A young woman making waves wherever she went, Chelsey Shuman left her mark in a variety of ways from her volunteering efforts to her notion that a good hug was a necessary part of everyone's day.
Nichole Souther, her life long best friend from high school, fondly remembers Chelsey's spirit and passion for life.
"In high school we used to have this joke that we always knew where Chels was because her laugh literally radiated through the halls. It was this loud obnoxious cackle that everyone grew to love."
As a sponsor counselor for eating disorders to fifty-three men and women Chelsey carried that spirit into her work hoping to give everyone she came into contact with a silver lining regardless of where they were coming from.
In her leather bound series of journals found she writes, "You know that feeling when you win a prize? That's exactly how I feel every time I can make someone smile. The best prize in the world!"
Andrea Waldman, cousin and closest friend, tightly grips a picture of the two of them bikini clad and laughing on the beach and fights back alligator sized tears.
"She was that girl that was there for everyone and anyone. Sometimes I think that allowed people to take advantage of her but she never seemed to care."
"'You can only control your own actions, the rest is up to fate'. That's what she used to tell me when I was down" says her younger sister Anna McCloskey, "A huge heart and an even bigger smile".
Chelsey graduated from the University of New Hampshire with her bachelors in English/Journalism and went on to get her Masters in English Teaching from Emerson.
Her passion for writing was evident from the beginning as soon as she could read and write according to her grandmother Rubylee Shuman.
"I remember I found her one day in her room surrounded by a sea of paper and not an inch was uncovered. When I asked her what she was doing she looked up and smiled saying she was writing the most beautiful story for me."
The passion for teaching came later but proved to be a turning point in her life, allowing her to bring the same joys she found in literature to students and only further spread her love of life.
"My daughter had so many gifts and all she ever wanted to do was share them. An amazing writer, teacher and person she will forever be missed and remembered" says her mother Karen McCloskey.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Suicide for Country
Today I was stopped short by the article on the rising suicide rate in India, some may even call it an epidemic.
People are taking their own life , over 200 so far, as protest in hopes of creating India's 29th state, Telangana, which is currently part of Andhra Pradesh (a very large state in the southern point of India).
It got me thinking about the suicide missions of the Islamic extremists and I guess you could call it an ethical debate on whether this form of suicide could be deemed acceptable by others.
My one huge difference that came to mind was the fact that the extremists take others lives along with their own and that is what makes it disgraceful in my book.
Outside of that, suicide really rattles me and while I understand they are doing it for a cause is this really the only way to be heard? The article said over 200 people have done this so far, and yet there is no response or change from the government so I have to think these people are dying for nothing.
What are the politics like in this region of India? Why has this fight been going on for decades? I think I'll have to revisit this after I do some research. I'll get back to you.
People are taking their own life , over 200 so far, as protest in hopes of creating India's 29th state, Telangana, which is currently part of Andhra Pradesh (a very large state in the southern point of India).
It got me thinking about the suicide missions of the Islamic extremists and I guess you could call it an ethical debate on whether this form of suicide could be deemed acceptable by others.
My one huge difference that came to mind was the fact that the extremists take others lives along with their own and that is what makes it disgraceful in my book.
Outside of that, suicide really rattles me and while I understand they are doing it for a cause is this really the only way to be heard? The article said over 200 people have done this so far, and yet there is no response or change from the government so I have to think these people are dying for nothing.
What are the politics like in this region of India? Why has this fight been going on for decades? I think I'll have to revisit this after I do some research. I'll get back to you.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Service Recruitment
Today's business section had an article about the U.S. service recruitment with the Army having "about 8,298 recruiters, the Navy, 5,034, the Marine Corps about 3,000 and the Air Force, 1,308."
The numbers really surprised me as I had no idea the U.S. had such focus on recruitment but I guess those numbers went up due to the current wars going on so that makes sense. The article goes on to talk about how the recruiters get around the country and their methods used and it got me thinking about how many people simply brush of these men and women, not because of a lack of caring but simply because no one is truly educated about what goes in the service.
For example few people know about all the options there are once you enlist concerning specializations and doing something you really love. Most people, in fact, think you enlist, go to boot camp and then are shipped off to fight when in reality you can actually have a lot of control over what you do so you can both serve your country and better yourself and your own goals.
Our book says "The primary purpose of journalism is to provide citizens with the information they need to be free and self-governing" (12). So while this article's purpose may not have been to focus on all aspects of recruitment I think readers could have definitely benefited from further exploration unless the government thinks it should all be glorified and not realized? In which case I say it's our mission as readers, aspiring journalists and journalists alike to dive right in.
The numbers really surprised me as I had no idea the U.S. had such focus on recruitment but I guess those numbers went up due to the current wars going on so that makes sense. The article goes on to talk about how the recruiters get around the country and their methods used and it got me thinking about how many people simply brush of these men and women, not because of a lack of caring but simply because no one is truly educated about what goes in the service.
For example few people know about all the options there are once you enlist concerning specializations and doing something you really love. Most people, in fact, think you enlist, go to boot camp and then are shipped off to fight when in reality you can actually have a lot of control over what you do so you can both serve your country and better yourself and your own goals.
Our book says "The primary purpose of journalism is to provide citizens with the information they need to be free and self-governing" (12). So while this article's purpose may not have been to focus on all aspects of recruitment I think readers could have definitely benefited from further exploration unless the government thinks it should all be glorified and not realized? In which case I say it's our mission as readers, aspiring journalists and journalists alike to dive right in.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Subway Suicide Mission
Today's paper had a piece on the horrible suicide missions of two female bombers in Moscow. They did so in two different subway stations killing 35 people as a part of their Islamic extremist movement.
I've never understood this movement and that may be due to the fact that I've only heard the Western and Israeli perspectives on all of this but still it is very hard to keep an open mind about a group that chooses to go to various countries and blow innocent people up because their "God told them so".
This whole idea of sacrifice feels so archaic and unrealistic because I cannot imagine any God having their followers hurt themselves and others in order to achieve salvation. It just doesn't add up.
I would LOVE to see the texts the extremist groups are basing their actions off of because to date I cannot think of one instance where they present evidence for their preaching tactics and beliefs.
Another question I have is why Moscow? This is the same area that was already hit by extremists- why round two? Is it still the separatist war or is there more to the story?
Feel free to fill me in, I'm all ears.
In our book The Elements of Journalism the authors looked at a story by Loretta Tofani where her work resulted in the exposure and the legal action that put the wrong do-ers behind bars because of multiple rapes they committed in a prison where officials were simply looking the other way. "Public disclosure of the information forced the government to change the system.."(154).
This came to mind as I read this breaking story about Moscow because with the coverage of this story people are looking at not only this attack but the attacks last year and in 2004 which all lead back to Vladimir Putin's actions regarding terrorism and his attempts to quietly and privately handle the problem. There are documents and people speaking up about Putin's mandates which controlled who could be in power and just how much power these individuals could have in an attempt to block any possible rebel groups with connections to the Islamic regime.
Journalists covering this angle of the story are bringing to light, therefore, the possible corruption and manipulative ways of the Russian government which could be at the core of this war in the first place. Therefore, if Putin had perhaps thoroughly acknowledged this terrorist group and done more people would not have died today, last year or even back in 2004 when he was re-elected for a second term as President. Now serving as Prime Minister he has a lot of questions to answer and hopefully he will begin to pay head to the public outcries and even fellow officials warnings.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Let's Cover Our Asses No Matter What it Costs Others
Front page today- covering the abuse cases concerning the some 200 deaf children- my heart is racing I have so much to say about this.
Because I could go on and on I am going to focus on two points today: the church's concern with their appearance and the sick bastard who considers himself a holy man while violating innocent deaf children.
1)Appearances...are you kidding me ? The church (I know this is usually capitalized but I don't think I will ever do so again because they don't deserve any recognition for their part in covering up centuries of sexual abuse) was more concerned in this situation with how it would all look to the public and how it would effect the reputation of the church itself rather than the victims. Correct me if I'm wrong but aren't these guys supposed to uphold the highest moral and spiritual conscience, "God's workers"?
They seem to be doing just the opposite. Honestly who cares how it makes you look- what would make you come out looking good from this situation is defrocking the twisted individuals who got off touching little boys. That would be taking responsibility, that would be proving your legitimacy in your positions, that would be the right and morally sound thing to do. By covering up acts, by allowing individuals to stay within the church is despicable and only adds disgrace to an already despicable and unforgivable act (or should I say acts?).
2)I'm going to look at one quote in particular that made me want to strangle this man more so than I already did. The lowlife "Reverend" Lawrence C. Murphy begged for there to be no trial and nothing done about his acts saying "I simply want to live out the time that I have left in the dignity of my priesthood." Are you f***ing kidding me?!
The "dignity" that you speak of went out the window when you pulled down your pants and the pants of 200 (that we know of) young boys and then continued to take no responsibility. I hope you know you will be burning in hell you sick demented little man.
Because I could go on and on I am going to focus on two points today: the church's concern with their appearance and the sick bastard who considers himself a holy man while violating innocent deaf children.
1)Appearances...are you kidding me ? The church (I know this is usually capitalized but I don't think I will ever do so again because they don't deserve any recognition for their part in covering up centuries of sexual abuse) was more concerned in this situation with how it would all look to the public and how it would effect the reputation of the church itself rather than the victims. Correct me if I'm wrong but aren't these guys supposed to uphold the highest moral and spiritual conscience, "God's workers"?
They seem to be doing just the opposite. Honestly who cares how it makes you look- what would make you come out looking good from this situation is defrocking the twisted individuals who got off touching little boys. That would be taking responsibility, that would be proving your legitimacy in your positions, that would be the right and morally sound thing to do. By covering up acts, by allowing individuals to stay within the church is despicable and only adds disgrace to an already despicable and unforgivable act (or should I say acts?).
2)I'm going to look at one quote in particular that made me want to strangle this man more so than I already did. The lowlife "Reverend" Lawrence C. Murphy begged for there to be no trial and nothing done about his acts saying "I simply want to live out the time that I have left in the dignity of my priesthood." Are you f***ing kidding me?!
The "dignity" that you speak of went out the window when you pulled down your pants and the pants of 200 (that we know of) young boys and then continued to take no responsibility. I hope you know you will be burning in hell you sick demented little man.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Should the Biddeford City Airport Close for 3 million or Stay Open for $60,000 Annualy?
To close or not to close, the Biddeford City Airport stands at the center of a heated debate between taxpayers, the Airport Authority and the airport staff.
For the taxpayers the airport stands as a burden both financially and property wise while the airport staff stands by their facility saying it brings in around $56,000 per year from gas, taxes and various land leases.
With 47 planes, the airport is small and only worth 1.6 million dollars yet costs around $60,000 to keep it running annually. According to the Airport Authority and the FAA ( http://faa.gov) it will cost a whopping 3 million to close, almost double the airport's total worth.
"While it is a small airport there is a lot of fuel and things of that nature that we have to transport and dispose of which ups the cost considerably" says a spokesperson for the Airport Authority.
The FAA is concerned about the proximity of the airport to the surrounding homes and businesses after hearing an account of a plane grazing trees close to a home and has been cutting down trees to make more room on the runway.
"Safety is our number one priority, not profit. While we understand people may feel more exposed now there have been incidences of children playing on the runway and just an overall breach of security. It's the right thing to do for everyone involved."
The National Association for Small Airports (NASA) agrees, saying that this airport while small is still bringing in a considerable amount of profit for the community and is at a convenient location for many corporations.
" It's a great thing to have for the community like Pease International Airport http://www.peasedev.org/pease/airport.asp . We are willing to listen to all sides in this situation so we can find a solution that works for everyone."
Phyllis Landry is a private pilot who keeps her plane at the Biddeford airport and stands firmly behind the facility and the FAA, saying that it is worth a lot more than people are making it out to be.
"The FAA is just doing its job. People need to understand that.Maybe it's expensive to run the airport. But it's a great resource. I know business people who fly in here all the time."
For the taxpayers, like Roland Pelletier who lives next to the airport, having to pay taxes on a property that is not used by the general public, however, in "times [that] are tough" is unreasonable.
"We can't afford to support operations that don't support themselves. These are tough times, and that's the time we need to be tough."
Paul Archambault is the chairman of an group called Shut Our Little Airport (SOLA) and has lived at the end of the runway for almost a quarter of a century. Of his group he says they are fighting for the taxpayers rights and out to make the community a better place.
"Look, we're not some bomb-throwing radicals; we're just concerned taxpayers looking out for the best interests of this great city and its wonderful citizens."
For the taxpayers the airport stands as a burden both financially and property wise while the airport staff stands by their facility saying it brings in around $56,000 per year from gas, taxes and various land leases.
With 47 planes, the airport is small and only worth 1.6 million dollars yet costs around $60,000 to keep it running annually. According to the Airport Authority and the FAA ( http://faa.gov) it will cost a whopping 3 million to close, almost double the airport's total worth.
"While it is a small airport there is a lot of fuel and things of that nature that we have to transport and dispose of which ups the cost considerably" says a spokesperson for the Airport Authority.
The FAA is concerned about the proximity of the airport to the surrounding homes and businesses after hearing an account of a plane grazing trees close to a home and has been cutting down trees to make more room on the runway.
"Safety is our number one priority, not profit. While we understand people may feel more exposed now there have been incidences of children playing on the runway and just an overall breach of security. It's the right thing to do for everyone involved."
The National Association for Small Airports (NASA) agrees, saying that this airport while small is still bringing in a considerable amount of profit for the community and is at a convenient location for many corporations.
" It's a great thing to have for the community like Pease International Airport http://www.peasedev.org/pease/airport.asp . We are willing to listen to all sides in this situation so we can find a solution that works for everyone."
Phyllis Landry is a private pilot who keeps her plane at the Biddeford airport and stands firmly behind the facility and the FAA, saying that it is worth a lot more than people are making it out to be.
"The FAA is just doing its job. People need to understand that.Maybe it's expensive to run the airport. But it's a great resource. I know business people who fly in here all the time."
For the taxpayers, like Roland Pelletier who lives next to the airport, having to pay taxes on a property that is not used by the general public, however, in "times [that] are tough" is unreasonable.
"We can't afford to support operations that don't support themselves. These are tough times, and that's the time we need to be tough."
Paul Archambault is the chairman of an group called Shut Our Little Airport (SOLA) and has lived at the end of the runway for almost a quarter of a century. Of his group he says they are fighting for the taxpayers rights and out to make the community a better place.
"Look, we're not some bomb-throwing radicals; we're just concerned taxpayers looking out for the best interests of this great city and its wonderful citizens."
California Prisons
WHAT?! They are letting prisoners go because they don't have the money to build new prisons and it is based on how much of a risk they are to others? No thanks.
Listen California, I know you guys are in major debt right now but I really don't think your prisons are where you want to cut back. These guys are in there for a reason and now they aren't serving their full terms and not because of good behavior but simply out of luck that you couldn't manage your spending habits?
Not cool. Not cool at all Schwarzenegger.
I get that prisons having a budget of $8 billion is excessive, especially since that puts them ahead of higher education, but for having that much money they don't seem to be doing much. Is it really not enough? The overcrowding seems out of control and something needs to be done but what? Whatever they do, I don't think this current solution of letting people go is it!
Listen California, I know you guys are in major debt right now but I really don't think your prisons are where you want to cut back. These guys are in there for a reason and now they aren't serving their full terms and not because of good behavior but simply out of luck that you couldn't manage your spending habits?
Not cool. Not cool at all Schwarzenegger.
I get that prisons having a budget of $8 billion is excessive, especially since that puts them ahead of higher education, but for having that much money they don't seem to be doing much. Is it really not enough? The overcrowding seems out of control and something needs to be done but what? Whatever they do, I don't think this current solution of letting people go is it!
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Could New Developments with Brain Research Lead to Improvements in Other Areas?
The business section today was really great because in addition to the articles being really interesting I found myself excited over an area of research I have never given much thought to: the brain.
Now don't misconstrue what I'm saying, of course I have thought about the brain, how it works, how it develops, heck I've even studied it in those dreaded general ed courses we all have to take. However, I have never actually thought about where further research of the brain could lead us as a society.
To give you a frame of reference- the following page after the brain article I found an interview with a man who had injured his spinal cord in a diving accident and as a result is severely handicapped. Thinking back to the brain article I began to wonder as they continue to understand the nerve pathways within our brain and find the various ways the brain communicates with the rest of our bodies maybe we could find a way in which we could manipulate those nerve pathways in instances of severe injuries such as the man in the article.
If we could do that then there could be a new addition to the recovery process and physical therapy. I guess you could say this idea goes hand in hand with a person's mood and energy greatly affecting the recovery process as well.
All in all VERY cool how far we are coming and for a geeky English major even cooler that it got me excited.
Now don't misconstrue what I'm saying, of course I have thought about the brain, how it works, how it develops, heck I've even studied it in those dreaded general ed courses we all have to take. However, I have never actually thought about where further research of the brain could lead us as a society.
To give you a frame of reference- the following page after the brain article I found an interview with a man who had injured his spinal cord in a diving accident and as a result is severely handicapped. Thinking back to the brain article I began to wonder as they continue to understand the nerve pathways within our brain and find the various ways the brain communicates with the rest of our bodies maybe we could find a way in which we could manipulate those nerve pathways in instances of severe injuries such as the man in the article.
If we could do that then there could be a new addition to the recovery process and physical therapy. I guess you could say this idea goes hand in hand with a person's mood and energy greatly affecting the recovery process as well.
All in all VERY cool how far we are coming and for a geeky English major even cooler that it got me excited.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Health Care Bill Got the Vote
For consumers it seems that the health care bill only will help a few select groups such as the poor, students and small businesses. While this seems disappointing in many regards what is even more unsettling to me is the Republican protest of the Democrats and Obama himself. There is such a protest with such cruel dialect going on and it makes me wonder if these are truly educated men leading this country or ignorant, power hungry, greedy balding middle-aged 'schlamuzels'.
March 18th paper post
Today's business section had an article on Amazon and all the new online restriction regarding sales that are coming into play.
It seems as though the days of free movies , music and books are over and we are stuck having to pay out of pocket at ridiculous rates for things that we really should be getting for free.
Why the sudden increase? Are the company execs really under that much pressure now? There was no explanation in the article and I was really disappointed with this...maybe someone can fill me in?
It seems as though the days of free movies , music and books are over and we are stuck having to pay out of pocket at ridiculous rates for things that we really should be getting for free.
Why the sudden increase? Are the company execs really under that much pressure now? There was no explanation in the article and I was really disappointed with this...maybe someone can fill me in?
March 17th paper post
Today my focus landed on the article concerning Pennsylvania's decision to double the cost of state administered health insurance which is intended to serve the poor community members who do not qualify for medicare.
I understand that everything is going up in cost but I'm sorry, if they cannot afford regular health insurance every month then these people will not be able to support their families and themselves with this increase.
This perhaps is my least favorite part of society and the progress of society, for the more progress we make the more costs go up in every area and the less is available to the average citizen. It is truly a horrible cycle.
I understand that everything is going up in cost but I'm sorry, if they cannot afford regular health insurance every month then these people will not be able to support their families and themselves with this increase.
This perhaps is my least favorite part of society and the progress of society, for the more progress we make the more costs go up in every area and the less is available to the average citizen. It is truly a horrible cycle.
March 16th paper Post
There was an article talking about Obama's popularity in Israel in today's paper and I was wondering if the journalist has ever chosen to educate themselves on the situation there? And by education I mean actually traveling to the Middle East and talking to everyone there...yea I get the feeling the answer would be a no.
Honestly, it is so ridiculous this fight, good people (the Israelis) just want to live and cultivate and prosper on the land that they have built up, they have formed into a highly functioning society, no one else. Yet the world pays attention to misled and misinformed media which seems to side with the Arab terrorist groups who have no mission besides reigning terror and killing all Jews (both of which they proudly declare day in, day out).
Back to the article- the journalist writes of Obama's lack of support in Israel- my response : well duhhhh.. common, the man is clearly not siding with Israel in the slightest, and wants to give up some of their land!
Honestly, it is so ridiculous this fight, good people (the Israelis) just want to live and cultivate and prosper on the land that they have built up, they have formed into a highly functioning society, no one else. Yet the world pays attention to misled and misinformed media which seems to side with the Arab terrorist groups who have no mission besides reigning terror and killing all Jews (both of which they proudly declare day in, day out).
Back to the article- the journalist writes of Obama's lack of support in Israel- my response : well duhhhh.. common, the man is clearly not siding with Israel in the slightest, and wants to give up some of their land!
March 15th posting
The sex scandal within the hierarchy of the Church has left people breathless from the start and not in a good way. Today's paper covered the recent news in Germany about the developments within the scandal and I wonder what this means for the Pope. No one seems to be clear, it is obvious that his position trumps all "inappropriate" instances and I think back to all the articles I have focused on thus far and it is clear that the hierarchy which people are so heavily criticizing, and rightly so, exists in our every day lives as well.
So taking this scandal from a different angle for a moment, in theory how can we break down an abusive and hierarchical environment that has existed for centuries when we live in one every day and do nothing about it
Food for thought?
So taking this scandal from a different angle for a moment, in theory how can we break down an abusive and hierarchical environment that has existed for centuries when we live in one every day and do nothing about it
Food for thought?
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Is it Absolutely Necessary?
On the front page today there was an article about the various technologies that are in police cruisers and other emergency vehicles.
They say it makes their job easier, but why must they access a dashboard full of technology while driving? I understand that have a computer on hand among other things allows for files to be brought up, driving records and criminal records alike.
However, there have been numerous crashes and not to mention it seems slightly hypocritical. How? Let's just think about how much police rely on the right to pull people over for driving while doing other things, whether that be reading, putting on makeup or talking on a cell phone. Granted- that kind of driving is ridiculous and a danger but if we can't do it why can they?
Is it really benefiting a high speed chase when they are going in and out of lanes? And how often is the average cop on a high speed chase?
Another piece that bothered me on the article was there was very little information on what specifically these computers and other things are being used for..just another abuse of power and position I suppose.
They say it makes their job easier, but why must they access a dashboard full of technology while driving? I understand that have a computer on hand among other things allows for files to be brought up, driving records and criminal records alike.
However, there have been numerous crashes and not to mention it seems slightly hypocritical. How? Let's just think about how much police rely on the right to pull people over for driving while doing other things, whether that be reading, putting on makeup or talking on a cell phone. Granted- that kind of driving is ridiculous and a danger but if we can't do it why can they?
Is it really benefiting a high speed chase when they are going in and out of lanes? And how often is the average cop on a high speed chase?
Another piece that bothered me on the article was there was very little information on what specifically these computers and other things are being used for..just another abuse of power and position I suppose.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Don't Stop Israel's Plans
I lived in Israel last year and while there the latest war broke out and I saw first hand what was really going on, not what the media portrayed.
Israel is a country the size of New Jersey and yet is possibly one of the most fought over pieces of land in the world.
What blows me away is this: Israeli citizens built everything in that country, from schools to stores to park benches. They even planted the trees. So why in the hell is it Palestinians property? In all honesty, the culture on their side of the Gaza strip is beyond negative as they are run by terrorist groups such as the Hezbollah. They have no interest in peace, in prosperity..only violence. And I have watched this go down, I have worked in the relief shelters and I have seen their true nature and I am disgusted that anyone could even consider giving them power over a country that was built and remains a country of people wanting to live, prosper and love.
In today's paper the front page showed Vice President Biden with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as they met to discuss both Israel's security and their plans to build more housing in East Jerusalem. Biden said that while America will protect Israel it will not support their plans to build.
With all do respect Mr. Vice President: that is their land to do with it as they please and if they want to build housing for law abiding citizens who do not support any terrorist group or cling to their seemingly mystifying power I say go for it.
Israel is a country the size of New Jersey and yet is possibly one of the most fought over pieces of land in the world.
What blows me away is this: Israeli citizens built everything in that country, from schools to stores to park benches. They even planted the trees. So why in the hell is it Palestinians property? In all honesty, the culture on their side of the Gaza strip is beyond negative as they are run by terrorist groups such as the Hezbollah. They have no interest in peace, in prosperity..only violence. And I have watched this go down, I have worked in the relief shelters and I have seen their true nature and I am disgusted that anyone could even consider giving them power over a country that was built and remains a country of people wanting to live, prosper and love.
In today's paper the front page showed Vice President Biden with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as they met to discuss both Israel's security and their plans to build more housing in East Jerusalem. Biden said that while America will protect Israel it will not support their plans to build.
With all do respect Mr. Vice President: that is their land to do with it as they please and if they want to build housing for law abiding citizens who do not support any terrorist group or cling to their seemingly mystifying power I say go for it.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
This is the Only Country That Treats Aging Itself Like a Disease
On the first page of the business section today there was an article on long-term care facilities and a couple things got me thinking:
First, the journalist, Alex Berenson writes that "the federal program spends almost $5 billion annually on the hospitals, providing about 60 percent of their total revenue". This was no shock, because in the history of hospitals federal funding has always been a huge asset to the institutions. However, that amount of money suggests that we as a nation see the care for ailing individuals or elderly as our duty and this is simply not the case.
We are perhaps the only country that treats our elderly as well..elderly. No matter where I travel, older generations are not only treated with a great amount of respect, they are revered as wise and valuable members of the community.
This is even reflected in how the elderly or ailing individuals are treated within these facilities. Many people would just assume to let people die out , despite recent scientific evidence that shows such individuals still have a ton of brain function.
My parents and I are already joking of the plantation I will have to buy in order to house all four of them in their own cottages. In my family at least, care, no matter the condition is expected and to not do so to the best of my ability would be shameful.
First, the journalist, Alex Berenson writes that "the federal program spends almost $5 billion annually on the hospitals, providing about 60 percent of their total revenue". This was no shock, because in the history of hospitals federal funding has always been a huge asset to the institutions. However, that amount of money suggests that we as a nation see the care for ailing individuals or elderly as our duty and this is simply not the case.
We are perhaps the only country that treats our elderly as well..elderly. No matter where I travel, older generations are not only treated with a great amount of respect, they are revered as wise and valuable members of the community.
This is even reflected in how the elderly or ailing individuals are treated within these facilities. Many people would just assume to let people die out , despite recent scientific evidence that shows such individuals still have a ton of brain function.
My parents and I are already joking of the plantation I will have to buy in order to house all four of them in their own cottages. In my family at least, care, no matter the condition is expected and to not do so to the best of my ability would be shameful.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Is Going Modern Really the Best Route?
Today's paper had an article about Africa, specifically looking at Kenya where some major advancements have been made in terms of resources being available and resources being used.
There is always criticism of work that is done overseas, there is always something that could be better. I hate to be considered as a writer who is beating a dead horse but I wonder if these advancements are truly advancements or they are taking away from a culture.
I don't mean to address the additional medical supplies, that of course is brilliant in my mind to have something like that. I truly believe so, as diseases in Africa tend to be violent and fast moving, taking more lives every day.
However, in the article there was talk about an increase in cell phone use in Kenya and various technologies like that get me nervous. For one thing I see what it has done to my life, I can't seem to do any work without either the TV on or Facebook open.
This may sound crazy but I think that there could be a very good reason why people lived for centuries without any technology outside of the fact they had no knowledge or perhaps the right tools: they just wanted to be, to live and no be affected by the outside world and there is definitely something to be said for that notion.
There is always criticism of work that is done overseas, there is always something that could be better. I hate to be considered as a writer who is beating a dead horse but I wonder if these advancements are truly advancements or they are taking away from a culture.
I don't mean to address the additional medical supplies, that of course is brilliant in my mind to have something like that. I truly believe so, as diseases in Africa tend to be violent and fast moving, taking more lives every day.
However, in the article there was talk about an increase in cell phone use in Kenya and various technologies like that get me nervous. For one thing I see what it has done to my life, I can't seem to do any work without either the TV on or Facebook open.
This may sound crazy but I think that there could be a very good reason why people lived for centuries without any technology outside of the fact they had no knowledge or perhaps the right tools: they just wanted to be, to live and no be affected by the outside world and there is definitely something to be said for that notion.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Excuse Me Doctor, My Robot Parts Are Breaking Down
"When New Hips Go Bad"- front page of the business section ..WHOA
First off this is just another excuse for me to get on top of my soap box and talk about how overpaid and over trusted doctors and nurses are. They are supposed to be the experts, the people that as they cut into our bodies or pump things into our system via IVs know exactly what they are doing.
Yet here we are with a story that seems to be highlighting a frequented occurrence: implants gone array. A man who went in for surgery to help with his hip problems came out with a "metal on metal" implant that is shedding debris in his body.
I don't know about you but I know countless people that have some type of metal in them from surgeries much like this one and in addition to being held up in security check points after setting off the high pitched metal detectors they have all had complications due to the metal or screws being in their bodies.
Is there an alternative? Is there research being done to find one? I hope so because it seems to be a ridiculous problem to have considering we are in an age of great medical and technological advancement.
Are we robots or humans?
First off this is just another excuse for me to get on top of my soap box and talk about how overpaid and over trusted doctors and nurses are. They are supposed to be the experts, the people that as they cut into our bodies or pump things into our system via IVs know exactly what they are doing.
Yet here we are with a story that seems to be highlighting a frequented occurrence: implants gone array. A man who went in for surgery to help with his hip problems came out with a "metal on metal" implant that is shedding debris in his body.
I don't know about you but I know countless people that have some type of metal in them from surgeries much like this one and in addition to being held up in security check points after setting off the high pitched metal detectors they have all had complications due to the metal or screws being in their bodies.
Is there an alternative? Is there research being done to find one? I hope so because it seems to be a ridiculous problem to have considering we are in an age of great medical and technological advancement.
Are we robots or humans?
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Chug-a-Lug : The Scoop on College Drinking
The Exchange, a program run on NHPR News recently ran a story on college students and under aged drinking where two New Hampshire administrators gave two sides to what many call a growing issue in the collegiate world.
Anne Lawing, the Dean of Students at the University of New Hampshire Durham campus, says that alcohol is a huge problem on college campuses and is nothing new. "Students have been drinking as long we've had students."
The national numbers are staggering on this issue. As of 2009 1,700 student deaths occur every year due to alcohol related reasons. In addition there are over 600,000 college students that are hurt in some way every year in alcohol related assaults.
These numbers reflect the additional problems, according to Lawing, such as missing classes or dropping out of school all together. "In the past 20-25 years efforts have really stepped up as we've become more and more aware of issues such as kids missing classes, assaults (both physical and sexual) and dropping out."
Sheila Lambart, the Coordinator of Wellness at Southern New Hampshire University, looks at surveys coming out and thinks people are dwelling on a problem that is not really there, "The majority of students in NH in a 2009 survey taken reported drinking four or fewer drinks per week."
Lambart's work has been centered around educating college students on the facts of drinking and the risks that are out there. Rather than involving campuses in operations such as sting operations suggested by the police, Lambart has faith in the committees which are coming together to deal with any issues within the individual communities. "New Hampshire committees work in collaboration with each other to address issues on our campuses and in our state."
Anne Lawing, the Dean of Students at the University of New Hampshire Durham campus, says that alcohol is a huge problem on college campuses and is nothing new. "Students have been drinking as long we've had students."
The national numbers are staggering on this issue. As of 2009 1,700 student deaths occur every year due to alcohol related reasons. In addition there are over 600,000 college students that are hurt in some way every year in alcohol related assaults.
These numbers reflect the additional problems, according to Lawing, such as missing classes or dropping out of school all together. "In the past 20-25 years efforts have really stepped up as we've become more and more aware of issues such as kids missing classes, assaults (both physical and sexual) and dropping out."
Sheila Lambart, the Coordinator of Wellness at Southern New Hampshire University, looks at surveys coming out and thinks people are dwelling on a problem that is not really there, "The majority of students in NH in a 2009 survey taken reported drinking four or fewer drinks per week."
Lambart's work has been centered around educating college students on the facts of drinking and the risks that are out there. Rather than involving campuses in operations such as sting operations suggested by the police, Lambart has faith in the committees which are coming together to deal with any issues within the individual communities. "New Hampshire committees work in collaboration with each other to address issues on our campuses and in our state."
India's Corruption
Today's paper led me to one place : "Abuse Case Rouses India's Middle Class to Take On the Powerful"
In the article the story of Ruchick Girotra who was a promising tennis player of 14 and was molested by a senior police official who also held the position of president of the state lawn tennis club. She threatened to press charges but was harassed so much that she committed suicide and her family is still scrutinized.
This story of people taking advantage of their power happens every day in every country around the world and it so revolting that higher ups protect other higher ups because it seems once you reach a certain level you can do no wrong.
I don't understand how people can take advantage of innocent children, children that don't know if someone will believe them if they talk, that don't know if the threats of death from their abuser are real if they talk. It truly breaks my heart to read something like this.
I'm so glad attention is being brought to such corruption and I hope it starts a series of events that will put these despicable human beings behind bars for life.
In the article the story of Ruchick Girotra who was a promising tennis player of 14 and was molested by a senior police official who also held the position of president of the state lawn tennis club. She threatened to press charges but was harassed so much that she committed suicide and her family is still scrutinized.
This story of people taking advantage of their power happens every day in every country around the world and it so revolting that higher ups protect other higher ups because it seems once you reach a certain level you can do no wrong.
I don't understand how people can take advantage of innocent children, children that don't know if someone will believe them if they talk, that don't know if the threats of death from their abuser are real if they talk. It truly breaks my heart to read something like this.
I'm so glad attention is being brought to such corruption and I hope it starts a series of events that will put these despicable human beings behind bars for life.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
A Sad Day for NY Residents
My attention today was immediately directed to the right column on the first page : "Patterson is Said to Direct Aides in Abuse Case"...
Should I be surprised that yet another politician is corrupt? Probably not. Should I be surprised that money and power can get you out of a horrible crime? Again, probably not. However, I am continuously surprised by the lack of conscience present in cases like these and the lengths people will go to in order to cover their tracks.
Governor David A. Paterson is caught in the act of pressuring the two women who brought up assault charges on the governor's aid. Excuse me? Are we still operating on the 1950's complex where the man is always right?
All I could think about while reading this was Governor Deval Patrick, being from Massachusetts. He has so much to do with so much Mass residents daily lives, behind the scenes in so many policies and bills and we all put our trust in him to do this job to the best of his ability. These people that we trust to make our lives better could so easily make them worse, as Paterson has so "generously" shown us. Sickening.
Should I be surprised that yet another politician is corrupt? Probably not. Should I be surprised that money and power can get you out of a horrible crime? Again, probably not. However, I am continuously surprised by the lack of conscience present in cases like these and the lengths people will go to in order to cover their tracks.
Governor David A. Paterson is caught in the act of pressuring the two women who brought up assault charges on the governor's aid. Excuse me? Are we still operating on the 1950's complex where the man is always right?
All I could think about while reading this was Governor Deval Patrick, being from Massachusetts. He has so much to do with so much Mass residents daily lives, behind the scenes in so many policies and bills and we all put our trust in him to do this job to the best of his ability. These people that we trust to make our lives better could so easily make them worse, as Paterson has so "generously" shown us. Sickening.
Monday, March 1, 2010
One More Way for Pro-Lifer's to Gain Control
Today's paper was filled with interesting and often even jaw dropping stories. The article "Under Utah Legislation, Seeking Illegal Abortion Would Become a Crime", however, was of most interest for me.
It discusses Utah legislation, specifically Bill 12, in which if passed Utah would have the power to criminalize any attempt of an illegal abortion. This is stemming from a case in Utah where a 17-year-old girl payed a man $150 to beat her in order to abort her 7-month-old fetus. While the baby survived, the man went to jail and the girl inspired legal action.
Let's start with the issue of abortion...I think that many women are in situations, such as they are either way too young or in an abusive relationship , and having a baby would not do themselves or their growing fetus any good, in fact it would only do more harm.
I can't say what I would do personally if I was with child but I do know that I believe such an option is a woman's right as it is their body and their life.
The issue with illegal abortion in my mind is an extremely sticky issue. My reason being that of course no one supports someone purposely harming themselves and their fetus rather than going about it legally with a certified doctor. However, this give people a huge loop hole as to what people can say qualifies as intent on the mother's part.
For example the NY Times brings up a story of a woman who fell down the stairs while pregnant and in passing to an EMT she said she didn't know if she really wanted the baby anymore, more out of fear than anything else. And while she didn't miscarry right after the incident she was taken to jail where she spent two days before being released and having charges dropped.
Women, if convicted, will get a lifetime sentence, which in instances like those above is ridiculous. If someone has an assumption about the woman, then a case is brought up, and in most instances a great amount of evidence won't be needed, in fact it could all be based on speculation.
I see both sides to this bill, but I see it doing more harm than good in the long run..I hope it doesn't pass.
It discusses Utah legislation, specifically Bill 12, in which if passed Utah would have the power to criminalize any attempt of an illegal abortion. This is stemming from a case in Utah where a 17-year-old girl payed a man $150 to beat her in order to abort her 7-month-old fetus. While the baby survived, the man went to jail and the girl inspired legal action.
Let's start with the issue of abortion...I think that many women are in situations, such as they are either way too young or in an abusive relationship , and having a baby would not do themselves or their growing fetus any good, in fact it would only do more harm.
I can't say what I would do personally if I was with child but I do know that I believe such an option is a woman's right as it is their body and their life.
The issue with illegal abortion in my mind is an extremely sticky issue. My reason being that of course no one supports someone purposely harming themselves and their fetus rather than going about it legally with a certified doctor. However, this give people a huge loop hole as to what people can say qualifies as intent on the mother's part.
For example the NY Times brings up a story of a woman who fell down the stairs while pregnant and in passing to an EMT she said she didn't know if she really wanted the baby anymore, more out of fear than anything else. And while she didn't miscarry right after the incident she was taken to jail where she spent two days before being released and having charges dropped.
Women, if convicted, will get a lifetime sentence, which in instances like those above is ridiculous. If someone has an assumption about the woman, then a case is brought up, and in most instances a great amount of evidence won't be needed, in fact it could all be based on speculation.
I see both sides to this bill, but I see it doing more harm than good in the long run..I hope it doesn't pass.
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