Media Convergence Initiative

WrestleMania, The Show of the Immortals.

Posted on March 31, 2014 by scsmith

WrestleMania, the show of the immortals. The nickname itself comes from THE most famous wrestler of all time, Hulk Hogan, the Immortal Hulk Hogan to you. This year will be the 30th anniversary of WrestleMania, its a big one to say the least. WWE, the company that invented WrestleMania and put wrestling on the map today, has pulled out all the stops and spared no expenses this year. Hulk Hogan, excuse me the Immortal Hulk Hogan will be hosting the event, some of the most classic and infamous wrestlers of all times both men and women will be inducted into the Hall of Fame, and who knows the list of surprise superstars we will see come out of the woodworks.

WrestleMania started 30 years ago on March 31st, 1985 with WrestleMania at Madison Square Garden in New York. Back then the WWE was known as the WWF (later changed to WWE because of lawsuit by World Wildlife Foundation). The main event of this very first history making WrestleMania was Hulk Hogan and Mr. T vs. Roddy Piper and Paul Orndorff, but that’s not the most famous. See, the “Immortal” nickname didn’t just come out of the blue, it was etched forever in time. WrestleMania 3, March 29th, 1987, the Pontiac Silverdome. Home of the largest indoor attendance record at 93,173 until 2010, it was building up to be one history making night. Hulk Hogan vs. Andre the Giant as the main event. Andre the Giant was just as the name described, a Giant. Nobody could beat him, I mean nobody. Until tonight, when Hulk Hogan picked up Andre the Giant and body slammed him to the mat, hit him with the big leg drop and pinned him 1,2,3, thus becoming the new WWF world heavyweight champion. And that’s when Hulk Hogan became forever transformed into the “Immortal” Hulk Hogan and WrestleMania from there on out was known as the show of the Immortals.

WrestleMania for me and wrestling itself is very important in my life. It brought me hope, gave me escape, and kept me believing. Wrestling is bigger than ever today but it still gets the same stereotypical insults. What people don’t realize is that it’s no different than a TV show or a movie, “script” wise. But where it does differ is modesty. Wrestlers spend at least 300 days on the road, are paid only a fraction of what other athletes make, and have to keep a strict workout regiment. Yet, they still make time to grant wishes and sign autographs. John Cena is the number one wish granter ever for the Make A Wish foundation, and the most requested wish. WWE brings in millions of dollars for their Be A Star foundation that brings awareness to bullying in schools. Every year during Christmas the WWE goes overseas to perform for the troops in their annual “Tribute to the Troops.” They just promote goodness in the world in my opinion. When I was a kid I ate my vitamins because Hulk Hogan told me to. Nowadays kids learn to never give up form John Cena.

There is so much more I could say as an avid wrestling fan for 22 plus years but it would take pages. I will say this, wrestling has inspired me to do what I do today, make TV and short films. The very entrance of Bret “The Hitman” Hart back in the early days was absolutely astounding to me, it was the coolest thing I had ever seen. That very entrance was what I now know today as a dolly zoom.

WrestleMania 30, its gonna be big. I will be watching it, will you.

Posted in Audio/Video, Entertainment, Environment, General, Sports | Comments Off

“The Most Corrupt Town in America” Vows to Clean Up Its Act

Posted on March 30, 2014 by jessicafsmith1002

A Florida town some say is the most corrupt in America was spared its spot on the map Friday after two state lawmakers dropped their bid to strip it of its charter, CNN reports. Hampton, Fla., had been under the legislative microscope since February, when an audit revealed 31 violations, or roughly one for every 15 of Hampton’s 477 residents. According to the audit, the city’s police department, responsible for just a 1,200-foot stretch of highway, issued 12,698 speeding tickets between 2011 and 2012, raking in hundreds of thousands of dollars in fines.

It’s unclear where all that money went, but the audit found city employees charged $132,000 on an account at a BP convenience store located next to City Hall. “The police department swelled to 19 officers,” CNN said, but “many of the officers weren’t trained properly, and the audit found that some of them drove uninsured vehicles. One officer, nicknamed ‘Rambo,’ dressed in tactical gear and strapped an assault rifle across his chest, just to write tickets.”

“It’s like something out of a Southern Gothic novel,” Sen. Rob Bradley told Time magazine last month. “This town exists apparently just to write speeding tickets. Most people don’t understand why it exists in the first place.” Bradley and Rep. Charles Van Zant subsequently threatened to yank Hampton’s charter, but abandoned the idea after city officials vowed to clean up its act.

According to an extensive plan presented to the state lawmakers, Hampton agreed to get rid of its police force, replace its scandal-plagued officials in a special September election and account for the thousands of dollars spent by employees.

Posted in Economy, Odd News, Politics | Comments Off

Gang Affiliation Threatens DeSean Jackson’s Career

Posted on March 30, 2014 by grichards

This past friday, Philadelphia Eagles released their star wide receiver (WR) DeSean Jackson. This came as a shock to fans and perhaps the whole league. Jackson has proven to be one of the best in the game by using his God given speed and soft hands to become one of the Eagles’ most productive players. This past season Jackson achieved career highs in catches with 20+ yards gained(25) and catches for first downs(60). Jackson is clearly a player who brings a lot to the table, but Eagles’ executives decided to pass on him once online magazine NJ.com reported on Jackson’s ties to gang members in Los Angeles.

This past season, in a game against conference rivals the Washington Redskins, Jackson was recorded flashing a gang sign at cornerback(CB) DeAngelo Hall. His slight gesture seems to be the validating fact to the report.

The NFL has a strict code of conduct regarding players and the use of gestures with any kind of negative connotation. Yet there haven’t been any of fines or consequences against Jackson. I think that since the report that brought light to this issue was published during the off-season, he is likely to get a slap on the wrist if anything.

In the meantime, Jackson has emerged as probably the best player available through free agency at the WR position. Now its up to a team who not only has the money to pay but is also willing to take a chance on a WR with question marks in personality on and off the field. One thing is for sure, which ever team lands Jackson will have a player with game-changing ability and that is worth a lot in the National Football League.

Posted in General, Sports | Tagged free agent, jackson, NFL | Comments Off

Ch-Ch-Ch-Chia: Health Benefits of Chia Seeds!

Posted on March 30, 2014 by joeyafemia

Everyone is always looking for the next big super food. Whether that be through juice cleansing, eating greens, or just finding out what the next great source of food is, chia seeds are by far a great source of healthy omega-3 fats and fiber, and is an easy food for just about anyone’s diet. While chia seeds come from a flowering plant in the mint family that’s native to Mexico and Guatemala, the history behind this seed suggests that it was one of the main ingredients used within the food crops for the Aztecs. Within today’s culture and society, this seed is bringing back its popularity in many different ways. Through putting chia seeds in a juice or smoothie, or using it as your morning cereal, this seed should be in everyone’s diet! With some of the positive health effects that this seed gives us, these health effects include boosting energy, aiding digestion, stabilizing blood sugar, and lowering cholesterol. This tiny seed contains calcium, manganese, and phosphorus. Here are some of the major benefits that chia seeds will give you and after reading the health benefits, you will be adding your chia seeds to everything and anything!

Fiber Filler: Adding chia seeds to your diet is one great way to make sure that you are getting the right amount of fiber into your body a day. Having enough fiber in your diet is extremely important for digestive health.

Stronger Teeth and Bones: Within these chia seeds are more calcium than a glass or two of milk! Chia seeds help build stronger bones and oral health! Eat you chia seeds and prevent osteoporosis!

Protein Time: These chia seeds not only benefit your health, but it adds in your protein for a stronger self! These super foods are a great source of protein and don’t contain any cholesterol!

So pick up your chia seeds today and make sure to sprinkle a little bit of seeds on every meal to notice a healthier you!

Posted in Health | Comments Off

Opening Day Denied National Holiday

Posted on March 30, 2014 by raymond

Opening day in the MLB is more than just a day. It is THE day. The day where fans of all 30 teams have hope. The day that marks the beginning of a six month journey (seven months if you are lucky). The day we celebrate out national pastime.

The past couple of months, former Cardinals star and hall of famer Ozzie Smith created a petition with the intent to make opening day a national holiday. He needed to get at least 100,000 signatures in order for the White House to consider it and he got just that. However on Friday, this attempt was officially denied. Principal Deputy Press Secretary Josh Earnest sent out an email response on Friday to everyone who signed the petition (including myself) stating: “it’s a little our of our strike zone”. Many people didn’t think it would actually work, but it couldn’t hurt to try.

This decision should not get us baseball fans down. We will still look at opening day as a national holiday regardless of this decision. We will still skip school, we will still skip work, and we will still act accordingly despite what anyone says. We do not need to have written permission from congress, although it would have been nice. Opening day is about tradition and family. To me, there is nothing like attending a baseball game with your family or even watching it on television. I love the tradition of Major League Baseball and always will. I’ll always love the annual tradition of telling my boss that I’m sick and will be back at work tomorrow.

Posted in Sports | Comments Off

Applying for an Internship – Things to Consider

Posted on March 30, 2014 by alyssakelly

I’ve been applying for multiple internships for this summer. Luckily, I have one already in Texas but only for a small amount of time a week. So basically I need/want something else to do along with it. It’s not always easy finding the “right” internship. But it’s also not easy when you don’t get the one you want. I have applied for quite a few different internships that I’ve wanted and haven’t gotten. It sucks, but it’s definitely helped me learn about what I need to change or what I can change that might help me later.

First off, get your résumé checked. Have someone else look at it or look up examples on line. A résumé is very important and at first glance can cost you your job. Make sure it’s not redundant and really does highlight what you are able to do.

Also, make an eye catching cover letter. Make yourself stand out and show a bit of your personality. A résumé shows the facts, but your cover letter is you getting the employers attention.

Finally, be confident! Be assertive and sure that it’s something you want. Especially if you get an interview. It is one thing to put it on paper, but you need to be what your résumé says and more. If they liked your application enough than they will probably like you in person as well. You just have to be comfortable and make them want to work with you.

A lot of what you do is about your attitude. If you go into something prepared, you will feel better and the outcome will be better too.

Posted in Education, General, Uncategorized | Comments Off

Rap Group Wu-Tang Clan Releases New Album for a High Price

Posted on March 30, 2014 by joecool12

Wu-Tang Clan has been known for their rap music and having so many members. However the rap group is releasing a new album, which is being sold at a high price. The official price of the album is not being released, but expect to spend a lot of money. The new album, which is called “The Wu – Once Upon A Time In Shaolin will be contained within an engraved silver- and- nickel box.

This is very exciting news for me being a Wu-Tang Clan fan. After so many years not hearing any new music from the group, it makes me excited to know that the members were working on new music in secret. The only downfall is that I do not have the money to pay for their album.

This brings me to another point, RZA the Wu-Tang member himself stated that the new album is being sold as one copy only. Once the buyer purchases this album, then no one else can get a copy. RZA said, “We’re making a single-sale collector’s item. This is like somebody having the scepter of an Egyptian king.”

Wu-Tang Clan is going on tour, which is part of their plan to promote their new album, and once they are done touring, a fan will purchase this limited edition album. However fans should look forward to an anniversary album of Wu-Tang Clan, which will be released this summer under the title of “A Better Tomorrow”.

Overall it is pleasing to see Wu-Tang Clan out there with new music and going on tour for all their fans and upcoming listeners.

Posted in Entertainment | Comments Off

NFL Draft: The Race for the Number One Overall Pick Narrows Down to Four Potential Candidates

Posted on March 30, 2014 by arlen spitalnik

In just over a month from now, Owners, General Managers, Coaches, and college prospects of the NFL will all travel to New York City for the annual Draft Day. With a league-worst 2-14 record last season, the Houston Texans have the bittersweet pleasure of selecting first-overall pick. The biggest question of controversy is: What will the Texans do with this pick?

The first, and probably most popular, option is to select a quarterback. When discussing this option, the 3 best candidates that come to mind are UCF’s Blake Bortles, Louisville’s Teddy Bridgewater, and Texas A&M’s Johnny Manziel. While each one of these players are very solid, the media frequently knocks on each of them for having a certain weakness.

Bortles constantly gets criticized for his off-balance throws, and for not playing at a “big name” school. Bridgewater’s media criticism roots from his small frame, and lack of competition faced in college. Though Manziel won the Heisman Memorial Trophy as a redshirt freshman, he is always getting hammered by sports analysts because of his small size, awkward style of play, and the immature, off-the-field issues (underage drinking, signing autographs for money, etc.) he had in college. Each one of these quarterbacks are well worthy of being selected by Houston, but the media will never let these issues go.

Another is to go after a really talented player, such as the former South Carolina Defensive End, Jadeveon Clowney, who is primarily remembered by his Outback Bowl hit against Michigan. After a stellar 2012 campaign at USC, his 2013 stats did not live up to the same hype. However, Clowney’s amazing performance at the 2014 NFL Combine will keep his draft stock in the mix for the number one overall pick.

Houston could also trade the pick, but only time will tell as the 2014 NFL Draft nears.

Posted in Sports | Comments Off

Every Woman Should Know About Sports And Most Importantly Be A Miami Dolphins Fan

Posted on March 30, 2014 by bosimpson

When you are a little girl no one really pushes sports on you as much as they do for your brothers…Unless you’re raised with a father who is a Dolphins fanatic. I have been to way to many games from the comfort of my home and couch to the stiff seats on the stadiums stands. I have heard pep talks and lectures about the way he team works, all the players, the goals of the team since I was at the age of 6…probably supposed to be playing with Barbies. I was converted into a Dolphins fan and now there’s no going back. Now the fun part, we talk sports.

The Miami Dolphins have really been putting in work into their cap space, which was roughly around 33 million dollars at the start of free agency on March 12th. Now with about a month and a half left until the NFL Draft the Dolphins have used somewhere around 23 million dollars for an immediate cap hit for the 2014 season. With the Dolphins reportedly spending about $30 million in cap space the previous season on not even half of the amount of players that have they have signed for 2014 every Dolphins fan hopes for way more then just a slightly above average .500 season win percentage from a record of 8-8 in 2013.

To name a few big name standout signings such as resigning their 2013 Pro Bowl Cornerback Brent Grimes to a 4-year deal, Denver Broncos standout Super Bowl Running Back Knownshown Moreno to a 1-year deal as a short term fix to their mediocre run game, and one of the top three NFL Left Tackles in Branden Albert of the Kansas City Chiefs inking him to a 5-year deal at the start of Free Agency. All these big moves in Free Agency mean one thing for the Dolphins who have also recently brought in a new General Manager, Dennis Hickey who previously worked with Tampa Bay Buccaneers, PRODUCE RESULTS.

Posted in Business, Entertainment, Sports | Tagged AFC, childhood, Dolphins, dports, football, Miami, NFL | Comments Off

A Teen’s Science Fair Project Could Be Very Economical for the Government

Posted on March 30, 2014 by amanda decarlo

Fourteen-year-old Suvir Mirchandani, found a way to make use of his sixth grade science fair project when it came to the fonts and that the government handouts use. His project tested the amount of ink used with various fonts. It turns out that switching from Times New Roman to Garamond would save the school district $21,000 a year with regards to ink cost. His teacher was so impressed that he sent it to the Journal of Emerging Investigators.

He tested various font styles such as Century Gothic. Mirchandani did not alter the font size just the styles. Since Garamond is more space efficient, this would save lots of money in the long run. He tested five documents from the the Government Printing Office, concluded that the federal government could save $136 million a year. This is amazing considering the fact that the annual ink budget for 2014 is roughly $1.8 billion Even Dr. Sarah Fankhauser said, “We really could see the real-word application in Suvir’s paper.”

Even though many documents are being converted digitally, Survir Michandani insists that his project can still be very beneficial. Not everything physical document can be digitized, and not everybody has access to the internet, and some people prefer physical handouts. He says, “Some things still have to printed.”

This isn’t the first time a school oriented science project has yielded a strong worldwide application, and it won’t be the last. This just really demonstrates the power of the mind, and what can be accomplished by anyone of any age.

Posted in Economy, Science and Technology | Comments Off