Extra Credit Response to William Crawford's Unit IIII Blog

William,
First of all, both of your blog choices are superior. Honestly, I was unfamiliar with either one, but now that I am, I feel better informed on a variety of topics.

http://johnmaxwellonleadership.com/, a blog by John Maxwell, really caught my attention. Maxwell's speaking and writing abilities are very motivational. I enjoyed reading quite a few his recent entries. One entry specifically remain in my thoughtouts; "The Power of Words on a Page". This entry immediately caught my eye because it made reference to Walt Whitman, and after that I was sold. Maxwell seems to offer a wealth of knowledge that he channels into mentoring motivation. I could see how he could orally prompt someone to change their lifestyle and life plan.

John Maxwell's insights are intriguing and can invite and keep the readers attention. I have now subscribed to his blog, and I hope to gain some of the insight that you have from his leadership abilities.

Your reviews were great. Thanks so much for introducing me to John Maxwell. Great Job!!

Extra Credit Response to Lowell Harris's Blog

Lowell,
I am quite opposite in that I have found a few chosen blogs, and I follow them regularly. I do agree though, that it is very time consuming to search and follow blogs. It is always easier to find the specifics that your are looking for and stay with them for a busy life's sake.

I went to http://thebridgetosomewhere.com and previewed the site. It was a very personal blog, but intense and thought provoking. The blogger template isn't very eye catching, so initially I probably wouldn't have read that far into the site, but I am glad that I did.

I really appreciated the blog entries and some of the ideas that they proposed. They are informative and peaceful. The most eye catching, was the entry of the baby sea turtles. I can honestly say that I have never personally experienced seeing them close up and the picture in the entry was great.

I completely agree with your review of the blog. The entries offer a different thought process and push the reader to explore from within. Thanks for introducing me to such a simple, but yet compelling blog. Great review!

Extra Credit Response to Allison Stearman's Post

Allison,
This blog is so heartfelt, and emotionally compelling. As a father I understand that connection with your child, and I can't imagine the tumultuous roller coaster that this family has been on.

I went to the site, and I am now a follower. I actually sat for almost two hours and read over all the entries. It is a beautiful blog that depicts the survival of something so special, human life.Maxwell is a trooper and so are his parents. I sympathize with the family because of the harrowing emotions they must have felt and are still feeling.

I think that this blog has served two very important purposes. The first being to collectively keep family and friends abreast of the constant strides that Maxwell is making. The second is simply the joy of parenthood. Although Maxwell's parents are joyous of his triumphs, this blog allows them to do what all other parents do, celebrate their child's firsts' of everything. Although Maxwell's health provided a struggle, this blog has allowed his parents to celebrate his firsts of many things, that we as parents of our children earmark.

This was a great entry and I want to thank you for giving me a reason to be thankful, just by visiting this blog.

Response to Monique Talley's Final Blog Entry

Monique,
I just finished looking over your followed blog, and I have to admit that I rather liked the content. I will be the first to say that my religious beliefs are stagnant, and although I do believe in God, I have chose to keep my thoughts on God to myself.

With that said, http:////sharonjaynes.com/blog is definitely focused toward women and their commitment to the bible, and a firm relationship with God. However I did find some interesting connotation's that were "man friendly". I apologize for trying to be stereotypical; I hope you understand what I am implying by "man friendly".

One entry in particular caught my eye about a family vacation, and a view of Alcatraz. The blogger comments about this trip and the transition of a prisoner challenged and changed. The bible verse of “You shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:32 NA SB), was a perfect testament of her discovery in this prisoner.

After reading your post and visiting the blog, I was surprised at the quality of this blog and its content. While it is focused to guide a woman's life with God, I thought that it offered a wealth of well written views and perceptions. I really enjoyed the blog. Great job with your choice and I really enjoyed reading your review.

Unit IIII Blog Entry, Personal Interest Blog

To be quite honest, I subscribe through RSS feeds to a variety of different blogs. While being deployed often, it is rather difficult to keep up with the world. As the media is constantly reporting new stories, I am laboring away inside a large floating piece of metal. Blogs are my salvation. They keep me abreast of the ever changing world. A blog allows me to pick and choose my content, based on my own personal interests. It is almost like cable television; I choose the channels that appeal personally to me. Although I am well aware of blogger biases, that is what makes the reading so intense. A blog allows me to view both the story and the opinion that the blogger wants to express.

After giving much thought on my personal favorite blog, I decided to review, The Yankee Sage. This blog is authored by retired Navy Commander, Chris van Avery. Although I wouldn't specifically cite the author as literally aggressive, his comments and thoughts on integral news are mild, and he is efficient at covering what matters to me.

Mr. van Avery is devoted to his Christian beliefs, and really seems to be a family focused man. These integral pieces of his character are employed through his literary style and blog topic coverage. The Yankee Saga, offers a little bit of everything, while focused on the key elements of government, military, and Christian beliefs. He covers important military headlines with both flair and flop. van Avery blogs about everything military. His focus is on all branches and government, and how the world is affected and defected by them.

I enjoy reading his posts because he comes from the "old Navy" ,and is blogging about the transitions into the "new Navy". Mr. van Avery's blog attempts to encompass both the old and new military styles of leadership, politicking, and patriotism.


I began reading this blog when I was assigned to recruiting duty. His journals on recruiting, in all branches, encouraged my success, by relating his opinions on the qualities that a new sailor would possess. Although very opinionated on these qualities, he made a valid point within a question. "When you are recruiting these new sailors, consider what it would be to work next to them, or mentor them ( 2010)?" I tried to use this as a guideline to help mentor the new recruits to jobs and fields that they would excel in, while being the best sailor that they could be. It is through this blog that I could identify with a very demanding job in the United States Navy.

The blog itself is somewhat eye catching. Personally I preferred the original template, which was a pen and ink design, depicting the oceans and early style battleships. Now the template has transitioned to a scenic view of the country side ,with the roofs of old cottages just peaking out. While I don't think that this template specifically encompasses the blog, it definitely defines the transition that the author has made from nautical company to family contentment.

This blogs aesthetics aren't the reason that I am drawn to Chris van Averys' bias and whit. The template is rather bland, but the organization and easy accessibility to specific posts are superb. Using specific keywords and labels, has allowed me to be my own biased follower. I can read what I choose to read on specific material, without having to skim through something that may not interest me. I am a focused person, and I like to make use of all of my time. The Yankee Sage, allows me to pick out the blog entries that appeal to me, without weeding through excessive comments and personally unrelated subject material.

One of the other most important and rarely seen widgets on this blog is a daily bible verse. I will be blunt and say that my religious practices are rudimentary. But I try to visit this blog daily, just for the Bible Verse of the Day. This little bit of encouragement isn't spattered all over the page, but is visible on the home spot and always attracts my attention.


The Yankee Sage, is a blog of personal interest. While it does give credence to military ideals and agendas, it also offers its followers references and interesting opinions. Chris van Avery has done a fine job of becoming an astute blogger, covering controversial topics with minimum bias, and paving the way for slight influence through his literary writings.


van Avery, Chris. (2010). Christian, Husband, Father, and American. The Yankee Sage.

Retrieved on July 28, 2010, from http://www.yankeesage.us/

Extra Credit Response to Dayna Clark Unit III

Dayna,
The emotional response that you have personally elicited to this book, alone, conveys its appeals. I will definitely consider purchasing it.
As I read through the scenario, it seems that there are a few dystopias going on as well, from just reading your blog. Obviously the utopian options allow for the creation of their perfect individual lives. When I make reference to multiple dystopias, I feel like I am seeing one in both the unnatural society, as well as having to choose death as the last option of choice, when no other fits your needs as an individual.

How strange to actually force a society to love and care for a child, because of their choice, when it should be automatic and not choice interpreted. Anyway I am probably reading way into this and now I definitely need the book, my curiosity is piqued. Great Job, this was a great choice for appeal.

Extra Credit Response to Lowell Harris Unit III

Lowell,
This is a great pick, and obviously covers all the appeals in a wide array. Saving Private Ryan, is definitely one of my personal favorite movies. The only thing that I feel I might disagree with, would be that, a perfect utopia of war could even exist with all the leader's having Captain Miller's leadership, and moral qualities. The problem with that would be, that there wouldn't be a war. His leadership qualities, and strong affirmations of justice, would end whatever conflict could possibly arise, and therefore the perfect war would be neither lost, nor won, just non-existent. I completely agree with the innate skills that Captain Miller has to offer, but in order for utopia and dystopia to conjoin, I think we need to remove the element of perfection. Captain Miller is the perfect leader, perfect soldier, and to be quite honest it is very hard to see his flaws. He is almost super-human. Just thoughts!!! Great Blog!

Extra Credit Reponse to Allison Stearman Unit III Blog

Allison,
As we are both doing the same question, it is a little bit harder to comment on your post!:) I agree with your pathos appeal of reasoning. The pathos appeal in this story is everywhere, from the family as your referenced, to the lone house and even the family dog. As you have pointed out, with the silhouettes of the family, Bradbury appeals to our emotions, but I almost even feel a sadness for the house who must feign ignorance at the loss of its creators.

This short story has all the specifications of a perfect utopia. Society strives for perfection even though it seemingly isn't possible. Obviously this perfection, undisturbed, proffers the utopia. Nuclear war, loss and even a fire, play the hero's of dystopias in the story.

I also see the logos appeal as well within this short story. As you talked about the time stamp in you post, I feel that the logos appeal, exists in that time stamp. Logically the time setting continues through each and every heading and offers a this appeal. Logical interpretations of reasoning are subsequent throughout this short story, which seems to give it a realistic avenue, meaning that it could really happen. Great Blog!

Response to Monique Talley Unit III Blog

Monique,
I was really intrigued by your rhetorical appeal of your advertisement. I agree, that it is true, that advertising appeals to those who strive to be someone else or who want to emulate their favorite celebrities. It seems that society as a whole is looking for that extra something to bring on a strong sense of appeal and status. While the advertisement does play on ethos, announcing its creditably while using an actor to sell the product, I also see the pathos in your advertisement. Sexuality is an emotional appeal that is very apparent in the Avon advertisement. Patrick Dempsey seems be an iconic sex symbol and Avon is using his status to sell their product. I suppose that women would want to buy this for their husbands, in hopes of their husbands smelling like Patrick Dempsey. Or maybe just the idea of Patrick Dempsey in general, it is almost fantasy like. Honestly I don't know that many men that patronize Avon, other than my father. He brought their products with fervor, and swore by them, because he felt they offered a variety of appeals. Therefore Avon advertising is doing their job, selling a product with different aspects of appeals. Very cool analysis. Good Job!

Unit III Rhetorical Writing Response

Ray Bradbury's short story, "There will come soft rains", has an exceptional rhetoric appeal of both pathos and ethos. Penned in the 1950's, its author's thought processes are the fear induced dangers of the era; the Cold War. This short story envelopes its readers with images of mass destruction; which in turn counter illicit feelings of despair and bereft sadness.

After reviewing this short story many times, and I do mean many, I was surprised at how many different conflicts were present. Each aspect of the story represented an emotion or view in which to bring the reader in.

Bradbury brings in his readers utilizing pathos, or the appeal of emotion, with the autonomy of the house. The robotic house is reliant upon humans, but yet still maintains its functions, even in the onset of mass societal destruction. Although the house is supposedly emotionless, the reader can feel its need for existence and perfection. Without routine, it too would disappear with all its inner workings.

As the reader is introduced to the house, it starts the days as any other, repeating the date and its location; "August 4, 2026, Allendale, California". This thrice noted intro implies the need for normalcy and continuation. As the house brings in the reader, it almost takes on a humanistic entity, moving forward through the daily routine of breakfast and sending the owner off to work, unaware of the current tragedy. As the short story evolves, its emotional appeal of pathos indulges the reader's fear by bringing in an entity that humans can relate to, the family dog. Although the house recognizes the entity of the dog, it is technologically blind to the radiation poisoning that the dog has succumbed to. With no emotion,the house cleans up the remains of the dying dog, as if it was only a dust bunny, sending it to the incinerator to be disposed of.

Ethos, the second appeal in this short story, brings a sound credibility to Bradbury himself. His personnel fears combined with the onset of living during the Cold War, gives the short story an edge of credibility. Bradbury conveys to the readers the reality of what the end could bring without an intervention.The title that Bradbury chose, "There will be soft rain", implies the quiet, creeping onset of a nuclear disaster, just as that of a soft comforting rain blowing in unannounced, unchanging. Bradbury brings to the story the reality that yes this is a possibility, if we as society,aren't careful. During the Cold War, society feared the unknown and Bradbury brought society the unknown, creating a vision of what would happen to their "perfect life". "There will be soft rain", has the tenure of an author's credibility. Bradbury's own personal fear of a nuclear war offers the authenticity of his resolve.

The utopia of "There will be soft rain", represents the idyllic society of automated houses, perfect afternoons of playing cards, and evenings spent with cigars. Every aspect of this Utopian world is systamatically organized, from the robotic house to the perfect family. A visual of what a perfect life is, unchallenged in every way. As Bradbury picturesquely describes the dust prints of the family, it is rather idyllic that there last moment was together, spending quality time on a perfect afternoon in a perfect world. It is the perfect life with a perfect house, perfect family and even the idea of living in the perfect suburb.

Obvious dystopia is presented through that of a nuclear war. It is this nuclear disaster that brings chaos and measures the synapse of a perfect reality. The autonomy of the house alone, continuing its duties for no one, just to continue the ideology of a perfect world, confronts the reader with the charge of realizing that such an autonomy is non-existent and that facing the truth is divine.

Extra Credit Response to Lowell Harris Blog Entry Unit II

Lowell,
I have to say that I do agree with you as far as McChrystal's career of service is concerned. His track record is impeccable, and therefore should have been considered first and foremost. But as I have recently noticed, regardless of a superior career track record, no one is safe. It is almost as if every individual through the ranks is being closely scrutinized. One act of human nature can ruin your military career forever.

Unfortunately in regards to McChrystal, the situation deems that even off the record, comments are not sacred. Though journalists are held to a code of ethics, I feel that they should be held accountable legally, for confrontational situations such as these. They have destroyed a career that cannot be repaired, all to score a story which will enhance their own personal career. It seems that just as with any other ladder of employment, individuals want to race to the top and stop on anyone in their way.I do want to say though, that unfortunately when you are in a position such as McChrystral, you can't even make a statement off the record. This is a double jeopardy career killer. Public officials are held to a different standard and anything they say or do is going to be chastised, even if it is for the greater good of our society.

Troop moral obviously will be affected regardless. They learn that speaking up for the good or the bad is a very dangerous act. Fighting for your country seems to be a taboo job. Everyone has a position on the job that the military does, but yet they don't want to be the ones to step up to do it. The media creates a negative frenzy in this relationship. They minimize the features on the courageous efforts and focus on the dramatic light of dishonorable actions. True to nature the media has created a foundation not based on human error, but instead on the perfect human. If you can't locate the ideology to be the perfect human.....your ruined. Great Subject to blog about!

Extra Credit Blog Response Unit II to Monique Talley

Monique,
While I believe that the media can be hopeful and respondent to write an article that offers true humanity, I think about the author first of that kind of article. As I read your blog I had a moment of reflection. It seems as though all journalists have a starting point or a finishing point. Their beginning and end dictate what they perceive as "news". Articles that focus on humanity definitely deserve more credit than they receive. Though my opinion of the media is still biased, that doesn't mean that I don't have a deep rooted respect for a journalist that writes about the goodness in this world. I liked your approach to your blog. It seems that your focus was on a specific journalistic style versus journalism in entirety. This comment is not meant to be negative in any way, I am just looking at your blog in a rather refreshing perspective. In my opinion drama and theatrics sell; its what's wholesome that doesn't. But what makes this type of journalism special is that it is pure in all respects and offers a greater good to our society. I wish that more journalists could consider this perspective and utilize it to their advantage. Great job on focusing on a wholesome side to journalism!

Extra Credit Post Responding to Dayna Clark Jones

Dayna,
My interpretation of your blog may have taken me to the wayside a bit, but I really liked the focus. While I am a sports guru, I am ashamed to say that I honestly didn't pay attention to the riots. Did I hear about them? Well yes. But I am an example of society and how certain aspects of media affect us. I was focused more on the LA Lakers and their win to really think or even pay attention to any negative media. Which brings me back to both your point and mine. Your absolutely right, I too googled the riots and it wasn't a lack of correct search tactics, it more the scenario of not really reporting on the story. Obviously this is a reflection of both the media and a brand name. The media to a certain extent only reports what they are told to, and obviously they are limited on certain "touchy" topics. That is apparent with this situation. Why would the media take away from a multi-billion dollar business just to talk about a "little riot"? That is the sad part about the media. It almost seems to me that they can be bought and paid for like a material item. How insane!! They aren't going to report on a riot when the LA Lakers just won, that is their most important priority....or story I mean. The media in all forms must be held accountable. Well done on your blog.....the end justified the mean.

Response to Allison Stearman's Unit II Blog

Allison,
I empathize with your opinion on the negative media coverage that the oil spill, in the Gulf, has received. I too have been following the media coverage over the spill, and to be honest, I can't imagine a positive light to this disaster. Your right though, all of the media finger pointing hasn't resolved the issue!
But I must say I feel that the media was forced to focus on the negative in this instance, because for a very long time all the relief efforts were kept secured. What else could reporters possibly report.... only the negative? I had watched a story on CNN, where a journalist was questioning relief staff and they were literally being paid to keep the situation private. All of the workers had no comment. With respect to that,I do find that it may be hard for the media to report anything in a positive and truthful manner about the oil disaster, due to the fact that both BP and our own government didn't want to release any strategies to the public at that time. The holding of information really defamed BP's character.
While I feel that everyone does deserve time away for a leave of absents, those in the public eye,unfortunately, have to make guarded choices in comparison to you or I, as to their activities. The media, I feel does thrive on the negativity, because let's be honest how much more likely are we to watch something dramatic versus a story that is heartfelt. Our cultural ideals of what the media should report have gradually changed, though I'm not sure it's for the better. Your blog entry definitely tackled the reality of the media coverage though. You touched on many of the circumstances that are being reported and how grotesquely the media distorts them!! Good Job!