Week 6: Train Go Sorry

I am a hearing student (or deaf student) assigned the book Train Go Sorry in my Introduction to Humanities Class. Other readings assigned in this class include several essays from the book My California. In both books and film, we examined the cultures of California that form a microcosm of the U.S.; and the U.S. forms a microcosm of the world. In this essay, I will incorporate 4 required questions. "Train Go Sorry" in the deaf world translates to "missed the boat." More specifically in the story it refers to a missed connection or opportunity. The story revolves around an African-American student named, James Lee Taylor. Taylor’s roots are stemmed from poverty. Being a deaf student and attending a prominent school on low finances can alter one's future for better or worse. Taylor proves he can over come the odds and eventually graduates. One thing that specifically helps him progress through school is by living on campus. He grew up in the New York City projects. Due to bacterial meningitis which commonly triggers deafness, James had to endure obstacles from a very young age. James has a brother Joseph who is discussed prominently in the book. His brother has many individual issues as well as deafness. Joseph is quickly sent to Riker's Prison after countless encounters with law enforcement. While Joseph is in prison James becomes anxious to visit him and eventually does, only to find out that Joseph's court date coincides with James visitation. When James realizes this, he realizes he has missed the boat and a critical opportunity.

This book was written and narrated by, Leah Cohen. Cohen was raised at the Lexington School for the Deaf and her parents and grandfather were all deaf. Her Grandfather was a student and father was the superintendent of the school. Growing up around deaf parents and being raised among deaf students and people, Cohen felt like an outsider because she had no physical ailments. This is a rather unusual precedent I found intriguing. The shoes Cohen is constantly filling are those of the deaf community. Her effort to be one with the deaf culture eventually pays off and she becomes an interpreter, helping her feel more connected to the people she loves so much. Whenever Cohen's parents noticed her speaking a lot, they encourage her to use a different form of sending messages, sign language. Her parents had a significant influence on the outcome of her life. Cohen is also perplexed at the immense difficulty deaf individuals have in their efforts to speak. She analyses every aspect of the deaf community and tries to improve their lives anyway she can, truly inspirational.

The image that sticks out in my mind, probably due to its emotional attachment, is how the student's at Lexington are handled. During chapter 8 Cohen describes the classrooms as being places where students are unable to communicate effectively. Deaf schools need to state of the art facilities and constantly should be updating their programs. With technology significantly affecting communication, there are plenty of methods for deaf students to relay their messages. Even when her father was attending the school and while she grew up their, the facilities sound rather out of date. These classrooms need to be tailored to the students needs with adequate services. This chapter was interesting and significant because Cohen gives good insight into what it is like being in a world surrounded by and dictated by voices.

Five facts that people should aware of regarding the ASL or Deaf Culture. The ASL *American Sign Language" is not the form of communication for deaf individuals. Hearing loss can be genetically linked, which is why the majority of deaf individuals have a family history of the defect. A large portion of the deaf community does not view themselves as being at a disadvantage. They consider themselves to be another minority. Bacterial meningitis, which James had, can be tested for by a simple blood test. Doctors can determine which form and how severe a case it is. Years ago, the teletypewriter was implemented across deaf cultures to aid in communication.

Video Clips:

Deaf West Theatre: This clip was performed by the sign language theatre and the show they are performing is, "Big River." This video displays that deaf individuals can accomplish just as much as the speaking world. I enjoyed the diversity and enthusiasm of the theatre group, it made it entertaining to watch.

Marlee Matlin Dancing with the Stars: Dancing with the Stars star, Marlee Matlin is in an interview and using sign language along side an interpreter. I admire the deaf community’s resilience to not let the noise of the mainstream media damper their soft voices.

Indiana Visual Arts Day: The Indiana School for the Deaf offers numerous activities and alternatives for kids to express their hidden talents. Deaf students need a voice as well, and the school provides a platform for them to thrive from. More programs need to be modeled after the one in Indiana.

Waiting for the World to Change: "Waiting on the World to Change" was palpable and somewhat emotional song. ASL was used to sing along and their body language is incredible. The deaf community needs more attention to improve their communication methods and lives in general.

Deaf News: The deaf community truly has a world of their own. This newscast was presented in ASL. Everyone of the production team communicates using sign language and other symbols. I am glad to see the deaf community has taken the initiative to provide normal services that the speaking world enjoys.

This was a great assignment. It was very informative and the book was well written. The story flowed nicely and was an easy read, but pack with knowledge. I did not know we would be examining the deaf culture and it was very interesting. I have a new outlook on the deaf community and have an appreciation for the struggles they go through on a daily basis in order to send communicate effectively. The videos enhanced the experience and provided visual aids which allowed me to gain a better understanding of their communication methods.

Week 5: Dialogue

Fresno (Mark Arax): Fresno is the thirty sixth largest city in the US and fifth largest in California. I didn't realize how large Fresno was. Over 500,000 people live in Fresno compared to 1950 when the population was 91,000 plus. Fresno is one of the most rapidly growing cities in California. Much of Fresno's history is steeped in agriculture and it is still a prominent aspect of the city today. Fresno is an industrial and agricultural powerhouse and a lucrative asset for the state's economy. Fresno does not appear to be well known outside of California, but deserves a lot of credit.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fresno

http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/1632343

Beverly Hills (Aimee Liu): Beverly Hills is located among several wealthy neighborhoods in West Los Angeles such as, Bel-Air. Many of the buildings and homes in Beverly Hills are unique and extremely large. The city is relatively small with a population of nearly 34,000. Liu discussed how wealthy the city is and it can be seen walking along Rodeo Dr. as exotic cars cruise by. Oil was discovered on present day Beverly Hills in 1865 and the city saw a rise in the number of its residents. I can now see how a homeless individual could feel small and disconnected from the residents of 90210. There is a status quo in Beverly Hills that must be maintained and they frown upon those who fall short. Some of the most famous hotels in Southern California are located in this city such as, the Beverly Hills Hotel and Beverly-Wilshire Hotel. I have never been to Beverly Hills before but, I would like to go, especially to find if all of the stereotypes are true. The beauty of Beverly Hills is stunning and fascinating.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beverly-Wilshire_Hotel

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-7883674439858882180&ei=eQJgSpb-G5HyqAPT6KkS&q=beverly+hills&hl=en

Owens River (Jefferson Parker): Prior to reading Parker's essay on his experiences on the Owens River I had no knowledge that it even existed. I had never heard of it until now. I have been to Yosemite where part of the river travels through, near Yosemite Village so I have a good idea of what it possibly looks like. Sadly a large portion of the river is channeled to the Los Angeles Aqueduct which provides Los Angeles water. Many people are enraged over providing water to Los Angeles and believe it poses environmental concerns. The river is located near the small town of Bishop, Ca in the Owens Valley. The Sierra Nevada Mountains add to the rivers wildlife and great views.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Owens_River

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CN1VYCczw9U&eurl=http://video.google.com/videosearch%3Fq%3Dfresno%2Bca%26hl%3Den%26emb%3D0%26aq%3Df&feature=player_embedded

American River Parkway, Sacramento (Mary Mackey): Mackey describes the American River as a place where she found peace and serenity. I have traveled along the American River Parkway and seen many parts of the river. It is a great place to escape the fast pace of nearby Sacramento. The river provides relief for many residents. The parkway stretches twenty three miles and is right next to Highway 50. Discovery Park is one of the highlights of the parkway and features a thirty two mile long bike path named the Jedadiah Smith Bike Trail. The parkway was confirmed in 1844 and has remained a local attraction ever since.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_River_Parkway

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FmFyO1bFsOs

Classmate Responses:

Andrea: "The way he described the highways in LA made me think that maybe I am very fortunate to live here in Sonoma County." I feel fortunate as well to live in Sonoma County. I did not realize how confusing and busy the highways are in LA. They are a highly complex system of roads.

Daniel: "He [Humes] makes the town come to life with a vibrant description, making it sound like the ideal town to get away from the stresses of big city life in Southern California, I mean, he makes me want to go down and take a visit. " Seal Beach sounds like a great place to visit and live. I had never heard of it before this project. The city seems to have small town charm and diversity.

Marissa: "Thomas goes on to describe Big Sur and how beautiful it was when he was young riding around the bluffs." I remember visiting Big Sur when I was young and the huge bluffs have always been a vivid part of my memory. Big Sur is in an ideal location and features panoramic views of the coastline.

Preston: "But, she also describes the honesty of Beverly Hills which consists of homeless people, pregnant and alone, young woman begging for money and the unrecognized people on the streets." I understand Beverly Hills has a homeless problem but, every California city has similar circumstances. Homeless flock to Beverly Hills because that is where the money is.

Hilary: "This story made me think of how Santa Rosa has become more and more industrialized." Santa Rosa much like Fresno has indeed seen more industrial growth. Northern Santa Rosa used to be fields and crops and now it is shops and medical facilities.

Nicholas: "The law of evolution has dictated our adaptation into homo californus mobilus, and clever tool-making - the hands-free cellular phone, the multi CD player, and the radar detection device- has saved our breed from extinction." This is a great quote from Hector Tobar. It describes Californians in a humorous matter and is not far from the truth. Californians seem to enjoy multi-tasking.

Chris: "I think it’s neat to learn about Berkeley’s styles and it’s fun to think about various neuroses of all it’s inhabitants." Berkeley definitely contains many different styles and perspectives. This is what makes the city unique and intriguing. It is a melting pot for all walks of life.

Jason: "I can picture these communities with their matching flowers, their same grass, and their same color." Yes, many houses in Newport Beach look alike and people appear to enjoy buying similar things. Newport Beach is a vibrant place to visit.

Katherine: "I learned about some of the wildlife (i.e. ducks, coyotes, snakes, and beavers) that can be found on the river, as well as the cultural/spiritual gatherings (i.e. baptisms, prayers, offerings, picnics) that take place there." I have been to the American River as well and did not know there were beavers and spiritual gatherings. It would be interesting to visit the same places as author, Mary Mackey.

Teresa: "The story made me think of how life was 20 years ago, how life was simpler before all of this computer madness and cell phones and how everyone feels it is their right to be able to contact anyone at anytime of day, no matter what they may be doing.” Hector Tobar writes a lively and colorful essay and makes me regret cell phones and computers. Being able to contact anyone at anytime can become annoying, I agree.

Week 4: My California

1) "The Big Valley" by Mark Arax

2) Summary: Mark Arax is a native of Fresno. In his essay he shares tales of his life in the central valley. Like many individuals who grow up in this region, farming is a part of life and Arax was no exception. He recalls growing up on a farm filled with an assortment of crops specifically, Figs. His father was an avid fig farmer and Arax was always helping him maintain the lush central California soil. It isn't a surprise Arax still identifies himself as a farmer because it is in his blood. As California sped toward the future, so did Fresno. Arax discusses the influx of industrial expansion and how he, along with Fresno, changed. Arax discarded his farming life and traded it in for the thrill of big corporations and money. However, he hasn't completely abandoned farming. Arax has a lively garden with an assortment of crops. Arax seems genuinely proud of his relatives and the lifestyle they chose to live.

3) Favorite Quote: "Summer here isn't measured by the calendar but by the pick and pull and squeeze and crush of the unbroken harvest." (pg. 20)

4) What did Arax make me think of? I didn't feel much connection to Arax's essay after the first few paragraphs. I have never been to Fresno, nor did I plan on ever going. However, I quickly began to think of my Grandmother who grew up in Fresno long before Arax was even alive. She always discusses the hot summers and miles and miles of crops. In the 1930's and 1940's she says it was one big farming town. About five years ago she visited for the first time in a long time. Like Arax she was amazed at the amount of shopping centers. Near her old neighborhood, which used to be surrounded by grass patches, it is now encompassed by Arco gas stations/markets. It is disappointing to read and hear stories of the region before it was polluted, I can only dream of what Fresno must have been like before its rapid expansion.

5) One thing I did not know before I started the reading that I now know: I was unaware of how many people miss the "old Fresno." Whenever I read about Fresno or hear about Fresno everyone thinks of the past rather than what the city stands for now. The shopping centers are diminishing its history.

1) "Transients in Paradise" by Aimee Liu

2) Summary: Liu writes about Beverly Hills. All of the stereotypes of southern California seem to come to life in Beverly Hills. Liu gives specific examples of the shallow people spread throughout the city. She recalls a funeral that looked more like a beauty contest. Instead of morning over the dead, many decided to compare their looks and see who had bigger muscles. Liu says that there is little regard for the many homeless throughout Beverly Hills. Outside of a famous deli in Beverly Hills named "Nate 'n Al's," nobody would offer a homeless man named Richard any food or money. When he ceased showing up everyone seemed at odds. It was later discovered that he was a screenwriter hindered by a malicious disease preventing him from realizing his dreams. Liu insists that Beverly Hills is in a league of its own. The city is filled with expensive cars and face lifts. Despite all this, Liu admires the city for its beautiful houses, views and cleanliness.

3) Favorite Quote: "She crouches down under a black woolen poncho and holds up a cardboard sign that reads in hand-lettering: Sick, Pregnant, Stranded." (pg. 34)

4) What did Liu make me think of? Liu made me think of the judgments people make regarding southern California and Beverly Hills. It is places like Beverly Hills which give many places in the region unfair stereotypes. For example many individuals from Northern California and outsiders view southern California as a place of plastic faces and spoiled people. Her writings confirmed that this may be true, but to people who have actually seen these places, they know it is not. People outside of California always think of beaches, celebrities, glitz and glamour but, there is also a drastically different side.

5) One thing I did not know before I started the reading that I now know: How are there no medical facilities in Beverley Hills?! This needs to change. I had no idea this was the case. One also will not come across many other places seen in typical cities such as, cemeteries and sanitation facilities. This is truly amazing. It could possibly be the fakest places in the US. I also didn't realize the huge gap between the wealthy and poor. There doesn't seem to be a middle class in Beverly Hills.

1) "Showing off the Owens" by Jefferson Parker

2) Summary: Parker and his friend head west to the Owens River for a fly-fishing adventure. Parker tells his friend Brian about the size of the fish they'll be catching and he is disappointed but, once they arrive in Bishop, California he is amazed. Brian is an angler in New York and writes as well. He has caught numerous fish. Parker loves fishing and describes how he constantly thinks about it. The Lower Owens River is where they spend most of their time. They end up catching quite a bit of fish. Parker discusses that once you drop the line the water it becomes infectious and very exciting because what ends up on the other end is a mystery.

3) Favorite Quote: "Now is a good time to digress very briefly on the topic of fly fishing. It's a progressive disease, like rabies that starts with an innocuous bite then lies dormant." (pg. 39)

4) What did Parker make me think of? Parker made me think of the many times I have been fishing with my grandfather. Sonoma County and Northern California have some of the best places to fish in the world. I wish I did it more often and every time I do go it is always infectious, like Parker describes. I never seem to catch anything but, somehow it is invigorating. Parker has inspired me to go fishing again.

5) One thing I did not know before I started the reading that I now know: I have never heard of the Owens River before reading this story. It sounds like a place I would like to go because I enjoy the countryside. Parker makes it sounds like must-see.

1) "The Distant Cataract about Which We Do Not Speak" by Mary Mackey

2) Summary: Mackey recalls her time spent on an island located along the American River Parkway in Sacramento. She discusses how it is a safe haven for her and her husband, who are both college teachers. Among the high speed pace of California's capitol, Sacramento lays an oasis where people of all cultures go to find serenity. Mackey is amazed at the wildlife which surrounds the island suck as, Ducks, Beavers and other animals. The water is very cold due to the Sierra's and is never warm, but refreshing. She says it seems secluded yet, it is located near a busy overpass. One of the cultures she specifically writes about is the Japanese. Many Japanese are attracted to the island and river's beauty as well. They often send illuminated floating lanterns down the river honoring those lost at sea. Mackey loves the river and enjoys the mix of cultures and creatures who keep her entertained.

3) Favorite Quote: "We are sitting on an island in the American River, right in the middle of Sacramento, the state capital, a metropolitan area of well over a million people, but my husband and I like to preserve our mutual delusion." (pg. 48)

4) What did Mackey make me think of? Mackey brought to mind my time spent living in Sacramento. The American River is impossible to miss. I have been there many times to find peace. All along the river are secluded areas where one can get relax and enjoy the beauty. Everyone flocks to the river because it is the only place to go in Sacramento other than the dirty, Folsom Lake. I also thought of the diversity in the city. Sacramento is actually a more diverse city than San Francisco and one the most diverse in the state. It has a huge Russian population and many others cultures.

5) One thing I did not know before I started the reading that I now know: I did not know that that many people conduct religious and spiritual ceremonies by the American River. It truly is an oasis for many people living in Sacramento.

What similarities and differences do you see between the authors and the topics they chose to discuss? All of these stories contain knowledge about different areas of California that are special to each of the author has an emotional connection. Arax recalls the days spent in his youth along with father and grandfather. Lui writes about the sadness she feels when watching homeless melting away among the brightness reflecting from the concrete of Beverly Hills. Parker discusses his love for fly-fishing and how it infects every part of him. Mackey points out the peace and serenity a person can feel fifty yards from a line of speeding automobiles. It story involves a different pace of life. Lui writes about busy Beverly Hills, Mackey about Sacramento/American River, Parker about the secluded Owen's River and Arax discusses a mix of city life and rural life. They all come from intriguing backgrounds with one thing in common, trying to discover what matters among a changing landscape.

Classmate Responses:

1) Lola: "Freire believes that we live in a world that has controllers but we can participate and change the outcome." Yes, everyone has the chance to change their future despite obstacles that may set people back.

2) Kimmie: "Like Ariza, Freire never gave up what he was passionate about." I agree, Freire always strived for what he believed would affect people's lives positively and intellectually. He never stopped until his last day.

3) Tarissa: "The communication between Florentino and Fermina was always strained and that had a tremendous effect on their relationship throughout their lives." Communication definitely played a key role in Florentino and Fermina's relationship. Florentino failed to ask important questions which would have improved their bond.

4) Marylou: "This is a story about a man that never stops loving a woman; this is even though he is not with her." It is amazing how much time passes before they connect with each other once again, one does not see this happen much in today's society.

5) Rachel: "Paulo Freire's quote of "Reading the world before reading the word," would be an important message in how this love story is a human story that transcends borders." This is a great quote. There are so many factors that go into understanding humanity and the words which explain the world.

7) Jason: "Love is not a small emotion felt by unique individuals, it is an emotion full of passion, and it is an emotion that makes both men and women do the unthinkable." Yes, love, as we can see from the movie will drive people to extreme lengths.

8) Aloma: "Let's say that both of these men stayed devoted to their work, beliefs and convictions no matter what obstacle may have been put into their path." They were indeed intent on following through with their beliefs.

9) Chris: "This story applies to the whole world in many ways. It beckons us to follow our heart: “Life, not death, has no limits.”" I don't agree with this quote. Nobody knows what will happen to us after we die, so how can one come to the conclusion that death has no limits?

10) Hilary: "This movie made clear to me how social class can affect your life." Social class can change the course of one's life very easily, for better or worse. "Love in the Time of Cholera," is a prime example.