Your Thoughts and Feedback Are Appreciated!

Another quarter has almost passed.  When we started out together, it still felt like summer.  Now there is no doubt - winter is here! It’s been a pleasure getting to know all of you this quarter and I hope that you stay in touch, and continue to post on the blog whenever you want.

With that being said, my final question to you is, “What did you like or dislike about the class?  What could I do to make the class better?”  Answers are due no later than Wednesday, December 11th, 2013.  After that, the blog will be down until class resumes next quarter.

I hope all of your have a peaceful and blessed holiday season full of good food, good friends and family and good rest!

Giving Thanks!

It's been a weird quarter.  From having a sub one week (thank you, Tim!) to having class on Halloween, and now missing another week due to Thanksgiving, I feel like it has been a crazy quarter.  Don't gt me wrong - I enjoy missing class every now and then as much as you do, but as an instructor, it always makes it hard to catch up.

Now, I have made it clear in class that Thanksgiving is not my favorite holiday. I don't like the way schools fictionalize a story that sounds good, while ignoring the sad facts about how we really treated Native Americans in this country. That being said, I have learned to treat Thanksgiving as a reminder of all the things I am thankful for.

This year, as always, I am thankful for my faith, my family and my friends. I was blessed this year to travel on my first mission trip and it brought me a lot further along in my walk with God.  I'm healthy and generally happy, and I am surrounded by people who love me. I have two jobs that I really enjoy, and two great classes this quarter.  Yes - when all is said and done, I have it pretty good.  I hope I never lose sight of that, and always continue to be thankful for what I have.

So, in honor of the holiday my question to you this week will be an easy one. "What are you thankful for this holiday season?" Answers are due no later than Thursday, November 28th, 2013. Please note that there WILL be a new post while we are on break - so make sure to check the blog after the holiday, but before you return to class.  I hope all of you have a wonderful holiday full of good food, good friends and good conversation! Enjoy your break!

Imported From Detroit

Last week, I traveled to Detroit for work.  It may sound weird to some, but I love visiting Detroit. Yes, I know, Detroit isn’t usually on people’s list of top vacation spots, but I love it all the same. I love driving across the bridges, eating in Greektown, visiting the Museum of Modern Art and hanging out at Belle Island. Whether you call it the “Motor City,” “Motown,” or just the “D,” there’s no doubt that Detroit is a classic American city full of culture, diversity and fun.

Which makes it all the more sad to realize that no city in the country has been harder hit by the recession than Detroit. Home to the top three American automakers, Ford, Chrysler and General Motors, Detroit was once seen as a thriving metropolis where people could go to find good jobs. Today, Detroit’s official unemployment rate is slightly below 30% and some figures quote it actually closer to 50%. To put that in perspective; the national unemployment rate is 8.3%. American car companies, that once dominated the auto industry, now are often seen as having inferior quality and reliability compared to their Japanese counterparts.

Some say American car companies are struggling because of their focus on SUV’s. When gas prices started to rise, Americans began looking for smaller, compact cars, which are often foreign. Others say American companies missed the boat when it came to developing green cars with better emissions. We can no longer sell most American cars abroad, because we don’t meet the rest of the world’s fuel efficiency standards. Finally, some say American car companies just mis-managed their funds, giving corporate executives large bonuses, while ignoring their plants, technology and workers.

So my question to you this week is, “What do you think of American cars? Are they inferior to foreign ones? What do you think can be done to strengthen the American auto industry?” You must answer all questions to earn full credit. Answers are due no later than Wednesday, November 20th, 2013.  

P.S.  Monday was Veteran's Day!  To all those who have served our country - thank you!!  You are true American heroes!

Trick-Or-Treat-Or-Not

It's Halloween!!  I love Halloween. It’s definitely one of my top three favorite holidays along with New Year’s Eve and the 4^th of July. There is nothing better as a kid, than running around in costume in the dark getting tons of candy. As an adult, I love getting dressed up and waiting to scare the children that come to my house.

Which is why it really disturbs me that some public schools aren’t even allowed to celebrate Halloween anymore. According the Seattle Public School district, “costumes could offend or upset students who come from other cultures”. The pagan origins of modern Halloween can be found in the Celtic celebration of Samhain, or "End of Summer." The Celts believed that on this agricultural harvest festival the dead revisit the land of the living and communal fires were needed to ward off evil. Many feel that celebrating Halloween is somehow promoting paganism, witchcraft and the occult.

I’m not sure how dressing up as a comic book hero and knocking on doors for candy is related to paganism, but it did get me thinking. In a few weeks, we will be discussing our First Amendment rights, and the separation of church and state. Halloween isn’t the only holiday that schools have banned in the interest of not offending anyone. So my question to you this week is, “What do you think of school’s celebrating holidays? Should they celebrate all holidays, some holidays or none at all?” For an added twist, “What are your Halloween plans?” I’d love to hear what you’re dressing up as! Answers are due no later than Tuesday, November 14th, 2013. Please note that you have an extended deadline because I will not be here next week.  Have a happy and safe Halloween!

She Is What She Is

Like most of you, I vaguely remember hearing about the Paula Deen case earlier this year.  I don’t watch her shows or intentionally buy her products, but I definitely knew who she was.  So when I heard that she was being sued for racial discrimination and had admitted under oath to using the n-word, I pretty much thought she was getting what she deserved.  Much like Mel Gibson’s racist rant a few years prior, I thought it was just another case of a celebrity’s “true persona” being revealed publically.  To be honest, I never really thought much more about it.

This weekend, I spent half of Saturday happily cooking and baking in my kitchen.  With the television on in the background, Deen’s True Hollywood Story happened to come on and by the time it was over, I knew it was going to be this week’s blog topic.  Dean was sued by a former employee, Lisa Jackson, who is Caucasian.  Jackson said she suffered from sexual harassment and was forced to endure racially offensive language during her five years as a restaurant manager where Deen is a co-owner.  As part of her deposition in the case, Deen, who grew up in the Georgia, admitted under oath that she had in the distant past, used the n-word when referencing African-Americans.  As a result of her testimony, she lost both of her Food Network shows and many corporate sponsors.  In response, Deen went on The Today Show to apologize and deny any kind of prejudice, famously saying, “I is what I is and I’m not changing”.  It was this very interview that led many people to believe that Deen didn’t seem very sorry for her actions.

I didn’t know how the case had been resolved until I saw the show.  The lawsuit ended up being thrown out by the courts.  Deen’s accuser, Lisa Jackson, issued a statement saying in part that she never heard Deen use any racial slurs, and that her issues at the restaurant were not with Deen.  The statement came a bit too late, as Deen was already facing tremendous public backlash over her testimony.  Her career and reputation will forever be tarnished by this incident, and some say rightfully so.

This case really got me thinking – so my question to you this week will have two parts.  First, “Do you think admitting to using the n-word, or other racial slurs make someone a racist?  Is it possible for people to grow and change, or do you think once a racist, always a racist?”  Second, “Why do you think the media only seemed to report one side of this case?  Do you think they intentionally tried to make the case as divisive as possible, or is this simply another case of “celebrities gone bad” that makes for good reporting?”  I’m not sure of the answers myself, so I’ll be interested to hear what you think!  Answers are due no later than Wednesday, October 31^st, 2013.

 

Defining a Culture of Rape

Last week, I was shocked when I read about an interview Chris Brown gave to Vanity Fair, in which he divulged that he lost his virginity at the age of 8 to a girl who was 14 or 15 years old.  When asked by the interviewer about being so young, it was reported that Chris grinned and chuckled and said, “It’s different in the country”.  The sad fact is that whether he realizes it or not, what Brown described is rape.  A few quarters ago, I blogged about the Ohio rape case that garnered national attention, when the high school aged rapist took photos and videos while in the act, and then shared them with other students on social media.  You can read my thoughts on that case and your fellow students’ comments here:  http://historicalandpoliticalissues.blogspot.com/2013/04/take-back-our-nights-take-baqck-our.html

That same quarter, I had a student do her final project on “rape culture,” a term that unfortunately is becoming more common, especially when it comes to minors.  Sexual abuse is almost as common for boys as it is for girls, but often because of how society defines masculinity, people have trouble acknowledging male victims.  Consider that Josh Brolin has also gone on record saying he was 11 when he lost his virginity, and he attributed his young age to “general teen wildness.”  Dave Navarro has also stated he was 13 when he lost his virginity and it made him feel “like a king”.

I know as a female, most of us grew up with parents and other adults giving us advice on how to avoid situations that may lead to rape: “Don’t walk alone at night.”  “Don’t accept drinks or rides from strangers.” “Leave with who you came with”. “Be alert, especially when you’re walking alone”.  So my first question for this week is for the guys, “What, if anything were you told about rape growing up?  Who talked to you about it – your teachers, your parents, or your friends?”  For everyone I would like to know, “Do you view male sexual abuse differently than female sexual abuse?  Be honest!  What makes you feel the way you do?”  Answers are due no later than Tuesday, October 22^nd, 2013

America SHUTDOWN!

I’ve never taught this class before while the federal government was shut down.  I’ve blogged about elections, inaugurations and wars – but never a government shutdown.  So I was happy to read your responses from last week and realize that it’s on your mind too.  What is causing the shutdown?  When will it end?  It’s hard to wade through all the information that’s being tossed about and get to the real facts.  So in this post, I will do my best to do just that.

Congress has one main duty; to pass spending bills that fund the government.  The government’s fiscal year runs from October 1^st – September 30^th, meaning the Congress had to approve a spending plan for the new year by September 30^th.  When Congress failed to do so this year, the federal government shutdown – meaning all non-essential government functions grinded to halt. 

The main issue is that Republicans insist that any new spending bill include provisions to defund, derail or otherwise chip away at the Affordable Care Act, commonly referred to as Obamacare.  The Affordable Care Act requires all Americans to have health insurance.  Republicans feel it will hurt employers because it requires companies with over 50 employees to provide health insurance to their employees.  Opponents to the new law also feel it amounts to over-reaching by the federal government – essentially saying it is not the federal government’s job to mandate healthcare for all citizens.

Democrats say the law will expand access to healthcare and help reign in the rising costs of healthcare coverage.  The Affordable Care Act prevents those with pre-existing medical conditions from being denied health insurance, and allows young adults to stay on their parents’ coverage until 26 years of age.  Supporters also say individuals who have health insurance will no longer have to indirectly pay for emergency visits from individuals who aren’t insured.

There is no telling how the long the shutdown will last, and what the effect of the shutdown will be on our economy.  One thing is for certain, both sides have dug in their heels and no end is in sight.  So my question to you this week is, “What do you think of the Affordable Care Act?  Do you support it or oppose it?  What do you think is a solution to the shutdown?”  Answers are due no later than Tuesday, October 15^th, 2013.  Just for fun, check out this Jimmy Kimble video in which he goes to the street to find out if people support the Affordable Care Act or Obamacare (hint: they’re the same thing). http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sx2scvIFGjE

Choose Your Own Adventure

It's always hard coming back to school after break. Don't get me wrong, I love teaching and being surrounded by all the crazy, creative evergy that is all of you. That being said, it's still hard to get back into the grind. So for our first blog post, I'll go easy on you.

This week we started our study of the Constitution and the freedoms that make us uniquely American. You can order your own free copy of the United States Constitution from: http://www.constitutionfacts.com/index.cfm?section=bookstore&page=freeCopy.cfm

Normally, our first blog post has something to do with the freedoms you value most and whether or not you are proud to call yourself an American. This quarter, I would like to start with something different. A good portion of this class will be spent discussing current events and political issues that affect our everyday lives. For this post, I would like you to tell me at least one issue that you are interested in studying. To help you out, you can look over the blog posts that we've had in the past several years to get an idea of the type of things we've covered. Many of the topics are pretty controversial and I do my best to not censor the information available to you.

So my question to you this week is, "What is one issue that you are interested in studying in this class?" Answers are due no later than Tuesday, October 8th, 2013. I'm looking forward to a great quarter!

Your Thoughts and Feedback Are Appreciated!

Well another quarter has come and gone!  I have enjoyed getting to know all of you and hearing your opinions in class!  When we started together, most of you hated politics, and now you are ready to go out and change the world!  I wish all of you blessings and success in the future.  Please stay in touch and feel free to visit and post on the blog whenever you like.

So for our last blog post, I would like to get your thoughts and feedback on the class.  "What did you like or dislike about the class?  What could I do to make it better?"  Answers are due no later than Sunday, September 15th, 2013.  After that, the blog will be down until class resumes next quarter.  To those of you who are graduating, congratulations on all your hard work and achievements!  For everyone else, I hope you enjoy the break!  Signing off for the last time....(okay maybe not the last time, but it sounded good)

Bombs Over Syria?

Recently, we discussed the enumerated powers of the President in class.  We went over how Presidents are supposed to get Congressional approval before committing troops to battle, however since Vietnam, Presidents have failed to do so.  Which is why I was all the more interested to learn this past week that President Obama is indeed getting Congressional approval before launching a potential missile strike against Syria.

At issue in the escalating conflict between the United States and Syria is the use of chemical weapons.  The United States is accusing the Assad regime of using sarin nerve gas to kill its own people.  According to the U.S., in a most recent attack, 1,429 people were killed, including 400 children.

Supporters of a military strike say we can’t allow rogue regimes to kill innocent civilians, regardless of where they live.  As the largest and most powerful military in the world, the United States has a responsibility to ensure other countries are not using chemical and biological weapons, especially against civilians. France has come out in support of a U.S. military strike, although they may be one of the few countries to do so.

The United Nations Security Council and Great Britain do not support U.S. intervention.  In addition, protests all around the country have already started against what many feel will just amount to another conflict that drains the U.S. economy, and make enemies of another Middle Eastern country.  Indeed, while traveling over the weekend for the holiday, I saw protesters hanging signs over the overpasses on I-65 protesting any military action against Syria.

So my question to you this week is, “Do you think the United States should launch a missile strike against Syria?  Do you think the United States should always get involved when other countries commit these types of atrocities against innocent civilians?”  Answers are due no later than Sunday, September 8^th, 2013

When Will It Stop?

Yet again, I must write a post about what could’ve been a devastating school shooting.  Last week, 20 year old Michael Brandon Hill walked into McNair Discovery Learning Academy in Decatur, Georgia armed with an AK-47 and over 500 rounds of ammunition.  Thankfully, he encountered school bookkeeper, Antionette Tuff who was able to talk him into surrendering.  By keeping her composure, detailing her own struggles in life and offering to pray for Hill, Ms. Tuff became a true American hero.

Whenever I blog about an issue that relates to a previous post, I always post the link so you can read my thoughts and your fellow students’ comments.  It was with a heavy heart today that I realized just how many times I have posted about senseless gun violence on this blog: Fort Hood, Virginia Tech, Aurora Colorado, Tucson Arizona, and of course, Newtown Connecticut.  If you’re interested in reading any of these posts, you can use the search word “shooting” in the search bar located at the top of the page.

Each time we have a mass shooting such as this (and there have just been far too many in my opinion), our nation’s political dialogue becomes more focused on our country’s gun laws. Some have felt that we need stricter gun laws to prevent tragedies such as this from happening. According to Senator Dianne Feinstein, “weapons of war don’t belong on our streets”. Colorado Governor, John Hickenlooper, expressed skepticism that tougher gun laws would’ve prevented the Aurora, Colorado tragedy stating, “If there were no assault weapons available – this guy’s going to find something right?” Senator Ron Johnson agrees, “I don’t think society can keep sick, demented, individuals from obtaining any type of weapon to kill people. Somebody who purposely wants to harm another individual is going to find a method to do so”.

 I’ll be frank – I’m torn on this issue. I don’t come from a family that owns guns. I don’t think I would want one in my home. That being said, I strongly support the U.S. Constitution and the people’s right to bear arms. I just think there should be better background checks, waiting periods, etc. I think the real problem here is a lack of mental healthcare in this country – which might be a whole other blog. I know I don’t have all the answers, but it’s clear to me that something must be done to stop, (or at least try and stop) this senseless violence.

So my question to you this week is, “How do you feel about our country’s gun laws? What should the government’s responsibility be, if anything, in preventing crimes like this in the future?” Answers are due no later than Sunday, September 1st. My thoughts and prayers go out to anyone affected by senseless violence, especially the community of Decatur, Georgia.

 

 

Does Welfare Equal Drug Use?

Earlier this year, the Indiana legislature passed a bill that requires recipients of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) to take and pass a written drug test in order to secure their welfare benefits.  If the written test indicates likely drug use, recipients could be chosen for monthly random drug tests.  If you’re like me, you’re wondering how someone takes a written drug test.  This was something I’d never even heard of prior to this legislation.  How would a written test determine if you had used drugs?  In my research for this post, I found a few of the questions that are asked on the test – individuals are told to answer yes or no.:

• At times, I feel worn out for no special reason
• I have not lived the way I should
• I don’t like to sit and daydream
• I have a drink first thing in the morning to steady my nerves

Wow!  Here I was thinking I’m just extra tired some days, meanwhile, it could indicate to somebody that I have a substance abuse problem.  If the written test indicates likely drug use, you could be chosen for monthly random drug test.  Test positive, and you’re looking at a mandatory treatment program, or loss of your benefits.  Should you choose treatment; you will continue to be drug tested on a monthly basis for four months.  Fail another test, and you will lose your TANF benefits for three months.  Fail a third test, and you’re banned for life.

Drug testing welfare recipients is an issue heating up all around the country.  Currently, legislation has been proposed in 29 states and passed in 8.  Supporters say testing welfare recipients will cost $.5 million, but will save the state $1.5 million in aid they would withhold from drug users.  They say it’s imperative that individuals aren’t using government money to buy drugs.

Opponents feel the new legislation amounts to nothing more than suspicion-less, population-based screening.  They cite studies which show that drug and alcohol issues among welfare recipients are not widespread.  In fact, studies have shown that while welfare recipients are slightly more likely than a comparison group to use drugs or alcohol, the differences were rarely statistically significant.  Mandatory testing may turn a person away from applying for benefits, which in turn, takes away resources from children in those families.

So, my question to you this week is, “What do you think of mandatory drug testing for welfare recipients?  Is it smart public policy or an infringement of civil liberties?”  Answers are due no later than Sunday, August 25^th, 2013.

 

Did We All Get Snowed?

Last week in class we discussed investigatory journalism, and how sometimes, the media can sometimes hold the government accountable by uncovering stories that otherwise wouldn’t be revealed to the public.  By now, I’m sure you have all heard about Edward Snowden, an American computer specialist who worked for the CIA and National Security Agency (NSA), and subsequently leaked details of several top secret U.S. and British government mass surveillance programs.  The leaked information showed that the NSA was collecting data from thousands of mobile phone calls to and from U.S. citizens, not only without a warrant, but without their knowledge.  On June 14^th, Snowden was charged with espionage and theft of government property.  He left the United States prior to the publication of surveillance information, and currently resides in Russia, which has granted him temporary asylum.

Some have hailed Snowden a “hero” and a true American patriot.  Snowden has stated he felt it was his duty to “inform the public as to that which is done in their name and that which is done against them.”  Many feel these surveillance programs are unlawful and interfere with an individuals’ right to privacy.

Other feels Snowden is an American traitor.  His actions have resulted in the most significant NSA security breech in U.S. history.  Multiple countries, under pressure from the U.S. government refused to grant Snowden political asylum, including Spain, France and Italy.  A poll conducted by USA today and Pew Research found 49% of Americans thought Snowden’s actions served the public interest, while 44% thought his actions harmed the U.S. government.

So, my question to you this week is, “Do you think Snowden’s actions represent those of an American hero or an American traitor?  Do you support surveillance of citizens’ phone records, if it means making the country more secure from terrorists?”  Answers are due no later than Sunday, August1 8th, 2013.

  

The Modern Day Picasso

It might surprise you to know that I’m a big Jay Z fan. His first album, Reasonable Doubt dropped the summer I graduated from high school.  His songs filled the clubs and parties when I was in college.  Several years later, I saw him in concert on the Hard Knocks Life tour.  To this day, I can’t hear an old Jay Z song without remembering my good old college days.  Makes me feel kind of old.  J

Jay Z and I kind of grew up together.  Wherever I was in life – his music was right there with me.  Which is why I was excited to watch the premiere of his new video “Picasso Baby: A Performance Art Piece,” which premiered on HBO this past Friday.  Inspired by the performance artist Marina Abramovic,  (who is also featured in the video) Jay Z rapped for six straight hours, as individuals approached him and were able to interact with him.  You can check out the video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xMG2oNqBy-Y

I love performance art, and I really enjoyed the concept of this piece.  Even if you’re not a Jay Z fan, I encourage you to watch it.  Several quarters ago, I wrote a post on public art and the value it brings to a community.  Public art can educate, increase property values, draw more tourism to a city and lower crime.  You can check out my thoughts and what you fellow students wrote here: http://historicalandpoliticalissues.blogspot.com/2011/11/next-great-indy-artist.html

So my question to you this week is, “If money were no object – meaning you didn’t have to worry about how much money your project would cost – what type of art piece would you create for the city?  Would you consider doing a performance art piece?  What would your message be?”  Answers are due no later than Sunday, August 11^th, 2013.

Living Water

Some of you already know that I spent our last break in Nicaragua on a mission trip.  Water and all it symbolizes became a re-occurring theme for me while on this trip. I knew beforehand that the water in Nicaragua wasn’t safe for us to drink. We had large jugs of warm, but clean water at the mission project, so I didn’t think too much about it prior to going. It wasn’t until I was actually there in front of the sink that I realized I would need bottled water to brush my teeth. I started noticing just how much I rely on water throughout the day. Every time I showered, or washed my hands, or saw my clothes being washed, I had the conscience thought that the water wasn’t “clean”. I can’t quite explain it, but water was on my mind a lot.

Going into it, I knew water was a scarce resource for many developing countries.  I also knew that the United States is a big consumer of all the world’s natural resources and I wondered just what effect that would have on my experience.  What I didn’t know is the extent of our wastefulness. Consider the following:

• Americans use about 100 gallons of water at home each day.
• Millions of the world’s poorest subsist on less than 5 gallons per day.
• 46% of the world’s population doesn’t have water piped to their homes (yet we have a water cooler in our office!)
• 1 out of 8 people in the world lack access to clean water.
• 3.3 million people die from water-related health problems each year.
• In Florida, 3,000 gallons are used to water the grass for each golf game played – and that’s just in Florida!
• U.S. swimming pools lose 150 billion gallons to evaporation each year.

When you are standing in a developing country, watching kids play right next to open sewage flowing down the path – it becomes apparent just how wasteful we really are.  It made me feel really shameful actually.  I already cared deeply about the environment prior to going on this trip, but this experience awakened the activist in me.  Having access to clean water should be a human right. 

So my question to you this week is two-fold, “Do you think the United States should spend money to help the developing world obtain access to clean water – even when we have our own problems right here at home?  What are some things you could do to lower your own water usage?”  Answers are due no later than Sunday, August 5^th, 2013.

I'll Follow You Until You Love Me

I woke up this morning to news that the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton is in labor.  After weeks of paparazzi being on “baby watch” the frenzy is now even more heightened as they camp outside the hospital hoping to capture a picture.  I understand this baby will be third in line to the Royal throne, but I can’t help but feel they should give the woman some space.  I’m sure I don’t have to remind you that Princess Diana, was tragically killed in 1996 after being pursued on a high-speed chase by paparazzi, who then stood over her dying body and continued to snap photos of her last moments alive.

Here in America, we have even more lenient laws towards paparazzi.  The list of celebrities who have had altercations with paparazzi is long, and usually results in the celebrity being criminally charged.  Consider the following:

• Chris Martin, the front man for the band Coldplay was charged with malicious damage after attacking a paparazzi’s car for getting too close to his wife Gwyneth Paltrow, who was pregnant at the time.
• In 2010 Russell Brand was arrested for battery after he pushed a photographer for trying to take an up-skirt photo of his then-girlfriend, Katy Perry.
• In January, a paparazzo was killed after pursuing Justin Bieber on a high-speed chase down the Los Angeles freeway.
• In June, Kim Kardashian was boxed in by four cars on the freeway, who then forced her to slow down so they could photograph her through the windows.  When she complained, she says they subsequently threatened her life and the life of her unborn child.
• Last week, Kanye West was involved in an altercation with paparazzi at LAX, which is currently under investigation and may result in charges for the star.

Many say this is just the unfortunate price of fame.  Celebrities know what they’re getting in to when they choose high profile careers.  The paparazzi have a job to do, and the better or more scandalous the photos, the more money they make.  Others say it’s a dangerous violation of privacy and there needs to be tougher laws.  In a few weeks, we will discuss the right to privacy, which is an implied right in America, not an enumerated one.  We will talk about how the Courts have ruled in privacy cases that don’t involve celebrities.  So my question to you this week is, “What do you think about paparazzi who will “do anything” to get the shot?  Should we enforce tougher laws and restrictions on them, or are they only doing their job?  Would you feel differently if you were a celebrity?”  Answers are due no later than Sunday, July 28^th, 2013.

Justice For Trayvon - Part 2

I’m sure by now you all have heard about the Trayvon Martin case.  Martin was a 17 year old, unarmed, high school student who was fatally shot after an altercation with George Zimmerman, a neighborhood watch coordinator.  I initially blogged about the details of the case last year, shortly after Zimmerman was arrested for murder, 45 days after Martin’s death.  You can read my initial post, including Zimmerman’s 9-1-1 call and see your fellow students’ comments here: http://historicalandpoliticalissues.blogspot.com/search?q=trayvon

On Sunday, a jury found Zimmerman not guilty of the charges, which set off demonstrations around the country protesting the verdict.  The jury found Zimmerman innocent under Florida’s controversial “Stand Your Ground” law, which allows individuals to use “justifiable force in self-defense when there is reasonable belief of unlawful threat”.

So my question to you this week is two-fold.  “Do you agree or disagree with the jury’s verdict?  Do you agree with “Stand Your Ground” laws – why or why not?”  You must answer both questions to earn full credit.  Answers are due no later than Sunday, July 21^st, 2013.

Choose Your Own Adventure

It's always hard coming back to school after break. Don't get me wrong, I love teaching and being surrounded by all the crazy, creative evergy that is all of you. That being said, it's still hard to get back into the grind.  So for our first blog post, I'll go easy on you.

This week we started our study of the Constitution and the freedoms that make us uniquely American. You can order your own free copy of the United States Constitution from: http://www.constitutionfacts.com/index.cfm?section=bookstore&page=freeCopy.cfm

Normally, our first blog post has something to do with the freedoms you value most and whether or not you are proud to call yourself an American. This quarter, I would like to start with something different. A good portion of this class will be spent discussing current events and political issues that affect our everyday lives. For this post, I would like you to tell me at least one issue that you are interested in studying. To help you out, you can look over the blog posts that we've had in the past several years to get an idea of the type of things we've covered. Many of the topics are pretty controversial and I do my best to not censor the information available to you.

So my question to you this week is, "What is one issue that you are interested in studying in this class?" Answers are due no later than Sunday, July 14th, 2013. I'm looking forward to a great quarter!

Your Thoughts and Feedback Are Appreciated!

Well another quarter has come and gone!  I have enjoyed getting to know all of you and hearing your opinions in class!  When we started together, most of you hated politics, and now you are ready to go out and change the world!  I wish all of you blessings and success in the future.  Please stay in touch and feel free to visit and post on the blog whenever you like.

So for our last blog post, I would like to get your thoughts and feedback on the class.  "What did you like or dislike about the class?  What could I do to make it better?"  Answers are due no later than Wednesday, June 12th, 2013.  After that, the blog will be down until class resumes next quarter.  To those of you who are graduating, congratulations on all your hard work and achievements!  For everyone else, I hope you enjoy the break!  Signing off for the last time....(okay maybe not the last time, but it sounded good)

Our Resolve Will Not Waiver

I was traveling last year on September 11^th when I first heard about the attack on the American diplomatic compound in Benghazi, Libya.  Trust me - it’s unsettling enough to be at the airport on September 11^th, never mind when all the television screens are filled with news about a new attack and the loudspeaker is repeatedly announcing that the airport is on high alert.  Like many other Americans that day, I sat in stunned silence as we gathered around the television trying to hear more information.  It was a sad day that brought back a lot of feelings I had on that same day eleven years before, when four planes disrupted our clear September morning and changed our country forever.

The Benghazi attack killed four people, including U.S. Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens, and injured ten others.  Although at the time, the motive of the attack seemed to be unclear, a U. S. State Department investigation found the attack to be premeditated and carried out by Islamist militants.

There has been much controversy around how the United States, specifically the Department of State of President Obama responded to the attacks.  A Congressional investigation found more than twelve violent events during six months prior to the attack, and stated in their report that, “these events indicated a clear pattern of security threats that could only be reasonably interpreted to justify increased security at the compound.”  Yet, the Department of State ignored or denied requests from Benghazi for more guards at the compound and a security upgrade.  In addition, President Obama received much criticism regarding how he categorized the attack, with some news stations reporting he said the attack was a spontaneous protest that got out of hand, rather than a premeditated terror attack, while others said he was not forceful enough in denouncing terror.

The investigation as to who knew what and when did they know it, is currently underway.  Some say that foreign diplomats know and understand the risks they are taking when they are posted to embassies in dangerous locations.  In other words, it comes with the job, much like the military.  Others say this is a massive government cover-up that may derail President Obama’s second term.  So my question to you this week involves a little research.  First, spend a little time getting to know more about the attack and the foregoing investigation.  Then tell me, “What do you think about how the U.S. handled it?  Is it a massive cover-up, or is the media making too much of the story?  What should the United States have done differently?”  Answers are due no later than Wednesday, June 5^th, 2013. 

There's No Place Like Home - Part 2

The plan was to blog this week about the American embassy workers who were killed in attack on our embassy in Benghazi, Libya.  The investigation is currently under way as to who knew what and when they knew it.  Unfortunately, the events in Oklahoma this week have caused me to change topics.  You’ll have to stay tuned for Benghazi next week.

On Monday, a storm President Obama called, “one of the most destructive in history,” swept through Oklahoma, causing what some estimate to be $1 billion in damages.  The storm, which at some point was 2 miles wide and had winds over 200 mph left a 17 mile path of destruction.  As of the time of this writing, 237 people have been injured, 24 are confirmed dead and the numbers may be rising as people continue to sort through the rubble that was left in the storm’s wake.  To donate to the relief effort, or see how you can help, please go to: http://www.redcross.com/

A few weeks ago, we watched the movie The Inconvenient Truth in class and discussed your views on global warming.  I shared my thoughts and views that storms like this and Hurricane Sandy are only going to become more common place.  Here in Indiana it’s easy to get complacent about crazy weather. The sirens go off so much that many times, we tend to just ignore them. So my question to you this week is, “What is your plan for severe weather here in Indiana?  Do you respond to the emergency warnings?  What would have to happen for you to be more cautious?”  Answers are due no later than Wednesday, May 23^rd, 2013.

This spring has taught me just how deadly these storms can be – and how quickly they can go from bad to worse. It makes me sad to know that people had to lose so much for me to actually pay attention. So, I’m taking a vow. I’m promising to create a “weather kit” including flashlights, batteries, water, first aid and other items I may need in case of severe weather. Even more, I’m promising to start paying more attention to the sirens and actually take cover when they tell me to. A few hours lost by taking cover may just mean a few more lives saved. I hope you will pledge to join me in this endeavor – it’s the very least we can do. To those of you who have lost possessions, homes and loved ones during this storm season, my heart and prayers go out to you. 

P.S.  This weekend, many of us will enjoy a long weekend filled with cook-outs, family, friends and the Indy 500.  May we not forget the soldiers who have sacrificed so much.  Thank you – you are not forgotten.

Fight Like Hell - And Then Some

I don’t come from a family affected much by cancer.  We have heart disease and mental health issues, yes, but not cancer.  Thank God.  Just the word alone scares me.  CANCER.  Whether you choose chemotherapy, radiation, tumor removal or no treatment at all, there’s no doubt about it – if you hear the word cancer – you’ve got a fight on your hands.

According to the American Cancer Society, there are over 1.6 million new cases of cancer and over 580,000 new cases of cancer each year.  That means cancer kills roughly 1,600 people per day, making it the 2^nd most common cause of death in the United States.  What was even more shocking – the probability of developing cancer at some point in your life is 1:2 for men and 1:3 for women.  For men, the most common cancers are lung, prostrate and liver.  For women, the most common cancers are lung, breast and colorectal.

Like everyone else this week, I heard the news about Angelina Jolie coming forward to say she had undergone a preventive double mastectomy.  Jolie’s mother died at the young age of 56, after battling cancer for a decade.  After finding out through testing, that she had inherited a “faulty” gene which increased her breast cancer chances to 87%, Jolie opted for the procedure.  I have to say, it takes a lot of courage to undergo a double mastectomy – especially when there’s no sign you even have the disease yet.  Her openness about the decision and the treatment has no doubt, inspired many.  It got me thinking – what would I do to avoid cancer?  Would I change the way I live?  What I eat?  How I look?

So my question to you this week is, “Would you be willing to sacrifice a body part, if it meant lowering your risk of this dreaded disease?”  We’ve all heard about Race for a Cure, the Livestrong Foundation and the American Cancer Society – “Do you think more should be done to raise awareness about cancer?  Do you make conscience decisions to change your behavior to avoid it?”  Answers are due no later than Wednesday, May 22^nd, 2013. If you or a loved one has been affected by cancer, my heart and prayers go out to you.  If you feel up to sharing your testimony, please do so – you never know, it could save a life.

 

Kids Having Kids

This past week I read an article about Caitlin Tiller, a North Carolina high school senior whose picture was banned from the yearbook.  The graduating seniors had been invited to include something in the yearbook photo that represented one of their achievements.  Some students included instruments, sports equipment and pets in their photos.  Tiller included her young son.  Her photo was then banned by school administrators, and she was not able to submit a new one in time to make the printing of the yearbook.

Tiller said having her son as a teenager motivated her to not only finish high school, but start college early all while working 30 hours/week and taking care of her son.  The school administrators say the photo promotes and glorifies teen pregnancy. 

Only 50% of U.S. teen moms receive a high school diploma by the age of 22, so Tiller’s accomplishment of graduating on time, with the rest of her class is certainly an accomplishment.  In addition, as of 2011, teen pregnancy in the United States has reached an all-time low, although U.S. pregnancy rates are still twice as high as England or Canada, and eight times higher than the Netherlands and Japan.

You’ve all probably seen or heard of the controversial MTV show, Teen Mom, which follows the lives of four young women who had children while still teenagers in high school.  While some praise the show for depicting the real life struggles teen moms often go through, the show has also received criticism that they too glorify teen pregnancy and make celebrities out of teenagers who made bad decisions.

So my question to you this week is, “What do you think of Tiller’s case?  Does her photo and shows like Teen Mom promote teen pregnancy?  Our current methods don’t seem to be that effective, so how should we address the issue of pregnancy with teenagers?”  Answers are due no later than Wednesday, March 15^th, 2013.  Don’t forget – our fundraiser for the Julian Center, a domestic violence shelter here in Indianapolis is still going on.  You can access their wish list here http://www.juliancenter.org/Donate/Wish-List.aspx  and bring any of the items to class during the month of March.

Children Being Left Behind

I come from a family of teachers.  My mother has been a Kindergarten teacher for twenty-six years.  My aunt recently retired after thirty years as a 1^st grade teacher. My sister currently teaches at a public high school right here in Indianapolis, and I of course, teach here at AI.  So I know first-hand what teachers go through.  My sister spends countless unpaid hours grading papers, calling parents, buying her own supplies and attending the games of her students.  Whether is coaching Science Olympiad, chaperoning prom or cheering her students on from the sidelines, she’s a teacher that shows up.  We need more teachers like her – which is why it’s so sad that she’s thinking about quitting her profession.  With students that can’t read or write at the grade level they’re in, parents that don’t seem interested in their child’s learning, and an administration that pressures her to teach only what’s on the standardize test, she feels helpless.  She’s not the only one either.  Recently, a life-long educator posted this resignation letter, in which he comes to the realization that his chosen profession may no longer exist: http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/answer-sheet/wp/2013/04/06/teachers-resignation-letter-my-profession-no-longer-exists/

Standardized tests are supposed to accurately measure increases in student learning, and national standards are designed to make the United States a leader in education – but are they working?  Consider the following:

• In 2009, the United States ranked #21 out of 26 developed countries for high-school graduation rates.  Just twenty years prior, we were ranked #1.
• 85% of foreign exchange students say their U.S. classes are easier than classes in their native countries.
• In a standardized world assessment, given to students in 74 countries, the United States ranked #31 in Math, #23 in Science and #17 in reading.

There is no doubt that our education system is falling behind many other countries.  Some say more core, national standards are the answer, while others say standardized tests don’t take into account different learning styles.  Teachers now have bonuses and raises tied to how well their students perform – some of which, they have no control over.  Arts and music are being removed from curriculums all across the country and many school systems no longer have the budget for field trips and educational, hands-on experiences.  Parents blame the teachers, teachers blame the administrators and all the while our students suffer and fall farther and farther behind their peers.

So my question to you this week is, “What do you think should be done to fix our education system?  What kind of environment do you think students learn best in?  Do standardized tests help or hurt our education system?”  Answers are due no later than Wednesday, May 8^th, 2013.  P.S.  Recently, I had a student who specifically requested this topic – I won’t call you out by name, but you know who you are – this one’s for you!

Take Back Our Nights, Take Back Our Days, Take Back Our Lives!

Last month, I was shocked to hear about the Ohio case in which two high school football players were convicted of sexually assaulting a fellow student.  The victim, who was too intoxicated at the time to consent, was digitally penetrated more than once by her attackers.  Other students took pictures and videos of the attack, which were then posted online.  What struck me as even more appalling was that the defendants testified they didn’t think it was rape because “it wasn’t violent”.

Then just two weeks ago, I read about another similar case in California in which three 16 year old boys sexually assaulted a 15 year old girl and also posted pictures of the attack online.  The victim, devastated from the attack and the subsequent shame of having the photos disseminated, hung herself eight days later.

These are just two of thousands of the stories across the country involving rape and sexual assault.  Consider the following shocking statistics from the World Health Organization:

• 1:5 women in Indiana will be raped in their lifetime
• 44% of women in Indiana will endure sexual violence other than rape
• Victims are 3 times more likely to suffer from depression
• Victims are 13 times more likely to abuse alcohol and 26 times more likely to abuse drugs
• Perpetrators have only a 4% chance of being arrested, prosecuted and convicted of rape and sexual assault.  Only a 4% chance!!

As I mentioned last week, April is sexual assault awareness month.  We simply have to do more to stop this epidemic of violence against women.  So my question to you this week is, “What do you think could be done to raise awareness about this issue and to help stop sexual violence against women?”  Really think about it!  Ladies – we’ve probably all been told not to accept drinks from others, walk alone late at night and/or wear revealing clothes.  That doesn’t get at the heart of the issue.  How will you teach your daughters, sisters and nieces about this issue?  Guys – I’d love to hear more about what you’ve been taught growing up about rape and sexual assault as well.  Answers are due no later than Wednesday, May 1^st, 2013. 

 As I mentioned last week, all through April and May I will be raising supplies for the Julian Center, a local domestic violence shelter. Click here to access their wish list: http://www.juliancenter.org/Donate/Wish-List.aspx   You can bring any of these items to class over the next two months to be a part of this great cause. Last year, the AI students donated over $1,000 items!! Let’s see if we can beat that total!

Marathon Terror

I would be remiss this week, if I didn’t devote the blog to the terrible tragedy that happened in Boston on Monday, in which two explosions went off near the finish line of the Boston Marathon.  At the time of this writing, three individuals have died, and 176 are injured – 17 of them critically.  There are no words that can covey my sadness over another senseless tragedy, and my anger at individuals who get their kicks off of committing these atrocities.

Recently, I watched the Oscar winning movie, Zero Dark Thirty, about the manhunt for Osama Bin Laden.  The movie has been somewhat controversial for graphic depictions of torture that the United States employed in an attempt to get individuals to provide information on Bin Laden’s whereabouts.  President Bush is on record as saying he approved the use of certain “tools” on known terrorists including waterboarding, a freezing cell, and long periods without sleep, standing or in stress positions.  Pressure is currently mounting on the Obama administration to allow access to more documents pertaining to the CIA’s terror suspect detention program during the Bush administration, to clarify exactly what methods were employed, on whom and for what specific purposes.

So my question to you this week is, “Do you think the United States should torture individuals who may provide information needed to combat terrorism?  Does it make a difference if the terrorists are foreign or domestic?”  Answers are due no later than Wednesday, April 24^th, 2013.  My thoughts are prayers go out to my fellow Americans in Boston, and those affected by this tragedy.

P.S.  April is sexual assault awareness month!  Next week, I plan to blog about this issue, and all through April and May I will be raising supplies for the Julian Center, a local domestic violence shelter.  Click here to access their wish list:  http://www.juliancenter.org/Donate/Wish-List.aspx   You can bring any of these items to class over the next two months to be a part of this great cause.  Last year, the AI students donated over $1,000 items!!  Let’s see if we can beat that total!

 

All You Need Is Love - Part 2

As a teacher, you never know what kind of class you’re going to get.  You do your best to set a good tone and encourage dialogue, but inevitably, some classes are better than others.  So imagine my happiness as I read through your comments from last week.  From education to the environment, foreign policy, social programs, gun control, prayer in school and civil liberties – you were interested, and that is all I ask.  I was amused to read multiple comments which said, “I like environmental or social issues, but not political issues.”  My goal this quarter is to show you how environmental and social issues are political issues.  Regardless, I was very happy with your comments from last week.  I’m looking forward to getting to know all of you and hearing your opinions in class.  Now, on to this week’s post.

This week, we will discuss same sex marriage in class when we cover the Full Faith and Credit Clause. You are literally living history when it comes to same sex marriage.  President Obama became the first President in history to go on the record in support of same sex marriage.  After decades of avoiding the issue, the Supreme Court is currently hearing two cases that may drastically affect our country’s stance on the issue. Since I plan to discuss this with you in class, for this week’s blog I would like to expand on that issue and discuss same sex adoptions.

Efforts to ban gay and lesbian couples from adoption are heating up all across America. Florida, Mississippi and Utah have all banned same sex couples from adopting. In Michigan, gay or lesbians singles can adopt, but not couples.  Arkansas bans homosexuals from being foster parents.  Currently, sixteen additional states are considering bans of same sex adoptions, including Indiana.

Opponents of same sex adoptions, often say that children being raised with same-sex parents will have psychological issues, be bullied or teased at school, have unclear gender role models and perhaps even become gay or lesbian themselves.

Supporters of same sex adoptions include the National Adoption Center, the American Medical Association, the American Psychological Association and the American Pediatrics, all of which state that adoptions by gay or lesbian couples do not negatively affect children.

The issue of same sex adoption is one that inspires debate across America and will probably be left up to the courts to decide, however one thing is clear: we all want what is best for our children. So my question to you this week is, “What do you think of same sex adoptions? Why do you feel the way you do?” Answers are due by Wednesday, April 17^th, 2013. 

Choose Your Own Adventure

It's always hard coming back to school after break. Don't get me wrong, I love teaching and being surrounded by all the crazy, creative evergy that is all of you. That being said, it's still hard to get back into the grind.  So for our first blog post, I'll go easy on you.

This week we started our study of the Constitution and the freedoms that make us uniquely American. You can order your own free copy of the United States Constitution from: http://www.constitutionfacts.com/index.cfm?section=bookstore&page=freeCopy.cfm

Normally, our first blog post has something to do with the freedoms you value most and whether or not you are proud to call yourself an American. This quarter, I would like to start with something different. A good portion of this class will be spent discussing current events and political issues that affect our everyday lives. For this post, I would like you to tell me at least one issue that you are interested in studying. To help you out, you can look over the blog posts that we've had in the past several years to get an idea of the type of things we've covered. Many of the topics are pretty controversial and I do my best to not censor the information available to you.

So my question to you this week is, "What is one issue that you are interested in studying in this class?" Answers are due no later than Wednesday, April 10th, 2013. I'm looking forward to a great quarter!

Your Thoughts and Feedback Are Appreciated!

Well another quarter has come and gone.  When we started out together winter was in full swing, and now if this past weekend is any indication, spring is just around the corner. I hope you can all say that you learned something in this class, and that you keep in touch, and continue to post on the blog whenever you want.

With that being said, my final question to you is, “What did you like or dislike about the class? What could I do to make the class better?” Answers are due no later than Sunday, March 17^th, 2013 - which happens to be one of my favorite holidays St. Patrick's day!  Erin Go Braugh!  For those of you who celebrate - have a Happy Easter. For those of you who are graduating this quarter – congratulations! Your hard work has finally paid off!  For everyone else - have a good break.  Now go off and do big things - I'll be waiting!

Hear No Evil, See No Evil, Speak No Evil

Over the weekend, I watched the HBO documentary Mea Maxima Culpa: Silence in the House of God.  The movie covered some of the sexual abuse claims made by children who were residents at a Catholic deaf school.  Numerous children who attended the school came forward to say that Father Murphy, the head priest at the school had sexually abused them over a period of several years.  The movie was hard to watch.  I mean really hard to watch, as in after 10 minutes, I wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to get through it.  I did though, and what struck me most was how none of the other adults who knew or may have suspected the abuse was occurring, ever reported it to the authorities.

It reminded me of the Penn State scandal, in which Assistant Coach Jerry Sandusky was convicted of 45 counts of sexual abuse against young boys.  Several Penn State staff testified that they saw or heard of Sandusky’s abuse, but never reported it to police.

Now we can probably all agree that pedophiles are sick individuals that need to be incarcerated for their crimes, but what about bystanders who know the abuse is occurring but don’t report it?  47 states and the District of Columbia impose penalties on mandatory reporters who knowingly or willfully fail to make a report when they suspect a child is being abused or neglected.  In Indiana, individuals can be charged with a Class B misdemeanor.

Sexual abuse of children in this country is at epic proportions. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, approximately 17% of boys and 28% of girls will be victims of sexual abuse during their childhood.  Think about that for a minute. That’s over 1 out of every four girls! 

So my question to you this week is, “Do you think the penalties should be harsher for adults who know abuse is occurring, but don’t report it?  Why do you think someone would know a child is being abused, but not notify the authorities?”  You must answer both questions to earn full credit.  As for me, this whole topic has made me feel kind of ill.  I want to say I think adults who know abuse is occurring but fail to report it should get the same penalties the child molesters receive themselves.  Then again, even those penalties aren’t that harsh.  I’m eager to hear what you think.  Answers are due no later than Sunday, March 10^th, 2013.  Don’t forget!  Daylight Savings Time starts this Sunday!  Move your clocks ahead 1 hour.