Thanksgiving

On Thursday across the United States we will be celebrating Thanksgiving.  The tradition of dedicating at least one day to thanks dates back as far as 1621 in the United States.  While the original purpose was to give thanks for a plentiful harvest, it has evolved over time to a day spent with family and reflecting on the riches we have in our lives.

From its origin to 1863, the date of Thanksgiving was decided on by each state independently.  It was not until President Abraham Lincoln issued a presidential proclamation to uniformly recognize the last Thursday in November as a national day of thanksgiving.  In the midst of the Civil War President Lincoln was looking for any and all reasons and methods to unify the country.  While it may not have meant much in 1863, the establishment of a national holiday started a day of tradition.  Whether it be the turkey, football, or special desert, we each have special family rituals while focusing on giving thanks for the many things we have.

Do you think President Lincoln was right to establish Thanksgiving as a national holiday?  Do you have any special traditions in your family for Thanksgiving?  If so, what?  What are you thankful for?

Idaho's Death Penalty

On Friday, November 18, 2011, Paul Ezra Rhodes is scheduled to be put to death by lethal injection by the Idaho Department of Corrections.  Rhoades is a convicted murder of three people in 1987 and has been serving his time on Idaho’s Death Row since his sentencing in 1988.

If Rhoades appeals are rejected he will be the first person executed against his will in the state of Idaho since 1957 and the second person executed since 1994. 

Rhoades was found guilty of gruesomely murdering three people in eastern Idaho between February 28, 1987 and March 19, 1987.  He was arrested shortly after the crimes were committed in Welles, Nevada.  The police found the murder weapon in his car while Rhoades was playing blackjack in a casino.  He was tried for each crime separately.  In March 1988 he was sentenced to death for the murder of an Idaho Falls teacher.  In May of the same year he was sentenced to death for the murder of a convenient store clerk in Blackfoot. 

His convictions and sentencing have been reviewed and affirmed by the Idaho Supreme Court in 1991.  His appeals to the U.S. District Court, the 9^th Circuit Court of Appeals, and the United States Supreme Court have all been denied.  His attorneys filed an appeal as late as November 15, 2011 with the 9^th Circuit claiming the process used in Idaho, if not performed properly, will result in cruel and unusual punishment, violating his rights protected by the 8^th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.  His appeal was again denied.

When I investigate the legal rationale for having the Death Penalty as a sentencing option, I find two reasons; deterrence and retribution.  The courts believe if a person is aware the death penalty is a possibility if they were to commit a capital crime, they may reconsider.  The courts also believe a criminal must understand how unacceptable their actions are within a civilized society and should be punished to the fullest extent of the law permitted within the Constitution, which is death.

Catholics have opposed the death penalty in nearly all cases.  The belief of the church is only God has the ability to take a life. 

Do you agree or disagree with the ideas of deterrence and retribution for capital crimes?  Do you think the death penalty is a deterrent for capital crimes?  What do you think of the death penalty from a moral viewpoint? 

Veteran's Day

November 11 is Veteran’s Day in the United States.  It is a day to remember the men and women who have dedicated their lives to protecting the American way of life.  Through the years these individuals have put their safety and well-being in jeopardy in the name of freedom, liberty, and justice.  We owe all former and current members of our armed services a great deal of gratitude.

Whether or not you agree with the involvement of our military around the world, the support of our troops is necessary.  It is not the soldier who decides where to go, they take orders.  They go where they are needed and where they are asked to go.  It is a difficult life.  In addition to risking their life, they are often separated from their families for months on end.  They give up the comforts of Saturday afternoon football games, microwave popcorn, and a nice fireplace in exchange for tents in the middle of the desert.

It is fitting we dedicate a day during the year to remember those brave men and women who truly understand what it means to be called to duty.

What are your thoughts on Veteran’s Day?  What ways can you personally honor our veterans and current military members?  What do you think life would be like in the armed services today?

Most Powerful People in the World

Forbes Magazine released its list of the 70 most powerful people in the world this week.  The top 10 include the heads of state of the United States, Germany, Great Britain, China, and Russia, the King of Saudi Arabia, a retired CEO, a precocious 27 year old, the Federal Reserve Chairman, and the Pope.

Forbes is famous for its frequent lists of various things.  They rank the richest, the best, and the most powerful.  They rank women, companies, men, colleges, and countries.  Their lists are intriguing to the public fascinated with the ideas of wealth and power.

The 10 Most Powerful People according to Forbes from top to bottom are:

1.       Barack Obama – President of the United States

2.       Vladimir Putin – Prime Minister, Russia

3.       Hu Jintao – President, The People’s Republic of China

4.       Angela Merkel – Chancellor, Germany

5.       Bill Gates – Co-Chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates’ Foundation

6.       Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz al Saud – King of Saudi Arabia

7.       Pope Benedict XVI – Pope, Roman Catholic Church

8.       Ben Bernanke – Chairman of the Federal Reserve Board, United States of America

9.       Mark Zuckerberg – Founder, Facebook

10.     David Cameron- Prime Minister, United Kingdom

For a complete lists go to:  http://www.forbes.com/powerful-people/

Why do you think the readers of Forbes are interested in the ranking Forbes publishes every so often?  What do you think of Forbes’ list of the most powerful people in the world?  Do you agree or disagree?  Does anyone surprise you?  Do you think there is somebody who should be in the top ten that is not?  If so, who?

Occupy Wall Street

Since September 17, 2011, hundreds and thousands of protestors have been demonstrating in the financial district of New York City.  They have demonstrated for the most part, within the law, but at times have become unruly.  When the protest first began, many thought the momentum would fade and the protestors would clear in a few days.  That has not been the case.  The movement has grown with more people from all over the country.  The ideas have spread to cities across the United States and across the world.  On October 15, the protests went global with groups demonstrating in Cairo, Egypt, London, England, Rome Italy, and a plethora of other cities throughout the world.

It has become apparent; the ideas of the group of people which began in New York are shared amongst people all over the world.  They are outraged over the current economic conditions of their communities, states, nations, and world.  They believe the fate of the world should not be driven by the elite few which steer economic and social policies that we are all paying for.  They want answers to why the banks and other multi-national companies are being bailed out, especially at the expense of the thousands of people who have lost their homes and jobs.  They want to be heard. 

The consensus among bystanders is split.  While many Americans may agree with the idea of limiting government bail outs and the influence of the elite 1% of the wealthiest people over public policy, not all agree with the ongoing protest or with the individuals participating.  It seemed ironic when one protestor shared with reporters he had quit his job in Texas to come to New York and protest about unemployment?!? 

Equally concerning is their lack of demands.  You have to ask yourself “how does this end?”  While the protestors can agree about the problem, they are not united on the solution.   It seems many of the demonstrators are great with the idea of protesting, but seem to lack clarity when asked what they want. 

Watch a video, talk to your parents, read and article and answer the following.  What do you think about the protests?  Who do think is responsible for the current financial crisis?  How do you think it should end?

Steve Jobs 1955-2011

Sadly reported this week was the death of Steve Jobs.  Maybe you have or have not heard his name, but his impact on the world will long be remembered and his presence will be missed, particularly in the technology industry. 

As the co-founder of Apple computers in the 1970s, he has demonstrated a commitment to the same ideas for close to 40 years, create something for people that is simple and helpful.  From the first Apple computer and its quirky operating system to the iPad and its 140,000 apps, he has been the catalyst to product innovation and development. 

His ideas have changed the way we listen to and purchase music, raised our expectations concerning our mobile phones, and have given us an easy-to-use home computer that is the size of a notepad.  He has provided the vision and taken the risks many would not.  He has questioned the status quo and made many decisions based on his gut not on market research.  He has been the leader in making technology not only useful by stylish.

Innovation is difficult.  It requires vision, creativity, and guts.  To most, it is easier to improve on something as oppose to creating something no one has ever seen before.  His ability to innovate was one of the many unique qualities of Steve Jobs that will be missed.

Besides the computer itself, what do you think is the coolest technology product ever released?  Why?  What do you think is required to be an innovator?  What more can be done in school to inspire innovation?

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Since 1985, October has been designated Breast Cancer Awareness Month.   It is an entire month dedicated to increasing awareness and educating the public of the causes and treatments of breast cancer.  While the organization continues the mission to educate year round, they take one month of the year to pour extra effort into the campaign.

If you pay close attention, you can find pink ribbons throughout the community.  My daughters’ soccer team not only has a pink ribbon on their regular uniform, they have also invested in a completely pink uniform to signify the club’s support of education and awareness on breast cancer.  If you watch football on Sundays, the NFL has joined the campaigned.  You will see different teams with some sort of pink accent, whether it be gloves, shoes, or towels. 

Cancer is when cells in the body become abnormal and begin to divide without control or order.  Breast cancer is when this process occurs in the breast tissue of both women and men.  Cells dividing without order can cause excess tissue which forms a mass called a tumor.  While most tumors are not cancerous, many are.  The invasion of these malignant tumors can cause additional damage to other tissue and organs.

In 2009, there was an approximate 192,370 cases of breast cancer diagnosed.  That number includes 1,910 men.  In the same year there were 40,610 deaths including 440 men.  There are approximately 2.5 million survivors.  It is the second most common type of cancer in women (skin cancer is first) and the second leading cause of cancer related deaths to women (lung cancer is first).  With such a wide spread disease, it is difficult to find anyone who has not been effected or experienced breast cancer in some way, either with a relative, spouse or friend.

It would be difficult to measure the total impact of the various campaigns supporting breast cancer awareness, it is true that we have seen a significant decrease is the number of incidents (2% decline) and death (2% decline) in the last ten to fifteen years.

What do you think about having a month dedicated to breast cancer awareness?  Are there other diseases which could benefit from starting similar campaigns?  If so, what disease and why?

Global Recession?

This week experienced some substantial ups and downs in the financial world leaving many people questioning if we are headed back into a global recession.  While it may seem as though we never recovered, according to economists, the last recession which began in 2006 ended approximately two years ago.  The steady but slow recovery process has been met with constant questions and setbacks.

This week the stock market plunged.  Although it was up on Friday, the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 6% for the week.  This represents close to a trillion dollars.  In addition, the value of gold took a huge drop today, finishing the week below $1,700 per ounce. 

As the week concluded, all eyes have turned to Europe.  It is extremely likely Greece is going to default on its debt.  While other European nations have done what they can to prop up Greece, the effects of their situation will have shock waves across the globe.  In addition Italy and Spain are showing signs of potential problems in the near future.

What do you know about the economy?  How do you think a global recession will impact our community and you personally?  What should be done to fix the economy?  (I need creative and imaginative ideas. Remember there are no bad ideas)

The Lion King

On September 16, 2011 Disney is re-releasing one of its most beloved films of all time.  The Lion King is due out in theatres across the country, this time in 3D.  Originally released in 1994, The Lion King is a story depicting the coming of age of a young lion cub destined to be king of the jungle.  After losing his father at a young age as a result of his uncle’s murderous plot to take over the kingdom, Simba chooses to run away for a life with no worries.  He is called back by a dear friend after his Uncle Scar has all but destroyed the kingdom.  Simba battles and defeats his uncle restoring the kingdom and the society to its natural order.

The story is a classic rendition of Shakespeare’s Hamlet, using a background and artistry never seen before.  The movie grossed over $783 million worldwide not to mention the incredible profits from merchandise including coloring books, costumes, water bottles, lunch boxes, and stuffed animals. It is the sixth highest grossing animated film of all time and the highest grossing hand-drawn animated film ever.

The Lion King is a movie everyone should see.  It will make you laugh, cry, and rejoice as you journey with Simba from his childhood to adulthood.

What was your favorite childhood movie?  Why?  What do you think of the animated movies produced today?  What kind of influence can movies have on children and our society?

Tenth Anniversary - September 11th

This Sunday marks the 10^th anniversary of one of the most tragic days in modern American history.  While the day began as any other day, it would end with images and stories of unfathomable death and destruction.  It was a day no one saw coming and no one will ever forget.

While truly tragic, it was also a day which demonstrated the incredible will and strength of the human spirit.  There were as many stories of heroism as there was destruction.  We witnessed countless acts of bravery and selflessness.  And these are only the stories we know.  Many of the incredible stories forever died with the victims.

The following is a brief timeline of the day’s events.

At 8:45 am, the first plane crashed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center.  The crash instantly killed hundreds of innocent people and trapped hundreds more above the 110^th floor.  While emergency crews sprang into action, a mere 18 minutes later, a second plane crashed into the South Tower.  It was evident to all, this was not a coincidence, the United States was under attack. 

At 9:45 am, a third plane crashed into the Pentagon.  The jet fuel caused a devastating fire causing a small structural collapse. 

15 minutes after the Pentagon crash, the South Tower collapsed.  It was less than one hour from the time the plane crashed into the building to when it fell to the ground.

 At 10:10, the country became aware of a fourth plane wreck.  United Flight 93 had left the Newark airport late.  40 minutes after departure, terrorists took control of the plane.  The passengers on the plane, aware of the events of New York and Washington, decided to take action.  They overtook the terrorist and in the process crashed the plane into a Pennsylvanian field.  All aboard were killed instantly.

At 10:30, the inevitable occurred.  The North Tower of the World Trade Center collapsed.  While the nation watched in awe, the brave firefighters, police officers and other city officials continued to respond to their call to duty.  Due to the devastation created when the Twin Towers collapsed, four other building would fall to the ground during the day. 

As the day concluded we began to hear the devastating carnage from the day.  In New York City approximately 3,000 people were killed, including 343 firefighter and paramedics, 23 police officers and 37 Port Authority officers.  In Washington, DC, 125 military personnel and civilians were killed at the Pentagon in addition to the 64 people on board the flight.  An additional 45 people were killed in the Pennsylvanian field from Flight 93.

What do you know about the events of September 11^th?   Do you think this is a day of tragedy or triumph for the United States?  How do you think the day should be remembered and commemorated?

Bob Marley

May 11 marks the thirtieth anniversary of the death of Bob Marley.  If you think his death was just another unfortunate end to a musician, you would be wrong.  Bob Marley was revolutionary in his music and his message.  He used his art to inspire millions of people in developed and developing countries to look for peace and acceptance.  He hoped to inspire people to stand up for themselves, their rights and the rights of others. 

Bob Marley was born Robert Nesta Marley in a poor village in Jamaica.  His father was a white Jamaican-born, British national and his mother was a black Jamaican.  His mixed ethic background led to considerable ridicule and abuse during Marley’s childhood.  His father left the family when he was young having little contact with his son. 

Bob soon found acceptance through music.  While living in Trench Town, a poverty stricken part of Kingston, he met his childhood and musical friends, Bunny Livingston and Peter McIntosh (later known as Peter Tosh).   Together they would explore the music of reggae and ska.  The three would form a group called the Wailing Wailers and released their first record in 1964.  They gained extensive notoriety throughout Jamaica, but it would be another 11 years until their music was widely played in England and 12 years until they would have their first American hit. 

During this time, Bob’s music and message took on a more spiritual and political nature.  Exploring the religion of Rastafarian, Marley reached the hearts and minds of millions of Third World citizens.  Their first American hit “War” was based on a speech by Ethiopian leader Halle Selassie.  His controversial political views and his continued support of the Peoples Nation Party in Jamaica led to an assassination attempt in 1976.  Bob was shot twice, once in the sternum and once in the bicep.  While not being mortally wounded, Bob refused to allow the sustained injuries to prevent him from playing the scheduled show days later.

1977 proved to be a significant year in his life.  First, he and his band released the album Exodus.  The album was such a huge success its singles stayed on the charts for the next three tears.  Songs including “Waiting in Vain”, “Exodus”, and “Jammin’” make this one of the best albums ever released.  In addition, 1977 included the discovery of cancerous cells in his toes.  While his religious belief prevented him from current medical procedures, he found some relief through natural remedies.

He was able to continue to create and inspire for another four year until in 1981 the cancer spread throughout his body.  His funeral was attended by over 30,000 people in Jamaica.  Before his death he was awarded the Order of Merit from the Jamaican government and the Medal of Peace from the United Nations in 1980. 

His music still inspires people today.  His message of peace, unity and strength are as relevant today as they were 30+ years ago.  He is revered in his homeland and in many African nations.

 

Do you or have you ever listened to Bob Marley’s music?  If so, do you like it?  Do you think music can change the world?  Why or why not?  What music do you listen to and why?  Are there any artists today trying to change the world through their craft?  Who and how?

Death of Osama bin Laden

On Sunday evening around 8:45 pm, our regular scheduled television shows were interrupted with breaking news.  The news would inspire patriotism, relief, anxiety, and trepidation across the United States and the world.  The news:  Osama bin Laden is dead.

It has been close to 10 years since the bin Laden became a popular terrorist icon and known across the country as the face and mind behind the elusive and deadly terrorist organization “al-Qaida”.  Even though he created this organization in 1988, it would not be until 2001 when he and his cohorts become a household name.  The fateful day in September would forever change Americans and our sense of security in the world. 

News of his death spread quickly on Sunday evening.  Hours before President Obama addressed the nation, people from coast to coast were spreading the news through social media.  ESPN and other news affiliates were able to capture the looks of joy and relief on the faces of those attending the Phillies/Mets baseball game.  The crowd went as far to begin chanting “U-S-A”.  In other cities, people gathered at capitol buildings, statehouses, and other public forums to celebrate the triumph of freedom and the demise of terrorism. 

In the days since we have become increasingly aware of the details behind the mission.  We have been made aware of the use of SEAL Team Six and their need for anonymity.  We have learned about the proper Muslim burial bin Laden was granted.  We have learned of the existence of pictures of the event, which will not be released.  We have learned that although the leader of this feared terrorist organization is dead, we are still not completely secure.  Security at airports, military instillations, and other public and government building are on heightened security.

What do you think about the death of Osama bin Laden?  How will this impact the United States and Homeland Security?  Although you were very young on September 11, how do you think this event will impact the lives of those directly involved and victimized by the 9/11 terrorist attack? 

The Royal Wedding

Not since the wedding on Prince Charles and Lady Diana has there been such an anticipated nuptial event.  The April 29^th wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton has experience wide and extensive media coverage across the United States. 

Every aspect of their relationship and wedding preparations has been covered in the news somehow.  If you walk up and down the aisle of any grocery store, the tabloids are riddled with stories.  Everything from what they are wearing, to who is invited, to the cost of the event has been reported in print and on the internet.

It intrigues me as to why this event is so seemingly important to the people of the United States.  It is interesting in our country, which fought against the ideas of monarchies, finds such fascination with the British Royal family.   One possible explanation is our constant need to celebrate and elevate celebrities in society.  Another is society may still have a need to have kings and queens, princes and princesses in our world.  With all the war, tension and stress in the world, we may need to take a break and bask in the idea of royalty.  Regardless, I would not be surprised to find many people I know that are planning on waking up at 4:00 am Friday morning to watch the event live.  (This would include my wife if she didn’t enjoy her sleep so much)

Why do you think the Royal Wedding is so popular in the United States?  What do you think of the British Royal family?  Is the royal family still necessary to Great Britain?  Do we still need the idea of royalty in the world? 

Facebook in China

What would you be willing to do to gain 420 million friends?  This question is facing the CEO and executives of Facebook as they explore the opportunity to enter the Chinese market.  To date Facebook, Twitter and other social networking sites are banned in China.

The Chinese government has tight control of information and information access of its 420 million citizens with internet access.  The country has a custom of restricting free speech.  Its record on not only suppressing free speech, but violating the human rights of people and organizations willing to engage in free speech has been criticized by foreign governments as well as reputable organization such as Amnesty International. 

While Facebook has been banned in China since 2008, it is being reported current Facebook executives are negotiating with Chinese officials to lift the ban.  Initial terms reported would include restricting certain content from being shared and displayed on Facebook.  Furthermore, Facebook would have to allow the Chinese government access to the search and retrieval activities of Chinese users.  The government would be able to determine what the users can view and monitor what they are searching for.  If you think it is a hassle when you parents monitor you account, imagine what it would be like to know the government will be looking in.

China’s concern over open internet usage and social networking heightened in recent months given the use of social media in the Middle East to coordinate rallies and protests of governments in Egypt and Libya. 

While the partnership is only speculative for now, Facebook has publically stated they may be willing to block certain content from some countries.  They recognize the idea of complete and total free speech may be more than some countries are able to absorb given their current cultural and social situations.

What do you think of Facebook filtering content to gain access to China?  Do you have a Facebook account?  If so, how do you use Facebook?  If not, why not?  What are some of the potential dangers of Facebook?  Do your parents monitor your activity?  If so, what do you think about them looking in?

Earth Day

April 22 marks the 31 Earth Day in the United States.  The idea for a day dedicated to the environment originated 7 years earlier by Senator Gaylord Nelson.  He was concerned over the lack to awareness and regulations of the pollutants being released into our world. 

Now more than 30 years later, Earth Day and its organizers have increased public awareness of pollutants, identified and promoted “green” acts, have leveraged our schools and communities to enhance the knowledge and dedication of our youth to the cause, and countless other accomplishments. 

The Earth Day websites is tracking personal pledged to commit “green” acts.  The pledges include recycling grocery bags, unplugging appliances, recycle paper and plastic, and buying more local food.  While each of these acts may seem futile on their own, the impact of the collected group across the globe will have a significant impact on our environment, especially over an extended period of time.  To date the website has over 80 million personal pledges. 

What do you think of Earth Day?  What are some additional ways we can support Earth Day at school and in our community?  What are things you do at home?  Are there any additional activities you would be willing to commit to at home to support “green” living?

Government Shut Down

It is a stand-off.  If congress and the president are unable to find a compromise concerning current year spending, as of Friday midnight, the federal government is no longer able to spend funds and we will see the first government shut down since 1996.

 Unbeknownst to most Americans, congress has not passed an approved budget for the current fiscal year, which began in October.  Without a budget, the government has been operating using continuing resolutions.  Continuing resolutions are temporary agreements to allow the government to continue to operate under the terms of the previous budget until congress can complete the budget. 

The current continuing resolution is set to expire on Friday, April 8^th at 11:59 pm.  Without a budget agreement or another resolution the government will force the partial shutdown of federal agencies across the country.  Only military, law enforcement and agencies providing health care activities will remain open.

The primary issue dividing the congressional parties is concerning government borrowing, collection of money through taxation and spending. The Republicans have rejected ideas to increase the government’s borrowing limits and want to slow the rate of spending. The Republican House members have proposed a $61 billion spending cut for the next six months.   They are targeting discretionary spending for agencies such as the Coast Guard, Environmental Protection Agency and National Parks.  Although there is talk about entitlement programs such as Medicaid and Social Security, any spending cuts are not included in this proposal.  While $61 billion may seem like a significant amount, it represents 1.6% of the federal government expenditures (roughly 5-6 days spending).

They are trying to reach common ground, but resolution seems more unlikely as we approach Friday.  According to a NBC/New York Times poll, 37% of the population blames the Republican congressional members, 20% blames the Democratic congressional members and 20% blames President Obama.  Even with the political pressures from polling, neither side appears to want to give in as of yet.

What do you think about our government operating without a budget? What do you think about the idea of spending decreases given the nation’s current economic situation?  Who will you blame if the government is forces to suspend operations on Friday?  If the government is shut down, how do you think it may impact you?

Fighting in Libya

Beginning this weekend, the United States and other allied forces have joined together in an effort to protect the rebellious civilians from Colonel Gadhafi and his Libyan forces.  This show of force comes weeks after many of the Libyan citizens began protesting the current government and demanding massive reform.  Their cries for change have been greeted with violence from Gadhafi. 

In early statements Gadhafi has claimed to be a patriot, fighter, revolutionary and a martyr.  He has vowed to burn the country to the ground before he would be willing to give up his reign.  He has held true to his words and continues to promote violence while protecting his power.

While the United States is not the only country committing troops to this action, President Obama’s actions have come under criticism at home.  Congressional members are questioning the president’s authority to commit troops to military actions without congressional approval.  Constitutionally speaking only Congress can declare war.  But is this war or is this military action required to halt an actual or imminent threat to civil liberties?  Presidents throughout our history have called the military to action without congressional approval when facing probable threats to the safety of individuals. 

The War Power Act of 1973 allows the president to utilize military force only when the United States in under attack or once Congress has voted to engage in war.  Every president since Nixon has questioned the War Powers constitutionality.  The president is constitutionally allowed to protect national security and protect and promoted the United States interest in foreign policy situations.

What are your thoughts concerning the United States and military action in Libya?  Do you think President Obama was justified in calling our military forces into action, or should he have asked for congressional approval first?  How would you like to see things end in Libya?

Tragedy in Japan

As people across the United States woke up on March 10, we were informed by the local, national, and cable news channels of the devastating earthquake which shook Japan and created a tsunami which made its way all the way to the coast of California.  The 8.9 earthquake was the fifth largest in recorded history and the biggest to ever shake Japan. 

The initial earthquake struck at 2:45 in the afternoon.  The epicenter was on the northeastern coast of the island nation.  Its effects were felt as far as Tokyo, hundreds of miles away.  The nation not only received substantial damage from the quake, its strength triggered a 23 foot tsunami.  The tsunami wreaked havoc on everything in its path including boats, cars, farmland, highways, airports, and rails. 

Japan continues to feel the aftershocks.  About every fifteen minutes aftershocks, some registering more than 6.0 on the Richter scale, have continued to disrupt the nation.

We are now many days past the event and the bad news continues.  In addition to surmising the devastation, thousands of people are still missing.  The death toll constantly increases as more people and bodies are discovered.  The people are without electricity, shelter, and basic necessities.  If you are lucky and have the means, you can wait upwards of five hour to purchase gasoline.

In addition, there is an ongoing threat of nuclear meltdown.  Japan has invested in nuclear energy to power its nation.  While a reasonable alternative energy source, it comes with concerns.  Those concerns are front and center in the cities across Japan as nuclear meltdowns become a possibility.    There have been multiple explosions within the plants.  The crews have worked diligently to prevent dangerous levels of radiation from being released in the air.

This story is far from over.  The death toll will continue to rise, the tragic tales seem to be endless, and while foreign and domestic aid will be there to help, it will be many years before Japan will be returned to it prominent state.

What have you heard about the earthquake in Japan?  How should the United States help the Japanese people?  What can we do here at St. Joseph’s to aid the people of Japan?

Idaho Education Reform

The most dominating story in our local news has to be the education reform bills proposed by Idaho Superintendent, Tom Luna.  The series of bills are intended to address to stagnant or even declining performance of our state’s school along with looking for ways to address budget issues.  The budget issues not only include reducing the total amount of money spent on education in the state, but further review where is the money best spent.

The highlights of the bill include increase the average class size across the state, reducing the number of teachers by over 700, and increasing the usage of technology in our education system by providing laptops access to high school students and requiring a certain number of classes to be taken on-line.

The proposals have caused uproar from parents, teachers, administrators, and students.  There are many questions about the research, rationale, and benefits from the proposal.  While most public debate has been civil, there have been a few acts of vandalism committed against Tom Luna and his family.  Most recently, high school students have organized walk outs from school to protest the bills.  While the pessimist would say the students left school for the sake of leaving school, the optimist says it is great to see students take an active part in their education.

What have you heard about education reform in Idaho?  What do you think about people’s reactions to the bills including the recent student walkout?  What do like about your education to date?  What do you think could be done differently to enhance your education?

Trouble In Libya

Throughout the week, we have become aware of further political unrest in the African continent.  It seems like the dust has just begun to settle in Egypt when new protests are appearing in Libya.  Unfortunately, the Libyan reaction has been considerably different than the Egyptian response. 

The reaction from the Libyan leader has been defiant and threatening.  Moammar Gadhafi, the Libya leader, has been in charge of Libya for the past 41 years.  He has been linked to terrorist activities along with violations of civil rights of his people amongst other charges of corruption throughout his reign. 

The Libyan people, inspired by the events of Egypt and Tunisia, have decided they want a new leader.  They are no longer going to stand by and accept the cruel and corrupt actions of the government.  Somewhat predictable, Gadhafi has publically admonished the protestors, indirectly encouraged violence against them and has hired mercenaries to help restore his order.  Fighter planes have fired upon civilian protesters while paid military personnel have threatened violence and death to anyone choosing the side against Gadhafi.

Gadhafi has claimed he had not given any orders to fire shots, but when he does he will burn the country to the ground.  He will fill the streets with the blood of the protesters.  He claims to be a fighter, a revolutionary and a willingness to be a martyr before he will give up his control.

The loyal military and mercenaries continue to harass protesters and the United Nations have issued warning to the government about the unwarranted killings of civilians.  At the same time, gas prices have soared to new levels as the speculation of a drawn out civil war and restricted access to Middle Eastern oil reserves heightens.

What is your reaction to the revolutions taking place in Libya, Egypt, and Tunisia?  What is the job of the United Nations?  How should the United Nations respond?   Should the United States do anything to assist the region? Or should we wait for the direction of the United Nations?

Presidents' Day

Monday is President’s Day.  You all will be enjoying an extra day off, possibly recovering from the Hallissey weekend.  Often with our holidays, we take the day but have little knowledge of the history or the significance of the celebration.

The federal holiday is actual called “Washington’s Birthday” and was first celebrated in 1880 in the District of Columbia.   In 1885 in was spread to all federal offices to commemorate our first president.  In 1971 the holiday was moved from Washington’s actual birthday to the third Monday in February as part of the Uniform Monday Holiday Act.  Ironically, with the decision to move to day’s recognition to the third Monday, we will never again celebrate Washington’s Birthday on his birthday of February 22.

In the 1970’s and 1980’s there have been proposals to rename the holiday President’s Day to include the birthday of Abraham Lincoln, February 12, as part of the recognition.  Although never passed at the federal level, as many as a dozen states have revised the holiday to commemorate Abe Lincoln as well as the contributions of all our presidents.

It is important to spend time to recognize those individuals who have sacrificed so much to serve our country as president.  While many have done a mediocre job at best, many more have demonstrated leadership beyond compare, astounding courage, incredible foresight, and a loyalty to our nation and its value which should be respected and emulated. 

Throughout your life, you have had three presidents, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barrack Obama.  In addition, during school you have heard or learned about many more, whether that be George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, Teddy Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, or Ronald Reagan. 

Who is your favorite president and why?  Which presidential story inspires you the most?  As a nation should we do more to commemorate the office of the president and the men (and someday women) who have served?

Black History Month

Since 1976, the United States and Canada have recognized February as Black History Month.  The idea to dedicate time to the contributions of African Americans was originated in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson.   His vision was to increase the awareness of people and communities to the significant additions African Americans have made to the overall history of the United States. 

His vision has grown since 1926 to include an entire month where elementary, junior high and high school students take time to learn about notable figures and accomplishments of African Americans.

Black History Month’s annual celebration has come with its fair share of criticism.  From questioning the need to dedicate an entire month to a single race to complaints about the month chosen being the shortest month of the year, the opinions are as varied as they can be outlandish.

Regardless, the idea to educate ourselves about the historical influence countless African Americans have had on our country and communities is with merit.  It is a time to dig past the dates and names to attempt to put you in the shoes of race of people who have struggled to gain an equal footing in the United States. 

Without Black History Month we may be familiar but not as cognizant of the incredible feats of Martin Luther King, Jr., Rosa Parks, Frederick Douglas, or Maya Angelou.  The contributions African Americans have made to the fabric of the United States are without question. 

Throughout the history of the United States which African Americans have inspired you and why?  The person you choose can be as recent as Tiger Woods or as old as Frederick Douglas.  They person can be real or fictional.  Which stories resonate with you?  For example, Rosa Parks or Ruby Bridges.