Monday, October 31, 2016

Kobe Williams (1st Period) - U.S. Inmates Launch a Strike

Last month, thousands of US inmates launched a nationwide protest, on the 45th anniversary of the Attica Prison uprising.  This protest was to bring notice to the "legalized slavery inside correctional facilities" and to end it. Apparently even though the 13th amendment bans slavery, it allows prisoners to work for little to no pay. So these thousands of prisoners are striking against this the unfair and dehumanizing rules. In hopes of morally better treatment.

I understand the idea of giving the prisoners work to do, in order to be productive. But it seems useless to me if there's no sort of positive reinforcement for it. Especially when the work is strenuous enough for it to seem just plain messed up for there to be no sort of fair treatment. Many people connect this to some form of slavery and I can see why they believe that. People are being put to work with little to no pay at all. Which serves no purpose to their side and is just unfair overall. I understand that there would be very many mixed feelings about the prisoners and the treatment they deserve. And I'm very curious to all of those ideas.

Source: http://www.cnn.com/2016/10/30/us/us-prisoner-strike/index.html

Kate Pinkerton - Prison Reform across the States

Summary - This article is about protests occurring throughout the country in various states and counties regarding prison reform. Prisoners think that their rights are being violated. The 13th amendment says slavery is legal if it's a punishment for crime but those being forced to work for nothing or only a few cents an hour are working to change that. Many of those working don't receive any money, as it all goes to pay off living fees. In some prisons there is racial discrimination, where those of a certain race or gang affiliation have to wear different colored jumpsuits which can affect a judges decision in the court room. In order to fix these bad conditions inmates across the country have been going on hunger and work strikes.

Analysis - The person who wrote this article was supporting the betterment of prisons. While many amendments were made to protect criminals, they still have very limited rights. It is important to have a good prison system because the happier and more well adjusted a prisoner is, the more likely they are going to return to civilization and be a functional part of society. This article has interviews with prisoners and shows the point of view of those being oppressed in the incarceration system. These protests and strikes can be synthesized to the antebellum age where there were many reforms, such as the prison reform, which are necessary to better society.


http://www.cnn.com/2016/10/30/us/us-prisoner-strike/index.html

Mollie Hamman - Bob Dylan Nobel Prize

Bob Dylan got awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature on October 13th, yet he did not announce his acceptance right away. People thought that this was rude of him. More recently he said that the award left him"speechless" and was glad to accept it.

Bob Dylan performs at The Hop Festival in Paddock Wood, Kent on June 30 2012

http://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-37806639


Cal Thompson, 1st period - Fancy Schools: Fancy Results?

This article explains the glorification of selective high schools. Parents will go out of their way to pay for tutoring or even a move. The article goes on to explore the actual benefits of such schooling, which aren't many. Actual academic improvements are small or nonexistent. However, students at selective schools report feeling safer and are more likely to attend school.
This article relates to us especially due to our high school. While the article mostly reflects upon academically selective schools, Booker is still evident in the image it paints. We feel safe here because we are surrounded by artists, just as people attending TAG may feel more at home surrounded by intellectuals (not that I am saying the terms are mutually exclusive in any way, and I truly do wish booker put more emphasis on academics). It's nice to know that elitist schools may not be as beneficial as perceived, especially considering their often costly nature. Even our dear school seems harshly selective at times. Some students are able to move to make their acceptance easier, while others cannot. Some can afford to drive daily to school. We are not on even ground, even in this haven, and we must acknowledge this. Some of us loathe going home at the end of the day due to our family lives, and many of us suffer from lack of sleep. However, we have this magical place, and it is not perfect, but it is ours, and I am very tired, so I bid you adieu.

Source: https://www.theatlantic.com/education/archive/2016/10/is-attending-the-best-high-school-academically-irrelevant/505940/

Anna Czyzewski - Medication Abortion Rivals Surgery

Summary: Recently, a study has shown that abortion by prescription are quickly rising to the same numbers of abortion by surgery. Although these medications were approved 16 years ago, people have persuaded politicians to limit the use of them. Even when the Supreme Court ruled that abortion is a woman's right, many people still believe that this right should be controlled. Medication abortions somewhat provide protection against protesters and violence centered around Planned Parenthood and can be administered at the comfort of the woman's own home. In addition, these medications have brought abortions to many women who are in need. Women in rural areas who are being affected negatively by their pregnancy and run the risk of dying schedule video conferences with doctors in more industrialized places. Since their local doctor may not be able to perform surgery, these women have a huge opportunity to save their lives.

Analysis: Abortion is a very big topic argued by many politicians, especially the presidential candidates. Now that abortions can be done in the comfort of the person's own home, it opens many new opportunities for birth control options and other medicines alike. If something like abortion can be done without surgery, think what else could be done. Medicine in history has always improved and has passed its predecessors in efficiency. Herbal remedies led to surgery, and surgery led to medicine. It's just how technology and innovations work to improve our lives and retain our rights.


(source)

Madelyn Dean - Why Clinton's Emails Matter

Hillary Clinton was part of the impeachment of Nixon, foWatergate scandal , and the irony is this election has roused the argument that Trump is worse than Watergate. During the Watergate Investigation the FBI  sat on information causing distrust in the government all together however Anthony Weiner, an FBI agent, has proven other wise by the releasing of new emails. For Hillary to create her own email account with classified federal information creates questions as to wether this information was aproved by the CIA or Federal government. To prove Clinton's worthy to be president she must prove and reassure Americans the importance in classified federal information.

This article written by the new York times shows how even though this isn't the biggest f in American politics, Hillary has still messed up and needs to fix it considering her soon to be gained presidency. This whole election has been such a TV drama that with Trump's tax returns and Hillarys emails these public s candles relate to the Watergate scandle, besides the point that it's not as big of a deal.

Why Clinton's Emails Matter, New York times

Obama: Clinton's ambition might be questioned if she's president


Angelica Salazar 
1st period

The article is very short but very informative in which it gives all the necessities. President Barrack Obama talks in an interview about both Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump, which isn't new whatsoever due to the upcoming presidential election. He states that Hillary's views on how to fix world issues may be questioned by others due to the different views in being a female. This is Obama's small saying that even if Hillary's femine views are different compared to past made decisions, they are still much better than Donald Trumps. 

All throughout history, presidents that have previously been elected were white, rich men. It's pretty accurate due to racial issues starting from George Washington's era as well as now. Even though fight for individual rights in the society for gender and race has continued, most people would vote for Clinton because she is a woman. I, on the other hand, wouldn't consider whether she is a male, female, or anything else. What will she do for America? That is the question people should consider, and not questions based on individuality. The struggle for America's stable set for freedom continues, so how will the next president of the United States help us be better? 


Madilyn Weems

http://www.cnn.com/2016/10/31/politics/clinton-email-fbi-investigation/index.html

In this article the author discusses how the FBI officials are unlikely to finish their review of new emails potentially related to the investigation into Hillary Clinton's private server before the November 8 election. Officials have been meeting to discuss whether the investigation should even continue at this point and if it will only cause more harm than anything else. Officials are still taking measures to uncover the story and bring truth to the situation. In my opinion, I believe it's ridicules to even have a candidate running that needs to undergo an investigation. Our leaders should represent the best of the people we have, or at the minimum good integrity. It's a shame our two main leaders are Donald Trump and Hilary Clinton. This relates to Andrew Jackson in his Kitchen Cabinet, in the fact that he went behind many peoples backs to get things done the way he wanted, including illegal things like the Trail of Tears. 
Mackenzie Bessner- Child cancer survivor kills herself over bullying

A young brain cancer survivor committed suicide after being bullied about her looks. Bethany Thompson, 11, got off the school bus in Ohio last week and shot herself on her back porch. Bethany only shared what she was going to do with one of her close friends. She told her she loved her and that she was her best friend forever, but that she was going to kill herself when she got home. Bethany endured brain cancer 8 years ago and after having a tumor removed was left with a "crooked" smile. It was that smile that kids at school allegedly picked on. Bethany's dad told the police that he thinks that is why she took her life.

After I read this article, I was heartbroken. It baffles me how bullying is still a huge problem in the united states and that it can still lead to kids killing themselves. Bethany was only eleven and had her whole life ahead of her but the bullying led her to end her life. I do not understand why kids feel the need to make fun of people just because they look "different." I can not imagine what Bethany's family is going through right now. This article was published by CNN which is a very reliable news source.

http://www.cnn.com/2016/10/31/health/cancer-survivor-bully-trnd/

Leslie Z-One Canadian town bans teenager from trick-or-treating

We’re all excited, today is Halloween, one of the most waited holidays of the year. The only day out of 365 days that we’re allowed to be freaky and mysterious without getting trouble in with the cops. For many is not only about the costume but rather about the candy. A celebration in where not only children are participant but also everyone no matter the age, but one Canadian town is the exception. Bathurst, New Brunswick has forbidden teenagers from trick-or-treating this year. Any individual older than 14 years are ineligible to go trick-or-treat and anyone who fails to do so will be charged up to CA$200($149). Not only have they prohibited teenagers from taking part of the national holiday but they also banned any type of solicitation after 9 o clock and use of facial masks.


The article from the BBC news informs us of how different regions of the world react and respond towards Halloween. As far as the laws goes I feel like the Canadian town has violated some of the basic rights of the people because everyone should have the right to practice their individuality without having the government controlling how they dress and how they practice a certain holiday. Plus, who can really say that a teenager is too old to go to trick or treating no matter the age people are young in heart.

Emily Anderson- women drink as much as men?

     Recently, there has been a study on the alcoholic consumption gap between males and females. Scientists have shown that more and more women are starting to drink as much as men. In the 1990s, men were twice as likely to intake alcohol than women. Now, men are only 1.1 times more likely to drink alcohol than women. There has been a huge change in the alcohol consumption gap in the past century. This is most likely the effect from the equality of women over time. Studies have shown that women are more likely to drink as much as men in a country where they are treated the same. Since in the United States, women have worked very hard for equal pay and treatment in society, the gap has decreased immensely.
     This current event relates to the Temperance Movement in the Antebellum Age of the 1800s. This reform movement was a opposition of the use of alcohol. The head of the this charge was the women of the time period. Most women helped with shutting down saloons, so the men would't drink. Drinking was considered to be the cause of family violence from the male figure in the house. It is very interesting to see how much the United States' opinion towards alcohol has changed throughout history. The eighteen amendment was created to ban all alcohol in the U.S. but then was later repealed by the twenty-first amendment. Now, women have almost closed the gap between the amount of alcohol consumption of men to women.


http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/313662.php

Hayley Cagle, Mosul Civilians Without Escape Route on Eve of ISIS Fight

Summary: Hundreds of thousands of civilians are stranded in Mosul, even though they were informed that they'd be protected by U.S. and Baghdad workers. Now, the most important need is to find a safe way to get the people out. Pentagon officials believe that Islamic State defectors willi try to blend in with the innocent people as they are escaping, so they've set up a prescreening area before anyone may enter one of the aid camps.

Analysis: This is a tough situation, because there's innocent people trapped with threats all around them, but there is no way to safely evacuate them. Some people have suggested bombing the area, but anyone with morals would know that that is not an option. The way they have planned to handle the situation is much more appropriate. The citizens can be led to a safer area and be filtered to ensure their safety.

http://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2016-10-31/reports-mosul-civilians-without-escape-route-on-eve-of-isis-fight

Madison Harvey: DAPL


Summary:  The Standing Rock Sioux Tribe is protesting the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL) and on Thursday more than 140 people were arrested when law enforcement forced protesters miles from the area.  Even though, the activist say they are not giving in and are prepared for a prolonged standoff through what they expect to be a harsh winter.  The protestors are staying in traditional camping tents, tipis and make shift structures.  They have been gathering since late summer and now have other groups joining them to protest.   like the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, Great Seminole Nation of Oklahoma and the Tulalip Tribe as well as non indian groups.  The 1,172 mile pipeline will connect North Dakota to Illinois and will pump crude oil to refineries.  Supporters for the pipeline say this will be an economic boom for the area and reduce our dependence for foreign oil.  The Standing Rock Sioux Tribe said the pipeline has threatened its economy and environment.  The pipeline will cross under the Missouri River just a half mile from the Standing Rock Sioux Indian Reservation.  They get their water from this river and any oil spills will put their water supply at risk.

Analysis:  This article was written by Emanuella Grinberg, Brad Parks, Jessica Ravitz and Sara Sidner and published by CNN.  I have seen bits and pieces of this story on the news prior to reading this article but didn't know exactly why they were protesting until now. This article was written to inform the reader about the on going situation in North Dakota.  I understand the frustration the Indian Tribe must feel and this reminds me of the Indian Removal Act although it doesn't compare in severity.   

Maggie Gibson - NASA's New 'Intruder Alert' System Spots An Incoming Asteroid

On Sunday night, a large space rock came very close to Earth. Thanks to new program in NASA called Scout, it can track the projected path of objects flying through space to detect potentially dangerous ones. It tells telescopes what to do, scans data from them and orders follow-ups. This program is technologically advanced, and is very helpful, going far beyond the technical capabilities of an average telescope, greatly speeding up the detection process. Scout is still in the testing phase, but should become fully operational later this year. It's dealing with smallish, nearby objects currently.
This is a really interesting and fascinating technological advancement that I think will benefit us as a human race greatly. It's still very sad, because of how rapidly NASA is losing priority and funding quickly. I think this program greatly points to the importance behind space exploration and the science behind it, and how it can be used to directly benefit us on Earth, and hopefully NASA will gain some priority on funding. This can be synthesized to space shuttle program first launched by NASA in 1981.
http://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2016/10/30/499751470/nasas-new-intruder-alert-system-spots-an-incoming-asteroid

Payton Climer



This article was about the post tracking poll that was released this week. The results were kind of scary, having Trump right on Hillary's tail in the election. He is only down by about 5 percent, and if he gets any closer there is no way to tell what is going to happen on Election Day. Before reading this article I knew that the candidates were both pretty close to each other in the race but I still can see how Trump is so close to Hillary. It's scary to think that going into the election there is no specific side that has more chances of winning. This just means that anything can happen next week. This article was written by Eric Brander, on October 31, 2016. This makes the information accurate and current. The author doesn't show any bias and just states the facts of the electoral race. This article was written to inform the readers on the closeness of the race. It has a positive influence on the readers because it persuades the viewers to vote in a way and increases awareness. This article relates to the presidential election of 1824. This election was another close election of John Adams and John Quincy Adams.




http://www.cnn.com/2016/10/30/politics/poll-clinton-trump-florida-north-carolina/index.html

New York magazine labels Trump a 'loser.' -Bakari Williams

Summary: The article is just trying to justify the exact cause of the calling of Trump a loser on this major magazine cover. The calling of Trump, as the article says, could be capitalizing on Trumps use of single word epithets. It could also very well refer to how it looks like the election will turn out or maybe just blatantly a description of Trump. No matter the cause, the cover of the magazine makes a rather bold statement on Trump either way. However, no matter what the election results in, Trump has changed America whether people believe it was for the better or the worse. Trumps candidacy in itself symbolizes that there will be or is a shift in the Republican party and maybe in turn the Democratic party as well.

Analysis: This candidacy is related to almost any presidential election that came before the 20th century. Both candidates are running campaigns that are mostly focused on verbally abusing and dragging the others' name through the mud. Although in elections back then, there was more of a battle of the gun than just the podium, the some of the similarities are still uncanny, especially to those like the almost child-like behavior in the debates.

Jay'La Sims - Trump campaign using targeted Facebook posts to discourage black Americans from voting

SUMMARY: A new report has received information on Trump's strategy. Businessweek published a look into the campaign and explained the Trumps campaign organized data. The campaign is trying to decrease votes of Hillary Clinton. Trump campaign reportedly created a cartoon animation with Clinton repeating her now-infamous line about "super predators," pairing it with the text, "Hillary Thinks African Americans are Super Predators." There's nothing new about opponents trashing each other but using Facebook is a different strategy.

ANALYSIS: This article was written by Colin Lecher. It is also recent from October 27. Articles like this are very important especially since people are now voting. It shows us the inside of Trumps campaign and his tactics. I'm not surprised by this information and it seems like something his campaign would do. This can connect to the corrupt bargain.


http://www.theverge.com/2016/10/27/13434246/donald-trump-targeted-dark-facebook-ads-black-voters?utm_campaign=theverge&utm_content=chorus&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter

Marisa Vasquez

Synthesis:  This article explains Trumps reactions to the failed attack on ISIS. He comments, "The attack on Mosul is turning out to be a total disaster. We gave them months of notice. U.S. is looking so dumb" via twitter. 


Analysis:   Trump wants to " Make America great again!" and by doing so he is blaming what is happening now to campaign himself. 


http://www.cnn.com/2016/10/31/politics/trump-pentagon-mosul-differ/index.html

Leah Nowell - Ohio child cancer survivor kills herself over bullying - 8th

10/31/16

Summary ;

The relentless bullying became too much to handle for an 11-year-old girl with a "crooked" smile, her mother said. At 3 years old, Bethany Thompson was diagnosed with a brain tumor and battled through radiation treatments. Though cancer-free since 2008, treatment caused nerve damage that changed Bethany's smile. That, and her curly hair, led to bullying, said Bethany's mother, Wendy Feucht. Feucht said after a particularly tough Wednesday with bullies, Bethany told her best friend she couldn't take it anymore, and was going to take her own life.The Cable, Ohio, sixth grader killed herself that afternoon, October 19. Her friend's father called Bethany's mom, but it was too late. Bethany found a gun kept in the house, and shot herself one time, police said. Feucht said Bethany would have had to go searching for a weapon, as she and her husband never told their children where they were and kept the guns out of sight. Her family and friends remember Bethany as generous and loving, and full of life. She loved swimming and animals and listening to music. The school tried to investigate. The community has rallied around Bethany's family. Nearly 400 people flocked to the North Lewisburg United Methodist Church on Sunday evening for a fundraiser to cover funeral costs. The raffle dinner event raised over $5,500, in addition to $2,000 offered in donations, said Ashley Cozad, a family friend who organized the event. The family plans to use the remaining funds to set up a scholarship fund in Bethany's name and to raise anti-bullying awareness. They hope to be a part of movement, and that Bethany's memory will live on as a reminder of the importance of kindness and a zero-tolerance for bullying. "If this were the last life, that her death could stop it, she would be thrilled," Feucht said.

http://www.cnn.com/2016/10/31/health/cancer-survivor-bully-trnd/

Hannah Howell- Mom Holds Separated Twins For The First Time


Summary:
Just recently, two twin babies named Jadon and Anias, who were previously conjoined at the head, were separated. The parents were so thrilled that the procedure was successful. It was a 27 hour long surgery. The website shows touching pictures of the mother holding her son for the first time and you can see the pure happiness on her face. Anias is healing at a slower rate than Jadon, but there it looks like promising outcomes for both of them.

Analysis:
This is one of the most touching and miraculous things I have ever hear of. The advances in the medical field that are being made are astounding. I wish the best for this family and hope that the babies recover fully and are able to live happy, healthy lives.

http://www.cnn.com/2016/10/23/health/mcdonald-conjoined-twin-separated-held-for-first-time/

Matthew Zapata - Clinton's emails are unfinished business

   Hillary clinton's email investigation is running longer than initially expected, potentially massing around with the outcome of the presidential race. CNN released this article which was written by Pamela BrownEvan Perez and Eric Bradner. Although this is not an opinion based article, the fact that three different authors collaborated to make this could be the source for some fault in the article to arise, in which case I don't see any. The investigation revolving around Hillary Clinton's email scandal were predicted to be over with before the 2016 presidential election began on November 8th, but because the FBI found new evidence the investigation could likely continue past the election date. This email investigation is brought to attention again which could potentially look bad on Hillary's poll outcomes in the future. A resolution in this investigation would have been ideal and gave Hillary a better chance at winning this election because of the resolved conflict. After reading this article in full I don't understand the reasons or specifics for why the investigation lasting longer will hurt her chances of winning and hope to read more about this specific topic from other sources. 

http://www.cnn.com/2016/10/31/politics/clinton-email-fbi-investigation/index.html

Linnea Soderlund: Attack on Autistic Black Teen

Summary: This article by Amy B. Wang tells the horrific story of a 15 year old non-verbal autistic athlete who was the victim of an unprovoked and assumably racist attack. Chase Coleman was a successful cross-country runner for his high school team in Syracuse, New York. He was running one race when he was attacked by an older white man who got out of his car to harass the teen because he thought he was being mugged. The case was dismissed by the court system, to the dismay of many peers, parents, and board members.

Analysis: This story breaks my heart. This young boy was doing so well in spite of the challenges he faced, only to have that crushed by some racist jerk who can't mind his own business. Chase is a great example of the success that kids suffering from autism and other disabilities can reach. He overcame a lot to be able to run in those races and I hate to see that go to waste. This sort of bigotry and hate is unacceptable and deeply saddening.

Synthesis: This can obviously be related to all the stories of systematic and societal racism in this country such as police brutality, unjust incarcerations, etc. I hate that this has become so painfully normal.

Emily McDougal - Conjoined Twins Separated after 13 Months

Summary: Anais and Jadon were twins that had been conjoined for 13 months until a 27 hour surgery, performed by Dr. James Goodrich, separated them. This incredible doctor is best craniopagus surgeon in the world, and this surgery was only the 59th craniopagus surgery since 1952. Following this miracle procedure, their mother was able to hold Jadon for the first time in his life. Jadon is seeming to be promisingly healthy, while Anais is recovering more slowly, but both babies have been reported to be doing well. These twins have caught the eye of social media and are being supported by people around the world.

Analysis: This article was written on October 24, 2016, by Wayne Drash, to inform readers about the incredible surgery that these twins went through. This amazing procedure just shows how technology develops to allow us to perform feats like this one. As science becomes more and more advanced, more opportunities arise to allow us to save lives and create a healthier world to live in. This is important because it shows how advanced our societies are becoming, and the incredible work that doctors and scientists can do.

Synthesis: The first successful craniopagus surgery was performed in Germany by Benjamin Solomon Carson. For the first time, twins that were occipital craniopagus survived a separation procedure.

Colonial's gasoline, distillate lines shut after explosion, fire in Alabama

Colonial's gasoline, distillate lines shut after explosion, fire in Alabama

 

 A huge explosion from the Colonial Pipeline Co [COLPI.UL] during maintenance
resulting in several workers suffering serious injuries, according to the Shelby County sheriff's office. The company quickly shut down from this happening down in Shelby County, Alabama. On September 9th, the company had a spill that leaked thousands of gallons of gasoline, causing prices to rise. I was the company's biggest leak since 1997.

Dude, that's terrible. I really think that gasoline companies like these should really pay attention more to these type of things because stuff like this could actually happen, and me be a lot more fatal then this explosion.

 

 

 

 http://www.reuters.com/article/us-pipeline-blast-alabama-idUSKBN12V2FC

Gracie Darlington: USDA Approves Genetically Engineered Potatoes

The US Department of Agriculture has approved the commercial planting of two genetically modified types of potatoes. The potatoes still have to be reviewed and approved by the FDA and the US Environmental Protection Agency, the companies expecting approval in January. These new potatoes should reduce waste and use of pesticides, have reduced bruising, enhance cold storage, and be immune to the pathogen that caused the Irish potato famine. There is no evidence that GMOs are unsafe to consume, but it raises an ethical issue for many people.
This article was written to inform the reader that these genetically modified potatoes are entering the market in the near future. The author was very impartial and unbiased, not taking any side of the issue. Today many retailers and companies are against selling food that is genetically modified, and countless are labeling GMOs. In August, President Obama signed the GMO food label law, requiring all GMOs to be labeled. This can synthesize back to the 1840s, when countless Irish immigrated to America, fleeing the potato famine.

http://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/gm-potatoes-get-usda-ok-n675856

Josie Guthrey- Fossilized Dinosaur Brain!

Back in 2004, an amateur fossil hunter, Jamie Hiscocks, almost threw away an amazing discovery for mistaking it for a pebble. Much later discovered, the shiny rock was identified as a 130 million year old dinosaur brain! Scientists are amazed that such a soft-tissued organ was preserved for this long! They believe it was because the dinosaur died in a mud-like terrain where there was a lack of oxygen. Although we've always known dinosaurs had brains, actually finding one is an amazing breakthrough! More studies have shown that the brain is similar to a modern crocodile or birds.

As a science lover, I find this news amazing! This discovery reveals so much more about the life on Earth 100s of thousands of years ago. Hopefully, it can shed some light of the many questions we have!
http://www.cnn.com/2016/10/28/health/fossil-brain-cambridge-trnd/?iid=ob_homepage_deskrecommended_pool

Boko Haram and Sacrifices~ Harper Jones

Summary: Nigerian officials were abusing women in Boko Haram. In order to survive, the women there gave officers their bodies. 37 out of 43 of the camps reportedly had male officials that loured women in their sheets by "promising" them marriage, materials, and financial support. Then when the males find out the women are pregnant, they flee. No one will let the women go out of the camps to get supplies that help them survive. In other camps their are children at risk of starving to death and in another camp, people had less than half a liter of water per day. All of this ties into why women would've used their bodies to get aid.

Analysis: Before reading this article, I didn't know that there was such a camp in Nigeria called Boko Haram or any camps at all. I knew that it was bad down there, but not this bad. Women are out there offering their bodies (to people that are SUPPOSED to help them without a cost) for their survival and the survival of their children. I take this whole matter to heart because my great grandmother did the same for her children. In my eyes, she is a strong, powerful woman. Not because she slept with someone other than her husband, but the fact that she did it to keep her family fed and healthy. So these women in Nigeria, are strong and true survivors. They did not deserve that treatment and the people who did such things to them don't deserve to be called human beings, because you mustn't have any humanity in you to take advantage of vulnerable women. In conclusion, what the President of Nigeria is doing to help these women is a great thing.

https://www.buzzfeed.com/hayesbrown/a-new-report-claims-that-officials-are-abusing-women-fleeing?utm_term=.ine6eBW1L#.edyP65XaL

Audrey Griffin "First Dinosaur Brain Fossil Found"

"First Dinosaur Brain Fossil Found"

Summary: The first preserved sample of dinosaur brain tissue has just been confirmed. It was found back in 2004 in Sussex, England. Just now has it been confirmed as brain tissue due to advancements in scanning technology. Scientists believe it belonged to a species similar to the Iguanodon but it is rather large for that type of herbivorous creature. It is now being studied. We might now find out how the brains of the dinosaurs worked.

Analysis: I think this is so cool! Dinosaurs are awesome, man. And dinosaur brains are even cooler.



This can be synthesized to the first fossil ever found, the Megalosaurus. It was discovered by R. Brookes in 1763.


Qiaunci Jones- Halloween or the Fourth of July?


Studies have shown that warm weather will follow us for the next few weeks. It's a surprise since it's fall and should start getting cold. The National Weather Service office in Dodge City, Kan., is calling for a “spooky hot Halloween” with highs near 90, challenging several records in the western part of the state. The super warm Halloween day closes a month that has been exceptionally warm throughout the Lower 48. There have been about 5,000 warm weather records set compared with only about 500 cold weather records

The article is significant because of this hot/warm weather it is leaving no room for the cold weather. This problem can cause droughts and loss of water flow. Also, it is out of the ordinary. Climate is a big subject, its ironic how during the debate they were asked questions about climate change. In a regular day, people won't even think it is a big deal, but years from now it might. This relates to the big global warming situation. If the world continues to get warmer what  do you think would happen?



Article

Hunt for Oklahoma Fugitive - Sydney Bridgeforth


Summary:

On Sunday Michael Vance shot an Oklahoma Sheriff and flees before he is killed.  Vance's savage week of killings, police shootings, and boasting on Facebook, ended in more violence when the fugitive was killed in a shootout.

The 38 year old allegedly shot two officers and killed two relatives before dodging authorities for a week.  Vance had been on the run since October 23.  After wounding the officers, Vance appeared on Facebook Live bragging about his exploits and portending more violence to come.

Vance had been camping out in Hammon, Oklahoma.  He managed to evade authorities hot on his trail by fleeing in a car.  His demise on Sunday came in Dewey County whenever Sheriff Clay Sander pulled him over.  That is when gunfire erupted and the fugitive was killed.

Analysis;

This current event is one that took place over a number days and did not have just one author.  It was constantly being updated on CNN.com.  This article was written with no biases, but simply written to outline the timetable of this fugitives flight until his final demise.

While social media has its intended use, Michael Vance took it to another level by using Facebook Live bragging about what he had done and then making further threats.  That, to me, is almost an act of domestic terrorizing.  I am not a fan of people being shot and/or killed by law enforcement, but in this case; it was totally warranted. Vance was for sure a threat not only to society, but to himself as well.

My prayers go out to those who were killed and injured.  I am thankful for the determined actions of the Dewey County Sheriff Department for continuing their search to get such a threat to society off the streets.




https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.cnn.com/cnn/2016/10/31/us/oklahoma-fugitive-killed/index.html?client=safari

Elijah Macias- Federal authorities reportedly battled over direction of Clinton email investigation

  Summary- The FBI and Justice department were add odds with each other about the investigation into the Hillary Clinton email debacle as the federal authorities announced that they would take another look at the emails. The wall Street journal, citing people that were familiar with the matter, said some senior law enforcement officials were skeptical of the strength of the investigation. The director of the investigation, McCabe, seems to be in a bad place since last week it was discovered his wife received 465,000 in campaign funds from a long time Clinton ally.

Analysis- At this point I don't really know what else to expect from this crazy election cycle. I just want this thing to be over so we can deal with the future problems that we will inevitably face. I think this article just shows how corrupt our government has gotten, it's quite sickening. I'm sick and tired of these idiots being deceptive and nefarious, I wish we just had honest politicians that wanted to change this country for the better, not make them richer at the expense of the people. This can be synthesized with the corrupt bargain because of how both were corrupt and it was only in the politicians interest. Honesty I'm done with this election, it's not funny anymore it's just scary.

Link to article

Alyssa Sartuche - Human ashes at the opera ??

Powdery substance cancels Met Opera show
By: Susanna  Catpelouto

 Summary: On October 30th, 2016 this Sunday the Met opera show was canceled.  According to the police, a man walked up to the orchestra pit during intermission, pulled out a bag and stated sprinting something in the air. Witnesses say that he came to sprinting the ashes of his mentor during the show. for safety precautions, they pulled an evacuation just incase. The Met said they will offer refunds for the second half of the show.

Analysis: I believe this is a really sweet action to take but also a consequence for others. Imagine one of your friends going through all that trouble to spread your ashes in an orchestra pit. There definitely can be other way without going to this extreme of measures but the point came across very clear to honor the mentor. What the police did was right though evacuating everyone because you never know what the powder substance could be. thankfully for the audience it was nothing super harmful.

http://www.cnn.com/2016/10/30/us/met-opera-ashes/index.html

Slavery 2: The slavening

America's prison systems have been under fire for years. With mistreatment and dehumanizations just a few of the complaints many have with our infirmary moral infrastructure, it's not surprising that something like slavery has popped up. In many states prisoners receive little to no money from any work they do. It's a brutal cycle too as workers labor long hours. This kind of treatment goes beyond correctional, it's downright dehumanizing. Since the 13th amendment says that work without pay can be used for correctional purposes, this is a completely legal practice. This has caused many prisoners to rebel by refusing to work. A massive strike will surely bring recognizability to this situation.


For the longest while the government can be above the law as they are the law. They can find loopholes around any barrier they want to because they create those spaces specifically to abuse them. It's a broken system that needs reform. The afore mentioned prisoners are not all there for capital punishment. Some do minor things that still carry a stigma and a long sentence. You might suggest someone goes in and changes things based on what the people want but thats what a rebellion is and rebellions never change anything for the better. That's not how politics works. Each previous position of power has to please the people under him and the only reason someone new would come and take their place is because all those under them want the insurgency to happen. Politics is a complicated mess that causes lots of injustices like the second coming of slavery. If you haven't watched the newest video by CGP Grey called rules for rulers you're missing out.

http://www.cnn.com/2016/10/30/us/us-prisoner-strike/index.html

Sunday, October 30, 2016

Isabella Bruner-Supreme Court to Hear Transgender Bathroom Case

Summary:
Recently the Supreme Court is dealing with a case of transgender issues of public bathrooms. With a Virginia high school student Gavin Grimm addressing the issue. He was born a female but, has gone under hormone therapy and changed his name. He was allowed to use the boy’s restroom until 2014 with the school's board petition making him go to the unisex bathroom in the nurse's office. "I continue to suffer daily because of the school board's decision to make my bathroom use a matter of public debate. I feel the humiliation every time I need to use the restroom and every minute I try to 'hold it' in the hopes of avoiding the long walk to the nurse's office. And the humiliation can come when I least expect it." he says.  As many of these cases have a big variation of affect, as schools in North Carolina, people have to go the restroom from what’s on their birth certificate. But, the U.S. Department of Justice sued the state as it violated the civil rights act and Violence against Women’s Act. 

The Associated Press

Analysis:
This article written by Gabrielle Levy on October/28/2016 talks about this issues that transgender people have to face on a day-to-day basis. This affects us and our generation of people and how to face these issues. With more and more people being free and being comfortable in their own skin it’s come to the problem of public bathrooms. Most of the arguments are torn into two, with one side looking at their genitals and the others looking at their personality and looks. For me, I don't care, whatever makes them happy, I'm okay with it. I just don't see the big issue for it to go all the way to the Supreme Court. I guess, some people are difficult of change and that's why it takes a while to change something. This article can relate to the Civil Rights movement with the separation on blacks to whites. With different schools, water fountains, and bathrooms everyone needs to have equal rights. With the movement to stop the difference of skin color, sex, religion, and race is it a difficult problem to overcome but, we have already gotten so far, we can still do a lot more.


http://www.usnews.com/news/national-news/articles/2016-10-28/supreme-court-to-hear-transgender-bathroom-case

Katie Haidet- Russian, US military planes in near miss over Syria

Summary: A Russian fighter jet and a US military plane flew dangerously close to each other while flying over Syria earlier this month, according to the Pentagon. US Air Force Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Harridan classified this has a “near miss” type of accident. Both planes, the US military and Russian fighter jet were flying at hundreds of miles an hour with their lights off on the night. At such an inconvenient time with the tension between America and Russia over the run of Russia in the Syrian war, it would've caused even more conflicts between the two if the two planes would've hit. 


Analysis: This article was published by CNN on October 28, 2016 by Peter Bergen. If the two planes would've hit one another the tension between US and Russia would've increased. The article also states that after the “near miss” between the two, the Russian pilot was unaware of the accident. This is similar to the Malaysis Airlines plane that went missing over the summer, as well as lists of other missing planes in other countries. This shows that we need to be more aware of the tracking of planes in other places for our safety and for their safety. 

Trump Calls Black Supporter ‘Thug,’ Throws Him Out Of Rally Ciaja Beck {4th period

Summary: On yesterday rally,Trump called out a black supporter assuming that he was a "THUG" hired by the democratic party. C.J Cary the man who was escorted out, stated that he was just trying to deliver a message and that he was just a Trump supporter. 

“We have a protester,” Trump declared. The crowd booed.
“By the way, were you paid $1,500 to be a thug?” he said, seemingly addressing both the crowd and the person simultaneously. “Where's the protester? Where is he? Was he paid?”
Somewhere in the crowd, Trump's security detail escorted a man out of the rally as the audience cheered.
“You can get him out,” Trump said, making a sideways motion with his thumb. “Get him out.”  


Analysis: As you see above Trump is not going to make America GREAT again, I mean lets be honest when was it ever great? Obviously Trump is a blatant racist, and gives this man zero benefit of the doubt, yet he gives Trump the undeserved benefit--and worse yet, his vote. Sad. The crowd just wants to hit someone else. Disgusting campaign of hate. This is the kind of treatment all people of color can expect from a Trump crowd. You are delusional if you believe that a Trump presidency will make your life better. He has actively embraced white-supremacists. Do yourself a favor and open your eyes.




Isabella Poscente- Separated Twins at Birth

Isabella Poscente- Separated Twins at Birth

Summary:Nicole McDonald gave birth to conjoined twins (at the head), Jadon and Anias. Nicole first held her son Jadon alone for the first time and was ecstatic. She said it was "one of the most profound moments of my life."  This 27 hour long procedure made the parents overwhelmed with joy. Watching the video, that CNN provided, made me feel very bad for the parents and what they must have been going through during the very long procedure. 

Anlysis/Synthesis:This article was written by Wayne Drash and posted on the CNN page. This is a positive effect on the audience because knowing something this miraculous is possible, just gives us hope for our world. I hope that Jadon and Anais recover and live healthy lives. This relates to many things in the past because conjoint twins is rare but is possible.

Source: http://www.cnn.com/2016/10/23/health/mcdonald-conjoined-twin-separated-held-for-first-time/

Devyn Lemack- Driving While Distracted

     There have been several crashes in the United States and you will find that a majority of them are caused by using your electronic device while driving. Why does the little sound of a notification on your phone make you need to check it immediately? Our brains get a hit of dopamine a chemical that leads to an increase in arousal energizing the reward circuitry in our brains, the dopamine actually takes over the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain that judges if something is actually worth doing. You may think that using hands-free when your on the phone is way safer, but actually it is shown to be just as bad. It actually gives you a late reaction time if you were about to get in a crash, almost as if you are DWI (driving while intoxicated). Studies have shown that you can't focus 100% on more than one thing at once. Tibet from the Center for Internet and Technology Addiction made a product called "groove", a device that plugs into your car underneath your seat, groove notifies your phone provider to have all email, text, calls, and social media notifications turned off while driving, he hoped that this would help many people.

    This was posted on November 1st by CNN Student news, showing that this problem has really gotten worse, and ways to possible solve this problem. I believe that Tibit's "groove" idea is extremely smart and will help stop so many accidents from happening. I have heard of this topic, but I never knew their was a product to stop you from getting notifications while driving, and I hope that more people will learn about it. This can relate to history because the exact same thing used to happen a long time ago, but it has gotten way worse. I really hope that people will stop using their phones while driving, it is very dangerous for yourself, and other drivers around you.

http://www.cnn.com/2016/10/31/studentnews/sn-content-tues/

Kiana Sanderson new emails





summery: During an investigation on Anthony Wiener (a close partner with Hilary Clinton) the FBI came a cross over a 1,000 emails connected to or with Clinton. now they have reopened her FBI investigation to see if any of these emails have classified information in them. This is all happening eleven days before the election but, estimated to not be fully resolved till after the election. This could possibly put a horrible criminal in jail but then leave us with her dumb vice president to take her place. If she ends up winning the election.


synthesis: A history of  scandals have followed the Clinton family.  One of the biggest next to the email scandal in Bill Clinton sex scandal. He allegedly sexually harassed many women during his time as president. As well as having to leave office early. Why would anyone put such a criminal based family in office again? they should both be in jail.

http://www.cnn.com/2016/10/28/politics/fbi-reviewing-new-emails-in-clinton-probe-director-tells-senate-judiciary-committee/

http://www.ibtimes.com/11-scandals-have-followed-bill-hillary-clinton-decades-2439205

Olivia Moretta: Young Cancer Survivor Commits Suicide

Eleven year old Bethany Thompson was first diagnosed with cancer at the young age of three, when doctors discovered a tumor in her brain. She endured radiation treatment, and after her long battle she was finally deemed cancer free in 2008. Although she kept her life, she walked away with severe nerve damage that affected the left side of her face, causing it to droop. This was the cause of relentless bullying among her peers and on one particularly rough Wednesday, Thompson told her friend that she'd had enough and that she planned to take her life. Within minutes of her arrival home, she found one of the two guns kept in the house and shot herself.

Bullying has always been an issue. Even now in modern times, where tolerance and diversity have made huge strides, people are still so ignorant. Children as young as eleven years old have the power to potentially take a life with their words. This incident can be tied to the incident in Florida, 2013, when two girls ages 12 and 14 were arrested for bullying a girl to death.

http://www.cnn.com/2016/10/31/health/cancer-survivor-bully-trnd/index.html

Kyla Thomas (1st Period)- Go scare yourself! It's good for you

Summary: This article discusses the benefits of being scared. In the wake of Halloween, I thought that this topic would be a good one to discuss. Research shows that people are naturally drawn to horror and scary things. Research also shows that being scared is healthy. The rush of adrenaline gets the brain flooded with dopamine, which is a chemical that floods the brain when you're in love or taking illicit drugs. Some people really like to be on a natural high and constantly be on their toes. This creates desensitization to the person if they're used to being scared. Violence can also ground you to reality. Research shows that watching scary things with groups of people will make a person feel like they have accomplished something when the scary thing is over. This also can contribute to the idea that they are brave which will, in turn, make them more adventurous. Although being scared has its advantages, you should never force another person to have that same mentality. It make take people a while to feel comfortable to watch a scary movie or go through a haunted house so never force anyone to do anything that they don't want to do.

Analysis: I believe that this is a very interesting article. It shows that being scared is not such a bad thing after all. It also teaches the reader that we should be more adventurous and be willing to do things out of the normal. In relation to history, the hellish art of 15th century Dutch painter Hieronymus Bosch has been popular for a while. His horrifying art was displayed in churches and it sent terrifying message to the church people.

Source: http://www.cnn.com/2016/10/28/health/fear-can-be-healthy/index.html

Rachel Bozalis - US Inmates Strike Against Unpaid Labor

Last month,  an estimated 50,000 american inmates began taking part in a strike that continues today. The strike protests the legality of the conditions they are forced to work under, which allow them to work long, hard hours for little to no pay. The strike is participated in by civil disobedience, as workers refuse to work. Jails argue that this unpaid labor allows inmates to gain job experience, prepping them for reentry into society. Inmates also hope to improve living conditions by getting rid of the racial discrimination, as seen in California where hispanic gang members are forced to wear different colored uniforms than the rest of the inmates in oder to identify which prisoners might come into conflict. Overall, living conditions of inmates are incredibly and increasingly bad, and many are working to change this. The inmates do not expect great living conditions, as they understand their situation, however they expect to reside under livable circumstances.

The ratification of the 13th amendment at the end of the civil war allowed for unpaid or underpaid labor to continue as long as it is to serve a term or pay back. Many activists and inmates argue that this amounts to modern day slavery and is dehumanizing to prisoners. With so many differing points of view, it is hard to truly know the details of the seemingly peaceful protest, however hope remains that conditions will improve.

http://www.cnn.com/2016/10/30/us/us-prisoner-strike/index.html

Skyler Tepedino- Trump's Star is Smashed

Summary:
Recently, there was a man  dressed up as a construction worker who took an axe to Donald Trump's Hollywood Star. This happened Wednesday morning at 6:00 A.M. According to the article this man did this because he felt like he could auction the star then he can raise money for all the women that Trump sexually harassed or assaulted. The damage done to the star is astonishing, the name isn't visible anymore and the star is almost plowed out of the ground. According to the article the man who smashed Trump's star is proud of all his actions and said it was for a good cause. The star will be replaced with a brand new one. 
Analysis:
I think that the person who smashed Trump's star could have gotten his point across a different way instead of vandalizing and damaging a Hollywood star. I think that this event is similar to when the University of Cape Town removed the colonial-era statue of Cecil Rhodes. Rhodes was a politician, business man, and he divided up land in South Africa. He also was instrumental in apartheid. He tried to change voting rights for citizens. He is almost like a reflection of Trump. Rhodes scholars are recognized for academics and Trump tried to launch Trump University. The removal of the statue did not have the same purpose as the damaging of Trump's star but they were both removed. Also I think that Trump having his name of the Walk of Fame is unreasonable. I, personally, don't think that he should have his name on a star only because he is a business man and he only had one show, The Apprentice. I don't think he deserves a spot on the Walk of Fame because he is not an entertainer and doesn't work as hard as other actors, actresses, dancers, singers, and musicians in their craft and art. That is just my opinion on the star, but I guess other people have different thoughts in Hollywood. 

Hillary Clinton: More Emails Found - Abby Pryor 8th Period

Summary:

This past Friday, the presidential election was sent into chaos after more emails were found sent by Hillary Clinton to a computer owned by Anthony Weiner; the husband of one of Clinton's aides. The FBI was investigating a case that had to do with Weiner contacting a 15 year old girl in North Carolina. Now, the FBI is going to review all of the uncovered emails that were discovered and determine if there is any important information disclosed in them. Trump responded with, "Perhaps, finally, justice will be done."

Analysis:

Hillary Clinton's deleted emails have been discovered before, which caused chaos in her political career. Now, it being so close to the election, these newly found emails have jolted Hillary's political campaign to become President of the United States. Certain people who sided with Clinton are now suspicious of their choice to vote for her.

Source:

http://www.nytimes.com/2016/10/29/us/politics/fbi-hillary-clinton-email.html?_r=0

human ashes sprinkled at the MET- Camryn Stafford

summary:
Ashes of an opera-loving mentor were sprinkled into the orchestra pit of the Metropolitan Opera during intermission on Saturday in New York City. This man from out of town indicated that he was there to sprinkle ashes of his late friend and his mentor in opera, during the performance. The rest of the performance was canceled and the opera house was evacuated in an orderly action.

analysis:
The author is Susanna Capelouto from CNN, which means that the article isn't going to be biased or favoring one side in anyway. The articles isn't bashing the man in any way but is instead providing information by giving quotes from the manager Peter Gelb and other witnesses. The main point is to express the motives of other people and what they do to get a point across or to please others, even if it does go to extreme measures. This action of going to extremes to please others can be compared to the use of black face in plays and productions.


http://www.cnn.com/2016/10/30/us/met-opera-ashes/index.html

Maddie gold-Tom Hayden, famed anti-Vietnam War activist, dies

Tom Hayden, a peace activist whose radical views helped spur the 1960s anti-Vietnam War movement, has died. He died Sunday night surrounded by his family at the UCLA Medical Center in Santa Monica, California. As an activist, he became a Freedom Rider, riding interstate buses into the heart of Georgia in defiance of segregation. In the early 1960s, Hayden, who studied at the University of Michigan, spoke out against the Vietnam War when he helped write a manifesto for the Students for a Democratic Society known as the Port Huron Statement. 

Tom Hayden actions relate to the 1960's Vietnam war protests. It's incredibly sad that such an influential man has died.

https://www.google.ca/amp/s/amp.cnn.com/cnn/2016/10/24/us/tom-hayden-dies/index.html?client=safari

University of Texas's Steps to Prevent Official Halloween Costumes Leah Lara

      At the University of Texas, the Office of the Dean of students issued a costume and resource guide to prevent students from wearing offensive costumes. The guide encourages students to avoid wearing costumes that appropriate another culture or experience. It's introduction also mentions the dangers and harm that cultural appropriation can cause. Its questions include 'why are we considering this theme, is this theme or costume referring to living culture or people,and have we consulted with experts?' The pamphlet also includes a list of fun and harm free themes, such as decade costumes and cartoon characters.

  Although Halloween is filled with sweet treats and spectacular costumes, this time of year offensive and derogatory costumes always come to light. Most of these costumes do fall under the category of cultural appropriation, with people attempting to represent a culture that they do not fully understand. The worst part of it however, is the people who do not understand the offensive things they may be displaying, and how it could effect a person who is actually from that culture. Recently, even Disney released a offensive costume that depicts a Polynesian character. Greek Fraternities are also famous for scandals about their members wearing offensive costumes, such as blackface which dates all the way back to antebellum America.  I sincerely believe that one day, people will have enough sense to understand that wearing a Native American costume is wrong, or that wearing chopsticks is your hair doesn't mean you're a geisha. But it seems like that in 2016, we will still have to rely of a pamphlet to provide the moral judgement which so many people lack.  

11 year-old bullied to death -Zia Bella Blair 7th

A brain cancer survivor, only eleven-years-old, shot herself on the back porch of her home in Ohio. Bethany Thompson suffered brain cancer in 2008 and a tumor caused an uneven smile. Her parents believe that that was the major reason kids bullied her. It was revealed on the day of Bethany's death, she told one of her friends that she loved her and that she was her best friend forever but she was going to kill herself when she got home. She was also bullied the previous year but according the the Superintendent "it had been addressed.' According to him "there was no evidence of a pattern of bullying this year."
I was horrified to hear about this event. I think its so sad that a little girl could be pushed so far as to end her own life, especially after battling cancer. Schools need to be more aware of bullying and put a stop to it immediately. Kids should never reach this point of desperation.

Lauren Cargill - Kids Get Swine Flu From Pigs At State Fairs

Summary: According to the CDC, pigs are state fairs are infecting kids with a new type of swine flu never before seen in humans. This flu first emerged at state fairs in Ohio and Michigan, infecting 18 people, 16 of them children, and seven of them under the age of five. 13 of these individuals said they had touched or petted the pigs, four said they had only walked through the pig barn, and one said they had indirect contact, but didn't give specifics. Though one person had to be hospitalized, all of the individuals recovered fully, and there has been no evidence of the disease passing from person to person. When the CDC looked at samples from all 18 people, they ended up finding two H3N2 viruses, meaning that they originally came from pigs, and 16 "reassortant" viruses, meaning that they had both human and pig DNA. The fact that some of the viruses had human DNA is a bit concerning because human DNA makes the virus more likely to pass from person to person. To prevent this virus, the CDC recommends proper hand hygiene when visiting petting zoos, fairs keeping a veterinarian on hand if any animals show signs of illness, and getting medical care if your child gets sick after a fair and doesn't get better.

Analysis: I think it's kind of scary to think that some of these people got sick after merely walking though the pig barn at the fair. I think that it's very important to be careful with these things especially since the Texas State Fair has such a large animal attraction. This relates to the swine flu outbreak in 2011 because it is a very similar occurrence, just on a larger scale and a different strand of virus.

Article: http://www.cnn.com/2016/10/27/health/swine-flu-fairs/?iid=ob_homepage_deskrecommended_pool

Ava Noble: At Chicago O'Hare, American Airlines 767 Catches Fire on Runway

Summary:      
     On Friday afternoon, when the American Airlines Boeing 767 failed to take off, passengers panicked off of the emergency slides as debris was shooting up into the air. The airplane was initially going to Miami. Debris was found as far as a half mile away from the aircraft. It was released that the accident was caused by an engine that had an "uncontained" failure. Soon enough, the right side of the airplane was going up into flames as 161 passengers and workers ran for safety. 20 passengers were taken to the hospital to be treated for their small injuries, however none of the injuries were caused by the fire. After only 30 seconds, smoke poured into the cabin, and everybody was worried the plane was going to blow up. Many passengers had a difficult time breathing. Thankfully, everybody is safe and recovering from the accident.
Analysis/Synthesis:    
      This article was created by Steve Almasy, Jon Ostrower, and Rene Marsh. It was published on CNN on Saturday, October 29. The public will believe that the information presented in this article is true; CNN has a great reputation of truthful, informative articles. It scary to know that there is nothing someone did to make the plane catch on fire. Clearly it was not someone's fault, which makes airplane safety more questionable. I can synthesize this to when a Boeing 777 in September of 2015 was departing from Las Vegas International Airport, and one of the engines completely failed during takeoff. I think this article makes American Airlines' reputation worse. Nobody wants to get on an airplane that could catch on fire. However, there is no way to ensure safety. Engineers are constantly working on ways to make aircrafts more safe, so I hope they can find a solution to the problems that caused this airplane to catch on fire.

Source:

http://www.cnn.com/2016/10/28/us/ohare-aircraft-incident/

Emma Sutherland - Machete Rampage at New Orleans airport

SUMMARY: 
            63 year old, Richard White, comes into the TSA airport line in New Orleans with a surprise to the citizens going through security. He has a big brown paper bag that contains wasp spray and a machete! With no obvious warning, White begins to spray the airline passengers as they attempt to feed their baggage into the x-ray machine. He then pulls out a machete from his waistband and begins to frantically swing it throughout the air in an attempt to hit the bystanders. As the citizens scramble through this section of the airport, a sheriff's lieutenant fired bullets at White, and hit him three times. However, in this attempt to hit the assailant, one of the TSA officers was hit in the tricep by one of the bullets. She said about the event, "I didn't hear him say anything... Once I yelled for the checkpoint to be cleared, I looked over my shoulder and he was coming after me. And I ran as fast as I could and thank God the officer was as close as she was, because I wouldn't be here today." Investigators said that they found Molotov cocktails and a grill lighter in the bag as well, and smoke bombs and three gas tanks in his car. They also explained that he suffers from a mental illness. White died the next day following treatment for his three bullet wounds.

ANALYSIS:
          Although not a recent incident, this frightening ordeal came back into media spotlight due to the recent release of video footage capturing White's rampage. Before reading this article, I had not heard much about airport violence and events regarding the security of citizens in an airport. However, this does call to question how important and crucial airport security is. Many bystanders could have gotten hurt in this incident, and it is very fortunate that there were no major injuries or fatalities. Because of the increase in airport security protocols since 9/11, most people most likely perceive airports to be a relatively safe place, and this probably caught them by surprise. This can be synthesized to the Battle of San Jacinto in the Texas Revolution. 800 Texans prepared to battle 1,400 Mexicans at an area near Houston, Texas today. During a confident Mexican army's afternoon siesta, the Texans (led by General Sam Houston) attacked the Mexicans at around 3:30, surprising them out of nowhere. 630 Mexicans were killed in the event, and only 9 Texan lives were lost. This is similar due to the surprise attack issued by both the Texans and Richard White, as they caught many people by surprise in the process of them executing everyday actions with confidence that they were safe from harm.

http://www.cnn.com/2016/10/30/us/new-orleans-airport-incident-video/index.html

Seanelle Higgins: The Truth About "Patient Zero"

Summary: This article reveals the truth about Gaëtan Dugas, who came to America from the Caribbean. He was believed to be the man that brought HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, to the United States and spreading it. He was eventually dubbed "Patient Zero" by the general public that mistook an "O" for a "0". Although Dugas could not technically be blamed for spreading a virus he did not know he had, he was still condemned for "promiscuity" and bringing the virus over.  However, a series of experimental blood tests confirm that it was in fact not Dugas who spread the virus, but possibly a combination of other things. Scientists claim that the person who brought the virus over could have been of any ethnicity or origin. They also say that the spreading could have been due to blood products because a significant amount of them came from Haiti in the 1970's. Dugas' family is finally getting the truth out about Gaëtan. PRACTICE SAFE SEX KIDS ❤.

Analysis: I think that this is a very interesting topic to discuss because right now, about 1.2 million people in America hace HIV/AIDS. This is really sad because of how serious it is and how fatal it can be. I think that it's very important to educate kids on being careful about who they get into bed with and using protection .  Over the last few years, STD, STI, and drug rates have increased. We as a generation need to learn to be careful and avoid spreading these drugs and diseases . They are very detrimental to our nation and our people.


Synthesis: The 1970s HIV/AIDS spreading can be synthesized to today where it is spreading at alarming rates.

Saturday, October 29, 2016

Lauren Brady Period 4 10/29/16 Offensive Halloween Costumes

          Recently, the Greek system at Tufts University sent a letter that asked students not to wear "costumes that appropriate cultures and reproduce stereotypes". The letter went on to say that "outfits relating to tragedy, controversy, or acts of violence are also inappropriate." This request from Tufts students is an attempt to regulate costumes after complaints of offensive costumes from prior years spurred conversation over what is and isn't appropriate. The dean of student affairs has joined forces with the Greek system, saying that somebody who wears a costume that makes another student uncomfortable will face punishment (although Tufts has stated that the school does not have an official Halloween costume policy). Some offensive costumes mentioned include one that mocks the robbery of Kim Kardashian in Paris, an ebola nurse, and a clown mask (in light of the recent clown sightings). Tufts university supports the students' call for banning discriminatory, threatening, and controversial costumes.

          This story raises good questions about students' rights and offensive behavior. While it is important to not wear provocatory costumes, we also need to know where to draw the line. What exactly is deemed offensive? Besides the obviously stereotypical costumes that mock cultural, religious, ethnic, and gender groups, what else could make somebody feel threatened? College campuses provide good spaces for discussion and debate, but is the next generation becoming thin skinned? At some point, people are going to have to learn to live with a satirical costume of Kim Kardashian. The real world outside of the college campus bubble is not flowery and kind, and people who get offended so easily are not prepared to survive in it. Clearly, I am not calling for openly offensive costumes, and I think that the discourse over changing our attitude about them is good, but some of the "offensive costumes", like a goldfish, are a bit extreme. I think that it is possible to achieve a good balance between kind and appropriate costumes while maintaining the fun aspect of dressing up for Halloween, we just have to work to get to that point. 

      The conversation over Halloween costumes can be connected to the women's rights movement in the antebellum era. Amelia Bloomer protested for her rights by wearing short skirts and "bloomers". At the Women's Rights Convention at Seneca Falls, much discussion, debate, and protesting occurred, which eventually led to the Declaration of Sentiments. Today, college campuses, like Tufts, are going through a cultural revolution and reform. While they are no longer protesting for the right to vote, important topics continue to be raised. I think, like with the women's rights reformation, we will continue to see different outcomes from the college millennial movement.

Source: http://abcnews.go.com/Lifestyle/offensive-halloween-costumes-prompt-warning-tuft-university-students/story?id=43130186