At the 87th Academy Awards last Sunday night, Patricia Arquette won the Oscar for best supporting actress in the movie 'Boyhood'. She gave a powerful speech reaching out to many women and people on the topic of women's rights. She said, "To every woman who gave birth, to every tax payer and citizen of this nation we have fought for everybody else's equal rights: It's our time to have wage equality once and for all and equal rights for women in the United States of America."
We can witness still to this very day that women are still fighting for equality. We tend to think that women gained their rights and freedoms years ago when we gained the right to vote and the right to own property and the right to work along side men, but we are still constantly fighting for that equal playing field with the men. Patricia Arquette, brought attention to the subject when she got her moment to give a short speech after winning best supporting actress, and chose this moment to talk about this subject when she had the biggest audience to witness this speech.
http://www.ibtimes.com/patricia-arquette-oscars-acceptance-speech-2015-boyhood-winner-talks-womens-rights-1824474
Maddie Murphy pd 6
Saturday, February 28, 2015
Friday, February 27, 2015
Atlanta Airport Steps Up Security- by Rachel Devine (6th)
It has been confirmed that in Atlanta, the world's so called busiest airport, has decided that they will be taking their security measures to the next level. Ever since the incident in December where a Delta worker helped smuggle guns on about 20 different flights, authorities knew their employees needed more than just a simple background check. Atlanta is now making all their airport employees go through heavy-duty metal detectors/full screenings. Some people are protesting that it's unnecessary, but everyone agrees it's better to be safe than sorry. Atlanta will be joining Orlanda and Miami in conducting these new screenings daily.
Although there wasn't any serious tragedy, this article still made me think of 9/11 and how it affected our nation's airports. Following 9/11, airports everywhere stepped up their security, which was something that hadn't been a "big deal" before. It is comforting to know that the Delta worker who was smuggling guns didn't end up causing any real harm, but still disturbing in the fact that we potentially can't even trust the people working for the airports! It's just unfortunate that we now live in a world where these measures must be taken.
http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/26/us/atlanta-airport-security/index.html
Although there wasn't any serious tragedy, this article still made me think of 9/11 and how it affected our nation's airports. Following 9/11, airports everywhere stepped up their security, which was something that hadn't been a "big deal" before. It is comforting to know that the Delta worker who was smuggling guns didn't end up causing any real harm, but still disturbing in the fact that we potentially can't even trust the people working for the airports! It's just unfortunate that we now live in a world where these measures must be taken.
http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/26/us/atlanta-airport-security/index.html
Thursday, February 26, 2015
At least 16 dead in Carnival parade accident in Haiti by Jack O'Connor
At least 16 dead in Carnival parade accident in Haiti
During Haiti's national Carnival parade, an accident involving an electrical shock on
a float killed at least 16 people. A video from the incident showed a power line
striking a man standing on the float.
This is something no one could have prepared for. It's so tragic.
Authorities scramble to find teen girls before they join ISIS by Jessica Sheinfeld
Authorities scramble to find teen girls before they join ISIS
By Jessica Sheinfeld
Three London teens lied to their parents and said they were going to a wedding when instead
they got on a plane to Istanbul to join ISIS. Their parents are on the search along with the
police, but they have no clue where the teens are as of now. All of their families are upset and
distraught at the loss of their girls. Authorities are trying to stop and save the 15 and 16 year old
girls before they reach Syria and it is too late.
This is super sad to me. I'm curious what ISIS is telling all these young kids to convince them
of coming out to be with them. I hope they are found and return safely.
Scientists discover black hole 12 billion times bigger than the sun by Jessica Sheinfeld
Scientists discover black hole 12 billion times bigger than the sun
By Jessica Sheinfeld
Researchers in China have spotted a supermassive black hole, 12 billion times
the size of the sun and around 900 million years old. A black hole is a dense
region of space that has collapsed in on itself.
That sounds really fascinating, but black holes can be dangerous so it also
sounds scary. Like should we be scared of it?
Yoga guru Bikram Choudhury accused of sex assault, rape by Jessica Sheinfeld
Yoga guru Bikram Choudhury accused of sex assault, rape
By Jessica Sheinfeld
Yoga guru Bikram Choudhury is being accused of sexual assault and rape in
six separate civil lawsuits. It is said he manipulates and preys on the young
and vulnerable and takes advantage of them without their consent.
That's disgusting. A yoga guru is supposed to heal the body and mind and for
him to prey on women and girls like that is gross and he should definitely be
locked up for a while if not for the rest of his life.
CDC investigates deadly bacteria's link to doctors' offices by Jessica Sheinfeld
CDC investigates deadly bacteria's link to doctors' offices
By Jessica Sheinfeld
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is raising a red flag that a potentially deadly bacteria may be
lurking in your doctor's office. The bacteria, C. Difficile, is typically found in hospitals. But a study out
Wednesday reports a substantial number of people contracted the bug who hadn't been in a hospital, but had
recently visited the doctor or dentist.
That scares me a lot. Doctors and doctors offices are supposed to make everyone and anyone feel better, not
deathly. I want to stay away for doctors and their offices for now.
Iran blasts mock U.S. carrier in war games by Jessica Sheinfeld
Iran blasts mock U.S. carrier in war games
By Jessica Sheinfeld
Iran blasted its mock-up of a U.S. aircraft carrier during naval drills on
Wednesday, February 25, swarming the target with 100 speedboats armed with
rockets, shoulder-launched missiles and mortars as well as striking it with cruise
missiles. Nimitz-class carriers are the centerpiece of U.S. naval forces, and the
largest warships in the world.
Court rules: Adultery no longer a crime in South Korea by Jessica Sheinfeld
Court rules: Adultery no longer a crime in South Korea
By Jessica Sheinfeld
South Korea's highest court struck down a decade-old law banning adultery, a statute that critics
said is anachronistic and infringes on personal freedom, sending shares in the country's biggest
condom maker surging. The law had been enacted in 1953 to protect women in a male-dominated
society where divorce was rare and had made marital infidelity punishable by jail.
I don't understand their full reasoning for this and I wasn't sure fully what the law entailed in the
first place, but good for South Korea.
Australians set to face Indonesian firing squad despite pleas for mercy by Jessica Sheinfeld
Australians set to face Indonesian firing squad despite pleas for mercy
By Jessica Sheinfeld
No amount of pleading has moved Indonesian authorities to stop the execution of two Australians on death row in Indonesia for drug trafficking. Pleads for leniency have been made by the government in Canberra and six former prime ministers, but that's not happening, the two men will remain on death row. The two men are still waiting for their sentence to be carried out completely, but it's said that death row is likely to happen soon for them.
Victim's family kept killer's identity from police by Jessica Sheinfeld
Victim's Family Kept Killer's Identity from Police
By Jessica Sheinfeld
Road rage suspect knew victim, husband says, but the family kept his identity a secret for a week due
to the fact that he was a family friend to them.
I understand why they would feel the need to keep his identity, but this person should no longer
matter to them because of the fact that their family member is now dead because of this person.
They should've told the police as soon as they knew, but I also think it was brave that they told the
police at all, even if it was a week late.
What was motive to kill the 'American Sniper?' by Jessica Sheinfeld
What was motive to kill the 'American Sniper?'
By Jessica Sheinfeld
It is still not certain why former marine Eddie Ray Routh shot and killed also former marines Chris
Kyle and Chad Littlefield. Right now it is being said that Eddie Ray Routh has intense Post
Traumatic Stress Disorder and a personality disorder leading him to shooting and killing the two
men, but not really understanding or knowing his motives behind it. He shot Chris Kyle 4 times in
the back and once in the face and he shot Chad Littlefield 5 times in the back. The trial is still
underway to find out for sure what the reasoning for all this was, but for now this is where the trial
stands.
I wish I knew the whole story behind events leading up to moments before the shooting because I
know PTSD can be triggered in instances and can lead people to acting crazy. I'm wondering if the
sound of the gun shots brought back bad memories for Eddie and he snapped and shot at them to
stop it or if what he did was a malicious act towards Chris and Chad. Either way I think this was
awful and Eddie should probably be locked up being treated or put into jail.
Truck Driver Arrested in California Train Crash by Jessica Sheinfeld
Truck Driver Arrested in California Train Crash
By Jessica Sheinfeld
A train crashed into a truck stuck on the railroad in California on Tuesday. Over 20 people were
injured. The driver said he got stuck in the tracks and fled the scene to avoid injury. This is the
second major train accident in one month which has lead officials to wonder if they need to
regulate trains more and take more precautions in the future.
I'm not really sure how I feel about this yet because it was not mentioned whether the driver
who fled went or called for any help. I think it was smart to get out of there since he had a
chance to free himself, but if he knew a crash was bound to happen eventually and he didn't do
anything about it or didn't at least try to attempt to stop it then I do think he deserves to be
punished some how.
Former “America’s Next Top Model” Contestant Killed In Triple Homicide by Jessica Sheinfeld
Former “America’s Next Top Model” Contestant Killed In Triple Homicide
By Jessica Sheinfeld
On Tuesday night, 19-year-old Mirjana Puhar, a former contestant on America’s Next Top Model, was killed in Charlotte, North Carolina, along with two other people, Jonathan Cosme Alvarado, 23, and Jusmar Isiah Gonzaga-Garcia, 19. Police have since made an arrest in what they are calling a triple homicide. Police believe that Puhar, Alvarado, and Gonzaga-Garcia all knew Rangel, the killer, and that the killings were drug-related.
Stories like these are always crazy and disheartening to me, but it hits a little harder
when it's someone I actually watched on television. Having seen her laugh and talk to
other people and then just knowing she's now dead. It's almost as if you've met this
person a few times because you know so much about them through watching them on
a reality television show. Even if she was mixed up in the wrong things, such as
drugs, it is still tragic to hear the news.
Wednesday, February 25, 2015
The Kid Who Didn't Actually Use The Weapons (Ashton Garcia 2nd)
Over a year ago, a 14 year old boy brought weapons to school. Apparently, the boy only brought the weapons to impress a girl. However, he had to go through facilities and make sure that he wouldn't do this act again (of course). This was thankfully taken very seriously. When he was brought back to a school feeling (a school of very very few boys), the other student's parents wanted their boys to treat the boy who previously brought the weapons to school badly. The parents were not happy that a child who had a past of bringing weapons to school was attending this school. Eventually he left, and things similar happened multiple times when parents and students found out what he had done in the past.
The reason for his actions seemed to be caused by ADHD, and not having the medication for it at the time. It is unsure whether he really intended to do damage, but either way, he was rightfully treated for it. Unfortunately, it has been hard for him to get proper treatment and proper education. People believe that he should not be able to be surrounded by other people, and that he should be treated differently, and should not have the education he needs.
Kids, especially high schoolers, have done this, and have even gone farther. Columbine was one of the most famous school shootings. This boy is also being treated poorly because people see him as a crazy or not sane human being, which Dorothy Dix would not appreciate. Yes, he should receive proper punishment and be put on whatever it is he needs. But he still needs an education and not be treated badly. Of course people always want to be cautious, but education is important too.
The reason for his actions seemed to be caused by ADHD, and not having the medication for it at the time. It is unsure whether he really intended to do damage, but either way, he was rightfully treated for it. Unfortunately, it has been hard for him to get proper treatment and proper education. People believe that he should not be able to be surrounded by other people, and that he should be treated differently, and should not have the education he needs.
Kids, especially high schoolers, have done this, and have even gone farther. Columbine was one of the most famous school shootings. This boy is also being treated poorly because people see him as a crazy or not sane human being, which Dorothy Dix would not appreciate. Yes, he should receive proper punishment and be put on whatever it is he needs. But he still needs an education and not be treated badly. Of course people always want to be cautious, but education is important too.
Tuesday, February 24, 2015
Train Crash -Myles Bennett
A train crashed into a truck stuck on the railroad on Tuesday. The driver said he got stuck in the tracks and fled the scene to avoid injury. This is the second major train accident in one month and it is leading officials to wonder if they need to regulate trains more and take more precautions in the future.
Click here to read more.
Analysis: This relates to the rapid expansion of the country due to the railroads. The railroad and other industries grew rapidly. Because of the railroads, trade travel and the country operated more efficiently and rapidly. People could get from coast to coast faster than they could 100 years ago. The country began to seem smaller because everything took less time to get to and it all became more efficient.
Social Security Scam - Addison Norman
Recently in Paulsboro a man has been identified for collecting fraudulent money from Social Security. Since 1984 Nicholas Serevino Jr. has been receiving checks that amount to around $243,000. Serevino had a father with a fake identity. His father worked two jobs one under a fake identity so when his father died Serevino was still able to collect his father's social security benefits. The scam was able to continue for so long because there had been no death record of Serevino's father's fake identity.
During FDR's administration Roosevelt he created the Social Security Administration to help those who were unable to work. The system was in effort to help the depression stricken nation out of poverty. It is disappointing to see a system created to help people being abused.
Source: http://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2015/02/24/paulsboro-man-accused-of-stealing-243k-in-decades-long-social-security-scam/
During FDR's administration Roosevelt he created the Social Security Administration to help those who were unable to work. The system was in effort to help the depression stricken nation out of poverty. It is disappointing to see a system created to help people being abused.
Source: http://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2015/02/24/paulsboro-man-accused-of-stealing-243k-in-decades-long-social-security-scam/
President Obama Uses the power of Veto- Lossie Hudspeth
President Obama vetoes the Keystone Pipeline motivate America to pursue a higher quality energy source. His response to the bill may have upset a lot of republicans but his thought process was much like Teddy Roosevelt's response to saving the environment. In America so much is happening that is causing destruction to our nation's land. Was Obama's decision in America's good favor or was it to ensure America's future generations a home to appreciate?
Click here for the article.
Alaska Legalizes Pot -Hadassah Lai
Following Colorado legalizing marijuana, voters passed the Alaska Marijuana Legalization ballot in November. This means that people over aged 21 or older can now legally use marijuana. However, there are limits to this law. People can't have more than one ounce of marijuana on them, and they cannot grow more than four ounces at home. Also, consuming marijuana in public and driving is illegal. So although this law gives marijuana smokers some leeway, no one can legally make a living selling the drug.
So now, pot smokers can add Alaska to their bucket list, along with California and Colorado. I think that this is very interesting and I relate it back to how the federal government can make such a big decision for its state. This is completely separate from the national government. I think that there will be more state in years to come to legalize marijuana.
Source: http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/24/us/alaska-marijuana/index.html
So now, pot smokers can add Alaska to their bucket list, along with California and Colorado. I think that this is very interesting and I relate it back to how the federal government can make such a big decision for its state. This is completely separate from the national government. I think that there will be more state in years to come to legalize marijuana.
Source: http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/24/us/alaska-marijuana/index.html
Ethnically Diverse Emojis!- Iris Hughey p.5
On Monday, The Next Web obtained screenshots of the still-developing iOS 8.3 and OS 10 X 10.10.3 operating systems that show that in the upcoming software, all the emoji faces and hands will come in six different skin tones. According to the screenshots of the software updates, you'll be able to press down on any emoji face/hand, and a menu will pop, allowing you to choose their skin tone. As well as ethnically diverse emojis, the software upsdate also included the possibility of a more diverse Siri, who will be able to speak a number of new languages such as Dutch, Portugese, and Russian.
There have been many rightfully made complaints about the lack of diversity in the iPhone emojis, and I'm so glad that Apple has finally decided to make some changes about it for the better. We live in a country where white skin is the "default" or "norm", and that needs to change. I hope that this improvement in the emojis is approved and is avaiable to everyone's iPhone in the next software update!
Link: https://www.yahoo.com/tech/apple-just-showed-off-its-new-diverse-emoji-for-111891028074.html
There have been many rightfully made complaints about the lack of diversity in the iPhone emojis, and I'm so glad that Apple has finally decided to make some changes about it for the better. We live in a country where white skin is the "default" or "norm", and that needs to change. I hope that this improvement in the emojis is approved and is avaiable to everyone's iPhone in the next software update!
Link: https://www.yahoo.com/tech/apple-just-showed-off-its-new-diverse-emoji-for-111891028074.html
Frozen Niagara Falls Draws Tourists - Corsica Steding
Ice started to spread across the Great Lakes, doubling in just under a week. Now, more than 85% is covered in ice. For the first time in quite a while, Niagara Falls appears to be mostly frozen. Many people have flocked to see it. CNN affiliate WKBW reported that Niagara Falls' business has been going steady despite the popular thought that it would go down due to being frozen.
Michael Pearson wrote this article for CNN on February 20th. Before reading this article, I had never heard of Niagara Falls freezing before. The article didn't mention the last time this event occurred, but it did imply that it hasn't happened in a very long time. This article was written to inform people of the interesting state of Niagara Falls. It's incredible that it's so cold that Niagara Falls was able to almost completely freeze.
http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/19/travel/feat-great-lakes-niagara-falls-frozen/index.html
Michael Pearson wrote this article for CNN on February 20th. Before reading this article, I had never heard of Niagara Falls freezing before. The article didn't mention the last time this event occurred, but it did imply that it hasn't happened in a very long time. This article was written to inform people of the interesting state of Niagara Falls. It's incredible that it's so cold that Niagara Falls was able to almost completely freeze.
http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/19/travel/feat-great-lakes-niagara-falls-frozen/index.html
Alaska becomes latest state to legalize marijuana use - Jack VanGorden 4th per.
As of Tuesday February 24, Alaska has become the third state to officially allow marijuana use. This new legislation states that all persons 21 years and older can use the drug and it was passed after, following Colorado, voters passed the Alaska Marijuana ballot measure in November. Even though this is a huge step for the state, there are still several limitations. They include: no possession of more than one ounce, no harvesting of more than four ounces, no consuming in public, and no driving while under the influence. Currently, the biggest problem officials are having is that federal law classifies marijuana as a Schedule 1 narcotic making it a federal crime. Eric Holder, U.S. Attorney General, tells CNN that he is "cautiously optimistic" about the legalization and that they will continue to be strict on distribution to minors to ensure safety. When it comes to the prohibition of cannabis, twenty-three states are still set in their ways. The rest, however, have either legalized the drug or have made it less of a crime to be caught in possession of it.
This article was written by Greg Botelho of CNN News on Tue February 24, 2015 at 8:59 AM ET. This news didn't come as a shock to me. Ever since Colorado took the initiative to legalize the drug, more states have begun to follow suit. I wouldn't be surprised if by the end of the year, a majority of our states do the same. While I have no issue with pot being legalized, I do think that they will have to work out some kinks that will come from it being so easily accessible.
http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/24/us/alaska-marijuana/index.html
This article was written by Greg Botelho of CNN News on Tue February 24, 2015 at 8:59 AM ET. This news didn't come as a shock to me. Ever since Colorado took the initiative to legalize the drug, more states have begun to follow suit. I wouldn't be surprised if by the end of the year, a majority of our states do the same. While I have no issue with pot being legalized, I do think that they will have to work out some kinks that will come from it being so easily accessible.
http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/24/us/alaska-marijuana/index.html
Missing car suddenly found in lake By- Nina Bharadwaj, 2nd period
In Florida, authorities had their worst suspicions confirmed when a missing red Chevrolet Aveo was discovered at the bottom of a lake. Not only was this car found, but a women who had been missing since February 12, Apryl Foster (33), was also discovered in the vehicle. Although the women in the car was wearing the same outfit as Foster, it has not yet been guaranteed that this body is her. This car was located about a half-mile from where Foster lived; moreover, a couple of boaters on the lake reported "striking a submerged object near the lake's boat ramp." Their shocking reports caused authorities to dig deeper into what occurred the night of Foster's disappearance. Footage was viewed from this night, and it revealed that Foster's car had been driven into the lake. This is abnormal because the gate that leads to the boat ramp is typically locked. Foster's co-workers realized that something was strange when she didn't come to work the next day. Apryl's parents have expressed their gratitude towards the Tampa community for all of their support.
This shocking situation causes me to think about how communities need to start focusing on precautions to ensure that something like this doesn't happen again. If residents had noticed that the gate was broken prior to this incident, then one of them should have had the decency to repair it or have someone else fix it. It is illogical that an individual would see a broken gate and just not think to try and fix it. It is awful that the police were unable to confirm whether the body was Foster's due to an unresolved inspection by the area's Medical Examiner. It seems highly probable that the body is Foster's because the individual was wearing Foster's clothing; however, this doesn't act as foolproof evidence. Hopefully, this mysterious body will be identified soon.
Source: http://www.foxnews.com/us/2015/02/23/car-belonging-to-missing-florida-woman-found-in-lake-with-body-inside/?intcmp=trending
This shocking situation causes me to think about how communities need to start focusing on precautions to ensure that something like this doesn't happen again. If residents had noticed that the gate was broken prior to this incident, then one of them should have had the decency to repair it or have someone else fix it. It is illogical that an individual would see a broken gate and just not think to try and fix it. It is awful that the police were unable to confirm whether the body was Foster's due to an unresolved inspection by the area's Medical Examiner. It seems highly probable that the body is Foster's because the individual was wearing Foster's clothing; however, this doesn't act as foolproof evidence. Hopefully, this mysterious body will be identified soon.
Source: http://www.foxnews.com/us/2015/02/23/car-belonging-to-missing-florida-woman-found-in-lake-with-body-inside/?intcmp=trending
The New Question: Grexit or Rebound? - Sophia Davison
Since Greece's conversion to the Euro in 2000/2001, causing a catastrophic difference in their standing with other European countries, the financial difficulties and near collapse of the economy have created worry, poverty, and serious instability within the country along with causing new concern throughout the rest of Europe. As Yahoo! News and many other news informers say, the question of whether new loans dispersed to Greece will end up fixing the problem or not remains questionable. Supposedly a plan offered by European financial leaders throughout various countries suggests major debt-reducing actions, as well as rescue loans financed by leaders of different nations. "Greece's international creditors are holding up payment of the next
batch of those loans until a review of the reforms is completed in the
coming days. Without the money, Greece faces bankruptcy in mid-October,
potentially sending shock waves through the financial sector in Europe
and abroad," says Yahoo!. Although leaders of the Greek government and financial advisers say they are confident in these plans and that great effort has already been taken in cutting down spending, the reality of the matter is that Greece (through a mixture of some corrupt government actions with hidden motives and secret loan history programs, some of which were provided and backed by American banking corporations, as well as changing to the Euro and the wealthy manipulating what money was being spent and not being returned to loaners) has essentially two productive options for maintaining and stabilizing the structure of state. As certain economic analysts say: Greece can exit the Euro; waiting out the hardships in order to gain stabilization by allowing the lower class to take the hit through an insane hyperinflation and large amount of people homeless, jobless, and businesses out of commission, also allowing the 'big-whigs' to come in and control even more of the money and basically create some sort of social breakdown. Or Greece can remain with the Euro, which would set other national banks with Greek bonds to take a hit similar to a contagion effect; yet this also poses problems because the constant cutting down on government funding (which provides for rebuilding of roads, schools, housing, construction, and essentially allows for the work force to exist) in an attempt to repay debts on the Euro would collapse any kind of societal structure, as well. Ultimately, some say it would be better for Greece to exit the Euro and return to the Drachma, but this stimulates a complete start-over for the country, and there would most likely produce more poverty than there exists now.
The effects on Greece that I hear of through news and media, as well as the condition and state that I've seen myself lead me to think of the Great Depression's effects on America. Although the situation does not have to do with a stock market crash, the level of worry and work that lower class inhabitants live with in Greece is astounding and heartbreaking. Some of my friends in Greece would relay to me the hardship that living is there at times. Due to some of these already-implemented cut-backs by the government, the taxes in some locations are so high that people can barely live off of what they make, and most have grown up working for family-run businesses that make just enough to live off of, even with growing their own food. So this leaves everyone with barely enough money to even run the businesses themselves, leaving no finances for taking care of rent, mortgage, other food items, or a family. Although not all of Greece is hit as hard as other parts, and not everyone is in such dire conditions of survival, the residual effect of the cutbacks will end up affecting every person, and any major decisions like the ones being discussed between European leaders have a huge impact on the future of all Greek inhabitants. The state that the government, finances, and quality of life for everyone there are in right now leaves me grateful for a more stable financial system currently within the U.S., yet mostly with a sense of sadness and hope for my friends in Greece and all of the residents throughout the country that things will get better.
http://news.yahoo.com/greece-loans-time-avoid-default-
And for more information on why Greece has debt, go to:
https://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=A86.J3WK_OtUii4Ar3gnnIlQ;_yxMQR
The effects on Greece that I hear of through news and media, as well as the condition and state that I've seen myself lead me to think of the Great Depression's effects on America. Although the situation does not have to do with a stock market crash, the level of worry and work that lower class inhabitants live with in Greece is astounding and heartbreaking. Some of my friends in Greece would relay to me the hardship that living is there at times. Due to some of these already-implemented cut-backs by the government, the taxes in some locations are so high that people can barely live off of what they make, and most have grown up working for family-run businesses that make just enough to live off of, even with growing their own food. So this leaves everyone with barely enough money to even run the businesses themselves, leaving no finances for taking care of rent, mortgage, other food items, or a family. Although not all of Greece is hit as hard as other parts, and not everyone is in such dire conditions of survival, the residual effect of the cutbacks will end up affecting every person, and any major decisions like the ones being discussed between European leaders have a huge impact on the future of all Greek inhabitants. The state that the government, finances, and quality of life for everyone there are in right now leaves me grateful for a more stable financial system currently within the U.S., yet mostly with a sense of sadness and hope for my friends in Greece and all of the residents throughout the country that things will get better.
http://news.yahoo.com/greece-loans-time-avoid-default-
And for more information on why Greece has debt, go to:
https://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=A86.J3WK_OtUii4Ar3gnnIlQ;_yxMQR
Plague Hits Africa/ Madeline Boreham 4th period
More than 1,000 plague cases have been recorded in Africa each year. Now it is treatable, but it can cause death. The number one source of the plague is from farm rodents. They come to eat the harvest and the fleas that have infected them infect the humans on the farm. The rodents carrying the plague are also eating 15-30% of the harvest. The villagers are leaving the harvested grains open right outside their homes, luring the field rats right into the huts. The solution is air tight bags to keep from inviting the rodents to the homes. The three layer bag is designed to suffocate any insects in the harvest and lock in the scent to keep from attracting rodents. The issue is now having enough bags to make an impact.
As a nation with so much to spare, it is imperative that we help the developing countries. These communities are facing life threatening problems that can be avoided. All they need are the right materials, materials that we can help provide. These bags can help more Africans receive food. I hope that we can take the initiative to help and make a huge impact on the farming industry in Africa.
The article was written by Poncie Rutsch for NPR to read the full article click the link below:
http://www.npr.org/blogs/goatsandsoda/2015/02/23/387772236/good-news-more-crops-bad-news-more-plague
"Superbug" Cases growing; Margaret Canady 2nd Period
The superbug carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae, also known as CRE, has been found in Los Angeles and North Carolina. Three people with CRE have died so far: 2 in Los Angeles, and 1 in North Carolina.
In North Carolina, 18 people have contracted CRE this year; in Los Angeles, 7 patients contracted CRE after routine endoscopic procedures. Hospital officials said the outbreaks occurred because two medical scopes carried and spread the CRE, even after they were disinfected. Up to 173 other people could be in danger of contracting CRE because of their endoscopic procedures; the medical center will be screening for the bacteria in these patients.
CRE is a family of bacteria found mainly in hospitals and health care facilities. It is so deadly because it has evolved to become resistant to most antibiotics, making treatment almost impossible.
How terrifying to realize that nature and evolution prevails even as human medicine and science continues to expand and grow. It shows that as much as we learn and develop as humans, we can't escape the evolutionary forces that were here before us. Scientifically speaking, perhaps we overmedicate when we have a small colds or the flu, because the more we medicate, the quicker the bacteria/virus evolves to allude the antibiotics/vaccines.
Source: http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/22/health/superbug-north-carolina/index.html
In North Carolina, 18 people have contracted CRE this year; in Los Angeles, 7 patients contracted CRE after routine endoscopic procedures. Hospital officials said the outbreaks occurred because two medical scopes carried and spread the CRE, even after they were disinfected. Up to 173 other people could be in danger of contracting CRE because of their endoscopic procedures; the medical center will be screening for the bacteria in these patients.
CRE is a family of bacteria found mainly in hospitals and health care facilities. It is so deadly because it has evolved to become resistant to most antibiotics, making treatment almost impossible.
How terrifying to realize that nature and evolution prevails even as human medicine and science continues to expand and grow. It shows that as much as we learn and develop as humans, we can't escape the evolutionary forces that were here before us. Scientifically speaking, perhaps we overmedicate when we have a small colds or the flu, because the more we medicate, the quicker the bacteria/virus evolves to allude the antibiotics/vaccines.
Source: http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/22/health/superbug-north-carolina/index.html
Monday, February 23, 2015
Teens Run Away from Families for ISIS- Kennedi Mayes
Three London teens lied to their parents about going to a wedding. Instead if attending, they got on a plane to Istanbul to join ISIS. Their parents have caller out to the to return home; however, the whereabouts of the teens are unknown as of now. All of their families are upset and distraught at the loss of their girls. Authorities are trying to stop amd save the 15 and 16 year old girls before they reach Syria and it is too late.
This is an extremely sad event. I wonder what exactly ISIS is telling all of these people to make them do drastic things such as this. It is absolutely crazy for these young teens to go running out like this and I hope they are caught and returned home in time. Also, I hope other situations like this can be prevented.
http://www.cnn.com//2015/02/23/europe/uk-syria-missing-girls/index.html
Frozen Falls- Mackenzie McGregor 6th period
Recently, the intense cold in the north has done more than allow children numerous snow days. The frigid temperatures have led to the freeze of the Great Lakes. Now, the lakes are not completely frozen but iced over enough to draw the attention of tourists. The already astonishing Niagara Falls has garnered more attention for the beauty of its chilly surface. The leading artic lake is Lake Erie with 98% of the lake being frozen. Niagara Falls is not at that point, but the falls still have time to reach this level of iciness. The article even pokes fun at the Disney movie, "Frozen", by mentioning how "pleased" the ice queen and her followers would be. This blast of chilly temperatures has expanded to new levels as even the south is experiencing dangerously slippery roads. Hopefully the spring swiftly comes because the cold has bothered everyone, regardless of whether or not Elsa enjoys it.
http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/19/travel/feat-great-lakes-niagara-falls-frozen/index.html
http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/19/travel/feat-great-lakes-niagara-falls-frozen/index.html
Winter Weather Scare by Madeline Ibarra Period 2
Recent winter weather reports have caused difficulties for many across the nation. The Northeastern part of the country has had the worst of it, but the bad conditions stretch as far south as Texas. As many as 23 people have been killed in the past couple of days due to the icy conditions. In Nashville, Tennessee, citizens have not been able to get to needed supplies or medical attention that they require. 18 of the 23 recorded deaths in the past couple of days have been from Tennessee. Down power lines because of ice have caused house fires to break out, frozen roads prevent people from transporting supplies, and below zero temperatures put those outside for extended periods of time in danger of hypothermia. Conditions show no sign of letting up until later this week.
It seems that there is not a place in the country right now that you can escape the winter weather from. Here in Texas, it is like we are seeing the winter conditions that we expected over a month ago. The constant fluctuation in weather type and temperature is causing many illnesses to pop up and affect many. As true southern residents, we are more likely to be negatively impacted by the ice and the conditions that are caused from it.
Source: http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/20/us/winter-weather-deaths/index.html
It seems that there is not a place in the country right now that you can escape the winter weather from. Here in Texas, it is like we are seeing the winter conditions that we expected over a month ago. The constant fluctuation in weather type and temperature is causing many illnesses to pop up and affect many. As true southern residents, we are more likely to be negatively impacted by the ice and the conditions that are caused from it.
Source: http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/20/us/winter-weather-deaths/index.html
North Korea Bands Foreign Runners By: Zaria Chambers
North Korea bands runners from foreign countries to participate in the Mangyongdae Prize Marathon help in the capital. Many people in Korea are afraid of Ebola and fear that people from other countries could come and affect people in their country. More than 400 applications were cancelled following the band.
I think this is a good idea to put a band on foreigners just so that people can be safe from the deadly virus. This can relate to history during the Great Migration many people had diseases causing them to spread to other people killing them.
Source: http://edition.cnn.com/2015/02/23/asia/north-korea-marathon-ban/index.html
What was motive to kill the 'American Sniper'? : Vivie Behrens (Period 6, Week 1)
As Chris Kyle's high profile trial continues, (now with an attentive national audience because of the recent release of the film, "American Sniper"), the motives of alleged murderer, Eddie Ray Routh, have begun to be questioned. On the day of his murder, Chris Kyle drove Routh and a friend, Chad Littlefield, to a nearby shooting range in an attempt to help Routh cope with his severe post-traumatic stress disorder and reacclimatize to life off of the front lines. As the men began to shoot on the range, Routh says that he interpreted the act as a threat which invoked his murderous rampage. Additionally, Routh claims he was under the influence of marijuana which caused a "substance-induced psychotic disorder"; however, Dr. Mitchell Dunn, a medical professional on the case, claimed that this was not the case.
This case in particular demonstrates how one's involvement in war affects one's mental state and further, one's actions. Similar episodes were displayed after both World War I and World War II and many men and women who were present on the front lines never were never able to recover from the horrific images they saw during wartime.
http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/23/us/eddie-ray-routh-american-sniper-motive/index.html
This case in particular demonstrates how one's involvement in war affects one's mental state and further, one's actions. Similar episodes were displayed after both World War I and World War II and many men and women who were present on the front lines never were never able to recover from the horrific images they saw during wartime.
http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/23/us/eddie-ray-routh-american-sniper-motive/index.html
State of the Union Address - Elisa Weich - period 5
In his State of the Union Address tonight, President Obama plans to stress his efforts to improve our economy by shifting it from one that benefited the high-income population more than it attempted to pull the lower-income families out of their financial issues. The President will linger on positive topics, such as his dream to make community college free to all those that appreciate the opportunity, his imposition of taxes and fees on high-income earners and large institutions, and his plan to enhance tax credits for education and child care. This all distracts from his authorization of fighting the entirety of the Islamic State and his blatant attack on the Republican Party. With just two years left in his final presidential term, President Obama has made clear his plan to leave a lasting positive economic legacy to influence voters to support the Democratic Party and to staunch conservative efforts, such as the development of natural gas lines. Though he speaks of future collaboration with the Republican Party, actions speak louder than words.
President George Washington warned the country not to create political parties in his farewell address and his prediction of unrest has never failed to be relevant, especially in Congress. For all of his presidency, Obama has been fighting a Republican Congress to move forward in plans to bring soldiers home from Iraq, close Guantanamo Bay Prison, and countless other wishes. At least he is succeeding in his righteous task of bumping down high-income earners and large institutions that vaguely resemble the monopolies of the Gilded Age.
Full Article Here
President George Washington warned the country not to create political parties in his farewell address and his prediction of unrest has never failed to be relevant, especially in Congress. For all of his presidency, Obama has been fighting a Republican Congress to move forward in plans to bring soldiers home from Iraq, close Guantanamo Bay Prison, and countless other wishes. At least he is succeeding in his righteous task of bumping down high-income earners and large institutions that vaguely resemble the monopolies of the Gilded Age.
Full Article Here
New Virus discovered by Megan Darlington
A center for disease control has found a new virus. When a man came in with fatigue, fever, and tiredness, the doctors ran multiple tests but couldn't figure out what it was. They have now discovered a new virus. This virus caused the man to die, so it is potentially very threatening.
This is nerve racking, knowing that a new deadly disease is out there. However, we shouldn't panic like we did with ebola, because that didn't solve any issues by freaking out. Diseases in the past have ruined populations such as the black plague, but with modern technology, this virus should not be a major threat to our society.
http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/20/health/new-virus-discovered/index.html
This is nerve racking, knowing that a new deadly disease is out there. However, we shouldn't panic like we did with ebola, because that didn't solve any issues by freaking out. Diseases in the past have ruined populations such as the black plague, but with modern technology, this virus should not be a major threat to our society.
http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/20/health/new-virus-discovered/index.html
Woah Beyoncé's Human! -Hannah Clifford 5th Period
http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/18/entertainment/feat-beyonce-makeup-photos/?iid=ob_homepage_featured_pool&iref=obnetwork
Recently, some pictures were leaked of Beyoncé's face with natural flaws. When her fans saw the images, they became outraged and began to post furious comments and whatnot. The idea of Beyoncé being shown as anything below perfect was too much for them to bare. Turns out that the photos were from a Loreal campaign that she had been a spokeswoman for, but nevertheless, the photos were taken down. Unfortunately, a few people save the pictures before they could be deleted.
This article is by Melonyce McAfee, written for CNN. This what the unattainable standards set by the media have brought upon our society. We as a country put celebrities on such a high shelf that we often forget these people are human just as we are. This kind of culture was first seen in the late twenties and early thirties when movie celebrities in talking films started getting noticed by the public. Posters were put up, the media got involved, and now celebrities are almost untouchable.
Recently, some pictures were leaked of Beyoncé's face with natural flaws. When her fans saw the images, they became outraged and began to post furious comments and whatnot. The idea of Beyoncé being shown as anything below perfect was too much for them to bare. Turns out that the photos were from a Loreal campaign that she had been a spokeswoman for, but nevertheless, the photos were taken down. Unfortunately, a few people save the pictures before they could be deleted.
This article is by Melonyce McAfee, written for CNN. This what the unattainable standards set by the media have brought upon our society. We as a country put celebrities on such a high shelf that we often forget these people are human just as we are. This kind of culture was first seen in the late twenties and early thirties when movie celebrities in talking films started getting noticed by the public. Posters were put up, the media got involved, and now celebrities are almost untouchable.
Superbugs Growing fast- Ausia Jones
There’s
a superbug that killed 2 people in los Angeles not too long ago. Eighteen
people have contracted CRE so far this year at a hospital in Charlotte, North
Carolina. 15 had CRE upon admission to the hospital in Charlotte; three
acquired it in the hospital, and one died. Seven patients contracted CRE after
routine endoscopic procedures. Hospital officials there have said the outbreak
was caused by two medical scopes that still carried the deadly bacteria even
though disinfection guidelines were followed. Some CRE bacteria can resist most
antibiotics. The is going to effect the U.S. socially. Since these bacterias do not have an antibiotic it could continue to spread leading to more deaths which is very scary.
http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/22/health/superbug-north-carolina/index.html
Like shoppers on Black Friday, Wall Street titans have a keen smell for deep discounts. At the moment, they're sniffing in oil fields.
Many parts of the U.S. stock market look expensive these days, but prices have fallen dramatically in the energy sector from over $100 a barrel in the summer to under $50 now.
Private equity firms are raising vast sums of money to buy oil assets on the cheap.
Blackstone Group (BX) alone launched a $4.5 billion energy fund on Monday. That gives the private equity giant a formidable war chest to deploy on distressed assets like beaten-down oil companies and drilling projects thrown in disarray by the oil meltdown.
Given its history in the industry, Blackstone said it's well positioned to "take full advantage of the significant recent cyclical downturn in oil and gas prices."
Private equity pounces: They aren't alone. Warburg Pincus, the New York firm where former Treasury secretary Tim Geithner works, launched a $4 billion energy fund in October.
These sophisticated investors realize traditional sources of capital like banks and the junk bond market are increasingly shutting oil companies out.
"Private equity companies are uniquely positioned to capitalize on this. Not only do they have the deep pockets, but they can also take a long-term approach," said Tamar Essner, an energy analyst at Nasdaq Advisory Services.
Certain projects in the U.S. shale and Canadian oil sands no longer make economic sense with oil below $50 a barrel. Sophisticated investors are sensing desperation.
http://money.cnn.com/2015/02/23/investing/oil-prices-private-equity-buying-energy/
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