A Blog by Kyle Forry
On November 5th 2008 Californians voted to revoke the right for gay marriage on a proposition known as Prop 8 that would make a formal amendment to the California Constitution that bans gay marriage. Before I go any further I would like to state I understand that this isn’t something that just happened in recent months but as long as the struggle for equal rights continues, and it is, then this issue is still relevant. Not only that but it is important to realize an rather terrifying precedent that has been set; civil rights being put up to a popular vote.
What if tomorrow you found out that your right to own property had been taken away? That an issue was on the ballot and the majority of people decided that you were no longer allowed to own anything. Is our constitution not supposed to protect the rights of the minority from the power of the majority?
The decision following it to up-hold the vote on May 27th 2009 was approved by the same panel of judges that originally struck down the ban as unconstitutional. The decision came as a blow to Gay and Lesbian Rights organizations across not just California but across the country.
According to cbs5.com “Spending for and against a ballot initiative that would outlaw same-sex marriage in California has surpassed $73 million, almost twice the total that was spent in the 24 states where similar measures were put to voters since 2004, campaign finance records show “
In many ways the Gay and Lesbian rights movement can be likened to that of other civil rights movements; the women’s rights movement of 1848 to 1920, the African American civil rights movement of 1955 to 1968, and many more. The struggle for equality is not a new one, and certainly not one that will go away. All roads to civil rights are always a struggle. This has been most obvious in the African American civil rights movement. As with all the aforementioned struggles the right to equality eventually won out. The parallels that can be drawn are quite astounding.
It seems strange to me then that in 2009 there are still groups of American citizens that struggle for equality. With so many different groups of people being victimized at one time or another that now have the authority to make a change it would seem to this blogger that they could empathize with the struggle for Gay and Lesbian rights that is currently ongoing. And yet the exit polls show that overwhelmingly African Americans supported the issue as well as women. What then drives the issue?
Religion is a main reason that drives many of the decisions that people make when deciding on so-called moral issues. Exit polls concerning this very subject show that among people that identified themselves as religious, they overwhelmingly supported the issue. The fundamental separation of church and state in this country seems somewhat irrelevant when you see how deeply intertwined they have already become.
Others cited the need to protect the sanctity of marriage, or protect the children from the dangers of being taught equal rights. A popular youtube.com video, which can be found below, points out the discretions of this argument, as if allowing someone else to commit themselves to the person they are in love with somehow effects a straight marriage. A second video I have also included demonstrates accurately, albeit rather hilariously, how ludicrous the second part of that idea is as well.
As with all of the civil rights movements of the past there too will come a time when we look back on this part of history with shock that such an unequal time even existed. In modern day life it seems completely outlandish that there should have ever been a time when women weren’t allowed to vote, or that African Americans were looked at as property. So too will come the time when gay rights are commonplace, when they too will enjoy the same rights that we all enjoy. Proposition 8 was a set-back, but it is nothing more than a stumbling block on a path that will and must continue. I quote now the Declaration of Independence when I say “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights; that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.”
Monday, September 28, 2009
With A “Drop-Out” Crisis Does It Really Matter?
While I may not be President Obama’s biggest fan, I am a fan of young people finishing school. On May 5, 2009 cnn.com stated that almost 6.2 million students within the United States ages 16 to 24 dropped out of high school in 2007. This total was represented by 16 percent of all people in the United States that were in that age range during 2007. According to a resource of CNN the highest percentage of dropouts were Latino or African-American.
Although I do not support all of President Obama’s ideas he is extremely influential. Not only is he the President of the United States but also he is the first African-American President in the history of the United States. With that being said, when the first African-American President wants to give a back to school speech to the children who are the future of America, he gets criticized. While I know not every person disagreed with what his speech presented but rather the curriculum that backed his speech, I still believe it was more important for students to hear the positive words of reality and encouragement that he spoke.
In his speech, posted on the Huffington Post, (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/09/07/obama-speech-to-schoolchi_n_278763.html ) President Obama put it very well stating “You can’t drop out of school and just drop into a good job. You’ve got to work for it and train for it and learn for it.” It seems like now a days it takes at least a high school degree to get a decent paying job and with this economy a good job is much needed to survive. Our countries future depends on the path today’s students choose to follow.
President Obama also informed students that being successful is not an easy accomplishment. He stated that a lot of times television portrays getting rich and successful as being easy and effortless. As much as I believe it is important to set high goals and expectations for yourself, I also believe that it is important to be realistic. As a five year old I believe it is ok to dream of being an Olympic gold medalist, but as you age and are at the age where it is time to start thinking about graduation and plans for after, it is time to set realistic goals. I know there is no set age or grade where that mindset should take on, but if you ask me I think it should be around eighth grade.
President Obama was realistic with students and made it clear in his speech that for the majority of us our passport to success is not going to be through singing or acting or playing in the NFL. For example, I used to live in the small town of Opp, Alabama with a young man who believed he was God’s gift to baseball. Well while he was to the small town of Opp he was not to the rest of the world. This particular young man never focused on being realistic about life and did not focus on academics; after graduation he went to the University of Alabama with the intentions of being an instant star on the baseball team. Instead he was a walk on and because of his fury due to his lack of instant fame and unrealistic goals he dropped out of school and returned back home; he is currently working at his fathers local car dealership in the same small town.
As I stated previously, I may not be President Obama’s biggest supporter but I am supporter of students finishing school. In his speech though he was realistic and honest with our students and that is exactly what this country needs.
Sara Jacobi
To much boom boom for Iran
Iran having nuclear weapons is something Americans, Israelis; the global community doesn’t want to come to pass. Yet, despite all this political animosity Iran is doggedly purposing obtaining nuclear capabilities.
Playing devil's advocate, it is hard to ignore some of the double standards that nuclear powers like the U.S., Russia, and China are conveniently forgetting.
When America and later Russia were developing both were in times of turmoil and war. (Israel didn't have to go through U.N. sanctions)
All U.N. nuclear powers claim only to us their nuclear weapons as a prevailent against aggression. (possibly a reason for Iran)
The U.S. and Russia both have had several nuclear power mishaps. (making them far from the ideal experts)
Whether these facts don't substantiate reason for Iran developing nuclear capabilities it does make it kind of hard for a country to be forced into abiding by rules not followed by the arbitors.
Clearly change in diplomacy might be in order. Instead of taking the “I know what is best for you” approach and coming off as the unwarranted elder sibling the United States and the U.N. need to realize that they might not be able to halt this march.
For a moment, pretend that no matter what the U.N. does Iran develops a nuclear arsenal. Sen. Graham drops the “Armageddon” word along with ideals of a nuclear armed terrorist group backed by a corrupt Iranian regime. Evidently, it isn’t something desired, but still imagine if all the U.N. threat letters are left unread and all the meetings are left unattended. If you can’t, simply replace Iran with North Korea.
Like today's Iran, North Korea wasn’t going to be bullied by U.N. Diplomats. Many of whom might have come across as international school yard bullies ordering a sovereign nation to cease its nuclear programs. Despite the demands that became threats that then became sanctions Korea launched it missiles and more importantly it developed while not new but stronger hatred towards America and the U.N. It was overly obvious then that someone miscalculated the North Korean resolve.
Failed Big Stick diplomacy might be repeating itself in Iran's case. In the video, Clinton mentions “stronger sanctions” against the Iran government. This is a terrible misrepresentation of what exactly sanctions encompasses. Stronger sanctions don’t mean that Iranian party leaders give up a twenty year project, for the first few months it simply means settling for a cheaper Chateau d'Yquem with dinner. One has to remember that Iran is sitting on a very large stockpile of natural valuable resources. Sanctions wouldn't be cutting off only export oil and gas it would be cutting off the economical life line of the country, and as with Korea the people who will feel the clench fastest and longest or those who can ill afford it. Trying to force a change in government policy or even an overthrow of the government through depravation and starvation of its citizens is torture, worst of all it is the kind of torture that leads to a fanatical enemy.
It hasn't worked with North Korea and it isn't working with Iran. Furthermore, Clinton stated that "there is nothing they can really say to make the U.N. believe them... they must allow complete transparency of their program." This ultimatum will not frighten a nation into revealing what it has manage to keep underwraps for the past twenty years especially when Sen. Graham predicts Iran to be a mere eighteen months away from having nuclear weapons.
It is time to change diplomatic policy with Iran. Sanctioning the 2cd largest oil and gas reserve nation isn't going to do anyone any good. Personnally, I would rather have them in the U.N. table with nuclear weapons then in isolation glaring at the United States and her allies with their hands on a button.
Jeff
Morton
Michael Vick is Back, and He Deserves It
Vick is back, and he deserves it
Just because Michael Vick deserves a to be back in the National Football League, playing for a team, does not mean what he did was not stupid, inhumane, and completely out of line. However, looking at it in context, he deserves to be back doing what he loves.
He had a fair trial in the court of law, was found guilty, given a sentence, and respectfully followed it. Anyone who says he shouldn’t be back competing might be saying a criminal like that has no place in the NFL. They are putting themselves above the law, and the commissioner of the NFL. Both the law and the NFL say that Vick is allowed to go back to his sport.
Apparently they do not know that there are other men actually playing and doing well in the NFL, convicted or charged of more heinous crimes. Lets, look at Ray Lewis, linebacker and defensive captain for the Baltimore Ravens. While he may not be a household name, you don’t have to be a football fanatic to have heard of him. Almost 10 years ago he was charged with murder, and, just like, Vick he went to court and received his sentence, without being all over the news for decent amount of time. Since this time Lewis has gone on to play in multiple Pro-Bowls, and even land himself on the cover of the video game Madden.
Much more recently, this year, Donte Stallworth, of the New Orleans Saints hit and killed a pedestrian with his car. He has received a lighter sentence, lighter suspension from the NFL, and far less media buzz and haggling than Vick. Leonard Little of the St. Louis Rams, was convicted of involuntary manslaughter in 1998, and just yesterday, September 27th, played for the Rams recording 2 sacks and 2 tackles to his statistics list, showing that players can rebound from felonies and still follow their dreams and talents.
Many will argue that a convicted felon has no right to be playing a professional sport due to the role model responsibilities they face. Sure Vick may not be the best example for the average pop warner football player in America, but how about all of the younger athletes’ that have spent time in juvenile detention centers or have had other run-ins with the law? Vick is a perfect example for those who have already gotten convicted or in other types of trouble. He responsibly, went to court, did his time, even donated time and money to the organization he may have hurt most, and is now back doing what he loves.
Surely a young criminal, who looks up to Vick can realize that if he can go through serving time in jail and be back doing what he loves, that the youngster can do the same. Whether their dream be playing a sport, being a business man, going back to school, or even living a life just getting by without crime, Vick has shown that it is possible to mess up on a huge degree and still recover.
After getting out of jail, any parole officer would encourage their client to get back to their profession and regular life. Why wouldn’t they encourage a professional athlete to do the same? Sure Michael Vick might have been involved with some cruel activity, but he has done his time and learned his lesson. Anyone keeping him out of football would be the true heartless ones.
America's World War
Mike McDowell
It seems as though every time another nation exercises its sovereignty and acts militarily, America becomes fearful and resentful towards this nation.
The War in Iraq is a quintessential example of the failure of this “act first, think second” irrationality of many Americans and their politicians, left-winged or right-winged. The Bush Administration sold the war with promises of keeping America safe from terrorists and weapons of mass destruction that simply did not exist in Iraq prior to the invasion of the country. This war was voted for by both Democrats and Republicans in 2002 and has been one of the biggest causes of political controversy this decade.
Last year, Russia went to war with Georgia, and the media outlets called for intervention of the United States. These fearful reporters sold war to an American public for no reason at all. Russia was not invading Alaska (although former Governor Sarah Palin might feel otherwise) and did not pose an immediate threat to the United States of America.
Several months ago North Korea tested a weapon of its own and America was outraged. A PoliGazette poll conducted in April of this year reported 57% wanted to take military action against North Korea. Luckily enough, these feelings have died down quite considerably.
Iran has recently conducted missile testing of its own, and public outrage was had by all. I expect there to be another poll reporting yet another cry for war with another country that, once again, poses absolutely no immediate threat to America.
Why is it acceptable for America to have military bases in Germany, Japan, and in the Middle East? Furthermore, how is it acceptable for America to conduct its own military testing and experiments in the deserts of the West and on uninhabited islands? It seems as though the men and women in charge of the hysteria button in America are also card-carrying members of The Church of Hypocrisy.
America has 9,400 nuclear weapons. America has a volunteer armed forces with some of the highest enlistment numbers in the world. America has a highly trained military with a long history and an air force that is of the finest in the world. America has CIA agents and special operatives in nations all over the globe with instant connectivity to the Pentagon.
Iran launched one missile.
Korea launched one missile.
Russia participated in a preemptive strike against a much weaker nation.
The United States has engaged in numerous preemptive strikes against weaker nations, leading to the economic and political turmoil of today.
Citizens of the prideful nation that many Americans claim to be apart of seem to fear the sovereignty of other nations, which is odd because tea was thrown in a harbor about 300 years ago for the sake of sovereignty. People on both the blue and on the red side of the spectrum claim that America has the best military in the world.
If this is the case, Americans, the media, and its government need to start acting the part. If America wants to be a superpower, it cannot be intimidated by nations that do not pose a threat to its citizens.
Furthermore, Americans must realize that it is a nation’s right and obligation to protect and provide its own citizens with a sense of security, much like Americans expect of their own government. To deny Iraq, Korea, Russia, or Iran the ability to garner a military for itself is tyrannical and goes against the ideals that America was founded upon.
James Monroe was famous for his foreign policy. It was a policy that called for the de-globalization of Europe within the Western Hemisphere and a policy that promised the end of meddling in foreign affairs that did not pertain to America. This seems most desirable in this age of hysteria and irrationality.
We’re a big nation.
Let’s stop acting like a little one.
Congratulations!! It's a Boy!!
Carolyn Savage,from Toledo, Ohio, recently gave birth to 5 pound 3 ounce baby boy. A blessing. But there was one problem, the baby is not hers.
Carolyn and her husband went to fertility clinic to get their embryo placed inside of her. The clinic mistakenly put the embryo of Paul and Shannon Morrell, from Detroit, inside of Carolyn.
You have got to be kidding me!! How does a medical clinic make such a boneheaded mistake as that. This woman, who is overjoyed to find out she is pregnant, gets knocked off her feet with this disastrous news.
The Morrell's called Carolyn a "guardian angel" because her and husband not only decided to go through with the pregnancy but to give the baby up. The Savages do not even want a to go through with a custody battle.
Make no mistake about it, that was probably the hardest thing she could ever do. She carried someone elses child for nine months and hand him over no problem. Even if it is not her child she still had to fall in love with him.
They have hired attorneys to make sure that clinic accepts responsibility for their "small" role in this whole incident. If you are interested in seeing people lose all their money then you need to pay attention to this. This clinic will be renamed The Savage-Morell or Morell-Savage clinic after it is all said and done.
As a man, imagine the moment when you are about to have your first born son, then imagine someone walks in the room and says they are the daddy. That’s how it would feel to me. Devastating.
I would not have been surprised if this headlined read: “Clinic gets blown for up dumbest mistake in medical history.”
So the Morrell’s have a baby boy along with twins and the Savages have nothing but a hospital bill.
So the Morrell’s have a baby boy along with twins and the Savages have nothing but a hospital bill.
Behind the cute puppy at the pet store
When one is confronted with the cute watery eyes of a pet store puppy, it may be hard to resist taking that puppy home. There are thousands of puppies sold in pet stores every year. Because these puppies are so cute, no one stops to question where these puppies come from in the first place.
Do not be fooled when a pet store tells you “Our puppies come from breeders, not puppy mills”. Anyone with two dogs who just casually decided to breed them could be considered a breeder.
In most cases, the puppies come from puppy mills where the puppies’ parents are kept in uncleanly cages for their entire life. Their paws know nothing of the feeling of soft grass underneath them but that of a cold and painful metal floor. They are there to be bred and nothing more. They never get to experience a family or happiness. Cramped in a small cage for their entire lives, many develop health and psychological problems. Many never even get veterinary care if they get sick yet they continue to be bred.
The puppies born are taken away from their parents as early as four weeks old. They are then shipped off to a pet store to be sold for a profit. Because of the uncleanly environment that they grew up in, many of the puppies sold have health problems for the rest of their life. These puppies are just for profit. Little care is actually put into their actual wellbeing.
When the parent of the puppy becomes too old or unable to reproduce, they are either abandoned or killed. According to the video, the dogs that are abandoned life their life on the streets with little idea where their next meal will come from. Many die from exposure, disease, injury or starvation. A lucky few are picked up and taken to a pound where they have at least a slim chance of finding a new home.
Even after those few are taken to the pound, this is no guarantee for a better life. Between three to four million cats and dogs are euthanized in shelters each year. Many of these pets are given up by their owners who just purchased them on a whim without researching the breed first. Others are there because they are too old or show behavior problems due to insufficient training. Some simply do not have the funds to properly care for the animal. Because of this, shelters are overcrowded and end up having to euthanize animals to free up space.
For the puppy mill dogs that are not abandoned, they are subject to euthanasia or other cruelties. The video explains that because of the expense of euthanasia, other more painful methods of killing are often used. When multiple dogs are to be killed, the dogs may be put into a gas chamber where it could take as long as twenty minutes to die. The dogs may be poisoned with cyanide and be left writhing in pain until they finally die. Others may simply be shot.
Are pet stores really worth the pain and suffering that dogs have to go though? For that one cute puppy staring at you at the puppy store, its parents live their lives in misery. They suffer to produce puppies and nothing more. Their lives will never be filled with love or care and they end their lives with a painful death.Dogs with just a slim chance of survival are waiting to be adopted at animal shelters all over the world. Instead of that one cute puppy in the window, it would be better to adopt from a shelter. You would not only be saving the life of a dog but giving it warmth and love as well. Somewhere in a shelter, a dog is waiting just for you.
Lisa Hilburn
You gt taught a lesson!
You got learned!
Ever tried hard at memorizing terms for history class or practicing some math problems but just couldn’t get it down in time for the test? Well here is where the U.S. government steps in. Now you are in good hands! Proposed extension for school by President Obama is the next big thing. Be prepared for shorter summers.
President Obama’s assertion for the academic decline among Public school children is based on the results the state of Massacheutts have seen after implementing this program into their schools. Natalie Ritz of NBC news quoted, “Early results from Massacheutts’ expanded learning time initiative, which adds extra time to the school year, show that some students involved in the program do better on state tests than those at regular public schools.”
Mr. Obama’s claim is taken further by advacating that the challenges of this century demands more time in the classroom. Because of more technological advancements and the economic burden (because of the recession and bailout revenues) that has been placed on our generation, it is safe to say that the President proposal for longer school days is to provide a future remedy for harsh economic times to come. Therefore he implies that the result of more academic exposure will not only build a stronger economy but also a better future. I actually agree with President Obama’s proposal to an extent. Yes it is true that even though standardized testing has been going on in the U.S. but it gradually become ineffective over the years because of it broadness and generality. Therefore overall academic improvements are not very visible when it comes to standardized testing. Specifics (subject by subject) need to be covered first. And maybe the extra time in school will do the trick. The need for higher education is there, but as you might know, not every parent stands by his side on the issue of extended school days.
Many parents are distraught at the notion from the Department of Education. Because they play an important role in their children’s schooling, some may accept the new changes brought about by the federal government and others may not. The trick would be to weigh the pros and cons or use the President’s proposal as a case study at a public school.
Longer school days would be the equivalent of summer school. It may bring relief to parents who work late hours and can’t afford to leave their jobs in or to pick up their children. Also, it will give kids with low academic scores some time to redeem themselves and grasp the curriculum. On the hand, kids with high academic achievements who participate in extra curricular activities may have to compromise with those activities or cut them short; and who know how angry the parents of those individuals may become as a result of education.
There are so many controversies that could rise up if this notion form the White House passes through. Hypothetically, it will help increase the knowledge of students nationwide and propel them toward technical excellence. In the main time most would presume that our educational system is doing just fine.
Time is always changing things and today is the day to begin changing how the nation’s educational system operates. More days of school for a better tomorrow, bring it on.
mark
Ever tried hard at memorizing terms for history class or practicing some math problems but just couldn’t get it down in time for the test? Well here is where the U.S. government steps in. Now you are in good hands! Proposed extension for school by President Obama is the next big thing. Be prepared for shorter summers.
President Obama’s assertion for the academic decline among Public school children is based on the results the state of Massacheutts have seen after implementing this program into their schools. Natalie Ritz of NBC news quoted, “Early results from Massacheutts’ expanded learning time initiative, which adds extra time to the school year, show that some students involved in the program do better on state tests than those at regular public schools.”
Mr. Obama’s claim is taken further by advacating that the challenges of this century demands more time in the classroom. Because of more technological advancements and the economic burden (because of the recession and bailout revenues) that has been placed on our generation, it is safe to say that the President proposal for longer school days is to provide a future remedy for harsh economic times to come. Therefore he implies that the result of more academic exposure will not only build a stronger economy but also a better future. I actually agree with President Obama’s proposal to an extent. Yes it is true that even though standardized testing has been going on in the U.S. but it gradually become ineffective over the years because of it broadness and generality. Therefore overall academic improvements are not very visible when it comes to standardized testing. Specifics (subject by subject) need to be covered first. And maybe the extra time in school will do the trick. The need for higher education is there, but as you might know, not every parent stands by his side on the issue of extended school days.
Many parents are distraught at the notion from the Department of Education. Because they play an important role in their children’s schooling, some may accept the new changes brought about by the federal government and others may not. The trick would be to weigh the pros and cons or use the President’s proposal as a case study at a public school.
Longer school days would be the equivalent of summer school. It may bring relief to parents who work late hours and can’t afford to leave their jobs in or to pick up their children. Also, it will give kids with low academic scores some time to redeem themselves and grasp the curriculum. On the hand, kids with high academic achievements who participate in extra curricular activities may have to compromise with those activities or cut them short; and who know how angry the parents of those individuals may become as a result of education.
There are so many controversies that could rise up if this notion form the White House passes through. Hypothetically, it will help increase the knowledge of students nationwide and propel them toward technical excellence. In the main time most would presume that our educational system is doing just fine.
Time is always changing things and today is the day to begin changing how the nation’s educational system operates. More days of school for a better tomorrow, bring it on.
mark
Ecambia County Corruption
The Escambia County Police Department has been accused of abuse of power, harassment, and physical abuse on Escambia County Sheriff's forum of Topix. I myself have witnessed these criminal acts and the way I was treated was the same as many others.
According to "anotherguy" from The Escambia County Sheriff's topic, he was pulled over by a Escambia County police officer and was immediately met with cursing and yelling from the officer(several witnesses were accounted for). He was then pulled by his clothing to the officer's car, put in handcuffs, and then threatened. After being handcuffed he was given a $85.00 ticket and was never told what the ticket was for.
In a video on youtube a man was released from jail and was told by a deputy that he had changed his mind and the man was to get handcuffed and put back in jail while the man was on the phone with his lawyer. As the man is speaking with the lawyer, the conversation between the policeman and the person being detained is recorded and you can hear the misconduct that the officer performs.
On the Escambia County Sheriff's topic "Bob" claims a county official of the jail bragged to the people that he has the judicial system in his pocket and has proved so by getting his son out of a hit and run felony and walked away clean.
When a police officer threatens your safety and well-being he is abusing his power. It is just as illegal as one person threatening another person, but yet it is always dismissed with either a slap on the wrist or nothing at all.
These officers feel invincible because they hold the title of "the law," yet the same people who are suppose to protect the law are abusing it. With the crime rates already as high as they are we should be able to at least feel safe around the officers who are suppose to enforce them. In such a corrupt county as Escambia, we must rely on ourselves in order to stay safe.
I was also a victim of a Escambia County police officer during a house party that they claimed was a "open house party."
According to various other police officers that I have spoken to prior to the house party, a "open house party" is considered so when people are visible in the front of a resident's home, the door to the residential area is open, and when a police officer is capable of looking into the house and seeing alcohol.
Each of these situations were regulated and managed carefully in order to avoid breaking any of the rules stated, but I was somehow charged for it. Also, I did not permit the police to come into the house, but they still barged right in. After being put in handcuffs, I was not read my rights and was immediately put in the car to be sent downtown.
After getting my report back my charge was changed to possession of alcohol although no alcohol was in my hand at the time and I was not breathalyzed to show any proof of alcohol use. I have yet to go to court, but I will know the outcome on October 15th.
I just like many other bloggers have chosen to bring my story to the masses instead of pursuing legal action in hopes of justice through media. There are a lot of voices out there willing to tell their experience with the Escambia County Police Department we just need a better way of reaching the public.
-Alonzo Prendergast
According to "anotherguy" from The Escambia County Sheriff's topic, he was pulled over by a Escambia County police officer and was immediately met with cursing and yelling from the officer(several witnesses were accounted for). He was then pulled by his clothing to the officer's car, put in handcuffs, and then threatened. After being handcuffed he was given a $85.00 ticket and was never told what the ticket was for.
In a video on youtube a man was released from jail and was told by a deputy that he had changed his mind and the man was to get handcuffed and put back in jail while the man was on the phone with his lawyer. As the man is speaking with the lawyer, the conversation between the policeman and the person being detained is recorded and you can hear the misconduct that the officer performs.
On the Escambia County Sheriff's topic "Bob" claims a county official of the jail bragged to the people that he has the judicial system in his pocket and has proved so by getting his son out of a hit and run felony and walked away clean.
When a police officer threatens your safety and well-being he is abusing his power. It is just as illegal as one person threatening another person, but yet it is always dismissed with either a slap on the wrist or nothing at all.
These officers feel invincible because they hold the title of "the law," yet the same people who are suppose to protect the law are abusing it. With the crime rates already as high as they are we should be able to at least feel safe around the officers who are suppose to enforce them. In such a corrupt county as Escambia, we must rely on ourselves in order to stay safe.
I was also a victim of a Escambia County police officer during a house party that they claimed was a "open house party."
According to various other police officers that I have spoken to prior to the house party, a "open house party" is considered so when people are visible in the front of a resident's home, the door to the residential area is open, and when a police officer is capable of looking into the house and seeing alcohol.
Each of these situations were regulated and managed carefully in order to avoid breaking any of the rules stated, but I was somehow charged for it. Also, I did not permit the police to come into the house, but they still barged right in. After being put in handcuffs, I was not read my rights and was immediately put in the car to be sent downtown.
After getting my report back my charge was changed to possession of alcohol although no alcohol was in my hand at the time and I was not breathalyzed to show any proof of alcohol use. I have yet to go to court, but I will know the outcome on October 15th.
I just like many other bloggers have chosen to bring my story to the masses instead of pursuing legal action in hopes of justice through media. There are a lot of voices out there willing to tell their experience with the Escambia County Police Department we just need a better way of reaching the public.
-Alonzo Prendergast
Handling the Homeless Situation
The effort to break ground on the Maritime Park project in downtown Pensacola has hit another small snag. Occupying the future site of the multi-million dollar project is 20-30 homeless people. This recent speed bump is in addition to the difficult task of relocating the Water Treatment Plant. The solution to the homeless problem is simple enough right? All the developers have to do is bowl the makeshift settlement over with a few bulldozers. Not quite. Although the squatters are trespassing and do not have the right to take up residence on the lot, they do have the right to pack up their belongings and relocate. Police are handling the situation as humanely as possible, posting signs notifying the homeless when they must voluntarily vacate the lot, or otherwise be forced out.The residents of the waterfront shanty town known as the “badlands”, for the lewd acts that take place there, are taking the recent eviction notice with mixed emotions. While some are reluctantly beginning their exodus, others are more understanding. Arnie Orrick, a homeless man residing on the Maritime Park lot, said “That’s all right. I was under a bridge before I came here, I can go back.”
When the Maritime Park developers finally do clear the lot of all trespassers, where will they go? This rather small issue has highlighted an even bigger issue. How do we handle the homeless situation now that it has been inflated by the fact that 20 plus homeless people now have to seek new residence? They cannot all go to the Waterfront Rescue Mission, which is already overflowing as it is, and there cannot be a new “badlands” at the already seedy location under the 1-10 overpass.
Public safety becomes a big issue now as well. An influx of homeless people around Cordova Mall has already been noticed, and it will not be long until the number of wandering vagabonds gets to be a dangerous nuisance. Nobody needs to be overcome with vibes that give off an “I might get stabbed” feeling, like the vibe one gets when the iconic “S.A.R.S. lady” passes by in full HAZMAT attire. Commuters do not need any more bums on the side of Davis Highway and Brent Lane to pity, holding up signs that say “Vietnam veteran, please help.” How many down-on-their-luck Vietnam veterans are there in this town anyway? I am not saying that homeless people do not deserve pity, many people whose homes have been foreclosed on in light of the struggling economy do, and while it is easy to poke fun at the homeless people’s lack of creativity when it comes to evoking pity, it is difficult to figure out just what to do with them. Yes, our homeless problem is quaint compared to that of major U.S. cities like Atlanta and New York, but from a per capita standpoint it still is an equally serious problem, only to get bigger as soon as the Maritime Park developers eradicate the “badlands”.
In a few months time we will all see just how bad Pensacola’s homeless situation will be. Maybe the problem will continue to be as it is now, noticeable but manageable. Maybe the number of homeless newspaper salesmen will bloom and a new “bag lady” will steal the spotlight from the notorious one that stalks the streets around Cordova Mall. Only time will tell what truly becomes of the homeless situation, but a few pre-emptive measures might be in order. Perhaps some of the huge budget for the Maritime Park should be contributed to building new missions, and housing that not only keeps the homeless safe, but the general public as well. Odds are that will not happen, but something has to be done before a small problem becomes a big one.
Daniel Printz
So you think your a role model?
On August 10, 2009, many people tuned in to watch the Teen Choice Awards that aired on FOX. Lots of famous entertainers were slated to perform, but there was one particular tween sensation that stood out from the rest. Performing her song "Party in the USA", Miley Cyrus emerged from a trailer in short shorts and leather boots. With her Beyonce-like butt bounce and Britney Spears look, Miley put the icing on the cake when she got on top of an ice cream cart complete with a pole.One might think that the pole was just to help her move around the stage, but that wasn't all. Miley then proceeded to "drop it like its hot" on the pole and thrust her hips like Michael Jackson. After the performance was over she recieved a standing ovation from her father. Does anyone find aything wrong with that? One lady watching the show with her 12 year old daughter responded "we saw her come out of the trialer and were completely shocked".
It is this type of performace that makes me wonder why people think that it is okay for children to look up to girls who dress and act inappropriately for their age.
After her performance, Miley presented Bitney Spears with the Ultimate Choice award and called Spears her own "personal hero". First of all, the fact that Britney Spears is a person Miley Cyrus looks up to is very alarming. Mentally, the once before Mickey Mouse Musketeer has been off her game, though she claims to be doing better.
Apart from her risque performance on the Teen Choice awards and eyebrow-raising MySpace pictures, Cyrus also shows that it is okay to make fun of her peers. In a video on youtube Demi Lovato and Selena Gomez, who are probably the most suitable role models out of Disney right now, made a video talking to fans.Miley and her friend Mandy decided to mock fellow Disney castmates in a video of their own. (I would have inserted the video but had trouble doing so).
Is that the kind of person we want to look up to? What kind of examples is she setting for younger kids watching her? She is letting them know that what she is doing and how she is dressing is okay, but it is not. Miley is sixteen and should act like the young lady she could be.
But Miley Cyrus is not the only Disney star to grow up too fast. Famous names such as Lindsay Lohan, Vanessa Hudgens, Britney Spears, and Christina Aguilera are among the female "role models" that have displayed inappropriate behavior and were at one point being closely watched by young girls who wanted to be just like them.
Whatever happened to looking up to Disney princesses? Lots of them were portrayed as strong leaders who didn't always need a guy to come to their rescue. Raven Symone and Hilary Duff are even suitable enough role models from the Disney channel. But no one likes a "good girl".
A role model is a positive influence on one's peers and is someone for somebody to look up to and aspire to be. I don't think we want Miley Cyrus or Linday Lohan clones running around. Young children need to have positive influences to watch and behave like. If they have to look up to someone in the media, let it be Natalie Portman or Alicia Keyes. Emma Watson from the Harry Potter series is even acceptable. Those girls are educated or either educated bound. They have goals and other aspirations. What is Miley Cyrus' aspiration? To be a nutter like Britney Spears.
If you can, try to be a leader for your children, nieces, cousins, neighbors and small friends. Give them a real, positive person to look up to instead of a "just out of puberty" teen on t.v.
-Kiersten Williams
King Obama?
Earlier this year, second-graders at B. Bernice Young Elementary School in Burlington, New Jersey were instructed to sing songs of praise regarding President Obama. Although the students sang the songs in February as a part of Black History Month, the video of the children singing was just recently discovered by many on YouTube, and as a result, was featured on Foxnews.com.
In one of the songs, the students repeatedly chant, “Mmm mmm mm, Barack Hussein Obama” and also make a reference to the religious song “Jesus Loves the Little Children” by saying, “He said red, yellow, black or white, all are equal in his sight.” Many parents and school board and community members were outraged, calling it “indoctrination.” Others, however, such as Andrea Ciemnolonski, believed that it was simply an appreciation for Black History Month, although some of the lyrics were a little “exuberant.”
Furthermore, viewers of the footage posted on YouTube were also outraged, some of which even sent death threats to the school’s principal, which resulted in the school being placed temporarily on lockdown.
“Praising” Obama may or may not be the right word to describe what the students were doing by singing these songs. It doesn’t really seem like the children are “worshiping” or “hailing” Obama, but here’s the problem: We live in America. Therefore, we have a president, not a king. We do not have to sing songs about him. We do not have to do dances for him, or any other nonsense. He does not rule over us. He rules for us. However, if we want to do any of these things, we are free to. But these kids didn’t have much of a choice. They were doing what they were told.
Politics does not belong in an elementary school. As one of the grandparents of the children says, “This has no place in the classroom.” Young kids should not be putting on plays or musical performances about political issues or figures. The teachers and administration should be concerned with teaching the students the basic subjects of school, not political matters that are meant to be discussed and debated by adults. Not only is it already inappropriate for young children, but the children’s parents or guardians may not even support Obama. And by telling them to sing songs in favor of President Obama, it violates the rights people have as parents to teach their children certain values and beliefs.
Also, just like school officials can no longer talk about God or promote any type of religion, the same should go for political opinions. And by allowing the students at the school to sing songs in support of President Obama, it gives them the impression that they should support him too, with which some parents may not agree. When this video was made, in February, recently elected President Obama had only been in office for a few weeks, so he most likely had very few accomplishments as President anyway.
No other president has been praised and/or celebrated in school, especially while still in office, and it should stay that way. If you want to express you political opinion, do so through a different method. Don’t bring the kids into it.
By: Kirsten Robinson
In one of the songs, the students repeatedly chant, “Mmm mmm mm, Barack Hussein Obama” and also make a reference to the religious song “Jesus Loves the Little Children” by saying, “He said red, yellow, black or white, all are equal in his sight.” Many parents and school board and community members were outraged, calling it “indoctrination.” Others, however, such as Andrea Ciemnolonski, believed that it was simply an appreciation for Black History Month, although some of the lyrics were a little “exuberant.”
Furthermore, viewers of the footage posted on YouTube were also outraged, some of which even sent death threats to the school’s principal, which resulted in the school being placed temporarily on lockdown.
“Praising” Obama may or may not be the right word to describe what the students were doing by singing these songs. It doesn’t really seem like the children are “worshiping” or “hailing” Obama, but here’s the problem: We live in America. Therefore, we have a president, not a king. We do not have to sing songs about him. We do not have to do dances for him, or any other nonsense. He does not rule over us. He rules for us. However, if we want to do any of these things, we are free to. But these kids didn’t have much of a choice. They were doing what they were told.
Politics does not belong in an elementary school. As one of the grandparents of the children says, “This has no place in the classroom.” Young kids should not be putting on plays or musical performances about political issues or figures. The teachers and administration should be concerned with teaching the students the basic subjects of school, not political matters that are meant to be discussed and debated by adults. Not only is it already inappropriate for young children, but the children’s parents or guardians may not even support Obama. And by telling them to sing songs in favor of President Obama, it violates the rights people have as parents to teach their children certain values and beliefs.
Also, just like school officials can no longer talk about God or promote any type of religion, the same should go for political opinions. And by allowing the students at the school to sing songs in support of President Obama, it gives them the impression that they should support him too, with which some parents may not agree. When this video was made, in February, recently elected President Obama had only been in office for a few weeks, so he most likely had very few accomplishments as President anyway.
No other president has been praised and/or celebrated in school, especially while still in office, and it should stay that way. If you want to express you political opinion, do so through a different method. Don’t bring the kids into it.
By: Kirsten Robinson
Sunday, September 27, 2009
The Little Flu that could
The little flu that could
Once again humans have reunited under a single banner of hope. The developed countries have banned together before to squish diseases and pesky little viruses, and won against them. We have eradicated polio from the Americas in 1994 .
However there is a new foe that is infecting and killing individuals with deficient immune systems, the young, the old and the pregnant. H1N1 is a strain of type A influenza, more commonly known as swine flu by the media and the public.
The sad and scary thing about this strain of flu is that it really isn’t much different from other strains of flu floating around. But with the powers of mass media and the forever constant ability to access “news” an epidemic of fear of death has spread.
So this little flu is chugging away. It was first detected by the CDC in the United States in April of 2009 and by June 11 the World Health Organization decided the H1N1 flu deserved the title of pandemic.
Rather depressingly the media and at least the people of the United States became paranoid about being infected by swine flu. People wanted to boycott pork, and anything else relating to the word swine. Naturally the uniformed are the mass majority of the paranoid.
The CDC and other government groups tried to point out the silly facts that people were ignoring. People don’t realize that this flu is transmitted like all other flu’s, from contact with an infected person.
But much damage was done from the nickname of swine flu. Even though the H1N1, swine flu, has two flu genes that normally are found in pigs, avian and human in Europe and Asia (CDC).
So the little flu that could has started a worldwide craze for a vaccine. As usual the ignorant or uniformed don’t realize that if a vaccine is made in time before they are infected that it is only effective if this strain of flu does not mutate.
According to Merriam-Webster online dictionary a vaccine is a preparation of killed microorganisms, living attenuated organisms, or living fully virulent organisms that is administered to produce or artificially increase immunity to a particular disease.
This vaccine is being created to prevent further deaths and serious complications from H1N1.
However I foresee there being problems with this vaccine. Typically vaccines like all medicines have to be tinkered with and pushed through many mandated trials and are reviewed before being issued and pushed onto the public.
But with this “pandemic” only a short few months after the H1N1 strain has started circulating there is promise of an outcome of vaccines. According to ABC news, there will be six to seven million doses of this vaccine ready in the first week of October. That’s only a week or so away.
Vaccines like to be given good press, in hope of preventing deaths in the populations where people have higher interests in, like children, pregnant and the old. However when the government states the people who are vaccinated are to going to be track and watched just in case of side effects.
Yet again this little flu that has been deemed a pandemic is causing paranoia. The H1N1 strain of the flu is causing more children and young adults to die from complications from the flu than normal.
The sad thing about this pesky little flu is that it really isn’t that serious. It hasn’t killed anymore individuals than the run of the mill flu. But we have hyped it to be so much more.
Kristen Kendall
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