http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-lazarus-20111206,0,1228881.column?page=1
In a far more social article, Lazarus addresses the popularity of the many new kinds of gadgets that have found their way into numerous households in recent years. Lazarus talks about the many ways the gadgets can function, for families, children, or adults. They serve as tools and resources to new worlds of applications, games, and other productive outlets. Lazarus, however, plans not to invest his money this season on the new technologies we're so infatuated with. Lazarus explains many of the very tempting prospects he's considered, but also explains why it isn't the time to invest. He is particularly interested in the gadgets for portable reading. However, after experimenting with a few of the items on the market, he is unsatisfied. The Kindle, he believes, lacks powered processing. On the other hand, the Nook is not as versatile and does't have the same access to the many applications offered in the iPad and the Kindle. Lazarus plans to wait until something more ideal is developed, he believes it shouldn't have all of the unnecessary features that drive up the prices of the iPad, but will combine the positive elements of the Kindle and the Nook. Until then, Lazarus believes that the tablet craze just isn't worth the hype.
Monday, December 19, 2011
Columnists Ahoy 2
http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-lazarus-20111202,0,966733.column
David Lazarus addresses a very interesting new policy created by Chase for credit card users. The new policy changes the traditional Credit Card limit to an "access line." This line increases the availability of money to the credit card user and features a more "adjustable" limit. Lazarus' perspective on the policy is that its a tool to manipulate the credit card users. As the economic conditions take higher and higher tolls on consumers, they become more cautious in their spending. With so many more people reigning in their debt, the banks are taking a hit. Lazarus believes that this new "access line" is Chase's way of trying to make spending more "attractive" to consumers. By removing some of the penalties that come with overcharging, people are more likely to throw themselves further into debt. Although Chase's spokesperson, Paul Hartwick, denies the claims and states that this new policy is not intended to be an incentive for consumers to come into more debt, but merely to encourage consumers to bank with Chase, Lazarus asserts that if that were true than there were other, more logical, ways to do that, such as lowering interest rates.
Lazarus outlines his argument by first putting the policy in an economic context. He explains that with the constant economic strains on consumers, they have "become savvier at managing their money." Then, Lazarus clearly states his opinion that banks are "making it easier for people to run up balances on their credit cards." Because Lazarus began by explaining the pressures put on the banks to compensate for the losses due to the consumer's digging themselves out of debt, his assessment seems fairly logical. Lazarus continues to develop his point by explaining the policy and the trouble it can cause spenders, saying that people are more willing to overspend because "a credit access line probably would allow you to do so without any difficulty or penalty." By using two sources in his opinion, David Robertson and Paul Hartwick, each supporting either side of the argument, Lazarus' argument gains credibility. Lazarus addressed Chase's obsequious intentions by quoting Hartwick's claim that, "'We simply want customers to choose to do more of their spending with us'," and then refuted his argument claiming that "If that were the case, though, the bank could have offered other incentives, such as lower interest rates.''
David Lazarus addresses a very interesting new policy created by Chase for credit card users. The new policy changes the traditional Credit Card limit to an "access line." This line increases the availability of money to the credit card user and features a more "adjustable" limit. Lazarus' perspective on the policy is that its a tool to manipulate the credit card users. As the economic conditions take higher and higher tolls on consumers, they become more cautious in their spending. With so many more people reigning in their debt, the banks are taking a hit. Lazarus believes that this new "access line" is Chase's way of trying to make spending more "attractive" to consumers. By removing some of the penalties that come with overcharging, people are more likely to throw themselves further into debt. Although Chase's spokesperson, Paul Hartwick, denies the claims and states that this new policy is not intended to be an incentive for consumers to come into more debt, but merely to encourage consumers to bank with Chase, Lazarus asserts that if that were true than there were other, more logical, ways to do that, such as lowering interest rates.
Lazarus outlines his argument by first putting the policy in an economic context. He explains that with the constant economic strains on consumers, they have "become savvier at managing their money." Then, Lazarus clearly states his opinion that banks are "making it easier for people to run up balances on their credit cards." Because Lazarus began by explaining the pressures put on the banks to compensate for the losses due to the consumer's digging themselves out of debt, his assessment seems fairly logical. Lazarus continues to develop his point by explaining the policy and the trouble it can cause spenders, saying that people are more willing to overspend because "a credit access line probably would allow you to do so without any difficulty or penalty." By using two sources in his opinion, David Robertson and Paul Hartwick, each supporting either side of the argument, Lazarus' argument gains credibility. Lazarus addressed Chase's obsequious intentions by quoting Hartwick's claim that, "'We simply want customers to choose to do more of their spending with us'," and then refuted his argument claiming that "If that were the case, though, the bank could have offered other incentives, such as lower interest rates.''
Columnists Ahoy 1
http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-lazarus-20111125,0,1228881.column?page=1
In this article, David Lazarus explains the importance of giving during this time of year. He discusses the growing need for contributions at aid organizations for those who cannot afford basic commodities. Lazarus outlines that the need is even greater now than it has been in the past due to the economic crisis in the country today. With more people being unemployed or underemployed, there are more people who find it difficult to purchase basic needs for their families. Not only is the demand for these commodities and charities increasing, but the supply is substantially less than it has been in years passed. Economic strains have caused fewer people to donate, and the department of food and agriculture has cut a significant portion of their subsidies to these charity groups.
Lazarus' purpose is made clear in the development of his argument towards donation to charity. He uses specific statistics to reinforce the statements he makes about why philanthropy is more important now than ever before. For example, Lazarus states, "A record 330,000 residents are being served each month at the 600 pantries supplied by the L.A. food bank, up 73% from the start of the recession in 2008." These statistics support his reasoning, and he follows them with appeals to logic. Lazarus explains the amount of food generated from holiday parties and how easily the leftover food can be donated, "with so many businesses holding holiday parties, is that leftover prepared meals can be donated to charity."
In this article, David Lazarus explains the importance of giving during this time of year. He discusses the growing need for contributions at aid organizations for those who cannot afford basic commodities. Lazarus outlines that the need is even greater now than it has been in the past due to the economic crisis in the country today. With more people being unemployed or underemployed, there are more people who find it difficult to purchase basic needs for their families. Not only is the demand for these commodities and charities increasing, but the supply is substantially less than it has been in years passed. Economic strains have caused fewer people to donate, and the department of food and agriculture has cut a significant portion of their subsidies to these charity groups.
Lazarus' purpose is made clear in the development of his argument towards donation to charity. He uses specific statistics to reinforce the statements he makes about why philanthropy is more important now than ever before. For example, Lazarus states, "A record 330,000 residents are being served each month at the 600 pantries supplied by the L.A. food bank, up 73% from the start of the recession in 2008." These statistics support his reasoning, and he follows them with appeals to logic. Lazarus explains the amount of food generated from holiday parties and how easily the leftover food can be donated, "with so many businesses holding holiday parties, is that leftover prepared meals can be donated to charity."
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Monday #6
http://townhall.com/columnists/patbuchanan/2011/10/21/is_america_disenigrating
In this article, Pat Buchanan discusses a topic very sensitive to us as Americans. Buchanan argues that the framework of America is beginning to rust and that the country as we know it is becoming unstable. Buchanan compares the society of America in the present and the society of America in the past. The differences in the country are unarguable, and Buchanan claims that a disintegration of America as we know it is imminent. What used to be a country united under common morality, religion, and race is dividing irreparably. Buchanan argues that things that would have normally been unanimously frowned upon, such as abortion and homosexuality, are now debated. Buchanan also gives statistical evidence that the number of bilingual households and programming is dramatically increasing. Buchanan believes that these distinctions will only reinforce racial divisions in American society, raising yet another challenge to the unity of the nation. Buchanan then addresses his opposition, who claim that the constitution is a strong enough foothold politically and socially to keep America in tact. In response, Buchanan raises a series of controversial amendments that are constantly being debated today, such as the second amendment in favor of the right to have concealed weapons.
In this article, Pat Buchanan discusses a topic very sensitive to us as Americans. Buchanan argues that the framework of America is beginning to rust and that the country as we know it is becoming unstable. Buchanan compares the society of America in the present and the society of America in the past. The differences in the country are unarguable, and Buchanan claims that a disintegration of America as we know it is imminent. What used to be a country united under common morality, religion, and race is dividing irreparably. Buchanan argues that things that would have normally been unanimously frowned upon, such as abortion and homosexuality, are now debated. Buchanan also gives statistical evidence that the number of bilingual households and programming is dramatically increasing. Buchanan believes that these distinctions will only reinforce racial divisions in American society, raising yet another challenge to the unity of the nation. Buchanan then addresses his opposition, who claim that the constitution is a strong enough foothold politically and socially to keep America in tact. In response, Buchanan raises a series of controversial amendments that are constantly being debated today, such as the second amendment in favor of the right to have concealed weapons.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Monday #5
http://townhall.com/columnists/patbuchanan/2011/10/11/the_religion_card_is_turned_face_up/page/2
Pat Buchanan posted another update on his column, discussing the religious tension between Romney, Perry, and Bennett and how religious affiliation can help or harm a political career. When Pastor Jeffress endorsed Perry publicly, he followed his endorsement with comparing Mormonism to a cult and from then on a whirlwind of political fire came about. Buchanan takes the believes that Romney's faith is what will surely put him behind in the polls despite the increasing popularity of Mormonism in America. Because Romney's religious affiliations make him an easy target in the debates, claims Buchanan, saying, "Mitt is likely to replace Perry as the "pinata" in the debates." Buchanan also believes that Romney has been trying to evade the question of faith in order to lessen the damage he would take in the polls. However, religion is a common factor in debates, and Buchanan believes that Romney's rivals are sure to use it against him.
Pat Buchanan posted another update on his column, discussing the religious tension between Romney, Perry, and Bennett and how religious affiliation can help or harm a political career. When Pastor Jeffress endorsed Perry publicly, he followed his endorsement with comparing Mormonism to a cult and from then on a whirlwind of political fire came about. Buchanan takes the believes that Romney's faith is what will surely put him behind in the polls despite the increasing popularity of Mormonism in America. Because Romney's religious affiliations make him an easy target in the debates, claims Buchanan, saying, "Mitt is likely to replace Perry as the "pinata" in the debates." Buchanan also believes that Romney has been trying to evade the question of faith in order to lessen the damage he would take in the polls. However, religion is a common factor in debates, and Buchanan believes that Romney's rivals are sure to use it against him.
Monday #4
http://townhall.com/columnists/patbuchanan/2011/09/30/can_a_geriatric_germany_save_europe
In this article, Pat Buchanan argues whether or not the European Union will be able to survive the economic deficit that they face. He begins by outlining a plan to be employed by the European Nations to try to recover the European Nation Banks. The plan he addresses identifies Germany as the leading nation to recover the Euro. However, Buchanan's major point in his article is that the European Union is irreparably going into failure due to his population projections over the next few decades. As time goes on, Germany, who is expected to be the stronghold of the European Union, will be suffering substantial population losses as the population ages and the following generation is not large enough to overcome the foreign deficit as well as their own internal social policies, including social security and welfare. Along with Germany's population, both Greeks and Italians are facing the same undesirable fate. The newer generations are too insignificant to be able to compensate for the debt, and the lack of youth to join the work force causes more than just the population levels, but the national productivity levels to plummet. With the youth decreasing and the elderly increasing, the debt will only continue to grow, according to Buchanan. He concludes his article with the quote "This is the way the world ends/Not with a bang, but a whimper."
In this article, Pat Buchanan argues whether or not the European Union will be able to survive the economic deficit that they face. He begins by outlining a plan to be employed by the European Nations to try to recover the European Nation Banks. The plan he addresses identifies Germany as the leading nation to recover the Euro. However, Buchanan's major point in his article is that the European Union is irreparably going into failure due to his population projections over the next few decades. As time goes on, Germany, who is expected to be the stronghold of the European Union, will be suffering substantial population losses as the population ages and the following generation is not large enough to overcome the foreign deficit as well as their own internal social policies, including social security and welfare. Along with Germany's population, both Greeks and Italians are facing the same undesirable fate. The newer generations are too insignificant to be able to compensate for the debt, and the lack of youth to join the work force causes more than just the population levels, but the national productivity levels to plummet. With the youth decreasing and the elderly increasing, the debt will only continue to grow, according to Buchanan. He concludes his article with the quote "This is the way the world ends/Not with a bang, but a whimper."
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Monday #3
http://www.ibtimes.com/articles/219451/20110925/oktoberfest-2011-facts.htm
The photo on the link above is of people initiating the celebration in Munich, Germany for the annual Oktober fest! The image presents a classic representation of the festival, one that is joyous and exciting for all!
The mood of the photograph is displayed in its coloring. The bright colors and heavy saturation make the photo seem more exciting and festive. Also, the people in the photograph all smile dramatically, happy to be celebrating in Germany, toasting their beers in celebration! They are all dressed in mock- traditional German clothing to represent the historical aspect of the well known festival, but the modern changes add a costume- like dynamic that make the photo seem almost goofy and child like. Another thing to note in the image is its background. Though the photograph leaves the background out of focus, the viewer can clearly make out a mass of people behind those cheersing in the foreground. This adds a sense of community to the image- that all are welcomed to this fun atmosphere to enjoy the beer, the history, and the culture of Germany's Oktoberfest!
The photo on the link above is of people initiating the celebration in Munich, Germany for the annual Oktober fest! The image presents a classic representation of the festival, one that is joyous and exciting for all!
The mood of the photograph is displayed in its coloring. The bright colors and heavy saturation make the photo seem more exciting and festive. Also, the people in the photograph all smile dramatically, happy to be celebrating in Germany, toasting their beers in celebration! They are all dressed in mock- traditional German clothing to represent the historical aspect of the well known festival, but the modern changes add a costume- like dynamic that make the photo seem almost goofy and child like. Another thing to note in the image is its background. Though the photograph leaves the background out of focus, the viewer can clearly make out a mass of people behind those cheersing in the foreground. This adds a sense of community to the image- that all are welcomed to this fun atmosphere to enjoy the beer, the history, and the culture of Germany's Oktoberfest!
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Monday #1
http://www.timesunion.com/living/article/Fashion-world-honors-Sept-11-as-shows-go-on-2165583.php
On the runway on September 11, designers released pieces from their spring 2012 collections. The show did not go on without paying respects to the tragic events of September 11th just a decade ago. The show stopped twice for moments of silence to commemorate both of the twin towers. The designers noted strong patriotic influenced in their collections also to honor the events. Donna Karan, one of the feature designers of the show chose a yellow taxi for the backdrop of her runway to symbolize New York City. She also featured garments that used red and navy striping to add to the American pride of the show. Other designers, such as Victoria Beckham, also featured navy as a primary color to the 2012 color palette. Beckham also moved away from the loose silhouettes she had featured last season to become more in touch with her original designs- geometric lines and flattering angles. Her new line featured tight bodices, asymmetrical design, and uniquely flattering hem and necklines. On the other hand, designer Carmen Marc Valvo, invoked a more free and loose feeling with his spring 2012 garments. He introduced his line with a poem, and continued the show with his models featuring his eyeware. His line was noted for its sophistication, but also for its incredible long dresses. Taking another direction, Monique Lhuillier differentiated herself with a very sporty, but feminine line. Lhuillier maintained a similar color palette though, featuring vibrant yellows paired with navy.
On the runway on September 11, designers released pieces from their spring 2012 collections. The show did not go on without paying respects to the tragic events of September 11th just a decade ago. The show stopped twice for moments of silence to commemorate both of the twin towers. The designers noted strong patriotic influenced in their collections also to honor the events. Donna Karan, one of the feature designers of the show chose a yellow taxi for the backdrop of her runway to symbolize New York City. She also featured garments that used red and navy striping to add to the American pride of the show. Other designers, such as Victoria Beckham, also featured navy as a primary color to the 2012 color palette. Beckham also moved away from the loose silhouettes she had featured last season to become more in touch with her original designs- geometric lines and flattering angles. Her new line featured tight bodices, asymmetrical design, and uniquely flattering hem and necklines. On the other hand, designer Carmen Marc Valvo, invoked a more free and loose feeling with his spring 2012 garments. He introduced his line with a poem, and continued the show with his models featuring his eyeware. His line was noted for its sophistication, but also for its incredible long dresses. Taking another direction, Monique Lhuillier differentiated herself with a very sporty, but feminine line. Lhuillier maintained a similar color palette though, featuring vibrant yellows paired with navy.
Monday #2
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/09/17/fashion/calvin-klein-lwren-scott-marc-jacobs-ny-fashion-week.html?_r=1&ref=fashion
Cathy Horyn wrote about her experience at the end of New York's fashion week, reviewing a few of the notable designers in the show. As for the entirety of the show, Horyn commented that there were many repetitive styles such as the color blocking, primary colors, and short, edgy hair cuts.
Horyn then began to describe specific designers, noting Marc Jacobs heavy use of synthetic and glossy textures. Overall, Horyn believed his line was a disappointment in comparison to his previous textured collections, saying that it "wasn't all that interesting or humorous."
Next in line for review was L'wren Scott, whose collection was surprising and approved by Horyn. Scott is most well known for her long and edgy dresses that seem very dominating and powerful, Horyn describes them as her "siren and headmistress dresses." However, this collection showed more variety including pencil skirts and full sleeved chiffon blouses. The color palette Scott used was relatively neutral, and Horyn commented that it was a "welcomed break from the giddy colors on the runways."
Another designer that received Horyn's kudos was Francisco Costa who designed for Calvin Klein. Similar to L'Wren Scott, Costa's palette broke the gaudy primary color trend in the show, favoring neutrals. Horyn also acknowledges the shapes Costa uses in the garments as "simple" and "contemporary". His bra-like definition in the dresses Horyn says offers "a silhouette that looked different and fresh" and also "a legitimate solution to nakedness."
Cathy Horyn wrote about her experience at the end of New York's fashion week, reviewing a few of the notable designers in the show. As for the entirety of the show, Horyn commented that there were many repetitive styles such as the color blocking, primary colors, and short, edgy hair cuts.
Horyn then began to describe specific designers, noting Marc Jacobs heavy use of synthetic and glossy textures. Overall, Horyn believed his line was a disappointment in comparison to his previous textured collections, saying that it "wasn't all that interesting or humorous."
Next in line for review was L'wren Scott, whose collection was surprising and approved by Horyn. Scott is most well known for her long and edgy dresses that seem very dominating and powerful, Horyn describes them as her "siren and headmistress dresses." However, this collection showed more variety including pencil skirts and full sleeved chiffon blouses. The color palette Scott used was relatively neutral, and Horyn commented that it was a "welcomed break from the giddy colors on the runways."
Another designer that received Horyn's kudos was Francisco Costa who designed for Calvin Klein. Similar to L'Wren Scott, Costa's palette broke the gaudy primary color trend in the show, favoring neutrals. Horyn also acknowledges the shapes Costa uses in the garments as "simple" and "contemporary". His bra-like definition in the dresses Horyn says offers "a silhouette that looked different and fresh" and also "a legitimate solution to nakedness."
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