Politics

President Obama Speaks to Students

Tuesday, September 8th, 2009
by Antonio Viva

What are your reactions to President Obama’s speech to American students? Do you feel he made a solid case for asking students to be active participants in their education. Did he focus on responsibility too much? What did you think? Was he persuasive or did he miss the mark?

Popularity: 7% [?]

The Importance Of January 20, 2009

Sunday, February 1st, 2009
by pathoran00

January 20th, 2009 was not a regular cold, winter-like Tuesday.  It was instead one of those days that will be referenced to in every history textbook and probably will be one of those days you have to remember the date from when talking about American History.  This day was the Inauguration of President Barack Obama.

This day will be remembered forever because of multiple factors, besides the fact that it was a President’s Inauguration.  The first reason for this day being so important, was that it was the Inauguration of the first minority president.  This is such a big deal because of the history of minorities in the United States.  For a long time in America, minorities, including African-Americans, were treated as lower citizens than Caucasians.  They were put into slavery for hundreds of years and after they were granted their freedom, they were still segregated against.  This day will serve as a major stepping-stone for the civil rights movement, as America finally looks like it is treating everyone as equals.    Having a minority as president was long overdue, and on 20th of January, it became reality.

Another reason why this was such an important Inauguration, was because it also marked the end of the last president, and the tough times America is going through as a result of the last president.  Over the course of the last eight years under President Bush, the country has gone from being ahead of everyone in almost every category to becoming the world’s dormat.  With the economy in turmoil, the country being involved in two wars, and with America having the worst image it has had in a long time, Barack Obama came to the surface preaching of change and hope for a new future. January 20th will mark as both the end of tough times for America, and the start of a new beginning.

The last reason why I believe that January 20th will be a date that is remembered forever, is because of what I think will be the result of Barack Obama being inaugurated.  I think from that day forward, the country will forever be changed.  I believe that Barack Obama, although it will be very difficult to do, has the right mindset, personality, and ideas to bring about change to America.  America will once again be known as the greatest country has I believe the economy will go up, the wars will slowly come to an end, and the use of different energies will help our environmental state.  I believe that January 20th 2009 will be forever remembered because it will be known as the beginning of new times for America, and probably the world too.

Photot credit: Chuckumentary

Popularity: 6% [?]

How about “historic”?

Saturday, January 10th, 2009
by Josh L

This is huge. This is monumental. This is colossal. This is… how about historic?

The presidential election of 2008 has been by far the most historic. With a diverse lot of candidates, the election had already spun the minds of democrats, republicans, and anything in between. The icing on the cake was the election of the first ever African-American president. The election itself was a beating and a half. But if one were to look at the circumstances, the question might arise, “how did that happen”? The answer: social media.

Like I said, historic.

The election was historic not only because of the result, but also because of the process that led to the result. With the integration of social media into politics, Barack Obama was able to promote and advertise his campaign, far greater than what he would have been able to accomplish without the use of social media. With tools such as Facebook, and YouTube, he was able to captivate his audience, with overwhelming success, I might add.

And to think, I, little insignificant Josh Lopez from Worcester Academy, will be able to report on it, with the title “social media reporter”–that is intense. But hey, historic times, calls for historic measures.

Photo Credit: Tony the Misfit

Popularity: 5% [?]

Obama Conquers Modern Campaign

Monday, December 29th, 2008
by pathoran00

Obama 365, McCain173.  A smack down.  That’s exactly what this past election was.  Barack Obama beat John McCain in every aspect of the election.  Although there are many factors that might have led to this, there is one that stands out above the rest.

That would be the modern campaign that Obama ran in his journey to the White House.  Instead of following with the norm of the traditional campaigning, such as spending most of campaign money on rally’s and appearances, Obama used other tactics such as networking on the internet, podcasts, and Youtube videos.  Of course, Obama did not abandon the traditional campaign. As he held numerous rally’s across the country, in front of large and small crowds instead.  He combined new and old techniques in order to win the election.

First, He created an interactive website, following the popular website Facebook.  On his website people could create a personal account, become friend with other members, and join groups to support Obama, such as “Massachusetts 4 Obama” and “Lawyers for Obama”.  People in the groups had an easier time than in past campaign’s with setting up events in support of the Democratic candidate, raising money, or just blogging against John McCain.  By basing his website, mybarackobama.org, off the popular Facebook, Obama was able to accomplish some key goals in his campaigning and created the most modern campaign site to date.

Obama also used podcasts to help win the election.  The podcasts enabled people to be able to hear Obama’s thoughts and ideas on their iPods or computers.  Everyone these days uses iPods.  The podcasts were short, monthly episodes that would provide information on Obama’s campaign and the upcoming schedule.  This way people who maybe did not have time to go check the status of the campaign on television or online could listen to the podcasts whenever, whether they were working out, driving to work, or just missed the news.  The podcasts also reached out to younger voters, as they were the ones most involved in new technologies like the podcasts.  The podcasts that Barack Obama put online were very helpful in his modern campaign.

The third factor of the modern campaigning that helped Obama become elected, was the development of online videos, most notably on the popular site Youtube.  Many Barack Obama supporters used sites such as Youtube as a way of free advertisement.  When you search “Barack Obama” on Youtube, it says there are 68,900 like videos about the President Elect.  These videos were mostly put up by Obama supporters.  This modern technique of campaigning again helped to gain votes by the younger voting age bracket.  Youtube is one of the most visited sites online today, especially by people between 18-25.  This age bracket lives on this site and it would probably be very likely that they would see atleast one video supporting Obama everytime they checked the site.  Obama and his staff took advantage of this by having videos put up daily, everything from his press conferences, to his rallies, and even videos made by celebrities.  This free advertising helped to connect with young voters and grow their level of support.  Obama conquered Youtube, and in turn it helped to conquer the election.

Barack Obama used a modern campaign to capture the White House.  Obama stayed ahead of the curve and moved from old ways of campaigning to new modern ways.  By the using his website, podcasts, and  videos on Youtube, Obama was able to adapt to change in times and create a totally modern Campaign that helped him win the Election.  If Obama’s opponent, John McCain had tried to adapt to the modern campaigning then this election might not have been such a smack down.

Photo Credit: zyrcster

Popularity: 13% [?]

Same Sex Marriage- Proposition 8

Sunday, November 30th, 2008
by emma.phillips

Just recently a proposition for same sex marriage was voted on in California. Proposition eight was written to amend the states constitution to change the definition of marriage and restrict it to just between a man and a woman. Even though there was recently a California State Supreme Court decision making same sex marriage legal, this ballet overrode that decision. To vote yes on this amendment meant that you were in favor of changing the constitution and against same sex marriage. There was a five-point percentage difference between the yes and no votes. The people against same sex marriage won with 52.2% and the people for same sex marriage lost with 47.8%.

Many have struggled and sacrificed a great deal to try and convince people to vote no against a second-class status for same sex couples. Same sex couples want the equality and freedom that heterosexual couples have. California has been one of the first states to  have voted for the freedom of marriage and the equality of all spouses no matter what gender they are.

Proposition eight eliminated the rights for a large group of people living in California. One reason people voted for the proposition is because they believed that allowing the law to stand would allow children to be taught about same sex marriage in schools.  In fact, California law prohibits children to be taught about family or health issues without the consent of a parent. Every one, even people living in California, should have the choice to marry who they want, it is a freedom guaranteed by the California Constitution, proposition eight aims to take away basic freedoms from same gender couples.

Since same sex marriage has become illegal in California people who supported same sex marriage came together in a rally of protest. Though it is not yet clear what impact the ban will have on approximately eighteen thousand same sex couples in the state. The California Constitution should guarantee the same freedoms to everyone; no one should be singled out and be treated differently. In the United States the founding fathers desired equal protection under the law. To take away the rights of one group may lead to the seizure of other rights such as religious, freedom or civil rights. The freedom to marriage is essential in our society and by letting same sex couples marry it conveys the dignity and respect to the lifetime commitment couples make.

Some people are concerned that traditional marriage may be impacted; however one abolished marriage tradition was only allowing members of the upper class or the nobility to marry. Also, arranged marriages that proceeded without the couples consent were once tradition.  There was once only a tradition for white people to marry and for races to never mix. Again, all these various marriage traditions have been destroyed or changed. How come the constitution cannot include same sex marriage?

Marriage is a right and should not exclude same sex couples. Even though proposition eight was passed in California there will be another vote. The couples that have been married since the law passed in June that made homosexual marriages legal in California face legal limbo.  By passing this proposition a group has been singled out and rights have been taken away. No group of people should be discriminated against because of their sexual preferences.

Photo by: shizzy0

Photo by: maxintosh

Photo by: david_shankbone

Photo by: shizzy0

Popularity: 12% [?]

November 4, 2008

Saturday, November 15th, 2008
by chris d

A day can seem like a very long time, especially when many things happen to someone. My personal experience goes to prove that one seemingly ordinary day can turn out feeling like a year. What I mean by this is that so many things can happen, that they all seem to blend together and seem to go by so fast. One of these days occurred to me just this week, on the day of the election.

I was driving to work when I saw light flashing up ahead. That was when I thought it might just be cross-town traffic. Of course, it wasn’t. What it was police officers pulling over every car and inspecting them. Not just looking at the driver and looking under the car. We are talking about full out searches. There were police officers tearing apart the cars that they had stopped. I so hoped that I would not get pulled over. All I had intended to do this morning was to go down the highway a few exits to the local high school, vote for Barack Obama, and be on my way to work. My day was much more complicated than this.

Upon reaching the roadblock, I was waved over to the side of the road by one of the officers. I pulled over, and rolled down my window and greeted the Police officer. After looking at the officer for a second, he exclaimed that I had to exit my car, and go with him. Of course I was opposed to this, and told him so. I asked him why should I go with him. I hadn’t done anything wrong. I was just on my way to vote for our next president. The officer demanded that I come with him, before he took me by force. Still not receiving an answer, I become very enraged. I then proceeded to start the engine of my car.

Upon starting my engine, the police officer pulled out his gun, and threatened to shoot me if I did not exit my vehicle, and come with him. I do not know what compelled me to, but I felt the need to go, so I floored the gas, and was on my way very quickly. I did not know why I had just done what I had, but I decided that there was no turning back now, so I proceeded to speed down the interstate, and off at my exit. Looking in my rear view mirror right before getting on the exit, I saw what appeared to be a storm of flashing lights behind me. The police had perused me, and I did not even know why I was in trouble to begin with.

All I could think about in my mind was getting to the high school, and voting. That was my biggest worry, and I felt that it was my duty to vote. My vote makes a difference, and I wanted to voice my opinion. After racing past countless blocks of non-descript buildings, I reached the high school, and hastily got out of my car. I ran into the lobby and prayed that there wasn’t a big line, and thankfully there wasn’t.

Receiving my ballot, filling it out and turning it in seemed amazing to me. It was the first time that I had voted, and it felt great to know that I had a part in the future of my country. While leaving the school, I had totally forgotten about the police offices chasing me. That was when the beanbag hit me, and I passed out. What a wonderful place America is.

Popularity: 15% [?]

WA Mash Election 2008 Festival Coverage

Monday, November 3rd, 2008
by Antonio Viva

WA Mash Election Festival Coverage

(11/03/2008)  Powered by: CoveritLive

  

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8:57	Antonio Viva:  Stay tunned tomorrow for live blogging updates from WA Mash writers and contributors!!

6:15	Antonio Viva:  Well today is the day. Almost two years in the making. WA Mash will be covering the presidential election and Worcester Academy’s election festival all day today. Be sure to check into our live blog coverage, follow us on Twitter and use our website for resources!

7:42	Antonio Viva:  Students are beginning to arrive on campus. WA Mash students needing laptops should stop by my office before advisory.

8:25

Brian R:  I’m currently at the Keynote Address. I’m a little late due to technical problems. Darn Firefox update. There appears to be someone answering questions about new media and blogging about the election. Well that’s interesting. I wish I was able to see more of this. In a few minutes I’ll be moving on to the independant’s rally. Stay tuned…

8:34	Brian R:  A miscommunication already. Both the democrats and independants went to the megaron. Now I have to walk all the way back over to the student center to support absolutely no one. This place seems more exciting.

8:35	alexd:  the democrats are creating havoc in the megaron

8:36	alexd:  Obama gets great applause after his first answer.

8:36	Lilly S:  Waiting for the Democratic rally to begin…people are flooding in order to show their support for Obama

8:39	alexd:  Senator Biden has entered the building and is on the mic.

8:40	Lilly S:  Obama promising a withdrawal from Iraq within the next six months? sounds like CHANGE!

8:40	alexd:  The Democrats getting a “Change” chant going on in the megaron.

8:40	Josh:  This isn’t fair.

8:40	alexd:  fair?

8:40	Josh:  The Republican rally is in the pit in Warner. It’s cramped, and every time I turn in my chair I hit about fifteen people.

8:41	Josh:  I think whoever organized this thing is trying to send a message. I can read between the lines.

8:41	alexd:  Well the Democrat rally is fantastic

8:42

Brian R:  Ok I’m back on track. I’m sitting in a very sterile independants rally. It’s almost as if these people have no passion one way or another…wierd. People are talking amongst themselves, waiting for something to happen. I’m interested to see what kind of things they do here. I just got a little glimpse of the democratic rally (more like a party, I think they’re feeling confident?), and this one seems really boring in comparison. But we’d rather keep our options open. I’ll be sure to let you know when something actually happens…

8:42	Lilly S:  Ample leg room..

8:42	Josh:  Who is Obama by the way?

8:42	Lilly S:  Andrew Fan

8:43	Josh:  Wonderful.

8:43	Lilly S:  and Karin Wefald on Joe Biden

8:44	Josh:  I retract my previous statements. It’s cool down here. It’s like one cozy, little family.

8:44	alexd:  Mr. Viva has entered the megaron…the MAN himself

8:44	Josh:  The Republicans are really fired up with a “John McCain!” chant

8:45	Lilly S:  Lots of passion here in the Megaron. People are showing their support with chants and cheers, stomping and waving, hooting and hollering. Can’t wait to see how we represent the democratic part in the debate.

8:45	alexd:  ”Lets change the Indepedants” has just arrised from the democrats

8:46	Brian R:  We have some action. Press conference!

8:46	Josh:  We’re going to rock this debate.

8:47	Mike S.:   Biden is CLAIMING he wants to lower taxes hear at the indepandent rally

8:48	Brian R:  Joe Biden is laying out the democratic economic plan for the T&G. Helping 95% of people. Biden’s playing up to the student body, talking about college and job opportunities. Also highlighting his politcal experience. He appears confident.

8:48	Brian R:  Ouch. Biden pulls the “I know where Russia is”.

8:49	Brian R:  Biden: Troops out of Iraq by 2010.

8:50	Mike S.:  Biden wants the troops out by summer 10? He believes that removeing troops will help center in on the real problems

8:51	Mike S.:  Palin states that lowering taxes will increase business and in turn increase the economy.

8:53	Brian R:  Palin: Pull out of Iraq by 2013, but it’s not certain. Pulling out will create a “wild west of terrorism”.

8:53	Mike S.:  Palin wants troops out at 2013?! Wow!

8:55	alexd:  Everyone is slowly entering into the press conference with lots to talk about from the rallies

8:56	Brian R:  The independant rally just ended. It was short and sweet. Both Biden and Palin did a good job arguing their points, but I would have liked to see a little more back and forth between the candidates. But overall it was effective, us fence-riders here got the information we wanted.

8:57	Lilly S:  Setting up camp for the debate.. cai’t wait to see what happens with four very strong willed people yearning for each indiviiduals vote. Will we see a heated argument or a down to earth discussion about each and every controversial topic?

8:58	alexd:  Obama and McCain look amped and ready to answer some serious questions

8:58	Josh:  This debate is starting to heat up with immediate confrontations between Obama and McCain supporters.

8:59	Josh:  Game faces, everyone…

9:00	Lilly S:  McCain still claiming he left his campaign trail to help out with the economic crisis…. are we sure it wasn’t just a publicity stunt?

9:01	alexd:  McCain starts by saying he left his campaign trail to go back to D.C. and help with the tax crisis

9:01	Antonio Viva:  Debate coverage is beginning, WA Mash is recording the debate and will be posting it shortly.

9:02	Antonio Viva:  Obama is claiming that Americans should not be responsible for paying for the mistakes of corporate CEOs and Wall Street.

9:03	Lilly S:  Obama claiming the middle class is the backbone of our nation… possible parallel to Andrew Jackson and his constant defense of the “Common Man.”

9:03	alexd:  Democrats go wild after Obama’s first response

9:03	Antonio Viva:  The audience continues to be emotional and loud, despite the moderators request to not engage in cheering and yelling.

9:04	Lilly S:  Obama wants to help Iraq stand on their own two feet. Seems to be a genuine interest in the good of the Iraq citizens

9:05	alexd:  McCain says the government in Iraq is not able to stand on its own.

9:05	Josh:  McCain really needs to speak louder. Volume is a huge factor in persuading the audience. If McCain speaks authoritatively, and loudly, he ought to captivate the attention of the crowd.

9:06	Josh:  McCain explains the “American responsibility”.

9:07	Lilly S:  Could the reason that Iraq is not able to “stand on his own,” claimed Obama, be because of our constant insurgence and presence? Could we perhaps use some… CHANGE?!

9:07	Lilly S:  *claimed by McCain

9:07	alexd:  agreed…we could use some Change!

9:08	What is the most important issue in this election? War in Iraq  ( 31% ) Economic Crisis  ( 63% ) Tax Policies  ( 0% ) Experience  ( 6% )

9:09	Lilly S:  If McCain truly believes that what Iraq needs is a democratic governemnt… why won’t he withdraw until 2013?

9:10	alexd:  The audience still not abiding by the request to remain silent throughout the debate

9:11	Josh:  Senator Obama is really working hard at trying to disprove statements made by Senator McCain… clever.

9:11	Lilly S:  Obama says negotiating is now a cowardly tactic.. spoken like a true Democrat

9:12	Antonio Viva:  Getting ready to upload photos!

9:12	alexd:  a brief arouse of laughter….?

9:12	Brian R:  I thoughtthe crowd was supposed to be quiet? I guess some people really want change…

9:14	alexd:  Obama thanking the secret service and FBI about the recent assassination attempt

9:15	Lilly S:  Agreed.. a usually quiet student body is now a boisterous group in the presence of the candidates

9:15	Lilly S:  Agreed.. a usually quiet student body is now a boisterous group with the presence of the candidates

9:15	alexd:  o boy…the global warming issue

9:16	Lilly S:  Huge topic that could sway the vote of many young American citizens..

9:18	alexd:  98%…..is that possible after we watched the video of “Stuff”?

9:18	Lilly S:  McCain is stressing the importance of the “American Future”

9:19	alexd:  It’s a shame we live in the present

9:20	alexd:  Obama saying take action now!….my point exactly

9:22	Lilly S:  Obama wants right for the gay community…and supports civil unions… but does not recognize marriage as a woman-woman/man-man partership

9:24	Lilly S:  Obama doesn’t want to “steal from the rich, and give to the poor” he just wants to “share the wealth”

9:24	alexd:  Obama gettting a round of applause for that answer which truly makes sense

9:25	Lilly S:  McCain wants to cut government spending.. and get rid of AMT. Claims it to be out of date

9:26	alexd:  Thats interesting considering he’s looking towards the future…double meaning?

9:27	alexd:  Oil?….uh oh

9:28	alexd:  An unruly student shouts ‘CHANGE’ after Obama’s response

9:29	Lilly S:  Obama would like to mandate healthcare for children.. ideal goal to have universial healthcare…

9:31	Lilly S:  McCains healthcare plans hopes to help out the lower class and those with pre-existing conditions..

9:32	Lilly S:  McCain claims Obamas plan could lead to government corruptions because it would be a government mandates

9:32	alexd:  McCain says Obama’s healthcare plan sky’s more than 100 billion dollars more than his…possilbe?

9:35	alexd:  1.3 Trillion to 1.6 Trillion….and the difference is?

9:35	Lilly S:  Obama would like to promote the idea of community service.

9:37	alexd:  Community service is a great thing, I mean community service is a huge part of WA.

9:38	Lilly S:  Education.Economics.War.Healthcare.Global Warming.Taxes. How is it possible to prioritize such a broad and significant list of issues?

9:40	Lilly S:  The idea of stability seems to be a common ground between the two candiates

9:40	alexd:  Once again McCain says, “In the long run”…

9:41

9:42

9:53	Antonio Viva:  Debate just ended. Students headed to first of two workshops. Stay tuned for more coverage.

10:01

Mike S.:  I thought the debate was very informative to the motives and beliefs of the candidates. It seemed as if they agreed on many of the topics.

10:17

alexd:  Sitting in K07 getting ready for Mr. Myhre and Mr. Horan’s workshop

10:18

Brian R:  Coach K’s workshop is about to begin the the Student Center. It looks like there might be about 50 students, and most of them are underclassmen. I would have thought that upperclassmen might have been more interested, as this is a workshop about investing and the economy. But it shows that the younger students are interested in their futures, which is a very good sign.

10:20

Mike S.:  Mr. Scott’s workshop on the War is about to start and will talk about how the presidents will deal with the war.

10:20

Alex M:  I am currently sitting in Mr. K’s workshop in the student center with Brian R and Josh L and as Brian said there are a significant number of kids in this workshop, maybe more like 75 kids

10:20

alexd:  Apparently the name of this workshop is “Change for the Better” or possibly in Pat Horan’s eyes…”Chance for the Other…..”

10:21

alexd:  We start by watching the “Yes We Can” youtube video we watched in class just a couple of weeks ago.

10:21

Mike S.:  We will watch the Dark Side a movie made before the war began. Ms. Gange will talk about terrorism.

10:21

Josh:  There are a lot of freshmen here… interesting.

10:22

Josh:  I was just notified that I am in the money workshop.

10:22

Alex M:  Mr. K and Mr. Elkins are running this workshop as Mr. K is now talking about the crisises that are occurring in today’s economy.

10:23

Alex M:  There is a guest speaker here from “Primerica?”

10:23

Lilly S:  Begining the workshop on Terrorism, War in Iraq, and Where to go from here led by Mr. Scott and Ms. Gagne in Walker Gallery. Starting with a movie concerning the issues associated with the wars in Iraq and Afganistan produced by Frontline PBS.

10:23

Josh:  Observation: Other than the bloggers, everyone in this workshop looks bored already. Brian, Alex–Do you agree?

10:23

Brian R:  Very much so

10:23

alexd:  Seeing this video again reminds me of MLK Jr.

10:25

Mike S.:  This movie begins by talking about 9/11 by describing what happened.

10:26

Josh:  Nice.

10:27

Alex M:  Briefly discussing today’s credit crunch

10:27

alexd:  Tucker and Pat have a powerpoint presentation that starts with economy, this workshop is very Obama opinionated.

10:28

Josh:  Mr. K introduces the guest speakers

10:28

Brian R:  Mr. K is reeling off ways that we can get in debt, but i get the feeling a lot of the kids in this room have no idea how some of these bank terms mean. Bank term loans, anticipated loans, federal returns, 401k’s. I’m noticing a lot of blank stares. Hopefully some of these things will be explained later by these two guests speakers we have here.

10:28

Josh:  Haha this guy from PrimeAmerica kind of reminds me of the Godfather.

10:29

Alex M:  Seems to be an entertaining guest speaker

10:29

Josh:  Definitely.

10:30

alexd:  Bino has brought up a strong point of how and where is Obama getting all of his money? He says there is not a big middle class saying giving them all of this money will bring about a big divide. He says we should not spend the money.

10:30

Lilly S:  Interesting perspective “from the dark side” (Dick Cheney’s view) regarding 9-11. Cheney claims to be the cheif architect concerning the war on terror.

10:30

Alex M:  I think he might have played in the Godfather

10:31

Josh:  The guest speaker will be addressing three main topics: 1) Investing or saving money 2) Getting out of debt 3) Protection and life insurace; also a little bit about entrepreneurialship and making money in a global perspective

10:31

Brian R:  The message: with little impact on lifestyle, hit age 60 with 2 million dollars.

10:33

Josh:  Stock mocket or housing crisis? Interesting question…

10:33

Josh:  *market. Excuse my english

10:33

Brian R:  I’m interested in staying until the end just to get my book called “making money for teens”. I want money, and I’m a teenager. Sounds good.

10:34

Josh:  Haha I just noticed I typed the word “market” according to the way the guest speaker pronounced it. Hilarious.

10:34

alexd:  Another point is brought up of how everyone starts at some point and is born into their wealth. We are not saying poor people do not work hard and we are not saying wealthy people hardly work.

10:34

Alex M:  Housing crisis originated in 1999

10:36

Mike S.:  Mr. Scott is remembering what is was like when the attacks happened. He believed that they shouldn’t have bombed Iraq, but someone he knew said that they should.

10:36

Alex M:  Greed was a major issue in the mortgage industry because people would buy mortgage that they could not afford and the mortgage companies sold them the mortgages anyways.

10:37

Josh:  Mortgage companies were more interested in making profit rather than the interests of the people.

10:37

Mike S.:  People in the workshop believe that more invesigation should have been done before action was taken

10:38

Alex M:  Once mortgages started to default the banks had to put assets aside, which led to banks stopping lending.

10:38

alexd:  Is it possible that everyone can start at the same point? Obama’s Zero-Five program puts children in pre-schools so they can start education at the same time giving them the same opportunity.

10:38

Lilly S:  Discussion on what steps American should have taken directly after 9/11. How do we get from 9/11 to the war in Iraq? How will these issues affect todays election and how can that sway a citizens vote?

10:39

Josh:  ”Good, strong American companies will always come back.”

10:39

Mike S.:  Ms. Gagne will now begin to talk about terrorism.

10:40

alexd:  Obama wants to start the “New Era of Accountability”

10:41

Josh:  This guy is a comedian, huh?

10:41

Mike S.:  She will show a powerpoint on terrorism. She took a class on terrorsm in college.

10:41

alexd:  All of Obama’s goals are great ideas but his goals are “lofty.” Either way McCain or Obama are going to spend a ton of money but in different places.

10:42

Alex M:  Yeah, like I said he’s an entertainer.

10:43

Josh:  Now that I think of it, I don’t know that teenagers making more money is such a good idea. Think about it. Are teenagers the wisest spenders? Teaching them how to make more money would only make things worse.

10:44

[Comment From Conar] The workshop on terrorism is pretty interesting I would recommend stopping by.

10:44

Alex M:  Now talking about mutual funds, which take all the guess work out of investing.

10:44

Mike S.:  Ms. Gagne went around the room and asked people “what they thought terrorism was?”

10:44

10:44

alexd:  All of the views in this workshop are male dominated…the females have yet to speak their opinion.

10:46

Alex M:  I am not sure if I agree Josh because I think that if teens are given more of an oppurtunity to manage money then they will be better prepared in the future when it becomes more important.

10:47

Lilly S:  What is the face of terrorism? What do we associate with terrorism? Terrrism is a label. The media blurrs the idea of terrorism, creates confusion, chaos, and worry.

10:47

Brian R:  Teenagers are young enough to be in the market long enough to invest, and get out of this crisis on top. If we start investing 25 or 50 dollars a month somewhere, then that will add up, since we are so young. I would hope that his whole point is to put money away that won’t be spent until later (until we are smarter spenders). Saving money would let us be 40 or 45 years old reaching economic goals that most people have to wait until their 60s to achieve. Teenagers should invest in mutual funds early.

10:50

[Comment From Conar M] I agree with Lily. Its a scare tactic. So many people associated terrorism and Arabic Countries. No one really looks at it the way Ms. Gagne just described it. No one really thinks about enviromental terrorist groups.

10:50

10:50

alexd:  Venezuela supplies the U.S. more fuel than any other country….another idea is to have over 1 million plug in hybrid cars by the year 2015.

10:51

Josh:  Ms. Gagne explains the four types of terrorism

10:53

alexd:  However, Obama wants to eliminate our current imports from the Middle East and Venezuela within ten years.

10:53

Lilly S:  Four main types of terrorism. Criminal, political, ethnic, and religious. Criminal, political, and ethnic are secular. They kill to get what they want. Religious terrorists kill in order to make their point. Religious terrorism is never ending and poses an unending threat.

10:54

Alex M:  This guest speaker has good ethics as he is now telling us to create good habits now and start now.

10:55

alexd:  Another goal from Obama…Ensure 10% of our Electricity comes from Renewable Sources by 2012, and 25% by 2025.

10:56

Josh:  Interesting observation: Early today the polls represented that the most important issue in this election is the War in Iraq. The tally was 66% to 34%. The polls now show 50-50.

10:57

alexd:  It’s incredible how people’s views change after they hear the facts and not just go by assumptions.

10:59

Lilly S:  Structure of terrorist groups. Command, Active Cadre, Active supporters, passive supporters.

10:59

Josh:  Agreed. This terrorism workshop is doing one of two things: 1) Increasing the worry of terrorism. or 2) Decreasing the worry of terrorism.

11:00

11:00

alexd:  Energy and Environment is a huge part of Obama’s campaign. How about a windmill on WA’s campus where the hospital was?

11:00

Brian R:  This is a deadly combination. Freshman, mortgages, and comfortable couches.

11:00

Lilly S:  Common problems that plague terrorism are Communication whithin an infastructure of secrecy coordinating activities despite decentralization maintaining internal discipline avoiding fragmented ideologies maintaining logistics training financing

11:01

Josh:  This workshop is very interesting. It informs the students of what terrorism really is, and how it works. It increases the awareness of terrorism, as well as addressing common problems terrorist groups cause.

11:01

Josh:  Interesting fact: with the exception of Al Qaeda, most terrorist groups are composed of 50 or fewer members.

11:04

Josh:  Weapons of mass destruction? “Nukes”, replies one of the students.

11:06

Josh:  Unnoticed, yet equally destructive weapons of mass destruction: chemical and biological

11:07

alexd:  A quote from Obama, “We must be as careful getting out of Iraq, as we were careless going in.”

11:08

Brian R:  The workshop in the student center on the economy was mostly confusing. There were a lot of terms that were not explained, and remain a mystery to many of the people here. There were a lot of Case A vs. Case B, Mortgage 1 vs Mortgage 2, and Bob’s interest rate vs Mike’s interest rate. But the main point was clear. Invest, trust in the economy, and make plenty of money.

11:09

Alex M:  Life Insurance is created to protect in case one dies. People make three mistakes when buying life insurance: buy wrong kind, depend on wrong kind, or just do not buy life insurance.

11:10

Who do you think will be most affected by the next President? Adults  ( 67% ) The Elderly  ( 0% ) Children  ( 0% ) Teenagers  ( 33% )

11:11

What percentage of the vote will she carry tonight? less than 20  ( 0% ) 21 – 39  ( 0% ) 40 – 49  ( 0% ) 50 – 59  ( 0% ) 60 or more  ( 0% )

11:11

alexd:  A point of as bad as Saddam was, Iraq was better with him because as soon as we (the U.S.) leave the Sunni’s and the Shiites are just going to go back to civil war. When Saddam was in power the citizens were too afraid to do anything.

11:12

Brian R:  My bad i was checking out the sample polls. Ignore that last poll.

11:13

In the long run, who do you think will be most affected by the next President? Adults  ( 7% ) The Elderly  ( 0% ) Children  ( 0% ) Teenagers  ( 43% ) Everyone wil be equally affected.  ( 50% )

11:13

Mike S.:  Mr. Scott is talking about what locations were attacked on 9/11 and why they are important. All the buildings attacked have to do with defence and economy.

11:15

Who’s plan in the War in Iraq is better? Obama  ( 50% ) Mccain  ( 50% )

11:15

alexd:  The Change workshop is having a heated debate about why we are in iraq and why we should or shouldn’t leave….Mr. Scott?

11:16

Who’s plan in the War in Iraq is better? Obama  ( 64% ) Mccain  ( 36% )

11:16

Brian R:  The economy workshop is starting to lose the interest of the students.

11:17

Alex M:  Four ways to legally make money; to have a job, to be self-employed, start a business, invest the money.

11:17

11:19

[Comment From Leibo] This is noiyce

11:20

11:20

alexd:  The Obama-Biden health care plan provides an affordable, accessible health care for all Americans, builds on the existing health care system, and uses existing providers, doctors and plans to implement the plan.

11:20

Mike S.:  The second video Mr. Scott wanted to show didn’t show up. Now he’s summerizing it.

11:22

Mike S.:  Why didn’t we kill Osama? Good question

11:22

11:24

Antonio Viva:  WA Mash live coverage of the Presidential Election Festival will continue throughout the afternoon and evening! Coming up next, coverage of voting, second round of workshops and closing ceremony and electoral college coverage! Stay tuned!

11:24

Brian R:  Mr. Delaney: “what is the richest country in the world? I thought it was Ireland. Because the economy is always dublin.” Oh Mr. Delaney…

11:25

11:26

alexd:  Wow….Mr. Delaney…

11:29

Antonio Viva:  www.salon.com/news/feature/2008/11/04/polls/

11:33

Antonio Viva:  ALL JUNIORS, SENIORS and POST GRADS SHOULD REPORT TO THEIR ADVISORY LOCATIONS FOR VOTING! NINTH AND TENTH GRADERS SHOULD GO TO LUNCH.

11:38

Will most Americans be able to get behind the new President regardless of their ideologies? Yes, I will give the new President a fair chance  ( 0% ) No, if Obama wins, I will still remain bitter  ( 100% ) No, if McCain wins I will still remain bitter  ( 0% ) Yes, I plan to vote for a third party candidate  ( 0% ) No, I plan to vote for a third party candidate  ( 0% )

11:57

Alex M:  Mr. Himottu’s advisory split the voting between Obama and McCain 50-50

11:57

Brian R:  I’m sitting at a lunch table right now, and it’s interesting to see that a couple students at the table are discussing policies. The topic is whether or not the economic policies regarding foreclosures put in place during the Clinton administration have lingering effects on today’s economy. It shows how engaged kids are when they are continuing the political discussions during break times.

12:00

Antonio Viva:  Voting is beginning throughout campus. Advisory groups are serving as polling locations, each advisory will then be divided up to accurately represent each state and then provide the corresponding electoral votes.

12:04

Antonio Viva:  Preliminary voting from Mr. Viva’s advisory is leaning heavily toward Obama/Biden.

12:10

Antonio Viva:  WA Middle School Aladdin: aladdinol.wordpress.com/

12:21

12:51

Antonio Viva:  Lunch and Voting have ended. Afternoon workshops about to begin!

12:51

alexd:  The classroom I was in for voting was 14 votes for Obama and 2 for McCain.

12:53

Josh:  My state was a Republican state. 6-5, McCain

12:53

Josh:  Mr. Bill looks ready to go.

12:53

Brian R:  I’m up in the balcony of Warner getting ready for Dr. Murnane and Mr. Baillie’s presentation on Obama and the issue of race in America. Dr. Murnane and Mr. Baillie are well known for their excellence in teaching and their presentation skills. And it’s a good thing, because race in America is a difficult subject to cover. They should be able to handle it effectively. Looking forward to it.

12:53

Mike S.:  My state voted for Obama

12:54

alexd:  Currently in Dr. Okur’s workshop that is just beginning with thirteen people.

12:54

Alex M:  I am now in Ms. Kastler’s room and we are reading an article where the leaders will then ask us trivia questions about the article.

12:55

Mike S.:  Mr. Baker is talking about the Supreme Count and how it effects the election.

12:55

Josh:  Mr. Bill begins by introducing the theme of the workshop: globalization. He explains what we’re going to be reviewing, and explains how he messed up his advisory’s poster.

12:57

alexd:  Three very impressive and good looking press people have just entered the classroom and are about to ask Dr. Okur a question or series of questions.

12:57

Brian R:  Warner with a powerful audio by Malcolm X on the travesties of the white population, supported by visuals of segregation, abuse, and a burning flag.

12:57

Josh:  We’re going to be creating a “video letter” to the next President on our suggestions. We will take knowledge that we will learn in today’s workshop, and apply it to our suggestions in how we think we can fix the issue of, “the world is flat.”

12:59

Mike S.:  Mr. Baker talks about a Boston Globe editorial about the elecion and different topics, for example race in the school.

12:59

Josh:  We begin by watching a short clip by Thomas Friedman, author of “The World is Flat”.

12:59

alexd:  Dr. Okur’s is bringing about the idea of diversion

12:59

Which candidate, Obama or McCain is more likely to increase our border security? Barack Obama  ( 38% ) John McCain  ( 62% )

1:01	Mike S.:  Mr. Baker s discussing the court system.

1:02

Alex M:  The article is very interesting in that it discusses that the state that is most important in today’s election will be Colorado because if McCain is able to collect all the electoral votes that President Bush had in his previous campaign and Obama was to collect all of the electoral votes that Al Gore collected in that same campaign Colorado would be the definitive factor. Howeverm, if either candidate were to have won the state of Colorado, it obviously does not mean that they have won the entire election

1:03	Josh:  We’re going to be creating a “video letter” to the next President on our suggestions. We will take knowledge that we will learn in today’s workshop, and apply it to our suggestions in how we think we can fix the issue of, “the world is flat”.

1:03	Alex M:  The leaders consist of Ubo, K.C., Corvann, and Travis and they were just asking us the questions based on the article we just read entitled: “What’s the Top Electoral College State this Year?”

1:04	alexd:  Just entered into a workshop being constructed by Mr. Kumin, Mr. Gordeau and Mr. Leavitt…

1:06

Brian R:  Warner is watching a powerful video on black rights in america, highlighting Malcolm X and Louis Armstrong. Malcolm X had an audio on the travesties of white men throughout history, then Armstrong is pictured as playing his music alongside white men, breaking through the color barrier with his musical talents, and standing against the segregation in Little Rock, Arkansas. I anticipate that all of this will connect with Obama’s pursuit of the first black presidency. It will hopefully put this important moment in time in historical perspective.

1:07	Mike S.:  Mr Baker is talking about desegregtion and how it effected everyday life like taking the train.

1:08	Josh:  Mr. Bill shows a graph that displays the relationship between oil prices and freedom. As the price of oil goes down, the freedom of the people goes up, and vice versa. They are inversely related to each other. This explains the idea of a petrodictatorship.

1:08	alexd:  We are talking about the electoral college and why each state has as many votes as they do….for example why Rhode Island has less electoral college votes than a state larger than RI such as Texas or California.

1:10	Josh:  We’re getting into the fundamentals of the oil industry. It’s being very well explained by both Mr. Dow and Mr. Bill.

1:11	Lilly S:  In Warner we are discovering how race plays a role into the the presidential race and how historical figures like Louis Armstrong and Malcom X have help shape racial issues.

1:11

1:11	Josh:  We now get into communism and dictatorships, both the causes and effects.

1:12	Alex M:  Now they are showing us a youtube video based on Electoral College states in an entertaining fashion as the video is a cartoon with a narrator talking about the campaign between Al Gore and President Bush.

1:12	Mike S.:  Mr. Baker is giving the miranda rights from the case against Arizonia in 1966.

1:14	Alex M:  A candidate can have the more popular vote, but that does not mean that they have won because the candidate with most electoral votes ultimately prevails.

1:14

1:14	alexd:  Do our votes really count?

1:14	Brian R:  Essential Questions in Warner: 1) Is this election a turning point in terms of race? 2) Is it more of the same? 3) Has Obama transended race? 4) Is he carefully playing a role between a black and a white america?

1:15	Lilly S:  Is this election a turning point regarding race in American history? Obama might be caughing playing a role between a Black vs. White America

1:15

1:16	Alex M:  Senators’ vote is based the popular candidate within the state.

1:16	Mike S.:  Now Mr. Baker is talking about the rights of the students. He is talking about a bunch of court cases put in front of the Supreme Court

1:17	[Comment From conarm] 5 green party supporters

1:17	Alex M:  Now we are watching a School House of Rock video based on the same topic.

1:17

Josh:  Mr. Bill displays his wonderful artistic abilities in drawing a diagram. The picture is a comparison between the United States and Africa in 1950, as it relates to libraries and gaining information. He explains the drastic difference between the method by which the two nations receive their information.

1:19

Josh:  Mr. Bill displays his wonderful artistic abilities in drawing a diagram on the board. The picture is a comparison of the United States and Africa in 1950. It shows the drastic difference between the method by which the two nations gather information. We will now watch a few clips that basically reiterate a lot of what he just spoke about.

1:19

Josh:  Mr. Bill displays his wonderful artistic abilities in drawing a diagram on the board. The picture is a comparison of the United States and Africa in 1950. It shows the drastic difference between the method by which the two nations gather information. We will now watch a few clips that basically reiterate a lot of what he just spoke about.

1:21	Mike S.:  Now we are looking at the gay rights trail between Lawrence and Texas in 2003. It was never put in front of Supreme Court.

1:22	Mike S.:  Now we’re looking at abortion.

1:25	alexd:  Terrorism is hard to define because the word is emotionally charged, socially defined and has historical circumstances.

1:25	alexd:  One man’s terrorist is another man’s freedom fighter.

1:25

Josh:  Mr. Bill displays his wonderful artistic abilities in drawing a diagram on the board. The picture is a comparison of the United States and Africa in 1950. It shows the drastic difference between the method by which the two nations gather information. We will now watch a few clips that basically reiterate a lot of what he just spoke about.

1:27	Josh:  Ready for this statement… “Green is the next red, white and blue”–a statement made in a YouTube clip we just finished watching.

1:28	alexd:  Four types of terrorism: 1. Criminal 2. Political 3. Ethnic 4. Religous

1:29	Mike S.:  Now we’re looking at the Bush v. Gore in the election of 2000. They brought it to the Supreme Court and they ruled in favor of Bush. Remember, Gore won the popular vote.

1:29

1:30	Brian R:  I’ve moved to Bobby Gourdeau’s workshop. He’s discussing Obama’s policy of taxing big companies, and how that will trickle down to hurt the middle class.

1:31	Josh:  The focus of the discussion now turns to the “Green Revolution,” the “IT Revolution,” and similar movements. He discusses how these ideas and movements began, and how it relates to the individual actions, not big corporations and laboratories.

1:31

1:32	Brian R:  Bobby: “Obama supposedly was born in Hawaii”

1:32	Mike S.:  A powerpoint presentation is now explaining to us the current members of the Court.

1:33	Josh:  One of the students in the workshop, Dave Margolies, expresses his opinion about the oil industry. He explains the supply and demand of oil in America, and how it is an omnipresent issue.

1:34	Josh:  Mr. Dow adds in his comments about the economy, and the supposed mindframe of an average CEO.

1:35	Alex M:  Now we are currently doing an activity where we choose a state and pick which party will win that state and the website is basically an electoral calculator as Obama is currently in the lead. The leaders are calling up volunteers to pick a state and then choose a winner of the state.

1:38

Brian R:  We are currently trying to guess which states will go democratic and which will go republican. Unfortunately none of us know most of these states political affiliations, so they are all just guesses. Some people actual yelled republican for Massachusetts. We are doing a mock electoral college, but i don’t think it will be very accurate.

1:40	Mike S.:  Mr. Baker is showing us a video on Supreme Court member Clarence Thomas.

1:42	Mike S.:  The video had troble loading so he’ll wait to show us the video. In the mean time, Ms. Wales is showing us a powerpoint on the approaches of the president.

1:45	Alex M:  Obama wins mainly because Obama won almost every state with the most electoral votes. When we looked at the actual map of CNN’s that shows who won what state the class was pretty accurate as to which states either candidate won or are leaning towards.

1:48	Mike S.:  Ms. Wales is breaking down both the president and vice president’s views on how they will appoach the Court.

1:49

Lilly S:  Discussing Obama/Biden Foreign policy. They promise to secure loose nuclear materials from terrorists, renew American diplomacy, and to direct diplomacy to end the threat from Iran. Students concerned about empty promises being made. How is it possible to promise to much in four years? Is it possible for him to flip the country overnight?

1:51

1:52

Josh:  I now switched gears to being in the workshop being conducted in the pit. I walked in on a conversation between Ms. Schlesinger and the students about mortgages. She discusses the difference between a fixed-rate, and an adjustable-rate mortgage. There is a questionnaire the students filled out at the beginning of the workshop, a questionnaire they are now reviewing.

1:53

1:53	Mike S.:  The video is working!

1:56	Mike S.:  The video talks about the start of Thomas’ carrer as a Supreme Court member and how he was attacked my the media and a fellow worker.

1:57	Lilly S:  How can we safely withdraw from Iraq without causing disarray and chaos while at the same time ensuring America’s saftey. The US governement needs to help establish a stable government before we can pull out

2:02	alexd:  Students are now excitedly reporting back to the new gym where they will find out the election results and have an end to such an exciting day!

2:05	Alex M:  Testing the internet connection ignore this blog

2:10	What was the best part of the events today? Keynote Address  ( 0% ) Rallies  ( 100% ) Debate  ( 0% ) Workshops  ( 0% ) Closing Ceremony/Results  ( 0% ) Nothing  ( 0% )

2:16	Antonio Viva:  testing connection…..

2:17	alexd:  Surprising how Sarah Palin’s own state goes against her…

2:21	Antonio Viva:  Rowdy electoral college. Map is looking mostly blue at this time. Very cool CNN application allowing us to fill in states as they report out.

2:22

2:24

2:24	Antonio Viva:  Current electoral count: Obama 185 McCain 36

2:25

JackH:  The workshop taught by Mr. Roberts was about television advertisements made by candidates for their campaign. It was interesting because different ads were presented to the class that showed multiple nominees trying to persuade people vote for them. They tried to use a variety of approaches to try to catch the attention of people across the U.S. The ads were usually aimed against their opponent similar to what we have seen throughout our current election. It really shows what any candidate will say about another to get elected in office. Numerous ads discuss issues that they would handle and the mistakes that their opponents made. Various advertisements illustrated how the candidate’s opposition changed their minds on issues by showing different clips of the opponent. Also, the use of statistics was another way of attacking an opponent, but was sometimes not true. Even though ads by different candidates might have been attacking the opposition and was false, it was still a useful way to influence people to vote for them.

2:29	Antonio Viva:  Current electoral count: Obama 301 McCain 54

2:30	Antonio Viva:  Chants break out in the gym “It’s all over. It’s all over!”

2:31

2:32	Lilly S:  Obama dominating the electoral college vote with 363 to 69

2:32

2:33	alexd:  yea……..its over

2:34	Mike S.:  I wonder who’s going to win

2:34	Antonio Viva:  Crowd begins to subdue as the reality of the day sinks in. Worcester Academy has elected Barack Obama its 44th President.

2:36	alexd:  The future of the U.S.=CHANGE

2:36	JackH:  I have never seen the students more exited and interested during an assembly. This was a great idea.

2:39

2:40	Antonio Viva:  The final state break out.

2:40	Antonio Viva:  Special thanks goes out to Mr. Bill, Ms. Kastler, Ms. Ahalt, Mrs. Fox, Mrs. Schlesinger, Ms. Shusas, Mr. K. and many others!!

3:19	Antonio Viva:  Nice work WA Mash Bloggers!

3:19

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WA Students Participated in a poll prior to the Election Day Festival. View the results of those polls here. Thanks to Ms. O’Garr and her Honors Statistics students for compiling the results.

Photo Credit: Ms. Kathleen

Popularity: 13% [?]

Same Sex Marriage

Thursday, October 16th, 2008
by emma.phillips

Same sex marriage has been legalized in Massachusetts, California, and recently Connecticut.  Vermont and New Hampshire recognize Civil Unions between same sex couples.  Despite this movement more than half of all the people in the United States oppose homosexual marriage.  Same sex couples remain as partners, living as if they are in fact married, in states that have not legalized same sex marriages. In some states there is are amendments that specify that marriage can only be defined as between a woman and a man. Because of this definition there have been request to appeal the amendment. The decision to marry should not be the government’s decision, but instead should be the decision for the couple. Marriage is a human right and a personal choice, which should be given to everyone.

Same sex partners are denied many legal and practical rights that married couples enjoy. Partners can not file joint tax returns or get family or marriage exemptions.  They can not inherit the estate of their partner in the absence of a will. They also cannot leave work to take care of a child or partner.  In addition they are not able to share benefits from Social Security, Medicare, or other government programs. There can be no joint legal parenting decisions and they can not obtain death benefits for their partner.

Society has recognized that granting civil rights to a minority group may offend some. The constitutional government was established to ensure that minority groups are protected and their voices heard.  Marriage is said to be a joining of a man and a woman, but in the Declaration of Independence there is a quote of “Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” If a same sex couple would like to be married then they should be able to pursue it until they reach their goal and this goal should not be denied because of governmental decisions.

Religions, in combination with their churches and temples should decide if they should allow same sex marriage. The United Church of Christ voted to allow Churches to perform same sex marriage ceremonies.  Each Church is then able decide by a vote of its congregation if it is to be an open and affirming Church. There is one line in Romans 1.26-1.27 that says “Their women exchanged natural intercourse for unnatural, and in the same way also the men, giving up natural intercourse with women, were consumed with passion for one another” (The Access Bible, Oxford, pg. 224). The sin of homosexuality comes from this passage in the bible. Yet, the bible has been rewritten many times and the meaning of many passages has been changed.

The impact of foreign legalization of same sex marriage has greatly impacted the United States, especially legalization in Canada. There is no need for residency or citizenship requirement for a marriage certificate in Canada. At least forty-one states have statutes or constitutions prohibiting same sex marriage, while twenty-seven states have marriage defined in their constitutions.

Some argue that homosexual marriages deprive children of either a mother or a father. Yet, children who live with a single parent are often deprived of a mother or a father.  It is also said that a primary reason why people get married is to have children. So the question must be asked, are marriages not allowed to people who are infertile or to couples who decide that they do not want children?

The two major candidates for the next presidency, John McCain and Barack Obama, both agree that same sex marriage should be legalized and are against the amendment proclaiming that marriage is only between a man and a woman. The government complicates the issues surrounding same sex marriage in the United States. Homosexual couples are asking for the same benefits and protections that heterosexual couples receive when they get married.

Everyone should be able to make their own decision with regards to their choice of marriage. Same sex marriage should be legalized so that same sex couples in every state can have the option of marriage is they choose. Homosexuals should have the same benefits and protections as heterosexuals. Marriage is a human right and a choice for the couple and should not be dictated by either the government or the state. Same sex marriage should be allowed in the United States.

Photo: CarbonNYC

Photo: ehoyer

Popularity: 7% [?]

Sarah Palin and SNL: The Fey Factor

Sunday, October 12th, 2008
by Brian R

John McCain made a bold decision in selecting Alaska governor Sarah Palin as his running mate. He and his political advisors must have spent countless hours running through the advantages and disadvantages of taking Palin on as their vice presidential candidate. She’s inexperienced, but some would argue so is Obama. She’s an effective public speaker who knows how to connect with an audience, but some would argue so is Obama. She’s not a white male, but I certainly argue neither is Obama. The pros and cons of Palin’s candidacy go on and on. But through all the political maneuvering and strategizing by the McCain campaign, one major problem developed that no one could have foreseen: Tina Fey. For those who don’t know, Saturday Night Live has done multiple spoofs on the run for the white house. And their best skits by far have been about Sarah Palin. Why are they so funny? Here’s why:

Long time SNL super star Tina Fey (right) looks EXACTLY like Sarah Palin (left). If you have not seen the videos yet, watch them right now. I’m serious. There are three of them so far: the first involving Fey and the very bitter Hillary Clinton played by Amy Poehler, the second being an interview between Palin and Katie Couric (also Poehler), and the third poking fun at the Vice Presidential debate. All three are hilarious, and all three accomplish the important task of making the republican candidate for vice president look like an absolute dope.

Anyone who has seen the SNL skits now has trouble taking Palin seriously. During the vice presidential debate, a few tough questions came up, and all I could think of was “wow, she really does get increasingly more adorable when she’s backed into a corner”. And every time foreign affairs came up I couldn’t help but think of her kicking Russians out of her front yard as her civic duty. I ended up laughing at some of her more serious answers. The sad part is SNL did not stray very far from the truth. They obviously added a few well scripted jokes, but most of Fey’s tip-toeing responses to tough questions closely resembled those of Palin’s actual responses. Unfortunately for Palin, she didn’t have the option of phoning a friend. Maybe she would have called Hillary for some help?

Sarah Palin is a well educated woman, and a very successful politician. She was qualified enough to become chair of the Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, and then qualified enough to become the governor of our largest state. She’s now one health condition away from becoming president of the United States of America. But is she qualified? Sure she can wink at the camera now, connect with the regular people, and assure us of the fact she’s just like one of us. But what about during the upcoming depression? What about when terrorists threaten our national security again? She can’t wink at the camera then. What about when new conflicts with rival countries arise? I’m not sure some of these ruthless dictators would be too receptive of her winking and small town lingo. “Well hey there Mr. Jong-il, can I call you Kim?” She’s just like one of us. But I’m not convinced I want just “one of us” running the country. The president of the United States is the leader of the free world, and he or she needs to be someone whose prepared to take on and effectively handle the pressures that come along with the position. Sarah Palin just isn’t ready for it.

Tina Fey took Palin’s flaws and twisted them, exaggerated them, and broadcast them to the entire country. Like it or not, her image has been effected by the skits. It was meant to serve simply as entertainment, but it turned into unintentional propoganda of sorts. It may not be fair. But hey, who ever said media was fair? Look at FOX news.

I leave you with a little joke they used to tell back in my hometown: “what’s the difference between a hockey mom and a president?” Everything.

Popularity: 9% [?]

Military Positions for Women

Friday, October 10th, 2008
by emma.phillips

There are a few positions that have recently opened to women in the military, yet there are still positions that do not allow women. Women know the risks of being in the military; they should be able to make their own decisions if they are able to work the position. Women should be able to freely choose their work, and not be unaccepted for a position because of their gender. If women are qualified for combat position, they should be able to take part in that capacity.

Women have become a significant part of the work force, performing in all civilian jobs. When women volunteer for the military they know the risk involved with choosing this career path. Whether they are a male or female soldier, they know the risk involved in choosing a military career path and are making an informed decision on their choice of profession. The role of women serving in military positions has greatly increased, and with it has come the increase in the risk and danger level associated with all who serve. If women are placed in combat zones they might be killed, but so may the men who are serving in that area. Instead of women being focused in the areas of nurses and factory workers, they now fly aircraft, and guard prisoners, and are found nearly everywhere in the modern military. However, women are restricted from working in combat jobs, and joining infantry units or Special Forces. Policies adopted by the army further restrict the role of women in the military. The military police force was recently opened to women and this is a job where they could come in contact with enemy ambushes. Demands to protect women often end up prohibiting women from what they have a right to do.

There are reports from Iraq that women are requesting to be transferred to combat units near the front line, but are not able to because of Army policy. There is no law that limits the jobs of women in the Army, but Army policy exclude women from positions that may place them in positions of direct contact. However, there are laws that prohibit the permanent assignment of women on-board ships or planes engaged in combat missions.

America strongly supports women’s participation in the military. In a 1990 poll 79 percent of people who responded agreed that women should be allowed to serve in combat units.  In addition, to this support, it is inevitable that some day in the near future, a woman will be the Commander in Chief of the military services. As seen by the campaigns of Hillary Clinton and Sarah Palin. More and more women are working in high-powered positions within our government, and it only makes sense that if women are not excluded from the opportunity of working in every area of our government, they should not be excluded from working in every area of the military.

Due to combat exclusion about 1.1 million of the 2.2 million military jobs are closed to women. In addition, other jobs not specified by the combat exclusion were not available to women due to policy. Over 200,000 women serve in coast guard, air force, Marine Corps, Army and Navy.

Some critics state political, religious, physical and ethical reasons for not allowing women in direct combat situation. There is a concern that women should not be positioned on the front line due to their lack of physical strength. The military has a strong and effective training program that allows women to become physically fit. Others ask if it is a good idea to send future mothers out to war, but is it right to send future fathers out to war also? Both genders know the risk of the profession they choose and if they know the risks and are qualified for the position then they should be able to participate.

Women have been and are a great importance to the military. Yet as much as women would like to work in combat zones they are unable to because of current military policy. Men know the risks of working in these areas like that and so do the women who volunteer for the service. Because of their knowledge they should be able to work with artillery and in combat zones. The policies should be abolished and women should be able to work where they want to.

Photo Credit: Army.mil

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