krucial KORNER

IRS Visits Business For Four Cents

2010-03-16T18:00:00.000-04:00

The article can be read HERE, but let me give you the synopsis:

The IRS sent two agents to a car wash demanding payment for delinquent taxes. The amount of taxes owed came to a whopping four cents (which magically grew to $202.35 in taxes/penalties over a three year period).

I'm sorry, gubbment, but a phone call wouldn't have sufficed? It's obvious that they are in desperate need to collect every penny (literally) to cover the proposed health care plan.

CDA2

Woman's Quest To Weigh 1,000 lbs

2010-03-16T06:00:00.005-04:00

A New Jersey woman currently tops the scales over 600 pounds... and says that is not enough. Donna Simpson says her goal is to reach a nice, full-figured, round number of 1,000 pounds. For the twisted, she displays videos of herself eating at this link (For the record, I have no problem watching car crashes, explosions, etc. but could not bring myself to viewing that link). She uses a motor scooter to travel because walking more than 20 feet is tiresome. She downs 12,000 calories per day (the average American eats about 2,000).

Research has proven that 87% of health care costs are attributed to lifestyle choices, rather than "natural selection." As an American, it is her right to eat as much as she wants. It is her choice to gorge herself to the point that where she ends and the sofa begins is anyone's guess. But with that said, it is also her responsibility to pay for the health care needs she is undoubtedly going to have.

It's a shame that, according to Rasmussen, as many as 43% of Americans are for a health care plan that will continue to allow Ms Simpson eat, drink, and be merry... all on taxpayer dollars.

CDA2

Don't Bring A Knife To A Gunfight

2010-03-15T18:00:00.000-04:00

Denying one the right to self-defend, denies him/her their most basic inalienable human right: The RIGHT TO LIVE! Remember, when seconds count, the police are "only" minutes away!

In Memphis, Tennessee, a man armed with a knife caused chaos as he chased customers at a local Family Dollar. After chasing customers out of the store, he began chasing cars on the parking lot. The situation ended when the knife attacker came to the driver's side window one vehicle and and lunged at the driver. The driver pulled his firearm and shot the attacker multiple times. The attacker's selfish behavior caused this law-abiding citizen to stop him while protecting his life... and possibly the lives of his daughters. Understandably, one of his daughters was visibly shaken after witnessing this tragedy.

Live by the knife, die by the gun.

CDA2

Fla. Woman Dies While Fasting

2010-03-15T06:00:00.028-04:00

A 55-year-old woman in central Florida died last month while locked away in her room fasting and praying. The fast was to last one week but ultimately, it was a month before her family discovered her body. Her husband, a Pentecostal preacher, wanted to respect her privacy and assumed her lengthy stay was her doing "what God called her to do."

For the record, the cause of death has NOT yet been determined. Assuming her death came as a result of this practice, can one assume that "fasting" is a dangerous activity? According to the American Cancer Society, fasting longer than five days can have serious negative impacts on the body. In fact, it recommends that any fast more than week should be closely monitored and take place at a spa, resort, or a similar facility. I know many churches that routinely practice monthlong fasts. I don't know anyone that has passed away or have had serious negative effects to their bodies (that we know of). Does that make it "safe?"

CDA2

Suspect Dies In Home Invasion Gunfight

2010-03-14T17:00:00.000-04:00

Denying one the right to self-defend, denies him/her their most basic inalienable human right: The RIGHT TO LIVE! Remember, when seconds count, the police are "only" minutes away!

Outside, n Houston, a homeowner was forced to defend his life by firing several shots at would be home invaders. Unfortunately, the homeowner, who has not been identified, was also harmed during the shooting but will recover quickly. The two criminals burst into his home with guns drawn. The victim, also armed with a weapon, began exchanging fire. One of the suspects (an adult) died at the scene. The juvenile was shot in the foot and taken into custody.

At some point, "takers" will have to realize that being a "worker" is much safer and more respectable. Until then, always stayed armed, vigilant, and ready.

CDA2

Stop Living On Our Sidewalks

2010-03-12T17:00:00.019-05:00

The estimated number of homeless people in Jacksonville, Florida tops 1500. During the winter months, hundreds of them line up outside of the city's only homeless shelter with hopes of getting one of the 300 beds. The others slowly place cardboard or quilts on the ground, and lay down, side by side, on the cold sidewalk just outside the City Rescue Mission.

Lately, police have cracked down on city ordinance regarding trash and obstruction and are forcing the homeless to "remove their trash" (which is in essence, their personal belongings). Many of the homeless sleep on the sidewalk outside of the mission because it is a "safe zone." Many of them have been mugged, beaten, and robbed when they stray away from the group. It's no coincidence that the actions taken by the officers came just days after Mayor Peyton vowed to move the homeless from Laura Street as a part of the city's downtown renovation pledge.

Thoughtlessness by the city leaders? Or a last resort to a growing problem? If they really think it's the latter, how is bothering the less fortunate on a daily basis a solution?

CDA2

Dept of Education To Buy 27 Shotguns

2010-03-12T06:30:00.002-05:00

It takes a lot to have me at a loss of words. You can thank the Department of Education for finding a way to shut me up.

I can see the need for them though:

Kindergartener: Mrs Smith, I don't feel like taking a nap right now.

Mrs Smith pumps the handle on her Remington 12 guage.

Kindergartner: "Zzzzzzzz."

On the bright side, this would certainly be an improvement over the "No Child Left Behind" program.

CDA2

NYC Legislature Wants Your Salt Shaker

2010-03-12T05:00:00.000-05:00

Felix Ortiz, Democratic Assemblyman from New York, believes that the government needs to help you decide when to pass the salt. He introduced a bill that reads, "No owner or operator of a restaurant in this state shall use salt in any form in the preparation of any food for consumption by customers of such restaurant, including food prepared to be consumed on the premises of such restaurant or off of such premises." Yet another reason why I believe New York (city and state) is the armpit of American politics (Chicago is another smelly body part.

Any food/drink taken in excess can be bad for one's health. What's next? Will lawmakers limit the amount of WATER we are allowed to drink daily? Where does this type of gubbment control end, folks?

CDA2

Crude Comments=Bad; 7 Kids, 6 Mothers, 5 States=Good

2010-03-11T05:00:00.011-05:00

Let me get this straight. Rush Limbaugh, who's made a career of flammable comments, was essentially kicked off a group to purchase the Rams after pressure from the NFL commissioner and the president of the Players Union because he's seen as divisive. The argument was that controversial members of the NFL, do not represent the NFL. So, since when did fathering seven children by six mothers in five states become a non-trivial act? Recently acquired New York Jets cornerback, Antonio Cromartie, has done just that. Apparently his ball skills are superior off the field as well. What's interesting about this is that the New York Jets (in brokering his new deal), fronted him $500K to assist him with his overdue child support payments so that it wouldn't become a distraction. I suppose having enough kids to have a basketball team (plus two reserves) calling you "daddy" can't be a distraction at all.

Dude, you have officially entered Shawn Kemp and Travis Henry territory. Get is snipped and clipped, brother.

CDA2

Jihad Jane Looks Like My Neighbors

2010-03-10T17:00:00.001-05:00

What do you do when your enemy looks like you, talks like you, and can infiltrate virtually any business or organization withing your borders?

Meet "Jihad Jane." You read that correctly. This isn't a soccer mom. This isn't a white supremacist. She's a recent convert to the radical side of Islam who is every "let's just strip search every Muslim looking..." person's worst nightmare. She's being charged by federal authorities in a plot to kill on foreign soil, to provide material support to terrorists, and identity theft just to name a few. She is accused of using her MySpace account to recruit others to her cause of helping "desperate" Muslim people and she even stated that she wanted to become a martyr.

So much for only checking people that "look Middle-Eastern" at the airports.

CDA2

Big Ben, Serial Rapist?

2010-03-10T05:45:00.001-05:00

For the second time in two off-seasons, Ben Rothlisberger, starting quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers, is being accused of sexually assaulting a woman.

So, let me get this straight: Tiger has consensual, adult sex with several women. He loses multiple sponsors and is forced to apologize (although to some, even his apology wasn't good enough). Kobe has consensual, adult sex with one woman. He lost sponsors (for a short time) and is constantly criticized by many for his unfaithful act. Oh, but Big "where there's smoke, there's fire" Ben is accused for the second time of sexually assaulting someone. This time, with a woman who's not yet old enough to legally drink. Not one sponsor has released him. In fact, ESPN showed a Big Ben commercial just tonight! Speaking of the network... ESPN barely reported the story last year, and hesitantly reported on it this year.

Nope. No such thing as a double standard.

CDA2

Lil Wayne is a CHUMP

2010-03-09T15:00:00.001-05:00

Normally, I would write in support for someone who is going to jail for gun charge. After all, states/cities writing their own laws to deny the basic right to self defense is laughable. But in this instance, I simply want to "LOL" at the defendant. Dwayne Michael Carter (aka, Lil Wayne) was sentenced to one year in jail yesterday. Instead of serving his time at Rikers like a "man", Dwayne has requested that he serve his time in protective custody and be given special medical attention due to his massive dental problems. Let's start with the first. Dwayne, you say you're a member of the Bloods gang. You "soowoop" (A "Blood" call sign) on your raps. You're tatted up as if you've really done dirt and put in hard time. In one of your songs, you say:

"Hold On To Your Surf Board When The Gat Wave.
Homie, You Can Be Deleted Like Backspace.
I'm Coming Threw Like A Fax Page.
I'm Just A Gorilla In A Unlatched Cage"

(Please note, these are his lyrics and his spelling... not mine).

Dwayne, you spoke this into existence. Finally there's some truth to your raps. You will be a gorilla in a cage. A 5'6", 135-150 lb gorilla. A gorilla who wears skinny jeans. Stop hiding behind your money. If Bernie Madoff (who' never claimed to be a thug), can serve his life sentence in prison without preconditions, SURELY you can handle Rikers for 8-12 months! Practice what you preach, "gangsta."

CDA2

President Obama Can't Sell Watermelons

2010-03-09T07:49:00.000-05:00

Those dirty, nasty, racist Republicans are at it again. In speaking about the health care plan, Dan Rather stated that "Obama couldn't sell watermelons if it, you game him the state troopers to flag down the traffic." Wait. Dan Rather's not a conservative; he's a liberal! In that case, it's okay. Between Harry Reid and Chris Matthews, we all know liberals can make statements with racist undertones and never get thrown under the bus the way a conservative would.

CDA2

Church Shooting in Richmond

2010-02-15T21:30:00.001-05:00

Brazen is the word repeatedly used because it best describes this bold attack inside a church. I am confident that the police will catch these monsters. Hopefully, the judicial system will do its part and put them away for some time.

Based on early reports, we will soon learn that the shooting was not random. These thugs targeted this church, not for the purpose of a mass killing, but rather a particular victim(s) (after all, they were armed with one handgun between the three of them).

Many Christians believe churches are to accept just anyone as its members (the ole, "come as you are" mantra). Would you be willing to accept this as one of your church's principles even if it puts you and the rest of your parishioners at risk?

CDA2

Oprah and Drew Brees

2010-02-15T19:24:00.000-05:00

Clearly Oprah isn't a fan of football. At the least, she's never seen Drew Brees or a picture of Drew Brees. Watch Oprah's reaction to Drew's facial birthmark.

I thought Oprah was going out on top. So much for that!

CDA2

Chris Matthews "Forgot He Was Black"

2010-01-29T11:45:00.030-05:00

Chris Matthews loves for Obama. At times, he seems to almost lust after the president... especially after a speech.

But Matthews' remarks about the president after the State of the Union Address did not get the reaction Chris intended.

"He is post-racial, by all appearances. I forgot he was black tonight for an hour. You know, he's gone a long way to become a leader of this country, and past so much history, in just a year or two. I mean, it's something we don't even think about."

Clearly, Chris, his race is something you think about a lot. Let me ask this: why is his race considered a handicap? Chris, here is what many of us heard you say: "Wow. He speaks so well. His grammar is perfect. I'm so impressed that President Obama doesn't use Negro dialect."

In a way, this is almost as bad as Harry Reid's choice of words! He may as well have said, "You know, for the other 364 days and 23 hours, I am very aware the president is black." Chris, it's perfectly okay to view the president as black (or bi-racial). Last time I checked, being black wasn't supposed to be a bad thing.

CDA2

CBS May Air Gay Dating Ad During Super Bowl

2010-01-29T08:17:00.000-05:00

There has been a backlash this week from critics over the airing of a Focus on The Family ad featuring former Heisman Trophy winner, Tim Tebow. CBS agreed to air the un-seen, yet controversial, 30 second time slot during this year's Super Bowl. Proponents for the ad argue that one 30 second ad, during a game that will feature hundreds of other advertisements isn't that big of a deal.

With rumors that CBS is considering airing an ad for a gay dating site for men, I wonder if both sides will begin to sing a different song when it's all said and done.

Sit back, grab your popcorn, and enjoy the hypocrisy!

CDA2

White House Asks To Have Trial Moved

2010-01-29T07:41:00.000-05:00

Congratulations, Mr. President! Sources say that the White House has asked the Justice department to seek new locations for the 9/11 hijacker suspect's, KSM's, trial. This comes just one day after Mayor Bloomberg, one of the president's biggest supporters, called for the trial to be moved. By holding this trial in regular court, there are numerous safety concerns, and the cost to the city of New York is growing rapidly. This trial can reasonably be held in other cities and be far less expensive.

That's a huge win for proponents of the civil trial. The next step? Let's hold a military tribunal.

CDA2

Suspected Robber Shot 5-6 Times

2010-01-27T18:15:00.001-05:00

Denying one the right to self-defend, denies him/her their most basic inalienable human right: The RIGHT TO LIVE! Remember, when seconds count, the police are "only" minutes away!

A robbery suspect was shot and killed by his intended victim outside an East Atlanta Village bar. Atlanta police identified the slain man as Jamarcus Usher, 29, of the Decatur area. The man who opened fire in self defense is a 28-year-old who works in the airline industry and lives in a northern suburb of Atlanta. That night, the intended victim and his female companion made their way to the popular East Atlanta Village, known for its trendy bars and eateries. When they left a bar around 11:15 p.m., the man gave his date the keys to his Ford Ranger pickup truck so she could drive. Inside the vehicle, the woman was adjusting the driver’s seat and mirrors when the man looked over his shoulder and saw Jamarcus Usher standing at his passenger window. Believing the man was going to beg for money, the passenger rolled down his window a few inches. He asked the stranger what he wanted, and noticed Usher reaching for his waistband or pocket. Instinctively, the passenger shoved open his door, knocking the suspected robber back a few feet. The man got out of the truck and Usher raised a weapon at him. When the intended victim saw that, he opened fire hitting the suspected robber five or six times, in the stomach and chest. The robber did not fire any shots.

The intended victim told the police that he "fired until the guy was no longer a threat to him.” Thanks to your bravery, this menace will no longer be a threat to others in our society either.

CDA2

Study: Spanked Children Do Better As Adults

2010-01-27T16:45:00.000-05:00

A UK study was conducted which determined that young children spanked by their parents may grow up to be happier and more successful than those who have never been hit.

According to the research, children spanked up to the age of 6 were likely to perform better at school and were more likely to carry out volunteer work and to want to go to college than their peers who had never been physically disciplined. It also showed that children who continued to be spanked into adolescence showed clear behavioral problems.

Naturally, the "We will not raise your kids but we will tell you what is best for them" groups in the UK have tried several times to have physical chastisement by parents outlawed. However, Marjorie Gunnoe, professor of psychology at Calvin College in Michigan, said her study showed there was insufficient evidence to deny parents the freedom to choose how they discipline their children. “The claims made for not spanking children fail to hold up. They are not consistent with the data,” said Marjorie Gunnoe, professor of psychology at Calvin College in Michigan. “I think of spanking as a dangerous tool, but there are times when there is a job big enough for a dangerous tool. You just don’t use it for all your jobs.”

That is the BEST analogy to justify a whooping if I've ever heard one!

CDA2

Child Gets Surgery On Wrong Body Part

2010-01-27T12:24:00.003-05:00

Do you know anyone in Orange County, CA? If they have a child that needs care, you may want to recommend they do NOT visit Children's Hospital. A child received surgery on the wrong body part but a hospital statement claims no permanent harm was done. That's laughable. Are we supposed be reassured when they performed a surgery on the wrong body part in the first place?

The most terrifying part is this is actually the of third surgical mistake Children's Hospital in four years. In 2006, a surgeon cut into the wrong side of the skull during brain surgery. In 2007, tubes were inserted into both of a child's ears instead of one. And just last week, a surgeon was supposed to loosen a fold of tissue behind the child's upper lip but instead loosened tissue under the tongue. In all cases, the mistakes were corrected and the children sent home.

CDA2

Another SC Politician Strikes Again

2010-01-27T09:18:00.001-05:00

If you are a South Carolina tax-paying and voting resident, you should be absolutely ashamed of yourself right now. To say this has been a bad year for elected officials there is an understatement. First, your state governor cheated on wife with a woman in Argentina. Then, Congressman Joe Wilson delivered the now infamous, "You lie," during President Obama's health care speech. And the latest incident involves Leuitenant Governor, Andre Bauer (video below). I am sure you have heard one portion of his comments. PLEASE watch this 3 minute video with his FULL audio comments before sharing your opinion.

Watched it? Good! Surprisingly, there are moments of wisdom in the audio he enlightened us with his ignorance by comparing stray dogs to people who don't want to do better for themselves. So why do the talking heads on television only show 30 seconds of his 2:47 rant? Why haven't they allowed YOU the opportunity too hear the underlying arguments of his speech? For example:

"For the first time in the history of this country, we got more people voting... than we do working for a living." Assuming those numbers are true, that is a disturbing statistic. But there could be reasonable explanations to it. The elderly are living longer. The baby boomers are just hitting retirement age. We have 10+% unemployment nationwide. But the fact that a small shift in demographics pushed us over that hurdle seems unreal.

"Anytime we give someone money we reward them, we tell them keep doing what you are doing. We discourage them from...from opening that business." There are people that receive aid that have zero intention of doing better for themselves. They are "lifers" inthe government system. But there are many others who would probably look to improve their situation if they were encouraged or rewarded for rejecting government support. Believe it or not, the assistance programs we have attempt to do this (on a small scale). But, there has to be more that can be done to help motivate them.

"If you receive goods or services from the government, then you owe something back... there are no repercussions. We don't make you take a drug test. We ought to." Will this apply to anyone that receives any aid (i.e. unemployment, Medicare, Medicaid, etc.)? Again, some assistance is not a problem. EVERYONE needs something at some point. But there should be repercussions to those that abuse the system!!!

"(Students who receive) free and reduced lunch have the lowest test scores in the state of South Carolina... schools that have the active participation in parents... they have the highest test scores... if you don't attend the parent teacher meetings, then bam, you lose your benefits. We can't afford to keep giving money away." It is his assumption that parents whose children receive the free/reduced lunches are also the least involved in their child's educational growth. He believes there is a direct correlation between them and that none of the educational programs we have can help these children without the parental support. While yes, they may be less involved because they are working two low paying jobs and that schedule doesn't allow them the opportunity to attend PTA meetings, parent/teacher conferences, etc. But as the son of a single mother, who worked full-time, attended night school, and was in the Air Force Reserves, those excuses don't work for me. Any parent that truly cares about their child will be sure to be involved... like my mother was.

Andre Bauer should NOT have compared people to animals. Any decent human being will have some level of compassion towards those that have little to nothing. The media focused on the 30 second clip and not the text in context causing some of us to miss the big picture: Compassion should not be endless if a person can do better yet simply chooses not to!

CDA2

Jacksonville Teacher Robbed At Gunpoint

2010-01-25T22:38:00.003-05:00

If you were a savage, low-life, felonous dog, which sign would make you a little more cautious or even deter you from stalking your prey?

THIS???

OR THIS???

An elementary teacher was robbed by gunpoint as she unlocked her classroom door in the early morning. Thankfully, the only thing this monster wanted was her purse and not her life or her body. It's unfortunate that if he wanted to do her more harm, she would have been even more defenseless. Oh, that's right! That little sign outside would have stopped him from walking onto school property with a weapon.

CDA2

Would Be Robber Shot Dead In Ft Myers

2010-01-25T21:07:00.002-05:00

Denying one the right to self-defend, denies him/her their most basic inalienable human right: The RIGHT TO LIVE! Remember, when seconds count, the police are "only" minutes away!

I know you didn't want to do it, Darrick Crawford, but you had to. We're hoping you pull through and never have to make that horrible decision ever again.

CDA2

Saudi Girl Gets 90 Lashes

2010-01-22T06:52:00.001-05:00

I am probably one of the biggest non-Muslim proponents of Muslims and Islam. But as with many religions, there are a few things I do NOT understand. In Saudi Arabia, a teenage girl was sentenced to two months in jail and 90 (yes, NINETY) lashes as punishment for bringing a camera phone to school. A few years ago, 16 teenagers received 300-500 lashes for being aggressive with a teacher. I suppose public floggings are better than punishments received for stealing, but it seems rather barbaric to me.

The United States fights for justice, democracy, and equal rights for all... when it's convenient or politically inspired. Why does Saudi Arabia remain one of our major allies despite the fact that the majority of the 9/11 terrorists hailed from Saudi?

President Bush holding hands with a Saudi prince in 2003.

President Obama bowing before a Saudi king in 2009.

That's right... they are our "friends."

CDA2

Female Bobsledder Splits Her Spandex

2010-01-20T21:15:00.003-05:00

No jokes about this poor Olympian. Let’s just put this BEHIND us and END the puns. No more wiseCRACKS. Let’s turn the other CHEEK. After all, we don’t want karma to REAR its ugly head! BUMMER, we’ve hit rock BOTTOM with all this joking. Then again, bobsledders can take the abuse. BUT(T) lesser athletes would not be able to take this punhsiment. Or am I just over ANALyzing all of this?

CDA2

All White Basketball League

2010-01-20T19:48:00.002-05:00

The purpose of HBCU's and other minority targeted programs and organizations was/is to afford minorities the opportunity to be part of something where being black wasn't a liability and where blacks are accepted. The schools, as an example, simply wanted its students to get a quality education at a time when many schools denied blacks entrance into their institutions. The practice of regular institutions of higher learning turning away minority candidates solely because of skin color lasted through the 1970's. Organizations like this were created out of necessity, not to create a racial divide. And contrary to popular belief, none of those organizations denied entry to whites.

Don Lewis (click HERE for the article) is starting a basketball "league for white players to play fundamental basketball, which they like" as opposed to "that streetball which people of color play." I guess someone forgot to pass that "fundamental basketball" memo on to Steve Nash, Jason Williams, J.J. Redick, Mike Dunleavy, etc.

His claim is that whites are now the minority in the United States and they aren't afforded the opportunity to play sports professional. For the record, white/non-hispanics make up for 68% of the U.S. population, according to the Census Bureau. It won't be until 2050 that whites may become the "minority" at 46%. His argument denies logic and common sense. Athletics are the one place where race is rarely a factor. Does he really believe that if "Tom" is a better dribbler, shooter, and more athletic than his minority counterpart "Jabar", Tom will get overlooked? Not even a chance. And unlike the HBCU's, the AABA will exclude an athlete based on the color of his skin AND his ancestry.

This league screams racism and I hope it falls flat on its face.

CDA2

Taxpayers Pay To Cover Up Nazi Tattoo

2009-12-14T06:51:00.009-05:00

John Ditullio, a self-admitted Neo-Nazi is accused of stabbing, and ultimately killing a neighbor's friend because the 17 year old boy was black. Amazingly, his public defender has managed to convince the court that THEY should pay to have John's tattoos covered with makeup "because the trial should be about the facts, not about the tattoos." The man has a barbed wire across his face, "F*** YOU" one side of his neck, and a swastika on the other side. If he didn't mind being judged by his tattoos/lifestyle before, why should he care now? More importantly, why should the court pay $150 per day to do this? They couldn't find someone at the MAC store to do it for free?

The headline will tell you that the court or the state of Florida is paying for this process... clearly forgetting that the only place the state gets revenue is from you and me... the taxpayer.

CDA2

Welcome to the Hall, Whitey Herzog

2009-12-07T14:06:00.000-05:00

After failing to gain entry on previous attempts, Whitey Herzog is FINALLY headed where he should be... the baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, OH. My 1980's memories of the St. Louis Cardinals included one of the best managers in the dugout. With Whitey at the helm, the Redbirds won the 1982 World Series and 3 National League Pennants. If it were not for the missed call (in the video below), they would have won a 2nd World Series title under Herzog and have 10 overall.

CDA2

Black Men, White Women

2009-12-06T12:45:00.005-05:00

There have been several articles discussing how some blacks have been turned off by the Tiger Woods' situation because he cheated on his wife with white women (click for one of the HERE articles). Are we STILL dealing with this issue of inferiority in 2009? This tends to be a very sore subject for blacks (especially black women). For years they were made to believe that having darker skin made them less attractive than their fairer counterparts. That having curly/crinkly hair was unappealing. No one can deny that sort of mental abuse has and continues to happen in our society. But, if a man wants to date exclusively outside of his race, that's his preference, not yours, and it deserves little criticism from you (unless you are married to him, of course). If one chooses to be upset with Tiger it should be because he cheated in the first place. Whether she was white, hispanic, or a female goat is irrelevant.

It is also very unfortunate that some would view the race of a man's spouse as a factor when it comes to supporting him. "The color of one's companion has long been a major measure of "blackness" — which is a big reason why the biracial (then presidential candidate) Barack Obama was able to fend off early questions about his black authenticity. "Had Barack had a white wife, I would have thought twice about voting for him," Johnson Cooper said."

Since I've heard this foolishness from many others around the time of the election, it's not just Mr. Cooper's ignorance on display here. Any person that would have voted against Barack Obama because he married a Sarah Palin or a Hillary Clinton (in other words, a white woman) is the real racist.

Tell me what you think. Are critics like Tom Joyner (and others) okay for having the thoughts they do on the subject? Or are they actually encouraging segregation and increasing our racial divide with their beliefs on this matter?

CDA2

Family Helped Cop Killer Elude Police

2009-12-02T20:30:00.001-05:00

I love my mother. She told me a long time ago that if I EVER did anything wrong, she would either:
A) Turn me in to the police herself OR
B) Kill me before the police caught me

Her point? Don't do something wrong and come to her looking for an escape or sympathy! To that end, what on earth possessed the family and friends of a cop killer to not only help him hide from the police during this ordeal but to call 911 and give them false leads to help him escape? Click HERE for the story or watch the video below.

It's tragic enough that a man could murder four police officers in cold blood but to think that there are others around him that supported his actions is unconscionable. I hope they send his family/friends to prison for a VERY long time.

Kudos to the officer for taking that monster off the street (especially since our legal system continued to set him free).

CDA2

Whose Life Would You Save?

2009-12-02T15:49:00.001-05:00

The story, which can be found by clicking HERE, describes how after his wife's car submerged into water, a man was unable to save his son without risking his life AND the life of his wife, so he made the decision to save her instead (The UK Times' headline is VERY misleading, but I digress).

The story reminded me of a report I read while in college. The report discussed the differences in three cultures: Caucasians, Asians, and blacks (it did not differentiate between Korean, Chinese, Japanese, etc.). The writers conducted a survey which gave the respondents the following scenario:

Imagine that your home home caught fire this evening. Inside your home are your mother (or father), spouse, and one child. Imagine that they are all unable to save themselves and time permitted you to be able to save just one life, whose life would you choose? The researchers found it interesting that the overwhelmingly majority of the answers were split down racial lines. Caucasians chose their spouse, Asians chose their parent, and blacks chose their child (the respondents did not suggest why they chose the individual they did and you can draw your own conclusions from that).

No one would have want to see ANY of their family members suffer. Heck, most people ignore the thought of death so much they won't buy life insurance or set up a will or a trust ("Because if I don't think about it, it won't happen to me.")!

But let me ask you: If you were to ever face a gut wrenching scenario such as this, whose life would you spare?

CDA2

Lose Weight Or You Can't Graduate!

2009-11-27T13:30:00.002-05:00

I'd like to applaud the administration at Lincoln University (PA). They are making a controversial stand against high rates of obesity and diabetes. These are issues which are especially prevalent in the African-American community.

Four years ago, they created an optional fitness class for all students but REQUIRED for obese students to graduate (obesity is defined by those with a BMI above 30). The course involves walking, aerobics, weight training and other physical activities, as well as information on nutrition, stress, and sleep. To pass the class, you don't have to actually lose weight, but simply have regular attendance and do the activities.

Overweight seniors are just now deciding to speak out against this unorthodox requirement (remember, this was added to their curriculum four years ago). One student wrote in the student newspaper that she "didn't come to Lincoln to be told that my weight is not in an acceptable range. I came here to get an education."

If they want to make sure the ACLU doesn't get involved, they may want to make it a requirement for ALL students... and they should make it a first year mandate. There's a term called the "Freshman 15" for a reason... maybe this course would help to deter that. I'd challenge students that disagree to acknowledge the realize that the school is still meeting its educational standards. They are being educated about the dangers of an unhealthy lifestyle and how to avoid it.

If incoming freshman have a problem with it, they are welcome to attend the 4,000 or so other colleges and universities in the United States.

For the news article, click HERE.

CDA2

Should Churches Be Taxed?

2009-11-22T12:44:00.008-05:00

We just wrapped up morning service today. My church service is similar to many others. There are songs (sometimes more than others). A few prayers. A WONDERFUL message. And there's the tithes/offerings portion (which I support). I've thought about this in the past, and this thought crossed my mind again today: Should churches be exempt from paying taxes?

The thought first crossed my mind in 2005, when I started attending a medium size church (above 1,000 members, less than 3,000) for the first time ever. I received a letter from them outlying the 'trackable money' that I gave to them via tithes/offering. I later discovered, I could use that information at tax time as a deduction. According to the National Council of Churches in New York, they estimate that church collections (in New York, alone) amounted to $32 billion in 2005. Considering this is an estimate based on the churches that are apart of this council AND it probably doesn't include cash donations, the numbers could be significantly more. If any earnings above $500,000 (as an example) were taxed at our lowest tax bracket (10%), the revenues generated would be beneficial to our local and federal government.

Don't confuse the argument here. This is NOT an attack on churches. I don't think that all of them have leaders who are money hungry, ATM in the lobby having monsters whose sole purpose is to weasel its followers out of their hard earned dollars. I do believe, however, that SOME churches make considerable profits. After all, according to the logic for some, if profits are bad for health insurance companies, they must REALLY be bad for Creflo Dollar who earned at least $69 million dollars in tax free revenue in 2006 from his church contributions alone (Yes, I cited Wiki, but it's the best thing available since he refuses to disclose his financial position publicly). I believe there should be rare exceptions to those that qualify for this tax exemption. As it stands now, any organization that files under the 501(c)(3) code is exempt (think PETA, which spends millions yearly to for actors/actresses/athletes to advertise for them). I'm sure the IRS could construct guidelines on which churches should be taxed and which ones are exempt. (less than 3,000 members, for example would be tax-exempt). I don't have the answer on how to get it done, I just feel that it could and should be done. Either that or they can continue to raise the taxes for the rest of us to pay for their programs.

Any politicians ready to risk their career with this proposal?

CDA2

It's the PEOPLE, Stupid!

2009-11-10T21:41:00.003-05:00

I love to make fun of gun control people. I think it's because I used to be one. That was until one day, I realized that blaming guns for anyone's death or murder is like blaming an automobile instead of the driver in a car crash at 90 mph. Don't blame GUNS for the insane things PEOPLE do.

The latest example of the straw-man argument for gun control is Mayor John Daley. (Press HERE for the 46 second video).

Mayor Daley, the victims at Fort Hood deserved more than your attempts to utilize their fate to play political games. This is anything but an everyday gun crime. Don't try to minimize the first terrorist attack on American soil since 9/11 by bringing your political views on gun control into this.

CDA2

Congressman Breaks 4 Promises in First Hour

2009-11-08T14:59:00.000-05:00

All I can say is, "Wow!" This has to be considered a new record (or a new low) even for a politician. Newly elected Congressman Bill Owens waited less than an hour to break four, count 'em, four of his campaign promises. It's so nice to know someone can spend months campaigning, looking into the camera, and telling citizens their stances and positions... only for us to discover they are more movable than dirt when the wind blows. Should this even surprise me anymore?

The story can be found by click HERE.

CDA2

It's Called Punishment For A Reason

2009-10-20T23:22:00.000-04:00

"At 678, California has the nation's largest death row population, yet the state has not executed anyone in four years." That sentence alone helps to explain why California faces the massive deficit that it has. Why is the state refusing to punish people that have been found guilty of heinous crimes by a jury and sentenced by a judge? Some inmates have even been on death row since the 1970's! Hey, Governor Awnold! You would have less crowded prisons if you would just rid the system of the 678 pieces of waste you have there now.

Stop with the stalling. Fix the appeals process. Put a timetable on all of it. If a man/woman is unable to prove his/her innocence within 10 years of conviction/sentencing, why should we continue to pay millions for his/her food, care, and well-being?

CDA2

Sleeping Outside For The Homeless

2009-10-20T22:27:00.002-04:00

I love discussing politics, crime, punishment, and self-defense. However, my mom often reminds me that there are good stories to be shared with my audience and that I shouldn't always focus on the negative people in our society.

So mom, I think this would make you proud. Enjoy!

CDA2

Attention NFL - Do NOT Listen to the Good Ole "Rev"

2009-10-12T23:45:00.008-04:00

When the Rev. Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson give their two cents to an issue, my first instinct is to join the opposition. Rush Limbaugh is making a bid to become a minority owner in my hometown team, the St. Louis Rams. Click here for the story.

Jackson said in a telephone interview that Limbaugh had made his wealth "appealing to the fears of whites" with an unending line of insults against blacks and other minorities. "The National Football League has set high standards for racial justice and inclusion," Jackson said. "He should not have the privilege of owning an NFL franchise -- and it is a privilege."

He's right. It's a major privilege to own (or become a part-owner of) a sports franchise. But I want you to understand the hypocrisy of people like Al and Jesse from my point of view. In the NBA, another predominately black league, Jay-Z, and Nelly are both co-owners of NBA franchises. We're talking about: Jay-Z, the man who calls himself "Hova" (as in "Jehovah" according to some), who has made a living on raps glorifying the dope/pimp games, and speaks to God and the devil in his song, "Lucifer". We're talking about Nelly, a product of my hometown, whose songs are notorious for degrading women in the black community (You must be 18 to view that because it's so trifling).

Where was the outcry and disbelief when they wanted to own NBA teams, Al? Why didn't you stick up for the welfare of the league then, Jesse? WHERE ARE THE TWO OF YOU WHEN IT MATTERS MOST??? Like it or not, folks, Jay-Z and Nelly have a FAR greater hand in the destruction of our communities than do Rush Limbaugh. Yeah, he has the 'golden microphone' and voices his opinions to which SOME blacks disagree. But he doesn't call us "niggas." He doesn't teach our little ones that murdering another black male is okay if he disrespects you. He doesn't label our future mothers as "b****es*" and encourage them to work the poles because that's where they'll make the best "paper."

Just do us all a favor. Stop crying "wolf" so much. That way, when we really need your platform, we won't tune you out.

CDA2

Pride or Prejudiced?

2009-10-12T21:45:00.003-04:00

The article's title was simple enough. It reads, "2009 Black Expo Draws Big Crowd." In two paragraphs (and five sentences total), the writer summarized the purpose of the three day event. Unfortunately, it's not the article that gave me reason to pause, but rather comments by readers below the story.

The following comments (in bullet form) were taken directly from the website without any changes or corrections and they are all attached to different user names. Brace yourselves:

"So...when is Winn Dixie going to sponsor the White Expo?
Whites are not allowed to be "PROUD" because that would be racist. Imagine the headlines if there was a white expo, bet you would call it a racist event but when its the black expo its just being "PROUD".
You said this in one of your other comments below "One day we will all come together as American's.."
So if you believe that then why call this the "Black" expo, why not the health expo or community expo? If you want us all to be together then why do the blacks keep drawing the racial lines?
Mmmf! If I remember correctly, it was "black" capturing "black" and sold them to the English! Maybe it's about time the "black" population looked at "the truth", instead of continuing to feel sorry for itself and continuing to "want something for nothing"! "Reperation"? Maybe you should talk to some Irish, Chinese and Italian's about the way they were treated when they first got to this country. It's about time you "man up" and move the fk on! This is my "opinion"!
Here were some of the main attractions:

         1) "The history of crack and how the CIA used it to destroy the Black Man."
         2) "The history of malt liquor and how the CIA used it to destroy the Black Man."
         3) "The history of grape juice and how the CIA laced it with crack to make it addictive in order to destroy the Black Man."
         4) "Black on Black violence and how the CIA is using it to destroy the Black Man."
         5) "High School. How the CIA convinces people it is necessary and how you can fight back by not finishing."

I rarely comment on racial things since I am a white southerner so obviously I am the cause of all the problems in the world. But this expo is racism plain and simple. I was doing family geneology with my kids and I don't know much of my tradition other than Scottish (I think) the point is that I am American. Not Scottish American. I am American. As soon as "African Americans" can cut the BS and just think of themselves as Americans the world will be a better place. "Don't' go around thinking the world owes you a living. The world owes you nothing. It was here first." -Mark Twain (I'm sorry he was a white man so he must be evil).
If we had a white expo we would be racist, if we had a white Miss America pagent we would be racist, if we had a wet ( WHITE ENTERTAINMENT TV ) we would be racist, all white college = racist, you can say whitey, cracker, honkie, caveman, try and say the n word you're a racist, you celebrate black history month, if we celebrated white history month we would be racist, the list goes on and on. To get back on to the Miss America contest, Blacks are aloud , in the Miss Black america contest, you got it, whites, are not. NOW HERE IS THE QUESTION...WHO IS THE RACIST NOW. I agree with ya bettyboop2 NO COLOR INVOLVED""

Will someone explain to me how a story so innocent could turn into such a heated debate? While I didn't agree completely with his comments, Jimmy Carter was not completely wrong in his recent statement regarding race in the United States. As you can see, some people get NASTY when it comes to this hot button issue. The purpose for the "Black" Expo was not, nor will it ever be to segregate but to showcase black business owners and businesses. The "Black" Expo gives black business owners who normally do not have the means/ability to showcase their goods and services be allowed the opportunity to do so... typically at a MUCH lower cost than a non-black expo. Please forgive these business owners for attempting to advertise within their budgets!

For the record, there is a big difference between HATE and PRIDE. From St. Patrick's Day, to Jewish Bar Mitzvahs, to Greek festivals, every sub-culture in the United States has ways of expressing the pride they have in their background. Having pride in ones heritage should NOT be painted with the same brush as those who assimilate with groups whose sole purpose is to express their HATRED towards other groups different from them.

In a twist of the words uttered by Rodney King... Will we EVER be able to get along?

CDA2

Genocide in Chicago

2009-09-28T19:29:00.004-04:00

If you care for your sons (or yourself), this is no place for you or your family to live. Crime is everywhere, but the savages are running wild there and it MAKES NO SENSE! Young, black males are ~~dying~~ being slaughtered like cattle at a disturbingly high rate. That's called genocide in most countries. It's "just another day in the hood" in our urban areas.

The 2008-2009 school year saw approximately 40 elementary, teenager, and high school students die violently ( that equates to about one per week during the school year). We're not talking about a one year anomaly. There have been 20 plus such murders every year since 2000. And 2009 is off to another competitive start. The latest incident involving 16 year old Derrion Albert isn't necessarily the worst of the crimes committed (they are all awful), but "thanks" to an eyewitness's video, I am able to express to you my frustration with the monsters who have made it their mission to control that city. I can't even put into words what I just witnessed. I warn you, it is very graphic and extremely disturbing (you can view the article without actually watching the video).

ARTICLE/VIDEO

Are there solutions? What should be done. My answers are simple. Stand up. Write your politicians. Demand more from the city leaders. Volunteer at the elementary/middle schools and show them what it takes to become successful adults. Take back your neighborhoods and streets. Pass my article along to everyone you know BECAUSE THIS IS SERIOUS!!!

OR...

Just ignore all of this. Do nothing. Continue to believe it's not your problem. Go back to watching "Fake Housewives of Atlanta" or "Who wants to date a nobody." Turn a blind eye. I'm sure this will go away.

Either way, if you live in this God forsaken city and you care for your son's future, MOVE AWAY SOON! That place is infected with demons and it is no place for decent people.

As always, please keep the comments clean. Thank you.

CDA2

Teacher, do you believe in me?

2009-09-19T14:20:00.003-04:00

Remember the name, Dalton Sherman. At 11 years old, he was the KEYNOTE SPEAKER for the teachers in the Dallas school district as a part of their back to school meetings. He's doing what is considered the biggest fear for many adults... at age 11... in front of 17K+ people!!!

In short, he reminds teachers (and really every parent, adult, etc.), that children are able to succeed in life... with their help. We know that some of the kids can be frustrating to deal with. We understand that you put in a LOT of hours, deal with a load of crap, and don't always get the credit you deserve. But don't give up. Don't stop believing in your kids. After all, teachers spend more time with them during the week than their own parents get to!

The story behind Dalton involves a teacher not giving up on him (at the old age of nine years old). Dalton LOVED to talk. He was very disruptive and talkative in class. Instead of giving up on him... his teacher suggested he get involved in his community by giving little talks and speeches. She even made it a part of his homework. This is just one example of what NOT giving up can do for your kids!

Feel free to click the share button above to share with teachers (or other parents). Enjoy!

CDA2

Kanye needs to disappear

2009-09-13T22:26:00.001-04:00

This won't go down as one of my best notes and I don't care. I'm sharing my frustration and anger with you over the artist formally known as Kanye West. For the purposes of my story (and possibly my life), he will be referred as IGNORANT and or ARROGANT JERK (they are interchangeable).

If you are like me, you were watching football (a grossly disgusting Bears/Packers game) when your e-mail, texts, and MySpace/Facebook literally started blowing up. Apparently during an awards show, Taylor Swift won an award for best video. The voters obviously forgot to ask for approval from Arrogant Jerk before presenting her award. At that point, Arrogant Jerk jumped up on the stage, took the mic from the award winner and declared that Beyonce' had the best video. Ignorant Jerk has spoken so now we know who should have won (that little trophy and the subsequent performance meant nothing).

I'm sick of this dude. He really feels he's God's gift to music, lyrics... actually all things created and all things that will be created. We just had a great debate on this and I am officially continuing it here.

THERE IS A TIME AND PLACE TO VOICE YOUR OPINION!!!

Before you respond, please consider this:

1) Freedom of opinion is great, but every situation requires tact and decorum.

2) If you got upset with Joe Wilson from South Carolina for yelling "You lie" (his opinion) to the president during his speech... what's the difference? Both parties (Arrogant Jerk and Wilson) were out of line and out of order. The point is, protocol is protocol and he violated that. It's the same thing.

3) If Beyonce' won this award and Bruce Springstein got on stage and did what Arrogant Jerk did, would it change your opinion?

Comment below (and please keep it clean)!

CDA2

The Messiah's Propaganda Speech to School Children

2009-09-08T21:26:00.003-04:00

In case you haven't heard, President Obama gave a controversial speech today.

Don't bother reading it... the edited version from his socialized propaganda speech are:

Responsibility - "But at the end of the day, we can have the most dedicated teachers, the most supportive parents, and the best schools in the world and none of it will matter unless all of you fulfill your responsibilities. Unless you show up to those schools; pay attention to those teachers; listen to your parents, grandparents and other adults; and put in the hard work it takes to succeed."

Importance of education - "And no matter what you want to do with your life — I guarantee that you'll need an education to do it. You want to be a doctor, or a teacher, or a police officer? You want to be a nurse or an architect, a lawyer or a member of our military? You're going to need a good education for every single one of those careers. You can't drop out of school and just drop into a good job. You've got to work for it and train for it and learn for it."

Socio/Economic backgrounds are no excuse - "I get it. I know what that's like. My father left my family when I was two years old, and I was raised by a single mother who struggled at times to pay the bills and wasn't always able to give us things the other kids had. There were times when I missed having a father in my life. There were times when I was lonely and felt like I didn't fit in."

Challenges can be overcome - "I'm thinking about Andoni Schultz, from Los Altos, California, who's fought brain cancer since he was three. He's endured all sorts of treatments and surgeries, one of which affected his memory, so it took him much longer — hundreds of extra hours — to do his schoolwork. But he never fell behind, and he's headed to college this fall."

THERE'S NO SUBSTITUTION FOR HARD WORK - "I know that sometimes, you get the sense from TV that you can be rich and successful without any hard work — that your ticket to success is through rapping or basketball or being a reality TV star, when chances are, you're not going to be any of those things. But the truth is, being successful is hard. You won't love every subject you study. You won't click with every teacher. Not every homework assignment will seem completely relevant to your life right this minute. And you won't necessarily succeed at everything the first time you try."

How dare he reiterate the same points I tell my daughter? He's trying to brainwash our kids into believing that an education is really important! Why on earth would Laura Bush, Nancy Reagan, and Newt Gingrich say this speech is important? We really need to kick them all out of the party NOW! I am so glad thousands of parents and schools decided not to show this circus of a speech in the classrooms. If you can't tell, the comments above are sarcasm.

Here are the lessons that were really taught by parents/bloggers/media this past week:

When someone with authority speaks, it's okay NOT to listen (in other words, disrespect is appropriate when you completely disagree)
It's okay to use children as pawns in politics (like a fighting couple going through divorce)
"Opposing viewpoints" (which in this case, it turned out not to be so different) are awful and opening up your ears/mind to them are never a good thing (don't ever change your point of view).

It's these little STUPID disagreements that caused the GOP to lose this last election and if the GOP continues to make mountains out of molehill issues, they will not regain power in 2012. KEEP THE FOCUS ON REAL ISSUES (health care, immigration, foreign policy, gun rights and abortion) and not on piddly, trivial ones.

He's the president. I really wish people would respect the seat. For the record, I'm not just criticizing the Republican party. Some of this is their backlash and response to those who didn't respect the office of the presidency during Republican years. When people disagree, complain, and are boisterous during townhall meetings, remember this: They are exercising the same free speech exhibited just ONE YEAR AGO... and as my grandmother used to say, "What's good for the goose, is good for the gander."

Some of you didn't respect the seat when it was held by GW Bush. You wished for his death. You wish the Iraqi journalist would have hit him with the shoe. You called him everything from a drunk to an idiot. So, as Jeremiah Wright would say, "Maybe your chickens have come home to roost."

CDA2

Understanding Plaxico

2009-08-30T23:20:00.004-04:00

I usually preempt any controversial arguments with a clarifying statement. This note will not be an exception:

I am not a fan of Plaxico Burress. I do not like the New York Giants. I feel that SOUND laws should be respected and obeyed and that status, money, and power should never allow a person to be considered above the law. I feel that those of you who have been quick to call him a "thug", "typical athlete", or my favorite, "if you feel you need a gun, you shouldn't go there" are a little misguided. (Side note: I believe that Plaxico Burress should not have been charged, prosecuted, and convicted of a felony but that is not my argument today. If you want to argue gun laws and/or gun control, please wait, that opportunity will come soon).

Some argue that if he didn't feel safe, he shouldn't go out in the first place. This makes sense because crimes only happen to those that hang out in bad areas or have a bad crowd around them (sarcasm). Tell that to:

September 2007: Dunta Robinson's home was invaded as he and his family sat on the couch watching football.
November 2007: Sean Taylor was murdered by would be robbers in his home.
November 2008 (just two weeks before Plaxico's incident): Steve Smith (former teammate of Plaxico Burress) was robbed at gunpoint as he was returned home one evening.
The issue isn't limited to the NFL as NBA stars Antione Walker and Eddie Curry both had their homes invaded within the past two years.

Some people say, if you don't start trouble, you'll be okay. I'm sure these NFLers agree:

Mid-November 2008, ESPN the Magazine published an article titled "Living Scared." It was an article that focused on NFL athletes and their fears one year after the death of Sean Taylor. The article put the focus on why SELF-protection and security is such a concern for these high profile athletes. It highlighted the home invasion case of Dunta Robinson, why Clinton Portis no longer feels safe at home, and how some athletes fear for their family members' safety as a result of their success.

Unlike the CEO of Bank of America or the CFO of Intel, he is visible. Everyone knows who most of the high-profile athletes are. It is for these reasons, Plaxico felt the need exercise his 2nd Amendment right and carry a firearm for his protection because he knows the danger he faces everyday simply by being Plaxico Burress. It's for this reason (and the numerous ones listed above) that he and many athletes carry firearms.

Plaxico Burress is not stupid but yes, his actions were questionable:

He should have better understood his firearm. Like many handguns his has only one safety feature... the trigger. Don't pull it, it won't shoot.
He should have carried it in a proper holster and not in his waistband like a Crip.
He should have respected the unconstitutional laws of New York City and not had a firearm in his possession since that city feels legal citizens carrying one is a crime.

Please be careful as you throw around accusations about Plaxico's intelligence, sanity, or misunderstand the need for one to want to protect him/herself. Afterall, NOT asking for trouble will never guarantee it will not happen to you and pardon him for not wanting to take the Illinois State Police advice on what to do before defending yourself. <<---That is a MUST SEE link for women!!!

CDA2

Should this teen be charged?

2009-08-25T15:01:00.001-04:00

We do STUPID things as teenagers. Most of us, anyway. A lot of times it's because as teenagers, we didn't fully respect the fact that we are not invincible, that we (and our friends) don't always know best, and that are consequences to our actions. One example of this played out with deadly consequence in Jacksonville this summer.

Here are the facts to this situation:

In June, nine teens (ranging in age from 15-17) decided to skip their final day of class and head to the beach
One of the teens, 16, borrowed the car from her parents but became sick so she asked her 15 year old boyfriend to drive them instead
In Florida, even with a learner's permit, there must be a 21 year old in the passenger seat of the vehicle
At the time of the accident, he was driving 72 in a 65 mph zone
Possibly due to the weight in the vehicle (carrying NINE passengers in a FIVE passenger SUV) one of the tires blew out and the SUV rolled over several times
The 15 year old driver was the only one wearing a seatbelt
Four of the children died
Four were sent to the hospital
The 15 year old wasn't physically harmed (thanks to his seatbelt, I imagine). He was able to pull himself from the vehicle and lay beside his friends as he heard two of them take their last breaths and die on the scene and the others cry in pain and agony.
He faces four counts of driving without a license, causing death (felonies); four counts of driving without a license (felonies), causing serious injury; and one count of careless driving (misdemeanor).
If he were an adult, the charges may have simply been "vehicular homicide" but considering the circumstances, the DA feels they are going light (although the charges could carry up to 40 years if he's tried as an adult which has yet to be determined).
For the record, 1/2 of the parents want him charged, 1/2 feel he's been punished "enough."

Sometimes our laws and justice system are there not just to punish someone who committed a crime... but to deter others from taking those same actions (thanks, Mom).

I've listed the facts. Now it's time for your opinions. Do you feel he should be charged with the eight felonies and one misdemeanor? Should the other teenagers be held responsible for their actions and/or be charged with something as well - i.e. reckless endangerment (afterall, he didn't make them get in, not wear seatbelts, or overcrowd the SUV)? If you were one of those teens, would you want your friend to be punished legally? But what if you were the parent??? How would you fele if you received a phone call not long after seeing your teen off to school stating that your child was killed/injured in a car accident as a result of someone else's negligence. Would you want him punished for the crimes he committed?

Sound off!

CDA2

For the uncommited

2009-08-19T22:05:00.002-04:00

One of my friend's status read, "I could sing about love loss..but what if there's no love to lose?" It seems she's gotten to the point that she's numb to relationships or worse... to the thought of love. I found this and thought I'd share with all of you.

" For your life to change you must change" - Jim Rohn

What does a commitment phobic have to do to change?

1. He/she has to admit he/she has a problem.
2. He/she has to take responsibility for his/her behaviors toward men/women – that he leads them on and he behaves in an uncaring and cruel way.

3. He/she has to want to change.
4. He/she has to be prepared to seek help.
5. He/she has to look deep within to work out when and how his claustrophobic/commitment phobic symptoms started.
6. He/she will require coaching or cognitive behavioural therapy to change his negative, irrational thought patterns about love, commitment and relationships. He/she will also need to explore some of the faster healing therapies to heal, grow and change.
7. He/she needs some time out from relationships to reflect on his thinking patterns and behaviors.
8. He/she must develop his emotional and spiritual intelligence and become more aware. Personal and spiritual development courses raise awareness and consciousness and prevent us from sabotaging relationships. (Spiritual development is not about religion).
9. If he/she doesn’t want to change his behaviours he/she has to be honest and upfront to women/men when he/she first meets them. He/she must tell them he/she does not want a committed relationship, that he/she is only interested in a casual liaison with space and freedom and not to expect any more. Then it is up to the woman/man to decide whether she/he wishes to spend time with him on those terms.

“ Love and fear cannot exist in the same space” - Author unknown

"Death is not the greatest loss in life. The greatest loss is what dies inside us while we live" - Norman Cousins

"Your task is not to seek for love, but merely to seek and find all the barriers within yourslef that you have built against it "- Rumi

WE MUST ALL REMEMBER THAT IN THE END - LOVE IS ALL THERE IS!

It is love that feeds how heart and our soul and makes us feel whole.
==========================================
Points number one and seven are the two I feel most people don't adhere to. I'll give her credit: she admitted she's at fault and needs help. As far as the other points? To be continued...

CDA2

Love... A Choice or a Feeling?

2009-08-17T23:29:00.003-04:00

Several friends and I were having the FB discussion a few months ago about this topic. The conversation was in depth and the subject has yet to leave my mind.

I believe that love and being in love is a choice... not a feeling.

One author wrote, "I have bound myself for life; I have made my choice. From now on my aim will not be to choose a woman who will please me, but to please the woman I have chosen."

The bad thing about being human is that we believe in many things that we cannot feel, touch, taste, or smell... yet we have faith they exist. Love is one of those things. Now, I'm not saying love doesn't exist, I CHOOSE to believe that love is more of a state of mind, than a matter of the heart.

I can understand why young people talk about love as a feeling. When we're young, our emotions are running high so we tend to go with our gut. And, being young, we can be quite inflexible: things are either black or white. The smallest thing can turn us off: "He slurps his soup?" "She grinds her teeth?" I am outta here!!!

I hate to tell you this (and admit it myself) but your perception and your lack of experiences allow you to be lulled into believing love is this uncontrollable feeling you get in the pit of your stomach (NOTE: by experiences, I mean years on this earth, because in this case, that's what matters most)

But as we get older, we become more tolerant. Ask any older couple and you'll find that there are things they don't like about each other but not enough to make them fall out of love with their partner. They have chosen to stay with that person for the long haul. As we grow, we learn that "infatuation is the feeling, love is the choice." This doesn't mean infatuation is a bad thing at all. The problem is, it can waiver and small circumstances can alter it. Love, true love, won't be altered because he gained a few pounds, her mother is a jerk, or her snoring wakes you up a few times at night.

Could you imagine a place where everyone listened to their feelings? I can't either. We'd have more wars, diseases, and murders. Our world would be even more chaotic as people chose to do the wrong things based on their feelings/emotions. When it comes to infatuation (not true love), the wrong paths are:
1) staying TOO long when you are being abused (never a reason to stay... ever... that means not for one extra moment, ladies... and men)
2) marriage or a baby when you weren't "ready"
3) choosing not to be with someone because you didn't get that 'feeling'... although she may have been the one that would have helped you to grow as a man.

After three years of marriage, a woman was beginning to lose the spark she once had with her husband. They'd fallen into a rut. He was no longer the fun, spontaneous man she once knew. They'd discussed the issue before but although he made some improvements, it just hadn't changed much. She'd had enough. Being the fighter that he was, he told her to consider the following:

"Honey, this is where the decision part kicks in. Your initial feelings of 'love' have worn off. Books and movies have tricked all of us into believing this won't happen, but inevitably they do! It's because they don't explain that true love is not the feeling you once felt... it's a choice. I'm simply asking you give our love a chance... and work with me to make love work. Now, will you decide to stay for the long run or cut your losses and leave?

21 years and one son later, they are still together... and still in love.

CDA2

Top 10 Uncomfortable Facebook/MySpace moments

2009-08-14T01:20:00.000-04:00

Social networking sites are wonderful. It gives you a chance to reconnect with old friends and keep up to date with current events involving loved ones.

It also gives you the opportunity to screw up your life (like hitting "reply all" to the e-mail that included your off-color remarks about your boss)! So I came up with my Top 10 potentially uncomfortable moments in the worlds of Facebook/MySpace. Scroll down slowly so you don't get ahead too quickly. Enjoy!

10. You just found out your mom deleted you as a friend.

9. While looking over your best friend’s "friends" list, you notice that most of them are half-naked guys… the problem is, your best friend is a dude.

8. You requested your boyfriend as a friend two weeks ago... and he still hasn’t accepted you.

7. Your girlfriend just changed her status from "in a relationship" to "single"… now you have to rush home to see if the locks are changed since you two live together.

6. Your girlfriend just added new pictures of her recent trip to Miami… you didn’t know anything about a trip to Miami… and who took the picture?

5. Your mom has a status update that says what her favorite sex position is...

4. ...your 13 year old daughter took the same quiz and the answer was every position is her favorite...

3. ...your pastor’s result was missionary!

2. Somebody fought you on Sorority Life today... it’s your boyfriend.

1. Your girlfriend has 973 "friends"... and 815 are guys... she went to an all-girl high school and college... not saying something's up... but if it looks like a duck, walks like a duck, and quacks like a duck...

Thank you, thank you, thank you. Be sure to tip your server.

CDA2