. But--and I'm sure even the most intense bookworm would agree with me--summer reading projects are a drag.

Usually by the time summer is over, I never want to open that darned classic book again because I've spent hours and days and weeks identifying character, motifs, plot, setting, defining a hundred vocabulary words, rereading each chapter three times, and answering fifty questions. And, without the hardcore analysis, I probably would have enjoyed the book, too!

Summer is the one time I can read for days on end without being inturrupted by homework and studying. It's the one time I can read a million books from my list and enjoy them.

Teachers need to seek the most dedicated students, and a project outside of school is the perfect way for them to do this, so the assignment is understandable. However, the problem is that both of the projects I heaved to my new teacher on the first day of school for both my eighth and ninth grade years were just glanced at. I recieved a check-plus. No comments, no filled-out rubric, nothing. I could have done a horrible job and still recieved a credit grade.

Anyway...

What do you think about summer projects? Are they beneficial or just a waste of time?

What book are you reading for your summer project?

On a brighter note, what books are you going to read for pleasure this summer?

Are women born like this?

2009-06-06T10:03:00.000-07:00

Amusing video my cousin just sent me. Ladies, are we really this bad?

Attention all SKINNY JEAN lovers!!!!!!!

2009-06-05T19:05:00.000-07:00

Attention all lovers of such things as, My Chemical Romance, eyeliner, or just the fashion of the hugely poplar SKINNY JEAN!!!! You may look the best in a long line of your friends, or make a statement by looking different than anyone around but is it worth the risk of NERVE DAMAGE??Yes its is true all my fellow skinny jean lovers out there there has been many reported cases of Meralgia Paresthetica, a tingling sensation in the thigh and lower leg that can be caused by that lovely pair of skin fitting jeans that you are looking cauciously down at right this moment!!! Well this story despite it's odd nature caught my attention and got me thinking.......

Should i put my Tight jeans on the hanger?

Or stick it to my nerves and look great doing it?

What do you think??

Donuts on the brain?...

2009-06-05T06:01:00.000-07:00

I swear ALL my posts won't be about food, but this fodder was just too funny to resist...

Just as Sonic resturants were celebrating the wonders of 'Free Float Day', today people of the 'US of A' are celebrating National Donut Day!

Always falling on the first Friday in June, HolidayInsights.com says the holiday originally "honors the Salvation Army 'Lassies' of WWI," and is also used to raise money for the Salvation Army.

There actually IS some history behind this kooky, (but delicious!) holiday! These volunteer 'lassies' were sent to the front lines of Europe to crank out home-cooked foods and also provide some vital moral support for the troops. HolidayInsights.com even says that these donuts were often cooked in oil inside of the soldier's helmets...(yum, right?)

The first celebration of the holiday came around in 1938 by the Chicago Salvation Army to raise funds during the Great Depression. They copied the original scheme of making donuts for the troops, and thus 'National Donut Day' is born!

So that leaves me wondering... - Anyone cruising by Krispy Kreme?

School's out!!

2009-06-04T19:30:00.000-07:00

So today was the last day of school down here, and you know I can't help but rub it in. =D

What have you guys got planned for the summer? Any fun trips? Big plans?

If you can't beat 'em, join 'em!

2009-06-04T11:54:00.000-07:00

Having spent the better part of...I want to say 2 years, lurking around the now-defunct official Vox Box blog, mostly as an attack dog and the comic relief, I come...in peace (yes, cheesy and cliche!!! *claps*). Alright, seriously, alien humor aside, I thank Nick and the ladies for the opportunity to be a contributor to this magnificent endeavor.

About me:

My name is Jeremiah Max Salinger, and I am 19 year old college sophomore at Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, Arkansas. I'm majoring in Wildlife Ecology & Management, concentration in Commercial Fisheries with minors in Evolutionary Psychology and Marine Science. How did I end up in the hotbed of intolerance in America (just kidding)? Well, I lived there for ten years until my parents split up, upon which I moved Spokane with my mother. I'm an alum of Lincoln Heights Elementary (and not that new one...the old school, yeah...I'm old), Chase Middle School, and Ferris High School, Class of 2008...Saxons rule the world, by the way. :)

As I may have revealed in posts to the old blog, I was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome, a high functioning form of Autism at the age of 10. Asperger's Syndrome is characterized by physical clumsiness, difficulties in social interaction, specific subject obsession (usually in childhood...mine was airline flight timetables), and a lack of cognitive retardation...to summarize, I walk, talk, think, smart off, etc. just like any other person now that I've had years of intensive therapy...still clumsy though. In case anyone wonders, my position on the whole idea of "Oh, what if we could cure your condition?" is that 1) I don't consider what I have to be a condition--it is a gift from G-d and 2) If there ever was a cure, I wouldn't want it and I believe that any self-respecting person with AS should reject it as well--if the world cures its people with Autism disorders, it can say goodbye to the best musical, mathematical, literary, scientific, and dramatic minds it has ever seen.

Okay, next up. The casual viewer may not have noticed that when I described my diagnosis of AS as a gift, I didn't spell out His name. Why? As a Jew (Reform with Zionist leanings, in case anyone is interested), I believe to be an affront to G-d to spell out his name on a medium that can be destroyed because destroying the medium is destroying praise of Him (it is sacrilege, akin to what I think Christians would call taking His name in vain, yes?). On a similar cord, I am pretty strongly pro-Israel, and I'm not ashamed of it...among groups and people that torque me off are Amnesty International (sometimes...ever since that woman from Frisco came to my senior year CWA class, I've been a bit bitter) and Uri Avnery. That is not to say that I don't advocate peace in the Middle East--on the contrary, I do. I also am supportive of the two-state solution, one for Jews and one for Palestinians. However, I will not support the second state being run by terrorists.

Alright, serious stuff aside...time for random trivia.

Favorite color: red
Favorite authors: Tom Clancy, Brad Thor, Michael Connelly, Vince Flynn, Nelson DeMille, Karen Traviss, Michael Oren (yes, him)
Average daily coffee intake: ~ 2 pots
Birthday: July 11th
Hobbies: Computer gaming (mainly tycoon games, Call of Duty, Top Chef, and Civilizations), reading (except for this lit class I'm taking on the Internet...250 pages in a week is insane!), cooking, and being a newsie (right now, I've got CNN on TV, and four of my five tabs open right now are the Spokesman Review, the Wall Street Journal, The Jerusalem Post, and The Guardian)

Any other questions about me, feel free to post them. My beat will be international news, with a focus on the Middle East...most articles will come from the Jerusalem Post and either Al Jazeera or Al Arabiya. If I get kind of fiery in my responses...well...I'm passionate. :) Okay, next poor schmuck's turn!

Some literary fun

2009-06-03T17:40:00.000-07:00

Hello again...Katie here.
I'm in the midst of writing my final paper for English, and I thought I would share something with the internet community. My paper is about searching for your identity and how that relates to some of the literature I've read this year and I wanted to share a short story with you. It's called "Girl" by Jamaica Kincaid. It's really cool and well-written and here it is for you to check out. http://bcs.bedfordstmartins.com/virtualit/fiction/Girl/Girl.pdf

It's written in an interesting style (all dialogue) and I really enjoyed it.

Comments: Let me know what you think about it...Nothing really specific, don't even read it if you don't want.

Anyone going to Sonic?

2009-06-03T06:00:00.000-07:00

Ok - You know I'm a go-to girl for some random food facts, (weird but true, I recall some of the odd 'Food New's posts from the former VOX...) but here's a good one...better yet! Make that a 'free' one.

Today, and today only, Sonic resturants are celebrating their 'FREE Float Night'. What's the catch?, you ask: That's the best part, there isn't one! These classic drive-in food joints are offering up an absolutely free 10 oz. Root Beer float between the hours of 8pm and midnight! Just drive on up and get your classic summer treat. (And let me tell you, those things can be addictive...)

Let's take a cue from Sonic and celebrate summer, - it's almost here, school's almost out!

Question!: Summer is all about the frozen-deliciousness; What's your favorite ice cream flavor? Ice cream treat?

Greetings Fellow Humans, Its Nick!!

2009-05-31T21:44:00.000-07:00

Hello all you people, I go by the title of Nick Wright. I live in a small little town called Oakesdale, Wa. I have made the choice to take Katie and Chloe's idea's on this whole blogger intro thing!! Well like I said, I'm Nick and I have never blogged before in my life so we will see how this whole thing goes. Back in the days of the good ol' Vox Box I was an loyal follower so when I herd from Chloe that it was going to be no more I was sad to say the least. Then her next news hit me THERE IS GOING TO BE A NEW ONE OPEN FOR ANYONE!!!! O MY GOSH was my first reaction as I had the brainstorm that I might be able to be known as one of the WELL KNOWN Vox Bloggers!!! Yes that would rock and a few weeks later HERE I AM!!!! Soooooo.... what am I into well I love MUSIC is....well...Stellar to say the least!!! I am the front man in a Punk/Alternative band entitled Fading Anchor and I love it! My next biggest hobby is going to concerts (weird that is something music related) MOSHING to say the least!!! I also love mountain biking and hanging out with my stellar homiez..(oh and my JEEP rules). Well all in all I am VERY proud to say I am a VOX BLOGGER and all you guys should expect to see lots from me!!!

So peace 4now!!!!

Blog Intro!

2009-05-31T17:59:00.000-07:00

Hey guys! So, taking a leaf out of Katie and Chloe's book, I'm posting my own quick introduction. I'm Caitlin, and I'm the Vox's crosscountry correspondent (in other words, I live in Dallas). I wrote for the Vox for two years and was extremely reluctant to leave it behind when we moved last summer, so Erin offered me a position on the blog, which I happily accepted. Now on to the random trivia:

-My favorite color is dark purple.
-I have two dogs, one a pug-daschund mix and the other a German shepard-terrier mix.
-I am one of the few teenage girls in existence who does not like Twilight.
-Books I DO like, however, include Harry Potter, Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell by Susanna Clarke, and Ishmael by Daniel Quinn (every single one of you needs to go read that last one, right now; I mean it).
-I will be a senior in four days (the nice thing about living down here is that we don't have ages of snow days to make up :D).
-My favorite bands are (at the moment) U2, Coldplay, Snow Patrol, and Keane, though I've found few bands I don't like.
-I'm so hooked on coffee that my parents got me an espresso machine last Christmas because doing so would ultimately save them money, since I wouldn't be borrowing cash for Starbucks all the time.
-I am an avid writer who loves her characters almost as much as she loves forcing them into awful situations.
-I've participated in National Novel Writing Month the past two years. Made it year before last, didn't even come close last year, hoping to make it again this year.

I think that covers the basics. I look forward to continuing to blog with you guys, and I hope we get as much traffic as we did on the Spokesman site. Tell your friends to get over here and post!

Any random tidbits about yourself you'd like to share?

Hello World!, it's CHLOE!

2009-05-31T07:29:00.000-07:00

So. Katie here had a stinkin' amazing idea: Blogger Introductions! You guys will, of course, want to know a little about the lives of your devoted bloggers! (Plus, I absolutely love to fill out all things 'quiz-questionaire-personality' related...It's a winning situation for all sides!)

Here's my own version of a Blogger Questionaire! It's all the things I love, (cleverly called 'All The Things I LOVE!)

1. Ice cream! - Especially frozen yogurt! I could probably eat myself out of an Olympic-sized swimming pool if it was filled with the wonderful concoction known as 'fro-yo'...
2. Rain!
3. Blogging! - Well, I just can't picture life without it after having been on the VOX blog-staff last year. I'm definately going to put 110%...no...120% (!) into this new blog-project! Who's with me?!? :D
4. Cupcake and Shake! - (It's a comic-strip me and Nick write: Just two little desserts going on adventures...) They're featured in the ZINE we write, called The INFINATE Zine. Check out the website at http://ihearttheinfinatezine.webs.com/!!!
5. Big Piles of Fallen Leaves! - Fun to jump in, pounce on, dance in, scoop into the air!
6. Music! - Like Katie, I'm all about mix CD's, classic mix tapes, and old vinyls - Collecting is a passion. LOVE concerts, moshing (! yee-haw!) and concert-photography. The pic up right is one from the mosh pit of an ahhh mazing concert I went to last summer..:D.
7. My Guitar - Now that's something I would definitely bring to my deserted island...
8. My betafishy 'Buddha' - I discussed him earlier in my reply to Katie's post..:D
9. COFFEE! - I can't believe it took me this long to remember my LOVE for it! Yeah - I kinda got a little reputation as a hardcore coffee-addict on the previous VOX. Anyone wanna go for a cup today? :) I'm game!
10. My Community! - Sure, I'm definately out here in 'the boonies', but it's a great place to be. Got great friends! Great music (mostly made by my friends!..) Great school! It just truly is an awesome place to get together for youth group, random games of frisbee, or just to eat pizza and do nothing at the park. (But I've always got my fellow bloggers to keep me updated on the city-life!!)

So there you have it! My 'Tip-Top 10!'

All-Important Question!: What are a couple of items off of YOUR list?

Introducing...Katie

2009-05-30T21:50:00.000-07:00

Hey there, Internet. I’m Katie. It’s a pleasure to meet you. You are currently reading my FIRST EVER blog post. Sure, I’ve commented before, but this is for real. Before you decide to dedicate precious minutes of your life to reading any of my future posts, you probably want to know a little bit about me.
I didn’t quite know what to say, so I asked some of my friends what they would say about me.
· Whenever I think about Katie, I think about music…or something like that (Nik)
· Hmmm…Kickin dancer (Kathleen…that may be sarcastic)
· Germs! (Hannah…it’s a history joke)
· She’s a really good friend and my musical soulmate (Mychaela)
· Hmmm…maybe something about how she loves music (Sydney)
· Unique. Personality. Giving. (Hailey)
· Katie’s the most genuinely nice person anyone’s ever met. (Kelli)

Because we’re going to be best friends, there are a few things you should know about me. So, here’s a questionnaire.
1. Name- Katie
2. Birthday – January 13
3. Favorite color – electric blue
4. One thing you would save in a fire – This is a tough question… probably my computer because it has all of my pictures and music
5. Pets- Ummm, no
6. Favorite activity – Going to concerts with my friends
7. Three things to have on a deserted island – Well, obviously, I would bring a plane and a pilot and solve the issue but that would spoil the fun. So, I would have to say my iPod, a book and a friend.
You can find everything else about me if you click on xoxoKatie in the sidebar, so head over there if you want to know a little bit more about me. Basically, I’m a girl; I love music, concerts, my friends, reading, writing, the Pacific Northwest, mix CDs, VH1 reality TV, Current TV documentaries, laughing, soccer, lacrosse, and having fun. Thanks for spending the time to get to know me and I can’t wait to blog some more!

Read. Think. Type. Rock.
Katie

Comments: Tell me one random fact about yourself

The NEW Vox: Come One - Come All!

2009-05-30T09:07:00.000-07:00

So - you've finally arrived! As you probably know, (especially if you're a past-follower of The Vox Box or The Vox newspaper), we've suffered a loss. Well, a big loss. Once funded by The Spokesman-Review newspaper of Spokane, Washington, we lost funding, thus we lost the publication...

But never fear! Rae and I, (with lots of other awesome writing rockstars...) have spearheaded THIS! You're feasting your eyes on the NEW VOX BOX! We got our rights to the name and we hauled it over to BlogSpot. As a baby-blog, we really need you guys to read, comment, spread the word!

It's our passion to getting teens together to voice their opinions, be informed, and blog our brains out! The Vox Box will live on!

As you can see, we're still in the construction-phase: adding our authors and finding our way an identity through 'blog-land', but with YOUR help The Vox Box will rock. Rock on, readers!

The Vox Box

Porsche or should i say Volkswagen????

The Celebrities have Arrived! - Yeah...So have the Emmys

HERE IS SOME NEWS FOR YOU!!

Getting the Blog-ball rollin'...again!

One for the ladies...

Top Ten...(Making it last...)

School week? Naaa...Fashion Week!

Top 10

INGLORIOUS BASTARDS!!!

Need A Laugh?

Tweets from the Deceased

Need A Laugh?

Teen multi-tasking

How big is your impact?

It's been awhile...Top 10!

Check Out...The Shweeb!

Cravin' some Bacon?

Hey Sponge!

Check out...

Music games in full swing

Texting teen falls into open manhole

Popping the top on energy drinks

Top Ten: Nice and Frozen...

Hollywood Undead Review!!!

More Summer Fun

Good Symposium, I suppose...

New Music For Your Ears

Sick Shows Coming up:Hollywood Undead

Summer fun

Internet Hot Spots You Might've Missed

Bring on the cake!...

Rest in peace, Michael Jackson

Spotlight: Seth MacFarlane!!

Follow the "beating drums and rainbow cloaks"...

California Dreamin

Blow a kiss, get denied your diploma?

Les Claypool!?!?!

Week in Review

Read up on (RED)NIGHTS

President Peanut at it again...

Wizard Rock!

Vox Spotlight?????

Northwest Lovin'

Toilet planters on display...

Bomb, Bomb, Bomb, Bomb, Bomb...Iran?

65 Years June 6th, 1944-June 6th, 2009

Summer Projects *cries*

Are women born like this?

Attention all SKINNY JEAN lovers!!!!!!!

Donuts on the brain?...

School's out!!

If you can't beat 'em, join 'em!

Some literary fun

Anyone going to Sonic?

Greetings Fellow Humans, Its Nick!!

Blog Intro!

Hello World!, it's CHLOE!

Introducing...Katie

The NEW Vox: Come One - Come All!

Summer Projects cries