In Arizona Eugene Foster is being charged with the sexual exploitation of a minor after texting a naked picture of his girlfriend's daughter to 40 contacts in the daughter's cell phone. Foster found the photo on her phone and was trying to teach her a lesson by sending the photo to her contacts. Law enforcement does not believe that Foster was intentionally trying to exploit his girlfriend's daughter.
Foster went too far by trying to teach this child a lesson in this manner. He definitely needs a lesson in parenting but I think charging him with the sexual exploitation of a minor is a bit drastic, especially because law enforcement investigators found that it was not intentional. This could essentially ruin his life and he could be forced to register as a sex offender for making a terrible parenting decision. Yes he handled the whole situation inappropriately but I don't agree that the punishment fits the "crime".
Friday, December 9, 2011
Women Charged with Stealing Neighbor's Christmas Decorations
In Sweetwater, FL two women are charged with stealing Christmas decorations from their neighbor's yard. Surveillance camera's captured video of the criminal's taking the decorations from the victim's lawn. The victim called the police after spotting her decorations in a neighbor's yard less than a block away. The criminals are being charged with grand theft as the value of the items that were stolen is more than $500.
Yet another pair of dumb criminals. As if getting caught in the act on video wasn't enough, they put the decorations up in their own yard less than a block away! How low does someone have to be to steal Christmas decorations? It's clear that the criminal's didn't steal them to sell them to make money, they put them up in their yard. I just can't imagine what these thieves were thinking.
The holidays bring out the best in people, and unfortunately they can also bring out the worst.
Yet another pair of dumb criminals. As if getting caught in the act on video wasn't enough, they put the decorations up in their own yard less than a block away! How low does someone have to be to steal Christmas decorations? It's clear that the criminal's didn't steal them to sell them to make money, they put them up in their yard. I just can't imagine what these thieves were thinking.
The holidays bring out the best in people, and unfortunately they can also bring out the worst.
Game addiction costs Alec Baldwin his airline seat
CNN posted an article about celebrity Alec Baldwin being removed from a flight because he refused to turn off his electronic device while the plane sat idly waiting to take off. It is rumored that Baldwin was playing Words With Friends and after the flight attendant asked him to power off his device that he went into the bathroom to finish his game. The article further speculates that Baldwin was kicked off the plane because he refused to power off his device.
I have mixed emotions about this article. On one hand, a rule is rule. The rules are no electronic devices. I think the majority of the population is aware of the airlines rules regarding electronic devices. If you are on their flight you must follow their rules regardless if you are a celebrity or not. The commercial airlines tell you that your devices might put out a signal that may interfere with the airplane's equipment and cause something to malfunction. I have flown privately and have never had to turn off my electronic device on a private flight. The company I previously worked for had two private jets and 4 pilots on staff who were all previous commercial pilots. These pilots told me that electronic devices do not, nor will not interfere with the airplane's equipment. If that is the case, why are these commercial airlines so controlling over passenger's cell phones? Perhaps it's because they want you to use their phones that charge $6 a minute.
Regardless of the reason, Baldwin didn't follow the rules and suffered the consequences.
I have mixed emotions about this article. On one hand, a rule is rule. The rules are no electronic devices. I think the majority of the population is aware of the airlines rules regarding electronic devices. If you are on their flight you must follow their rules regardless if you are a celebrity or not. The commercial airlines tell you that your devices might put out a signal that may interfere with the airplane's equipment and cause something to malfunction. I have flown privately and have never had to turn off my electronic device on a private flight. The company I previously worked for had two private jets and 4 pilots on staff who were all previous commercial pilots. These pilots told me that electronic devices do not, nor will not interfere with the airplane's equipment. If that is the case, why are these commercial airlines so controlling over passenger's cell phones? Perhaps it's because they want you to use their phones that charge $6 a minute.
Regardless of the reason, Baldwin didn't follow the rules and suffered the consequences.
Friday, December 2, 2011
Cat reunited with owner after 18-months
Ely News posted an article about a woman who was reunited with her cat after it had been missing for 18 months. Theo the cat was found 136 miles away from home thanks to a couple that found him in their garden and took him to their local veterinarian to see if he was micro chipped. The owner thinks her can was stolen and a neighbor confirmed that they had saw Theo in the back of a van before he went missing. The owner put up fliers and posted an ad in the paper but gave up hope of finding Theo after a few months. After 18 months, Theo and owner are now happily reunited.
This was great story. I'm happy that Theo and owner were reunited. I believe that having a microchips in your pets is a necessity. The cat and owner in this article probably would have never been reunited had it not been for the microchip.
I have seen some horrendous things regarding animals at the hands of their irresponsible owners, so I am always glad to hear stories like this.
This was great story. I'm happy that Theo and owner were reunited. I believe that having a microchips in your pets is a necessity. The cat and owner in this article probably would have never been reunited had it not been for the microchip.
I have seen some horrendous things regarding animals at the hands of their irresponsible owners, so I am always glad to hear stories like this.
Carjackers foiled by stick shift
In Tampa Bay two attempted carjackers were stopped in their tracks when the vehicle they were trying to steal had a manual transmission. A couple was dropping off a work truck at their place of employment when two of America's dumbest criminals came on either side of the vehicle with guns and ordered them out and wanted cash and their cell phones. As the criminals entered the vehicle they were able to start it and that's as far as they got since neither of them could drive a stick shift. The men fled the vehicle on foot. Police reported the men only got the cell phone and no money.
Good thing for the victims that these guys were idiots and nobody was hurt. Hopefully the thieves learned a lesson and won't attempt anything like this again. The men haven't been caught yet, but it's probably just a matter of time before their stupidity lands them in jail.
Good thing for the victims that these guys were idiots and nobody was hurt. Hopefully the thieves learned a lesson and won't attempt anything like this again. The men haven't been caught yet, but it's probably just a matter of time before their stupidity lands them in jail.
First grader faces sexual harassment charges...
A Boston elementary school first grader is under investigation for sexual assault for punching another another male child in the groin area. The mother of the child who is being investigated said that her son was acting out of self defense as the other boy choked him and stolen his gloves. School officials are considering this sexual assault because the punch was to the groin area.
This is absurd. Even if it wasn't self defense I don't think it's appropriate to investigate a six year old for sexual assault. I am not saying the child shouldn't be punished, but I think sexual assault is a too drastic for this situation. A simple punishment for fighting and teaching them the proper way to handle similar situations is sufficient.
The mother said if her child is going to be investigated for sexual assault, then other child should be investigated for attempted murder since he was choking him. If the school is going to be that drastic with punishments then perhaps they should charge the other boy with attempted murder, it's only fair.
This is absurd. Even if it wasn't self defense I don't think it's appropriate to investigate a six year old for sexual assault. I am not saying the child shouldn't be punished, but I think sexual assault is a too drastic for this situation. A simple punishment for fighting and teaching them the proper way to handle similar situations is sufficient.
The mother said if her child is going to be investigated for sexual assault, then other child should be investigated for attempted murder since he was choking him. If the school is going to be that drastic with punishments then perhaps they should charge the other boy with attempted murder, it's only fair.
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Attempted murder charges filed over eviction rage
Landlord John Miller is being held without bail after using his bulldozer to crush a mobile home he was renting out. The tenants were two adult females and four children who were home when Miller showed up with the bulldozer. The tenants told him the children were inside and that didn't stop Miller from crushing the home. Miller also chased the tenants around the property after destroying the home.
Sounds like this guy has some anger issues. Instead of waiting for their eviction on December 1st, he decides to go ahead and demolish the home with the tenants inside. According to the article the tenants were not past due on rent but there was a dispute over how a table was used at a garage sale. So this guy is facing attempted murder charges over a table.
Landlords do all kinds of checking on possible tenants, perhaps tenants should start checking on possible landlords.
Sounds like this guy has some anger issues. Instead of waiting for their eviction on December 1st, he decides to go ahead and demolish the home with the tenants inside. According to the article the tenants were not past due on rent but there was a dispute over how a table was used at a garage sale. So this guy is facing attempted murder charges over a table.
Landlords do all kinds of checking on possible tenants, perhaps tenants should start checking on possible landlords.
Friday, November 18, 2011
Man gets probation for pushing wife off cliff
In Las Vegas a 63 year old man was sentenced to five years of probation for pushing his wife off a twenty foot cliff into a lake. He initially faced attempted murder charges but ended up pleading guilty to a misdemeanor assault charge. This case was handled in federal court since he pushed her into Lake Mead Recreation Area. According to court records someone on a personal watercraft picked up his wife and took her to call 911.
He was wrong for pushing her off the cliff, whether he meant harm or not.
The article isn't very detailed and doesn't state whether this was done with intent to harm his wife or not. There is a quote from a judge that he thinks it wasn't out of fun. If someone had to rescue her and calling 911 doesn't sound like an angry wife that was the butt of a practical joke. It's not like they are spring chickens, they are in their 60's. I doubt they were up on the cliff pushing each other around.
I can't imagine my dad pushing my mother off a cliff as a practical joke, if so he better hope she doesn't make it, haha!
He was wrong for pushing her off the cliff, whether he meant harm or not.
The article isn't very detailed and doesn't state whether this was done with intent to harm his wife or not. There is a quote from a judge that he thinks it wasn't out of fun. If someone had to rescue her and calling 911 doesn't sound like an angry wife that was the butt of a practical joke. It's not like they are spring chickens, they are in their 60's. I doubt they were up on the cliff pushing each other around.
I can't imagine my dad pushing my mother off a cliff as a practical joke, if so he better hope she doesn't make it, haha!
Walkable Roller-Coaster Sculpture Opens in Germany
Wired.com posted this article about a walkable roller coaster sculpture that was created in Germany. German artists Heike Mutter and Ulrich Genth created this 69 foot tall sculpture at the top of a hill made of toxic zinc slag that was left over from local mining. With the sculpture being on top of the hill it actually puts visitors 148 feet high. Unfortunately the loop is unusable, however the rest is usable and is about 2 miles long.
Part of the article was a bit offensive but somewhat true. The article says "no fast-food concessions, and you have to walk it yourself. The Tiger & Turtle 'roller-coaster' would be laughed out of the U.S" Not everyone in the U.S. is obese and inactive but that certainly is how other countries are perceiving us.
I thought this was a cool sculpture and if it was here, I would definitely be checking it out, not laughing it out!
Part of the article was a bit offensive but somewhat true. The article says "no fast-food concessions, and you have to walk it yourself. The Tiger & Turtle 'roller-coaster' would be laughed out of the U.S" Not everyone in the U.S. is obese and inactive but that certainly is how other countries are perceiving us.
I thought this was a cool sculpture and if it was here, I would definitely be checking it out, not laughing it out!
Babysitter found on Craigslist charged with sexual assault
Steven P. Knox of Webster, TX is free on $30,000 bond after being arrested and charged of aggravated sexual assault of a child under the age of 14.Knox allegedly posted an ad on Craiglist offering babysitting services. The child's mother said she found Knox on Craigslist and allowed him to babysit her three children for a few months.
I'm not sure who I am more angered at, the pedophile or the mother. Definitely the pedophile.
What would possess someone to go looking on Craigslist for a babysitter? Perhaps if they had done a background check and had verifiable references I might consider it, but Craigslist would definitely not be my first choice. I am not blaming the mother for what happened, nobody would ever want this to happen to their child, but she needs to uphold a certain level of responsibility for her children to protect their safety.
After the "Craiglist killer" incidents I would think that people would be more careful, you can bet I won't be going on Craigslist to find a babysitter for my children.
I'm not sure who I am more angered at, the pedophile or the mother. Definitely the pedophile.
What would possess someone to go looking on Craigslist for a babysitter? Perhaps if they had done a background check and had verifiable references I might consider it, but Craigslist would definitely not be my first choice. I am not blaming the mother for what happened, nobody would ever want this to happen to their child, but she needs to uphold a certain level of responsibility for her children to protect their safety.
After the "Craiglist killer" incidents I would think that people would be more careful, you can bet I won't be going on Craigslist to find a babysitter for my children.
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Conflict of interest between Everett charity, telemarketing co.
KOMO News reported a story about a telemarketing company who raises money for the Breast Cancer Prevention Fund (BCPF). According to the article this company asks for donations starting at $180 and prospective donors are told that the $180 will help two women get mammograms. Prospective donor, Carl Hu, has two members of his family who have survived breast cancer. Hu was ready to donate until he researched the company. He discovered the founder of the BCPF is also the owner of the telemarketing company who is soliciting these donations. The BCPF has paid $3.5 million for mammograms after raising $17.5 million. The charity paid the telemarketing company $10.5 million after expenses. Nobody could explain the whereabouts of the money nor could the owner/founder or board members be reached for comment.
I am very disappointed and angry at the actions of the the owner of the company.
It is very sad that someone is profiting so much money off of donations. The people who did donate weren't aware not all of their donation was going to the fund so they were misled. The BCPF did help a lot of women get mammograms but could have helped so many more with the unexplained $10.5 million. I hate the fact that the founder of a non-profit organization is profiting of the very same organization. Something is terribly wrong with this scenario, there is definitely a conflict of interest here.
KOMO said at the end of the article that the owner/founder is under investigation by the attorney general's office and the IRS.
I am very disappointed and angry at the actions of the the owner of the company.
It is very sad that someone is profiting so much money off of donations. The people who did donate weren't aware not all of their donation was going to the fund so they were misled. The BCPF did help a lot of women get mammograms but could have helped so many more with the unexplained $10.5 million. I hate the fact that the founder of a non-profit organization is profiting of the very same organization. Something is terribly wrong with this scenario, there is definitely a conflict of interest here.
KOMO said at the end of the article that the owner/founder is under investigation by the attorney general's office and the IRS.
Swedish chef in 'freak' saucepan accident
The Local posted an article about a chef who was injured during an internship at a restaurant in Sweden. The chef was placed in this position by an employment agency that is run by a state agency. He was trying to put a large saucepan in the refrigerator during the lunch rush and slipped and let go of the pan. His other hand got caught in the pan and as he fell to the floor the weight of the pan severed a muscle in his upper arm. After ample rest and surgery, medical professionals have concluded that he will suffer from a permanent injury and physical disability for the rest of his life. The chef filed a disability claim as a result of the outcome and will receive $2,800.
This is an unfortunate injury. I am curious about safety regulations in Sweden.
I wonder what was in that pan that was so heavy is severed a muscle in his arm. I feel bad that the chef is permanently disable due to a freak accident. The article stated that the state compensated him $2,800 but isn't clear if that is a one time payment or a monthly payment. I hope for his sake it is a monthly amount as his career is certainly worth more than $2,800.
No matter how careful you are accidents still occur.
This is an unfortunate injury. I am curious about safety regulations in Sweden.
I wonder what was in that pan that was so heavy is severed a muscle in his arm. I feel bad that the chef is permanently disable due to a freak accident. The article stated that the state compensated him $2,800 but isn't clear if that is a one time payment or a monthly payment. I hope for his sake it is a monthly amount as his career is certainly worth more than $2,800.
No matter how careful you are accidents still occur.
On Veteran’s Day, Romney suggests ‘voucher’ system for vet benefits
David Edwards posted an article on The Raw Story about Republican presidential candidate, Mitt Romney. Romney told a group of veterans that he might introduce "private sector competition" for veteran's health care benefits by possibly creating a "voucher" system. Basically each soldier would get so much money attributed to them and they would have the choice of using that money for private or government based health care.
I think this is a great idea. While the article was rather vague regarding the details, I would like to learn more about this possibility.
Being a disabled veteran, having the choice of where to be treated is very appealing to me. The level of care that I have received from VA health care facilities is not acceptable and the way some veteran's are treated is even more unacceptable. I have four herniated/bulging discs in my upper back and the VA won't perform surgery because I am too young by their standards. I was told by the surgeon who was extremely short and rude with me (during the visit I had to drive four hours to get to) that "This isn't a simple tooth extraction, it's a very complicated surgery. You should look forward to a lifetime of chronic pain." I have to accept his diagnosis, getting a second opinion is not a possibility. That is why I welcome this proposition with open arms.
I would love to be able to choose my doctor and be treated respectfully instead of being demeaned.
I think this is a great idea. While the article was rather vague regarding the details, I would like to learn more about this possibility.
Being a disabled veteran, having the choice of where to be treated is very appealing to me. The level of care that I have received from VA health care facilities is not acceptable and the way some veteran's are treated is even more unacceptable. I have four herniated/bulging discs in my upper back and the VA won't perform surgery because I am too young by their standards. I was told by the surgeon who was extremely short and rude with me (during the visit I had to drive four hours to get to) that "This isn't a simple tooth extraction, it's a very complicated surgery. You should look forward to a lifetime of chronic pain." I have to accept his diagnosis, getting a second opinion is not a possibility. That is why I welcome this proposition with open arms.
I would love to be able to choose my doctor and be treated respectfully instead of being demeaned.
Friday, November 4, 2011
Wounded elephant walks again, thanks to jumbo-sized false foot
MSNBC posted an article about an elephant who received a prosthetic foot. The elephant was found in the Cambodian jungle in 2007. He was near death and his foot mangled from a poachers trap. The elephant lost six to eight inches of his leg. Because of the prosthetic leg he can never return to the wild but will live a full life at the
I was saddened by the cruelty of the poachers but this story did have a pleasant outcome.
It is sad that animals are treated this way. The fact that they were able to make a prosthetic foot for this baby elephant and train him to walk on it is amazing. There is hope for other animals in similar situations that fall prey to poachers
I believe we should respect all animals as no animal deserves to suffer.
I was saddened by the cruelty of the poachers but this story did have a pleasant outcome.
It is sad that animals are treated this way. The fact that they were able to make a prosthetic foot for this baby elephant and train him to walk on it is amazing. There is hope for other animals in similar situations that fall prey to poachers
I believe we should respect all animals as no animal deserves to suffer.
Plumber finds $20,000 in an air duct, turns it in
WFTV channel 9 ran a story about a plumber who found twenty thousand dollars in an air duct and returned it. According to the story a widow that previously resided in the home had stashed money all over the house and forgot one of her hiding places. The plumber said he was scared when he found it and did what he believes everyone should do, the right thing.
I respect the plumber in this story for doing the right thing. I think the previous owner who stashed the money may have been a little crazy though.
First of all who hides thousands of dollars in foil packets in random places around their home? Drug dealers and crazy elderly, that's who! What if the house burned down? All of this widow's money would be gone. It's sad that she couldn't trust a bank enough to protect her money. Thank goodness they hired an honest plumber or they may never had found that money.
It's refreshing to hear stories like this and I hope this man's honesty was rewarded.
I respect the plumber in this story for doing the right thing. I think the previous owner who stashed the money may have been a little crazy though.
First of all who hides thousands of dollars in foil packets in random places around their home? Drug dealers and crazy elderly, that's who! What if the house burned down? All of this widow's money would be gone. It's sad that she couldn't trust a bank enough to protect her money. Thank goodness they hired an honest plumber or they may never had found that money.
It's refreshing to hear stories like this and I hope this man's honesty was rewarded.
Kardashian Sham Wedding Accusations Sting
The LA Times
The LA Times posted an article about the Kardashian divorce. The article talks about the divorce and quotes Kim Kardashian as saying her marriage wasn't a sham to make money for a television show. There are also quotes from family members stating the same thing and that they support Kim.
Honestly I don't care if Kim Kardashian is getting a divorce after 72 days. What angers me is that not everyone has the same rights regarding marriage.
Kim is quoted as saying her marriage wasn't a hoax to make money, but who would come out and say it was. After all she did profit over seventeen million dollars from the wedding. She can get married for 72 days and Brittney Spears for 72 hours, yet we must protect the sanctity of marriage between a man and a woman. This makes me angry!
Last night at the end of the Chelsea Lately show she had an invitation and menu from the Kardashian wedding and said that she is auctioning them off on EBay and all the proceeds are going to be donated to the Human Rights Campaign, activists for marriage equality. Go Chelsea!
The LA Times posted an article about the Kardashian divorce. The article talks about the divorce and quotes Kim Kardashian as saying her marriage wasn't a sham to make money for a television show. There are also quotes from family members stating the same thing and that they support Kim.
Honestly I don't care if Kim Kardashian is getting a divorce after 72 days. What angers me is that not everyone has the same rights regarding marriage.
Kim is quoted as saying her marriage wasn't a hoax to make money, but who would come out and say it was. After all she did profit over seventeen million dollars from the wedding. She can get married for 72 days and Brittney Spears for 72 hours, yet we must protect the sanctity of marriage between a man and a woman. This makes me angry!
Last night at the end of the Chelsea Lately show she had an invitation and menu from the Kardashian wedding and said that she is auctioning them off on EBay and all the proceeds are going to be donated to the Human Rights Campaign, activists for marriage equality. Go Chelsea!
Friday, October 28, 2011
Atheists' Billboard Falsely Attributes Quote To Thomas Jefferson
The Huffington Post reported on an atheist group, called Backyard Skeptics, who posted a billboard with a picture of Thomas Jefferson with the quote "I do not find in Christianity one redeeming feature. It is founded on fables and mythology." After research there is no solid proof that Jefferson ever said that. No correspondence can be located with those words on it by Jefferson.The Backyard Skeptics say that the purpose of the billboard was to "expunge the myth that this is a Christian nation," as well as to "share the idea that you can be good and do good without a religion or god."
I found this article a little funny.
I'm not going to express my views on religion, but in light of our recent assignments I thought this was fitting as this group will probably be considered as not having any credibility after this. Why wouldn't they research the quotes before they spent money to have them plastered all over town? The group says that they posted these to share the idea that one can be good or do good without religion or god, yet they misrepresented a quote and said it was from a former president without having any factual evidence. This group is probably going to have a hard time being taken seriously after this and I am sure they will have a long road ahead to try and rebuild their credibility as a result of this one error.
If I ever post anything on a billboard, you better believe it's going to be researched!
I found this article a little funny.
I'm not going to express my views on religion, but in light of our recent assignments I thought this was fitting as this group will probably be considered as not having any credibility after this. Why wouldn't they research the quotes before they spent money to have them plastered all over town? The group says that they posted these to share the idea that one can be good or do good without religion or god, yet they misrepresented a quote and said it was from a former president without having any factual evidence. This group is probably going to have a hard time being taken seriously after this and I am sure they will have a long road ahead to try and rebuild their credibility as a result of this one error.
If I ever post anything on a billboard, you better believe it's going to be researched!
Mother Accused Of Keeping 2 Children In Wire Dog Kennel
AOL has posted a story that occurred in North Platte, Nebraska regarding four children that were removed from a trailer home where a 3 year old and 5 year old were kept in a wire dog kennel. When officers arrived at the trailer home there was a stench of urine and found trash and animal feces throughout the trailer. There was a small child's mattress in the dog kennel and the door to the kennel was wired shut. The mother claims she put them in there at night to sleep to keep them from climbing out of her trailer through a window in the middle of the night. All the adults living in the trailer were arrested and charged with first-degree false imprisonment, felony child abuse and misdemeanor child abuse, based on the condition of the house. The kids are now in state custody.
This story makes me very angry. I am sympathetic toward the children who didn't know any better and probably miss their mother who mistreated them.
I don't understand how anyone could treat another human being this way, let alone their own children. To make them sleep in a dog kennel is terrible, then on top of that, the mother would wire the door shut so they couldn't get out. I don't even make my dogs sleep in their kennel because I feel bad for them and I certainly don't wire the door shut if they do have to go in there. Those poor children were also subjected to live in filth. Who leaves animal feces and trash all over their house? It's sad to say but maybe they were safer in the kennel where they were running around in the animal feces.
I hope the adults involved in this case are severely punished for they irresponsible actions.
This story makes me very angry. I am sympathetic toward the children who didn't know any better and probably miss their mother who mistreated them.
I don't understand how anyone could treat another human being this way, let alone their own children. To make them sleep in a dog kennel is terrible, then on top of that, the mother would wire the door shut so they couldn't get out. I don't even make my dogs sleep in their kennel because I feel bad for them and I certainly don't wire the door shut if they do have to go in there. Those poor children were also subjected to live in filth. Who leaves animal feces and trash all over their house? It's sad to say but maybe they were safer in the kennel where they were running around in the animal feces.
I hope the adults involved in this case are severely punished for they irresponsible actions.
A Little Imperfection for That Smile?
The New York Times published an article about Japanese women who are paying to have their straight teeth disarranged while in the United States we are paying to straighten, whiten and repair our teeth. Japanese men apparently find snaggle teeth and fangs attractive. In Japan crooked teeth are considered endearing and show that a woman is not perfect, therefore making her more approachable by men.
When I first heard about this I laughed and thought it was silly that people are actually doing this. After reading the article I am both saddened and confused.
I think it is insane that someone with perfect teeth would pay a dentist to make them crooked. In our culture we spend thousands of dollars to do the opposite, make our teeth straight and as close to perfect as money can buy. The sad part is that just like in the United States, in Japan there are young girls who are going to start doing this. We are teaching young girls in all cultures not to accept their bodies and that they should change their appearance to be accepted. We should be teaching them to embrace their imperfections or perfections in this case, and love themselves because they are unique.
There are already many young girls with eating disorders because of how women are portrayed in magazines and on tv. Now we have women making themselves imperfect. What's next?
When I first heard about this I laughed and thought it was silly that people are actually doing this. After reading the article I am both saddened and confused.
I think it is insane that someone with perfect teeth would pay a dentist to make them crooked. In our culture we spend thousands of dollars to do the opposite, make our teeth straight and as close to perfect as money can buy. The sad part is that just like in the United States, in Japan there are young girls who are going to start doing this. We are teaching young girls in all cultures not to accept their bodies and that they should change their appearance to be accepted. We should be teaching them to embrace their imperfections or perfections in this case, and love themselves because they are unique.
There are already many young girls with eating disorders because of how women are portrayed in magazines and on tv. Now we have women making themselves imperfect. What's next?
Friday, October 21, 2011
'Heroin for Sale' fliers lead to Portland raid
Portland's News Channel 8 covered a story about a home that was raided after fliers were found throughout the neighborhood advertising heroin with the address and phone numbers of the drug dealers printed on them. In the raid officers found 20 grams of marijuana, 10 grams of heroin and materials for a meth lab. Six of the seven adults in the home were arrested on various drug charges.
In my opinion these drug dealers are just as dumb as the kid that left the pot in his prescription bottle then dropped it off at the pharmacy.
I am curious when drug dealers started advertising. I have always been under the impression that drug dealers don't "sell" drugs, the drugs sell themselves. I don't think a drug dealer has ever said "How am I going to get rid of all this crack?" The article said that the police have been investigating this house for over a year due to numerous neighborhood complaints. I can't help but wonder if someone in the neighborhood created these fliers to set up the dealers in their neighborhood.
Regardless of who created the fliers, these dealers are guilty and behind bars where they belong.
In my opinion these drug dealers are just as dumb as the kid that left the pot in his prescription bottle then dropped it off at the pharmacy.
I am curious when drug dealers started advertising. I have always been under the impression that drug dealers don't "sell" drugs, the drugs sell themselves. I don't think a drug dealer has ever said "How am I going to get rid of all this crack?" The article said that the police have been investigating this house for over a year due to numerous neighborhood complaints. I can't help but wonder if someone in the neighborhood created these fliers to set up the dealers in their neighborhood.
Regardless of who created the fliers, these dealers are guilty and behind bars where they belong.
3 Foot Tall Burger!
The Detroit News reported that a Southgate eatery created the biggest hamburger in the world. The burger weighs in at 338 pounds and does come with fries and a drink. The burger is listed on the menu as "Absolutely Ridiculous Burger" and costs $2,000. This sandwich is three feet high and is loaded with 540,000 calories. It took 22 hours to cook as has a 100 pound bun, 15 pounds of lettuce, 30 pounds of bacon, 30 pounds of tomatoes and 36 pounds of cheese.The Travel Channel was on location for the unveiling of this monster burger for an upcoming episode of "Food Paradise."
This is an absolutely ridiculous burger! There are people starving throughout the world and this place is making 300 pound hamburgers.
While it's on the menu, it has never been ordered. Why was it necessary to make a burger of this magnitude? I get that they were trying to set a record, but I think we have become way too obsessed with food and this is the result. The article doesn't mention if anyone got to eat any of it or not, hopefully it was not a total waste of food.
Perhaps this is the answer to world hunger.
This is an absolutely ridiculous burger! There are people starving throughout the world and this place is making 300 pound hamburgers.
While it's on the menu, it has never been ordered. Why was it necessary to make a burger of this magnitude? I get that they were trying to set a record, but I think we have become way too obsessed with food and this is the result. The article doesn't mention if anyone got to eat any of it or not, hopefully it was not a total waste of food.
Perhaps this is the answer to world hunger.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Teen busted by alert pharmacist
A rock station in DC, DC 101, posted an article about a seventeen year old who tried to have a prescription filled with marijuana in the bottle. The teen dropped off a medicine bottle at a pharmacy to be refilled. When the pharmacists opened the bottle they discovered what they thought might be marijuana, and called the local authorities. The police determined that it was marijuana and the seventeen year old was charged with possession of marijuana.
My initial reaction is that this teen is an idiot and reflecting on the article only strengthens my initial reaction.
How stupid can this seventeen year old be? His stupidity led to a drug possession charge on his record. Although just having it period wasn't the smartest idea but to leave it in a prescription bottle and take it to the pharmacy is beyond stupid and he deserves to be convicted.
This is your brain on drugs...
My initial reaction is that this teen is an idiot and reflecting on the article only strengthens my initial reaction.
How stupid can this seventeen year old be? His stupidity led to a drug possession charge on his record. Although just having it period wasn't the smartest idea but to leave it in a prescription bottle and take it to the pharmacy is beyond stupid and he deserves to be convicted.
This is your brain on drugs...
Bra removal not grounds for dismissal, judge rules
The Toronto Sun published this article about Sang Eun Lee who was forced to remove her under-wire bra for safety reasons when she was arrested for impaired driving. Lee tried to beat the charge by alleging her rights were violated. Before her arrest, Lee was drinking at a bar where the staff helped her to a taxi. She had a dispute with the taxi driver and decided to drive herself home, so the concerned cab driver called 911. The police caught her as she pulled into her apartment complex and parked in the wrong driveway. Lee was found guilty of impaired operation of a motor vehicle and received a minimum fine of $1,000 and her licence was suspended for a year.
I am angered by Lee's attempt to get out of the ticket by falsely claiming her rights were violated.
Lee claimed that she was strip searched, upon investigation she was only asked to remove her bra for safety reasons, something that is done with all females. She was not singled out. Lee also claimed that when she was arrested that the police didn't explain her right to council in her native language and she didn't understand English. The judge pointed out that Lee attended an English university in the United states from 1993 through 1997 and that she had no trouble following the officers directions as shown in the surveillance video from the police station. Neither of her "excuses" held any weight in court. Regardless of the fact that the police allegedly performed an illegal strip search and did or didn't explain her rights in her native language doesn't negate that fact that Lee was guilty of driving drunk. Those are separate issues and the fact that she thought the charges should be thrown out because of that is absurd.
Everyone needs to start taking responsibility for their actions instead of trying to place blame elsewhere. I love the fact that in this case Lee's allegations were proved false and feel that she should have been punished for making them.
I am angered by Lee's attempt to get out of the ticket by falsely claiming her rights were violated.
Lee claimed that she was strip searched, upon investigation she was only asked to remove her bra for safety reasons, something that is done with all females. She was not singled out. Lee also claimed that when she was arrested that the police didn't explain her right to council in her native language and she didn't understand English. The judge pointed out that Lee attended an English university in the United states from 1993 through 1997 and that she had no trouble following the officers directions as shown in the surveillance video from the police station. Neither of her "excuses" held any weight in court. Regardless of the fact that the police allegedly performed an illegal strip search and did or didn't explain her rights in her native language doesn't negate that fact that Lee was guilty of driving drunk. Those are separate issues and the fact that she thought the charges should be thrown out because of that is absurd.
Everyone needs to start taking responsibility for their actions instead of trying to place blame elsewhere. I love the fact that in this case Lee's allegations were proved false and feel that she should have been punished for making them.
Boston Hospital Performs Double Hand Transplant
The Boston Channel a story about a man that received a double hand transplant. This is Boston’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital's first successful double hand transplant. Richard Mangino, the recipient, is a 65 year old married father and grandfather. Mangino lost his arms at the elbow and his legs at the knee in 2002 when he developed sepsis and his limbs were amputated after a medically induced coma. Mangino says that he looks forward to shaking a friend’s hand, going swimming and riding a bike.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Crazy!
This last month has been crazy! I was rear ended on September 8th and my vehicle was totaled. I was stopped at a red light and rear ended by another driver who told the police that she thought the turn lane had a green light because other traffic was moving too. Apparently the stopped cars in front of her didn't clue her in to the fact that maybe she should stop too. She hit my vehicle so hard that she pushed it 5 feet forward, causing me to rear end the vehicle in front of me. She called her father and he arrived at the scene of the accident and tried to get his "little girl" out of the ticket and actually told the police officer that it was absurd that his daughter get a ticket for careless driving since she's not any more careless than any other driver in Joplin. Her father also wanted to know why I didn't get a ticket and the officer told him that they usually don't give tickets to people who are innocently rear ended while sitting at a red light.
I have 3 sons and two of them had birthdays this month. The youngest turned 5 and the middle son turned 12. My oldest is 15. I have been busy attending the older boy's sporting events. My oldest is in cross country and my middle boy plays football.
I also have 3 dogs, a 6 year old chocolate lab, one male and one female chihuahua. The female chihuahua gave birth to SIX puppies the day after my middle son's birthday. So, I guess I have 9 dogs temporarily!
Last night, my garage was broken into. Luckily nothing of importance was taken. I had about a case of beer left over from a get together that were left in a cooler in my garage. The beers had been there for almost 3 weeks, so they were warm and probably pretty skunky. That is what the thieves decided to steal, skunky beer. They were polite thieves, they did leave one beer in the cooler. For insurance purposes I had to have the police come fill out a report and it was a little embarrassing to tell them the only thing they stole was my beer. Because of all the damage they caused to my garage door it's going to have to be replaced now and the estimate of replacing it is just over one thousand dollars. That's an expensive case of beer, I hope the thieves puke their guts out from drinking that skunky beer!
I have 3 sons and two of them had birthdays this month. The youngest turned 5 and the middle son turned 12. My oldest is 15. I have been busy attending the older boy's sporting events. My oldest is in cross country and my middle boy plays football.
I also have 3 dogs, a 6 year old chocolate lab, one male and one female chihuahua. The female chihuahua gave birth to SIX puppies the day after my middle son's birthday. So, I guess I have 9 dogs temporarily!
Last night, my garage was broken into. Luckily nothing of importance was taken. I had about a case of beer left over from a get together that were left in a cooler in my garage. The beers had been there for almost 3 weeks, so they were warm and probably pretty skunky. That is what the thieves decided to steal, skunky beer. They were polite thieves, they did leave one beer in the cooler. For insurance purposes I had to have the police come fill out a report and it was a little embarrassing to tell them the only thing they stole was my beer. Because of all the damage they caused to my garage door it's going to have to be replaced now and the estimate of replacing it is just over one thousand dollars. That's an expensive case of beer, I hope the thieves puke their guts out from drinking that skunky beer!
Google pulls 'Is My Son Gay?' Anroid App
cnet News reported that Google pulled the "Is My Son Gay" application for Android. This application was created by Christophe de Baran, comedic author and openly gay man. The application relied on stereotypes, posing such inane questions as 'does he read the sports pages?' and 'does he care about how he dresses?' Members of allout.org launched a Twitter campaign urging people to demand that Google remove the application they claim to be offensive. A company spokesman from Google stated that "We remove apps that violate our policies." The developers of the app also provided a statement from the author who commissioned the app to promote a book he wrote, stating that "This app was conceived with a playful approach. It is not based at all on scientific research. Through humor, "Is My Son Gay?" and the forthcoming novel have the sole objective of toning down/improving the situation and helping mothers to accept their sons' homosexuality."
I don't know what I find most offensive, the fact that Google removed the app or the fact that some parents actually downloaded this app thinking it was real. After reading the article I am more offended by the parents who believed this app was real.
There are so many offensive apps on the Android Market, there are even apps similar to this one, the only difference is that they state that they are not real and are a joke. Does this mean they are going to start removing every app an organization might launch a campaign against because they find it offensive? Where does common sense factor in? If you believe this app is real, you must be an idiot, should be the disclaimer attached to this app. What is really scary is that there were some parents who actually downloaded this app thinking they would find out if their son was gay or not. These parents don't have any business being parents.
What ever happened to parents actually talking to their children? If you want to know if your son is gay, ask him! DUH!
I don't know what I find most offensive, the fact that Google removed the app or the fact that some parents actually downloaded this app thinking it was real. After reading the article I am more offended by the parents who believed this app was real.
There are so many offensive apps on the Android Market, there are even apps similar to this one, the only difference is that they state that they are not real and are a joke. Does this mean they are going to start removing every app an organization might launch a campaign against because they find it offensive? Where does common sense factor in? If you believe this app is real, you must be an idiot, should be the disclaimer attached to this app. What is really scary is that there were some parents who actually downloaded this app thinking they would find out if their son was gay or not. These parents don't have any business being parents.
What ever happened to parents actually talking to their children? If you want to know if your son is gay, ask him! DUH!
Cell phone thief posts photo of himself on victim's Facebook page
Police in Henry County are on the hunt for a man who allegedly broke into a car and inadvertently posted a photo of himself on the victim's Facebook page. The victim was picking up her child from daycare and left her car unlocked. When the victim when inside the building to get her child the thief entered her vehicle and took her purse. The victim didn't realize until she got home that her purse was missing. The victim logged on to Facebook and noticed that a picture had been automatically updated from her cell phone, as her setting her in phone are set to automatically upload all photos to her Facebook page. The victim then recognized this as the person who was parked next to her at the daycare where her purse was stolen. The police are confident the suspect will be recognized and captured.
This should be on America's Dumbest Criminals! The victim isn't the sharpest tool in the shed either for leaving her car unlocked. After finishing the article, it was a smart move on the victim's part to have her her photos automatically uploaded to Facebook.
As if it isn't bad enough that the thief took someone's purse, they took a self photo with the victim's phone, resulting in the police having a photo of the suspected thief. The victim wasn't very smart for leaving her car unlocked with her purse inside it just because she thought it was a female sitting in the car she parked beside. Male or female, either could have taken it. What she thought was a female ended up being a male that she recognized in the Facebook photo as the person she parked beside at the daycare. If the victim would have locked her car in the first place this probably wouldn't even be an issue.
Take a lesson from the victim in this story and lock your car and if you're going to steal a cell phone don't take any photos of yourself!
This should be on America's Dumbest Criminals! The victim isn't the sharpest tool in the shed either for leaving her car unlocked. After finishing the article, it was a smart move on the victim's part to have her her photos automatically uploaded to Facebook.
As if it isn't bad enough that the thief took someone's purse, they took a self photo with the victim's phone, resulting in the police having a photo of the suspected thief. The victim wasn't very smart for leaving her car unlocked with her purse inside it just because she thought it was a female sitting in the car she parked beside. Male or female, either could have taken it. What she thought was a female ended up being a male that she recognized in the Facebook photo as the person she parked beside at the daycare. If the victim would have locked her car in the first place this probably wouldn't even be an issue.
Take a lesson from the victim in this story and lock your car and if you're going to steal a cell phone don't take any photos of yourself!
Friday, September 23, 2011
Aurora girl gets chance to cheer
The Omaha World Herald has posted an article about Julia Sullivan, who wants to become a cheerleader. Julia was born without legs and arms that stop shy of her elbows and has been taking dance classes for over ten years, is a member of pep band and the marching band, but has not made the cheerleading squad. When the cheerleading coach from Portland, Michigan got word of Julia Sullivan's story she invited Julia to cheer with them at homecoming. Julia will get to cheer at the pep rally and the homecoming game, ride in the parade, and participate in the team sleepover. She will get a team uniform and a football signed by the football team. The community of Portland has also donated use of a van for Julia's family as well as meals and hotel stays. Portland says they are not doing this to make Julia's school look bad but they wanted to give Julia the opportunity to cheer.
This is an amazing, inspirational story. I am glad that this young girl will finally get the chance to do something she has always wanted to do.
The cheerleading coach and the people in the community of Portland, Michigan are truly amazing to be able to make this girls dream come true. Even more amazing than the coach and community is this young girl, Julia Sullivan, who isn't letting anything hold her back from accomplishing her dreams. I am furious at her current school for not offering her accommodations for her disability from the first time she tried out, instead her parents had to get an attorney and the school was forced to offer it next year when she tries out and still makes no guarantees of her making the team. They are not asking for a guarantee, just a fair chance. That isn't too much to ask for.
Julia Sullivan probably has more spirit than the whole squad at her current school and they are fools for not being able to look past her disability and recognize that.
This is an amazing, inspirational story. I am glad that this young girl will finally get the chance to do something she has always wanted to do.
The cheerleading coach and the people in the community of Portland, Michigan are truly amazing to be able to make this girls dream come true. Even more amazing than the coach and community is this young girl, Julia Sullivan, who isn't letting anything hold her back from accomplishing her dreams. I am furious at her current school for not offering her accommodations for her disability from the first time she tried out, instead her parents had to get an attorney and the school was forced to offer it next year when she tries out and still makes no guarantees of her making the team. They are not asking for a guarantee, just a fair chance. That isn't too much to ask for.
Julia Sullivan probably has more spirit than the whole squad at her current school and they are fools for not being able to look past her disability and recognize that.
Driver in fatal Stafford crash was on probation, had history of license suspensions
Asbury Park Press posted an article about a 76 year old mad who was struck and killed by a driver with a history of license suspensions for drunk driving and was on probation at the time of the accident. The driver of the vehicle has had his license suspended seven times by a court, and three of those suspensions were related to driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. On the day of the crash his license was valid. Awaiting a blood analysis report of the driver, charges are have not yet been filed.
My first reaction to this article is shock, I can't believe that someone with so many suspensions and drug/alcohol driving charges is still able to get a license. It's even more shocking that he had a valid license at the time of the accident.
"He is what we consider a driver in good standing" quoted directly from the article, this quote absolutely floors me. I understand under the eyes of the law and courts that he did what he was supposed to do in order to obtain his license and that is why the statement was made, my concern is why the courts keep giving him his license back! Apparently you do the time, pay a fee, take some classes and you can have your license back. Seven suspensions, there should be some kind of limit here. He has had three drug/alcohol related charges while driving, he should not even have the option to obtain his license.
I think we need stricter laws regarding obtaining a driver's license after alcohol/drug related offenses, not only alcohol/drug charges specifically related to driving but alcohol/drug related offenses period. Perhaps if there were stricter laws in place this driver would not have been driving and this poor pedestrian would still be alive.
My first reaction to this article is shock, I can't believe that someone with so many suspensions and drug/alcohol driving charges is still able to get a license. It's even more shocking that he had a valid license at the time of the accident.
"He is what we consider a driver in good standing" quoted directly from the article, this quote absolutely floors me. I understand under the eyes of the law and courts that he did what he was supposed to do in order to obtain his license and that is why the statement was made, my concern is why the courts keep giving him his license back! Apparently you do the time, pay a fee, take some classes and you can have your license back. Seven suspensions, there should be some kind of limit here. He has had three drug/alcohol related charges while driving, he should not even have the option to obtain his license.
I think we need stricter laws regarding obtaining a driver's license after alcohol/drug related offenses, not only alcohol/drug charges specifically related to driving but alcohol/drug related offenses period. Perhaps if there were stricter laws in place this driver would not have been driving and this poor pedestrian would still be alive.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Less Play Time = More Troubled Kids, Experts Say
U.S. News reports that "Adult interference may deprive children of needed challenges, not to mention fun". According to this article researchers have found that children today have far less time to play outdoors than children did 50 years ago, which may have serious consequences on their development and mental health. The article states that since the 1950's adults have played a much larger role in their children's activities having a detrimental effect on their mental health by not allowing them the basic competencies ultimately needed to become adults acquired through free play. Surveys reflect that the parent's fears of abduction, worries about kids getting hit by cars and bullies are keeping kids indoors.
I agree with this article and can see how the lack of free play can have a detrimental effect on a child's development. At the same time I also disagree that children should be allowed to go outside unsupervised in today's society.
While in the 1950's children were allowed to go outside unsupervised, today that wouldn't be acceptable. The article talks about the differences in free play from the 50's to now but doesn't talk about the increase in crimes and the changes in laws over the years. I wouldn't let my four year old go outside unsupervised. Maybe that is because of a fear of abduction or getting hit by a car, really anything can happen. I think that these fears existed in the 50's but they weren't as prevalent. My kids don't play outside near as often as I did when I was a child. If I was inside my parents wanted to know why I wasn't outside playing. But when I was a child we lived in the middle of nowhere on a farm and the odds of something happening were much less, I now live on a busy street in the middle of town and am not comfortable letting my four year old play outside unsupervised.
I feel like the research should have gone more in depth on the changes in crimes and laws regarding children, not just showing research about how children not being allowed to go outside and have free play is detrimental to their development and mental health.
I agree with this article and can see how the lack of free play can have a detrimental effect on a child's development. At the same time I also disagree that children should be allowed to go outside unsupervised in today's society.
While in the 1950's children were allowed to go outside unsupervised, today that wouldn't be acceptable. The article talks about the differences in free play from the 50's to now but doesn't talk about the increase in crimes and the changes in laws over the years. I wouldn't let my four year old go outside unsupervised. Maybe that is because of a fear of abduction or getting hit by a car, really anything can happen. I think that these fears existed in the 50's but they weren't as prevalent. My kids don't play outside near as often as I did when I was a child. If I was inside my parents wanted to know why I wasn't outside playing. But when I was a child we lived in the middle of nowhere on a farm and the odds of something happening were much less, I now live on a busy street in the middle of town and am not comfortable letting my four year old play outside unsupervised.
I feel like the research should have gone more in depth on the changes in crimes and laws regarding children, not just showing research about how children not being allowed to go outside and have free play is detrimental to their development and mental health.
Friday, September 16, 2011
Mom Gambled Away Donations to Fight Son's Cancer
A mother in Buffalo, New York pleads guilting to felony fraud after gambling away her son's donations to fight cancer. The mother admitted to gambling $15,000 that was raised to help her son battle leukemia. The mother states that she isn't sure of the total amount she has gambled away but does say that it is virtually all gone. She admits to being a gambling addict and faces up to four years in prison.
I feel terrible for the son with cancer and am furious by what this mother has done with her son's donations. After further reading the article I was even more angry with her for blaming it on a gambling addiction.
I have heard many stories of people who make up fraudulent organizations or charities to make money, but for a mother to gamble her own son's donations that he needs to help fight cancer is completely unacceptable. She accepts blame and says she knows she is wrong, so why not get some help? There is no talk in the article about her getting help for this addiction. I would imagine that spending your child's cancer donations would have to be pretty close to rock bottom.
I have three children and can't imagine ever putting my own needs before theirs, especially if their's was life threatening. I hope they make an example out of her and give her the maximum penalty.
I feel terrible for the son with cancer and am furious by what this mother has done with her son's donations. After further reading the article I was even more angry with her for blaming it on a gambling addiction.
I have heard many stories of people who make up fraudulent organizations or charities to make money, but for a mother to gamble her own son's donations that he needs to help fight cancer is completely unacceptable. She accepts blame and says she knows she is wrong, so why not get some help? There is no talk in the article about her getting help for this addiction. I would imagine that spending your child's cancer donations would have to be pretty close to rock bottom.
I have three children and can't imagine ever putting my own needs before theirs, especially if their's was life threatening. I hope they make an example out of her and give her the maximum penalty.
2 Arrested After Body Reportedly Driven To Bars
In Denver, Colorado two men are accused of using dead man's credit card at bars. Denver.com posted this news story about two men who are accused of transporting a body of a friend to various bars and using his credit card. The men put their friend's body in a car and went bar hopping before returning him to his home and notifying the authorities.
My first thought was is this for real? I am shocked that this dead man's supposed friends loaded his body and drove him around while they bar hopped. As if it isn't bad enough that they put him in their car while they went to bars, they used their dead friends credit card to fund their evening.
If I were to find my friend dead my first thought would not be to load them up in my car and go drinking and I certainly wouldn't use their credit cards. The article stated that they went to a few bars then took the dead friend back to his place and put him in bed then went and got gas and a burrito with his credit card. After that they were at another bar where they flagged down a police officer outside the bar and told him they thought their friend was dead. The police went to check it out and found his body. The article compares this incident to the movie "Weekend at Bernies".
These men had to know he was dead, I just wonder what they were thinking! They keep referring to these men as his friends but their actions don't speak of friendship at all. If these were his only friends, perhaps he is better off.
My first thought was is this for real? I am shocked that this dead man's supposed friends loaded his body and drove him around while they bar hopped. As if it isn't bad enough that they put him in their car while they went to bars, they used their dead friends credit card to fund their evening.
If I were to find my friend dead my first thought would not be to load them up in my car and go drinking and I certainly wouldn't use their credit cards. The article stated that they went to a few bars then took the dead friend back to his place and put him in bed then went and got gas and a burrito with his credit card. After that they were at another bar where they flagged down a police officer outside the bar and told him they thought their friend was dead. The police went to check it out and found his body. The article compares this incident to the movie "Weekend at Bernies".
These men had to know he was dead, I just wonder what they were thinking! They keep referring to these men as his friends but their actions don't speak of friendship at all. If these were his only friends, perhaps he is better off.
Sexual encounter leads to J.V. football forfeit
The Baltimore Sun published this article regarding a girl and multiple members of Essex's Kenwood High School junior varsity football team. According to the article there was a consensual sexual encounter between members of the football team and a girl which resulted in school officials forfieting the upcoming game after receiving knowledged of the incident. The school's principal also sent out letters to the parents of the students who were involved in the incident.
I am baffled by the way the school took over what the parents should be stepping up and handling. After reflecting on the article I feel more strongly that this is a parental issue not the schools.
I am somewhat confused as to where the school's responsibility lies on this matter. The article does not mention that the incident took place on school grounds in which case the school should intervene. I don't disagree with the school notifying the parents of the player's who were involved in the incident, but I do disagree with them forfieting a football game and punishing the entire team for something not all of them were a part of. The parents should be taking charge and handling this incident with their children. I don't think it is appropriate for the school to take a parental role and discipline these children for something that didn't take place on school property.
I am not condoning the behavior but parents must be held accountable for their children's actions and take responsibility in teaching them right from wrong. I don't understand why the school feels they need to take on the role of parenting by punishing these students. Perhaps it's because some parents have become lazy or too busy/involved in themselves that they feel that it is the school's responsibility to raise their children, which is very sad.
I am baffled by the way the school took over what the parents should be stepping up and handling. After reflecting on the article I feel more strongly that this is a parental issue not the schools.
I am somewhat confused as to where the school's responsibility lies on this matter. The article does not mention that the incident took place on school grounds in which case the school should intervene. I don't disagree with the school notifying the parents of the player's who were involved in the incident, but I do disagree with them forfieting a football game and punishing the entire team for something not all of them were a part of. The parents should be taking charge and handling this incident with their children. I don't think it is appropriate for the school to take a parental role and discipline these children for something that didn't take place on school property.
I am not condoning the behavior but parents must be held accountable for their children's actions and take responsibility in teaching them right from wrong. I don't understand why the school feels they need to take on the role of parenting by punishing these students. Perhaps it's because some parents have become lazy or too busy/involved in themselves that they feel that it is the school's responsibility to raise their children, which is very sad.
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Boy Left In Car Died From Heat Stroke
A boy dying from a heat stroke as a result of being left unattended in a car is featured in The Sun News. Three year old Andrew Leighlan Calloway was pronounced dead as a result of being left in a parked car. Calloway was with his babysitter, Sheila Henderson, Henderson's sister and two other children on a lunch outing. Upon their return they exited the vehicle and it took Henderson an hour to realize that Calloway was not in the house and went out to the car to find him unconscious and called 911. Calloway's father arrived to pick him up and found the day care roped off with crime scene tape. Calloway's father was notified by police at the scene that his son was left in a car, lost consciousness and was taken to the hospital.
I was both saddened and angered by this story. I am sad for the child and his family and angry that this completely unavoidable, careless incident occurred.
When I first saw the headline I assumed it was another irresponsible parent leaving their child in a hot car but was surprised to find it was a day care provider. As if it wasn't bad enough that the child was left in the car but it took the day care an entire hour to realize the child wasn't in the house. The article stated that Calloway was on a lunch outing with two adults and two other children. Two adults left the day care with three children, took three children out to eat and returned from lunch with three children yet only two children were brought inside the day care. How does the third child get forgotten? Not just forgotten for a short period of time, but for an hour by two adults who were paid and trusted to care for this child. I feel terrible for this poor father who returned from work to pick up his son and was informed that the people he trusted to care for his son left him in a hot car for an hour where he lost consciousness, then was taken to the hospital only to find out he never regained consciousness.
I can't help but to speculate about the reasons why this day care only had a city business license but was not licensed by the state as a day care, perhaps they were avoiding it or even possibly got denied. I am appalled at the carelessness of this so called day care and hope that incidents like this can be avoided in the future, perhaps by installing some sort of safety feature in vehicles driven by forgetful, irresponsible morons to remind them they have a child in the car.
I was both saddened and angered by this story. I am sad for the child and his family and angry that this completely unavoidable, careless incident occurred.
When I first saw the headline I assumed it was another irresponsible parent leaving their child in a hot car but was surprised to find it was a day care provider. As if it wasn't bad enough that the child was left in the car but it took the day care an entire hour to realize the child wasn't in the house. The article stated that Calloway was on a lunch outing with two adults and two other children. Two adults left the day care with three children, took three children out to eat and returned from lunch with three children yet only two children were brought inside the day care. How does the third child get forgotten? Not just forgotten for a short period of time, but for an hour by two adults who were paid and trusted to care for this child. I feel terrible for this poor father who returned from work to pick up his son and was informed that the people he trusted to care for his son left him in a hot car for an hour where he lost consciousness, then was taken to the hospital only to find out he never regained consciousness.
I can't help but to speculate about the reasons why this day care only had a city business license but was not licensed by the state as a day care, perhaps they were avoiding it or even possibly got denied. I am appalled at the carelessness of this so called day care and hope that incidents like this can be avoided in the future, perhaps by installing some sort of safety feature in vehicles driven by forgetful, irresponsible morons to remind them they have a child in the car.
College Students Not Getting Enough Z's
Yahoo! News posted an article about college students not getting the required seven to eight hours of sleep per night. According to the article to the article this affects a student's ability to learn. Researches from the University of Cincinnati questioned approximately 200 college students who do not live at home between the ages of 18-24 about their sleep habits. The majority of the students who were questioned work full or part time and only 24% of them report getting the reccommended amount of sleep while 21% get more than the required 8 hours of sleep. Throughout the article the author of the study, Adam Knowlden talks about how sleep deprivation directly effects a student's learning potential.
The article itself was somewhat interesting although I was disappointed in the actual study the article was featuring. I felt like both the article and the study were generic as I was hoping for a broader explanation on this subject.
It's not really news that students are not getting enough sleep or that sleep deprivation effects a person's learning potential. Everyone should already know that we need to get the required amount of sleep for optimum learning potential. What wasn't discussed is that every person is different and not everyone requires exactly seven to eight hours of sleep to achieve optimum learning potential. On the other hand some people require more than the seven to eight hours. They only interviewed around 200 students in one demographic which I don't feel provides enough output. The article does mention that financial concerns and poor time and stress management were factors that hindered a student's ability to get enough sleep, which I do agree effects not only college students but everyone without regard to demographics.
Despite my need for broader information on the study itself, the main point of the article was that getting enough rest is detrimental to a student's success.
The article itself was somewhat interesting although I was disappointed in the actual study the article was featuring. I felt like both the article and the study were generic as I was hoping for a broader explanation on this subject.
It's not really news that students are not getting enough sleep or that sleep deprivation effects a person's learning potential. Everyone should already know that we need to get the required amount of sleep for optimum learning potential. What wasn't discussed is that every person is different and not everyone requires exactly seven to eight hours of sleep to achieve optimum learning potential. On the other hand some people require more than the seven to eight hours. They only interviewed around 200 students in one demographic which I don't feel provides enough output. The article does mention that financial concerns and poor time and stress management were factors that hindered a student's ability to get enough sleep, which I do agree effects not only college students but everyone without regard to demographics.
Despite my need for broader information on the study itself, the main point of the article was that getting enough rest is detrimental to a student's success.
Oversize Man Sues White Castle Over Seats
My Fox New York posted an article about a 290 pound man who is sueing the hamburger chain,White Castle, because he is too large to fit in their booths. Martin Kessman claims that the booth size violates the civil rights of fat people. Kessman's lawsuit was filed two years after he filed a complaint with White Castle's corporate offices. According to Kessman, after he filed that complaint he was promised that rennovations would be made to the seating to accommodate larger customers and nothing has changed. Kessman believes that The Americans with Disabilities Act applies not only to him, but to pregnant women and handicapped people. Kessman is suing for bigger chairs and unspecified damages.
The idea that someone can sue a restaurant because they are too fat to fit in their booths is absurd. This reaction was only strengthened after reading the entire article and reflecting upon it.
The fact that Kessman thinks his obesity is a disibality and is putting himself in the same category as pregnant women and handicapped people is unacceptable to me. It could possibly be considered a disability if he had a medical condition that caused his obesity but he doesn't. I can't wrap my mind around the fact that someone can sue a company simply because they are too fat to fit in their seating. If I didn't fit in a reastaurant's seating area, I wouldn't go back, plain and simple. There are other options, he could use the drive through, he could go inside and get it to go, or he could have someone pick it up for him, but no, he is going to sue them so they possibly may be forced to make larger booths and he may even get money out of it. I don't think this is fair to White Castle and I hope that this doesn't set a presidence for all restaurants to have to shell out money in this already suffering economy for unnecessary remodeling which could result in some of our local small business owners having to close because they don't have the extra money to comply with a ridiculous new law.
If I was so obese that I couldn't fit in a fast food restaurant's seating I probably shouldn't be eating fast food. Obviously Kessman doesn't connect the dots.
The idea that someone can sue a restaurant because they are too fat to fit in their booths is absurd. This reaction was only strengthened after reading the entire article and reflecting upon it.
The fact that Kessman thinks his obesity is a disibality and is putting himself in the same category as pregnant women and handicapped people is unacceptable to me. It could possibly be considered a disability if he had a medical condition that caused his obesity but he doesn't. I can't wrap my mind around the fact that someone can sue a company simply because they are too fat to fit in their seating. If I didn't fit in a reastaurant's seating area, I wouldn't go back, plain and simple. There are other options, he could use the drive through, he could go inside and get it to go, or he could have someone pick it up for him, but no, he is going to sue them so they possibly may be forced to make larger booths and he may even get money out of it. I don't think this is fair to White Castle and I hope that this doesn't set a presidence for all restaurants to have to shell out money in this already suffering economy for unnecessary remodeling which could result in some of our local small business owners having to close because they don't have the extra money to comply with a ridiculous new law.
If I was so obese that I couldn't fit in a fast food restaurant's seating I probably shouldn't be eating fast food. Obviously Kessman doesn't connect the dots.
Friday, September 2, 2011
Youth Football Referee Attacked
Youth Football Referee Attacked is an article I found on TBO.com. In Sarasota Florida a youth football referee was attacked by three coaches and a 14 year old player last weekend. The three coaches and 14 year old were all charged with one count of battery on a sports official which is a third degree felony. In addition one of the three coaches also attacked a coach from the opposing team who was attempting to break up the fight, and is charged with battery which is a misdemeanor.
I was very disappointed in these coaches just after reading the headline but after finishing the article I am not only disappointed but also angered by the irrational behavior of these coaches who are supposed to be leaders and role models for our children.
Before the attack the referee had called several penalties and the coaches first started verbally abusing him and even threw a water at him. This behavior caused the referee to eject the coaches from the game and eventually terminate the game minutes before the first half had been completed. The behavior of the coaches before the attack was completely unacceptable. They should be setting a good example and teaching good sportsmanship instead of everything else they did. One of the attackers was a 14 year old boy. I believe this action was a result of his coaches behaviors and probably wouldn't have happened if his coaches had behaved differently. That in no way excuses his behavior, he should know right from wrong, but the coaches behaviors and actions most likely influenced his behavior.
Upon reflection of this story I can't help but wonder why none of the parents did anything about this before it got out of hand. I have a 15 year old boy and if any of his coaches, let alone all of them, were exhibiting that behavior I would not have sat quietly in the stands turning a blind eye.
I was very disappointed in these coaches just after reading the headline but after finishing the article I am not only disappointed but also angered by the irrational behavior of these coaches who are supposed to be leaders and role models for our children.
Before the attack the referee had called several penalties and the coaches first started verbally abusing him and even threw a water at him. This behavior caused the referee to eject the coaches from the game and eventually terminate the game minutes before the first half had been completed. The behavior of the coaches before the attack was completely unacceptable. They should be setting a good example and teaching good sportsmanship instead of everything else they did. One of the attackers was a 14 year old boy. I believe this action was a result of his coaches behaviors and probably wouldn't have happened if his coaches had behaved differently. That in no way excuses his behavior, he should know right from wrong, but the coaches behaviors and actions most likely influenced his behavior.
Upon reflection of this story I can't help but wonder why none of the parents did anything about this before it got out of hand. I have a 15 year old boy and if any of his coaches, let alone all of them, were exhibiting that behavior I would not have sat quietly in the stands turning a blind eye.
To the rescue -- finding a purpose for rejected shelter dogs
I came across this article, "To the Rescue" on CNN's website. The article is about Wilma Melville, the founder of the National Disaster Search Dog Foundation. In 1996 Melville started looking for shelter dogs with potential to become search dogs. Melville states that there are about 250 search and rescue teams, made up of dog and handler, but that is only about half the number that is needed to cover the country. These teams are FEMA certified and travel to disasters all over the world. Melville started this foundation after the Oklahoma City Bombing and the dogs and handlers trained through her foundation have provided help to the Japan & Haiti earthquakes, the May 22 tornado in Joplin and the 9/11 attacks in New York. Melville's organization has trained about 130 teams, for free. Melville says that this is the only group in the nation that gives a highly trained, professionally trained dog, to a handler and then stays with that handler for the rest of the team's life together.
I was thrilled to come across this article and learn about this foundation. After reading the article my feelings about Melville's foundation didn't change.
This is a great way to save a shelter dog that normally wouldn't have much of a chance of being adopted to a forever home. After training these shelter animals for free they are placed with their handler forever. As a former animal control officer, I was excited to hear about Melville's foundation. Melville discussed in the article a former shelter dog who had previously been rejected by two foster homes because he was deemed too hyper to be a pet. But his search-and-rescue training gave him a purpose. There are many displaced animals who are euthanized simply because someone wanted a cute, furry puppy but aren't willing to take responsibility for it once the cuteness wears off and Melville has created a place for them. Another great thing about Melville's foundation is that she does this for free and receives no federal or state funding.
Melville is saving animals who are saving lives, what a great service.
I was thrilled to come across this article and learn about this foundation. After reading the article my feelings about Melville's foundation didn't change.
This is a great way to save a shelter dog that normally wouldn't have much of a chance of being adopted to a forever home. After training these shelter animals for free they are placed with their handler forever. As a former animal control officer, I was excited to hear about Melville's foundation. Melville discussed in the article a former shelter dog who had previously been rejected by two foster homes because he was deemed too hyper to be a pet. But his search-and-rescue training gave him a purpose. There are many displaced animals who are euthanized simply because someone wanted a cute, furry puppy but aren't willing to take responsibility for it once the cuteness wears off and Melville has created a place for them. Another great thing about Melville's foundation is that she does this for free and receives no federal or state funding.
Melville is saving animals who are saving lives, what a great service.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
FDA TYRANNIZES AMISH FARMER
I found "The case of Dan Allgyer" on directactionstation.com. Dan Allgyer is a dairy farmer from Pennsylvania who is being convicted for selling raw milk harvested from his cattle to out of state residents. The sale of unpasteurized milk across state lines is a federal crime. The FDA set up a sting operation posing undercover as customers from Maryland and bought milk from Dan Allgyer on 23 separate occasions from 2009 to 2011. Each time it was tested in never contained any harmful pathogens only tested positive for a lack of pasteurization. With that evidence, on April 20, 2011, "the FDA then proceeded in a manner fit for the taking down of a drug lord". Dan Allgyer's farm was raided by the FDA and all the milk was confiscated and tested to confirm again that it was unpasteurized and again it contained no harmful pathogens. Then on April 19, 2011, one year after Dan Allgyer's farm was raided, the FDA filed suit in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania seeking an order banning this farmer from selling his milk and to cover the cost of the investigation and all legal fees.
I think the prosecution of this farmer is absurd. I am outraged at how the government is treating this hard working farmer as if he were a drug lord. The "illegal" milk he was selling was not harmful and tests done by the FDA itself prove that it contained nothing harmful.
The article states that FDA does not argue that Dan Allgyer’s milk will in fact cause you injury if you drink it, only that it could cause you injury. That is ridiculous. Anything you consume could cause you harm. Having a pet could cause you injury, does that mean the government should come and confiscate everyone's pets, then prosecute anyone that has a pet? Every year thousands of Americans become ill and hundreds die from ingesting pasteurized milk and cheese contaminated with listeria, salmonella, or other harmful pathogens. That being said, the government could demand that specific measures are taken to make sure that unpasteurized dairy milk is safe, but instead make a law that all dairy products need to be pasteurized to ensure that these small farmers can't compete with the mass manufacturers of pasteurized dairy, which is just as risky to consume. The people who were buying this "illegal" milk were specifically asking for it. These people weren't at the grocery store accidentally grabbing unpasteurized dairy products. That isn't even a possibility due to the government's regulations on the sales of unpasteurized milk.
It is crazy to me, that in the same store where pasteurized milk is sold, I can purchase alcohol and tobacco products that are much more harmful than any dairy products, but I can't buy unpasteurized dairy products. In a nutshell, the government ultimately decides what we can or can't consume, whether it's harmful or not.
I think the prosecution of this farmer is absurd. I am outraged at how the government is treating this hard working farmer as if he were a drug lord. The "illegal" milk he was selling was not harmful and tests done by the FDA itself prove that it contained nothing harmful.
The article states that FDA does not argue that Dan Allgyer’s milk will in fact cause you injury if you drink it, only that it could cause you injury. That is ridiculous. Anything you consume could cause you harm. Having a pet could cause you injury, does that mean the government should come and confiscate everyone's pets, then prosecute anyone that has a pet? Every year thousands of Americans become ill and hundreds die from ingesting pasteurized milk and cheese contaminated with listeria, salmonella, or other harmful pathogens. That being said, the government could demand that specific measures are taken to make sure that unpasteurized dairy milk is safe, but instead make a law that all dairy products need to be pasteurized to ensure that these small farmers can't compete with the mass manufacturers of pasteurized dairy, which is just as risky to consume. The people who were buying this "illegal" milk were specifically asking for it. These people weren't at the grocery store accidentally grabbing unpasteurized dairy products. That isn't even a possibility due to the government's regulations on the sales of unpasteurized milk.
It is crazy to me, that in the same store where pasteurized milk is sold, I can purchase alcohol and tobacco products that are much more harmful than any dairy products, but I can't buy unpasteurized dairy products. In a nutshell, the government ultimately decides what we can or can't consume, whether it's harmful or not.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Introduction
Hi, I am Danielle. This is my first attempt returning to school after graduating from high school in 1992. I went into the Army right after high school and worked in Information Systems and as a Combat Medic. I have a diverse work history and have been an animal control officer, insurance agent and network administrator. I am majoring in Computer Forensics and hope to obtain employment with a police department or government agency investigating internet crimes. My decision to attend college is not only to better myself but to make a better life for my family and set a good example for my children. I have 3 boys who are 15, 11 and 5 that drive me insane but wouldn't trade them for anything!
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