For me, my friend’s girlfriend being decapitated by a drunk driver as she was walking home from the store had quite an impact on the decision to not drink. I never cared to try it when I was younger and up until and after her death I never cared to and continued to enjoy being a trustworthy friend to call in case of a need for a designated driver. I am 28 and the best drugs I have had are Codeine and Vicodin under a doctor’s prescription. Aside from that, I have not tried a street drug, alcohol, nor smoked. Most 28 year olds cannot say that.
In our society it is deemed wrong to engage in such activities. I see limited issues of this nature in European nations. I believe there are uses for these items in private and semi-private atmospheres. Use of marijuana in the home I do not have a problem with. Otherwise it should be treated like alcohol. Use of alcohol in the settings it is currently used in should be perfectly fine. I believe that laws are taking away personal responsibility for these substances. In Nevada it is perfectly legal to walk around town with an open container. In California you’d be arrested. The standard of responsibility is higher with the individual in Nevada than it is in California. Here it is dictated what can and cannot be done and you follow the law accordingly. Other drugs such as Meth and Heroine have no real use other than altering brain function and chemicals.
The difference between use and abuse is ingesting the substance moderately as opposed to ingesting a substance chronically. A glass of wine with dinner or a shot of bourbon before bed is healthy according to many doctors. Using wine or bourbon as an escape from problems is unhealthy.
Interestingly enough, last year I wrote a resolution for the issue of marijuana use in the US. Maybe one day I will submit it to be considered for Federal law. I call it ATM-420 (Alcohol, Tobacco, Marijuana).
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Factors Determining Care of Mental Health Consumers
This topic can get very touchy. While I respect and encourage people to use their rights responsibly (the “just because you can, doesn’t mean you should” kind of philosophy), I must insist that once people become a menace (meant in the kindest way) or hazard to those around them their rights should be nullified by next-of-kin. If there is no next-of-kin I do NOT believe that the government should be able to force someone into care unless they have endangered someone’s well-being/safety or committed a crime as is current law.
Simply “having” a mental illness does not denote a public safety risk. Many do not even realize they have an illness until it strongly manifests itself and others become aware of it. If the government were to be able to place people they “feel” had an illness in an institution think of the abuse of power that would come of it. The government works for us, not the other way around and a mentally ill person is still a rights-bearing citizen.
The issue with law is where do lawmakers and even families draw the line as to what classifies a person incompetent to make rational decisions? Some people disbelieve in modern medicine while their family members swear by it. Should a family be able to force this treatment on them regardless of how they feel about it? This also casts a shadow on the question of life v. death.
Why is the need to live so great? Why is death frowned upon? Many have argued against capitol punishment due to the belief that we have no right to take another’s life. Well on the flip side, do doctors (or anyone for that matter) have the right to keep someone alive? Who’s right to life or death is it?
For myself, I will choose to life as long as I can until I can’t bear it anymore and I will choose at that point where to go. Until then, it is nature’s choice what happens to me.
Simply “having” a mental illness does not denote a public safety risk. Many do not even realize they have an illness until it strongly manifests itself and others become aware of it. If the government were to be able to place people they “feel” had an illness in an institution think of the abuse of power that would come of it. The government works for us, not the other way around and a mentally ill person is still a rights-bearing citizen.
The issue with law is where do lawmakers and even families draw the line as to what classifies a person incompetent to make rational decisions? Some people disbelieve in modern medicine while their family members swear by it. Should a family be able to force this treatment on them regardless of how they feel about it? This also casts a shadow on the question of life v. death.
Why is the need to live so great? Why is death frowned upon? Many have argued against capitol punishment due to the belief that we have no right to take another’s life. Well on the flip side, do doctors (or anyone for that matter) have the right to keep someone alive? Who’s right to life or death is it?
For myself, I will choose to life as long as I can until I can’t bear it anymore and I will choose at that point where to go. Until then, it is nature’s choice what happens to me.
Elderly Issues
There are numerous issues for the elderly. They are near the end of life and would like to know if their life had meaning. They want to be able to spend their last moments with those they are closest to. They reflect on their life and try to make sense of the nonsense. Health and positive mental states are fading. They (like most people in any stage) fear death. They want to know they have a legacy to be proud of not just behind them, but ahead of them through those that survive them.
Creative solutions are easy. Keep them active. Always have a sense of humor and employ it often. Always remember K.I.S.S! (Keep It Simple, Stupid!). Simplicity is keeping and holding conversations relative to them and that they are familiar with. Having grand children and great grand children write letters, stories and draw pictures for them are the moments that will fill their hearts with gladness and bring joyful tears to their eyes. My daughter had this relationship with her great grandfather before he died. They had a special connection. She still cries for him especially when she does something wrong, as if he would be angry with her for any transgression. Not likely.
Creative solutions are easy. Keep them active. Always have a sense of humor and employ it often. Always remember K.I.S.S! (Keep It Simple, Stupid!). Simplicity is keeping and holding conversations relative to them and that they are familiar with. Having grand children and great grand children write letters, stories and draw pictures for them are the moments that will fill their hearts with gladness and bring joyful tears to their eyes. My daughter had this relationship with her great grandfather before he died. They had a special connection. She still cries for him especially when she does something wrong, as if he would be angry with her for any transgression. Not likely.
Milestones MHF in Weaverville, California
Field Project
I was debating a great deal on where to attend for this project. Since I have lived in Redding for only a short while I am not too familiar with the area. There are numerous mental health locations where I am from in the Bay. I finally decided on Milestones to better acquaint myself with the area and services it provides.
While attending Milestones I noted that the staff and consumers were friendly, informative and quite supportive of one another. The walls were covered with supportive posters, past local projects and art and tables had a variety of magazines and literature. There is a flat screen TV with DVD player for renting movies and a large sofa to relax and socialize.
One wall poster read:
10 Ways to Beat Stress Before it Beats You
Adopt a healthy lifestyle
Don’t over commit
Simplify your life
Learn to relax
Resolve conflicts
Be physically active
Be good to yourself
Feed emotional life
Keep balance in your life
Master one big change at a time
I believe that the vast majority of the consumers at Milestones are going through these motions.
Milestones is an outpatient clinic in Weaverville, Ca. The cost of the services is free. Donations of clothing, blankets and other household items are always accepted. There are a variety of therapies available as well. Primary forms are group and individual therapies – all peer-based. While they do not specialize in a specific 12-step program, Milestones’ Recovery (consumer) Model setup is based off of the 12-step program. Some consumers have been there for years, others a short time and some stop by for a break or information in their travels. The Recovery Model Motto is “Nothing about us without us.”
Milestones utilizes the Recovery Model of mental health in that it emphasizes and supports each individual's potential for recovery. Recovery is seen within the model as a personal journey and that journey is supported through peer support.
For privacy reasons I will refrain from using consumers’ names. One consumer jokingly remarked that he “feels right at home because everyone [here] is crazy.”
Another consumer said that “you are accepted as you are.” She goes on to say that people come and “read, socialize, sit…just a family.”
Other free services provided are free lunches, resume assistance, computer and cooking classes, life skills groups, local activities and local outreach through the MOST (Milestones Outreach Support Training) program at Alpine House where clinical assessments are given. The services provided are more than listed.
Consumers are involved in the planning process. They organize and implement the Milestones Board of Directors. Activities and classes are offered by and for consumers. There is a great eight-week Wellness and Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) class followed by a WRAP support group.
There are no certified therapists on staff, but all those on staff have had personal experience in the area of mental health. The staff is to facilitate groups, not diagnose - They assess people for the best treatment path. They do, however, identify those 18 and older with mental disorders from alcoholism to chronic illness. Another group that utilized the facility is AODS that helps with alcohol and drug abuse.
People of all ages, etc are served at Milestones from small children, to transition-aged youth to older adults.
They practice “errorless learning” – learning for the sake of learning. Dealing with people instead of “professionals” who many consumers feel try to make “mountains out of molehills.”
Funding is provided by a 1% tax on individuals making $1 million or more annually through the Mental Health and Services Act (MHSA) of California, passed in 2004, specifically created to assist people in mental health facilities.
The MHSA mandates that all programs funded through the act must be: client-centered and family focused, based on wellness and recovery principles, be culturally and linguistically competent, and provide an integrated service system.
It was said by a staff member that the annual operating cost of $6,000 was derived solely from the MHSA. Some of the staff is contracted by the county, but as a contractor they do not get paid over their allotted hours.
I feel that the services provided are fantastic on such a modest budget (understatement of the year award). I have an issue with the MHSA, which has nothing to do with Milestones itself, and it is simply on moral and basic funding grounds. Why discriminate others from the millionaires? Sure the wealthy can “afford “ it but why not put the 1% tax on everyone as it is the average “everyone” that will be utilizing the service? That will maximize revenue and is a fair tax. Personally I feel better utilizing something knowing I helped pay for it. Again, it is a political issue, not a milestones issue.
I enjoyed seeing the vast garden in the back of the facility. Gardening is relaxing and cultivates a sense of need and a desire to serve. The friendly atmosphere and “frank” speaking is reassuring that these people are just people; they are not trying to figure you out or do anything more than what you are comfortable with. It is hard to find that in most places of society. It is comforting seeing such a community.
At no time did I feel uncomfortable nor did I ever feel that any consumer/staff member was insincere or claiming something that was not fact. The side commentary was often humorous and informative itself. It gave insight to peoples’ personalities and character. I would recommend this program to anyone in search of a path to recovery.
I was debating a great deal on where to attend for this project. Since I have lived in Redding for only a short while I am not too familiar with the area. There are numerous mental health locations where I am from in the Bay. I finally decided on Milestones to better acquaint myself with the area and services it provides.
While attending Milestones I noted that the staff and consumers were friendly, informative and quite supportive of one another. The walls were covered with supportive posters, past local projects and art and tables had a variety of magazines and literature. There is a flat screen TV with DVD player for renting movies and a large sofa to relax and socialize.
One wall poster read:
10 Ways to Beat Stress Before it Beats You
Adopt a healthy lifestyle
Don’t over commit
Simplify your life
Learn to relax
Resolve conflicts
Be physically active
Be good to yourself
Feed emotional life
Keep balance in your life
Master one big change at a time
I believe that the vast majority of the consumers at Milestones are going through these motions.
Milestones is an outpatient clinic in Weaverville, Ca. The cost of the services is free. Donations of clothing, blankets and other household items are always accepted. There are a variety of therapies available as well. Primary forms are group and individual therapies – all peer-based. While they do not specialize in a specific 12-step program, Milestones’ Recovery (consumer) Model setup is based off of the 12-step program. Some consumers have been there for years, others a short time and some stop by for a break or information in their travels. The Recovery Model Motto is “Nothing about us without us.”
Milestones utilizes the Recovery Model of mental health in that it emphasizes and supports each individual's potential for recovery. Recovery is seen within the model as a personal journey and that journey is supported through peer support.
For privacy reasons I will refrain from using consumers’ names. One consumer jokingly remarked that he “feels right at home because everyone [here] is crazy.”
Another consumer said that “you are accepted as you are.” She goes on to say that people come and “read, socialize, sit…just a family.”
Other free services provided are free lunches, resume assistance, computer and cooking classes, life skills groups, local activities and local outreach through the MOST (Milestones Outreach Support Training) program at Alpine House where clinical assessments are given. The services provided are more than listed.
Consumers are involved in the planning process. They organize and implement the Milestones Board of Directors. Activities and classes are offered by and for consumers. There is a great eight-week Wellness and Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) class followed by a WRAP support group.
There are no certified therapists on staff, but all those on staff have had personal experience in the area of mental health. The staff is to facilitate groups, not diagnose - They assess people for the best treatment path. They do, however, identify those 18 and older with mental disorders from alcoholism to chronic illness. Another group that utilized the facility is AODS that helps with alcohol and drug abuse.
People of all ages, etc are served at Milestones from small children, to transition-aged youth to older adults.
They practice “errorless learning” – learning for the sake of learning. Dealing with people instead of “professionals” who many consumers feel try to make “mountains out of molehills.”
Funding is provided by a 1% tax on individuals making $1 million or more annually through the Mental Health and Services Act (MHSA) of California, passed in 2004, specifically created to assist people in mental health facilities.
The MHSA mandates that all programs funded through the act must be: client-centered and family focused, based on wellness and recovery principles, be culturally and linguistically competent, and provide an integrated service system.
It was said by a staff member that the annual operating cost of $6,000 was derived solely from the MHSA. Some of the staff is contracted by the county, but as a contractor they do not get paid over their allotted hours.
I feel that the services provided are fantastic on such a modest budget (understatement of the year award). I have an issue with the MHSA, which has nothing to do with Milestones itself, and it is simply on moral and basic funding grounds. Why discriminate others from the millionaires? Sure the wealthy can “afford “ it but why not put the 1% tax on everyone as it is the average “everyone” that will be utilizing the service? That will maximize revenue and is a fair tax. Personally I feel better utilizing something knowing I helped pay for it. Again, it is a political issue, not a milestones issue.
I enjoyed seeing the vast garden in the back of the facility. Gardening is relaxing and cultivates a sense of need and a desire to serve. The friendly atmosphere and “frank” speaking is reassuring that these people are just people; they are not trying to figure you out or do anything more than what you are comfortable with. It is hard to find that in most places of society. It is comforting seeing such a community.
At no time did I feel uncomfortable nor did I ever feel that any consumer/staff member was insincere or claiming something that was not fact. The side commentary was often humorous and informative itself. It gave insight to peoples’ personalities and character. I would recommend this program to anyone in search of a path to recovery.
Usama bin Laden: CHECKMATE!
“We may feel better about the manhunt ending. There is always something new in the wind.”
- David Stewart, Student
“There will be mixed feelings from the international community. But I think we did it in the right way.”
- Joel Nakatani, Student
"He was a horrible person, but it is good we treated him respectfully. Two wrongs don't make a right."
- Teresa Craig, Student
May 1st, 2011 will be long-remembered as the day the notorious mass murderer Usama bin Laden was killed.
Usama orchestrated the World Trade Center and Pentagon attacks on September 11th, 2001 as well as many other atrocities throughout the world.
“Usama’s death boosted the morale of Americans definitely. It brings closure to people in New York and Washington,” says Joel Nakatani, student at Shasta College.
A squad sized element of 25 Navy SEALs supported by Army Chinook and Blackhawk helicopters infiltrated Usama’s compound in Abbotabad, Pakistan, 35 miles north of the capitol Islamabad.
Nakatani goes on to say that “Foreign relations are definitely going to be nixed - some countries are going to agree and some aren’t.”
The raid on the compound lasted only 40 minutes with no loss of American lives.
In President Obama’s address to the nation on the evening of May 1st he said, “Yet his death does not mark the end of our effort. There’s no doubt that Al-Qaeda will continue to pursue attacks against us. We must –- and we will -- remain vigilant at home and abroad. We’ve disrupted terrorist attacks and strengthened our homeland defense.”
Usama’s body was secured and brought aboard a U.S. aircraft carrier for a 45-minute Islamic ceremony including a eulogy translated into Arabic, though, according to Usama himself is not Islamic.
"Justice has been done," says President Obama.
The CIA had been hunting a well-trusted courier of Usama’s for four-and-a-half years.
The dedication to surveillance and even the controversial interrogation techniques used to get the name and location of the courier were essential in the execution of the mission.
Families of 9/11 victims spoke out with great joy and sorrow.
Lee Ielpi, who’s son was among the first firefighters in the WTC had this to say:
“I cried. I looked up and said they got him.”
President Obama decided Wednesday that he would not authorize the release of the photos of bin Laden’s corpse citing that it would not be beneficial due to the graphic nature of the images and may incite further retaliation by extremists.
Former President George W. Bush stated that "The fight against terror goes on, but tonight America has sent an unmistakable message: No matter how long it takes, justice will be done."
The U.S. supplies Pakistan with over $1.5 billion per year.
Some find it quite strange that Pakistani intelligence could not detect Usama’s presence in this military stronghold.
"People were skeptical in this neighborhood about this place and these guys. They used to gossip, say they were smugglers or drug dealers. People would complain that even with such a big house they didn't invite the poor or distribute charity," said Mashood Khan, a 45-year-old farmer in an AP interview.
Shasta College student David Stewart says that “I’m not sure that the U.S. will benefit from his death. When one leader falls, one will always rise to take the position.”
When former President Bush was reading a story to children at Emma E. Booker Elementary School in Sarasota, Florida he waited ten minutes to finish the story to react to the news.
"Today, when we talk about 9/11 in class and you hear kids make mistakes about what happened with the President that day, I can tell them they're wrong. Because I was there," says Chantal Guerrero, now 16.
"I think he was trying to keep everybody calm, starting with us."
Many in Pakistan are outraged at the raid and death of bin Laden.
Pakistani officials call this “A threat to international peace and security.”
CIA Director Leon Panetta said “Either they’re involved or incompetent.”
In Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Khaled Hathal Abdullah al-Atifi al-Qahtani, an Al-Qaeda member, is said to be the first to surrender since Usama’s death.
According to the F.B.I.'s Most Wanted list, the proper spelling of his name is "Usama."
Safety and Courtesy Harbor Happiness
We all know that it can get crazy out in the parking lot at Shasta College. People can get impatient, jaded, and even cruel.
Here are a few tips to help make it safe for both students and staff not just in the lots here at Shasta, but wherever you go.
Do not use the bus lane for dropping off or picking up students.
Do not block the bus lane. Buses are large and have many blind spots and parking unsafely (also illegally) can cause a wreck.
Keep an eye out for students as you drive through the parking lot. Many students are in a hurry to get to class or an appointment and are often distracted.
Check behind you thoroughly before backing up.
Keep cell phone use in your car limited to being parked to remain alert.
Numerous accidents and near-misses have occurred this semester due to cell phone use by drivers as well as pedestrians.
It is also illegal in California under California Senate Bill 1613 to use a cell phone in a car while driving without a hands-free device.
Violators are subject to a measly $20 fine for the first offense and $50 for each recurring offense.
The bill states that there exceptions for calls to “law enforcement agencies for emergency purposes, or emergency services personnel while operating an authorized emergency vehicle.”
Please do not block someone who has pulled into a parking space and is trying to back out. If you have blocked someone, please make sure you move to allow them out of the spot when needed.
If you see someone with their turn signal on waiting on a person to back out of a spot do not attempt to steal the spot.
This happened to me a few weeks back and it really ticked me off.
We exchanged words, kindly at first and let’s just say it didn’t end well conversationally.
Fortunately I have restraint. I left and found another spot which did make me late to class. Thank you for that!
Having heated words brings us to retaliation and road rage!
Do NOT engage in such behavior!
If being late for class and someone being discourteous is enough to ruin the day, or at minimum, the moment, imagine how your life will be when you lose your license, car towed and possible jail time… depending on the severity of the retaliation.
You will be in a world of hurt and then you still have to finish school somehow.
Littering is also illegal and dangerous, especially when it is a cigarette butt.
The embers can and do cause a plethora of brush and forest fires annually throughout the nation.
California, as usual, will be especially dry in the Summer.
Speeding in the parking lot is always dangerous.
The many vehicles scattered throughout the lots make it difficult to see lower vehicles and pedestrians.
Staff parking is for staff members only.
Emergency parking is for emergency vehicles only.
Handicap parking is for handicap-labeled vehicles only.
No parking means NO PARKING!
If you see someone who seems to be in a hurry and you have some extra time to spare, yield to them and give them the right of way.
Being courteous is always appreciated if they let you know or not.
If someone is courteous to you, be courteous back and thank them with a simple hand gesture… one with ALL of your fingers up and together.
Spread some positive energy about the area.
As you go about your day search for one act of courtesy that you can do to brighten someone’s day.
The smaller things seem to matter more.
Men, we live in an “enlightened nation,” but holding a door open for a woman is one of the simplest gestures you can do to encourage happiness.
Women, we are not so “enlightened” that we need to forget a simple “thank you” for a door being opened for you.
The simple things in life are what make life really worth living for.
Go live!
Here are a few tips to help make it safe for both students and staff not just in the lots here at Shasta, but wherever you go.
Do not use the bus lane for dropping off or picking up students.
Do not block the bus lane. Buses are large and have many blind spots and parking unsafely (also illegally) can cause a wreck.
Keep an eye out for students as you drive through the parking lot. Many students are in a hurry to get to class or an appointment and are often distracted.
Check behind you thoroughly before backing up.
Keep cell phone use in your car limited to being parked to remain alert.
Numerous accidents and near-misses have occurred this semester due to cell phone use by drivers as well as pedestrians.
It is also illegal in California under California Senate Bill 1613 to use a cell phone in a car while driving without a hands-free device.
Violators are subject to a measly $20 fine for the first offense and $50 for each recurring offense.
The bill states that there exceptions for calls to “law enforcement agencies for emergency purposes, or emergency services personnel while operating an authorized emergency vehicle.”
Please do not block someone who has pulled into a parking space and is trying to back out. If you have blocked someone, please make sure you move to allow them out of the spot when needed.
If you see someone with their turn signal on waiting on a person to back out of a spot do not attempt to steal the spot.
This happened to me a few weeks back and it really ticked me off.
We exchanged words, kindly at first and let’s just say it didn’t end well conversationally.
Fortunately I have restraint. I left and found another spot which did make me late to class. Thank you for that!
Having heated words brings us to retaliation and road rage!
Do NOT engage in such behavior!
If being late for class and someone being discourteous is enough to ruin the day, or at minimum, the moment, imagine how your life will be when you lose your license, car towed and possible jail time… depending on the severity of the retaliation.
You will be in a world of hurt and then you still have to finish school somehow.
Littering is also illegal and dangerous, especially when it is a cigarette butt.
The embers can and do cause a plethora of brush and forest fires annually throughout the nation.
California, as usual, will be especially dry in the Summer.
Speeding in the parking lot is always dangerous.
The many vehicles scattered throughout the lots make it difficult to see lower vehicles and pedestrians.
Staff parking is for staff members only.
Emergency parking is for emergency vehicles only.
Handicap parking is for handicap-labeled vehicles only.
No parking means NO PARKING!
If you see someone who seems to be in a hurry and you have some extra time to spare, yield to them and give them the right of way.
Being courteous is always appreciated if they let you know or not.
If someone is courteous to you, be courteous back and thank them with a simple hand gesture… one with ALL of your fingers up and together.
Spread some positive energy about the area.
As you go about your day search for one act of courtesy that you can do to brighten someone’s day.
The smaller things seem to matter more.
Men, we live in an “enlightened nation,” but holding a door open for a woman is one of the simplest gestures you can do to encourage happiness.
Women, we are not so “enlightened” that we need to forget a simple “thank you” for a door being opened for you.
The simple things in life are what make life really worth living for.
Go live!
Shasta College Construction Club
The Construction and Contractor’s Club of Shasta College is recruiting members to strengthen the group.
The club was approved Friday, April 15th by the student senate.
The Association of General Contractors of California, or AGC is the parent company of this student chapter.
Currently the club has over 16 members and is looking to expand to a minimum of 25 members to solidify its structure and place in the local area and school.
While the club is funded by the AGC, sponsors are welcome.
An AGC meeting will be held on April 29th at 7:00 p.m.
A primary focus of the club is community service and volunteer work.
Club members recently volunteered on the farm at Shasta College with the Art and Welding Clubs.
Two semesters ago, before it was the Contractor’s Club, it was the Equipment Club.
The Equipment Club assisted in building an add-on playground to Kids’ Kingdom and participated in the Nelson Creek Dam removal.
The doors are “open to students and anyone” and “not necessarily enrolled” at Shasta College says Frost.
Frost is also looking at the possibility of scholarships, job fairs, and child involvement in the club and even high school recruitment.
The Construction Club is looking for various construction and meeting sites outside of the classroom environment.
In recent years enrollment in contractor/construction classes has dropped dramatically.
Frost and Vice President Chris Ray are currently talking with the city for possible construction of a new park.
Club members will be attending the Clubs Awards Banquet on April 28th at the Farm and the Fish Derby on May 21st at Shasta Lake if anyone is interested in participating.
Sheds the club has already constructed are for sale.
Shed prices and sizes vary.
The club is available for independent projects in the local area if the need arises.
The Contractor’s Club is located in the 2600 building, room 2608 and meets Tuesdays 12:30 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Website construction is underway for the club.
Those interested in construction or volunteer wok should contact club president Troy Frost at (530) 604-4316 or vice president Chris Ray at (530) 921-4350.
The club was approved Friday, April 15th by the student senate.
The Association of General Contractors of California, or AGC is the parent company of this student chapter.
Currently the club has over 16 members and is looking to expand to a minimum of 25 members to solidify its structure and place in the local area and school.
While the club is funded by the AGC, sponsors are welcome.
An AGC meeting will be held on April 29th at 7:00 p.m.
A primary focus of the club is community service and volunteer work.
Club members recently volunteered on the farm at Shasta College with the Art and Welding Clubs.
Two semesters ago, before it was the Contractor’s Club, it was the Equipment Club.
The Equipment Club assisted in building an add-on playground to Kids’ Kingdom and participated in the Nelson Creek Dam removal.
The doors are “open to students and anyone” and “not necessarily enrolled” at Shasta College says Frost.
Frost is also looking at the possibility of scholarships, job fairs, and child involvement in the club and even high school recruitment.
The Construction Club is looking for various construction and meeting sites outside of the classroom environment.
In recent years enrollment in contractor/construction classes has dropped dramatically.
Frost and Vice President Chris Ray are currently talking with the city for possible construction of a new park.
Club members will be attending the Clubs Awards Banquet on April 28th at the Farm and the Fish Derby on May 21st at Shasta Lake if anyone is interested in participating.
Sheds the club has already constructed are for sale.
Shed prices and sizes vary.
The club is available for independent projects in the local area if the need arises.
The Contractor’s Club is located in the 2600 building, room 2608 and meets Tuesdays 12:30 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Website construction is underway for the club.
Those interested in construction or volunteer wok should contact club president Troy Frost at (530) 604-4316 or vice president Chris Ray at (530) 921-4350.
Obamanomics
In a speech from the pulpit at the George Washington University in Washington, D.C. on April 13th, President Obama outlines his "balanced approach" budget.
President Obama’s "Framework for Shared Prosperity and Shared Fiscal Responsibility" is as follows:
One quarter of the deficit is to be reduced through tax increases, while the rest is said to come primarily from spending cuts, which splits what those of the president's liberal base may see as still too heavily skewed toward spending cuts.
Tax reform designed to close loopholes that favor the wealthy, which is scheduled to lower overall rates.
Originally recommended by the Bowles-Simpson deficit reduction commission, Obama plans to officially end the Bush-era tax cuts for the 2 percent of Americans making $250,000 or more.
Non-security discretionary spending cuts of $770 billion by 2023 which Bowles-Simpson also recommendation.
Deep cuts of $400 billion to "security spending” (defense) by 2023.
Wisconsin Republican representative Paul Ryan’s budget approach to Medicare and Medicaid was approved in the House
Ryan’s budget was rejected by Obama because he felt that it would unfairly transfer costs to seniors and other susceptible consumers while undermining both programs long term.
Obama, instead, planned reforms to reduce the growth of health care spending that could save $480 billion by 2023, and possibly an additional trillion in the following ten years.
President Obama wants a strong general effort to "strengthen Social Security for the long haul," without hacking benefits for the nation’s children and future.
The White House also proposed cuts to other mandatory programs such as agriculture subsidies, the federal pension insurance system, and anti-fraud measures totaling approximately $360 billion by 2023.
A proposed creation of a committee chaired by Vice President Joe Biden and including members of both major parties and houses of Congress, is desired to begin meeting in May to attempt to "agree on a legislative framework for comprehensive deficit reduction."
A controversial "debt failsafe," is intended to start by 2014. If long-term deficit projections aren't dwindling by that time, the failsafe would trigger an across-the-nation spending reduction.
The only exceptions to the failsafe would be for Social Security, low-income programs, and Medicare benefits.
While these cuts may seem impressive many politicians and voters alike question what the ramifications are to cuts to defense, the end to Bush-era tax cuts and how a failsafe would be implemented.
Defense spending is the United States’ failsafe for national security.
A cut of nearly half a billion dollars to defense alone is staggering and will raise eyebrows.
A tax increase to the wealthy may seem like a good idea at first.
These individuals and companies make more and can afford more right?
These are also those that create the jobs and offer the services that consumers use.
Should these tax rates increase the “rich” and “wealthy” will filter that cost into products for consumers, raising prices on goods and services.
This is the nature of consumerism and a free-market economy.
Less taxes equal lower prices on consumables and services.
A failsafe would be implemented in what way?
What are the criteria for initializing a failsafe?
President Obama wants to raise the debt ceiling, inherently creating a much larger spending crisis.
What the White House can’t seem to grasp is that the government, not the citizens have a spending problem.
The government cannot and should not get out of debt by raising taxes and cutting social programs while it maintains a spending frenzy by not correcting its own dysfunction.
A huge start to cutting the deficit is cutting the salaries and benefits of those government officials since they work for the citizens.
A fuel subsidy of $300 was granted to some government employees to offset rising fuel cost if they would use their own cars.
Keep in mind, those are tax dollars; the hard-earned money that most Americans submitted to the IRS by the 18th.
How many average citizens have a boss that would give an employee a subsidy from money collected directly from someone else?
President Obama’s "Framework for Shared Prosperity and Shared Fiscal Responsibility" is as follows:
One quarter of the deficit is to be reduced through tax increases, while the rest is said to come primarily from spending cuts, which splits what those of the president's liberal base may see as still too heavily skewed toward spending cuts.
Tax reform designed to close loopholes that favor the wealthy, which is scheduled to lower overall rates.
Originally recommended by the Bowles-Simpson deficit reduction commission, Obama plans to officially end the Bush-era tax cuts for the 2 percent of Americans making $250,000 or more.
Non-security discretionary spending cuts of $770 billion by 2023 which Bowles-Simpson also recommendation.
Deep cuts of $400 billion to "security spending” (defense) by 2023.
Wisconsin Republican representative Paul Ryan’s budget approach to Medicare and Medicaid was approved in the House
Ryan’s budget was rejected by Obama because he felt that it would unfairly transfer costs to seniors and other susceptible consumers while undermining both programs long term.
Obama, instead, planned reforms to reduce the growth of health care spending that could save $480 billion by 2023, and possibly an additional trillion in the following ten years.
President Obama wants a strong general effort to "strengthen Social Security for the long haul," without hacking benefits for the nation’s children and future.
The White House also proposed cuts to other mandatory programs such as agriculture subsidies, the federal pension insurance system, and anti-fraud measures totaling approximately $360 billion by 2023.
A proposed creation of a committee chaired by Vice President Joe Biden and including members of both major parties and houses of Congress, is desired to begin meeting in May to attempt to "agree on a legislative framework for comprehensive deficit reduction."
A controversial "debt failsafe," is intended to start by 2014. If long-term deficit projections aren't dwindling by that time, the failsafe would trigger an across-the-nation spending reduction.
The only exceptions to the failsafe would be for Social Security, low-income programs, and Medicare benefits.
While these cuts may seem impressive many politicians and voters alike question what the ramifications are to cuts to defense, the end to Bush-era tax cuts and how a failsafe would be implemented.
Defense spending is the United States’ failsafe for national security.
A cut of nearly half a billion dollars to defense alone is staggering and will raise eyebrows.
A tax increase to the wealthy may seem like a good idea at first.
These individuals and companies make more and can afford more right?
These are also those that create the jobs and offer the services that consumers use.
Should these tax rates increase the “rich” and “wealthy” will filter that cost into products for consumers, raising prices on goods and services.
This is the nature of consumerism and a free-market economy.
Less taxes equal lower prices on consumables and services.
A failsafe would be implemented in what way?
What are the criteria for initializing a failsafe?
President Obama wants to raise the debt ceiling, inherently creating a much larger spending crisis.
What the White House can’t seem to grasp is that the government, not the citizens have a spending problem.
The government cannot and should not get out of debt by raising taxes and cutting social programs while it maintains a spending frenzy by not correcting its own dysfunction.
A huge start to cutting the deficit is cutting the salaries and benefits of those government officials since they work for the citizens.
A fuel subsidy of $300 was granted to some government employees to offset rising fuel cost if they would use their own cars.
Keep in mind, those are tax dollars; the hard-earned money that most Americans submitted to the IRS by the 18th.
How many average citizens have a boss that would give an employee a subsidy from money collected directly from someone else?
Kool April Nights
April 15th was the tax deadline as well as the ever-popular Kool April Nights cruise where over 2,000 hot rods and classic cars purred through the streets for Redding’s famous 20th anniversary car show.
The cruise started at 6:30 p.m. Friday.
The route circled Hilltop Drive, Dana Drive, Churn Creek Road, East Cypress Avenue, and started again at Hilltop.
Spectators young and old lined the route cheering and admiring the classic beauties as they paraded the streets.
There were numerous Camaro SS’s and Dodge Chargers, one of which was an exact replica of the Dukes of Hazard car the “General Lee.”
Children cheered as the drivers revved their engines and peeled their tires.
The alluring smell of exhaust and burnt rubber overwhelmed the senses.
On Saturday the 16th at the Redding Drag strip a variety of classic cars raced to cheering fans.
The Redding Convention Center hosted the car show where owners proudly displayed their works of art.
The brilliance of polished chrome and intensely colored paintjobs illuminated the neighborhood.
"Oh, wow. Look at the paint job on that one," said Katherine Silveira of Shasta Lake.
Sunday at the Convention Center awarded various owners for their automobiles.
Those interested in attending or registering their vehicle for next year’s Kool April Nights should contact http://www.koolaprilnites.com.
Telephone Main Office (530) 226-0844
Main Office Fax: (530) 226-0899
Mailing Address: PO Box 491618, Redding CA 96049
The cruise started at 6:30 p.m. Friday.
The route circled Hilltop Drive, Dana Drive, Churn Creek Road, East Cypress Avenue, and started again at Hilltop.
Spectators young and old lined the route cheering and admiring the classic beauties as they paraded the streets.
There were numerous Camaro SS’s and Dodge Chargers, one of which was an exact replica of the Dukes of Hazard car the “General Lee.”
Children cheered as the drivers revved their engines and peeled their tires.
The alluring smell of exhaust and burnt rubber overwhelmed the senses.
On Saturday the 16th at the Redding Drag strip a variety of classic cars raced to cheering fans.
The Redding Convention Center hosted the car show where owners proudly displayed their works of art.
The brilliance of polished chrome and intensely colored paintjobs illuminated the neighborhood.
"Oh, wow. Look at the paint job on that one," said Katherine Silveira of Shasta Lake.
Sunday at the Convention Center awarded various owners for their automobiles.
Those interested in attending or registering their vehicle for next year’s Kool April Nights should contact http://www.koolaprilnites.com.
Telephone Main Office (530) 226-0844
Main Office Fax: (530) 226-0899
Mailing Address: PO Box 491618, Redding CA 96049
Taxes! Taxes! Read all About It!
A new tax season means new tax law and the 2011 tax season is no different.
Tax returns are to be filed by April 18th.
Tax rates have stayed the same.
Low income taxpayers still benefit from the 10% tax bracket while the High-income tax payers remain in the 35% tax bracket.
The marriage penalty is void and no longer in effect until 2013 because lawmakers felt that too many families would struggle in this economic turmoil.
For wage earners a temporary reduction in payroll tax (6.2%-4.2%) will be applied to the first $106,800.
This means that if a person earned $50,000 a credit of $1,000 is earned.
Estate tax has returned after a year absence.
Without estate tax a person could pass all lifetime-accumulated wealth to their heirs tax-free.
Under the reinstated law a 35% estate tax will be imposed.
The estate tax rate is expected to rise in 2013.
The estate tax is the most controversial tax on the books.
Often referred to as the “Death Tax,” a person’s wealth, which has already been taxed in its lifetime, will be taxed again upon transfer.
According to Curtis Dubay of the Heritage Foundation, “the death tax slows economic growth, destroys jobs, and suppresses wages because it is a tax on capital and on entrepreneurship.”
For more information on estate tax visit www.Heritage.org
The child tax credit was to drop from $1,000 to $500 per child, but it has been delayed until 2013.
Earned income tax credit (EITC) from the economic stimulus act gave a 45% increase to the EITC for families with three or more children, as well as higher income limits for those qualifying for the credit.
The EITC will expire in 20113.
Since the Obama administration allowed the Bush tax cuts to expire, College Saving Plans (529 plans) can no longer be utilized to pay for computers of broadband internet access.
Though there is some good news for college students.
The college tuition tax credit, from the stimulus act of 2009, then the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, is renewed and will expire in 2013.
The Student Loan Interest Deduction has been extended for two more years.
These credits should give college students a bit of a breather.
In 2011, any business doing more than $600 in business with a vendor or any other contractor will be required to submit a 1099 form.
A problem with this new law, aside a massive amount of new paperwork, is that the cost of doing the paperwork will be passed to consumers.
For example, if a small business buys an $800 laptop from Costco or Walmart that business would be required to submit a 1099 form.
The cost of doing business has gone up drastically and the consumer will feel its effects.
What many feel as a ridiculous new tax is the tanning tax; a 10% excise tax simply for getting a tax.
The new Healthcare law passed in 2010 imposes a new criterion that Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) will be taxed.
A new, annual tax on pharmaceutical manufacturers will increase the cost of brand name drugs.
This means that that it will become more cost-effective than ever to purchase off-brand medication.
Tax returns are to be filed by April 18th.
Tax rates have stayed the same.
Low income taxpayers still benefit from the 10% tax bracket while the High-income tax payers remain in the 35% tax bracket.
The marriage penalty is void and no longer in effect until 2013 because lawmakers felt that too many families would struggle in this economic turmoil.
For wage earners a temporary reduction in payroll tax (6.2%-4.2%) will be applied to the first $106,800.
This means that if a person earned $50,000 a credit of $1,000 is earned.
Estate tax has returned after a year absence.
Without estate tax a person could pass all lifetime-accumulated wealth to their heirs tax-free.
Under the reinstated law a 35% estate tax will be imposed.
The estate tax rate is expected to rise in 2013.
The estate tax is the most controversial tax on the books.
Often referred to as the “Death Tax,” a person’s wealth, which has already been taxed in its lifetime, will be taxed again upon transfer.
According to Curtis Dubay of the Heritage Foundation, “the death tax slows economic growth, destroys jobs, and suppresses wages because it is a tax on capital and on entrepreneurship.”
For more information on estate tax visit www.Heritage.org
The child tax credit was to drop from $1,000 to $500 per child, but it has been delayed until 2013.
Earned income tax credit (EITC) from the economic stimulus act gave a 45% increase to the EITC for families with three or more children, as well as higher income limits for those qualifying for the credit.
The EITC will expire in 20113.
Since the Obama administration allowed the Bush tax cuts to expire, College Saving Plans (529 plans) can no longer be utilized to pay for computers of broadband internet access.
Though there is some good news for college students.
The college tuition tax credit, from the stimulus act of 2009, then the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, is renewed and will expire in 2013.
The Student Loan Interest Deduction has been extended for two more years.
These credits should give college students a bit of a breather.
In 2011, any business doing more than $600 in business with a vendor or any other contractor will be required to submit a 1099 form.
A problem with this new law, aside a massive amount of new paperwork, is that the cost of doing the paperwork will be passed to consumers.
For example, if a small business buys an $800 laptop from Costco or Walmart that business would be required to submit a 1099 form.
The cost of doing business has gone up drastically and the consumer will feel its effects.
What many feel as a ridiculous new tax is the tanning tax; a 10% excise tax simply for getting a tax.
The new Healthcare law passed in 2010 imposes a new criterion that Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) will be taxed.
A new, annual tax on pharmaceutical manufacturers will increase the cost of brand name drugs.
This means that that it will become more cost-effective than ever to purchase off-brand medication.
Netflix Killed the DVD Star!
Since its inception in 2007, Netflix has used the Instant Queue feature to bookmark certain DVD’s and is most recently used for remembering streaming movies.
In December 2010, Netflix announced that it is looking at alternative methods for book marking and will ultimately do away with the Instant Queue.
“The queue is optimized to DVD shipping, and we think its a poor vehicle to remember interesting content to stream. We are planning a round of exploration of simpler, more natural “remember” functionality,” says Neil Hunt, Netflix’s chief product officer.
While this may not be a problem for some, others who utilize the queue religiously will have to alter their viewing style quite drastically.
On Netflix’s comments webpage Frank Combs says, “I use instant streaming a lot. I would hate to see that go away. I think a more flexible solution would be good, or something in between what they have now and something new.”
Steward Foss said that, “Netflix in Canada does not have an instant queue. I’ve never used Netflix with it. In my experience it needs something to bookmark videos and TV shows for watching later.”
Change, to many is acceptable, but the level and quantity of change to something so useful is in question.
Foss continues, “I often stumble across a movie that I want to see, but not right now. By the next time I sit down I have forgotten what the movie was and it drives me crazy.”
Following this change is yet another drastic change in protocol; the eventual erasure of all DVD and Blu-Ray discs from service, moving to streaming media only.
Netflix will be offering streaming media for $8 per month, matching rival streaming media outlet Hulu.
This move is designed to move people from disc to streaming, cutting cost for disc storage, personnel and shipping.
One potential problem with this are those living in rural areas are often unable to have streaming media and rely on outlets like Netflix for media entertainment.
Another problem is the limitation on bandwidth.
If everyone in a major metropolitan area switches to streaming media, the demand for bandwidth will be monumental causing a need for stronger, more capable, faster cables and antennas to be installed in all areas of major cities.
In this case what Netflix is doing is changing the face of how people live and connect to the internet and media.
Keeping both streaming and disc options available would be the best way for a business like Netflix to survive, especially in this economy.
According to Sandvine Inc, a bandwidth customer satisfaction company, Netflix accounts for more than 20% of peak traffic to internet users in the U.S.
There is no conceivable business reason Netflix should limit itself to streaming users while shortchanging disc users in the process and voiding itself of all the additional revenue.
In December 2010, Netflix announced that it is looking at alternative methods for book marking and will ultimately do away with the Instant Queue.
“The queue is optimized to DVD shipping, and we think its a poor vehicle to remember interesting content to stream. We are planning a round of exploration of simpler, more natural “remember” functionality,” says Neil Hunt, Netflix’s chief product officer.
While this may not be a problem for some, others who utilize the queue religiously will have to alter their viewing style quite drastically.
On Netflix’s comments webpage Frank Combs says, “I use instant streaming a lot. I would hate to see that go away. I think a more flexible solution would be good, or something in between what they have now and something new.”
Steward Foss said that, “Netflix in Canada does not have an instant queue. I’ve never used Netflix with it. In my experience it needs something to bookmark videos and TV shows for watching later.”
Change, to many is acceptable, but the level and quantity of change to something so useful is in question.
Foss continues, “I often stumble across a movie that I want to see, but not right now. By the next time I sit down I have forgotten what the movie was and it drives me crazy.”
Following this change is yet another drastic change in protocol; the eventual erasure of all DVD and Blu-Ray discs from service, moving to streaming media only.
Netflix will be offering streaming media for $8 per month, matching rival streaming media outlet Hulu.
This move is designed to move people from disc to streaming, cutting cost for disc storage, personnel and shipping.
One potential problem with this are those living in rural areas are often unable to have streaming media and rely on outlets like Netflix for media entertainment.
Another problem is the limitation on bandwidth.
If everyone in a major metropolitan area switches to streaming media, the demand for bandwidth will be monumental causing a need for stronger, more capable, faster cables and antennas to be installed in all areas of major cities.
In this case what Netflix is doing is changing the face of how people live and connect to the internet and media.
Keeping both streaming and disc options available would be the best way for a business like Netflix to survive, especially in this economy.
According to Sandvine Inc, a bandwidth customer satisfaction company, Netflix accounts for more than 20% of peak traffic to internet users in the U.S.
There is no conceivable business reason Netflix should limit itself to streaming users while shortchanging disc users in the process and voiding itself of all the additional revenue.
Libyan Conflict
On February 15th, protestors marched and demonstrated against Libyan President Muammar Gaddafi’s 41-year rule calling for new leadership and fair democratic elections.
What began as a series of peaceful protests has sparked a civil war with Gaddafi struggling to retain power.
In Gaddafi’s efforts to stomp out protestors, using deadly force and air raids, the Libyan Human Rights League said his military has killed approximately 6,000 civilians.
In late February, the United Nations Security Council warned Gaddafi that his government may have committed crimes against humanity.
The council froze the assets of Gaddafi and ten other of his top officials.
March 19th, NATO began to enforce a no-fly zone over Libya.
Gaddafi soon announced a cease fire which he failed to uphold causing NATO to destroy his air defense and assault capabilities.
President Obama said "All attacks against civilians must stop. Gaddafi must stop his troops from advancing… and establish water, electricity and gas supplies to all areas.
"Humanitarian assistance must be allowed to reach the people of Libya.
He goes on to say, “Let me be clear, these terms are not negotiable. If Gaddafi does not comply, the international community will impose consequences, and the resolution will be enforced through military action.
"Our goal is focused, our cause is just and our coalition is strong."
NATO approved sanctions to use deadly force against Gaddafi’s military to thwart civilian deaths.
What President Obama failed to do was do was get Congressional approval to use deadly force against a sovereign nation.
“The President in every possible instance shall consult with Congress before introducing United States Armed Forces into hostilities or into situations where imminent involvement in hostilities is clearly indicated by the circumstances.”
This passage is quoted from the War Powers Resolution of 1973 which was passed after the undeclared wars in Korea and Vietnam.
This law is intended to clarify and demonstrate that the responsibility to declare war rests solely on the shoulders of Congress as designated by the Constitution
According to the Constitution, the law recognizes three circumstances under which the president has authority to utilize our armed forces in hostilities.
The first of which is a declaration of war, second is specific statutory authorization by Congress and third is “a national emergency created by attack upon the United States, its territories or possessions, or its armed forces.”
The president’s fleeting reference to “consulting the bipartisan leadership of Congress” seems distressingly insufficient given the circumstances and the lives at stake.
A simple vote by the U.N. Security Council is in no way a constitutionally recognized substitute for authorization by a vote of the U.S. Congress.
What President Obama did do correctly was state that the U.S. is “the world’s most powerful nation” and has certain unique responsibilities in the international community.
This is exactly why the U.S. should protect its power; by exercising its authority and responsibility within the limits of the law as prescribed by the Constitution.
What began as a series of peaceful protests has sparked a civil war with Gaddafi struggling to retain power.
In Gaddafi’s efforts to stomp out protestors, using deadly force and air raids, the Libyan Human Rights League said his military has killed approximately 6,000 civilians.
In late February, the United Nations Security Council warned Gaddafi that his government may have committed crimes against humanity.
The council froze the assets of Gaddafi and ten other of his top officials.
March 19th, NATO began to enforce a no-fly zone over Libya.
Gaddafi soon announced a cease fire which he failed to uphold causing NATO to destroy his air defense and assault capabilities.
President Obama said "All attacks against civilians must stop. Gaddafi must stop his troops from advancing… and establish water, electricity and gas supplies to all areas.
"Humanitarian assistance must be allowed to reach the people of Libya.
He goes on to say, “Let me be clear, these terms are not negotiable. If Gaddafi does not comply, the international community will impose consequences, and the resolution will be enforced through military action.
"Our goal is focused, our cause is just and our coalition is strong."
NATO approved sanctions to use deadly force against Gaddafi’s military to thwart civilian deaths.
What President Obama failed to do was do was get Congressional approval to use deadly force against a sovereign nation.
“The President in every possible instance shall consult with Congress before introducing United States Armed Forces into hostilities or into situations where imminent involvement in hostilities is clearly indicated by the circumstances.”
This passage is quoted from the War Powers Resolution of 1973 which was passed after the undeclared wars in Korea and Vietnam.
This law is intended to clarify and demonstrate that the responsibility to declare war rests solely on the shoulders of Congress as designated by the Constitution
According to the Constitution, the law recognizes three circumstances under which the president has authority to utilize our armed forces in hostilities.
The first of which is a declaration of war, second is specific statutory authorization by Congress and third is “a national emergency created by attack upon the United States, its territories or possessions, or its armed forces.”
The president’s fleeting reference to “consulting the bipartisan leadership of Congress” seems distressingly insufficient given the circumstances and the lives at stake.
A simple vote by the U.N. Security Council is in no way a constitutionally recognized substitute for authorization by a vote of the U.S. Congress.
What President Obama did do correctly was state that the U.S. is “the world’s most powerful nation” and has certain unique responsibilities in the international community.
This is exactly why the U.S. should protect its power; by exercising its authority and responsibility within the limits of the law as prescribed by the Constitution.
Dinner With Gold Medalist
Redding hosted 1976 Olympic decathlon gold medalist Bruce Jenner for the annual Celebrity Auction and Dinner at Win River Casino on March 18th.
This event is used to fund the Shasta College Athletics Department.
The auction proceeds are “still being tabulated” according to Dean of Physical Education & Athletics,
Gary Houser.
Jenner is also known for his family’s television series “Keeping Up with the Kardashians.”
Doors to the Win River conference room opened at 5:30pm and dinner started at 8:00pm.
The five-star, delectable dish consisted of boneless chicken, garlic mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, wine, cranberry juice, house salad, and topped off with a chocolate mousse cup.
Prior to dinner and ending just before Jenner began his keynote speech was a silent auction of various sports memorabilia such as a Raiders helmet signed by the entire team, jerseys from every sport, vintage and rookie card collections and more.
Jenner talked about how he got involved in sports and then to Nationals and finally setting world records in the Olympic games until retiring in 1976 setting the world record for the decathlon with a total of 8,617 points.
He has since worked as a motivational and inspirational speaker assisting in giving people hope to achieve their goals and dreams.
His personal push is to never give up and to never settle for less than his best and he passes that saying on to others.
The 1976 Montreal Olympics set the tone for the rest of Jenner’s life.
The blond, toned, 6-foot-2 Nikolai Avilov (world record holder for the 1972 Olympics from the Soviet Union) was thought by many impossible to beat.
Jenner was in third place and only 17 points behind his Avilov on the first day.
The vast majority of Jenner’s best events were scheduled for the second day at which point jenner knew he could pull off the win.
"If I am within 150 points of the leader after five events, I’ll run away with it."
On July 30, 1976, the five events went exactly as expected.
He excelled in the 110-meter hurdles, set a personal record in the pole vault, threw the discus and the javelin soundly and sprinted the last 300 meters of the 1,500-meter event to secure the win.
Jenner then took a victory lap with the American flag before finding his wife Chrystie for a victory kiss.
Avilov finished third, at almost 300 points behind the new reigning champion.
After his win, Jenner got pleasure from the unofficial title of "world’s greatest athlete" and appeared in various movies, T.V. shows, and as the poster boy of Wheaties®.
Bruce Jenner’s Tricks to Success
“Gamble, cheat, lie, and steal!”
Gamble - Gamble your best shot in life. Dare to take risks. Life is full of them.
Cheat - Cheat those by never being less than you are.
Surround yourself with positive people.
Lie - Lie in the arms of those you love because all we have is one another.
Never take what love you have for granted
Steal - Steal only love and happiness. Live each day like it is your last, because you never know when that day will come.
"Thank God for Dead Soldiers"
On March 2nd the U.S. Supreme Court ruled 8-1 that picketing at military funerals is protected under the First Amendment.
Lawsuits were filed when the Westboro Baptist Church in Kansas began picketing military funerals with signs and slogans reading “God hates the U.S.A,” “Fag Troops,” “Thank God for dead soldiers” and more.
Opponents to the ruling argue it violates the sanctity and respect of fallen service members and their surviving families.
“A soldier’s funeral is the last great honor that he or she can receive,” says former Air Force Senior Airman David Stewart.
He continues by saying if people are “stupid enough to picket at a funeral, you have given up your right to be called an American and relabeled as a traitor.”
A demonstration that some freedoms we enjoy can be restricted is the 1986 case Bethel School Dist. No. 403 v. Fraser.
The U.S. Supreme Court wrote in it’s decision that, “Surely, it is a highly appropriate function of public school education to prohibit the use of vulgar and offensive terms in public discourse.”
The Court explained that “schools must teach by example the shared values of a civilized social order.”
Being the civilized nation this is one would safely and adequately expect a reverence at a funeral as not everything that is of a political nature need be political in function.
The actions of the picketers being legally fought for would consequently constitute the lawful picketing of their own funerals by others with in-kind slogans and signs.
Fred Phelps, pastor of the Westboro Baptist Church was disbarred in 1979 by the Kansas Bar Association.
"They didn't like me doing pro bono work for poor black people. I sued almost every corporation and governmental entity in the state of Kansas and usually won,” he said in a November, 2010 interview with the Tulsa World.
Albert Snyder sued the Westboro Baptist Church (Snyder v. Phelps) for “intentional infliction of emotional distress” after Westboro members protested at the funeral of his son, Lance Cpl. Matthew Snyder, a Marine who was killed in an accident in Iraq, the Tulsa World reported.
A court ordered the church to pay $11 million to the family.
That verdict was overturned, and the ruling was appealed to the Supreme Court, which heard arguments from Margie J. Phelps, a daughter of Westboro's pastor, Fred Phelps, represented the church leading to the upholding of the overturned ruling.
A conflict that still exists in the wake of this ruling is the issue of hate speech.
In his book Hate Speech, John Nockleby defines hate speech as, outside the law, any communication that disparages a person or a group on the basis of some characteristic such as race or sexual orientation.
Twice-deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, Sergeant Alan Gaston of B Co, 1-126 AVN REGT in Stockton, Ca stated that “legally it’s a bunch of crap! Some chicken-[expletive] judge didn’t want to put his foot down. Personally, I think they should also allow the families to retaliate without any legal ramifications.”
In law, hate speech is any speech, gesture or conduct, writing, or display which is forbidden because it may incite violence or prejudicial action against or by a protected individual or group, or because it disparages or intimidates a protected individual or group.
As hate speech is illegal and thusly protesting in such a manner should be likewise.
The bottom line with speech is that simply because people have the right to say something does not necessarily mean that one should say something.
Freedom is not free.
Those that have served in a military capacity attest to this.
There must be maintained a balance between freedom and responsibility.
Without responsibility there is no freedom.
Conversely without responsibility there is no freedom, just anarchy.
Those hiding behind the law appear to be lacking in responsibility, but claim rights as if those being laid in dust were not the sole reason the rights this nation has are there in the first place.
Lawsuits were filed when the Westboro Baptist Church in Kansas began picketing military funerals with signs and slogans reading “God hates the U.S.A,” “Fag Troops,” “Thank God for dead soldiers” and more.
Opponents to the ruling argue it violates the sanctity and respect of fallen service members and their surviving families.
“A soldier’s funeral is the last great honor that he or she can receive,” says former Air Force Senior Airman David Stewart.
He continues by saying if people are “stupid enough to picket at a funeral, you have given up your right to be called an American and relabeled as a traitor.”
A demonstration that some freedoms we enjoy can be restricted is the 1986 case Bethel School Dist. No. 403 v. Fraser.
The U.S. Supreme Court wrote in it’s decision that, “Surely, it is a highly appropriate function of public school education to prohibit the use of vulgar and offensive terms in public discourse.”
The Court explained that “schools must teach by example the shared values of a civilized social order.”
Being the civilized nation this is one would safely and adequately expect a reverence at a funeral as not everything that is of a political nature need be political in function.
The actions of the picketers being legally fought for would consequently constitute the lawful picketing of their own funerals by others with in-kind slogans and signs.
Fred Phelps, pastor of the Westboro Baptist Church was disbarred in 1979 by the Kansas Bar Association.
"They didn't like me doing pro bono work for poor black people. I sued almost every corporation and governmental entity in the state of Kansas and usually won,” he said in a November, 2010 interview with the Tulsa World.
Albert Snyder sued the Westboro Baptist Church (Snyder v. Phelps) for “intentional infliction of emotional distress” after Westboro members protested at the funeral of his son, Lance Cpl. Matthew Snyder, a Marine who was killed in an accident in Iraq, the Tulsa World reported.
A court ordered the church to pay $11 million to the family.
That verdict was overturned, and the ruling was appealed to the Supreme Court, which heard arguments from Margie J. Phelps, a daughter of Westboro's pastor, Fred Phelps, represented the church leading to the upholding of the overturned ruling.
A conflict that still exists in the wake of this ruling is the issue of hate speech.
In his book Hate Speech, John Nockleby defines hate speech as, outside the law, any communication that disparages a person or a group on the basis of some characteristic such as race or sexual orientation.
Twice-deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, Sergeant Alan Gaston of B Co, 1-126 AVN REGT in Stockton, Ca stated that “legally it’s a bunch of crap! Some chicken-[expletive] judge didn’t want to put his foot down. Personally, I think they should also allow the families to retaliate without any legal ramifications.”
In law, hate speech is any speech, gesture or conduct, writing, or display which is forbidden because it may incite violence or prejudicial action against or by a protected individual or group, or because it disparages or intimidates a protected individual or group.
As hate speech is illegal and thusly protesting in such a manner should be likewise.
The bottom line with speech is that simply because people have the right to say something does not necessarily mean that one should say something.
Freedom is not free.
Those that have served in a military capacity attest to this.
There must be maintained a balance between freedom and responsibility.
Without responsibility there is no freedom.
Conversely without responsibility there is no freedom, just anarchy.
Those hiding behind the law appear to be lacking in responsibility, but claim rights as if those being laid in dust were not the sole reason the rights this nation has are there in the first place.
Bible Bashed
The New American Bible is on book store shelves as of Ash Wednesday, a Catholic holiday of mourning and repentance to God.
This updated version had nearly 50 scholars and religious leaders from many faiths as well as a commission of Roman Catholic bishops contribute to the update.
This version has been tirelessly worked on since 1994.
Some words have been modified or substituted such as words such as "booty" and "holocaust" for better understanding of modern language.
For example, “booty” often referencing in modern language a sexual connotation, has been changed to “spoils of war.”
“Holocaust” in current usage mostly used in reference to the World War II genocide of Jews is now changed to “burnt offerings.”
In Hebrew holocaust means “oppression.”
The Bible has been translated repeatedly for various reasons over the centuries.
Potential issues will inevitably arise from these alterations such as the validity of these new translations of ancient translations.
The very act of translating a translation can change the intent, meaning, context and personal emotion one feels when reading it.
The Bible used a combination of parables, metaphors, and plain, honest language, much of which should not be changed as outlined in various books in the Bible itself.
The most controversial change is the translation of “the virgin” to “the young woman.”
"The bishops and the Bible are not signaling any sort of change in the doctrine of the virgin birth of Jesus. None whatsoever," says Mary Sperry, who oversees Bible licensing for the bishops.
Opponents of the changes site many passages in the Bible stating that it is not possible to add or take away from the original Bible.
One such reference is Deuteronomy 4:2 which states:
"Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish [ought] from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you."
Some also argue that these passages are often taken out of context and that reading all related passages will clarify the individual passage as well as the book itself.
Should the translation of any historic text be left up to the reader or be dictated by a scholar and committee of such things?
The new edition will be made available in paperback, hardback, an e-book, an app for cell phones, and Braille.
This updated version had nearly 50 scholars and religious leaders from many faiths as well as a commission of Roman Catholic bishops contribute to the update.
This version has been tirelessly worked on since 1994.
Some words have been modified or substituted such as words such as "booty" and "holocaust" for better understanding of modern language.
For example, “booty” often referencing in modern language a sexual connotation, has been changed to “spoils of war.”
“Holocaust” in current usage mostly used in reference to the World War II genocide of Jews is now changed to “burnt offerings.”
In Hebrew holocaust means “oppression.”
The Bible has been translated repeatedly for various reasons over the centuries.
Potential issues will inevitably arise from these alterations such as the validity of these new translations of ancient translations.
The very act of translating a translation can change the intent, meaning, context and personal emotion one feels when reading it.
The Bible used a combination of parables, metaphors, and plain, honest language, much of which should not be changed as outlined in various books in the Bible itself.
The most controversial change is the translation of “the virgin” to “the young woman.”
"The bishops and the Bible are not signaling any sort of change in the doctrine of the virgin birth of Jesus. None whatsoever," says Mary Sperry, who oversees Bible licensing for the bishops.
Opponents of the changes site many passages in the Bible stating that it is not possible to add or take away from the original Bible.
One such reference is Deuteronomy 4:2 which states:
"Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish [ought] from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you."
Some also argue that these passages are often taken out of context and that reading all related passages will clarify the individual passage as well as the book itself.
Should the translation of any historic text be left up to the reader or be dictated by a scholar and committee of such things?
The new edition will be made available in paperback, hardback, an e-book, an app for cell phones, and Braille.
Lord of the Holy Land: The Battle for Middle East
Typical living conditions in the Middle East.
The issue of Palestine and Israel having separate statehoods has been in the news monthly for years. There is always a clash or a violation of a cease fire or another political strain that has the region on a hair trigger.
Palestine and Israel have been at odds for centuries. War, cruelty and underhandedness from both sides have forged a solid wedge of animosity. The chance of a stable and economical region lies with the leaders of these two great nations.
There are two major incidents in the past year that highlight the tension and instability of the region and could force the hand of many world leaders to a strong defensive stance.
In May 2010, Israeli commandos attacked six small Turkish flotillas supplying aid to Gaza by passing through Israel’s naval blockade. The flotillas were warned not alter their course and to not proceed to the blockade, but they continued on course.
A statement from the Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, “Early this morning (31 May), IDF naval forces intercepted six ships attempting to break the naval blockade of the Gaza Strip. This happened after numerous warnings from Israel and the Israeli navy that were issued prior to the action. The Israel navy requested the ships to redirect toward Ashdod where they would be able to unload their aid material which would then be transferred over land after undergoing security inspections.”
Ten died as a result of this incident and caused an international uproar.
Currently, the riots and chaos in Egypt are concerning for Israel as they face the possibility of a voiding of a 1979 peace treaty with Egypt should President Mubarak resign his post.
Should Mubarak resign, the anti-Israel Muslim Brotherhood has been eyeing seats at the government table.
Khaled Hamza, editor of the Muslim Brotherhood’s website, said that "We think Israel is an occupation force and is not fair to the Palestinians. We do not believe in negotiation with Israel. As the Muslim Brotherhood, we must resist all this. Did you see what they do in Gaza, on the flotilla? Israel is a very dangerous force and we must resist. Resistance is the only way, negotiation is not useful at all."
Should a reformation of the Egyptian government occur, Israel will be virtually surrounded by enemies vying for their immediate destruction. In this case, Israel would be forced to step up its defensive forces and respond more aggressively to threat than ever before. This scenario is damaging to Middle East stability.
Marcella Wagner, a Lance reader says, “The Israelis weren’t just coming into a land and taking it over, they came there because they were taken from the land centuries ago. The main Palestinian and Israeli problem stems from the British. When they moved out it created a power vacuum that sent everyone in the Middle East into a frenzy for the Holy Land.”
Too better-ascertain the future of this region we must understand its true history.
Both Israeli and Palestinian peoples immigrated to this region in the Middle East. The origins of both are not quite clear, but the languages and customs derive from Indo-European factions. The original occupiers of the land were the Canaanites, though they were conquered frequently. The Egyptians, Babylonians, and Hittites, then later the Philistines and Israelites as well as various smaller nations laid claim to the sacred land.
According to Wikipedia, Ramesses II, who lived from 1279-1213 BCE, signed a treaty with the Hittites after yielding the northern Levant to the Hittite Empire. He conducted a campaign throughout the territory of what was later to emerge as Israel, after the revolt of Shasu, establishing an Egyptian garrison in what was later established as Moab.
The Philistines, identified as one of the "Sea Peoples” were located in the five major cities of what is now Gaza, Ashkelon, Ashdod, Ekron, and Gath, along the coastal strip of southwestern Canaan, belonged to Egypt up to the reign of Ramesses III from 1180 to 1150 BCE. Their maritime understanding seemingly would have made them an important ally to the Phoenicians.
The Peleset, or Philistines, lost their independence to Tiglath-Pileser III of Assyria by 732 BCE, and revolts in the following years were crushed with an iron fist. Later, Nebuchadrezzar II of Babylon eventually conquered all of Syria and the Kingdom of Judah, consequently the former Philistine cities became part of the Neo-Babylonian Empire. Eventually all traces of the Philistines as a people or ethnic group disappear. Subsequently the cities were under the control of Persians, Jews, Greeks, Romans, and other empires.
Circa 1200 BCE, the Hittite Empire of Anatolia was conquered by allied tribes from the west. The northern, coastal Canaanites, from the Phoenicians to the Greeks, may have been temporarily displaced by so-called "People of the Sea" (namely the Philistines), but returned when the invading tribes showed no preference to settle. This demonstrates that the Philistines took over the area and forced the native inhabitants, the Canaanites, to compliance.
A historical world map by Denoyer and Gepert show that Israel and Palestine were both controlled by the Turkish Empire in 1914. The Holocaust was a disaster of great proportions. One could ask, does this entitle Jews to a home in a formerly conquered Israel? Does this mean that the land is free to the Palestinians or any other culture? It is a fact that this land has been in dispute for centuries. It was only after World War II that Israel became a state. Whose demand for the land should be met?
“A common misperception is that the Jews were forced into the Diaspora by the Romans after the destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem in the year 70 A.D. and then, 1,800 years later, suddenly returned to Palestine demanding their country back. In reality, the Jewish people have maintained ties to their historic homeland for more than 3,700 years. A national language and a distinct civilization have been maintained,” said in a statement on JewishVirtualLibrary.org
Dr. Chris Kutras, political science professor at Shasta College said many “…Middle Eastern countries are about 2,500 years behind the U.S. and other modern nations, because they lack the development of Greco-Roman attributes such as that they are non-independent thinkers, they have a limited sense of community, a limited grasp of empire expansion, they use terrorists as their main tactical striking force instead of an organized military, they have no basic police force to defend its people, and the system of government is tribal at best.”
Based on Kutras’ analysis, the land would be more valuable economically in the hands of the nation to which is best-suited to ensure it prosper financially and fully protect all civilians and officials regardless of religious belief systems, though religion plays a major roll in Middle Eastern politics.
It is well-known throughout history that land changes hands constantly. The CIA notes that “Israel has a technologically advanced market economy with substantial… government participation. It depends on imports of crude oil, grains, raw materials, and military equipment. Roughly half of the government's external debt is owed to the US, which is its major source of economic and military aid.”
If Palestine can meet the high demand for stability in the height of hostilities and uncertainties, a separate state in the Gaza Strip is palpable. Religion is a major part of these nations. This needs to be cautiously addressed in a bipartisan agreement between the two nations. Strong leaders devoted to a realistic and equal resolution is paramount to the stability of the region.
A 2006 United Nations Conference report states that, “Setting the Palestinian economy on a path of sustained growth requires understanding the conditions that influenced its long-term development prospects, particularly the structures established after the occupation of the West Bank and Gaza and the institutional set-up affecting its growth dynamics. Conditions of conflict, political instability, an elusive sovereignty and much-promised statehood have taken a growing toll on the ability of the Palestinian National Authority (PA) to ensure any governance, much less of the corruption-free, best-practice model against which the PA is often measured.”
It is apparent that both nations have persisted in preserving their individual ways of life. The economic stability and safety of the inhabitants of this region is contingent on the cooperation of these two governing bodies. When the dust settles, either or both nations may control the land surrounding Gaza.
Sources
http://www.phoenician.org/sea_peoples.htm
http://www.spartacus.schoolnet.co.uk/USA1500.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philistines
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_the_State_of_Israel
Denoyer – Geppert, Social Science Map, H23 Europe 1914
http://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/jsource/History/The_Jewish_Claim_To_The_Land_Of_Israel.html
Kutras, Dr. Chris; Social Science Professor, Shasta College
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/is.html
http://www.unctad.org/en/docs/gdsapp20061_en.pdf
Wagner, Marcella; The Lance reader
Tech Time
Technology has drastically changed from the 1970’s until now in 2011. The world went from Commodore and Tandy computers with slower-than-smell processors to hyper thread possessors at literally lightning speed.
Older dreams are becoming reality. USB 3.0, solid state hard drives, hybrid drives and the phasing out of desktops and laptops to the compact, energy saving netbooks are now a reality.
Remember when the world changed from USB 1.0 to USB 2.0? Well get ready for the new and greatly improved USB 3.0!
USB 3.0 is backward compatible with USB 2.0; simply change to the new 3.0 cable. A benefit to USB 3.0 is that it is ten times faster than USB 2.0 and allows devices to go into low power modes as needed; it uses only on3-third the power of USB 2.0.
Maxing out transfer rates at 480Mbps, USB 2.0 is blasted out of the silicon with USB 3.0’s 5Gbps transfer rate.
The technology will be integrated into Intel devices this year while it has already been integrated into Asus motherboards.
According to Windows8News.com, USB 3.0 will be embedded into the new Windows 8 operating system arriving late 2011.
New solid state hard drives (SSD) have no moving parts unlike their archaic counterparts.
The most current form of SSD is the SSD hybrid drive which has a traditional drive and a SSD working in tandem.
Benchmarkreviews.com states that “Seagate's Momentus-XT hybrid uses a 7200-RPM hard drive fused with 4GB SLC NAND flash to deliver SSD speeds and HDD storage capacity.”
Further, SSDs improve speeds for applications and operating systems by 45,000%.
Other forms of SSDs are PCI-E only. One of which is the RAM-based DDR Drive which uses a combination of SSD and four DDR RAM sticks which can be found at PCPER.com which came out in 2009.
The RAR-based SSD may not be the latest in technology like the USB 3.0, but is a rare and quite stable device. “This flash memory enables the DDRdrive to backup and restore from non-volatile storage,” says Allyn Malventano, a components tester.
Going the way of the Zip Drive are desktop PCs and laptop computers. Introduced by Asus in 2007, netbooks, designed to be smaller, cheaper and lighter than conventional laptop computers, have become the standard for the avid computer user.
While these books lack optical disc drives, the batter life is extended, on some models, to seven hours and power consumption is minimal.
Some complaints about the netbooks are the smaller keyboard and touch pad. It may be an inconvenience, but the benefits seem to outweigh the shortcomings.
Older dreams are becoming reality. USB 3.0, solid state hard drives, hybrid drives and the phasing out of desktops and laptops to the compact, energy saving netbooks are now a reality.
Remember when the world changed from USB 1.0 to USB 2.0? Well get ready for the new and greatly improved USB 3.0!
USB 3.0 is backward compatible with USB 2.0; simply change to the new 3.0 cable. A benefit to USB 3.0 is that it is ten times faster than USB 2.0 and allows devices to go into low power modes as needed; it uses only on3-third the power of USB 2.0.
Maxing out transfer rates at 480Mbps, USB 2.0 is blasted out of the silicon with USB 3.0’s 5Gbps transfer rate.
The technology will be integrated into Intel devices this year while it has already been integrated into Asus motherboards.
According to Windows8News.com, USB 3.0 will be embedded into the new Windows 8 operating system arriving late 2011.
New solid state hard drives (SSD) have no moving parts unlike their archaic counterparts.
The most current form of SSD is the SSD hybrid drive which has a traditional drive and a SSD working in tandem.
Benchmarkreviews.com states that “Seagate's Momentus-XT hybrid uses a 7200-RPM hard drive fused with 4GB SLC NAND flash to deliver SSD speeds and HDD storage capacity.”
Further, SSDs improve speeds for applications and operating systems by 45,000%.
Other forms of SSDs are PCI-E only. One of which is the RAM-based DDR Drive which uses a combination of SSD and four DDR RAM sticks which can be found at PCPER.com which came out in 2009.
The RAR-based SSD may not be the latest in technology like the USB 3.0, but is a rare and quite stable device. “This flash memory enables the DDRdrive to backup and restore from non-volatile storage,” says Allyn Malventano, a components tester.
Going the way of the Zip Drive are desktop PCs and laptop computers. Introduced by Asus in 2007, netbooks, designed to be smaller, cheaper and lighter than conventional laptop computers, have become the standard for the avid computer user.
While these books lack optical disc drives, the batter life is extended, on some models, to seven hours and power consumption is minimal.
Some complaints about the netbooks are the smaller keyboard and touch pad. It may be an inconvenience, but the benefits seem to outweigh the shortcomings.
Monopoly: The Next Generation
Coming this Fall to retail stores everywhere, Monopoly Live! Yes, Hasbro’s classic board game that everyone loves is getting a technology facelift!
The paper money, the Community Chest and Chance cards and the much-loved dice are no more.
Taking the place of these external elements is a tower with an infrared eye, centrally located to monitor all player movements and transactions and even talk to players.
Instead of cash players are given an ATM card.
Buying and selling properties will be done by holding a players hand over certain decals on the board.
The location of the properties has, to the relief of many, remained the same.
The need to keep pace with the growing technology-based game world in conjunction with the desire from players to become more social has fueled this game’s reformation.
"How do we give them the video game and the board game with the social experience? That's where Monopoly Live came in," says Jane Ritson-Parsons, global brand leader for Monopoly.
This new design seems to fit the scope and breadth of consumer demand.
Some have strong, negative opinions about classic game changes, such as Daisy Rainville, avid Monoploy player, who says “That just sounds stupid. It takes the whole point of Monopoly away. It’s a game with paper and dice. Not a stupid computer.”
Deborah Kludjian, mother of five, has a different perspective, “No money? My children learned the value of money, how to add, subtract, make change and the value of exchange with Monopoly money. I guess they want to teach the new generation how to use an ATM machine.”
Issues that may get players steamed is the inability to perform under-the-table transactions such as allowing people a free pass on their real estate for four or five moves provided an up-front fee is produced
A simple issue of collecting the “pot” on Free Parking – according game board rules Free Parking is just that, Free Parking; the only free and safe spot on the board.
Some perks that may be of interest to skeptics are random, mini-games like sudden property auctions and horse races.
This edition is planned and setup for faster and easier game play.
Monopoly has already been on game consoles for and computers for years. This is just another obvious step for game designers, breaking up the sometimes dragging monotony the game usually brings.
Monopoly Live will be selling for $50 at retail stores. Other games, like Battleship will soon get more technological advancements.
The paper money, the Community Chest and Chance cards and the much-loved dice are no more.
Taking the place of these external elements is a tower with an infrared eye, centrally located to monitor all player movements and transactions and even talk to players.
Instead of cash players are given an ATM card.
Buying and selling properties will be done by holding a players hand over certain decals on the board.
The location of the properties has, to the relief of many, remained the same.
The need to keep pace with the growing technology-based game world in conjunction with the desire from players to become more social has fueled this game’s reformation.
"How do we give them the video game and the board game with the social experience? That's where Monopoly Live came in," says Jane Ritson-Parsons, global brand leader for Monopoly.
This new design seems to fit the scope and breadth of consumer demand.
Some have strong, negative opinions about classic game changes, such as Daisy Rainville, avid Monoploy player, who says “That just sounds stupid. It takes the whole point of Monopoly away. It’s a game with paper and dice. Not a stupid computer.”
Deborah Kludjian, mother of five, has a different perspective, “No money? My children learned the value of money, how to add, subtract, make change and the value of exchange with Monopoly money. I guess they want to teach the new generation how to use an ATM machine.”
Issues that may get players steamed is the inability to perform under-the-table transactions such as allowing people a free pass on their real estate for four or five moves provided an up-front fee is produced
A simple issue of collecting the “pot” on Free Parking – according game board rules Free Parking is just that, Free Parking; the only free and safe spot on the board.
Some perks that may be of interest to skeptics are random, mini-games like sudden property auctions and horse races.
This edition is planned and setup for faster and easier game play.
Monopoly has already been on game consoles for and computers for years. This is just another obvious step for game designers, breaking up the sometimes dragging monotony the game usually brings.
Monopoly Live will be selling for $50 at retail stores. Other games, like Battleship will soon get more technological advancements.
Teens and Tech
There was a time not so long ago when having a cellular phone was not the norm.
In fact, the cellular phones during that time were remarkably large and veritably archaic in comparison with what is available today.
By the beginning of 2011, many have acquired what is called a smart phone. It is more than a phone and only slightly less than a computer.
It is a technological tool used to connect each person with the world as they see fit, no matter where in the world they may be.
It is text messaging, email, internet, et cetera; all found in a tiny device that easily fits into your back pocket.
These smart phones are affordable and widely available.
A growing problem now is many middle and high school students have their very own smart phones that they carry with them each day to school.
Though this technology has enriched the life of many, it has also created difficulties for those whose job it is to supervise and teach these students.
“Many schools have a no cell phone policy, or at the very least, require students to turn the phones off and leave them in their backpacks or lockers,” says Melissa Campbell, staff member at Chrysalis Charter School in Palo Cedro.
Campbell has also worked at numerous schools throughout Shasta County and the Bay Area.
In early years, it had been fairly easy to see if a student was breaking the rule. The act of talking on a phone is usually fairly easy to detect and/or hear.
Now, as innovation would have it, text messaging complicated this clear cut view. It is a silent activity and can be done without bringing too much attention to oneself.
It can be done right in the midst of class, when students should be learning and not focusing on their next text message.
To further complicate the matter, there now are students using their phones to surf the internet, and even chatting with virtual strangers we know nothing about.
They are quietly doing it right in class, in the hallways, or in the bathrooms; and they are doing it without anyone able to monitor their online activities.
The school districts normally get parental permission for students to use the school’s internet, which all have filtering programs that control and monitor the online activities of the students.
The schools recognize that the internet is a powerful educational tool if used appropriately. Therefore, school districts have taken these precautions to enrich the learning environment of the students, while protecting these kids.
Now, school districts are faced with the difficulty of trying to protect its students with the inability to monitor or control cell phone usage.
Are these phones important learning tools, or are they actually impeding learning? Is having a cell phone truly safer for a student, or is it in fact creating more possible dangers?
“Many teachers and school staff members feel the situation is not a good one, and that very soon something will need to change,” says Campbell.
All of the aspects of this issue should be carefully considered, and the benefits and drawbacks weighed accordingly.
In fact, the cellular phones during that time were remarkably large and veritably archaic in comparison with what is available today.
By the beginning of 2011, many have acquired what is called a smart phone. It is more than a phone and only slightly less than a computer.
It is a technological tool used to connect each person with the world as they see fit, no matter where in the world they may be.
It is text messaging, email, internet, et cetera; all found in a tiny device that easily fits into your back pocket.
These smart phones are affordable and widely available.
A growing problem now is many middle and high school students have their very own smart phones that they carry with them each day to school.
Though this technology has enriched the life of many, it has also created difficulties for those whose job it is to supervise and teach these students.
“Many schools have a no cell phone policy, or at the very least, require students to turn the phones off and leave them in their backpacks or lockers,” says Melissa Campbell, staff member at Chrysalis Charter School in Palo Cedro.
Campbell has also worked at numerous schools throughout Shasta County and the Bay Area.
In early years, it had been fairly easy to see if a student was breaking the rule. The act of talking on a phone is usually fairly easy to detect and/or hear.
Now, as innovation would have it, text messaging complicated this clear cut view. It is a silent activity and can be done without bringing too much attention to oneself.
It can be done right in the midst of class, when students should be learning and not focusing on their next text message.
To further complicate the matter, there now are students using their phones to surf the internet, and even chatting with virtual strangers we know nothing about.
They are quietly doing it right in class, in the hallways, or in the bathrooms; and they are doing it without anyone able to monitor their online activities.
The school districts normally get parental permission for students to use the school’s internet, which all have filtering programs that control and monitor the online activities of the students.
The schools recognize that the internet is a powerful educational tool if used appropriately. Therefore, school districts have taken these precautions to enrich the learning environment of the students, while protecting these kids.
Now, school districts are faced with the difficulty of trying to protect its students with the inability to monitor or control cell phone usage.
Are these phones important learning tools, or are they actually impeding learning? Is having a cell phone truly safer for a student, or is it in fact creating more possible dangers?
“Many teachers and school staff members feel the situation is not a good one, and that very soon something will need to change,” says Campbell.
All of the aspects of this issue should be carefully considered, and the benefits and drawbacks weighed accordingly.
Officer Song, Your Safe Walk Buddy
Officer Tae Song.
Beginning January 3, 2011, Shasta College welcomed its new campus security officer, Tae Song.
Officer Song attended College of the Redwoods in Eureka, California for a year and a half until graduating in December 2008.
He enjoys Shasta College’s atmosphere and the rapport he already has with students and faculty.
His serious attitude combined with his cheerful demeanor and humorous comments during the interview demonstrate his leadership ability and his dedication to safety and student relations.
“I plan to stay a while,” says Song. “I want to improve things, not necessarily change them.”
Safety is a top priority for any school. Shasta is no exception.
Officer Song stresses the importance of being safe by being aware of surroundings and being with a friend, especially in darker areas of the school.
“I am a strong supporter of the buddy system,” says Song.
The Shasta College Security webpage has crime alerts to notify students of any reported crime.
The last crime posted was of a campus beating and robbery of a student for $20 on December 17, 2010 at 10:20p.m. by the west walk-over bridge on Old Oregon Trail.
The student sustained minor injuries.
There have been numerous sexual assault reports in previous semesters as well.
Officer Song urges students “If you feel unsafe walking to your car, call Safe Walk and officers will escort you to your car.”
Men, keep this in the forefront of your mind, crime and sexual assault are not limited to women. Men are not immune from such things.
Remember to check your vehicle for disturbances, marks and even a person hiding in the back seat before entering.
Bring a friend or call campus security just as a precaution. Officers are always eager to escort a student so they feel safe.
Security contact information from Shasta College Website is as follows:
Redding Police Department 225-4200
Department of Campus Safety and
Safe Walk 242-7910
CAMPUS SAFETY DEPARTMENT:
jbarton@shastacollege.edu or
kbenzler@shastacollege.edu
Safety Department's Hours:
8:00 AM to midnight on weekdays.
9:30 AM to 5:30 PM on Saturdays.
If Officers are unavailable (Room 5015) they can be reached by one of the Blue Security telephones located inside campus buildings, the push button security phone outside of the Campus Safety office, or by calling 242-7910.
PARKING NOTE: Staff parking areas are enforced 8:00 AM-5:00 PM. After 5:00 PM weeknights students may park in staff parking with a valid student or daily parking permit.
Siskiyou Extreme
On December 27th, 2010 it is decided that a group of friends and family will trek Castle Lake and brave the cold, ice and snow that will surely hinder progress.
We don our equipment consisting of show shoes, jackets, gloves, snow bibs, balaclavas and boots.
The walk to the lake is arduous. The cold mountain air stings our cheeks and ears chilling us to the bone.
All of this before we have even made it to our destination.
Finally we make our way to the lake. We pause and marvel at its splendor and beauty.
The Klamath Mountians are an awe-inspiring sight. Gazing at their magnificence is quite a humbling experience.
Castle Lake has an elevation of 5,574 ft. To give a comparison, Mount Shasta has an elevation of 14,179 feet.
The frozen lake is carved through with ski, snow mobile and snow shoe tracks.
The ridgeline is scattered with trees and strewn with granite boulders.
Ahead of us is the highest peak where three snowboarders take a crack at the virgin powder.
To the left a snowy mountain fog glides through a small valley toward us.
To the right a small group of rolling hills, caressed by evergreens catches our eyes.
We clear our snow shoes in preparation for our crossing. The snow is thick and fluffy. Powder like this is envied by all manner of snow enthusiasts.
As we press on we observe that the ice is thick with ten inches of snow atop its wintry coldness.
We pause again and stand dumbfounded at what nature has presented us.
Dave says, “This is the best place to come.”
Dave is right. The peacefulness we all felt on this day was intoxicating. The cold left our bodies and was filled with the coalescing warmth of pleasure and satisfaction.
The five of us crossed the lake and banked right on a return path to our vehicle.
We passed great snow dunes and a nearly-covered outbuilding which was climbed upon as if we conquered the mountain; a tribute to our success.
Our monumental seven-mile trek ends at the Jeep with fresh hot chocolate and a myriad of snacks.
We felt eviscerated as we left this omnipotent setting, one that we are all eager to return.
This humble Lake and mountainside are what we look to in our lives as both the Yin and Yang of our existence.
The mountain may be jagged and unyielding, but there is always a peaceful place in the heart of adversary.
Fountain Lady
January 20th, 2011 Cathy Cruz Marrero told ABC News that was walking through the Berkshire Mall in Reading, Pa when she fell into the mall fountain because she was distracted because she was texting.
Cathy said she was considering suing the mall because “nobody went to my aid.”
Her video clip went viral just two days after her fall because mall security leaked the clip via cell phone to YouTube.
Those responsible for the leak have been fired.
Cathy looked somber and embarrassed in her ABC interview with her attorney by her side.
Blogger “Tie” asks, “Did anyone know her name BEFORE this lawsuit? IF not, they do now.”
As fate would have it, Cathy has more issues than texting herself into a fountain. She also has criminal charges against her for unrelated events, such as identity theft/fraud, four convicted retail theft charges, as well as a hit-and-run charge for hitting a parked car.
Cathy Marrero, as of January 23rd, has officially dropped her suit against the Berkshire Mall.
This incident highlights the dangers and issues that arise due to being distracted.
Some states are looking at making laws prohibiting the use of cell phones, iPods, and the like while walking.
While this may seem an extreme measure, the incidence of hazard and even death while being distracted are equally extreme.
For example, on March 16, 2010 a man was jogging on the beach near Palmetto Dunes in Georgia and was struck by a plane that made an emergency landing on the beach.
Lawyers argue that he would still be alive if he was not distracted by his device.
On July 1, 2008 California banned all cell phone use while driving because of the rising number of phone-related accidents on the road.
In California the fine for the first offense is $20 and $50 for every time thereafter.
While driving to Shasta College people are seen texting and talking every morning.
People need to recognize the danger of doing so to avoid the damage that can be caused to self, others and property.
Simply pulling to the side of an authorized section of road or into a parking lot would suffice.
Humorous incidents like “Fountain Lady” are great for a quick laugh, but nobody enjoys reading about a death because someone else was being careless.
Cathy had this to say to the younger generation, “Do not text and walk…It can happen anywhere.”
Good point there!
Duke It Out!
Duke It Out!
Gamers get ready to stalk game store shelves on May 3rd because the long-awaited Duke Nukem Forever is finally here!
This is the third Duke Nukem in the series and has been highly anticipated by gamers for 14 years.
Duke Nukem Forever was first revealed in April of 1997, but due to funding issues in 2009 for game co-designers 3D Realms and Apogee, they were both forced to close up shop.
In 2010 Take 2 Interactive acquired the rights and handed over game development to Gearbox Software, creators of Grand Theft Auto.
Commonly called Duke or Nukem, this game has “unprecedented interactivity, variety, realism…” states FilePlanet.com.
Duke is one of a handful of elementary 3D games of the ‘90s that sparked the 3D revolution and turned games into the detailed, high-definition graphic games that are enjoyed by millions of gamers today.
Christophor Rick, CEO of Gamers Daily News says, “It's quite possibly the longest awaited release for a game ever, it had better be good.”
“Get ready to chew bubble gum and kick ass...again…” Christophor Rick, CEO, Gamers Daily News.
Nukem is a well-choreographed first-person shooter (FPS) game whose only mission is to bring destruction and mayhem to gamers’ fingertips.
With today’s rapidly-developing technology this FPS is a first-rate demonstration of that technological advancement.
Known for its violent, graphic nature and obscene commentary, Duke Nukem carved out a place in game world history and will remain a popular relic for decades-to-come.
Some avid gamers, like Chris Jones, are skeptical. “Violence, bad language, and strippers come a dime a dozen in newer games. So what made Duke awesome back then doesn’t necessarily mean nuthin now,” says Chris.
Shane Norman, cousin of Chris Jones and avid gamer, says, “I’ve been playing games since I had a Commodore. I’ve waited for this game long enough. It’s gonna be phenomenal!”
Classics never die. This classic is bound to revive the long history of classics.
Screen shots and a demo version of Duke Nukem Forever are currently online.
Duke’s play parameters are set up like Halo, a game many people have heard of, even non-gamers. This is the next “Halo” craze.
Duke drives a monster truck, shoots aliens and pig cops and indulges in risqué behaviors, just as expected.
Nukem contains new weapons, maps, characters and rude comments, to make any player drool in anticipation.
Available in PC, Xbox 360 and PS3 formats, this game will light anyone’s destructive fire!
To speak the minds of the millions of gamers around the world, “IT’S ABOUT TIME!”
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