13. Reflection

   

Dwight Kruse    

Dr. C. Jason Smith

Eng 101 T-Th 10:30am

10 June 2014

Reflection

When I began this semester, I had no idea what I was getting myself into. As a writer, I had to re-learn everything I knew since it has been almost ten years since I went to school. When the topic of fast food was introduced into my English 101 class, my attention was focused into it. I remember reading Eric Schlosser's book, Fast Food Nation, in the subway on the very first day of class and did not put the book down until I was at the station near my apartment. Fast food has always been a large part of my life. My first job in New York City was in KFC and now I still work for the restaurant industry as a bartender. In my culture, eating fast food is where families came together to enjoy quality time as well as a sign of status that only the middle and higher class families had the privilege to enjoy. I have always been interested in where our food comes from and how America receives it's seemingly endless supply of food. Surprisingly, I learned a lot about where our food comes from and fast food's history. What I learned from reading Fast Food Nation has helped me make better food choices from work and my everyday life. Knowing a little bit more about what I eat on a daily basis and where it comes from has helped me become a better person. I now make better choices for myself when I used to indulge on fast food all the time. 

     I started off as a weak writer and more opinionated than anything. I would make grammar mistakes on a regular basis and would have to frequently check my work. Failing the argument mid-term paper was a turning point in my life. It made me realize how weak of a writer I was and how much I could not focus on everything as a whole in a paper, but easily distracted I would become off of one subject. I was nervous since it was my first mid-term in college but reading it after I failed; I saw how weak I was and how much I needed to improve.  I started reading what I put on the blogs and started doing more revisions to make myself a better writer. I would change certain words that would not fit and reading sentences out loud to make whatever I write flow naturally. I focused more on transitions, because I would find myself repeating a lot of what I had already written. I basically had to rebuild myself as well as my confidence in writing. I promised myself to get better at writing by the time the semester was over and would take in what I learned into my research essay.

     When it was time to start my research essay I chose organic food as a main topic, because after reading Eric Schlosser's book, I felt a little bit insecure about what I had eaten in the past years. It made me over-analyze everything in the grocery stores and I figured I would use my energy to focus more on a better alternative. I was also curious as to what I would find and I am so glad I chose it. In my mind, I was able to differentiate conventional and organic food as two worlds and make a comparison. It gave me a boost about where I was going to go and more confidence behind my writing. As a research writer, there would be many things I would change since this was my very first research essay. I did not even know how to make a citation page. As a total learning experience, this class built my foundation for my future ahead. I will take what I learn here into my future nursing career and beyond. I am forever grateful for this opportunity to take what I learned here and continue to build my confidence even more for the years to come.

DRAFT: When I began this semester, I had no idea what I was getting myself into. As a writer, I had to re-learn everything I knew since it has been almost ten years since I went to school. The topic of fast food that was introduced into my English 101 class and that took my interest in the very beginning. I remember reading Eric Schlosser's book, Fast Food Nation, in the subway on the very first day of class and did not put the book down until I was at the station near my apartment. Fast food has always been a large part of my life. My first job in New York City was in KFC and now I still work for the restaurant industry as a bartender. In my culture, eating fast food is where families came together to enjoy quality time as well as a sign of status that only the middle and higher class families had the privilege to enjoy. I have always been interested in where our food comes from and how America receives it's seemingly endless supply of food. Surprisingly, I learned a lot about where our food comes from and fast food's history. What I learned from reading Fast Food Nation has helped me make better food choices from work and my everyday life. Knowing a little bit more about what I eat on a daily basis and where it comes from has helped me become a better person, because I now make better choices for myself when I used to indulge on fast food all the time.
     I started off as a weak writer and more opinionated than anything. I would make grammar mistakes on a regular basis and would have to frequently check my work. Failing the argument mid-term paper was a turning point in my life. It made me realize how weak of a writer I was and how much I could not focus on everything as a whole in a paper, but easily distracted I would become off of one subject. I was nervous since it was my first mid term in college but reading it after, I saw how weak I was and how much I needed to improve.  I started  reading what I put on the blogs and started doing more revisions to make myself a better writer. I would change certain words that would not fit and reading sentences out loud to make whatever I wrote smoother. I focused more on transitions, because I would find myself repeating a lot of what I had already written. I basically had to rebuild myself as well as my confidence in writing. I promised myself to get better at writing by the time the semester was over and would take in what I learned into my research essay.
     When It was time to start my research essay I chose organic food as a main topic, because after reading Eric Schlosser's book, I felt a little bit insecure about what I had eaten in the past years. It made me over analyze everything in the grocery stores and I figured I would use my energy to focus more on a better alternative. I was also curious as to what I would find and I am so glad I chose it. In my mind, I was able to differentiate conventional and organic food as two worlds and make a comparison. It gave me a boost about where I was going to go and more confidence behind my writing. As a research writer, there would be many things I would change since this was my very first research essay. I did not even know how to make a citation page. As a total learning experience, this class built my foundation for my future ahead. I will take what I learn here into the future career and beyond and I am forever grateful for this opportunity to take what I learned here and continue to build my confidence even more.

12. A Healthy Dinner

My girlfriend is one lucky girl! As an extra credit opportunity, I get to cook her a healthy meal and show it here on blogspot. So, I decided to make her:

1. Organic turkey burgers

2. Fresh Caprese Salad

We stopped by Trader Joe's to get some fresh ground turkey and sesame seed buns. 

I then seasoned the turkey with a little bit of salt, pepper and garlic powder to taste. I used Goya olive oil for the pan before I put the meat in. 

I made sure the turkey was Cooked well done before I added one slice of cheese to top it off. As soon as the cheese began to melt, it was time to place on the bun and serve! 

 She loved it!

2. Fresh Caprese Salad

I went by my local market to purchase some fresh basil and tomatoes. I also purchased part skim mozzerella from key food.

Made sure it was washed thoroughly. Then I began prepping the mozzerella and basil and patterned in while plating in a tomato, basil, mozzerella, basil, etc.. 

Drizzled Goya olive oil, then added salt and pepper to taste! Not bad for my first time.

Thanks for reading! 

11. Organic Food Research Essay

Dwight Kruse

Dr. C. Jason Smith

Eng101 T-Th 10:30am

23 May 2014

Organically Speaking

    America has become oblivious to the obvious: Organic food is the best option. Do you ever wonder why certain foods and meats in grocery stores can afford to be so cheap? The demand in America for cheaper food has become so large that everyday consumers turn a blind eye to how their food is made and more about the quantity over quality. But what do we really sacrifice? You are what you eat, but do you really know what you are eating? If you choose a brand other than organic, you are eating chemical fertilizers that your vegetables and plants grew in. You are in danger of consuming synthetic insecticides as well as pesticide residue. The meat you purchase has been injected with growth hormones while spending their whole lives packed with other animals with no room to breathe. Those chemical raised plants and vegetables? They have also been consumed by the meats you are about to consume. Consumers like us fund these corporations every day without a second thought. We make them richer so they can continue to buy more land and pollute the environment. Big corporations overwork their employees and fatigue those who prepare our food. With the land we help them buy, they put more and more organic farmers out of business and continue their reign to poison us little by little. By eating and purchasing conventional food products, we are putting ourselves and our future at risk. By taking a little time out and learning about how our food is made, perhaps we can make a wiser decision today that will make a world of difference for tomorrow.

While shopping in a grocery store, you have probably noticed certain labels on meats and produce labeled "Organic" that is usually followed by a heavy price tag compared to the items next to it that does not have an "Organic" label. The reason behind the price tag is a world of difference between conventional food and organic food. Organic food is better for your health and the environment and it is worth the investment. After all, your body is the ultimate machine and it deserves the best care in the world. By buying organic products, you are also investing into a better environment as well as your local farmers. Organic products have to meet strict government standards to earn their label. Organic farmers invest heavily into their products by using natural fertilizers to organic feed to animals compared to antibiotics and growth hormones used by factory farmers. These farmers work hard everyday to supply American consumers with a healthier and more beneficial alternative. Even if the prices are higher than conventional farming, every cent goes back into your diet and a safer environment. According to an article on Mayo Clinic, organic farmers apply natural fertilizers such as compost for their soil and plants. They spray pesticides from natural sources and give animals organic feed. Organic farmers allow their animals access to outdoors while maintaining a balanced diet in clean housing as a measure to minimize disease (Mayo Clinic). Organic farmers work very hard to maintain their farms while going through a very strict certification program from The U.S. Department of Agriculture to earn their organic label. They deserve every cent invested back into them, because they invest back into their consumers as well as into their farms.

     Although we know factory farming exists, we do not really think about what goes on behind those closed doors. Slaughterhouses owned by large corporations have come a long way from what they once were. Butchers were once paid a middle class salary and now companies hire immigrants for less than minimum wage. They intentionally hire workers who won't complain, do immense amounts of overtime with no extra pay, and compensate them very little for injuries if not at all. According to Eric Schlosser from the book Fast Food Nation,"From a purely economic point of view, injured workers are a drag on profits. They are less productive. Getting rid of them makes a deal of financial sense, especially when new workers are readily available and inexpensive to train". How can we trust these companies when they do not even care for their workers? Since the boom of fast food franchises such as Mcdonald's and Carl's Jr., factory farming has increased productivity to meet the demands of Americans who feed into their fast food crave due to their busy schedules. This increases the risk of workers who are fatigued from over work. Bacteria from fecal matter gets mixed in with the meat that gets delivered right on to your plate. Eric Schlosser states a quote from the Secretary of Agriculture Dan Glickman complained in 1997, "We cane fine circuses for mistreating elephants, but we can't fine companies that violate food-safety standards." Regarding an E. coli outbreak in February 1997. By that time the United States Department of Agriculture even finds out, It would be already to late. These companies have put a lot of lives at risk and with how fast they put their products out, anyone can be their next victim.

     Large food industries have put organic farmers out of businesses as well as buying them out. According to Stephanie Strom from New York Times, "Coca-Cola, Cargill, ConAgra, General Mills, Kraft, and M&M Mars among them- have gobbled up most of the nation's organic food industry". Bear Naked and Kashi belong to "Kellog" and Naked Juice belongs to PepsiCo. There are also some things to look for in labels being misdirected. For example, "made with organic ingredients" are on the label but not used with the seal. Seventy percent or less organic ingredients cannot use the seal or the word "organic" on their product labels. Some of these businesses trick you into buying their products even though it is not purely organic. Organic farms are being bought out and disappearing from existence. The ones that are still in business are in danger of being the next ones out. Big companies have seen how many people are switching into the organic trend. According to Philip H. Howard, an assistant professor at Michigan State University says, “In some ways, organic is a victim of its own success. Big corporations see the trends and the opportunity to make money and profit.” In some cases, Organic farmers have no choice but to sell due to lack of funds and support. At this rate, even if we think we are buying organic food, we are still funding the same company we have been trying to avoid and not the independent organic farmers that really need our help. The best thing to do is research where the food is coming from and actually funding the local farmers at farmers markets and reputable organic stores.

According to A.L Kennedy on an article of Health benefits of Organic food vs. Processed Food, “Organic foods are grown or raised without chemical pesticides, antibiotics or hormones, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Organic farmers take advantage of natural methods of fertilizing soil and controlling weeds and insects. Certain organic foods, such as milk and tomatoes, may contain health benefits that make these organic foods a healthier choice than their processed or conventional counterparts.” There are more advantages to eating organic food than conventional food. By eating organic food, you are also eating more nutrition and an increased antioxidant content, because of the lack of pesticides in organic food. “Conventionally raised plants do not need to produce as many antioxidants because any plant-eating insects that might prey on them are controlled with insecticides,” (livestrong.com Health Benefits of Organic Foods Vs. Processed Foods). Organic food takes away the harmful risk of exposing their consumers from pesticide residue which have been known to cause health complications.

Undoubtedly, America's demand for convenience is at a grand scale. That's the reason why so many americans have the luxury of spending so much time wandering the aisles of grocery stores. Different as it may seem, most of these products we decide on are owned by the same company or one of the few that control a majority of the market. The more they control, the more they expand. Americans invest into fast food chains that these companies ship their products to and they get richer every day. By relying on convenience, consumers are encouraging a higher risk for future health complications. On the other hand, Organic farmers are struggling to keep alive. They are pushed to sell or go bankrupt or not make enough money to send their products out to the markets. Organic food is a healthier option as well as it is more nutritious despite it being more expensive. Buying organic is an investment into the environment. Consumers are buying food that have gone through a rigorous United States Department of Agriculture inspection. It is a purchase of food that has not been exposed to harmful pesticides and meats that have not been injected with growth hormones. It is a support to farmers who treat their animals with humane care as well as their workers. Most importantly, It is a step into the right direction of a healthier lifestyle for us and the future.

Works Cited

Harms, Roger , and Kenneth Berge. "Nutrition and healthy eating." Organic foods: Are they safer? More nutritious?. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 May 2014. <http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/organic-food/art-20043880>.

Pogash, Carol. "The Elders of Organic Farming." The New York Times. The New York Times, 24 Jan. 2014. Web. 27 May 2014. <http://www.nytimes.com/2014/01/25/business/the-elders-of-organic-farming.html?_r=0>.

Strom, Stephanie. "Has 'Organic' Been Oversized?." The New York Times. The New York Times, 6 July 2012. Web. 27 May 2014. <http://www.nytimes.com/2012/07/08/business/organic-food-purists-worry-about-big-companies-influence.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0>.

Schlosser, Eric. Fast food nation: the dark side of the all-American meal. Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 2001. Print.

Kennedy, A.L.. "Health Benefits of Organic Foods Vs. Processed Foods." LIVESTRONG.COM. LIVESTRONG.COM, 3 Nov. 2013. Web. 27 May 2014. <http://www.livestrong.com/article/258734-health-benefits-of-organic-foods-vs-processed-food/>.

(America has become oblivious to the obvious: Organic food is the best option. Do you ever wonder why certain foods and meats in grocery stores can afford to be so cheap? The demand in America for cheaper food has become so large that everyday consumers turn a blind eye to how their food is made and more about quantity over quality. But what do we really sacrifice? You are what you eat, but do you really know what you're eating? If you choose a brand other than organic, you're eating chemical fertilizers that your vegetables and plants grew in. You're in danger of consuming synthetic insecticides. Your meat has been injected with growth hormones while spending their whole lives packed with other animals with no room to breathe. Those chemical raised plants and vegetables? They have also been consumed by the meats you're about to consume. Consumers like us fund these corporations every day without a second thought. We make them richer so they can continue to buy more land and pollute the environment. With the land we help them buy, they put more and more organic farmers out of business and continue their reign to poison us little by little. By eating and purchasing conventional food products, we are putting ourselves and our future at risk. By taking a little time out and learning about how our food is made, perhaps we can make a wiser descision today that will make a world of difference for tomorrow.
      While shopping in a grocery store, you've probably noticed certain labels on meats and produce labeled "Organic" that is usually followed by a heavy pricetag compared to the items next to it that does not have an "Organic" label. The reason behind the pricetag is a world of difference between conventional food and organic food. Organic food is better for your health and the environment and it is worth the investment. After all, your body is the ultimate machine and it deserves the best care in the world. By buying organic products, you're also investing into a better environment as well as your local farmers. Organic products have to meet strict government standards to earn their label. Organic farmers invest heavily into their products by using natural fertilizers to organic feed to animals compared to antibiotics and growth hormones used by factory farmers. These farmers work hard everyday to supply American consumers with a healthier and more beneficial alternative. Even if the prices are higher than conventional farming, every cent goes back into your health and into our environment. According to an article on Mayo Clinic, organic farmers apply natural fertilizers such as compost for their soil and plants. They spray pesticides from natural sources and give animals organic feed. Allow them access to outdoors while maintaining a balanced diet in clean housing as a measure to minimize disease (Mayo Clinic). Organic farmers work very hard to maintain their farms while going through a very strict certification program from The U.S. Department of Agriculture to earn their organic label. They deserve every cent invested back into them.
     Although we know factory farming exists, we don't really think about what goes on behind those closed doors. Slaughterhouses owned by large corporations have come a long way from what they once were. Butchers were once paid a middle class salary and now companies hire immigrants for less than minimum wage. They intentionally hire workers who won't complain, do immense amounts of overtime with no extra pay, and compensate them very little for injuries if not at all. According to Eric Schlosser from the book Fast Food Nation,"From a purely economic point of view, injured workers are a drag on profits. They are less productive. Getting rid of them makes a deal of finacial sense, especially when new workers are readily available and inexpensive to train". Since the boom of fast food franchises such as Mcdonald's and Carl's Jr., factory farming has increased productivity to meet the demands of Americans who feed into their fast food crave due to their busy schedules. This increases the risk of workers who are fatigued from over work. Bacteria from fecal matter gets mixed in with the meat that gets delivered right on to your plate. Eric Schlosser states a quote from the Secretary of Agricuture Dan Glickman complained in 1997, "We cane fine ciruses for mistreating elephants, but we can't fine companies that violate food-safety standards." Regarding an Ecoli outbreak in February 1997. The U.S. Department of Agriculture are actually helpless in such cases where they can pull (example..) from shelves, but they cannot order the recall of food that has been known to be contaminated. By that time they even find out, It would be already to late.
     Large food industries have put organic farmers out of businesses as well as buying them out. According to ** a New York times article, "Coca-Cola, Cargill, ConAgra, General Mills, Kraft, and M&M Mars among them- have gobbled up most of the nation's organic food industry". Bear Naked and Kashi belong to "Kellog" and Naked Juice belongs to PepsiCo. There are also some things to look for in labels being misdirected. For example, "made with organic ingredients" are on the label but not used with the seal. Seventy percent or less organic ingredients cannot use the seal or the word "organic" on their product labels. Organic farms are being bought out and disappearing from existence. The ones that are still in business are in danger of being the next ones out. ** more examples and expaination of..**)
   

10. Topic Sentence Outline

Dr. Smith ENG 101: Blog Entry 10

Topic Sentence Outline

The following form should be filled out using complete sentences. You may cut and paste this form into your blog. Or, you may copy this form, type in it (of you are logged in) and link to your blog.

Title:

Introduction

1. Possible "Hook" to get the reader interested? : Health Is Wealth
2. Definition of Issue or Problem: Organic food vs. factory farming. How both of them are produced for the people.
3. Claim or Call to Action: People should invest more into organic food and produce!

Body Paragraph

1. Main Point, Idea, or Issue: Factory farming is hazardous to workers and to consumers.
2. Supporting Information: Highlight the unfair treatment of factory companies to workers and their neglect for food safety.
3. Supporting Details or Data:

Body Paragraph

4. Main Point, Idea, or Issue: How organic farmers treat their animals and products.
5. Supporting Information: What processes organic farmers go through to earn their label.
6. Supporting Details or Data:

Body Paragraph

7. Main Point, Idea, or Issue: The decline of Organic farms and farmers. Being bought out by major corporations.
8. Supporting Information: Lack of support from consumers causes organic farms to shut down or forced to sell of land and property to major corporations.
9. Supporting Details or Data:

Body Paragraph

10. Main Point, Idea, or Issue: Health over affordability. Is it better to invest into organic farming and farmers?
11. Supporting Information: Weighing out the options. It's better to invest into your own health. By supporting local farmers and purchasing organic produce, you invest into your community and future.
12. Supporting Details or Data:

9. Research (Organic)

     The general topic that has me very interested is Organic food and products. I want to narrow it down to why it's beneficial to everyone to start investing more money into organic farms and markets.  I plan to argue that organic products are more beneficial for consumer's health. The money being invested into them goes a long way into investing into our environment compared to foods being mass produced by major corporations. I have looked at how organic brands go through more rigorous inspections to earn their label. Organic farmers are being bought out by major corporations because of the lack of financial support. If this topic gets approved my next step would be to do more in depth research on how major companies get their products out to their consumers versus how organic farmers get their products out. Seeing if it's worth the extra money being spent by consumers on organic food. I may have a difficult time comparing the two. How I can make an argument and keep focused would be the brick wall i see myself hitting on this subject.


http://www.nytimes.com/2014/01/25/business/the-elders-of-organic-farming.html?_r=0



http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/organic-food/art-20043880

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/07/08/business/organic-food-purists-worry-about-big-companies-influence.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0

8. Midterm Revision: A Parent's Responsibilities

     It is the parent's responsibility to control what their children eat. Advertisements for fast food has been specifically targeted for children and have proved to be very successful. We live in a day and age where we have very little control of what is being advertised to us. When it comes to the fast food industry targeting our children, however, it is the parents responsibility to guide their child to make better choices. There are so many options from promoting healthy eating at home to educating everyone in the household about what they are actually putting in their mouth. The main goal for fast food restaurants is to sell and have consumers come back for more. Parents  should be able to recognize the "mental attack" towards their children and stand in the way of corporate manipulation. Parents are responsible for their children's safety as well as what they put in their system.
     "Synergy" is a marketing strategy pioneered by non other than Walt Disney himself. He aimed for children as his audience to attract them to his theme parks and products. Since the 1930's when synergy began, it has come a long way from advertising Mickey Mouse commercials to being adapted by Mcdonalds, shoe companies, and clothing lines. To make children be a loyal customer at a young age and carry that loyalty through adulthood is the concept that synergy was based on. The parents have the responsibility to recognize this manipulation and say no to their children if necessary. Ultimately, it is the parents who will end up buying products for their children if they cave in. That's what these companies are hoping for.
      Parents need to monitor their children's television viewing time and what they watch. Our world revolves around television and the majority of advertisements are being displayed right there in everyone's living room. What better way for advertisers to take advantage than at the comfort of your own home? On page 46, Eric Schlosser states, "The typical American child spends twenty-one hours a week watching television." What a great window of opportunity to target children! Children cannot see the difference between being exploited and entertained. The parents can! It's their responsibility to either turn off the advertisements being forced into their child's brain or at least limit their time on watching television.
     There are so many responsibilities to take on as a parent and promoting a healthy environment is one of them. Children learn from those around them but mostly from their parents. With the convenience of fast food restaurants, it's much easier to go out and get fed by unknown hands than it is to bother with groceries, cooking, and cleaning. That takes away time from being spent with family members. That's teaching our children that eating out is better than being with the ones you love. By promoting healthy eating and cooking at home, we can teach our children to cook for themselves. Anyone can go out and buy the same products over and over again, but nobody can cook the way a parent can for their family. As a parent caring for what their children eat, you are taking responsibility and care for our child's needs.
     The fast food industry and major corporations invest billions of dollars to targeting children all around the world to buy their products. It has happened to you, me, and will not stop anytime soon. You see products advertised on the subway, sides of MTA busses, almost everywhere you go as soon as you step outside your house. Realize that children all over the world see the same thing. The purpose is to target you and children all over the world so they can make money for generations to come. That's all the more work parents have to know about what's being sold to them and their families. Teaching them that the food being advertised to them is just frozen packaged food made at a New Jersey turnpike. A parent should let their children know that the food that looks delicious on television might cause them all kinds of health complications in the future. Saying no when you know it is not right for them to watch extreme amounts of television is never bad. That's being a responsible parent and it is the parents who are responsible for their children's well being.

7. Meatrix Issue: Organic

      I find myself wandering the aisles of the supermarket almost everyday. A lot of factors go in my head but the biggest factor is affordability. I usually end up buying something just because it was on sale as I know most Americans do. Organic grown meats, vegetables, and dairy have always been too expensive for me as I see them and constantly walk away after seeing the prices. After seeing the Meatrix, I wonder, what am I really sacrificing? Cheaper food over my health? In the long run, being in the hospital is going to cost me more than saving a couple dollars here and there on mass produced groceries. It's time to look at Oganic food under a microscope and really see why the value of it outweighs the consequence.
     According to Sustainable Table "Organic Agriculture", Organic food has a high standard to be labeled organic. They don't use antibiotics for their animals for human consumption and actually let their animals breathe fresh air instead of being locked up in stalls and containers for their whole lives. What we usually get in the supermarket for cheaper is usually the animals that are trapped in their own feces for their whole lives while being surrounded by bacteria that could potentially kill you. That right there affects everyone in any community. Also the more money we give to these major corporations, the less likely these Organic farms will stay in business. The more these corporations are in demand, the more they demand from our community and land by polluting it with major waste products into our water and greenhouse gasses that destroy our environment.
      Eventually this affects every single person on earth one way or another. I know we all can't afford to buy Organic food every day (millionaires not included) but we can make wiser choices into investing in our hard working local farmers here and there. Every little bit helps keep them in business, keep us healthier, and balance out a little of the negative of what these major corporations do on a regular basis. By investing in Organic farms, we do less damage to our own health by not taking in antibiotics and artificial hormones. If everyone pitches in, we can save an Organic farm from being bought out by these major corporations from turning into just another factory for the masses.

6. Brand Identification

      One brand that has always played a significant role in my life is Lacoste. My earliest memory of the brand was when my aunt would always wear it. I was curious at first until i noticed everyone wearing it. To me it was just a nice polo shirt made of different colors and had the alligator logo to the chest. But I began noticing that it was a brand of "high status" and "luxury". When someone would wear It, they'd question It's authenticity and feel the fabric as if it was something short of a miracle. That got me curious as to what it was. In a way, I became curious and eventually liked the brand.
     The main reason I liked Lacoste was because of it's price tag. No matter where I went, there was never a sale for the shirts. The jeans were always $150 and over and the shirts, no matter how simple were always more than $80. When I bought my first shirt, I wanted to wear It carefully and always looked after It with fragile care. When I bought my first pair of jeans, I wore It so much I wanted the world to "notice". It made me feel rich when I wasn't. Something about the brand gave me a sense of self confidence I never had before. Then I branched out to Lacoste cologne and since the brand was familiar, I've grown familiar to purchasing It faithfully.
     In a way, that sense of fake high status just because of a name brand you wear is stupid. Yet we all continue to do It from sneakers to suits, because the name brand tells you how much It's worth. To people who "know" the price of the brand and how it's made, we make ourselves show our worth by what we wear. What we wear conveys our personality, our confidence, and our portrays our inner thoughts. No matter what, everyday people judge you but what you wear and sometimes wearing clothes that are likable to the public helps your mind block out any negativity. Some people care more than others, but to me, Lacoste is that name brand that I wouldn't mind investing in just because I know what I'm buying.

5. Summary Response Essay

     It's funny how time changes and things that weren't relevant to us then are obvious to us now. Fast food has become a large part of our economy as well as our everyday living. Almost every friend I have Is or has worked for the restaurant industry. Shopping malls have closed and re-opened as new fast food chains open up and become the next big craze. It's as If almost everyone Is competing to open up the new fast food with a "twist" and the public eats It up like it was a free buffet giveaway. In the book, "Fast Food Nation," the author Eric Schlosser mentions the birth of fast food from small random hot dog carts to Mcdonald's as an empire today. The founding fathers of what we see as normal Is anything but. What I found interesting is the proof of "Synergy", the marketing tool that Walt Disney and Ray Kroc (Mcdonald's) used to target kids in advertisements in the 1930's is now being used by the phone, oil, automobile, and clothing companies (pg 40). Targeting children works and we are living proof of that.
     A couple of months ago, my girlfriend and I visited Disney World in Orlando, Florida. It was beautiful! As soon as I stepped in the park, I was a kid again! Everyone from around the world gathered together to share a fantasy experience with everyone else that day. After an hour of basking in the moment, I begin to notice the countless strollers parked in a certain area of every park. I then realize that the majority of people that visit Disney World are families with two or more children. That's an average of $100 per person on tickets alone. Food Is about $20 and snacks range from $7-15, so that's at least around $130 per person (drinks not included). I've witnessed the prime example of synergy in that park and how it works for Disney World's benefit. They make so much money off people just to be in the park alone and do so well to entertain children and families,
that their children will probably bring their children in the future to give Disney a good chunk of their savings.
     Fast food has always been a huge part of my life. When I was growing up in the Philippines, there's this fast food restaurant called, "Jollibee", that was similar to America's Mcdonald's. Eating their food was my childhood. At that time, It gave everyone a sense of "status", to be able to afford the food most families can't. I then moved to New York and start my first job in Queens for KFC. It's a big difference working for the fast food industry when you've been raised to love the food. Making It for customers is a complete 360. I've gained weight while working around the abundance of fried chicken. Never have I been so stressed that even though I feel as If I've worked over 40 hours, my paychecks would be barely $200 a week. I had to borrow money from friends before my next paycheck and I'd use about half of it to pay them back. I was always broke in that employment. We were all over worked and underpaid and till this day I'm surprised I stayed in that company for a year. It did teach me a great lesson in life. To never work for the fast food industry ever again.
     No matter what happens in the future, I most likely will eat fast food to satisfy  my cravings. Fast food has been a huge part of my life and even though they intentionally target children, having them around for a part of my childhood wasn't that bad. Fast food has established a sort of familiar feel of everyday life. Most people I know can relate to the food I've eaten. Fast food has also built a sense of community when it comes to convenience and sense of nostalgia. As an adult however, I can make wiser choices for myself, as Eric Schlosser says on pg.10, "As the old saying goes: You are what you eat." Is an old saying I believe in. Even though fast food is convenient for all, It doesn't mean you have to eat it everyday. Our body Is a temple and you're the only one who can take care of yourself.

4. Your Trusted Friends

     In the book, Fast Food Nation by Eric Shlosser, Chapter two describes how Mcdonald's and Walt Disney appeals to kids and It's definitely on purpose. " Although the fast food chains annually spend $3 billion on television advertising, their marketing efforts directed at children extend far beyond such conventional ads, " Eric Slosser says, as he uses logos to tell us true facts behind the fast food industry. Not only does the author shine light on the fast food's hidden agenda, he tells us more facts about the free toys we all used to get win happy meals as well as the McDonald's playgrounds we all used to play in. It's all in the facade that they want us to think they are our "trusted friends." Even though It seems America has seen through all the advertisement intent, we still can't help what we've been raised to think through television and what we see as something "happy" and take comfort in food that makes us "happy". This chapter also describes how fast food advertisement has entered school advertisement with the help of soda companies.  

3. Summarizing Arguments (Founding Fathers)

     In the Founding Fathers chapter of Eric Schlosser's book, "Fast Food Nation", he mainly describes Carl N. Karcher's success as a rags to riches story as well as other fast food franchises. The author uses pathos to appeal to the reader's emotions by making us "attached" to the founder of Carl's Jr. restaurant. He started from working for his uncle, earning enough for his own hotdog cart, then a few more, then saved enough money for his own restaurant. The author shows Carl's ups and downs throughout decades of competition and struggle. At the end of five decades since he started the business, Carl was betrayed by his own board members quoting, "one of the saddest days of my life." Through his struggle the author makes the readers like him more. Carl eventually gets his company back after engineering a takeover which makes me feel like If he can do it, I can.

2. The Meaning Of Food In My Life

     As far as I can remember, food has always been a major part of my life. When my family would get together for a reunion In the Philippines, you would think we were cooking for a whole village. Cookies and chocolates for the children, sodas never running out, and after the feast had finished, we'd have so many leftovers, we'd have to borrow a neighbor's fridge.We never ran out of food in my house which may explain why I was obese In my younger years. My health got so bad, I had high blood pressure when I was 15.
      Now I try to watch what  I eat since I don't have the luxury of comfort food on a daily basis. I've been working in a restaurant since I was 16 and what I can take from that Is there's a reason the food Is so good. Because It's usually not good for you. I've gained weight while working in the industry while eating the food out of convenience. I've also lost weight by eating food I would cook outside of the restuarant and bringing it to work.
      When I shop for groceries, I usually wander the aisles debating what Items I need for the day and not to buy too much as It usually goes to waste. For example, today I ended up buying hamburger meat for pasta, some cheese, and fruit juice. While debating, money always comes to play and I end up minimizing my list to what I need for the day. Some days I miss living with my parents, because they would always load up food from Costco and never run out of anything. It's funny how we take the little things for granted.
     I'm very grateful for the food industry as It has helped me financially as well as making wiser discisions in what I eat. Ever since the company I work for has come out with calorie counts for each Item on our menu, I've been able to watch what I put in myself as well as curb my cravings for food I never used to think twice about. I'm very fortunate to be around food for a major part of my life for It has taught me to take better care of myself. I see how food Is cooked, the effects It has on my body, and what I can do to make better food descisions for myself In the future.

   
   

1. Is America's Food Supply Safe?

     In this passage by, Dr. David Acheson (Ass. Commissioner FDA), claims  that the FDA works very hard and meticulously to keep America's food safe. Working with Federal, State, and even consumers to insure their products to be safer than it already is. He also points out that imported foods are being closely monitored by food companies as well as border inspectors to make sure that the food we get from other countries are as safe as they can be.
     Dr. David Acheson points out all major aspects of safety, from chemical contamination to educating consumers to prevent any other types of contamination on food. Also, to be able to catch problems early on to fix or prevent the issue from ever happening again.
     I've worked for the food industry for about 10 years now and what I can relate to is when the F.D.A. takes action on teaching consumers. As a bartender, I know all the strict regulations they enforce on us. From behind the kitchen to bar fruit purees, and believe me, it's a very stressful process. Our restaurant always fears their inspections and makes sure everything is clean, sanitized, and stored properly for when they do arrive.
      Being raised in a third world country, I have seen all the wrong ways to serve and prepare food as well as feeling the consequence. I have been the victim of a bad case of food-borne illness and It was on of the worst days of my life. Through the pain of past experience, I've become more appreciative of the F.D.A's efforts of improving food safety to the public. Some countries don't have even have that luxury. Everyday they work better for the public. There may be outbreaks here and there as we see on the news but I've always seen them take all necessary actions to keep America's food supply safe.