Look at the picture below:

What do you see? Do you see a powerful, independent, intellectual woman? Or do you assume other characteristics that could define her simply based on her gender and the color of her skin? I would not be surprised if your initial words were: kind, loving, nurturing, and graceful. Nor would I be surprised if you said the following: ethnic, exotic, and spicy (my least favorite). The person in the image, is me! Don’t feel bad, it is not unusual for one to use gender or racial terms to describe somebody, however, the real question that needs to be addressed is the following: why are people quick to describe somebody with a gender or racial related term simply based off of what they see? Surprisingly, the answer lies in front of your face without you knowing it – media.

This then brings the criteria and questions that I will be attempting to answer in this blog: What is media’s contribution to gender or racial stereotyping? In this blog alone, I will be discussing the affects that media has on Latina perceptions.

A bit of review before we get started…

As learned from my Introduction to Communication course, perception is the process by which we come to understand the stimuli (any sensory information) in our world. Culture is the sum of knowledge, beliefs, values, and patterns of behavior shared by members of a group. Mass media are outlets through which mass communication messages are conveyed, such as television, radio, print, media formats, and the internet.

Using logic: culture defines our perception. Perception is taught. Therefore, can our culture/perception be influenced/reflect what we see in media?

Clara E. Rodriguez attempts to answer this question with her book America, as seen on TV:

“It has been found that the way in which gender and particular racial and ethnic groups are portrayed tends to convey and reinforce views of these groups as marginal, or lower social status, and irrelevant (as groups) to the main story lines… Researchers have also found that when racial and ethnic characters are involved, they tend to be cast not in lead roles but in supporting silent-extra roles,”

(Rodriguez, America, as seen on TV: how television shapes immigrant expectations around the globe, 2018, pp. 17-19).

Even more shocking to us was when I read about the powerful impact of misrepresentations, as Merkins discusses the accumulation theory:

“[I]f the mass media, including advertising, present information in ways that are consistent, persistent, and corroborated, this instruction is likely to have long-term, power effects. Stereotyping, as a media effect, gains power and credibility the longer and more regularly the same information is presented, in the same way, to the same audiences,”

(Rodriguez, America, as seen on TV: how television shapes immigrant expectations around the globe, 2018, pp. 17-19).

Movies, television shows, and any other form of media is supposed to reflect society. Because of this, people correlate what they see on television or movies as truth. Take my own experience. Whenever one heard that I was Latina, they quickly think of the following images:

Latina’s are thought of as maids, hot nurses, sex symbols, if not maids, then sexy maids, and “cholas,” this is a term used to describe a female gangster. How is it that people jump to this conclusion?

The following video describes how media affects ethnic portrayal. Please be advised that the interviewee does curse in the YouTube video, so viewer discretion is advised.

I hope that this blog helped show the affects that media has had on Latina women and other minorities. However, there is still some hope for the future as discussed in Rodiguez’s book:

“These results point to the strong possibility that media messages can meaningfully impact on the self-concept and esteem of racial/ethnic audiences, given more plentiful and constructive characterizations.”

(Mastro, “Race and Ethnicity in U.S. Media Content and Effects”, 2017).

Only time will tell when racial stereotyping will continue or devolve in the next upcoming years.

It may come to no surprise that I have an eclectic taste in all entertainment categories: music, movies, but most especially, my TV shows! Find yourself in a weird funk? Need some time to just not think about your own problems and want to watch someone else’s life be filled with drama? Well, don’t you fret, I have the top five TV shows that will help you “tune in, turn off, drop out, drop in, switch off, switch on, and explode.” (lyrics from: Being for the Benefit of Mr. Kite).

1. Chilling Adventures of Sabrina

Fun, spooky, spell-binding, and sexy! This newly adapted version of Sabrina has gotten me under a spell. Amazing style of clothing, hilarious jokes, intense drama, but most importantly: hot guys – like REALLY hot guys! lol Here is a small summary of the first episode if you are interested: Sabrina Spellman is about to turn 16—on Halloween no less. She spends her days hanging with her boyfriend Harvey, and best friends Roz and Susie. However, on her 16th birthday she must fully embrace her witch half through a dark baptism, where she will pledge loyalty to the Dark Lord Satan. But Sabrina is torn, as she must choose between her friends and her family. Sabrina spends the days leading up to her birthday finding answers to her questions about the ritual. Meanwhile, Sabrina’s mortal teacher Mary Wardwell is killed and then possessed by Madam Satan, who seeks to bring Sabrina over to the Dark Lord’s side. Sabrina must also deal with three sister witches known as the Weird Sisters, who look down on her for being a “half-breed”. The clever story plot where Mormons are the villains to the clever writing where witches say the opposite “christian” sayings (for example: “what the heaven?,” “Oh, for Satan’s sake,” etc.). This show will keep you entertained!

Here is a trailer for all three seasons 🙂 You are welcome.

2. The Terror

The Terror is an anthology series that combines fictional historical facts with mysterious and horror fiction. Not only does it keep you on the edge of your seat, but it helps you wonder and ponder for days about the horrific events that unfolded in the series. Here is a summary of the first episode of season 1 if you are curious: A title card informs the viewer that Sir John Franklin’s Arctic expedition was never seen again. In the opening sequence, James Ross is speaking to a Netsilik man in a tent who encountered the expedition’s last survivors, under the leadership of Captain Francis Crozier, and informs Ross they were being pursued south by a creature called “Tuunbaq” and are now “dead and gone.” Four years earlier, in September 1846, Captain Sir John Franklin’s Royal Navy expedition aboard HMS Erebus and HMS Terror are attempting the first crossing of the Northwest Passage in the Arctic Archipelago. The expedition runs into difficulty when a collision with an iceberg damages Erebus‘s propeller. Francis Crozier, captain of the Terror and second-in-command of the expedition, becomes concerned about becoming stranded in the pack ice above the Arctic Circle through winter, and recommends to Franklin that they shift all men from Erebus to Terror and steam south aboard Terror to avoid becoming trapped in winter ice. Franklin overrules Crozier’s concerns and presses the expedition further west in the belief that the ships can complete transit before the onset of thick ice. Before the ships can reach open water, however, they become frozen and trapped…

I hope these two trailers convince you to watch these spooky, mysterious, and historic series!

3. ALTERED CARBON

Set in the distant future, people have managed to be able to put their consciousness into a mechanical disk where people are able to switch in and out of bodies as they see fit. In this series, a millionaire is found murdered in his own home and he decides to use the help of two detectives, but here is the twist: one of these detectives has a different soul from 250 years ago! Here is a summary of the first episode: Convicted criminal Takeshi Kovacs awakens in a new body after two and a half centuries to help an extremely rich man, Laurens Bancroft, solve his own murder. He died just before his consciousness was uploaded and saved to a satellite, and the evidence suggests it was a suicide. Bancroft offers Kovacs a massive amount of wealth and Kovacs’ freedom, but Kovacs declines. He is briefly interrogated by a police officer called Ortega, but makes it clear he doesn’t want the case. Just before he checks into a gothic hotel run by an artificial intelligence, Kovacs is attacked by a high-class hitman called Dimitri. As Kovacs has been gone for two hundred and fifty years, he believes someone really did kill Bancroft and takes the case.

Luckily for my readers, a NEW season is planned to come out at the end of this month (February 27) with Anthony Mackie! Just in time for you all to watch the first season! Here are the trailers:

4. BLACK MIRROR

Ever wonder what the world would be like if we allowed technology to take advantage of each and every part of our lives? I know it already is, but think one step further. Well, that is EXACTLY what Black Mirror attempts to show with their anthology series that seem to scream: WARNING! Every time attempt to watch these series, I have to take it one episode at a time because they freak me out!! There are 5 seasons all together – but the good thing about anthology series is that each episode is its own thing, so you can easily go from one season to the next without having to worry about following a story plot! The best description would be the following saying: “Its the modern Twilight Zone.” I went ahead and placed all three of the five trailers for the last three seasons to try to convince you to watch these series:

5. FRINGE

Last, but certainly not least, this is the television series that I have watched time and time again since 2010! The series follows Olivia Dunham, Peter Bishop, and Walter Bishop, all members of the fictional Fringe Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, based in Boston, Massachusetts, under the supervision of Homeland Security. The team uses fringe science and FBI investigative techniques to investigate a series of unexplained, often ghastly occurrences, which are related to mysteries surrounding a parallel universe. As mentioned, you might be wondering what “fringe” science is and here is the best definition I could find: paranormal sciences that include: telekinesis, mind control, teleportation, genetic mutations reanimation, and parallel universe jumping are just a few of the things that occur over this six seasoned television series and it is a MUST SEE!

Times are changing and so have the technological advancements that have occurred in the last century – however, nobody has discussed the way technology has changed the newspaper industry and itself as a medium. We are blessed with a wealth of news sources on the Internet to choose from, we have become less reliant on traditional printed newspaper as the main source for information about the world or our country. For both better or worse reasons, the internet has dramatically changed the way newspapers are read and run. In this blog, I will be discussing the benefits and consequences of the internet on the newspaper industry.

1. Declining Readership:
   According to the Pew Research Center’s “State of the News Media” report, both the number of newspapers and the number of adults reading them have declined since 1999! Sadly, this decline is true no matter what race, income level or education. Yet, there have been an incline of about 17% for online news sites since 2011 – so, in a way, the internet has helped newspapers branch out to a larger audience despite the decline of printed newspapers being read.
   
2. Cost Cutting:
   Just like with any business, newspapers also have to be careful about their finances and budgeting. When income declines, expenses have to be cut. Sadly, the first thing to cut off, are its workers – as such, layoffs or forced retirements occur. According to the 2010 census conducted from the American Society of News Editors, the number of jobs have declined at around 27%!
   
3. Changes in News Publishing Formats:
   As mentioned in our textbook, numerous newspaper corporations and companies are having to change the format and reinvented as people come to realize that they can provide the news about the environment they live in. Another response that newspapers are now doing is sharing information as its currently happening via social media. There are now more platforms than ever for newspapers to reach out to readers utilizing things such as: Twitter, Snapchat, and Facebook. This also changes the dynamic between readers and the newspaper companies because it allows its readers to respond to their work; whether that be criticizing, analyzing, accepting, or sharing it with fellow friends and family.
   
   4. Credibility
   The credibility of numerous news source are always at the brink of being called out due to the “fake news” movement. This, being an unfortunate time for journalists and reporters alike, has challenged the industry via online and on paper. However, a positive outcome of this, is that reporters have all gathered together to support one another during this hardship in their career. Not only pushing forth the right of the first amendment, but also the power of information and the belief to share that forward to society.

Surprisingly, I receive my newspaper readings via email – both because it is cheaper to receive them that way, but also because I want to save the environment by not throwing out paper. I like to receive my newspapers from various sources, such as: Los Angeles Times, The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The Boston Globe. I personally do not want to only stick with one located paper because they could have different viewpoints of the same story.

Sources:

“State of the News Media.” Pew Research Center, Pew Research Center, 9 July 2019, http://www.pewresearch.org/topics/state-of-the-news-media/.

“Resources.” ASNE Resources, members.newsleaders.org/resources.

Baran, Stanley J. Introduction to Mass Communication: Media Literacy and Culture. McGraw-Hill Education, 2019.

1. Women’s March
   As I was getting driven back in an Uber to my apartment, I heard on the radio about the annual Women’s March that is planned to occur in Washington DC on January 18, 2020. Prior to listening to the radio advertisement, I did not know that there was an annual march and also, did not know that it will be occurring in DC next week during my stay. I decided to research further into the event and sadly found this article by the Washington Post:

The importance and popularity of the march has declined: ” The 2020 Women’s March expects about 10,000 people to attend Saturday’s march to the White House, according to a permit application filed with the National Park Service. About 4,500 people have indicated on Facebook they will attend.”

2. The Vatican Goes Digital

As I was scrolling through Facebook, one of our Allara Library librarians posted that the Vatican Library digitized tens of thousands of manuscripts, books, coins, and more. The link in reading about this story is here: http://www.openculture.com/2020/01/the-vatican-library-goes-online-and-digitizes-tens-of-thousands-of-manuscripts-books-coins-and-more.html?fbclid=IwAR3dhQ_8c46UmUqsddjn-hU_LzVvs90N3l7G40MJoWFAtLgrx3FmpFFcHuA

3. Puerto Rico Earthquake

While passing through the apartment lobby earlier this week, CNN happened to be playing in the background when it announced that Puerto Rico was struck by not one, but two earthquakes. It later went viral on Twitter.

4. Jazz played the Wizards

This became a popular spot on my Snapchat feed and I got the chance to watch others posts about what was occurring during the game.

5. Women outnumber men in the US Workforce

While scrolling through Instagram, The Washington Post, posted an image of two briefcases sharing the following information: “For just the second time in history, women outnumbered men as the majority of the U.S. paid workforce. It’s the second time ever, and now it could be permanent.”

I have now completed an item off my bucket list: run a half marathon  ✅ 

(I know, I look like a hot mess. But cut me some slack, I had just finished running 13.1 miles)

Here’s a link for some Louisville upcoming events if you are interested: Upcoming Events

However, I could not have done it without the help of the beautiful city of Louisville in the state of Kentucky. So for this weeks blog, I will be sharing:

a. The Correct Pronunciation of Louisville

b. The History of Louisville

c. The Top 5 places to Take Selfies At

d. 5 Things to do for $10

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Pronunciation

Now pronunciation might not seem like a big deal, but it is for Kentucky residents. How would you feel if somebody came into your state trying to change the pronunciation of your hometown? Not fun or funny. So here is a small image to help with pronounciation:

OR

You could also follow these two different ways to pronounce it as mentioned by U of L Assistant Professor of Linguistics, Elizabeth Patton.LOO-A-VUL: “Yes.”

LOO-A-VILLE: “Yes.”

LOOEYVILLE: “No.”

LOUIS-VILLE: “Oh definitely wrong.”

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History

Louisville, largest city in Kentucky, U.S., and the seat of Jefferson county, opposite the Falls of the Ohio River. Louisville is the centre of a metropolitan area including Jefferson county in Kentucky and Clark and Floyd counties in Indiana. Bridges spanning the Ohio link the city with New Albany and Jeffersonville, Indiana. Following a referendum passed in 2000, the city and Jefferson county merged in 2003, thereby more than doubling the city’s population and increasing its area more than sixfold.

The first recorded visit to the area by Europeans was on July 8 (my birthday), 1773 (not my birth year), when Captain Thomas Bullitt arrived to survey the lands with a commission from the governor of Virginia. During the American Revolution, a group of settlers accompanying the American officer George Rogers Clark settled (May 1778) on Corn Island (since swept away by floods) opposite Beargrass Creek, where Clark organized a base for the conquest of the British-held Old Northwest. Most of the settlers who came with him moved ashore the following winter and established Fort-on-Shore (Fort Nelson) within the present city limits. The town was organized in 1779 and named for Louis XVI of France; it was incorporated as a town the following year.

By 1811 Louisville had become an important frontier and river-flatboat trading place, and its development was further stimulated that year when Captain Nicholas Roosevelt docked the New Orleans, the first successful steamboat to ply the waters of the Ohio and Mississippi rivers. The city had become a major river port by 1820, and further stimulation came about with the construction (1825–30) of the canal around the 25-foot- (8-metre-) high Falls. Louisville’s commercial influence extended over a vast area of the South and the Midwest. During the American Civil War, the city served as a military headquarters and a major Union supply depot. It escaped the ravages of war and became an important way station for slaves seeking freedom in Indiana, across the river. A vigorous campaign to reclaim the South’s trade followed the war. In the 1880s the Louisville and Nashville Railroad was extended to Jacksonville, Florida.

The city’s economy was boosted during World War I when Camp Zachary Taylor was built nearby, and, later, when Fort Knox was enlarged. Periodic flooding of the Ohio necessitated extensive protection work; a destructive flood in 1937 caused widespread damage.

New industries were established during World War II, notably the production of synthetic rubber. The city is a leading producer of bonded bourbon whiskey and cigarettes. In addition to synthetic rubber, other products include paint and varnish, aluminum items, appliances, automobiles, pottery, and printed matter. Services are increasingly important, notably health care administration, and Louisville International Airport is a national hub of air cargo traffic. Tourism is also an important component of the economy. The American Printing House for the Blind (1858), which publishes books in Braille, is located in Louisville, as is the headquarters of the Hillerich & Bradsby Company, makers of the famed Louisville Slugger baseball bats (although most bats are now made elsewhere).

The University of Louisville was founded in 1798 as Jefferson Seminary. The city is also the seat of two Roman Catholic institutions—Spalding University (1814) and Bellarmine College (1950). Southern Baptist (1859) and Louisville Presbyterian (1853) theological seminaries are also in the city. The J.B. Speed Art Museum and the Louisville Science Center are other notable institutions.

As the scene of the annual Kentucky Derby, held every May at Churchill Downs since 1875, the city’s name has become synonymous with horse racing. The Kentucky State Fair, one of the oldest agricultural fairs in the United States, features an annual horse show that closely rivals the Derby in interest. Many historic buildings, including the homes of George Rogers Clark and an early residence of inventor Thomas Edison, are open to the public. The stern-wheeler Belle of Louisville holds its annual race with the Delta Queen during the Kentucky Derby Festival. 

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Top 5 Places to Take Selfies @

Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory Louisville Slugger Baseball Bat

8th & Main streets

Supersized stats: 120-feet tall, weighing 68,000 pounds

Fun facts: The “World’s Largest Baseball Bat,” at the entrance of the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, has been towering over Louisville’s skyline since 1996. Made of steel, it’s an exact-scale replica of the 34-inch Louisville Slugger bat that baseball legend Babe Ruth batted with in the 1920’s.

 

Evan Williams Bourbon Experience Rocks Glass

6th & Main streets

Supersized stats: 6-by-6-foot cylinder, 1,264 gallons

Fun facts: In the front window of its lobby, the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience features a giant Bourbon bottle pouring into an oversized rocks glass. If the glass were actually filled with Bourbon, it would hold 1,264 gallons – aka – 23 full barrels of Bourbon. That’s more than 6,000 750ml bottles and more than 100,000 Bourbon shots. Let the good times pour! If you really want to sample some Bourbon, be sure and pop into the distillery to take the tour, which includes a Bourbon tasting.

 

Angel’s Envy Mural

500 E. Main St.

Supersized stats: 8-feet wide,

30-feet tall

Fun facts: Get in the Louisville spirit and stop by the Main Street distillery to take a selfie in front of this Bourbon mural created by Louisville artist Bryan Patrick Todd.

 

21c Museum Hotel David Statue

7th & Main streets

Supersized stats: 30-feet tall

Fun facts: Inspired by Michelangelo’s 16th century marble statue of David, artist Serkan Ozkaya created three double-sized, golden replicas of the world-famous sculpture, one of which landed on Louisville’s Main Street in 2012. Its journey from Istanbul, Turkey, included a stop in New York City before it found its final resting place in front of the 21c Museum Hotel.

 

Caufield’s Vampire Bat

10th & Main streets

Supersized stats: 30-feet tall, 15-feet wide, 1,500 pounds

Fun facts: With the world’s longest-known cave system at Mammoth Cave National Park in south central Kentucky (less than 100 miles away), it makes sense that a larger-than-life vampire bat made its way to Louisville’s Caufield’s. The novelty shop has been a local favorite since the 1920s for folks looking for a unique Halloween costume or festive New Year’s Eve party favors. Built in-house in 2004, it’s the second giant bat to make its way to Louisville’s Main Street (The Louisville Slugger baseball bat is the first).

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5 Things to do for $10

Louisville Cream

Satisfy your sweet tooth with a scoop of Louisville Cream. The small-batch gourmet ice cream shop pays homage to its Bourbon City roots with tasty flavors like Bourbon Smoked Pecan. About $4 per scoop

 

Big Four® Bridge

 

Get some fresh air during a stroll or bike ride on the Big Four Bridge. The bicycle and pedestrian bridge spans the Ohio River and connects Louisville to Jeffersonville, Ind. The two-mile, round-trip journey offers breathtaking views of the city, river and Waterfront Park. Be sure to take in the bridge’s light show that starts every evening at sunset. Free

 

Speed Art Museum

Take a free tour on Sunday of the Speed Art Museum, the oldest, largest and foremost museum of art in Kentucky. The Speed houses ancient, classical and modern art from around the world. The 220,000-square-foot museum also features an outdoor art park and piazza, a café and cinema. Free on Sundays, thanks to Brown-Forman

 

21c Museum Hotel

Pop into the 21c Museum Hotel (Conde Nast Traveler has voted it among the top hotels in the world) on historic Main Street in the Museum Row district. Browse the world-class contemporary art on display by artists from all over the globe and snap a selfie with David (inspired by Michelangelo’s 16th century statue). Free

 

Louisville Visitor Center

Looking for a great selfie spot? The Louisville Visitor Center in downtown Louisville is just the place. You can snap a photo of the neon sign outside featuring several pronunciations of Louisville. Or, head indoors to get a pic with a life-size replica of Louisville icons, KFC founder Col. Harland Sanders or boxing legend Muhammad Ali. Free

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I hope you enjoyed this weeks blog! If you would like more information on visiting Louisville, please click the following link: Fun Awaits!

Till next time! I’m off to get myself some ice cream from Louisville Cream! 

Have you ever gone white water rafting and soon told yourself…

Well, that was my reaction two weeks ago when I was invited by the Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine Wilderness Emergency Club to go white water rafting in Tennessee.

Here is a link to the company that the club used to white water raft with:

Smoky Mountain White Water Rafting

You see, I had gone “white water rafting” in Costa Rica earlier this year with my traveling class and I thought of myself as an expert. The Costa Rica white water rafting was more of  relaxing boat ride down a river to enjoy nature and all its beautiful scenery. Sadly, that relaxation did not prepare me for what I was about to endure. So for this weeks blog, I will be sharing:

How to Survive your First White Water Experience

1. Expect to get soaked

So, pack some appropriate wear. Even though your booty probably looks amazing in that tiny bikini, better wear some gym shorts to protect your assets from the raft. It’s best if you wear some synthetic materials because natural fabrics such as cotton pull heat away from your body and you’ll get cold quickly. And, pack a pair of water shoes to protect your little piggies.

2. Leave your bling somewhere safe

All your jewellery and your cash will be much safer and drier in the car for obvious reasons. If you really need to bring something with you (medication for instance), there are waterproof bags. This will let you relax and enjoy the ride. You would be surprised what objects get lost within these rivers rapids!

3. Your skull’s not that hard, bro

If you’re taking any rapid that is Class 3 and higher, you will need and want to wear a helmet. You will get one from the rafting company, and no matter how stupid you think you look, don’t take it off. 

Side note: the different rapid classes are explained below.

 

4. Life jackets are so cool

So, you think you can swim? We’re sure you swim like Phelps, but better not risk it your first time. If you fall in, the life jacket will not only keep you on the surface but also make it easier for the guide to pull you back in.

 

5. PADDLE LIKE CRAZY!

That’s basically the one thing you need to do when rafting. If you don’t paddle, navigating the raft will be hard, so when your guide says to do it, you do it. Before your launch, you will learn a couple of commands that will not only improve your safety but also make your experience ten times more fun! If your guide feels like they can’t rely on all of you, they will skip the harder (and most exciting) rapids. Bummer! So, listen to the instructions and you’ll have the time of your life!

[The above gif is something you do NOT want to do]

6. Hold your horses

Rapids are usually classified on a scale of 1 to 6. Class 1 rapids are small with a slow current and waves. There are no special obstructions in the water and they are perfect for beginners and kids. Class 6 rapids, though, will take you on the ride of your life. You will probably scream, possibly fall out and maaaaaybe even poop your pants. It’s happened before. Not to me, but we were told some interesting stories from our guide.

7. Man overboard!

No matter how careful you are, it just happens sometimes. So if it happens to you, try to hold onto the outside safety line and someone will help you back in. If you can’t get to the line, wait for the paddle or a throw bag. If you’re not back on board in 10 seconds, assume the white water swimming position (lift your feet up and point them downstream). There’s only one rule: DON’T PANIC. But, sure, you can still curse and pray.

8. The bare necessities

Bring a change of clothes, a towel and some water. Adrenaline will make you parched!

If you need a list of recommended clothing items to take with you, you can follow this link to so some shopping:

White Water Rafting Necessities

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White water rafting is a fun and exhilarating experience perfect for adrenaline junkies. It’s also a great outdoors workout if you don’t mind getting a little wet. As long as you trust your crew and paddle like crazy, you will have a truly breathtaking adventure. And remember, it’s okay to fall out, as long as you get back in.

Here is a small collection of pictures of when I went white water rafting, please excuse my ugly face lol

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I hope you were able to learn something new from my post, and please, if you have any other suggestions or questions about white water rafting, please don’t hesitate to share that in the comment section.

It was nice writing to you all, until next time! In the meantime, look up some other white water rafting excursions OAR  relax watching this white water rafting fail:

 

This week I have the pleasure to be traveling with my Speech and Debate Team, The Growlers, to the beautiful state of California! Not only are we traveling to California, but our destination is Sana Ana! With this weeks blog, I will be sharing the top  destination spots to visit while visiting this sunny, beautiful, beach town. This isn’t your usual top destinations to go to blog, so don’t expect Disneyland to be on this list, instead, I will be sharing “local places” for visitors to enjoy!

5. Bowers Museum of Cultural Arts

Founded in 1936 by the City of Santa Ana through a bequest from Charles and Ada Bowers, the Bowers Museum is one of California’s finest and Orange County’s largest museums. In 1986, the museum closed its doors for a period of self-study. In response to community needs and input, it reopened in 1992 as a new cultural center, and expanded children’s programming in 1994 with the opening of the Kidseum. The museum also recently celebrated the grand opening of the 30,000+ square-foot Dorothy and Donald Kennedy Wing in February 2007. To achieve its mission, the Bowers offers exhibitions, lectures, art classes, travel programs, children’s art education programs, and other special community programs.

Here is a link to the museum’s webpage for more information, as well as ticket pricing: https://www.bowers.org/index.php/visit/hours-tickets

4. Discovery Cube Orange County

Hands-on science education that delights, challenges, and encourages kids? The Discovery Science Foundation has made a positive difference in thousands of lives for 35 years. The foundation achieves this goal through four core initiatives: STEM proficiency, early childhood education, healthy living, and environmental stewardship. These future-forward initiatives inspire educators, their students, and all of us committed to learning for life.

The museum’s original center in Orange County, as well as their newer Los Angeles and Newport Beach campuses, gives those seeking immersive, interactive science activities a way to jump into the learning fun. In addition to their campuses, educational outreach programs remain a major part of our mission. Bringing a host of experiences directly to learners is essential to achieving the foundation’s core initiatives. It’s a mission that also includes empowering real-world application by giving learners a chance to make a difference. This vision has made the foundation a prominent advocate for modern science education over the years. Spotlighting science as a solution and as a force for good is what the Discovery Science Foundation so successfully does.

Here is a link to the Discovery Cube’s webpage for further information on their most recent displays and information: https://oc.discoverycube.org/

3. Santa Ana Zoo

The property where the zoo sits today went through the ownership of several people during the early 1900s. After the property was foreclosed in 1929 and 1931, Joseph Edward Prentice bought the 19.23-acre site. He donated 16 acres to the city of Santa Ana in 1949 and stipulated that the zoo have at least fifty monkeys at all times. Construction of the zoo began that year, and it opened on March 8, 1952. A children’s zoo was soon built and the Flight Aviary, now known as the Jack Lynch Aviary, was completed in 1962. In 1983, the amphitheater was completed and the zoo gained AZA accreditation. The 1990s had three major events: in 1990, the Flight Aviary was upgraded and renamed the Jack Lynch Aviary; Amazon’s Edge opened in 1992; and Colors of the Amazon Aviary opened in 1996. In the 2000s, the Zoofari Express Train Ride opened in 2000, Crean Family Farm opened in 2004, and Tierra de las Pampas opened in 2010.

Here are a few of the exhibits:

Tierra De Las Pampas

In April 2010, Santa Ana Zoo opened a new exhibit, Tierra de las Pampas or “Land of the Grasses.” It is the first in a series of new exhibits. Covering 2 acres, Tierra de las Pampas houses giant anteaters in one exhibit, and greater rheas and guanacos in the larger one, with a footpath between them.

Rainforest Exhibit

The Rainforest Exhibit is a small exhibit that represents the Amazon, home to white-faced Saki monkey’s and green iguanas.

Amazon’s Edge

This exhibit, opened on September 1, 1993, replicates a section of the Brazilian rainforest. The exhibit consists of a water moat and a forested riverbank set against a cliff face, with a wooden deck for visitors to see the animals. The species on exhibit include howler monkeys, black-necked swans and crested screamers.

Colors of the Amazon Aviary

The 9,000-square-foot Colors of the Amazon Aviary opened on August 1, 1996. This walk-through aviary displays a variety of South American birds in a lushly planted habitat with meandering streams.

Crean Family Farm

Crean Family Farm opened in July 2004 and focuses on rare breeds of farm animals. The centerpiece of the complex is a two-story red barn which houses the larger species.

Ocelot Habitat and Education Center

Ocelot Habitat is home to a breeding pair of Brazilian ocelot located in 2 linked habitats. Interactive picnic tables let guests discover the special adaptations unique to ocelots.

Clouded Leopards are displayed on a color panel brochure to adopt an animal, however Clouded Leopards do not reside at the Santa Ana Zoo.

2. Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve

The Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve is an approximately 1,300 acre coastal estuary. Habitats include open water, mudflats, salt marsh, coastal dunes, seabird nesting islands, riparian, and freshwater marsh. More than 200 avian species have been identified at Bolsa Chica and the reserve is very popular with birders and photographers.

For more information, call the Bolsa Chica Interpretive Center at (714) 846-1114 or the South Coast Region San Diego office at (858) 467-4201.

Activities: wildlife viewing, hiking, and tours

Each parking lot connects to a 4-mile network of public hiking trails, including scenic overlooks. Please note that due to active oil and gas production by California Resources Corporation, a portion of the reserve is closed to public access.

An interpretive center operated by the Bolsa Chica Conservancy is located by the north lot.

Free docent-led tours are provided by three non-government organizations: Amigos de Bolsa Chica, Bolsa Chica Conservancy and Bolsa Chica Land Trust. Each parking lot features a bulletin board with information.

1. Newport Beach

Delight in all the attractions and activities Newport Beach has to offer. Whether you are looking for attractions, the piers or peninsula,  or you are looking for activities, whale watching and wine tasting,  Newport Beach has activities and attractions for everyone. The Balboa Fun Zone is one of the most well-known Newport Beach attractions. With a Ferris wheel, arcade games, and Discovery Cube’s Ocean Quest, the Fun Zone offers family fun for all ages. Millions of people every year visit the two Newport Beach piers, Balboa and Newport Pier, to walk high above the waves.

The best activities and attractions in Newport Beach are usually found in the water. Surfing, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding,  body surfing and other water sports are favorite year-round activities as the California beach destination enjoys the gorgeous Mediterranean-like weather.

Newport Beach is also an active community of walkers, runners, cyclists, and even Segway riders. With long stretches of board walks, bike routes, and trails, there are numerous paths and trails for outdoor activities.

I hope this list helps plan the beginning of your adventures in Santa Ana, California. I myself am off to enjoy the warm, beautiful weather…. until next time!

 

From Octavia Hatcher, the infamous woman who was buried alive, to the spooky second floor of Pikeville’s local Italian restaurant, Chirico’s. Join me as you are about to embark on this years Hillbilly Ghost Walking Tour!

It’s going to be spook-tacular!

If you are curious of any upcoming events, here is a link to Paranormal Adventures Event Page: https://paranormal-adventures-events.ticketleap.com

Stop #1: The Expo Center

Explanation of why/how the Expo Center is haunted:

(Summary of Youtube Video)

There used to be a hotel at the entrance of the Expo Center called The Hatcher Hotel which also had a department store connected to the hotel called the Watson Department Store. The reason that it is so infamous is because of the owners who were James and Octavia Hatcher.

James was so distraught after Octavia was buried alive that he actually preformed a séance daily or weekly trying to contact his dead wife to make sure that she was okay. Nobody knows if he succeeded and some even say that his parents and siblings might have even helped out with the séances.

James became a very strange man after his wife died. He had an air tight coffin made for himself which he had on display at the lobby in the hotel for patrons to see. He also had a lot of weird medical devices for people to view and printed strange quotes all over the walls of his home. He also purposely placed Octavia’s burial site so that he could see her gravestone every day outside his window.

Another scary thing is that someone was buried within the walls of the Expo center after having fallen into concrete while it was under construction. There have been a lot of weird activity that occurs on the bottom floor. People get locked in rooms, bathrooms, things go missing and appear later. A lot of the workers share experiences of things that occur to them: A video is shown of a recording of a moment where workers were caught late at night where music was playing… however, no sound systems connected!

 

Stop #2: The Old Court House

Summary:

This video shares about the Hatfield and McCoy Hog Trial. (Please forgive me for the background noises. (I was not aware that the tour was going to be in the middle of Hillbilly days) If you would like to know more about the feud between the Hatfield’s and McCoy’s, please check out my blog about the History of Pikeville!

But here is the scary part about the Court House: It is said that late at night, you can see a bright, glowing ball of light that flies within the top floor and within the clock tower… there is no entrance to the clock tower, so what could the bright light be? (dun dun dunnnnnnnnnn!)

Stop #3: Chirico’s Restaurant

Summary:

The reason why Mr. McCoy decided to live here he build a riverboat house and that was the only way to bring in goods into Pikeville. The weird thing was how Mr. McCoy died, after 30 years of feuding, he died by falling into a fire that he was attending to.

There have been weird happenings on the second floor above Chirico’s, which is only used for storage: footsteps can be heard as well as things being moved around and dropped onto the floor.

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Please comment below if you see anything paranormal in these photos!

Stop #4: The Story of Octavia Hatcher

In 1889, at the age of 30, James Hatcher was married in Pikeville to a young woman named Octavia Smith, the daughter of Jacob Smith, an early settler. Their life together would be tragically brief and their union would produce one son, Jacob, who was born shortly before his mother died. The baby died soon after he was born, possibly leading to the depression and illness that preceded Octavia’s own death.

The illness took a turn for the worse in April of that same year and she slipped into a coma. The doctors were unable to determine a cause for it and when she died on May 2, it was thought that she had perished from an unknown illness.

The funeral services were held and almost immediately carried out. It was an unseasonably hot spring and as Octavia was not embalmed , no was time was wasted in placing her in her grave at the Hatcher family plot. James had just suffered a terrible double tragedy – but his grief was not yet over.

Several days after Octavia’s death, several other people began suffering from the same coma-like symptoms that Octavia exhibited at the time of her death. Research conducted by Herma Shelton shows that this illness was a sort of sleeping sickness that was brought on by the bite of a certain fly. When news of this began to spread, Hatcher and members of his family (some of them doctors) began to worry that this may have been the same illness that Octavia had contracted. Their fears turned to panic as they realized that she may have been buried alive!

An emergency exhumation was conducted and Octavia’s casket was opened. They found the poor young woman in a horrific state. Apparently, the coffin had not been airtight and she had managed to survive for a few days, trapped beneath the ground. The lining on the lid of the coffin had been torn and shredded by Octavia’s bloody nails and her face had been scratched and contorted into an expression of terror. She must have awakened from her sleep to find herself trapped in the casket. Then, unable to escape, she had undoubtedly succumbed to a terrifying death!

Stop #5: Pikeville City Park

Due to the history of the Civil War camps in the exact location of Pikeville’s City Park, it is said that in the early morning a fog will appear from the river and the formation of fallen soldiers appear within the park with tents, ready for another day of battle.

Last Stop: Dill’s cemetary

unfortunately, my camera read “low battery” and would no longer turn on while I was on the cemetery. So I had to turn to my phone for pictures.

To my surprise however… as I was walking home, I turned my camera on to see if I could use the last of the battery to view some pictures… only to expect my camera to still have 1/2 a full battery left!!!

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Again, please comment below if you see anything paranormal of any of the images above. I did have somebody from the same group send me the following the image from HER camera:

I hope you enjoyed this week’s blog! If I learn of any new ghost sightings in Pikeville, I’ll keep you ghosted!

Till’ next time!

If you are still curious about ghosts, ghost hunting, and of the like, here is a video of Buzzfeed’s ghost hunting of Kentucky’s most haunted place: The Waverly Hills Hospital. Watch if you dare…

Native Americans, American Civil War, a Family Feud, and Coal Expeditions – this helps reveal a little about the beautiful history that surrounds Pikeville, Ky. Thanks to Big Sandy’s Heritage Center Museum in downtown Pikeville, I had the amazing opportunity to learn about Pikeville’s valuable history and some unknown fun facts about Kentucky’s eastern city.

If you have not visited Big Sandy’s Heritage Center Museum, the following is an informational link to help you plan your visit:

https://bigsandyheritage.com/contact-us

Early History

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Did you know?:

Daniel Boone was an American pioneer, explorer, woodsman, and frontiersman whose exploits made him one of the first folk heroes of the United States. His first steps into Kentucky were through the gap now known as The Breaks and down the Russell Fork River into what is now modern-day Elkhorn City and then through Pike County into Floyd County. After reading the accounts of Thomas Walker, he came to spend the winter in Kentucky, hunting, and trapping for furs. Daniel Boone had to overcome many extreme obstacles while he was hunting and exploring the area; from dangerous animals to unfriendly Native Americans, who killed his son and captured him and his brother.

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Civil War

Kentucky began as a neutral state caught between the Union states  to its North and the Confederate states to its South and East. This neutrality did not last long as they were quickly drawn into the turmoil of war.  In the Big Sandy Valley men served  2 to 1 for the Union cause. 

When court adjourned Dec 18, 1861, Civil authority broke down in our remote mountains.  The region  was left void of any law enforcement of any kind except for when either army came through. Nowhere else in the country is it like this except for the isolated mountains on the border. During this three and a half years of lawlessness the people of the Big Sandy Valley were forced to take the law in to their own hands to protect their families. 

Tensions among neighbors remained very high after the war. Small personal fights often led to feuds involving members of opposing sides that formed along Civil War alliances.

It was an interesting and eye-opening experience getting to read artifacts, newspaper articles, family diaries, and physical objects about the civil war. Coming from San Diego, the reality of the civil war never truly seemed real to me, however, after reading various sources and seeing physical artifacts, this museum has changed my views of what it might have been like during the civil war. 

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Did you know?: 

President James A. Garfield was sworn in as general by Square Charles of Pike County in 1862 at what is now known as Pikeville City Park!

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The Hatfield’s & the McCoy’s: The Feud we all know too much about… or do we?

How did it all begin?

According to Big Sandy Heritage Center Museum, there are three events that began this Family Feud: a murder, forbidden love, and a trial.

Pikeville asked and Pikeville received! A new breakfast & brunch restaurant has opened up its doors in the downtown Pikeville area and I am here to give you an in-depth look into the new hip and upcoming restaurant:

Southern Biscuit and Grill on 2nd Street 😋

Meet the Owners: Gary & Amy

Gary and Amy are Pikeville natives who originally owned Downtown Diner & Desserts and wanted to move their restaurant into the heart of downtown. Luckily for them, Pikeville’s Main Street Program partnered with Gary and Amy to open an all day breakfast restaurant for Pikeville’s locals and visitors.

Thanks to the Main Street Program, Gary and Amy were able to receive help for decor and the design for the restaurant’s theme. The Main Street Program also helped pick out some of the food specials that are present on the menu to give it a nice Pikeville rustic theme.

Here is a link to Pikeville’s Main Street Program’s page if you would like to look more information about their program and what new projects they have in store:

https://www.pikevillemainstreet.com

Why Biscuits?

The Pikeville Main Street Program had presented a survey earlier this year, and the people had requested an all day breakfast restaurant and that is how Southern Biscuits and Grill came to be!

Gary and Amy gathered their ideas to build a whole new menu, however, do not fret! If you enjoyed eating at Downtown Diner & Desserts, Gary and Amy made sure to keep their top five selling items on their new menu (this also goes for their daily specials 😉).

Here is a picture of Southern Biscuit & Grill’s menu:

** Both delicious and affordable! Especially if you have that college student budget **

What makes Southern Biscuits so happy?

Whether you want breakfast, brunch, lunch, or linner, this is your place to come and enjoy time with family, friends, classmates, co-workers, and anyone in between.

“We currently have a social corner that will soon be getting free wi-fi for students to just come in and enjoy a study session here in the heart of downtown while enjoying a delicious meal,” Gary said.

All the food made at Southern Biscuits and Grill is all homemade and freshly cooked every morning and everyday.

All biscuits and burgers are all 1/2 a pound, so you better come here with an appetite. Another Southern Biscuit and Grill specialty is their homemade potato chips – if this doesn’t make you want to stop by and eat here, I don’t know what else will.

Currently, the busiest times right now are between the hours of 11 am – 1 pm and most especially, all day Saturday. Although Southern Biscuits and Grill is reaching its third week after opening its doors, it looks as if the people of Pikeville are taking advantage of their new breakfast spot.

Future Plans already in Progress…

“What we would really like to see is to have a nightlife present here at Southern Biscuit and Grill,” said Gary and Amy.

Gary and Amy are currently looking into signing with the Orange Card program so that UPIKE, KYCO, and KYCOM students can receive a discount on their total purchase.

Gary and Amy are also currently looking for staff, so if you are looking for a job, look no further!

Restaurant Rating by yours truly:

Staff: Staff was super friendly and kind! Being from outside the state, being called “honey” and “sweetheart” always makes me smile.

Food: Granted, I only had the honey biscuits (which were amazing!!), but from staring at other plates, these biscuits are MASSIVE! You definitely get your money’s worth here at Southern Biscuits and Grill.

Location: Being in the heart of downtown definitely has its advantages. However, the only concern would be parking. Parking has always been in issue for downtown Pikeville, but I hope that doesn’t stop you from trying out this new restaurant.

If you would like more information, here is a link to Southern Biscuits & Grill’s Yelp page: https://www.yelp.com/biz/southern-biscuit-and-grill-pikeville

If you have any other further questions or would like to add any comments about Southern Biscuit and Grill please don’t hesitate to ask or write!

Thank you and I hope you can tag along in the many adventures of Clouds!

Hasta la Biscuit!