Thursday, December 24, 2009
CHRISTmas as I see it.....
A lot of people are probably confused about Christmas. Christmas does raise a bunch of questions. It is supposed to be Jesus' birthday, but we give gifts to children and tell them it's from a guy named Santa Claus............So, what gives? Matthew chapter 25 verses 35 - 40 talks about how whenever we give or do for others, no matter how unimportant they may seem, it's as though you are giving or doing it for Jesus. So, that kind of explains the spirit of giving and the gift giving at Christmas, but what about Santa Claus? The figure Santa Claus is actually based on Saint Nicholas, who was a Catholic Bishop in Myra which is near Finike, Turkey, in the 4th century. Saint Nicholas was born of a wealthy family. His parents died while he was young and he inherited a great sum of wealth. He didn't keep any of it for himself, but gave it to the poor. While he was still young, it was claimed that there were several miracles associated with Nicholas, so much so that he became known as Nicholas the wonder-worker. The people in Myra were so in awe of this selfless holy man who worked miracles that they insisted that he be their Bishop. Saint Nicholas' life was characterized by an unrelentless defense of the gospel. He spoke out against the Arian movement, and his boldness even landed him in prison and got him stripped of his title as bishop. During his life he was quite fond of anonymous giving. There was even a record of him helping three young girls to marry and avoid going into a life of prostitution, by sneaking through their window and putting sacks of gold into their stockings while they slept. During that era a dowry(fee) was required to marry. With every generation, Saint Nicholas' popularity grew and grew, and morphed into the legend of Santa Claus. So, we have the spirit of giving explained, and Saint Nicholas' association with anonymous giving explained. You put it all together and you have anonymous gift giving to one another as a way to give gifts to Jesus, and doing it anonymously under the guise of Santa Claus(Saint Nicholas). I hope this gives you a story to add to your holiday traditions. Merry CHRISTmas and a Happy New Year!!!
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Christmas Story
Summary
In a funny article on MSNBC , it tells about real life re-inactments of the scene on the 1983 movie 'The Christmas Story', where the boy gets his tongue stuck to an icey flag pole on a dare. Apparently this is a common occurance each year. It usually involves a firefighter with a warm glass of water to set the youngsters free. The injuries sustained is usually no more than a little bleeding from the tongue. This year a thirteen year boy in Hammond, Indiana got his tongue stuck on a pole, which is ironic because that is the city that the movie was based on.
Results
I thought this story is hilarious. When I was a kid I got my tongue stuck on a metal screen door. I have to admit it wasn't funny at the time, but when I think back it was very funny. I love that movie 'The Christmas Story'. I crack up laughing every time I watch it. Especially the little brother bundled up in the snow suit and scarf that can hardly talk or move, and then he falls down and can't get back up. I lived in Michigan when I was a kid, so I can relate to being that uncomfortably bundled. I've tried talking my kids into getting their tongues stuck on something metal, but I can never get them to fall for it.
In a funny article on MSNBC , it tells about real life re-inactments of the scene on the 1983 movie 'The Christmas Story', where the boy gets his tongue stuck to an icey flag pole on a dare. Apparently this is a common occurance each year. It usually involves a firefighter with a warm glass of water to set the youngsters free. The injuries sustained is usually no more than a little bleeding from the tongue. This year a thirteen year boy in Hammond, Indiana got his tongue stuck on a pole, which is ironic because that is the city that the movie was based on.
Results
I thought this story is hilarious. When I was a kid I got my tongue stuck on a metal screen door. I have to admit it wasn't funny at the time, but when I think back it was very funny. I love that movie 'The Christmas Story'. I crack up laughing every time I watch it. Especially the little brother bundled up in the snow suit and scarf that can hardly talk or move, and then he falls down and can't get back up. I lived in Michigan when I was a kid, so I can relate to being that uncomfortably bundled. I've tried talking my kids into getting their tongues stuck on something metal, but I can never get them to fall for it.
Friday, December 4, 2009
The Old Newsboys
Summary
On timesherald.com , is an article about a charitable organization's efforts to help families that are struggling during the holidays in the poor economy. In Port Huron, MI the Old Newsboys have been helping give gifts to children of low income families for Christmas since nineteen twenty seven. Last year the Old Newsboys provided two thousand children with shoes, socks, underwear, and other necessities. They hope to reach out to atleast twenty one hundred children this year. The recipients are children ranging from ages four to thirteen that have been referred to the Old Newsboys by the Department of Human Services.
Response
I am from Port Huron, MI and I was a a child of a low income home. When I was a kid I remember the Old Newsboys provided me with toys at Christmas time almost every year. All of us kids that were there would line up to see Santa, and afterwards we would go through and pick so many things that we wanted for Christmas, and then if by a miracle it would wind up wrapped up and under the tree on Christmas morning. The Old Newsboys used to also have a shoe program for kids going back to school, and I remember that most years that is where my brothers and I would get our school clothes from that program. The Old Newsboys are a God sent blessing to alot of children every year. They have been helping people for some eighty two years and I hope that they will be able to help people for many many more years to come.
On timesherald.com , is an article about a charitable organization's efforts to help families that are struggling during the holidays in the poor economy. In Port Huron, MI the Old Newsboys have been helping give gifts to children of low income families for Christmas since nineteen twenty seven. Last year the Old Newsboys provided two thousand children with shoes, socks, underwear, and other necessities. They hope to reach out to atleast twenty one hundred children this year. The recipients are children ranging from ages four to thirteen that have been referred to the Old Newsboys by the Department of Human Services.
Response
I am from Port Huron, MI and I was a a child of a low income home. When I was a kid I remember the Old Newsboys provided me with toys at Christmas time almost every year. All of us kids that were there would line up to see Santa, and afterwards we would go through and pick so many things that we wanted for Christmas, and then if by a miracle it would wind up wrapped up and under the tree on Christmas morning. The Old Newsboys used to also have a shoe program for kids going back to school, and I remember that most years that is where my brothers and I would get our school clothes from that program. The Old Newsboys are a God sent blessing to alot of children every year. They have been helping people for some eighty two years and I hope that they will be able to help people for many many more years to come.
Salvation Army Theft
Summary
On MSNBC.COM , is an article about a strong armed robbery of a Salvation Army bell ringer. Apparently a man grabbed a donation kettle, and when the bell ringer tried to hold on to the chain to stop the man, the man shoved her to the ground and said 'I hate you people and your bell ringing, and I hate Christmas!'. The man drove off in a truck which as it turns out, had been reported as stolen. The man was eventually caught, and both the truck and the kettle were recovered. Police Sergeant David Tullis said it was unknown how much money was in the kettle, but that the bell ringer believed it to be a large sum.
Response
This happening just disgusts me! There are alot of low life individuals in this world. The Salvation Army helps so many people, and so many people donate through the Salvation Army because they are such a reputable charitable institution, and for someone to directly attack such an institution is just disappointing to me. The article didn't state anything about the man's state of mind, but I have to believe he had some mental or emotional issues. I know that the holidays can be a hard time for lonely people or people grieving a loss, but it should definately should not be taken out on the poor bell ringers who are trying to collect money to help people. I am glad that this man was caught and I hope the authorities make an example of him, as to deter anyone else from trying such a thing again in the future.
On MSNBC.COM , is an article about a strong armed robbery of a Salvation Army bell ringer. Apparently a man grabbed a donation kettle, and when the bell ringer tried to hold on to the chain to stop the man, the man shoved her to the ground and said 'I hate you people and your bell ringing, and I hate Christmas!'. The man drove off in a truck which as it turns out, had been reported as stolen. The man was eventually caught, and both the truck and the kettle were recovered. Police Sergeant David Tullis said it was unknown how much money was in the kettle, but that the bell ringer believed it to be a large sum.
Response
This happening just disgusts me! There are alot of low life individuals in this world. The Salvation Army helps so many people, and so many people donate through the Salvation Army because they are such a reputable charitable institution, and for someone to directly attack such an institution is just disappointing to me. The article didn't state anything about the man's state of mind, but I have to believe he had some mental or emotional issues. I know that the holidays can be a hard time for lonely people or people grieving a loss, but it should definately should not be taken out on the poor bell ringers who are trying to collect money to help people. I am glad that this man was caught and I hope the authorities make an example of him, as to deter anyone else from trying such a thing again in the future.
A pic is worth a thousand words
Summary
In an article on MSNBC , it tells about a vain robber who seals his fate with a pic. A twenty year old woman was robbed by eighteen year old Kadeem Cook. Among the items taken was a cell phone. Apparently the woman had her phone set up to send any pictures taken, directly to her home computer. The robber in an attempt to look cool, took a picture of himself holding a gun by his head, using this woman's cell phone. When the woman received the picture on her computer, she turned it over to the authorities. The photo was released and the man was identified as Cook and an arrest warrant was issued for him. Shortly after the warrant was issued, Kadeem Cook turned himself into the police.
Response
I think that is awesome! I want to figure out how I can set mine up like that. It's hilarious that the little thug in his attempt to be cool, gave his picture to the victim. I bet when he seen the picture he had taken on television, I'm sure the light in his brain came on, and I'm sure he probably muttered some profanities. That's what he gets for being a hoodlum and preying upon hard working people who have earned what have, just so he can sit around getting 'high' and talking tough with his hoodlum friends instead of working and earning a living like everybody else. A young healthy eighteen year old man should be more than capable to work and afford his own cell phone instead of robbing it from a defenseless young woman.
In an article on MSNBC , it tells about a vain robber who seals his fate with a pic. A twenty year old woman was robbed by eighteen year old Kadeem Cook. Among the items taken was a cell phone. Apparently the woman had her phone set up to send any pictures taken, directly to her home computer. The robber in an attempt to look cool, took a picture of himself holding a gun by his head, using this woman's cell phone. When the woman received the picture on her computer, she turned it over to the authorities. The photo was released and the man was identified as Cook and an arrest warrant was issued for him. Shortly after the warrant was issued, Kadeem Cook turned himself into the police.
Response
I think that is awesome! I want to figure out how I can set mine up like that. It's hilarious that the little thug in his attempt to be cool, gave his picture to the victim. I bet when he seen the picture he had taken on television, I'm sure the light in his brain came on, and I'm sure he probably muttered some profanities. That's what he gets for being a hoodlum and preying upon hard working people who have earned what have, just so he can sit around getting 'high' and talking tough with his hoodlum friends instead of working and earning a living like everybody else. A young healthy eighteen year old man should be more than capable to work and afford his own cell phone instead of robbing it from a defenseless young woman.
Friday, November 27, 2009
One size fits all?
Summary
In an article on pointofview.net , it talked about some scenarios that have people worried about the President's pruposed health care plan. It started by stating the United States prevenative services task force's new mammography guidelines. Apparently, according to these new guidelines, it is not recommended for women under the age of fifty to receive the breast cancer screening procedure at all. Also, according to the guidelines, women fifty and up are only suposed to receive the screening every other year. Carrie Luckas, the vice president of policy and economics with 'Women's Forum', is concerned that under nationalized health care, these guidelines would be mandatory. She is worried that the government would adopt a 'one size fits all' approach to health care. Luckas is not so concerned with whether the guideline is correct, as she is that it would be the government making that decision, when it should be between a woman and her doctor.
Response
I agree completely with Carrie Luckas. The idea of the government making life, death, and health decisions about my life instead of me, just doesn't rub me the right way. I hardly think that when our forefathers wrote the bill of rights, and the preamble to the constitution, and the constitution itself, that absolute government soveignty over our lives right down to something as personal as our health care decisions, was what was on their minds. The part that really grabs me the wrong way, is the idea that the government could under Obama's plan, have the ultimate say over my kids' health and their healthcare. The more things that the goverment take control of, the less aspects of our own lives we get to decide on for ourselves. I know that there are alot of people who probably make foolish decisions, but I think that the goverments envolvement should be in educating people to make better more informed decisions. I don't think that taking over our decision making, and taking away our personal freedoms, is the answer to our healthcare problems.
In an article on pointofview.net , it talked about some scenarios that have people worried about the President's pruposed health care plan. It started by stating the United States prevenative services task force's new mammography guidelines. Apparently, according to these new guidelines, it is not recommended for women under the age of fifty to receive the breast cancer screening procedure at all. Also, according to the guidelines, women fifty and up are only suposed to receive the screening every other year. Carrie Luckas, the vice president of policy and economics with 'Women's Forum', is concerned that under nationalized health care, these guidelines would be mandatory. She is worried that the government would adopt a 'one size fits all' approach to health care. Luckas is not so concerned with whether the guideline is correct, as she is that it would be the government making that decision, when it should be between a woman and her doctor.
Response
I agree completely with Carrie Luckas. The idea of the government making life, death, and health decisions about my life instead of me, just doesn't rub me the right way. I hardly think that when our forefathers wrote the bill of rights, and the preamble to the constitution, and the constitution itself, that absolute government soveignty over our lives right down to something as personal as our health care decisions, was what was on their minds. The part that really grabs me the wrong way, is the idea that the government could under Obama's plan, have the ultimate say over my kids' health and their healthcare. The more things that the goverment take control of, the less aspects of our own lives we get to decide on for ourselves. I know that there are alot of people who probably make foolish decisions, but I think that the goverments envolvement should be in educating people to make better more informed decisions. I don't think that taking over our decision making, and taking away our personal freedoms, is the answer to our healthcare problems.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Holy Hip Hop
Summary
In an article on msnbc.com , it talks about a young entrepuneur who believes in gospel hip hop so much, that he sold his house to start his own gospel hip hop record label. In addition to the record label, he is also making a movie, and a tv show dedicated to promoting gospel hip hop. Gos pel hip hop has not got it's fair share of air time, because secular and christian radio stations alike, are afraid of offending people. The young entrepuneur Tervarius Black, age thirty four, believes that gospel hip hop's positive lyrics would really appeal to listeners of secular hip hop. The name of the record label is Xist. He has also started a gospel cruise which would allow for fans to mingle with gospel hip hop artists. Tervarius said 'We christians, but we like to party'.
Response
I love gospel hip hop! Gospel gangstas, Toby Mack, T Bone, KJ-52 are just a few of the many great gospel hip hop artists. I am glad to see that someone is taking the initiative to try and promote holy hip hop. Most gospel hip hop songs don't get played on the radio. Aside from purchasing the cd's or listening online, gospel hip hop is almost non-exsistent over radio air waves. My son likes rap, and I have given him several christian rap cd's and he loves them. Secular hip hop tends to have very negative lyrics. They try to glamorize robbing, stealing, and killing. Gospel hip hop maintains the hip hop beat but delivers more positive lyrics. I really like that this article states that Xist puts being true to the gospel message first in their hip hop.
In an article on msnbc.com , it talks about a young entrepuneur who believes in gospel hip hop so much, that he sold his house to start his own gospel hip hop record label. In addition to the record label, he is also making a movie, and a tv show dedicated to promoting gospel hip hop. Gos pel hip hop has not got it's fair share of air time, because secular and christian radio stations alike, are afraid of offending people. The young entrepuneur Tervarius Black, age thirty four, believes that gospel hip hop's positive lyrics would really appeal to listeners of secular hip hop. The name of the record label is Xist. He has also started a gospel cruise which would allow for fans to mingle with gospel hip hop artists. Tervarius said 'We christians, but we like to party'.
Response
I love gospel hip hop! Gospel gangstas, Toby Mack, T Bone, KJ-52 are just a few of the many great gospel hip hop artists. I am glad to see that someone is taking the initiative to try and promote holy hip hop. Most gospel hip hop songs don't get played on the radio. Aside from purchasing the cd's or listening online, gospel hip hop is almost non-exsistent over radio air waves. My son likes rap, and I have given him several christian rap cd's and he loves them. Secular hip hop tends to have very negative lyrics. They try to glamorize robbing, stealing, and killing. Gospel hip hop maintains the hip hop beat but delivers more positive lyrics. I really like that this article states that Xist puts being true to the gospel message first in their hip hop.
Woman loses benefits over facebook photo
Summary
In an article on msnbc.com , it told about a woman from Bromont, Quebec who lost her long term sick leave benefits over a photo on her facebook page. She had been on sick leave from her job at IBM in Bromont, Quebec for the last year. She was diagnosed with major depression and was receiving weekly sick leave benefits. When an insurance agent from Manulife saw a photo of this woman having a good time, on her facebook page, they stopped paying her the weekly sick leave benefits. Apparently the photos included pictures of her on vacation and also at a Chippendales bar for her birthday party. The woman claimed that she was trying to have fun under the recommendation of the doctor who was treating her for her major depression.
Response
I think the idea of a paid sick leave for depression is 'iffy' anyhow. Depression is a very easy thing to fake and a very hard thing to disprove since it lies within the mind of the individual. I can see why a insurance company would be skeptical. But with that said, an insurance agent is hardly qualified to diagnose a persons mental well being based on a picture, and their assessment of that persons mental health should hardly override the diagnosis of a doctor of psychology who had been treating this woman. If this woman takes the insurance company to court, I would think she should win hands down. The idea of employers and insurance companies, and various other institutions prying into a persons personal facebook account just creeps me out. I would feel totally violated if it were me. I use my facebook to vent about work and everything else. My employer or anybody affiliated with my employer, would be the last people that I would want to see my facebook posts.
In an article on msnbc.com , it told about a woman from Bromont, Quebec who lost her long term sick leave benefits over a photo on her facebook page. She had been on sick leave from her job at IBM in Bromont, Quebec for the last year. She was diagnosed with major depression and was receiving weekly sick leave benefits. When an insurance agent from Manulife saw a photo of this woman having a good time, on her facebook page, they stopped paying her the weekly sick leave benefits. Apparently the photos included pictures of her on vacation and also at a Chippendales bar for her birthday party. The woman claimed that she was trying to have fun under the recommendation of the doctor who was treating her for her major depression.
Response
I think the idea of a paid sick leave for depression is 'iffy' anyhow. Depression is a very easy thing to fake and a very hard thing to disprove since it lies within the mind of the individual. I can see why a insurance company would be skeptical. But with that said, an insurance agent is hardly qualified to diagnose a persons mental well being based on a picture, and their assessment of that persons mental health should hardly override the diagnosis of a doctor of psychology who had been treating this woman. If this woman takes the insurance company to court, I would think she should win hands down. The idea of employers and insurance companies, and various other institutions prying into a persons personal facebook account just creeps me out. I would feel totally violated if it were me. I use my facebook to vent about work and everything else. My employer or anybody affiliated with my employer, would be the last people that I would want to see my facebook posts.
New Moon delivers.....six packs
Summary
In an article on associatedcontent.com , was a review of the movie 'New Moon'. It told of how the movie did a good job in following along with the book. It also praised the movies display of shirtless men. The article covered the basic story line of the movie. It told about how Edward left Bella because he feared for her safety among vampires after her close call with Jasper, after a drop of blood from her paper cut set him off in a blood crazed frenzy. It also told about how Jacob Black took care of Bella while she was in a deep depression about Edward leaving. There was also a section of the article which paid tribute to the gratuitous shirtless scenes of the muscled up Jacob Black. The article stated that his body was 'amazing', and told about the reaction of approval from the ladies in the audience. The article described the movie as a classic story of a star crossed love triangle between the girl next door and a vampire & a werewolf.
Response
I personally saw this movie and I loved it. I have not read the books, but I did watch the first movie 'Twilight'. The movie really draws you into the lives of the characters. It is a very emotional tale of love and pain......and yes Jacob was hot with or without his shirt off. I couldn't believe that Bella chose the pale anorexic Edward over the tan beefy Jacob, but to each their own. I think that this article touched base on some of the finer points of the movie, but I think it still left so much to the imagination if the reader was not familiar with the Twilight saga. I personally recommend Twilight and New Moon to anybody who has not seen them. They really cover the spectrum of genres. There's action, comedy, suspense, romance, drama. New Moon has it all. I can't wait for the next installment in the saga 'Eclipse'. I'm a big fan of vampire and werewolf movies, and this saga puts an entirely different spin on the mythical monsters.
In an article on associatedcontent.com , was a review of the movie 'New Moon'. It told of how the movie did a good job in following along with the book. It also praised the movies display of shirtless men. The article covered the basic story line of the movie. It told about how Edward left Bella because he feared for her safety among vampires after her close call with Jasper, after a drop of blood from her paper cut set him off in a blood crazed frenzy. It also told about how Jacob Black took care of Bella while she was in a deep depression about Edward leaving. There was also a section of the article which paid tribute to the gratuitous shirtless scenes of the muscled up Jacob Black. The article stated that his body was 'amazing', and told about the reaction of approval from the ladies in the audience. The article described the movie as a classic story of a star crossed love triangle between the girl next door and a vampire & a werewolf.
Response
I personally saw this movie and I loved it. I have not read the books, but I did watch the first movie 'Twilight'. The movie really draws you into the lives of the characters. It is a very emotional tale of love and pain......and yes Jacob was hot with or without his shirt off. I couldn't believe that Bella chose the pale anorexic Edward over the tan beefy Jacob, but to each their own. I think that this article touched base on some of the finer points of the movie, but I think it still left so much to the imagination if the reader was not familiar with the Twilight saga. I personally recommend Twilight and New Moon to anybody who has not seen them. They really cover the spectrum of genres. There's action, comedy, suspense, romance, drama. New Moon has it all. I can't wait for the next installment in the saga 'Eclipse'. I'm a big fan of vampire and werewolf movies, and this saga puts an entirely different spin on the mythical monsters.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Eat a burger for a good cause
Summary
In an article on thetimeshearld.com , was the inspiring story about a group effort between Bridge builders mentoring & counseling inc. and local fastfood restuarants in Port Huron, MI to help provide free counseling for single parent families. Several local burger joints are donating a dollar from each burger sold to Bridge Builders to help with the cost of providing free counseling to single parent families. Bridge Builders also provides mentoring for boys. The purpose of the program is to offset the effects of a single parent home life on our future generation.
Response
I think that any time a local business or a group of businesses give back to the community that they serve, it bumps their image up in my book. I am a firm believer in the need for two parents. Rather one of those parents are step parents or not, I think it is important to have a mother and father present in the home. I think that it is a great thing Bridge Builders is doing to help families lacking one parent to beat the odds. I am especially proud of some of the burger joints named in the article, and plan to visit most or all of them on my next trip up to Port Huron. I don't feel guilty about the fat and cholesterol so much, because it's for a good cause.
In an article on thetimeshearld.com , was the inspiring story about a group effort between Bridge builders mentoring & counseling inc. and local fastfood restuarants in Port Huron, MI to help provide free counseling for single parent families. Several local burger joints are donating a dollar from each burger sold to Bridge Builders to help with the cost of providing free counseling to single parent families. Bridge Builders also provides mentoring for boys. The purpose of the program is to offset the effects of a single parent home life on our future generation.
Response
I think that any time a local business or a group of businesses give back to the community that they serve, it bumps their image up in my book. I am a firm believer in the need for two parents. Rather one of those parents are step parents or not, I think it is important to have a mother and father present in the home. I think that it is a great thing Bridge Builders is doing to help families lacking one parent to beat the odds. I am especially proud of some of the burger joints named in the article, and plan to visit most or all of them on my next trip up to Port Huron. I don't feel guilty about the fat and cholesterol so much, because it's for a good cause.
Goodbye old friend
Summary & Response
This is not really a news article, it is the obituary of a good friend of mine growing up. Him and I went to junior high and high school together. We also hung out together well into my mid twenties. We have not hung out much in the last ten years. Life seems to have a way of consuming your free time as you get older. You never realize how much you miss hanging out with someone until they've passed on to the everafter. Charlie was an easy going guy. I've never had a cross word with him as long as I can remember. It's funny, but everytime I work on english schoolwork, I think of Charlie. In high school, I used to sit next to him in english and I would copy off of him. Charlie had an emotionless look about him and he would talk slow. People who didn't know him, probably thought that he wasn't that bright. Those of us who knew Charlie, knew better. Charlie was very smart. He was always upbeat. I don't think I've ever heard him complain or speak negatively. We were quite the helleans back in the day. We got away with so much stuff, that I'm suprised we never did real hard time. Where we grew up, the gang scene was pretty prominent. We were both a part of a chapter of the crips called O.C.G. O.C.G. stands for out cold gangstas. Looking back on the whole gang thing, it was quite silly. I'm actually struggling to keep my oldest son out of the gang scene. Some of the greatest times of my life was hanging with my homeboys in O.C.G though. Charlie always had my back. Him and I have been in some pretty good scrapes together. We've done more than our fair shar of partying too. Just knowing that Charlie and I will never be kicking back pitchers of beer together and bragging about the girls looking our way, really saddens me, but I hope that this tribute blog will carry on the essence of my homeboy Charlie.
This is not really a news article, it is the obituary of a good friend of mine growing up. Him and I went to junior high and high school together. We also hung out together well into my mid twenties. We have not hung out much in the last ten years. Life seems to have a way of consuming your free time as you get older. You never realize how much you miss hanging out with someone until they've passed on to the everafter. Charlie was an easy going guy. I've never had a cross word with him as long as I can remember. It's funny, but everytime I work on english schoolwork, I think of Charlie. In high school, I used to sit next to him in english and I would copy off of him. Charlie had an emotionless look about him and he would talk slow. People who didn't know him, probably thought that he wasn't that bright. Those of us who knew Charlie, knew better. Charlie was very smart. He was always upbeat. I don't think I've ever heard him complain or speak negatively. We were quite the helleans back in the day. We got away with so much stuff, that I'm suprised we never did real hard time. Where we grew up, the gang scene was pretty prominent. We were both a part of a chapter of the crips called O.C.G. O.C.G. stands for out cold gangstas. Looking back on the whole gang thing, it was quite silly. I'm actually struggling to keep my oldest son out of the gang scene. Some of the greatest times of my life was hanging with my homeboys in O.C.G though. Charlie always had my back. Him and I have been in some pretty good scrapes together. We've done more than our fair shar of partying too. Just knowing that Charlie and I will never be kicking back pitchers of beer together and bragging about the girls looking our way, really saddens me, but I hope that this tribute blog will carry on the essence of my homeboy Charlie.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Domestic partnership okay with Washington
Summary
In a story on MSNBC , it talked about a domestic partnership measure that was passed in Washington state. The measure is known as the 'Everything but marriage' law. The law allows for gay couples to enjoy many of the benefits previously only enjoyed by married couples. It is the first time any state has voted in favor of a gay equality measure on a ballot. The measure was actually an extension to the state's exsisting domestic partnership legislation, allowing more joint benefits for registered domestic partners. It was a very close decision, winning with fifty two percent of the votes.
Response
I think that this should serve as an example for a compromise between the differing views on gay marriage. I personally donot agree with gay marriage, for the simple fact that the institutuion of marriage is religious inspired, and I believe that the government does not and should not have the power to amend it to be between anything but a man and a woman as intended in its religious roots. It would be a violation of the seperation of church and state. With that said, I do however agree completely with domestic partnerships and I feel that most people feel the same. If a man and a man, or a woman and a woman, are in love and want to be together, in a free country they should be allowed to. I also think that if they are in a legally commited relationship, they should enjoy the joint marital tax breaks.
In a story on MSNBC , it talked about a domestic partnership measure that was passed in Washington state. The measure is known as the 'Everything but marriage' law. The law allows for gay couples to enjoy many of the benefits previously only enjoyed by married couples. It is the first time any state has voted in favor of a gay equality measure on a ballot. The measure was actually an extension to the state's exsisting domestic partnership legislation, allowing more joint benefits for registered domestic partners. It was a very close decision, winning with fifty two percent of the votes.
Response
I think that this should serve as an example for a compromise between the differing views on gay marriage. I personally donot agree with gay marriage, for the simple fact that the institutuion of marriage is religious inspired, and I believe that the government does not and should not have the power to amend it to be between anything but a man and a woman as intended in its religious roots. It would be a violation of the seperation of church and state. With that said, I do however agree completely with domestic partnerships and I feel that most people feel the same. If a man and a man, or a woman and a woman, are in love and want to be together, in a free country they should be allowed to. I also think that if they are in a legally commited relationship, they should enjoy the joint marital tax breaks.
Big goverment agenda
Summary
In a story on MSNBC , it talks mainly of feuding between republicans and democrats, but it makes some great points. The republicans claim that the democrats are more concerned with furthering their big government agenda and over-seeing healthcare then they are about the wants of the American people thay are suposed to be representing. The democrats claim that the republicans just want to undermine the healthcare reform as a way to break the president. The republicans claim that the recent election results in which a couple democrat governors were replaced by their republican opponents, was a sign of the unhappiness of americans with the big push by the democrat administration to take control of healthcare.
Response
I have to agree with the republicans on this one. If you have read very many of my blogs, you can probably tell by now that agree with republicans most of the time. Really the key difference between the two parties is the following: Democrats favor socialism. They want the government to have a hand in everything. They want to provide for all your needs, but they want to take all of your money to pay for it. They think that the people don't know how to decide things for themselves so they want to control your lives much like a communist regime. The republicans favor a small government which results in lower taxes. They believe in capitalism, econimic competitiveness in a free market society. They believe that americans should be free to pursue life, liberty, and happiness with little interference from the government. With that said, I think the democrat administration should take their nationalized healthcare and big government, and shove it!
In a story on MSNBC , it talks mainly of feuding between republicans and democrats, but it makes some great points. The republicans claim that the democrats are more concerned with furthering their big government agenda and over-seeing healthcare then they are about the wants of the American people thay are suposed to be representing. The democrats claim that the republicans just want to undermine the healthcare reform as a way to break the president. The republicans claim that the recent election results in which a couple democrat governors were replaced by their republican opponents, was a sign of the unhappiness of americans with the big push by the democrat administration to take control of healthcare.
Response
I have to agree with the republicans on this one. If you have read very many of my blogs, you can probably tell by now that agree with republicans most of the time. Really the key difference between the two parties is the following: Democrats favor socialism. They want the government to have a hand in everything. They want to provide for all your needs, but they want to take all of your money to pay for it. They think that the people don't know how to decide things for themselves so they want to control your lives much like a communist regime. The republicans favor a small government which results in lower taxes. They believe in capitalism, econimic competitiveness in a free market society. They believe that americans should be free to pursue life, liberty, and happiness with little interference from the government. With that said, I think the democrat administration should take their nationalized healthcare and big government, and shove it!
Obama wins.....but I think we lost!
Summary
In a story on MSNBC , it states 'Obama wins!' in reference to his healthcare bill's success in the house. The article talks about how this healthcare reform is the defining charachteristic of President Obama's administration. It also brings up the interesting points about Obama's lack of expedience towards a decision on Afgahnastan, and also his seeming lack of interest in the nations economic concerns. The article also mentioned that Democratic party is concerned about their popularity amongst the big push for this healthcare reform. The two Democratic governors who have been replaced in the recent election by their republican opponents, has spooked some democrats that there administration is in trouble. Thirty nine democrats voted against the healthcare bill.
Response
If nationalized healthcare is the defining characteristic of the Obama presidency, then it is my question 'Why did we vote this guy in?'. National healthcare is just a goverment guarentee to the over priced medical industry, that they will get paid. It is not 'free', the costs will be absorbed by the american people in the raising of income taxes. In countries that currently have national healthcare, the income taxes are as high as sixty percent compared to our current thirty percent. I don't know about most Americans, but I know my family can't withstand a thirty percent increase in income taxes. Not to mention that the country is already in poor financial shape as it is, I would think the last thing a president should be striving for, is to reduce the amount of the average american's take home pay. But that is the nature of the political game, the medical industry was one of the backers of the largest donations based campaigns in history, and now Obama has to scratch there back.
In a story on MSNBC , it states 'Obama wins!' in reference to his healthcare bill's success in the house. The article talks about how this healthcare reform is the defining charachteristic of President Obama's administration. It also brings up the interesting points about Obama's lack of expedience towards a decision on Afgahnastan, and also his seeming lack of interest in the nations economic concerns. The article also mentioned that Democratic party is concerned about their popularity amongst the big push for this healthcare reform. The two Democratic governors who have been replaced in the recent election by their republican opponents, has spooked some democrats that there administration is in trouble. Thirty nine democrats voted against the healthcare bill.
Response
If nationalized healthcare is the defining characteristic of the Obama presidency, then it is my question 'Why did we vote this guy in?'. National healthcare is just a goverment guarentee to the over priced medical industry, that they will get paid. It is not 'free', the costs will be absorbed by the american people in the raising of income taxes. In countries that currently have national healthcare, the income taxes are as high as sixty percent compared to our current thirty percent. I don't know about most Americans, but I know my family can't withstand a thirty percent increase in income taxes. Not to mention that the country is already in poor financial shape as it is, I would think the last thing a president should be striving for, is to reduce the amount of the average american's take home pay. But that is the nature of the political game, the medical industry was one of the backers of the largest donations based campaigns in history, and now Obama has to scratch there back.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Surfing the internet can keep your brain young
Summary
In a story on cbn.com , there is an interesting story about the effects of surfing the internet on the brain. According to the article, using the Internet can help keep your brain "young," according to a new study by the University of California. Researchers found that older adults between fifty five and seventy eight, who began surfing the Web, improved their brain function after only a few days. They say using the Internet is interactive, and that it stimulates more activity in the part of the brain that makes decisions. Doctors say engaging in cognitive activities might be a way to protect against dementia.
Response
As someone who enjoys surfing the internet, I find the idea that it may be good for me, very refreshing. With all the bad rap giving to the internet and other technological advancements, such as cell phones and so on, I like hearing that there are positive effects, even if it is on a sub-concious neurological level. My personal observations is that it would also help with reflex and hand-eye coordination, from the use of the mouse and the whole seek and click aspect of web surfing. It amazes me how fast something can become so ingrained into our society so quickly, that you can barely remember what it was like before computers. When I was younger, computers were just not prevelant. If there was a computer, it was stashed away somewhere for accounting purposes, but now everything is computer based it seems.
In a story on cbn.com , there is an interesting story about the effects of surfing the internet on the brain. According to the article, using the Internet can help keep your brain "young," according to a new study by the University of California. Researchers found that older adults between fifty five and seventy eight, who began surfing the Web, improved their brain function after only a few days. They say using the Internet is interactive, and that it stimulates more activity in the part of the brain that makes decisions. Doctors say engaging in cognitive activities might be a way to protect against dementia.
Response
As someone who enjoys surfing the internet, I find the idea that it may be good for me, very refreshing. With all the bad rap giving to the internet and other technological advancements, such as cell phones and so on, I like hearing that there are positive effects, even if it is on a sub-concious neurological level. My personal observations is that it would also help with reflex and hand-eye coordination, from the use of the mouse and the whole seek and click aspect of web surfing. It amazes me how fast something can become so ingrained into our society so quickly, that you can barely remember what it was like before computers. When I was younger, computers were just not prevelant. If there was a computer, it was stashed away somewhere for accounting purposes, but now everything is computer based it seems.
Swine flu declared national emergency?
Summary
In a story on cbn.com , it tells of how President Obama has declared the H1N1 flu to be a national emergency. The article says that in doing so, President Obama has greatly increased Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius' power to bypass federal laws in establishing offsite clinics. The government now hopes for fifty million doses of the H1N1 flu vaccinations by mid-November and one hundred fifty million doses by December. Though the numbers are not exact, because hospitals have been treating most cases involving flu symptoms as the swine flu and not testing the strand, It is estimated that there has been twenty thousand hospitalized, and one thousand deaths due to the H1N1 flu strand. The purpose of the move by President Obama is suppose to try and speed up the process of treatment and vaccinations, and to reduce the chance of spreading to uninfected patients in onsite healthcare facilities.
Response
While I donot like to hear of any number of deaths due to illness, I have to say that the swine flu has not in any way, shape, or form reached a level that should warrant being a national emergency. In the article, it stated that there has been twenty thousand hospitalized and one thousand deaths due to the swine flu. On the site flufacts.com , it reports that between forty and fifty MILLION cases of the regular flu are reported each year, leading to one hundred and fifty thousand people being hospitalized every single year, and between thirty and forty thousand deaths every year. All I hear now days is swine flu this and H1N1 that, and did you hear that so and so got the swine flu. This whole thing is just some politically charged media driven load of you know what, and yet it has lead to the most aggressive vaccination campaign in history. I just have to say that it is my opinion, that President Obama is a very deceptive trickster. He is dodging the issues concerning Afgahnastan, and by slight of hand he is diverting attention state side with a phoney 'National Emergency'. If anything warrants a state of panic, based on the cold hard facts and statistics, it should be the regular flu, but nobody ever really even gives the flu a second thought. It is amazing to me, how dispite a lack of evidence, and with true facts to the contrary readily available, a whole nation of people can be pushed into a state of paranoia and fear, by a presidentially endorsed media spin on things.
In a story on cbn.com , it tells of how President Obama has declared the H1N1 flu to be a national emergency. The article says that in doing so, President Obama has greatly increased Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius' power to bypass federal laws in establishing offsite clinics. The government now hopes for fifty million doses of the H1N1 flu vaccinations by mid-November and one hundred fifty million doses by December. Though the numbers are not exact, because hospitals have been treating most cases involving flu symptoms as the swine flu and not testing the strand, It is estimated that there has been twenty thousand hospitalized, and one thousand deaths due to the H1N1 flu strand. The purpose of the move by President Obama is suppose to try and speed up the process of treatment and vaccinations, and to reduce the chance of spreading to uninfected patients in onsite healthcare facilities.
Response
While I donot like to hear of any number of deaths due to illness, I have to say that the swine flu has not in any way, shape, or form reached a level that should warrant being a national emergency. In the article, it stated that there has been twenty thousand hospitalized and one thousand deaths due to the swine flu. On the site flufacts.com , it reports that between forty and fifty MILLION cases of the regular flu are reported each year, leading to one hundred and fifty thousand people being hospitalized every single year, and between thirty and forty thousand deaths every year. All I hear now days is swine flu this and H1N1 that, and did you hear that so and so got the swine flu. This whole thing is just some politically charged media driven load of you know what, and yet it has lead to the most aggressive vaccination campaign in history. I just have to say that it is my opinion, that President Obama is a very deceptive trickster. He is dodging the issues concerning Afgahnastan, and by slight of hand he is diverting attention state side with a phoney 'National Emergency'. If anything warrants a state of panic, based on the cold hard facts and statistics, it should be the regular flu, but nobody ever really even gives the flu a second thought. It is amazing to me, how dispite a lack of evidence, and with true facts to the contrary readily available, a whole nation of people can be pushed into a state of paranoia and fear, by a presidentially endorsed media spin on things.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
TXTIN N DRVIN?
Summary
In a story on thetimesherald.com , there was an article about a test, where teenagers drove through an obstacle coarse, first with goggles which simulated drunk driving, and then were told to text three pre-determined text messages while driving. Apparently, according to the article, the teens had more trouble with the texting and driving then they did with the simulated drunk driving. The article exclaims, that if cones were people, these teens would be in some big trouble. The test took place at the UDrivesafe academy in Kimball Township, in Port Huron, Mi. It was sponsered by several organizations which promote safe driving.
Response
I can't say that I agree with the portrayal of this test. I myself have texted an drove on many occasions, and although I'm not proud of it, I have drank and drove. With that said, although there is danger associated with texting and driving, it does not hold a candle to drinking and driving. I can appreciate groups trying to thwart texting and driving, but I think that exaggerating the whole thing, they are being counter productive. Anybody who has texted and drove, can see the exaggerated expression of the results of this test in this article, atleast that is my opinion, and when you manipulate the facts, you lose the trust of your target audience, and I think that teens will see through the tactics of some of these organizations, regardless of their good intentions. Just a thought.....
In a story on thetimesherald.com , there was an article about a test, where teenagers drove through an obstacle coarse, first with goggles which simulated drunk driving, and then were told to text three pre-determined text messages while driving. Apparently, according to the article, the teens had more trouble with the texting and driving then they did with the simulated drunk driving. The article exclaims, that if cones were people, these teens would be in some big trouble. The test took place at the UDrivesafe academy in Kimball Township, in Port Huron, Mi. It was sponsered by several organizations which promote safe driving.
Response
I can't say that I agree with the portrayal of this test. I myself have texted an drove on many occasions, and although I'm not proud of it, I have drank and drove. With that said, although there is danger associated with texting and driving, it does not hold a candle to drinking and driving. I can appreciate groups trying to thwart texting and driving, but I think that exaggerating the whole thing, they are being counter productive. Anybody who has texted and drove, can see the exaggerated expression of the results of this test in this article, atleast that is my opinion, and when you manipulate the facts, you lose the trust of your target audience, and I think that teens will see through the tactics of some of these organizations, regardless of their good intentions. Just a thought.....
The exciting sport of muzzleloaders?
Summary
In a story on homernews.com , there is a story about a muzzleloader shooting competition in Homer, Alaska. Apparently, there were a bunch of pistol shooters, shooting at a firing range next to where the muzzleloader competition was taking place. The sounds of the musket balls exploding out of the muzzleloaders drew the attention of the pistol shooters, who then became spectators to the event. One of the people in the competition, was the president of the Alaska muzzleloaders rifle association and former Michigan State University football player Keith Bayha. He became involved in muzzleloader shooting and competing at the age of fourty, after realizing that he was getting to old to compete in contact sports, muzzleloading offered a lower impact form of competition.
Response
I had been thinking about purchasing a muzzleloader myself, to extend my deer hunting season, by getting in on the bow & muzzleloader seasons as well as the usual firearms season. This article really spruced up the idea of muzzleloading in my mind. Aside from how a muzzleloader is loaded, it sounds as much fun as shooting modern firearms. Hearing about the accuracy of some of these primative firearms, some of which were used, were actually from the eighteen hundreds, really peaked my interest. One might wonder, why I chose an article from a local newspaper from Homer, Alaska. It is somewhat a dream, or maybe a fantasy rather, of mine, to live in Alaska, to tackle the wilderness of Alaska. I'd like to hike through the mountains, and fish the inland lakes, and hunt elk, moose, deer, and maybe even brown bear. Maybe someday it'll be a reality, but until then I've always got the internet and search engines.
In a story on homernews.com , there is a story about a muzzleloader shooting competition in Homer, Alaska. Apparently, there were a bunch of pistol shooters, shooting at a firing range next to where the muzzleloader competition was taking place. The sounds of the musket balls exploding out of the muzzleloaders drew the attention of the pistol shooters, who then became spectators to the event. One of the people in the competition, was the president of the Alaska muzzleloaders rifle association and former Michigan State University football player Keith Bayha. He became involved in muzzleloader shooting and competing at the age of fourty, after realizing that he was getting to old to compete in contact sports, muzzleloading offered a lower impact form of competition.
Response
I had been thinking about purchasing a muzzleloader myself, to extend my deer hunting season, by getting in on the bow & muzzleloader seasons as well as the usual firearms season. This article really spruced up the idea of muzzleloading in my mind. Aside from how a muzzleloader is loaded, it sounds as much fun as shooting modern firearms. Hearing about the accuracy of some of these primative firearms, some of which were used, were actually from the eighteen hundreds, really peaked my interest. One might wonder, why I chose an article from a local newspaper from Homer, Alaska. It is somewhat a dream, or maybe a fantasy rather, of mine, to live in Alaska, to tackle the wilderness of Alaska. I'd like to hike through the mountains, and fish the inland lakes, and hunt elk, moose, deer, and maybe even brown bear. Maybe someday it'll be a reality, but until then I've always got the internet and search engines.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Real men do buy women flowers
Summary
In a story on cnn.com , is a great and very true story about the time tested, and highly effective, manly art of buying flowers for the women we men love. It is told from the perspective of the writer, and about how he learned of the importance of treating the woman you love right, from how his father treated his mother. There is a very touching part, about how on his death bed, his father arranged for one last gift to be delivered to his mother, and it arrived just moments after he had passed on. The story stepped up and declared the relevence of flower buying, even in a sexual equality driven society, and told of how it did not represent the barbaric male chauvenistic past, but was a symbol of our thoughtfulness toward the women we love. It spoke of women's fear about men's obvious short attention spans, and that we would forget things such as birthdays and anniversaries, and that flowers would serve as a great comforting remider, that they are continually in our hearts and minds.
Response
I could not agree more! I am a die-hard romantic, and on a daily basis, I try to think of ways to display my love to my wife. I literally teared up during the part of the story, where the mother received one last gift from the father, moments after he had passed away. I donot think, in any way, shape, or form, that giving flowers would in any way imply women to be the weaker sex, no more than I think it would immasculate a man to be the primary initiator in the romantic portion of a relationship. There is still something to be said for romantic courtship, even long after the 'I do's". I think that if more men, would step up and be men, and consistently display their love for their wives, and instill that in their sons, and likewise with mothers and there daughters, divorce statistics probably would not be as bad as they are now days.
In a story on cnn.com , is a great and very true story about the time tested, and highly effective, manly art of buying flowers for the women we men love. It is told from the perspective of the writer, and about how he learned of the importance of treating the woman you love right, from how his father treated his mother. There is a very touching part, about how on his death bed, his father arranged for one last gift to be delivered to his mother, and it arrived just moments after he had passed on. The story stepped up and declared the relevence of flower buying, even in a sexual equality driven society, and told of how it did not represent the barbaric male chauvenistic past, but was a symbol of our thoughtfulness toward the women we love. It spoke of women's fear about men's obvious short attention spans, and that we would forget things such as birthdays and anniversaries, and that flowers would serve as a great comforting remider, that they are continually in our hearts and minds.
Response
I could not agree more! I am a die-hard romantic, and on a daily basis, I try to think of ways to display my love to my wife. I literally teared up during the part of the story, where the mother received one last gift from the father, moments after he had passed away. I donot think, in any way, shape, or form, that giving flowers would in any way imply women to be the weaker sex, no more than I think it would immasculate a man to be the primary initiator in the romantic portion of a relationship. There is still something to be said for romantic courtship, even long after the 'I do's". I think that if more men, would step up and be men, and consistently display their love for their wives, and instill that in their sons, and likewise with mothers and there daughters, divorce statistics probably would not be as bad as they are now days.
Gun sales go boom
Summary
In a story in the Beaverton Valley Times , it talks mainly about memberships in a popular gun club increasing greatly with the political administration change, but it also touched base on an increase in gun sales. The story portrays that a fear of law changes could take away our gun purchasing privelages, and so they are stock piling them. Also it talks of woes about the nations economic state, and the fear of being robbed by those who have been displaced for their jobs, and are desperate to provide for their families. The story starts to go back and forth with whether or not peoples worries are justified, and even implies that those who sell guns might be pushing untruthful information in order to keep gun sales high. According to the article, some companies are struggling to keep up with the increased sales that have been driven by the nations fears of the unknown.
Response
I've read some of President Obama's statements about gun control, mostly statements made before his presidencey, and I too get that same feeling that he is a threat to our second amendment rights. I went from only having a shotgun for hunting, to purchasing a rifle and two handguns in addition to my shotgun, just because I sense a change coming. I had somebody break into my house less than six months ago, while we were home, with my wife and kids asleep in their beds, and I had to physically throw the guy out. I live in a decent neighborhood, and my neighbor who has lived in my neighborhood for fifty years, said nothing like that has ever happened before. Things are definately getting noticeably worse. How much of the economic woes is actually media induced panic, and how much is real, I don't know, but I do know that people are responding. I have a wife and six kids, and if stuff takes a turn for the worse, then I want to be prepared. And yes, I have been trying to stock pile before the gun purchase laws change, if they do, so I guess I'm a part of the amped up gun purchasing statistics fueled by political and economic woes.
In a story in the Beaverton Valley Times , it talks mainly about memberships in a popular gun club increasing greatly with the political administration change, but it also touched base on an increase in gun sales. The story portrays that a fear of law changes could take away our gun purchasing privelages, and so they are stock piling them. Also it talks of woes about the nations economic state, and the fear of being robbed by those who have been displaced for their jobs, and are desperate to provide for their families. The story starts to go back and forth with whether or not peoples worries are justified, and even implies that those who sell guns might be pushing untruthful information in order to keep gun sales high. According to the article, some companies are struggling to keep up with the increased sales that have been driven by the nations fears of the unknown.
Response
I've read some of President Obama's statements about gun control, mostly statements made before his presidencey, and I too get that same feeling that he is a threat to our second amendment rights. I went from only having a shotgun for hunting, to purchasing a rifle and two handguns in addition to my shotgun, just because I sense a change coming. I had somebody break into my house less than six months ago, while we were home, with my wife and kids asleep in their beds, and I had to physically throw the guy out. I live in a decent neighborhood, and my neighbor who has lived in my neighborhood for fifty years, said nothing like that has ever happened before. Things are definately getting noticeably worse. How much of the economic woes is actually media induced panic, and how much is real, I don't know, but I do know that people are responding. I have a wife and six kids, and if stuff takes a turn for the worse, then I want to be prepared. And yes, I have been trying to stock pile before the gun purchase laws change, if they do, so I guess I'm a part of the amped up gun purchasing statistics fueled by political and economic woes.
Hunters help the hungry
Summary
In a story on ohio.com , there is an ispirational story of goodwill towards men.....and women. Apparently there is a ministry, which began in Maryland, that has spread throughout half the nation already. This ministry allows hunters to donate their deer and other game, to food banks, and they even raise money to cover the butchering costs. The successful hunters bring their game to the ministry designated butcher shops to be processed, the ministry pays for the processing with money raised through donations, and then the frozen packages of meat are distributed to food banks, where they goto families in need. This paticular article tells about the ohio branch of this ministry. The ministry is called 'Farmers and hunters feeding the hungry', and they work in conjunction with the Ohio department of wildlife.
Response
I think that this is a great ministry! I love hearing about communities pulling together and helping out one another. I am a hunter, and the idea that I could do what I love, and at the same time, be helping out families in need, and putting meat on their tables as well, just makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. I have not yet heard of this ministry being implemented in Missouri as of yet, but I know alot of people, who would be as excited as I am to jump in and help. In case any were wondering how I stumbled upon ohio.com, being here in missouri. There was actually a link to it on the NRA.org website. I know that with grocery stores and all the modern conviences, the idea of hunting for your food probably sounds primitive, but there is a feeling of accomplishment when you provide meat for a family the old fashion way.
In a story on ohio.com , there is an ispirational story of goodwill towards men.....and women. Apparently there is a ministry, which began in Maryland, that has spread throughout half the nation already. This ministry allows hunters to donate their deer and other game, to food banks, and they even raise money to cover the butchering costs. The successful hunters bring their game to the ministry designated butcher shops to be processed, the ministry pays for the processing with money raised through donations, and then the frozen packages of meat are distributed to food banks, where they goto families in need. This paticular article tells about the ohio branch of this ministry. The ministry is called 'Farmers and hunters feeding the hungry', and they work in conjunction with the Ohio department of wildlife.
Response
I think that this is a great ministry! I love hearing about communities pulling together and helping out one another. I am a hunter, and the idea that I could do what I love, and at the same time, be helping out families in need, and putting meat on their tables as well, just makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. I have not yet heard of this ministry being implemented in Missouri as of yet, but I know alot of people, who would be as excited as I am to jump in and help. In case any were wondering how I stumbled upon ohio.com, being here in missouri. There was actually a link to it on the NRA.org website. I know that with grocery stores and all the modern conviences, the idea of hunting for your food probably sounds primitive, but there is a feeling of accomplishment when you provide meat for a family the old fashion way.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Gay rights activists march on Washington D.C.
Summary
In a story on cnn.com , it talks about gay rights activists, headed up by Judy Shepard, the mother of the murdered gay teenager Matthew Shepard, and how they have taken their protests to Washington D.C.. Judy Shepard, and those rallied with her, are pushing for the 'don't ask, don't tell' policy on the military to be dropped, and also for gay marriages to be ammended into the constitution. She argued that a person, regardless of sexual preference, should be allowed to be with the one they love, and also they should be allowed to serve in the United States armed forces, not in secret, but openly as the gay man or woman they are. The protesters were joined by the famed singer, Lady GA Ga, who said 'Obama, I know you are listening', and then yelled out 'Are you listening?'. For those of you who were unaware, there is a possibility, according to a video on youtube, that lady gaga is a transexual. Here is a link to the video . The protests were part of the 'National equality march' and it coincided with 'National coming out day'.
Response
I have several gay friends, and go and sing karaoke at the gay bar periodically. With that said, I donot agree with a 'gay marriage' amendment, and here is why: The institution of marriage is a religous ceremony, derived from the bible, and I believe a 'gay marriage' ammendment might try to force churches to perform these ceremonies or be guilty of descrimination, and I think that would be a violation of the 'seperation of church and state'. However, I would be totally supportive of a court officiated domestic partnership, which holds all the weight, for all intents and purposes, of a church officiated marriage. Secondly, on the matter of 'don't ask, don't tell. I don't see why not, with a military made up of men and women, they could not include gay men and women. I know that meshing gays and straights together would not work, no more then meshing men and women together. But, I see no reason why they cannot have 'gay platoons'. I'm sure if Washington's leaders put their heads together, they could find a happy medium, that would be fair for everyone.
In a story on cnn.com , it talks about gay rights activists, headed up by Judy Shepard, the mother of the murdered gay teenager Matthew Shepard, and how they have taken their protests to Washington D.C.. Judy Shepard, and those rallied with her, are pushing for the 'don't ask, don't tell' policy on the military to be dropped, and also for gay marriages to be ammended into the constitution. She argued that a person, regardless of sexual preference, should be allowed to be with the one they love, and also they should be allowed to serve in the United States armed forces, not in secret, but openly as the gay man or woman they are. The protesters were joined by the famed singer, Lady GA Ga, who said 'Obama, I know you are listening', and then yelled out 'Are you listening?'. For those of you who were unaware, there is a possibility, according to a video on youtube, that lady gaga is a transexual. Here is a link to the video . The protests were part of the 'National equality march' and it coincided with 'National coming out day'.
Response
I have several gay friends, and go and sing karaoke at the gay bar periodically. With that said, I donot agree with a 'gay marriage' amendment, and here is why: The institution of marriage is a religous ceremony, derived from the bible, and I believe a 'gay marriage' ammendment might try to force churches to perform these ceremonies or be guilty of descrimination, and I think that would be a violation of the 'seperation of church and state'. However, I would be totally supportive of a court officiated domestic partnership, which holds all the weight, for all intents and purposes, of a church officiated marriage. Secondly, on the matter of 'don't ask, don't tell. I don't see why not, with a military made up of men and women, they could not include gay men and women. I know that meshing gays and straights together would not work, no more then meshing men and women together. But, I see no reason why they cannot have 'gay platoons'. I'm sure if Washington's leaders put their heads together, they could find a happy medium, that would be fair for everyone.
12 annoying types on facebook
Summary
In a story on cnn.com , there is a funny and informative little article about twelve different annoying types of facebookers. The first type is the 'let-me-tell-you-everything-about my-day-bore'. The description is just like it sounds. Status updates every hour on the hour about every little thing they do. The second type is the 'self promoter'. Someone who brags about every little achievement, every opportunity they get. The third type is the 'friend padder'. The 'friend padder' is the person that has a thousand or more friends, as if they are really that popular. The fourth type is the 'town crier'. The 'town crier' is the one who posts all the gossip and sad news before you even get a chance to see it on the news. The fifth type is the 'tmi'er'. That is the person that over shares personal information, such as 'Brad went to Walgreen's to get cream for his pesky hemroids'. The sixth type is the 'bad grammarian'. That is the person who far surpasses the loose grammatical rules of the digital world, and takes their bad grammar to a moronic level. The seventh type is the 'sympathy baiter'. This is the person that always posts sad little updates with the intent of baiting you into giving them your sympathy. The eighth type is the 'lurker'. This person doesn't ever post on your status or any of your posts, but then at a later time, they bring up something that you had posted, reveiling that they have been lurking in the shadows of your page watching you. The ninth type is the 'crank'. These are the cranky, hateful people, who have something mean or negative to say all the time. The tenth type is the 'papparazzo'. This is the friend who post pictures of you, that you didn't even know they took, and without asking your permission to do so. The eleventh type is the 'obscurist'. This person post bleak, nonesense with the hopes of sounding mysterious. And finally the twelth is the 'chronic inviter'. This person invites you to take every quiz, join every cause, and see every video that happens across their path.
Response
I was laughing as I was reading this article. I am an avid facebooker, and I have encountered, probably even on a daily basis, each of these twelve annoying types. To all my friends, I love you, but these things really are annoying. To be totally honest though, I myself aam just as guilty of some of these at times. Now days, we have the great power of making our presence known to the world, or atleast among our circle of friends. But with great power, comes great responsibility, and yes that is a quote from spiderman, but still true all the same. I know I will be facebooking more respectably from now on, unless of course I've been drinking. I reccomend everybody that is on facebook, read this article. If you are not on facebook, why not? It is alot of fun.
In a story on cnn.com , there is a funny and informative little article about twelve different annoying types of facebookers. The first type is the 'let-me-tell-you-everything-about my-day-bore'. The description is just like it sounds. Status updates every hour on the hour about every little thing they do. The second type is the 'self promoter'. Someone who brags about every little achievement, every opportunity they get. The third type is the 'friend padder'. The 'friend padder' is the person that has a thousand or more friends, as if they are really that popular. The fourth type is the 'town crier'. The 'town crier' is the one who posts all the gossip and sad news before you even get a chance to see it on the news. The fifth type is the 'tmi'er'. That is the person that over shares personal information, such as 'Brad went to Walgreen's to get cream for his pesky hemroids'. The sixth type is the 'bad grammarian'. That is the person who far surpasses the loose grammatical rules of the digital world, and takes their bad grammar to a moronic level. The seventh type is the 'sympathy baiter'. This is the person that always posts sad little updates with the intent of baiting you into giving them your sympathy. The eighth type is the 'lurker'. This person doesn't ever post on your status or any of your posts, but then at a later time, they bring up something that you had posted, reveiling that they have been lurking in the shadows of your page watching you. The ninth type is the 'crank'. These are the cranky, hateful people, who have something mean or negative to say all the time. The tenth type is the 'papparazzo'. This is the friend who post pictures of you, that you didn't even know they took, and without asking your permission to do so. The eleventh type is the 'obscurist'. This person post bleak, nonesense with the hopes of sounding mysterious. And finally the twelth is the 'chronic inviter'. This person invites you to take every quiz, join every cause, and see every video that happens across their path.
Response
I was laughing as I was reading this article. I am an avid facebooker, and I have encountered, probably even on a daily basis, each of these twelve annoying types. To all my friends, I love you, but these things really are annoying. To be totally honest though, I myself aam just as guilty of some of these at times. Now days, we have the great power of making our presence known to the world, or atleast among our circle of friends. But with great power, comes great responsibility, and yes that is a quote from spiderman, but still true all the same. I know I will be facebooking more respectably from now on, unless of course I've been drinking. I reccomend everybody that is on facebook, read this article. If you are not on facebook, why not? It is alot of fun.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Healthcare bill could cause hardships
Summary
In a story on MSNBC , it clarifies some of the flaws in the proposed healthcare bills. It talks about how every American will be required to carry health insurance, rather it be medicaid, employer based insurance, or privately purchased health insurance. Yes you heard me correctly, we will be 'required'. According to the available information, the average middle class person will actually end up spending more on healthcare than the currently do. It also talks about how some of the reforms would actually cause insurance premiums for those who purchase their own, to go up.
Response
I am one hundred percent against the government requiring me to carry health insurance. I think that I should have the right to choose. I am still fairly young, and I don't neccesarily need health insurance. I have actually compared the price of insurance premiums and deductables, against my average healthcare spending without, and it is more cost effecient for me not to have insurance. As a citizen of a 'free' country, I think I should be able to budget my healtcare dollars as I seem fit, and that is one of my major problems with a democrat administration. I am absolutely and totally one hundred percent against 'big government'. They want to pick and choose what privately owned businesses they want to bail out, they want to 'require' us to purchase health insurance rather we can afford it or not. At what point does it stop being referred to as a free country? I am quite convinced that is not what this nation's forefathers had in mind, when they wrote the constitution.
In a story on MSNBC , it clarifies some of the flaws in the proposed healthcare bills. It talks about how every American will be required to carry health insurance, rather it be medicaid, employer based insurance, or privately purchased health insurance. Yes you heard me correctly, we will be 'required'. According to the available information, the average middle class person will actually end up spending more on healthcare than the currently do. It also talks about how some of the reforms would actually cause insurance premiums for those who purchase their own, to go up.
Response
I am one hundred percent against the government requiring me to carry health insurance. I think that I should have the right to choose. I am still fairly young, and I don't neccesarily need health insurance. I have actually compared the price of insurance premiums and deductables, against my average healthcare spending without, and it is more cost effecient for me not to have insurance. As a citizen of a 'free' country, I think I should be able to budget my healtcare dollars as I seem fit, and that is one of my major problems with a democrat administration. I am absolutely and totally one hundred percent against 'big government'. They want to pick and choose what privately owned businesses they want to bail out, they want to 'require' us to purchase health insurance rather we can afford it or not. At what point does it stop being referred to as a free country? I am quite convinced that is not what this nation's forefathers had in mind, when they wrote the constitution.
H1N1 Flu Vaccinations
Summary
In a story on MSNBC , it tells about the skepticism of Americans, concerning the 'swine flu' vaccinations. It tells about how a combination of factors, including political agendas, misinformation, and a lack of information, has spiked a high skepticism about the vaccinations. This is the most aggressive vaccination campaign in history. It is the CDC's goal to have every single man, woman, and child vaccinated against the H1N1 virus. Apparently the vaccination has only been tested on a total of forty six hundred people, and alot of americans don't believe that is enough to warrant 'pushing' it on billions. There is just not enough known about the vaccination, to be distributing it to pregnant women, elderly people, and small children, seems to be the resounding complaint among those interviewed.
Response
I agree one hundred percent with the skepticism. As a parent, the last thing I would ever do, is have my child administered a new, hardly tested, and relatively unknown vaccination. Vaccinations can be scary as it is, especially if it is a live culture immunization, but when you factor in the unknown, it is just terrifying to me. I know of lots of people who have taken the regular flu shot, and ended up getting the flu from it, and worse than they probably would have naturally. What if that were to happen with the swine flu? Is the CDC, in their attempt to keep people from getting the swine flu, actually increasing the spread of this strand of flu? We just don't know, and in that fact, lies the part of the skepticism. I personally have never even taken the regular flu vaccination, and am not really a big 'medicine person' . If medicine is neccesary, then yes, but if there is an alternative, then I will go with the alternative. I just really don't have alot of faith in the medical industry, or the pharmecutical companies either one. I don't think that the swine flu has really reached an 'epidemic level', it's statistics doesn't seem to be very far off from the statistics of the regular flu, and I think that the rushing of this vaccination, and the aggressive campaign to push it on the public, are very unjustified.
In a story on MSNBC , it tells about the skepticism of Americans, concerning the 'swine flu' vaccinations. It tells about how a combination of factors, including political agendas, misinformation, and a lack of information, has spiked a high skepticism about the vaccinations. This is the most aggressive vaccination campaign in history. It is the CDC's goal to have every single man, woman, and child vaccinated against the H1N1 virus. Apparently the vaccination has only been tested on a total of forty six hundred people, and alot of americans don't believe that is enough to warrant 'pushing' it on billions. There is just not enough known about the vaccination, to be distributing it to pregnant women, elderly people, and small children, seems to be the resounding complaint among those interviewed.
Response
I agree one hundred percent with the skepticism. As a parent, the last thing I would ever do, is have my child administered a new, hardly tested, and relatively unknown vaccination. Vaccinations can be scary as it is, especially if it is a live culture immunization, but when you factor in the unknown, it is just terrifying to me. I know of lots of people who have taken the regular flu shot, and ended up getting the flu from it, and worse than they probably would have naturally. What if that were to happen with the swine flu? Is the CDC, in their attempt to keep people from getting the swine flu, actually increasing the spread of this strand of flu? We just don't know, and in that fact, lies the part of the skepticism. I personally have never even taken the regular flu vaccination, and am not really a big 'medicine person' . If medicine is neccesary, then yes, but if there is an alternative, then I will go with the alternative. I just really don't have alot of faith in the medical industry, or the pharmecutical companies either one. I don't think that the swine flu has really reached an 'epidemic level', it's statistics doesn't seem to be very far off from the statistics of the regular flu, and I think that the rushing of this vaccination, and the aggressive campaign to push it on the public, are very unjustified.
Technology is getting cool
Summary
In a story on MSNBC , it tells about a new cutting edge technology for cell phones. Apparently there is a line of products out that allow you to blend search engine information about where your at, based on your gps triangulated position. This technology is referred to as 'Augmented Reality'. It utilizes the camera on your phone, apparently you veiw the layout ahead of you through the camera, and it shows tags of where to find different things, based on what you are looking for. It allows you to set the search criteria, and it shows everything from resturants, bars, movie theaters, and even photos that have been taken in the area where you are at, that has been posted somewhere on the internet. The story paints a picture of society one day soon, all veiwing a virtually enhanced world, by way of the technology being implemented on cell phone right now.
Response
I think that the 'coolness' potential for this technology is off the charts! I have to say that as a child, I always visioned the year twenty ten with flying cars, and trips to space. It has left me somewhat dissapointed. But one thing that actually fulfills my futuristic expectations, is cell phones. They really remind me of the handheld communicators from the old episodes of 'Star Trek'. Combined with the power of the internet, cell phones are the best thing since sliced bread. I can just imagine this 'augmented reality' technology being combined with sun glasses, to veiw a virtually enhanced reality as easy as wearing sunglasses. I still would like to book a flight to mars sometime though. I don't personally have access to this technology at this time, but when my cell phone contract is up, I plan to seek it out. The article says that the iphone 3gs currently has an 'augmented reality' app available, and also some of the phones coming out with the 'android operating system'. I am really excited to see what the cell phone companies will come out with next, I am glad that it is such a competitive market.
In a story on MSNBC , it tells about a new cutting edge technology for cell phones. Apparently there is a line of products out that allow you to blend search engine information about where your at, based on your gps triangulated position. This technology is referred to as 'Augmented Reality'. It utilizes the camera on your phone, apparently you veiw the layout ahead of you through the camera, and it shows tags of where to find different things, based on what you are looking for. It allows you to set the search criteria, and it shows everything from resturants, bars, movie theaters, and even photos that have been taken in the area where you are at, that has been posted somewhere on the internet. The story paints a picture of society one day soon, all veiwing a virtually enhanced world, by way of the technology being implemented on cell phone right now.
Response
I think that the 'coolness' potential for this technology is off the charts! I have to say that as a child, I always visioned the year twenty ten with flying cars, and trips to space. It has left me somewhat dissapointed. But one thing that actually fulfills my futuristic expectations, is cell phones. They really remind me of the handheld communicators from the old episodes of 'Star Trek'. Combined with the power of the internet, cell phones are the best thing since sliced bread. I can just imagine this 'augmented reality' technology being combined with sun glasses, to veiw a virtually enhanced reality as easy as wearing sunglasses. I still would like to book a flight to mars sometime though. I don't personally have access to this technology at this time, but when my cell phone contract is up, I plan to seek it out. The article says that the iphone 3gs currently has an 'augmented reality' app available, and also some of the phones coming out with the 'android operating system'. I am really excited to see what the cell phone companies will come out with next, I am glad that it is such a competitive market.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Racism alive and well
Summary
According to a story on MSNBC , an officer in Philadelphia Pennyslvania was pulled of his beat and put on desk duty for having 'corn rows' in his hair. The officer served in Iraq, survived two different explosions when his Hummer hit roadside bombs, he comes from a long line of police officers in his family. According to his coworkers, he is the kind of guy you'd want by your side if something bad going down. The one and only reason this officer was penalized was for wearing his hair in corn rows. Thomas strain is the officer referenced in this story, according to others questioned in his precinct, there are atleast a dozen other officers in that precinct with corn rows, so what is it that makes Thomas Strain stand out from the other corn rolled officers? Thomas Strain is the only one of them that is white.
Response
I think that this is something that is becoming more and more common in this country. I think that in trying to develop an ethnic sensativity to compensate for the sins of our fore fathers, we have actually only accomplished reversing racism in this country rather than abolishing it. I think the whole idea of socially acceptable hair and clothing styles differing based on race or color is completely and totally one hundred percent an example of racism. I personally think that in many businesses and industry's attempts at ethnic sensativity, they are being unfair to one(or more) race and insulting one(or more) in the process. Equality is really quite self explanitory. Anything that singles out a race whether it's beneficial or harmful for that race, the fact that there is a singling out based on race, makes it wrong. I believe that our nation has come along way towards equality in the last sixty years and definately in the last one hundred and fifty years, but I think that we have gotten down a wrong path in our good intentions, and we still have away to go in creating an atmosphere of equality for all.
According to a story on MSNBC , an officer in Philadelphia Pennyslvania was pulled of his beat and put on desk duty for having 'corn rows' in his hair. The officer served in Iraq, survived two different explosions when his Hummer hit roadside bombs, he comes from a long line of police officers in his family. According to his coworkers, he is the kind of guy you'd want by your side if something bad going down. The one and only reason this officer was penalized was for wearing his hair in corn rows. Thomas strain is the officer referenced in this story, according to others questioned in his precinct, there are atleast a dozen other officers in that precinct with corn rows, so what is it that makes Thomas Strain stand out from the other corn rolled officers? Thomas Strain is the only one of them that is white.
Response
I think that this is something that is becoming more and more common in this country. I think that in trying to develop an ethnic sensativity to compensate for the sins of our fore fathers, we have actually only accomplished reversing racism in this country rather than abolishing it. I think the whole idea of socially acceptable hair and clothing styles differing based on race or color is completely and totally one hundred percent an example of racism. I personally think that in many businesses and industry's attempts at ethnic sensativity, they are being unfair to one(or more) race and insulting one(or more) in the process. Equality is really quite self explanitory. Anything that singles out a race whether it's beneficial or harmful for that race, the fact that there is a singling out based on race, makes it wrong. I believe that our nation has come along way towards equality in the last sixty years and definately in the last one hundred and fifty years, but I think that we have gotten down a wrong path in our good intentions, and we still have away to go in creating an atmosphere of equality for all.
Per ounce tax on sugary beverages
Summary
In a story on MSNBC , it tells of a proposed tax per ounce on sugary beverages such as soda pop. It claims that the tax revenue would help offset some of the cost of the proposed healthcare reforms, and at the same time deter americans from drinking sugary beverages that may adversely affect their health. The story goes on to say that it was not passed at this time, because of the hard time the democrat administration is having trying to pass their proposed healthcare bill, President Obama thought it would be a bad time to make an enemy of the beverage industry. Researches stated that the average obese american would lose two pounds per year as a result of the tax, had it been passed.
Response
I can see the benefit of deterring people from drinking sugary benefits, but I don't think that singling out beverages and not the candy makers, snack cake makers, and cookie makers, etc. would be like trying to put a bandaid on a bullet wound. It does not in any way shape or form fix the obesity problem in america, and is more a way to impose more taxes without appearing to raise taxes. Two pounds a year weight loss for someone extremely obese might actually help them ten years after their dead at that snail paced weightloss. I really liked the way the FDA cracked down on trans fat, and I think there should be tighter restrictions on the amounts of sugars that companies are allowed to put in their products. That would be an actual attempt at making americans healthier. As a parent and a consumer, I have noticed that healthier foods actually cost more than unhealthy foods, and is a big contributer to the unhealthiness and obesity in this country. If anything, the government should offer tax breaks for food companies that would adhere to strict healthy guidlines while maintaining a cost effective price for the consumers.
In a story on MSNBC , it tells of a proposed tax per ounce on sugary beverages such as soda pop. It claims that the tax revenue would help offset some of the cost of the proposed healthcare reforms, and at the same time deter americans from drinking sugary beverages that may adversely affect their health. The story goes on to say that it was not passed at this time, because of the hard time the democrat administration is having trying to pass their proposed healthcare bill, President Obama thought it would be a bad time to make an enemy of the beverage industry. Researches stated that the average obese american would lose two pounds per year as a result of the tax, had it been passed.
Response
I can see the benefit of deterring people from drinking sugary benefits, but I don't think that singling out beverages and not the candy makers, snack cake makers, and cookie makers, etc. would be like trying to put a bandaid on a bullet wound. It does not in any way shape or form fix the obesity problem in america, and is more a way to impose more taxes without appearing to raise taxes. Two pounds a year weight loss for someone extremely obese might actually help them ten years after their dead at that snail paced weightloss. I really liked the way the FDA cracked down on trans fat, and I think there should be tighter restrictions on the amounts of sugars that companies are allowed to put in their products. That would be an actual attempt at making americans healthier. As a parent and a consumer, I have noticed that healthier foods actually cost more than unhealthy foods, and is a big contributer to the unhealthiness and obesity in this country. If anything, the government should offer tax breaks for food companies that would adhere to strict healthy guidlines while maintaining a cost effective price for the consumers.
It must be a full moon out?
Summary
In a story on MSNBC , it proposes the question " Does the moon affect our health and mental well being here on earth". It gives alot of good examples of how that could be possible. Some of which include bright lighting from the moon causing sleep deprivation, and also the idea that because our bodies are made up of seventy percent water, that possibly the gravitaional tugging back and fourth between the earth and the moon could be causing mini tides within our bodies. According to the story though, all these things have not been proved, and every testing has turned up no link between a full moon and human health or behaviors.
Response
I find this story quite interesting. It really makes you think about the actual possibility of such a thing. I've always heard the phrase "Must be a full moon out", but I had really never given any thought to it's origin. I have somewhat of a flair for sci fi, and the whole magnetic disturbance on our body's water angle, really make my imagine go wild with the whole werewolf myth. Possibly a genetic deformity, a shapeshifter chromasone that is triggered by this gravitational diturbance within the body caused by the full moon. Possibly an idea for a book? I don't know about the whole sleep deprivation angle. I have a hard time believing that the light of the full moon would cause that much difference in our sleep patterns. I am also quite curious about the testing methods used to disprove the idea that there are differences when there is a full moon. Surely with such a common phrase, there must be some actual basis for it. I will definately be paying close attention whenever there is a full moon, to see for myself if there is any notable differences.
In a story on MSNBC , it proposes the question " Does the moon affect our health and mental well being here on earth". It gives alot of good examples of how that could be possible. Some of which include bright lighting from the moon causing sleep deprivation, and also the idea that because our bodies are made up of seventy percent water, that possibly the gravitaional tugging back and fourth between the earth and the moon could be causing mini tides within our bodies. According to the story though, all these things have not been proved, and every testing has turned up no link between a full moon and human health or behaviors.
Response
I find this story quite interesting. It really makes you think about the actual possibility of such a thing. I've always heard the phrase "Must be a full moon out", but I had really never given any thought to it's origin. I have somewhat of a flair for sci fi, and the whole magnetic disturbance on our body's water angle, really make my imagine go wild with the whole werewolf myth. Possibly a genetic deformity, a shapeshifter chromasone that is triggered by this gravitational diturbance within the body caused by the full moon. Possibly an idea for a book? I don't know about the whole sleep deprivation angle. I have a hard time believing that the light of the full moon would cause that much difference in our sleep patterns. I am also quite curious about the testing methods used to disprove the idea that there are differences when there is a full moon. Surely with such a common phrase, there must be some actual basis for it. I will definately be paying close attention whenever there is a full moon, to see for myself if there is any notable differences.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Four more of the same?
Summary
According to a story on msnbc , President Obama has ordered twenty one thousand more troops into Afgahnastan, bringing the total number of troops up to sixty eight thousand troops. When interveiwed, the president would not give a deadline for withdrawl of troops from Afgahnastan. Much like his predecessor, President Obama stated he would not base any war decisions on the polotics of the moment. According to polls, the american public, along with members of his own part and many others, all are very doubtful of a resurgent of the Taliban, they are doubtful of Afgahn leadership, and they are doubtful of the neccessity for american involvement in Afgahnastan.
Response
I find it somewhat ironic, that during his presidential campaign, President Obama repetedly attacked the Bush administration for not having a timeline to bring home the troops from Iraq. Obama's campaign platform claimed that his opponent John McCain, shared the Bush administrations veiw on the war in Iraq, and that if elected Obama said that he would create a defenite timeline to 'bring the troops home. Since being elected, the troops have not come home. All the president has done, was reduce the troops in Iraq and increase the number in Afgahnastan to the point where additional troops, over and above what had already been deployed, were 'neccessary'. President Obama repeatedly slandered John McCain, claiming that four years of a McCain presidency would be like four more years of the Bush presidency. In addition to no definate timeline to bring home the troops, Obama fiscal irresponsibility and bloated government spending has far overshadowed any single year spending of George Bush, or any other president for that matter. At the rate He is going, four more of the same might have been alot better for america than what he is unleashing. The taxes will inevitably have to increase to pay for this higher fiscal budget, which means less money to support our family's with. If the Obama national healthcare plan ever goes through, we most likely see 65% income taxes. That's what Britian sees with their national healthcare. Alot of people think that the nationalized healthcare is to help the people, but really it goes to help the medical industry. Working class people, which is most of us, will pay twice as much in taxes, which would be alot more expensive than their current healthcare insurance. So, the people aren't benefiting, but the medical industry, rather than having to reform their lofty expensive pricing, will instead have a government guarantee of payment. I personally couldn't live off 30 - 35% less income than I make now. I think there are very few of us who can.
According to a story on msnbc , President Obama has ordered twenty one thousand more troops into Afgahnastan, bringing the total number of troops up to sixty eight thousand troops. When interveiwed, the president would not give a deadline for withdrawl of troops from Afgahnastan. Much like his predecessor, President Obama stated he would not base any war decisions on the polotics of the moment. According to polls, the american public, along with members of his own part and many others, all are very doubtful of a resurgent of the Taliban, they are doubtful of Afgahn leadership, and they are doubtful of the neccessity for american involvement in Afgahnastan.
Response
I find it somewhat ironic, that during his presidential campaign, President Obama repetedly attacked the Bush administration for not having a timeline to bring home the troops from Iraq. Obama's campaign platform claimed that his opponent John McCain, shared the Bush administrations veiw on the war in Iraq, and that if elected Obama said that he would create a defenite timeline to 'bring the troops home. Since being elected, the troops have not come home. All the president has done, was reduce the troops in Iraq and increase the number in Afgahnastan to the point where additional troops, over and above what had already been deployed, were 'neccessary'. President Obama repeatedly slandered John McCain, claiming that four years of a McCain presidency would be like four more years of the Bush presidency. In addition to no definate timeline to bring home the troops, Obama fiscal irresponsibility and bloated government spending has far overshadowed any single year spending of George Bush, or any other president for that matter. At the rate He is going, four more of the same might have been alot better for america than what he is unleashing. The taxes will inevitably have to increase to pay for this higher fiscal budget, which means less money to support our family's with. If the Obama national healthcare plan ever goes through, we most likely see 65% income taxes. That's what Britian sees with their national healthcare. Alot of people think that the nationalized healthcare is to help the people, but really it goes to help the medical industry. Working class people, which is most of us, will pay twice as much in taxes, which would be alot more expensive than their current healthcare insurance. So, the people aren't benefiting, but the medical industry, rather than having to reform their lofty expensive pricing, will instead have a government guarantee of payment. I personally couldn't live off 30 - 35% less income than I make now. I think there are very few of us who can.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Could technology be making us rude?
Summary
According to a story on msnbc , there are some fingers pointed at technology, primarily the internet, as the blame for the increased rudeness in society. The author of the article was actually mocking the idea, and portraying the idea as ridiculous. The article poses the idea that the rudeness of society is actually a natural fluctuation of society. It gives examples of what was acceptable in medevil times, and insinuates that socially acceptable rudeness has just come back in style. The article mentions the famed social networks, facebook & twitter. It also uses Kenye West's interruption of the Video Music Awards as an example of today's level of rudeness.
Response
I have to agree with those doing the finger pointing and not the author of this article. I am all for technology, but I do have to admit that people can be too connected electronically, and detached from the physical world. I see so many people walking through grocery stores, and the mall, texting or talking on their cell phones, totally oblivious of everyone around them. People are so amused with how they portray themselves on various social networks, that they're not so concerned how they come off in the real world. I personally have witnessed the jet setted world of dating compliments of the internet. Visiting clubs? A thing of the past. Meeting people in person before you agree to go out? A thing of the past. Everything is faster and easier now days. People are so used to getting everything fast, that some of our slower (non electrical) members of society, such as conveinence store clerks, wind up getting verbally abused in peoples fits of inpatient rage. I personal am a fan of the philosphy 'all things in moderation', but I worry that society is actually taking our global connectiveness to an unhealthy level.
According to a story on msnbc , there are some fingers pointed at technology, primarily the internet, as the blame for the increased rudeness in society. The author of the article was actually mocking the idea, and portraying the idea as ridiculous. The article poses the idea that the rudeness of society is actually a natural fluctuation of society. It gives examples of what was acceptable in medevil times, and insinuates that socially acceptable rudeness has just come back in style. The article mentions the famed social networks, facebook & twitter. It also uses Kenye West's interruption of the Video Music Awards as an example of today's level of rudeness.
Response
I have to agree with those doing the finger pointing and not the author of this article. I am all for technology, but I do have to admit that people can be too connected electronically, and detached from the physical world. I see so many people walking through grocery stores, and the mall, texting or talking on their cell phones, totally oblivious of everyone around them. People are so amused with how they portray themselves on various social networks, that they're not so concerned how they come off in the real world. I personally have witnessed the jet setted world of dating compliments of the internet. Visiting clubs? A thing of the past. Meeting people in person before you agree to go out? A thing of the past. Everything is faster and easier now days. People are so used to getting everything fast, that some of our slower (non electrical) members of society, such as conveinence store clerks, wind up getting verbally abused in peoples fits of inpatient rage. I personal am a fan of the philosphy 'all things in moderation', but I worry that society is actually taking our global connectiveness to an unhealthy level.
Friday, September 4, 2009
Absolutely rediculous!
Summary
According to a story on MSNBC , a police officer in Bozeman, MT was forced to resign over a facebook post he made on his personal account. The post read "I wish we were allowed to arrest people for being stupid". The posting came to light when a Bozeman man filed a lawsuit against the city, this officer, and a couple others; claiming that he was wrongfully arrested. The man claimed that this officers facebook posting indicates a lack of respect for citizens rights, and a willingness to abuse his position of power.
Response
I personally think that this story is ridiculous beyond comprehension. What person has not complained about there job, or fantasized about having more power to increase the enjoyability of their job? How many waitress wish they had the power to tell an unruly customer to take a hike? How many teachers wish they had the authority to give the troublemakers in their class, the 'boot'? I personally am an avid facebook "venter", and I would hope that most half way intelligent people could tell the difference between fact and 'venting'. If anything, this man filing the lawsuit, is claiming that he falls into the stupid category and that he was discriminated against for being stupid. The shear idea of the lawsuit, in my book, makes a pretty convincing argument for that man's stupidity. Sometimes I feel that our system has become more a game of who can manipulate the facts more to their benefit, rather than upholding the laws of the land. It truly disappoints my faith in society when I see or hear of such things happening
According to a story on MSNBC , a police officer in Bozeman, MT was forced to resign over a facebook post he made on his personal account. The post read "I wish we were allowed to arrest people for being stupid". The posting came to light when a Bozeman man filed a lawsuit against the city, this officer, and a couple others; claiming that he was wrongfully arrested. The man claimed that this officers facebook posting indicates a lack of respect for citizens rights, and a willingness to abuse his position of power.
Response
I personally think that this story is ridiculous beyond comprehension. What person has not complained about there job, or fantasized about having more power to increase the enjoyability of their job? How many waitress wish they had the power to tell an unruly customer to take a hike? How many teachers wish they had the authority to give the troublemakers in their class, the 'boot'? I personally am an avid facebook "venter", and I would hope that most half way intelligent people could tell the difference between fact and 'venting'. If anything, this man filing the lawsuit, is claiming that he falls into the stupid category and that he was discriminated against for being stupid. The shear idea of the lawsuit, in my book, makes a pretty convincing argument for that man's stupidity. Sometimes I feel that our system has become more a game of who can manipulate the facts more to their benefit, rather than upholding the laws of the land. It truly disappoints my faith in society when I see or hear of such things happening
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Natural "High"
Summary
What is the latest alternative to harmful addictive drugs? According to a story on MSNBC , it is the endorphins and dopamine released from intense excercise. The story stated that excercise can be as addictive as heroine. Doctors, according to the story, are beginning to research intense workout schedules as a way of recoverying from drug addictions. Apparently the chemicals released by excercising are comparable to that from drugs, and provides a "natural high". Even though the story claims that excercising can be addictive, it also clarifies that as long as it's not interfering with other aspects of a persons life, than it is a non-harmful alternative to a drug induced high.
Response
As someone who is an avid excerciser, and has been for over twenty years, I agree totally that excercising is addictive. The natural high that I obtain after an intense weightlifting workout, or after running a few miles on the treadmill, is greater than any high I may have experimented with at a younger age. Alot of people claim that they donot have enough energy to workout, but the more you workout, the more energy you have to do your workouts. Also, alot of people I talk to, say they don't have time to workout, but I work full-time, go to school full-time, and I have six children. I get up at five in the morning just to go workout before I have to go to work, and instead of making me tired like you think it would, it leaves me energized to accomplish the rest of my tasks throughout the day. I am glad to see researchers coming to the same conclusion that I arrived at along time ago. Working out is the only "high" worth seeking after.
What is the latest alternative to harmful addictive drugs? According to a story on MSNBC , it is the endorphins and dopamine released from intense excercise. The story stated that excercise can be as addictive as heroine. Doctors, according to the story, are beginning to research intense workout schedules as a way of recoverying from drug addictions. Apparently the chemicals released by excercising are comparable to that from drugs, and provides a "natural high". Even though the story claims that excercising can be addictive, it also clarifies that as long as it's not interfering with other aspects of a persons life, than it is a non-harmful alternative to a drug induced high.
Response
As someone who is an avid excerciser, and has been for over twenty years, I agree totally that excercising is addictive. The natural high that I obtain after an intense weightlifting workout, or after running a few miles on the treadmill, is greater than any high I may have experimented with at a younger age. Alot of people claim that they donot have enough energy to workout, but the more you workout, the more energy you have to do your workouts. Also, alot of people I talk to, say they don't have time to workout, but I work full-time, go to school full-time, and I have six children. I get up at five in the morning just to go workout before I have to go to work, and instead of making me tired like you think it would, it leaves me energized to accomplish the rest of my tasks throughout the day. I am glad to see researchers coming to the same conclusion that I arrived at along time ago. Working out is the only "high" worth seeking after.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
2nd Amendment Rights
Summary
In a story on MSNBC , it talks about gun rights activists and supporters rallying at Obama's town hall meetings, wearing firearms and sidearms in plain veiw. It told of a conveinence store robbery, to where an armed citizen twarted the robbery and saved the life of the clerk and other customers. The supporters of our right to carry, complained that the media only portrayed the carring of guns in a negative way, and witheld instances such as the conveinence store robbery attempt. The activist worry that if they stand up for citizen's right to carry, that those freedoms will begin to diminish under the Obama led Democrat administration.
Response
It is my opinion that if the criminals are going to carry guns, then we should be able to carry them to protect ourselves. I don't personally own a gun, but I am a brown belt in Jeet Kune Do. But if I wasn't, then I probably would have one. There is nothing worse than a feeling of helplessness in a crisis situation. I am a firm supporter of the constitution in the context of which it was written, and I think that it is fine as it is, and the more it is altered and amended, the worse off this country becomes. In a world that is filled with turmoil and uncertainty, with soaring unemployment as well as soaring grocery and utility prices; I feel that people are worried what lengths people will goto to survive, and want to be prepared for the worst. Alot of people might be uncomfortable with the idea of a high percentage of the population walking around with guns strapped to their hips. I personally feel that if a criminal walks into a bank to rob it, and he sees a half dozen people wearing guns, he's probably going to seriously reconsider his plans to rob it.
In a story on MSNBC , it talks about gun rights activists and supporters rallying at Obama's town hall meetings, wearing firearms and sidearms in plain veiw. It told of a conveinence store robbery, to where an armed citizen twarted the robbery and saved the life of the clerk and other customers. The supporters of our right to carry, complained that the media only portrayed the carring of guns in a negative way, and witheld instances such as the conveinence store robbery attempt. The activist worry that if they stand up for citizen's right to carry, that those freedoms will begin to diminish under the Obama led Democrat administration.
Response
It is my opinion that if the criminals are going to carry guns, then we should be able to carry them to protect ourselves. I don't personally own a gun, but I am a brown belt in Jeet Kune Do. But if I wasn't, then I probably would have one. There is nothing worse than a feeling of helplessness in a crisis situation. I am a firm supporter of the constitution in the context of which it was written, and I think that it is fine as it is, and the more it is altered and amended, the worse off this country becomes. In a world that is filled with turmoil and uncertainty, with soaring unemployment as well as soaring grocery and utility prices; I feel that people are worried what lengths people will goto to survive, and want to be prepared for the worst. Alot of people might be uncomfortable with the idea of a high percentage of the population walking around with guns strapped to their hips. I personally feel that if a criminal walks into a bank to rob it, and he sees a half dozen people wearing guns, he's probably going to seriously reconsider his plans to rob it.
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