BR 12-18-12

I am not educated enough on guns to actually agree or disagree with this regulation. I still can comment that all gun regulations do is keep guns out of people's hands who actually register them. People make their own guns, and its not like we can search everybody's house for assault rifles? China the same day of the shooting in connecticut had 22 children at an elementary school stabbed to death by a psycho and he didnt use an assault rifle. He used a knife; we can't put a ban on anything that people use for weapons.We'll live in an insane aylum with white padded walls and no sharp objects. So, after all of my thoughts on this ban, I want others to understand that if we regulate guns then we need to look into regulation of all things sharp, that shoot and can create a problem. I do agree with Mr. Moats 5-point plan though, I'd sign for that.

BR 12-17-12

1.) http://www.latimes.com/news/nation/nationnow/la-na-nn-sandy-hook-school-shooting-20121215,0,5203637.story

2.) http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/12/15/connecticut-shooting-victims_n_2308463.html

3.) http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887323723104578185280304627400.html

     On December 14th, 2012 a gunman forced his way into Sandy Hook Elementary School of Newton, CT and shot and killed 27 people and then himself. Twenty of those people were children who attended the elementary school, little innocent children. Over 100 shells were recovered at the scene and the coroner stated that each kid was shot no less than 7 times. Before leaving his house, he shot both his mother and father and left them dead. They have now stated that he was mentally unstable and had been diagnosed with a mental instability. This has been a time of heartache for all of America and our condolences go out to the families in CT. Our hearts hang heavy. God bless those effected by this tragic event.

School Shooting Synopsis

I think both shooters should be taken out back and shot in the back of the head. I also think this is too good of  punishment for them, honestly. If you can shoot a !CHILD! then you're a sick, twisted individual who shouldn't have the gift of life. Especially as a parent, if you can shoot a child! I don't understand people. There were 18 out of 27 kids who were shot that were between the ages of 5-10 in Connecticut. They need to learn capital punishment.

12-14-12

I don't think it should be legal to change your last name without adoption, death, marriage or divorce. The point in last names is to be able to track bloodline. Once people start paying for new last names, then we'll never be able to trace our ancestors back. This country is coming to a sea of idiots.

If I could change my last name, I wouldn't. I love "Dellagatta" and I'll be sad when or if I get married and have to part with it. This is my opinion. 

BR 12-13-12

I completely understand why you can be overweight and in the army. It can be hindering in the service, because it can cause a break in the army if they are sent off and you are unable to complete your duty. I think its your own duty to keep yourself in shape.

12-12-12

Something like that explosion should make people very weary. One night ask questions such as, how could this have been prevented? How will the company pay for the belongings lost in the explosion? And how "convenient" is it that NOBODY was home during this explosion and one guy went "rabbit hunting"?

BR 12-11-12

I think Obama needs to get his butt in gear along with the rest of congress because if we dont have a decided plan, our budget is just going to get worse. Our fiscal cliff needs to be decided. I am not really sure what a fiscal cliff is, but it sounds dangerous, yikes.

12-10-12

The boys parents need to pay attention to them, teach them some respect and show them what parenting feels like! It is ridiculous that these boys didnt have enough fear in their parents because I guarantee if I stole my parents' gun Id have some intense repercussions!

12-7-12

I cannot believe the ignorance of people! I watched this on the news a few days ago and I couldn't believe how rude the NY Post could be, because they printed it! The man could have easily helped the dying old man and all he did was snap pictures. Our world is ridiculous! People need morals, my goodness!

12-6-12

I believe this is the most off topic, pointless article I've ever read. I believe Bill Clinton should win and the president should be forced to read his speech. He needs some help, and Clinton was brilliant! Michelle Obama talks about very important issues in our new America, but I think we need to remember how to run a country, not necessarily feed it.

12-5-12

I think women need to stop complaining about "being equal". There are reasons they cannot have women in the infantry and the only reason a woman might even want to be in the infantry is ridiculous, because that's setting yourself up to get raped. I would write more if I had more time! This really makes me mad!

BR 12-4-12

I don't think they should be aloud to not defend themselves or take the floor on the debate, because you always should be prepared. Its ridiculous to be able to deny an argument. That's what politics are about. I don't really understand this article, but I can already tell you it's just something to put in for a story.

BR 12-3-12

We spend enough time in school!!! I think the more you push school, the more they're going to hate school. I believe their dropout rate will increase and the school will only cater to kids who are going to college. I think they need to set up school to be beneficial for people who are on the career path rather than college path.

BR 11-30-12

I wish it would be open to the public because I would really like to know how that ended up. The president would be able to offer a more humble view and Romney could express a higher, more educated view representing the working class and people who were more privileged.

BR 11-29-12

I think he would like to meet with mitt romney because he would like to get ideas on how to reach across the republican border and balanacing budgets. We all understand that we are seeing the decrease of economy, but maybe if they work together they can find a balance and the country will be amazing again. :D!!

BR 11-28-12

The article was talking about how high the sales of the powerball and lottery are and the high price of the winning. 500 million dollars!! In the article it told about what some families would do with the money if they had won and many of them said noble things and some had absolutely no idea.

If I had a half a billion dollars I would definitely give the money for the bond and levy, because I was severely disappointed when it didn't pass and I would keep money so I could pay off my college so I can continue to make money to support my family and give them the opportunity to travel. I honestly would do everything I could to make sure the money would be continually produced by my investments with my money. (No not the stock market). I know my community would be well taken care of and I would open a youth center to help support children and give them a safe environment they can have fun in. (:

BR 11-27-12

I think the economy being low definitely effects charity, but regardless, everyone has a dollar to give even if you are "dirt poor". And if you dont have money you have time to give and serve. Your person is as imporant as your wallet.

BR 11-26-12

I think its awful that someone would leave a baby abandoned in a box, but I think its a good way to keep females from either killing them or abusing them because they didn't want them. On the other hand, i feel like it encourages women to leave a baby because before the only option was keep, give up for adoption or kill it. Now that you can give your baby away with no reprocussions it seems that the choice is a lot easier to just give it away with no slate.

BR 11-15-12

I'm so worried about the future of our country, because our money level has become so low. We're so far in debt that if we do this now, we'll have no turning back. Our future is at stake and the recession is quickly coming. I think we need to tear up the plans and create new, cooperative taxes and funding.

BR 11-14-12

I know they say the country is not divided but I think it's more divided now than its ever been with race. When over 92% percent of blacks vote for Obama, then there's something wrong.

I think she should only be arrested at the discretion of her husband. It's not like she killed him or really injured him. He's fine. People get hit by cars everyday! Why freak out? Shes pregnant and hormonal!

BR 11-13-12

I think it's important to be prepared in a sense like we should always know how to make our own food and grow our own crops and be inventive, but storing 600 lbs of anything is crazy! These people really want to live if everyone else dies? really? I don't want to be alive if nobody else is. These people are absolutely bonkers!

BR 10-24-12

I think its wrong to raise money for something he doesn't need any money for, however, I understand he wants to raise awareness about the closeness of this race. It's a very tight win if he does. I'm rooting for Obama in this race and I hope he does well.

BR 10-23-12

I think it's extremely important to keep security in the U.S. with I.D. cards, but I hope they don't expect us to pay for this update in their systems and other peoples ID cards. We need a safer more effective way to handle our ID cards and keep from false production of them. Everyone over 18 should have an ID card and be required to carry it.

BR 10-22-12

I think the law they are trying to pass is ridiculous. People will make their own decisions and I think if a hotel wants to encourage players to spend more with "free" rooms and other incentives then it is their choice. The people have the choice to say no and it brings business and recreation into the city. If  a busload of old people want to spend their money gambling, so-be-it! Stop butting into everybody's business; America is so nosy.

BR 10-19-12

He spoke about libya and a bunch of other issues in the country and said it was his job to fix it? I don't understand the point in this short video, but I wish I could've watched him the whole time.

BR 10-18-12

We've learned several things about each candidate in the past few months. In each debate we caught both candidates contradicting themselves, mostly Romney. The debate the other day was extremely intense, but Obama came out on top. He conquered by telling america exactly what Romney's plans were for our country and caught Romney in a trap. They discussed energy very much and also spoke about other issues.

BR 10-16-12

1. I think electoral college is an unfair way to judge the election, because that is like saying one state is more important than the other. We're supposed to be an equal and fair country, right? Romney and Obama will be a very close call, but honestly I think we should all vote Gary Johnson. :)

2. I don't believe it is that a blue-collar candidate is not realistic, but it's more so the fact that most (manual labor) working class are more focused on family rather than moving and spending months with others who pretend to care for them. America votes white-collar because we THINK they represent us well as a country, but in all honesty, we should really try to get a true blue-collar worker to represent the US and our American Dream.

BR 10-15-12 (absent)

I think "No Child Left Behind" was an ignorant and single-minded way to judge education in schools. Now, instead of focusing on education that I'll actually remember, it focuses on short-term knowledge that is only used to take the standardized test. Last year my lowest scores were in English and 21st Century and both of those classes I learned the most in.

BR 10-12-12

Biden was unprofessional, however he touched on and covered many more points than paul ryan ond obama in last weeks debate. I thought his speach was well thought out, but Ryan played a more professional approach.

BR 10-11-12

We should not continue with affirmative action, because I feel that every student has a choice for higher education and learning. There is no difference between black and white or any color for that matter. The racial era has been over for long enough that I feel we've made up for our wrong doings in the past; The colleges should not choose students based on racial or ethnic backgrounds nor should that even be considered. The whole "diversity" slots should not have to be filled; I believe that a college will filter through as many whites and blacks as they feel they have intellectually achieved.

BR 10-10-12

I don't understand why they are making such a big deal about these ads. It's ridiculous that they spend more time talking about Big Bird than actual issues in the US. This is dumb and a waste of my time.

BR 10-9-12

I think there are certain jobs you need to maintain a level of maturity, class, and profession such as teachers and other office and faith-based type jobs. I also think there needs to be a level of privacy of what employees post on internet social networks. There needs to be a clear set of rules for each job and if the person does not clean and edit their social network appropriately then they can be fired. I would not want someone working at World Vision who claims to be "christian" cussing and discussing her own sins in everyday life. It does invade privacy a bit, but companies need to maintain their standards.

BR 10-8-12

I think this is cool for people to be able to get the opportunity, but I think it's pretty silly. I mean, if I'm reading it right then that means JetBlue will be spending hundreds and thousands of dollars to send "losers" overseas. While I think this is a silly idea, I also believe I would be first in line to sign up. I don't know what more you want from this article, but it seems pretty cool.

BR 10-4-12

The presidential debate didn't cover many subjects, because Romney and Obama both rambled on about the subjects. Mostly, it covered education, healthcare, social security, taxes, federal regulation and energy. After the debate was over, a guy (whose name has slipped my memory) went over the facts that Obama and Romney spat out at the debate. If their mouth was open, they were lying. They stated untrue facts and false opinions. Obama supported money for greener energy and Romney supported continuing coal spending instead of adding more to the deficit. Romney disagreed with Obamacare and having one healthcare company but he decided to make more of a voucher system. Obama disagreed with this because he believed it would leave senior citizens to the wolves while fighting for healthcare to accept them. Obama wants to have a solid taz for citizens and Romney is okay with variation among classes, and although he talks about how hes trying to save middle class, he really is going to just take the money and give it to the people above us on the economical scale.

I thought this was a slow debate and I didn't enjoy it as much as the intraparty debates. Romney made it seem like he won, because he spoke clearly and quickly, but honestly, he spoke of no plan.

BR 10-3-12

1. It says my name is stereotyped as a Democrat, but I am completely independent party.


2. I think it was fixed for that voter id law to pass just 5 weeks before election. I don't understand why people are so mad about voter ID because all you have to do is go to the DMV and get your drivers license, but I completely understand why they would be mad about it just 5 weeks before election. It is not so easy for some people to obtain their birth records. I was lucky enough to have a mom that keeps track of everything for me.

BR 10-2-12

This is ridiculous that a president has the opportunity to appoint people in the Supreme Court. Romney is so up his religion's butt, that he doesnt take into account that other people have rights and you need to be fair even if you don't agree with it. We need representatives that are in the middle and do not lean towards one specific party, because they are usually stamps for the same party.

BR 10-1-12

I find it hard to believe that they are so crazy about any liquid over 3 oz., but have let people with loaded guns pass through security. They seriously need to re-evaluate their security system. Guns are waaayy more dangerous than hand sanitizer. I'm honestly a little worried about flyign now, and I LOVE to fly and travel. God forbid they allowed this on a flight to another country!

BR 9-28-12

                      Cons

1. You can get your concealed weapons license online
2. Many students aren't trained properly to use a gun
3. It causes uneasiness on campus knowing that anyone at anytime may have a gun
4. A college which has drugs, alcohol and wild kids should not also have the ability to carry guns
5.  If police -who are trained for this stuff- can injure 9 innocent bystanders then a student who has no training should not be allowed to carry a gun even if it may "save someones life" from a crazy columbine
6. It makes it harder to identify if there may be a possible shooting in a building if all students carry guns
7. People often shoot in fear before thinking causing avoidable tradgedy (Trayvon Martin)
8. You may not know how frightful a student is of guns and may cause them to be distracted in the classroom knowing their peer could pull a weapon on them at anytime
9. Students may become enraged and pull fire on anyone at any moment if we do not know their mental stability
10. Having guns makes it easier and more likely to raise crime rates; such as rapes and mugging in campus nightlife

                      Pros

1. It allows student to protect themselves against those who can and WILL use weapons on campus (even if requested not to)
2. Campuses do not check you as you come into and leave campus, so expecting a lunatic or deranged person to abide by the "no gun" rule is ridiculous.
3. It could have in many cases saved lives such as in Virginia Tech and other shootings
4. Licensing requires background checks and other filters to getting a gun license that prevent criminals to carry a gun
5. Crime has fallen with the rise of weapon carrying, because people are more aware that if they commit a serious crime, there will be vigilante reprocussions.

Social Awareness

                                                                                                                                            Sept. 28, 2012

Dear CNN,

I feel like abortion has been a rising issue in America throughout the years. This is not between a mother and her doctor anymore, but between the whole nation and religions. I realize that with each abortion a life is lost, but I don't think the pro-life activists realize what would happen if we had born all those babies.

The country needs to realize that it is not stable enough to feed, clothe, or give healthcare to all those babies. If we would bore all the children we must realize how many of those children would be mentally retarded, inbred, and orphaned. I 100% agree that if you are not mature enough to take care of a baby, then you should not be having sex, but imagine those children's lives.

Mothers would be in poverty with a family of grumbling tummies. We cannot expect a handout from each person with a pocket of cash. Some mothers believe they are doing the right thing by protecting their child from an awful life. In rape cases, do you feel that a wife should be forced to raise and birth a child and man should be forced to raise another mans baby? As a decent person, he probably would not object, but inside that must kill him.

If a child is ten years old and raped by her father, should she be forced to have a baby as a baby that could in the end kill her? Should she be forced to give up her life for something that was not in her control? Pro-life activists should recognize that each life is important that means even the ones that are born and have mental issues when the mother knew that the child would suffer its whole life with spina bifida.

Many children are born with diseases every day, but what if you had AIDS? Would you still have a child and force it to be scorned and ridiculed its whole life for your own mistake or problem? No. I believe its selfish to force a child to live out its life with a crackhead mother, or on the street begging for food, or in an orphanage waiting to have a better life, because his mother chose "life". What kind of "life" does the kid really have? I'd like to see someone tell me that they would rather be alive with a hindering disease that slowly eats at them, than be laid to rest peacefully.

United Nations Essay

 During the ratification of the constitution, the power was split between state and central government avoiding conflict in the states. Many memorable people helped develop the bill of rights in order to lay out our God given rights in the constitution that many people were concerened about. This caused many states to vote for the new constitution.

America is the only country that I know of that follows the constitution in their government and respects it (mostly). We give each citizen the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. We give each citizen fair trials and the right to an attorney if you cannot afford one. We are very humane to our citizens and we have more rights than most countries especially women!

Middle East countries have restricted many rights of their citizens by oppressing women and the lower community members. The men and higher "class" citizens get treated like royalty and have much control over the government. Polygamy is legal which is wrong and immoral, but their religion allows it. The federalist explains these rights to us as in the constitution to a happy life.

"If all men were angels, government would not be necessary." This is a very important quote, because its completely true. If all society lived with morals and respect for human life and well-being, a government would not be necessary, because our actions would be from the good of our heart. But because we are not all innocent, all are restricted to laws and limits.

BR 9-27-12

I think schools need to focus more on the organic quality and nutrition in the foods rather than calories. They're completely right about feeding growing kids

BR 9-26-12

I think obesity is a huge issue especially in young adults, but our schools should allow us small amounts of sugar and sweets, because if our body does not get that craving we automatically indulge when we get home. They leave us unsatisfied and our tummys grumbling after lunch; soemtimes we would like a little treat.

Political Quizzes

1st. Post-modern
2nd. Independent leaning a LITTLE towards democrat
3rd. I was definitely a libertarian.
4th. I have been and still am libertarian
5th. This one is way off, because it says I'm conservative
6th. I went from a libertarian to republican overnight.
7th. 100% socialist
8th. 40% conservative and 60% liberal

BR 9-25-12

Although, I do not feel it is the schools job to distribute those products to the students, I feel like it can be very helpful to prevent students dropping out from preventative pregnancies. Things like that should be taught in the home. People need to learn their place as parents, and take control. My goodness, if you're dumb enough to have sex without any contraception or form of transportation to get to the clinic then you shouldn't be risking reproducing. -__- people get dumber and dumber each generation.

BR 9-24-12

Romney was ignorant in saying that 47% of Americans are lazy and muchers, but I'm tired of hearing it. Seriously, Romney is a dirtball, and Obama is a good hearted idiot. The article just restates everything I've heard in the past 4 days.

1. Answer the following question: Why is there a constitution day and what mandated it?

There is a constitution day to celebrate our rights as citizens and the day that it was ratified.

2. Could you pass the US citizenship test....find five links on the Internet and take the quizzes and post the links and your scores.

 

1. www.blogthings.com/couldyoupasstheuscitizenshiptestquiz/  70%

2. www.factmonster.com/quizzes/citizenship1/11.html   60%

3. http://usnews.nbcnews.com/_news/2012/07/03/12546953-could-you-pass-the-us-citizenship-test?lite  80%

 

3. Constitution Day Scavenger Hunt with 60-Second Civics
You and your teammates have been given a set of clues to identify nine delegates to theConstitutional Convention that was held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in the summer of 1787. In order to complete your task you need the clues provided by your teacher and podcasts from the Center for Civic Education. The podcasts are available at
http://new.civiced.org/framers.

Step 1: Your teacher has assigned you a certain number of podcasts. In listening to them you should be able to determine which nine delegates your clues indicate. As soon as you think you have identified the delegates, check with your teacher to determine if you are correct. If you are, then move on to the next part of the assignment. If you are not, continue listening until you found the correct delegates.

Step 2:
Review the nine correct podcasts and complete the information required in the box adjoining each clue. You must also choose two additional facts about your delegate.
Step 3: Sharing your information. Your teacher will direct your group on how to share the information you have gathered about your delegates with the class.
Constitution Day Scavenger Hunt with 60-Second Civics

Teacher Resource 3: Clue Sheet
Reproduce the chart below in word and complete it. Then separate the clues and randomly group them into sets of nine. Distribute one set to each group.

1. Clue: He refused to sign the Constitution.

Name: George Mason
State: Virginia
Age/Year of Birth: Dec.11, 1775
Two Additional Clues: He worked with George Washington, and led to the creation of the Bill Of Rights.

2. Clue: This delegate was the head of the Virginia delegation to the convention.

Name: George Washington
State: Virginia
Age/Year of Birth: March 16, 1751
Two Additional Clues: Co-wrote federalist papers and guided Bill of Rights.

3. Clue: He practiced in law in Williamsburg.

Name: John Blair
State: Virginia
Age/Year of Birth: 1732
Two Additional Clues: One of the judges at Supreme Court in Virginia and was nominated by Washington

4. Clue: He studied medicine in Scotland.

Name: Benjamin Rush
State: Pennsylvania
Age/Year of Birth: Dec. 24, 1745
Two Additional Clues: Rush was appointed to the Provincial Conference, and then to the Continental Congress a month later

5. Clue: This Framer emancipated his slaves in his will.

Name: George Washington
State: Virginia
Age/Year of Birth: March 16, 1761
Two Additional Clues: Did not originally want to go to the convention. Guided Bill of Rights

6. Clue: He was responsible for the Judiciary Act of 1789.

Name: John Adams
State: Massachusettes
Age/Year of Birth: Oct 30, 1735
Two Additional Clues: Was puritan and agreed with Patriot Cause

7. Clue: He was the chairman of the Committee on Style.

Name: Rufus King
State: Massachusettes
Age/Year of Birth: March 24th, 1755
Two Additional Clues: attended mass. ratification; his occupation was public security interests

8. Clue: He served on the committees that draft both the Declaration of Independence and the Article of Confederation.

Name: Benjamin Franklin
State: Massachusettes
Age/Year of Birth: Jan 17, 1706
Two Additional Clues: Was the postmaster general of the US; Was on the first US postage stamp (now 100 dollar bill)

9. Clue: He studied law in Philadelphia.

Name: George Reed
State: Pennsylvania
Age/Year of Birth: Sept. 18, 1733
Two Additional Clues: Signed the declararion of independence; served as US senator of delaware

10. Clue: He was a roommate of James Madison at the College of New Jersey.

Name:
State:
Age/Year of Birth:
Two Additional Clues:

11. Clue: He served as the first postmaster general of Wilmington.

Name:
State:
Age/Year of Birth:
Two Additional Clues:

12. Clue: He voted against independence and did sign the Declaration of Independence.

Name:
State:
Age/Year of Birth:
Two Additional Clues:

13. Clue: He voted against the independence, but signed the Declaration of Independence.

Name:
State:
Age/Year of Birth:
Two Additional Clues:

14. Clue: He was born in Connecticut.

Name:
State:
Age/Year of Birth:
Two Additional Clues:

15. Clue: During the Revolution he served as a lieutenant colonel in the dragoons.

Name:
State:
Age/Year of Birth:
Two Additional Clues:

BR 9-21-12

I really wonder what this man did. Also, it says "we miss you." Who is "we" does she have a baby? I don't really think I'd be too convinced that he was sorry, by making another mistake by painting on the van -__- Im not really a romantic.. sooooo.... yeah.

Assignent 9-19-12

1. The First Amendment includes:
      No law can be passed respecting an establishment of religion
     Free excercise of Religion
     Freedom of Speech
     Right to Peaceful Petition
     Freedom of Press

2. It is hard to say exactly how much privacy we have with technology in the 21st century, because everything we search, everybody we contact and everywhere we go is recorded, whether we know it or not. Between siri and GPS, if I share information with somebody on my smart phone, they can find me at anytime. Even the developers of "smart phones" say that everyhting we do on our phones is recorded and put into a system to "better our experience." The phone gets to know you; The internet controls you, and the government closely watches you. We barely have freedom in our own home.

3. The Patriot Act is a law stating that the government can, without your permission, listen in on phone calls, read texts, emails, and messages sent to others. It states that it would be used for tracking of illegal exchanges such as murders or drug deals. It is the government being able to listen in on private conversation, but states that they must stop listening after 60 seconds, because that would be an invasion of personal rights.

4. I believe this is extreme violation of our privacy rights, because the government should not be allowed to read every text or listen on every phone call. This could be embarassing and quite cruel. They're barging more into our homes every day, and we just sit back and allow it because they tell us "it's the law." I think America needs to re-evaluate and re-teach our rights to our students.

5.  There was one case I found that a woman was "protecting her rights" when she wanted to get an abortion. It was between her and her doctor. I dont think this is really an invasion of privacy because thats also like saying you can beat your child, because it is in your household? I think she was just being ridiculous.

6.http://www.govtech.com/security/Controlling-Government-Abuse-of-Our-Right.html?page=2
                                               

BR 9-20-12

Its his own home? I dont think it should be illegal. Its his car; he should know where it's going. He didn't technically do anything illegal, but that lady might want to rethink her choice of husbands. I rest my case. That is extremely weird though.

BR Topless

It is an EXTREME invasion of privacy to take pictures of private property and publically announce them. She has the right to walk out on her lawn naked. What is this world coming to? Perverts.

BR 9-18-12

This article started out talking about hate groups and youtube videos and ended talking about facebook's ban on exposed breasts. Personally, it is my right to post (as long as it is not a threat or libel) anything I want on my facebook or twitter or youtube, as long as the sight does not forbid it. Nudity is allowed on internet sites, just not specifically facebook or other public social networks. If we banned all videos on youtube that mock or criticize a religion or faith, we're going to have to go through a lot of videos. It is not this person's fault that they become more offended than other religions? I'll protect my freedom; internet is part of that freedom. You cannot control that. (SOPA, PIPA)

(Yet Another) BR 9-17-12

First, I'd like to say I think it's ridiculous that a 15 minute video could cause an uproar so amazing in the United States and Islamic countries. We have the right to make and post videos and have our own opinion. This article talked in circles and I didn't really understand the point.

BR 9-17-13

Okay, I realize that obesity is a HUGE issue in the United States and our government is forced to pay for those without health insurance when they have to be treated for heart disease, failure or gastrointestinal problems, but limiting your sugary drinks are not the governments business. Those are basics to be taught in the home. Occasionally I should be allowed as a US citizen to drink a 24 oz. bottle of Dr.Pepper, even if I was not allowed thats not stopping me from eating a big mac or quarter pounder?
"Over 150 Years of Research Shows People Consume What They Want."

Candidate Test

I sided 91% with Gary Johnson on Healthcare, Domestic Policy, Environment, Economy, Foreign Policy, Immigration, Science, and Social.

9-11 Essay

After the terrible tragedy that happened eleven years ago, our country has never been the same. On September 11, 2001 our country was attacked by Al Queda terrorists causing the twin towers and the world trade center to completely collapse and burn up in flames. This was not only an attack of our buildings and people, but an attack to our American pride. Not only did it kill many people, it tore families apart and left gaping holes in our heavy hearts.

America soon went under extreme surveilance and caused national security to sky rocket. Our airports now are equipped properly to detect any weapon that someone may try to bring aboard the plane. We do background checks for passports and many other searches to ensure America's safety. Instead of taking one hour to board a plane, it now takes almost two to just get through the line. They've enstilled fear in every American traveler since that awful day.
    
Next, it caused extreme racism in America. Nobody can deny it. When you see a man or woman in a turban, you automatically judge them. It's probably not even on purpose, but seeing a terrorist attack on our country made us believe that all Muslims hate Christians, and guess what religion is prominant in America. What would you think if you saw a man in a turban riding on the same plane as you?

The families that were effected are still struggling today with the loss of husbands, sons, daughters, mothers, and even children. To them, every year they are reminded and choose to never forget what happened to our country that Sept. 11, 2001. People lost their jobs, lives, loved ones, and the feeling of safety in their own country. America was knocked down a few notches; like a hit to our ego and our president. Our whole country gathered, cried, mourned, and reflected what had happened on the news.

With all that tragedy, there came good. America reunited! We had forgotten that even in our own cultures and differences, we are still one strong, united country. Iraq was reminded that we will not bow, and they cannot take our safety. America would fight as one, and join together to finish the war that they began.
    

9-11 Collage

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BR 9-13-12

I'm glad we were recognized, but I wish they would've actually listened to our ideas. All we did was shovel gravel and paint. We had many more ideas on making the school beautiful!

9-11 Timeline

Timeline of Events on 9-11-2001

1. 7:59 am – American Airlines Flight 11, a Boeing 767 with 92 people aboard, takes off from Boston's Logan International Airport en route to Los Angeles.

2. 8:14 am – United Airlines Flight 175, a Boeing 767 with 65 people aboard, takes off from Boston; it is also headed to Los Angeles.

3. 8:19 am – Flight attendants aboard Flight 11 alert ground personnel that the plane has been hijacked; American Airlines notifies the FBI.

4. 8:20 am – American Airlines Flight 77 takes off from Dulles International Airport outside of Washington, D.C. The Boeing 757 is headed to Los Angeles with 64 people aboard.

5. 8:24 am – Hijacker Mohammed Atta makes the first of two accidental transmissions from Flight 11 to ground control (apparently in an attempt to communicate with the plane's cabin).

6. 8:40 am – The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) alerts North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD)'s Northeast Air Defense Sector (NEADS) about the suspected hijacking of Flight 11. In response, NEADS scrambles two fighter planes located at Cape Cod's Otis Air National Guard Base to locate and tail Flight 11; they are not yet in the air when Flight 11 crashes into the North Tower.

7. 8:41 am – United Airlines Flight 93, a Boeing 757 with 44 people aboard, takes off from Newark International Airport en route to San Francisco. It had been scheduled to depart at 8:00 am, around the time of the other hijacked flights.

• 8:46 am – Mohammed Atta and the other hijackers aboard American Airlines Flight 11 crash the plane into floors 93-99 of the North Tower of the World Trade Center, killing everyone on board and hundreds inside the building.
8. 8:47 am – Within seconds, NYPD and FDNY forces dispatch units to the World Trade Center, while Port Authority Police Department officers on site begin immediate evacuation of the North Tower.

9. 8:50 am – White House Chief of Staff Andrew Card alerts President George W. Bush that a plane has hit the World Trade Center; the president is visiting an elementary school in Sarasota, Florida at the time.

10. 9:02 am – After initially instructing tenants of the WTC's South Tower to remain in the building, Port Authority officials broadcast orders to evacuate both towers via the public address system; an estimated 10,000 to 14,000 people are already in the process of evacuating.

11. 9:03 am – Hijackers crash United Airlines Flight 175 into floors 75-85 of the WTC's South Tower, killing everyone on board and hundreds inside the building

12. 9:08 am – The FAA bans all takeoffs of flights going to New York City or through the airspace around the city.

13. 9:21 am – The Port Authority closes all bridges and tunnels in the New York City area.

14. 9:24 am – The FAA notified NEADS of the suspected hijacking of Flight 77 after some passengers and crew aboard are able to alert family members on the ground.

15. 9:31 am – Speaking from Florida, President Bush calls the events in New York City an "apparent terrorist attack on our country."

16. 9:37 am – Hijackers aboard Flight 77 crash the plane into the western façade of the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., killing 59 aboard the plane and 125 military and civilian personnel inside the building.

17. 9:42 am – For the first time in history, the FAA grounds all flights over or bound for the continental United States. Some 3,300 commercial flights and 1,200 private planes are guided to airports in Canada and the United States over the next two-and-a-half hours.

18. 9:45 am – Amid escalating rumors of other attacks, the White House and U.S. Capitol building are evacuated (along with numerous other high-profile buildings, landmarks and public spaces).

19. 9:59 am – The South Tower of the World Trade Center collapses.

20. 10:07 am – After passengers and crew members aboard the hijacked Flight 93 contact friends and family and learn about the attacks in New York and Washington, they mount an attempt to retake the plane. In response, hijackers deliberately crash the plane into a field in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, killing all 40 passengers and crew aboard.

21. 10:28 am – The World Trade Center's North Tower collapses, 102 minutes after being struck by Flight 11.

22. 11 am – Mayor Rudolph Giuliani calls for the evacuation of Lower Manhattan south of Canal Street, including more than 1 million residents, workers and tourists, as efforts continue throughout the afternoon to search for survivors at the WTC site.

23. 1 pm – From a U.S. Air Force base in Louisiana, President Bush announces that U.S. military forces are on high alert worldwide.

24. 2:51 pm – The U.S. Navy dispatches missile destroyers to New York and Washington, D.C.

25. 5:20 pm – The 47-story Seven World Trade Center collapses after burning for hours; the building had been evacuated in the morning, and there are no casualties, though the collapse forces rescue workers to flee for their lives.

26. 6:58 pm – President Bush returns to the White House after stops at military bases in Louisiana and Nebraska.

27. 8:30 pm – President Bush addresses the nation, calling the attacks "evil, despicable acts of terror" and declaring that America, its friends and allies would "stand together to win the war against terrorism."

28. American citizens gather and mourn for the deaths of their loved ones.

29. The news continues to play the tragedy on TV to remind the U.S. that we are not invincible, but we are also not going to let this happen to our free country.

30. Operation Enduring Freedom, the American-led international effort to oust the Taliban regime in Afghanistan and destroy Osama bin Laden's terrorist network based there, began on October 7.

BR 9-10-12

I enjoy the way Obama speaks and interacts with different races and backgrounds. He is very motivating and captivating in his speeches, and he gets the attention of many. His voice has character and variation unlike Romney's monotone "white-man-speech."

BR 9-6/7

1) Democrats tried to take God completely out of the platform and Jerusalem as the capitol of Israel. NO! I disagree; I'm not sure what you want me to say about this, but I hate elections.

2) Uhm, I dont even like Romney, but theres no way (at this point) that taking away our right to bear arms will reduce gun violence. I'm tired of election talk. They're both evil.

3) Nixon sounded pretty good. I think?

BR 9-5-12

WOOOWWWW. Unnecessary! This is not a security issue; why should people be prevented from seeing family members or good friends. Alabama is seriously just trying to be ignorant about this. I have nothing more to say on the matter.

BR 9-4-12

First of all, I'd like to say that when I was younger my tooth better be cavity free and pearly white for me to even receive 5 bucks! Twenty bucks for a child losing a tooth is absolutely ridiculous. Why is there even an article written about this? Each family takes the tooth fairy idea differently and discusses it in different ways. (just like santa or the easter bunny).

Similarities and Differences

             James Madison                      same                                          Elbridge Gerry         

            young/unmarried                              Men                                              Vice President
            Virginia Plan                                Federalists                                      From Massachusettes
           From Virginia                             Lots of Siblings                                 Old/Married
         Died June 28, 1836                    Signed Constitution                         Died November 23, 1814
                                                            Spoke at Convention
   

BR 8-31-12

I think it sucks that many people cannot afford the photo I.D.s, but I think the government has the right to know who is voting... How would you be able to tell who is voting if they didnt have I.D.? that's like having a written piece of paper stating that you could drive.

BR 8-30-12

I expected there to be more hurricanes in New Orleans. They live in a bowl! Why is everyone so surprised and in panicking about this?

BR 8-29-12

This is ridiculous! Of course its a crime! If you fake your own death, you live free of taxes, you could commit crimes and nobody would think it was you, and you're basically just existing for free! That's like saying its not illegal to come here from a different country and NOT become a citizen. smh...

Silent Debate 8-28-12

Who are you? How old were you in 1787?
-My name is James Madison. In 1787 I was 36 years old.

Are you a Federalist or Anti-Federalist?
I am a federalist; I support a central power.


What is your personal history up to 1787?
Born in 1751, I grew up as the oldest of 12 siblings in a Virginia home with a father who owned a plantation with dozens of slaves. I attended what is now known as Princeton University, and graduated in 1771. December of 1774, I was elected to the Orange County Commitee of Safety and then selected to represent Orange County in the Virginia Convention. In 1777, I lost my bid for a seat in the Virginia Assembly, but was later appointed to the Governor's Council. I strongly supported the American-French alliance during the revolution, and solely handled much of the council's correspondence with France. In 1780, I went to Philadelphia to serve as one of Virginia's delegates to Continental Congress.


What was your role in the Constitutional Convention?
I represented Virginia in the convention, and spoke on behalf of the Virginia Plan that consisted of three branches of government: executive, legislative, and judicial. I spoke over 200 times at the constitution. I had to talk George Washington into attending the Covention.


What stated views would explain your actions during the Constitutional Convention? (use quotations & cite sources)
Because I developed the Virginia Plan, I supported the Constitution greatly and created ideas to make others vote for the Constitution as well.



What is your stance during the ratifying conventions? Who supports your viewpoint?
I helped write the federalist paper to encourage states to vote for the constitution. In the ratifying conventions, I helped establish the bill of rights to come to a better agreement on the constitution of the 13 colonies. Only a few states supported the constitution until it was modified.


What are your views of this new plan of government? What are the benefits or dangers?
I think if we split the power among 3 branches it will keep the country from becoming a dictatorship rather than democracy. The benefits of the constitution is it protects our rights as citizens.

BR 8-28-12

I think once you commit an act of "traitorism" against the United States of America, you should lose your rights as an American citizen. He's lucky he even gets a bed to sleep in, a TV to watch, and wash their clothes-- FOR FREE! It doesn't prevent prayer, it prevents group prayers frequently in the jail, because it allows too much contact between prisoners. I wouldn't want to gather a group of people who aided al Qaeda together!

Notes 8-27-12

Constitution was signed Sept. 1787 & active 1789

Federalists supported the constitution with more power to the central government: James Madison, Rufus King, James Wilson, John Jay, George Read, Roger Sherman, Alexander Hamilton, George Washington, etc.

Anti-federalists wanted more power to the states rather than central government: Patrick Henry, Richard Henry Lee, Elbridge Gerry, George Mason, George Clinton, Samuel Adams, Robert Yates, Melancton Smith, etc.

The Federalist Papers written by 3 men, to get support for the constitution.
Constitution states that 9 states must ratify the constitution in order for it to become a government document.
Delaware was the 1st state; 9th state: New Hampshire; 13th state: Rhode Island

BR 8-27-12

I think it's ridiculous that a religion requires you to always wear skirts, considering there are many activities and classes that require you to wear material that you can move around in (phys. ed., etc.). This is the 21st century; come on, however, because McShan had previously informed them of her beliefs, and the skirt would not hinder her working, she had every right to sue. Burger King should've kept their information straight.

BR 8-24-12

Twitter can be very fatal for a candidates voters. There have been fake accounts made to sabotage elections, and have been retweeted many times to the point people actually believe them...That's really all I got from that article?

assignment 8-23

1. Define the Constitution…..in your own words in a PARAGRAPH (3-5 sentences)
The constitution was a document that separated power equally, and gave us our rights as a country. The constitution was written to establish a fair government. This idea, however, is slowly being taken away by new congressmen and law enforcement.

2. How would your life be without the constitution ?

      My life would be miserable, and we would basically be under dictatorship. Our lives would be censored and only allowed to know what the government allowed us to know. We would all live in oppression.

3. Define the following words:

Ratification
confirmation

Faction
a group inside a larger group

Federalism
the distribution of power in an organization (as a government) between a central authority and the constituent units

Federalist/ Antifederalist
a member of a major political party in the early years of the United States favoring a strong centralized national government ; anti: someone who is against strong centralized governments

Compromise
settlement of differences by arbitration or by consent reached by mutual concessions

The Great Compromise (Connecticut Compromise)
 The Connecticut Compromise split the representatives into 2 groups: Senate and House of Reps; It would send two reps for each state (no matter the population) and 1 senator for every 30,000 residents of the state.

Checks and Balances

3 branches of government; legislative executive and judicial that keeps one branch from becoming too powerful.

Democratic Republic
Where the people elect officials to represent their state. 

Delegated Powers of the Federal Government

Reserved Powers of the State Governments

Separation of Powers

Civil Liberties

Citizenship Test

I failed the test; I cannot be an American citizen... I got a 5/10    

BR 8-23-12

Paul Ryan waved the "terrible towel"... who cares? Your choice of football team should not affect your vote, and if it does, then you're not mature enough to fill out a ballot. I dont understand why Wisconsin made such a big deal; They WON the superbowl against Steelers two years ago.

BR 8-22-12

It's getting very close to election, and it seems like the debate gets more personal as November nears. In the end, I'm pretty sure Obama's going to win, honestly.

About Me

1. I have three dogs and like 15 chickens
2. I live with both my parents
3. I was born in New Jersey