Boom Boom Pow!

If you didn't know, that's a Black Eyed Peas' song - it's quite catchy, but annoying.

The "Boom Boom Pow" idea is referring to the terrorists' attempted attack to hijack another U.S. plane this past holiday weekend. I'm not going to talk about the details, as you can go and read the articles (and I don't want to bore you), but it's all just really annoying. Now the holiday travelers have to deal with more security lines and waiting. I've got to admit, I do think that President Obama is a bit at fault, as biased as I may be. Honestly, the whole idea of not fighting and simply maintaining peace by having discussions and talks is idiotic to say the least. War is necessary. Armies are necessary. Fighting is necessary, when all else fails. These terrorists won't get the message until we give them a piece of their own medicine and more. The only way to shut them down is to take them out, as barbaric as that sounds. Let's stop pretending to be nice and just do what needs to be done - which is not having any more useless meetings.

Terrorists. want. to. kill. us. NOT make. peace.
Just saying.

By the way, this New Year's - stay safe! Watch out for those crazy drunk drivers and partygoers!

Happy Holidays

photo cred: mookayaya

Happy Holidays, readers!

I hope you all got a chance to relax, recuperate, re-energize, eat food, and enjoy some good quality time with your friends&family!

I'll have another blog post up soon - probably tomorrow. Until then, eat fruit, eat cake, and enjoy these last few days of 2009.

Stay safe,

Ashtyn


P.S. Here's an amusing picture of my sisters and myself!

Slavery is Not Dead

I was scanning links on Drudge Report and came by a shorty article about 225,000 children being forced into slavery in Haiti because of the extreme impoverished circumstances. It disgusts me that children, particularly in third world countries, are being forced into a variety of slavery - from labor to sex slave-trading.

I remember at school for the past couple of years, we have fund-raised for organizations that help children, especially young girls, rise out of poverty and being freed from slavery. There are so many perverted people involved in the illegal sex-slave-trade of children. It makes me want to gag just thinking about situations like this - parents having to sell their own children into slavery, knowing that these little kids will become sex slaves. The fact that these situations have become so dire and drastic that families are forced to resort to these measures is also depressing.

On a side note, President Obama has openly stated that he will remain in Washington D.C. until the Health Care Bill is passed. He claims that he cannot leave the Senate while in the midst of a such a big transition. Well, thank you President Obama, for acting like a President - that is what you are, right? I wouldn't be surprised if you would have left early to go to Hawaii to spend the holidays there in a $4000/night resort; you would never spend that much money on a vacation home though, right? Right. We expect you to stay in D.C. until these critical matters regarding the Health Care Bill are dealt with, Mr. president. Don't think that you're doing something noble; these kinds of actions come with the territory of being the President of the United States.

Just saying.

Happy Holidays

Three more days until Christmas! For those of you who don't celebrate Christmas, I'm sorry if I offend you.
"
Actually, I'm not. I wouldn't be offended if someone said "Happy Hannukah" or "Happy Kwanzaa." It's kind of annoying that stores are discouraged from saying "Merry Christmas" or anything like that because it offends people who aren't Christian (or anyone who just doesn't celebrate Christmas). I have many atheist and agnostic friends who say "Merry Christmas!" though they don't necessarily believe in God or anything of the sort. People these days just make a big deal out of nothing. Just like the issue with the Pledge of Allegiance and how there is the phrase "one nation, under God" - thus, people are offended because they're not Christian/God-believers. I remember in elementary school, every morning, we'd all look at the flag, put our right hands over our hearts, and repeat the Pledge of Allegiance. Now, my 5-year-old sister will probably not learn it unless my family teaches it to her at home, just because someone made a mountain out of a molehill (I love the phrase).

Next thing you know, we're going to have to reprint all the one dollar bills because they say "In God We Trust." Bah! Hopefully, it won't come to that. Honestly, people just need to get over themselves. If it bothers you, ignore it; move on with your lives. Don't ruin the holidays for everyone else. Even several holiday songs include the phrase "Merry Christmas" or the lyrics pertain to God/Christ, etc. If a person doesn't like these songs, they only have to switch the FM radio station to another channel.

Anyways, if you ever see me during the holiday season, you can bet I'm going to wish you a Merry Christmas!

Copenhagen. Change.

Those two words both start with C!
Quite observant, no?

The leaders at the meeting in Copenhagen have decided upon many changes to fight global warming. Yet Sarah Palin disagrees that these changes will do much good.

I must say I concur. Global warming is a factor in our lives and will affect future generations even more than it affects us now. We should do the little things like conserving energy, carpooling, conserving water, recycling, etc., but there's only so much we can do. To have such large international meetings to discuss this matter and then initiate policies in the world isn't going to do much good if the people themselves don't want to change. Like a certain old man tells me, "You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make it drink." The government can push us to conserve more or plant more trees, but unless we get 100% participation, global warming won't go away. Perhaps we should continue focusing on how we will deal with the potential climate change effects when those consequences come into play in the future. We know, deep inside, that these consequences could happen. If we do start to see even more earthquakes, hurricanes, storms, etc., then how will we deal with that? Maybe we should have detailed emergency plans for every state, every city. I don't know, but I don't really see the great benefits of having meetings and talking about what we will do, then forcing the people to abide by the new policies. There are always loopholes. But more importantly, somehow the people need to be more motivated to change!

Personally, I don't think the world's going to end or that global warming is going to kill us all. You can show me as much evidence and scientific research as you want, but I'm adamant to stick to my opinion.

Don't worry, I recycle, if that makes you feel better. =]

Bumper Stickers

Click on the picture to zoom in!


These days, bumper stickers just say the darnest things.

Today, I was walking through the parking lot and came across a car with these bumper stickers. I honestly laughed out loud. Sigh, what's wrong with this picture? Literally.

"Fight the rich, not the war?" Are they implying that it's the rich people who started the war in Iraq and all other wars in general? My dear fellow, whomever you may be, you are quite incorrect. War is not terrorism. War is a drastic solution to rid ourselves of terrorism. I won't launch into my terrorism rant like I did about a month or so ago in regards to Rick Steves' lecture at my school again.

Oh, and person with the bumper stickers (and all those who agree with these bumper stickers) - We will leave Iraq when we are ready to leave Iraq, i.e. when we're sure it won't lapse back into chaos. Kay. Thanks. Bye.

On a side note, 9 days 'til Christmas!
Hannukah has already begun, I presume, so that's exciting too!
All in all, we should all be excited for whatever holiday we celebrate!
If you don't celebrate a holiday during this time, it's still okay to buy yourself a present =D.

Updates!

Well hello my loyal readers!
Yes, it is the dread finals week. At least this is my last History and French final ever (since those are A.P. classes - no second semester finals for those classes because of A.P. Exams - and I don't have finals Senior year)!

On the blogging side of things, I have decided that I will try to incorporate pictures into my blog from car bumper stickers, posters, protests, etc. that I find extremely amusing! Exciting, no?

Gay

Have you ever heard someone use the word "gay" as an insult?
It's like using the word "retarded" as an insult, no?
It's wrong. Whether you like gays or not, don't use the word as a substitution for stupid, weird, lame, etc.
I'm Asian. I'd hate it if someone said, "God! Don't be such an Asian!" Well, excuse me. What is that supposed to mean? That the person being called an "Asian" is so cool? Why yes, Asians are cool, thank you very much. Ha. Ha. Ha. <---Joke.

In all seriousness, really let's all get past the whole using random words as insults.

But what bothers me is that people make such a big deal about the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans.) community. For example, in Houston, the newly elected mayor, Annise Parker, is lesbian. Everyone is excited for her accomplishment; it is a step forward for the LGBT community. Really, that's great. But if the LGBT community wishes to be accepted by society, to be looked on as equals in matters such as marriage. They don't want to stand out, they want to be part of everything. They don't necessarily want to change themselves to have others tolerate them, but they don't want to be seen as some kind of population with leprosy. They are human beings, just like us; they're not aliens - really, they aren't. So, yes, let's all stop hating on gay people! HOWEVER. If they want to be accepted by everyone as an equal, they need to stop making such a big deal that they ARE gay. Yes, we understand, you are homosexual. We are happy for you, must you shove it in our faces constantly? People who are running for office, who are homosexual, usually win the support of pro-gay activists. No offense, but if I was a voter, I wouldn't want to vote for someone running for office who divides voters into different groups: pro- gays and anti-gays. These people in governmental positions should encourage people to vote not based on sexuality, but on what they stand for, what policies they advocate, what they will do in office! I know it's hard, but the LGBT community can't get anywhere by continuously dividing the entire human population into anti-gays and pro-gays.

We're all people, right?

Republicans are Scary People

Didn't you know? Republicans are crazy! Absurd! Why would anyone want to tell people the truth?! How absurd. We obviously are a country that likes to keep the public in the dark and not up-to-date with ongoing situations in the government. Right?

Haha, WRONG. President Obama, the GOP is not scaring American citizens. You are. Well, no, how wrong of me to target my criticism at only President Obama, well no. He is the symbol of the executive branch of our government, so I will direct my ideas towards him personally (not that he's even reading this blog). But I digress. Honestly, the only reason American citizens might be frightened is that they don't want to face the truth. The cold, harsh truth that we are already losing millions and millions of dollars from the stimulus bill (by the way, where are all the "infrastructure" jobs that were supposed to be made?) and quite frankly, maybe we shouldn't keep spending money that we don't really have. It's quite simple, really. When you don't have money, you shouldn't spend it, especially when the president before you already spent millions of dollars, also. It's quite smart to save money...perhaps in a giant piggy bank, President Obama? Just kidding, my sarcasm goes too far.

President Obama seeks support from not only the Democratic party, but also the Republican party. Of course, the president should try to gain support from all people of the legislative branch, since he stands for all Americans, not just Democrats. However, by saying that the GOP must stop frightening people...he's not going to win that much support from the GOP, themselves, now is he - I'm just saying.

Tut Tut Tut

How can anybody be expected to adhere to good morals if people who are looked upon as role models are so corrupt, themselves? Who are we to look to if these celebrities, athletes, even politicians have done so much wrong? From former President Bill Clinton to Tiger Woods, where will the corruption end?

Tiger Woods. Multi-millionaire. Super-talented golfer. Wife. Children. Monetarily successful. Never had a scandal...until now.

It's so unfortunate that Tiger Woods is also another stereotypical famous person who commits adultery. Not that the media helps at all with its constant propaganda and badgering, but Woods knew that anything he did would eventually be out in the public eye. He always had such a clean slate, the ideal role model! I quite liked Tiger Woods and his amazing putts on the golf course. But now I can't help but feel crushed myself, as if he had personally made me feel bad. If people such as Tiger Woods, who appeared to be spotless and moral, can commit such immoral deeds, then what about the rest of us?

In today's society, celebrities are quite often set upon pedestals as the leading examples for the rest of us "common folk." Well, they are nothing more than humans, just like us. But being in the spotlight constantly, they should realize the repercussions of their actions. They know that many people, children and adults alike look up to them for guidance. People do what they see being done.

So, celebrities, politicians, you famous people. Get your acts together! Stop cheating on your wives and husbands, stop using steroids, what are you trying to prove?

Marching One by One Hurrah. Hurrah.

As you all know, President Obama publicly announced last night at his speech at the prestigious military academy, Westpoint, that he will be dispatching 30,000 more troops to Afghanistan to finally end that war! Yes! (Mock enthusiasm here). Finally, after months of waiting, he has decided to make a firm move. I wonder what all those protesters outside the mall near my house will be saying this weekend. Not once have I seen them protest the war in direct relation to Obama; they've only attacked the fact that we're still at war, not the person who's responsible for not keeping to his promise to pull all the troops out in Iraq - i.e. Obama. I laugh at his incompetence. No, I'm kidding, I'm not that informed about these matters so I'm sure he's trying his best? But maybe his best could be even better...So world, let's all wake up. War isn't something we want, but sometimes it's necessary to establish peace. All those people who say that there are other ways to handle these situations are wrong, to be quite frank. If there is a terrorist group who wants to exterminate you and your countryfolk, I don't think they'd want to sit at a table and talk about it. They probably just want to kill you, or get lots of money from you, no? So, yes, war is costly not only financially and resource-wise, but life-wise too; I realize that many people are sacrificing themselves for this cause. However, they know what they were getting themselves into when they signed up to be in the army. They are ready and willing to give their lives for the greater good, and if they are voluntarily doing so, I think we should support them and commend them for their courage! We shouldn't downgrade their efforts by saying that this war is useless and we should just bring everyone home. They obviously won't be able to come home soon quite yet, so for the time being, we should just support them and continue to send our good wishes to them!

On a sidenote, I was scanning Drudge Report, and there was a picture that caught my attention - a Westpoint cadet reading a book called "Kill Bin Laden." I find this image so amusing. Just saying. Have you seen it? Click here.

My Discovery

Did you know there is an organization called National Teen Age Republicans? I just discovered them while searching for fellow conservative teens. They have clubs present in several high schools, but unfortunately only one in California - and it's in Orange County (not surprised there). I wish my own school had a Teen Age Republican Club, otherwise known as TARS! I've signed up for regular e-mails, and hopefully, I can somehow get involved. They focus on supporting local Republican government officials such as House Representatives or Senators. Each year, they even have a leadership convention in D.C. for those active in TARS.

If you'd like to look into this organization or donate, go here for their homepage.

I'm Thankful For...Life

I'm thankful that I have my freedom and independence, that I don't have to live in a concentration camp, or in extreme poverty without water. I'm thankful to be an American. When you think about it, even those who are below the poverty line here in America, seem quite better off in comparison to those in third-world countries such as Africa. Take, for example, North Korea. Those poor people who live in concentration camps, never being allowed to leave the country, imprisoned in their own homes. No individuality allowed, no creativity allowed - only pure subordination, obedience, and conformity. What kind of world is that? An awful world, that's what. So...as we're really getting into the holiday season (and Thanksgiving is over), just reflect on how lucky you might be this year. Even when you think things can't get any worse, they probably can. So be thankful and I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Now after that Hallmark-card moment, let's get down to the nitty-gritty details of what happened in the past couple of days!

Why do people have to ruin holidays by killing others? The fact that four relatives were shot dead at a Thanksgiving Party really just amazes me. No matter how angry you are, how can you resort to violence and murder? It just doesn't factor into my brain, which gets me thinking about gun control. American citizens have the right to bear arms, no? But to what extent do we allow gun control?

Which gets me think about the activists lobbying for abortion rights or anti-abortion, now that the Universal Health Care Bill is in Senate. The question of abortion is highly controversial in today's society. Once again, science is pitted against morals and possibly even religion. Personally, I am anti-abortion. No matter what scientists may say, that blastocyste is still a child. It's a potential life, as we all started out as, and killing that life before it even has a chance to live at all is inhumane. You may say that one life is worth saving perhaps millions of others who may have a disease. Well, yes, that may be the case, but who are we to decide who can live or die before the human being is even given the chance to plead his/her case? It's like that question that people are often asked: If you were standing at a lever that could switch the train tracks, and there were 3 people on one track and 5 people on one track. The train, if left to go on its original path, would kill the 5 people, leaving the 3 people on the other track completely unharmed. Would you pull the lever to change fate? I wouldn't. I'd rather know that it was meant to be that those 5 people were to die, than spend the rest of my life with the guilty conscience that I voluntarily had something to do with choosing one life over another. All lives are equal, right?

Sigh, the questions of life. Why are they so complex?

Happy Holidays everyone.

Sneaky Sneaky Ninja

A quick blurb. Can we all just stop commenting on the clothing of the Obama family? Enough with the low blows...nobody really cares about the latest White House fashion. We should all be focusing on more important things.

Like...how random uninvited people somehow managed to sneak into President Obama's first State Dinner. It's reported that an unknown couple successfully penetrated several layers of security and joined the rest of the guests, such as CBS news anchor Katie Couric, for the state dinner. How is this even possible? If you're not on the list, you're not let in...right? That's what I thought, but apparently this isn't the case.

Tareq and Michaele Salahi, some socialite North Virginians were seen in pictures taken at the dinner, posing with Couric and even Vice President Biden. This is just all so weird to me. What if they were terrorists, threatening to blow up the White House or assassinate the president?

Why aren't people making a bigger deal out of this?! Maybe it's because it just reflects poorly on the Obama administration...and their organization skills...But we wouldn't want to make President Obama look bad or anything...right? Right.

Kisses. Leashes. Comas.

I know I've been straying away from politics lately, but what can I say? I have other things on my mind - like celebrities kissing people during performances.
Adam Lambert. American Idol contestant. Openly homosexual. I have no problem with this person, except one thing - I get that he's gay, really, I do. I don't need him to shove it in my face. Therefore, I don't think his full-on kiss was necessary during the American Music Awards. I don't find this P.D.A. gross because he's gay; I am NOT homophobic. Personally, I don't want anyone (whether gay, lesbian, bisexual, or straight) kissing anybody on a stage during a performance. I also don't need to see him shoving his backup dancers' faces into his crotch <---I think I might be scarred for life. Oh, one more thing? People are human beings, not animals; we don't use leashes on people. Thanks.

Yes, my totally random rant is now over. What's really caught my attention is the incident with Rom Houben, a person who was diagnosed as comatose for 23 years - but he was really conscious the entire time. He was wrongly diagnosed as being in a coma, and then being in a vegetative state; he just couldn't speak because he was paralyzed. See, this is why we just shouldn't pull the plug. You really never know if that person you care so much about might be alive! Really, you should always have hope. Unless it really is truly the only way to go, I don't agree with people who say that it's better to pull the plug on people in vegetative states or in comas because they will never wake up. Never say never, right? That person might just wake up some day and you might have never known it - because you already pulled the plug.

Pick up the Pace

Just a quick rant - I'll add onto this more, later, but I'm running out the door to go to the library to study. I'm such a good student, no?!

The Fort Hood incident still isn't anywhere near being resolved. Major Nidal Hasan is paralyzed (oh poor mass-killer, he got himself paralyzed by shooting innocent fellow armymen) so his hearing will be in his hospital room? Does anyone else find this a little weird. Fine, let the hearing be in his hospital room but don't let that get in the way of your judgment. He's still the crazy man who killed 12 people. No sympathy for him, please.

By the way, how can anyone be a lawyer for an alleged murderer who isn't really alleged, but we all know that he did the crime? Guilty conscience much...

Ta ta for now.

- Mookayaya

Sexting? Texting? Driving?

My dad sent me the latest video of the Buzz Report (from Cnet) and it talked about lots of interesting tidbits for approximately 3 minutes and 48 seconds.

Let's talk about sexting (sex + messaging). Yes. Let's all have "cybersex" through text messages; it sounds like a party. Over the summer, I recall seeing a news segment on this very subject on the Tyra Banks Show (don't worry, I only watch this show when it's playing on the screens at the gym). Girls from age 14 to 16 were interviewed on why they "sext" and how it impacts their lives. Most of these girls had low self-esteem issues and the only way they could feel better about themselves was to take naked pictures of themselves and send it to their significant others, or just male friends in general. Some girls "sext" because they love their boyfriends; this is the way they show their love! I suppose it's understandable, because obviously we all truly find "the one" in high school and the only way to ensure that the love is reciprocated is to send naked pictures of ourselves and dirty little messages through SMS.
No. I think not. Just thinking about my fellow peers doing this kind of thing makes me want to burn my iPhone and lobby for a Text-Messaging Police to monitor text messages of people under the age of 18.
Boys and girls. Teens. Preteens. etc. Keep it in your pants. You have plenty of other things to be worrying about right now, keep those hormones in check please.
For you ladies who are feeling a little low, you think nobody thinks you're pretty? It's not true. There is at least ONE person somewhere at your school who probably thinks you're cute; guys just don't have the guts to ever say anything =). So, please don't resort to sending obscene pictures of yourselves - you might really regret it later.

Now, onto texting while DRIVING. Yes, okay, really guys. You might as well be downing some Grey Goose on the highway. You cannot POSSIBLY focus on the road while you're texting your friends about what time to see the new Twilight movie, New Moon (which I have YET to see, so don't spoil it for me). Texting while you drive is truly just a death wish; one minute you're pressing the send button the next, you've collided with the giant trunk in front of you - fun.
All in all, the lesson for drivers? Don't text. Don't update your Twitter/Facebook accounts while you're driving. I'm pretty sure you're followers on Twitter don't need to know that you're driving.

So readers: Don't sext. Don't text. Don't drink and drive. And have a wonderful Thanksgiving break highschoolers =).

P.S. Is the word "unfriend" really becoming a word for the Oxford dictionary? I'm face-palming (if you don't know what that means, it's when you put your palm to your face in resignation).

The Ultimate Solution

I think I'm still chuckling from reading the article concerning Congressman Emanuel Cleaver's proposition of having a Complain-Free Wednesday. Really. That's the solution to relieve stress? I'm pretty sure that people are complaining about the rising unemployment rate and rising taxes and oh...I don't know...the failing economy?

How on earth do you come up with the idea to have a sans-complaining day to relax? I suppose I understand that this idea is in place because it's the Wednesday before Thanksgiving (next week). Just take a vacation or keep your mumblings/grumblings to yourself, for the sake of the holiday spirit! But to be quite honest, I don't think there needs to be any formal enforcement of this day. We're all big kids, I think the people in congress know how to conduct themselves in orderly fashions.

The fact that it was a Democrat who proposed this idea just makes it funnier. Sorry, I know I'm a bit biased. What can I say? I'm a Republican for goodness sakes. Everyone keeps taking shots at Sarah Palin and other Republicans, what more can I do then laugh at the little jokes shot towards the Democratic party? =D

Click here for the article I read.

News and Blues

First off, let's start with Obama's bowing to the Japanese emperor. Really people. It's not that big of a deal. My fellow conservatives...Please stop trying to politicize everything. Yes, perhaps it was a bit odd that no other previous president ever bowed to the Japanese emperor, and this bowing wasn't even really bowing (not Asian enough, obviously), but it's not as if Obama has defaced the United States...or has he? Hm. I suppose that as the president of the United States, there is no reason for him to bow. It gives a sense of kowtowing or subordination, in a way. A simple upright handshake would have sufficed, in my opinion.

Yes, well, that's not really important. But if you want more information, click here.

Secondly, I rather like Sarah Palin's idea of integrating her political beliefs/opinions into her book to get word out. Why do the Democrats have to bombard her with such severe criticism? Haven't we criticized her enough already when she was the running mate of John McCain?

And my last point! The "Blues" part of the title of this blog post comes from the epic Swine Flu spreading around in the United States. Really, people. If you can't get vaccinated, then use effective methods of prevention! Clean hands, sanitizing, coughing into your shoulder, not sneezing then rubbing your dirty hands into your eyes, etc. Fight the flu. Now, we find that perhaps there is another mutated flu virus (or variation of pneumonia <---what?!) that is infecting people, mainly in Europe. To read more about this, click here.

Well, that's all for now. Seniors in high school - good luck with your college applications!

MIA

Hello all. So...the title of this post basically says it all. I do apologize for being MIA this week - who knew high school could actually make your schedule BUSY? Hint: That was sarcasm.

Anyways, this whole Fort Hood massacre incident has been bugging me. Really, Major Nidal Hasan needs to be imprisoned, severly severly punished. Something? We know he did it. I can't believe there are lawyers in this world who can defend criminals who are quite obviously guilty. I don't know about you, but killing 13 people and wounding several others (thus, having witnesses) seems like pretty hard-evidence to me that the "alleged" killer is guilty. We have plenty of honorable men and women who are serving our country who lose their lives, every day, whether it be in the field or not. How can there be a killer in a military fort, where it's supposed to be safe? If a military base fort isn't safe, then what is? Many people are wondering what Hasan's motive was. Honestly, yes, that is important, but what is more important is getting him in custody and away from human civilization where he can possibly shoot more people. I don't really care why he did it right now - I'm still angry that he took innocent lives.
Yes, well that was my rant on that.

ONTO BETTER THINGS.
Such as...the oh-so-close passing of Obama's infamous universal health care bill in the House of Representatives. Now, it's all up to the Senate. I can't believe it was a 220-215 vote. Really. Those darn two Democrats who got elected to the House last week! I don't quite like this universal health care idea. It comes across as a bit...oh I don't know...socialist? People at my school always get frustrated with me. They say that I am an elitist. I should want to help all low-income families and make sure that everyone gets a fair chance at good medical health care and etc. It's not that I think that people shouldn't help other people - we are a community after all. I just think that it's not the government's job just to pass a bill that will increase taxes for a certain group/class of people. The world is a confusing place.
Senate. I am counting on you to stop this bill.

Food Fight

Sometimes I wonder about the adequacy of the justice system of our country. Recently, a group of middle-schoolers was arrested for participating in a food fight at a charter school in Chicago. This entire incident resulted in the injury of 3 students and culminated in several arrests. Really. I didn't realize that 11 and 15-year-olds could be arrested for being involved in a food fight for school. Normal schools would just hand out detentions/suspensions, not call for the police. Do the teachers and principal have no authority in their own schools to restore order that they need the assistance of the FBI?

So, the police immediately arrive to arrest these young students, but they failed to notice the presence of 10 corpses hidden in someone's house, something that's been happening over the course of four years. Ten people were stashed in some murderer's home, and the police were concerned with punishing a few schoolchildren for throwing food at each other. Granted, these police were in Chicago and the other were in Cleveland, but still. The point is that there is something clearly wrong with this picture.

Sometimes I wonder. I really do.

Good Week...Bad Week...

I told you the GOP was going to be alright - Governors in New Jersey and Virginia. Not too shabby, aye? So much for Obama's wonderful agenda that had the whole country supporting him. Perhaps reality is dawning on people that maybe some of his ideas...are, well, lofty.

That's one of the highlights of my week, in the political world that is.

Onto the bad news - aww.
How on earth do we not know that there are ten dead people hidden in one single house? Isn't there...an awful smell of rotting flesh that wafts from decaying bodies? What is wrong with the police. Yes, I suppose I'm too idealistic in thinking that every complaint filed will be followed up, but really - how could they have let this happen? What is the world coming to! Just kidding, I'm being dramatic. No, but really, what is going on. I thought this only happened in movies...

Serial killer, Anthony Sowell (who's 50-years-old, might I add) had been in prison for attempted rape. Does that NOT set off an alarm for anyone? It's really disgusting to think that there are so many other people like him in the world, committing these awful crimes. How can our society have such good people of outstanding merit and character while also having creepy perverts who prey on innocent women/children.

More details here.

Energy Drinks and Basketball Games

I was looking through Drudge Report and there were several links in regards to President Obama and his physical state of being - his skinniness. Since he is the leader of our nation, I would assume that we would be concerned for his health. However, we really don't need to be writing useless articles and taking unnecessary pictures to mock him. He does look a bit thin, but I'm not going to make a joke about how he's perhaps working too hard (when I don't sincerely mean it) so he's skipping too many meals and thus, he's skinny. Usually, I would laugh at subtle jabs such as these, but I honestly didn't find anything amusing. Let's all get over it...Instead, let's move onto more amusing jokes!

For example, what is a bit amusing is Michelle Obama's quite sculpted biceps. She must really be hitting those weights at the gym! Perhaps...she should lighten up on those weights? Just kidding. No, but seriously, her arms are beastly - and I'm not sure if that's a good or bad thing

President Obama's New Thin Look
Michelle Obama's Beastly Muscles

The Dying GOP

I was looking through Yahoo! News, and I came across an article concerning Dierdre Scozzafava and the Republicans' reactions to her sudden support for Democrat Bill Owens. Now people are talking about how perhaps the GOP doesn't like moderates, doesn't accept anyone who isn't a hardcore Republican. Well...from a logical perspective, wouldn't you want someone who was more Republican-oriented in decisions to be a part of your political party - if you, yourself, are a Republican? Why on earth would anybody want someone to be a part of their party when the person in question could possibly one day switch parties (e.g. Senator Arlen Specter of Pennsylvania). Yes, the Republican party has its work cut out. There is much reconstructing, rebuilding, and re-campaigning to do, but that's no reason to suddenly assume that the GOP is falling apart.
So everyone take a deep breath and relax. The GOP isn't going anywhere. =)


Click Here for the Yahoo! News article.

Happy Halloween!

First of all, let's all be happy that we gained an extra hour of sleep last night! I love Daylight Savings. Really. I do.

Now, on to more serious topics - like Halloween! The night when trick-or-treaters knock on your door asking for candy, or maybe money for UNICEF. This holiday, if you can call it that, brings in a lot of money for the confection industries. I, myself, can not resist a good Snickers bar or maybe even some peanut M&Ms. Oh the nutty goodness! Personally, I'm not a huge fan of Halloween, sans the occasional chocolate here and there. My house has a few pumpkins in the front and sometimes there are even Halloween-themed stickers in the windows. Other than that, it's a typical night.

But I guess the Obamas are big Halloween fans? Or is it a facade...Just kidding! Apparently, the White House was an ideal house to hit up for some candy! All kinds of trick-or-treaters visited our nation's capitol to see President Obama, his wife (dressed as uh...a cat-woman-thing?), and even some of his cabinet members. I must say, the First Wife looks rather uh...cat-ish? Might I suggest she never wear that outfit again? However, I think it was interesting to see the president attempt to get into the Halloween spirit, though he, himself, didn't dress up. I suppose he must maintain his presidential dignity.

No, but in all honesty, I find this going all out for Hallowen very ridiculous. With giant pumpkins and orange lighting, along with the thousands of candies and goodies that the White House kitchen staff prepared, isn't it a bit much? I'm sure those children/families had other places that would give out equally scrumptious sugary goodies. Right?

Well Happy belated Halloween everyone. With love from the White House.

Rick Steves and Politics

He's unbiased, observant, well-learned, and makes great travel guides. It's Rick Steves. He came to our school today to discuss his new book about traveling, politics, and global consciousness.
It's too bad he comes across as a left-wing extremist who preaches to us about the unfortunate discrepancies between the rich and poor, yet he himself is a CEO and is talking to a group of private-school students. Hello hypocrisy.

He claims that the United States is an empire! Terrorism is overrated! So a few hundred or thousand people die here and there; it's unfortunate but who cares! We all need to move on with our lives, help out the economy, don't let those terrorists get us down! Well, I'm sorry to say Mr. Steves, but that's just not how the world works. Terrorism is overrated, probably too much propaganda...Until you're the one being held hostage, or worse - you're already dead. He claims we are an all-too-militaristic community! Yes, but that's because many people/countries in the world would love to bomb us.

He says we dehumanize our enemies! Yes, but don't all people do that? Dehumanize makes me think of aliens...for some strange reason. Anyways, the bottom line is that yes, we may sometimes dehumanize those we don't know, which leads to stereotypes (e.g. all Pakistani/Iranians/etc. are terrorists!). We know that these stereotypes are superficial and most likely incorrect, but we are all human. It is in our nature to immediately group similar people together and judge them; I'm not saying it's right, but it's how things are. He gets angry when the United States goes in and massacres a group of people, including women and children, because we mistook the groom to be Osama Bin Laden. He says we should feel sorry for that family, but we don't, because we're too busy sympathizing with a young child who's family was all killed and she is the only one left. Well, how do you know, Mr. Steves, that we don't feel bad for that innocent family who was murdered? How can someone who says that we shouldn't over-generalize people, over-generalize us?

He also went on to talk about how his own daughter has braces, and many of her classmates (a majority of them, in fact) have braces, too. He says that two sets of braces (approximately $5000) could dig a well in Africa. We should cut our own expenses to help others. However, is it so wrong to put to use the money our parents/we have worked hard for? Once Mr. Steves takes the braces off his own daughter and stops not-so-subtly incorporating sales pitches for his tour guides in his speeches, I will consider persuading the masses to give up things like braces. But until then, I'm stuck with having metal in my teeth.

My rant is over now. Have a wonderful weekend! =]

What To Do in an Emergency

From the beginning of our adolescence to our last year of high school, we are always reminded what to do in case of an emergency (whether it be medical or criminal, etc.). We call 9-1-1. When our parents are having a heart attack, when we find a dead body, when we get into a car accident, we call 9-1-1. So how is it possible that twenty, not one, but twenty people did not call 9-1-1 as they heard/saw a 15-year-old girl being gang raped outside Richmond High School?

Perhaps these witnesses were scared that they, themselves, would be the next victim of they ratted out these criminals. Maybe they did this to protect their families. Regardless of the reason, I think that the the California law that requires a witness of a crime of a child to contact the police should stand for all people, not just children 14 and under. It is common sense to help a person in need; shouldn't we all be Good Samaritans? Or are we all just too cowardly, or have too much to do to get involved in such a complicated matter.

How can you be a human being and not help a young 15-year-old girl when she is being sexually assaulted right before your eyes? Even if you hear something and it seems wrong, how can you not dial 9-1-1 (even anonymously)? If these witnesses are teens,(which most of them might be) then I'm ashamed to call myself a teenager. Really, now, where is our sense of duty to our neighbors and fellow community members - our morals?

So, what do we do in an emergency? We call. 9-1-1.

Let's Party Like It's 1999!

Like Prince's infamous song, 1999, says, let's all party like it's 1999!

1999. Barack Obama was only 38-years-old, serving in the Illinois Senate. The year Spongebob Squarepants' first episode debuted on Nickelodean. The year that the Dow Jones closed above 11,000 points for the first time! Yeah! Party!

Yes, well, I'm sorry to break it to you all. But it's 2009, not 1999. Nobody knows who the Backstreet Boys are, nobody uses Napster, and we now use MacBooks not iBook G3s. How times have changed.

So, President Obama, why are you still focused on so much fund-raising and campaigning for your fellow Democrats in Congress? Yes, elections will be coming up for the Senate. But, really, instead of throwing parties and large fundraisers in efforts to raise money for your Party, why don't we focus on more important things...like global climate change, world hunger, our health care, nuclear threats, terrorism, and oh, I don't know, maybe...our national debt? It's time to put your priorities of your political party behind and think for the entire nation as a whole, Republicans and Democrats alike. Those parties being thrown must cost a lot of money to plan and organize...don't you think?

A Word of Advice

7-year-old Somer Thompson's body was finally discovered in orange Park, Florida garbage dump. 9-year-old Elizabeth Olten's body was found in the forest.
My heart truly goes out to these families for the devastating losses of their daughters.

However, what's more important is that all families in the United States realize that allowing a young 10-year-old daughter to walk around alone with her younger siblings after school, coming home, is not a possibility anymore. The perverts and sex-offenders will take every chance they get to steal away young girls, and older girls, alike. So, please, don't let your kids go anywhere or do anything alone, even if it's just walking home from school. Even if you're 16-years-old or 21-years-old, you're still a possible target from these creepy men (maybe even female). As Halloween rolls around, I hope you are ALL very careful!

Democrat or Despot

In my A.P. U.S. History, we debated whether or not former President Andrew Jackson was a Democrat or despot. We eventually concluded that he was indeed a Democrat. It was noted that although he had his own personal ideals that were not well-liked by the public, he ultimately tried to ensure equality for all and carefully monitored the power that the government held. Apparently, President Barack Obama does not feel the same about the checks and balances system. The first amendment of the Constitution of the United States of America clearly states that all American citizens have freedom of speech. I do believe that Fox News maintains the right to free speech, too.

So, why does President Obama and his administration see fit to prevent Fox News Channel from entering the "pool" at the press conference of pay-czar Kenneth Feinberg? I understand that President Obama recieves much criticism from Fox News, but former President Bush also recieved much criticism from the media. Yet, we did not see former President Bush ever block a media source from reporting what they want. How can someone who won the NOBEL PEACE PRIZE act like this? Even news stations such as ABC, CBS, CNN and NBC refused the interview with Feinberg, standing up for the freedom of speech guaranteed for for Fox News, and all other media sources of the world. If Obama is targeting FNC, who's next? Look at poor Sarah Palin who is STILL attacked, though she has already stepped down from her position of governor of Alaska. I don't see her refusing all interviews and ignoring the world; she has to deal with the problems presented in a professional and peaceful manner.

Mr. President, you are in fact what your title is - the president of the United States. As the president, you must stand for all the people, not just the people who agree with you. Can you please stop acting like a sophomoric fourth-grader and focus on the more important issues? For example, oh I don't know, our enormous debt? Like Bill O'Reilly says, "Mr. President, you have better things to do than continue this petty feud."

To further Republican annoyance, Florida congressman Alan Grayson seems to also be walking down the trail of radicalism and extreme rudeness. As a politician, one does not use rude rhetoric such as to say that "Fox news and the Republican collaborators are the enemy of America." Also, how can you criticize the (now former) vice president Dick Chenney and ask "When he was done speaking, did he just turn into a bat and fly away?" Really. We don't talk like spiteful little kids. Can we all just act like professionals here?

Flying Saucers and Little Boys

It's a bird, it's a plane, no..it's a UFO!

Actually, it was a helium balloon? The Heenes family were struck with fear as they saw the little saucer-baloon-object fly into the sky...they thought their 6-year-old son was trapped inside. Trapped inside a helium balloon. In the sky. For two hours?

Highly unlikely, in my opinion. It turns out the boy was in a box in the attic the whole time. What's even more amusing is that the entire situation was a prank, a joke, a plan to book a reality TV show like Jon & Kate Plus 8. That's sad. I feel no pity for the parents, but I do feel sympathy for poor 6-year-old Falcon Heene. It wasn't his fault that his parents are money-seeking, selfish people, wasting money and time of emergency units. It also is not his fault that he is an innocent, honest little boy who spoke the truth on national television (Larry King Live) when he revealed that he was hiding in the attic "for the show."

Charges are going to put against the parents? Good. They need to find something better to do with their time.

The Neverending Debate

How do you differentiate between truth and fallacy? Easy. Truth has evidence and it's realistic. Fallacy? Well that's everything that truth isn't. Fallacies are things that can not be substantiated with concrete reasoning and proof.

If the fundamentals of true and false are so simple, why is it actually very difficult to extrapolate the truth in matters such as...oh I don't know...the theory of evolution?

Science and religion seem to always be at odds. The Theory of Evolution is constantly debated, as is the Big Bang Theory. How was the earth created? How did mankind become what it is today? Do we share a common ancestor, eventually diverging into different groups of species and bacteria? Or is there a Greater Being (i.e. God) that reigns from above?

Coming from a religious family, I see it from both sides. I believe myself to be a full-Christian (however you might define/perceive that as). Yet, growing up in the 21st century, I do have a significant amount of trust in science. As I looked through a forum, I came upon this video. Though the topic is discussing the validity of Bill O'Reilly's techniques of debate on his Fox News show, The O'Reilly Factor, the debates themselves are amusing and intriguing.

After being brought to my attention, the subject of whether or not the Theory of Evolution should be taught in schools has really stuck in my mind. On one hand, I do believe that all students should be given the opportunity to learn and become aware of the fact that such a theory exists. It's important to be knowledgeable when we live in such a diverse and technology-oriented science today. Yet, students (especially those who might be religious) should also be given the chance to understand that there are some things that science cannot always explain. The school system in the United States is very influential, especially with the younger children. If one option is offered as an explanation, other reasons should be offered simultaneously.

This matter is very complicated, and the debating shall probably continue throughout the centuries. However, til then, perhaps we need to reevaluate the situation. It is the minds of the future inhabitants of the world that we're talking about.

And the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize Goes To...

President Baraq Obama.

The world is still in shock...as am I.
How is it possible that after being in office for barely a year, President Obama is awarded the Nobel Peace Prize? I wasn't aware of the fact that peace had been achieved by President Obama in the Middle East. I see no logic in the Nobel committee's selection of President Obama. They claim that he was selected for his noble efforts to rid the world of nuclear weapons (emphasis on the word efforts) and re-instilled a sense of hope in the global community. I, being part of this global community, don't really feel any safer about the nuclear weapons issue in North Korea or Iran, but maybe that's just me.

However, perhaps this Nobel Peace Prize will propel President Obama to try harder to achieve his goals of "peace" and drive him to achieve even greater things in the future. Who knows?

Cross Crisis

75 years ago, a cross was resurrected in the Mojave Desert to honor the noble soldiers who gave their lives in World War I.

Emphasis on the word - honor. There is no religious significance behind this cross - it's to stand as a symbol of recognition to remember those who gave their lives. So, then, why is the validity of the presence of the cross being questioned in the Supreme Court? People these days seem to want to make a big deal out of the smallest issues. Religion being one of them. Though there really is no religious/Christian implication with this particular cross, people want to take it down. Does the cross imply that only Christian soldiers are being honored? Not to my knowledge. The United States, itself, was founded on Christian principles. Even the dollar bill says "In God We Trust." It was absurd enough to think that people were making a big deal about the part of the Pledge of Allegiance that says "one nation under GOD". Now, they want to take down a 75-year-old memorial that was made in tribute to courageous self-sacrificing veterans. Why can't people just leave it alone?

THE APOCALYPSE.

How many movies/television shows have you seen, or heard of, lately that has to do with the finals day of Earth - THE END OF EVERYTHING AS WE KNOW IT.

I really can't stand these movies; I don't find anything interesting in these productions at all. What movies have there been? The Day After Tomorrow or the latest movie to be released, 2012. When I think about the Apocalypse, I think of the Mayans. The ancient civilization that mysteriously vanished without a trace, who believed that there was a definitive day when the world would just end. This day is rapidly coming up - December 21, 2012. Wow, I'll be a sophomore in college by then!

Is it interesting to see that the Mayans had this particular day marked on their calendars? Yes; it reveals a lot about their culture and beliefs. Does this mean that people should start preparing for the end of the world? I don't know. Personally, I don't believe in this theory of "Doomsday", but I suppose it's a personal belief.

But, in all honesty, Hollywood really needs to stop making these kinds of plots. Sudden people disappearing, mass of people becoming ill...what else is there? This new movie, 2012, coming up? My suggestion - don't waste your money seeing it.

Rejection. It's Hard to Accept.

As many of you may well know, President Obama was a strong advocate of making Chicago, Illinois, the next place for the summer Olympics in 2016.

It sounded like a good idea - the United States being the home of the next summer Olympics. That is, until Chicago was ruled out immediately after Round 1 of the selection process. Even after the persuasive attempts by the First Lady, Michelle Obama, herself, the committee remained adamant to keep Chicago out of the running. Where is all that egotism now?

Instead, the honor has gone to Rio de Janeiro, the second largest city of Brazil. I congratulate them on this honor - even beating out Madrid in the final round of selection! However, I am still disappointed that Chicago did not receive this very same honor; yet, I am amused. Let's all remind ourselves of the current state of our country's economy and morale. Though this could have been an ideal opportunity to reestablish foreign relations and our global status as a nation, it's okay my fellow Americans. We still have other things to worry about.

Welcome to the 21st Century...

This is the 21st century, right? So why is there still elitism and unequal treatment in society? What do I mean? I mean, why is it that celebrities and other important people (such as politicians and filmmakers) are let off the hook every so often?

Take for example, Oscar award-winning filmmaker Roman Polanski. In 1977, Polanski raped a young, innocent 13 year-old girl. After not attending his own sentence at court, he fled in 1978 to France to avoid being sentenced to prison. Now, 32 years later, he has finally been arrested when he was recognized in Zurich, Switzerland (no longer under the protection of the French).
How is it possible that nobody has continued to make it a big deal after a man sexually abused a young girl? Does being a filmmaker excuse him from being under jurisdiction of the laws of the country? No, it doesn’t. He is a citizen of the United States, just like the rest of us. He is not a deity; he is not above the law. How can nobody continuously attempt to serve justice and reprimand him for his disgusting crime? Is there still such elitism and unfair treatment today

Stop Militarizing Our Youth!

That's what the single protester's sign read as I drove by yesterday. When former President Bush was in office, at the beginning of the War on Terrorism, large groups of protesters were present all over the U.S. One particular place was on the corner of a street near the large shopping complex near my house. Signs saying "Bring our troops home!" and others such things in regards to the negative aspects of the war could often be seen as upset families and citizens marched up and down the street. As time has passed, the number of these protesters has diminished considerably. I never really thought I'd still see anybody protesting the war until these past few weeks. In particular, yesterday, one lonely protester stood on the corner of the street and held up a large sign saying "Stop Militarizing Our Youth!". I don't quite understand. Although I know how difficult it is for families, relatives, and friends of those who have committed themselves to a life of serving in the United States military and armed forces, I don't see how anybody is "militarizing" these soldiers. There has been no draft to force anyone to join the army. Usually, when people join the military, they know the hard work, dedication, and potential sacrifice they might have to make in the future if their country requires this of them. There is always a choice...isn't there? Or am I missing something.

So, yes, I do sympathize with those who have lost loved ones in the war, or who are suffering without their loved ones near them because they are serving in the war at the moment. However, really, there is no "militarizing" going on right now. So...let's put the cardboard signs away and find something else to protest about...like...pollution?

Knock Knock, Who's There - Terrorists

You see cars and other vehicles almost every day of your life, whether it be on the streets, in garages, or on the highway. Isn't it disturbing to think that one of those cars could contain highly-dangerous explosives that could kill a mass amount of people? This makes me want to stay away from any vans or trucks.

Recently, in the U.S., there have been several reported domestic threats against our national security. I won't be talking about the specifics, because that will just bore you, but you can go to Yahoo! News to get a quick summary of what's been going on. I don't understand this concept of Jihad. I took A.P. World History last year, I've been studying Islam since the 7th grade, and yet, I still don't understand how these religious jihads can be so violent. Dictionary.com defines as "a holy war undertaken as a sacred duty by Muslims." This holy war has been interpreted as many different types of "wars," may it be as radical as sacrificing yourself as a suicide bomber to making subtle protests in the community. Being religious myself, I understand that the religious text (for Muslims, the Koran) and religious practices such as jihad may be very important. Yet why must they take the lives of others in the process? I thought that the very fundamentals of Islam was that they were accepting of all religions; they may not practice or accept them in society, necessarily, but they surely were tolerant. I never thought this holy war concept must be so extreme.

So, why do they keep coming to the United States, seeking revenge? Where will all these innocent deaths get them? Is it for their pride? Their religion? Their hatred of Americans? I don't know, but I really hope that these terrorists keep to themselves and stop scaring us. I don't want to be scared every time I see a deserted van.

A Big Difference

Photo Credit

There is a big difference between having a nuclear power plant for the purpose of generating energy for your country, and having a nuclear power plant to create nuclear weapons to wage war and destroy your enemies. Isn't there?

Yes, there is. According to the United Nations agreement, Iran has broken the international agreement and restrictions/limits on having nuclear reactors. Up until now, we saw President Obama attempt to "negotiate" with Iranian leaders and make "peace". Well, now it's time to stop trying to hold hands around the fire and sing Kumbaya, it's time to act. Now that a secret nuclear facility has been discovered in Iran, President Obama is finally realizing that the threat of nuclear bombs (especially from Iran) is a real threat. Merely shaking your head and saying "tut, tut, tut, you shouldn't have massive nuclear power plants that could possibly make weapons of mass destruction and destroy neighboring countries" is not enough to make a change. When are we going to actually go and do something? Hopefully soon, because I don't want to see any place get blown up with radioactive uranium.

Defense Against the Dark Arts (or maybe just against the Dark Creepers)

It's scary to admit, but there are a lot of strange people in this world - perverts, stalkers, creepers, etc. Sometimes, there are just several misunderstood people who think they have something to prove because they've been so mistreated in their lives - therefore, they see it just to seek revenge by taking innocent lives of others. I don't really try to understand the psyche of these men/women, but what I do try to understand is the feelings of the families who have their sons/daughters kidnapped or murdered. How awful must it feel for a mother or father to live for years without knowing how their child is, or how devastating it must be for a parent to be informed that their college daughter has been murdered in a laboratory - i.e. Yale graduate student Annie Le.

When I go to Google.com and type in the search terms "girl missing," I receive approximately 42,600,000 hits. That, in itself, is horrifying. So many people, especially teenage/young girls, are missing on a regular basis throughout the year. Teenage girls who walk on the streets alone, or walk around college campuses at night, are primary targets. Even being in a parking lot at night, alone, can be an easy target for a predator.

What are some tips, my fellow teenage females?
(I know, I've been doing a lot of tip-oriented blurbs these days.)
1) Don't walk alone, anywhere, especially at night. Take a buddy or two, or three, or four! (Just kidding, that might be a little much). Two females really aren't much of a threat though, so maybe take one of your best guy friends!
2) Don't meet strangers online. If you do somehow manage to chat some "guy" up on IM, don't meet them in real life. Don't give out your personal information either. That "cute guy" could be a registered sex offender...or worse?
3) If you have a MySpace, Facebook, Twitter, etc. don't put your real information! If you do, make it private, or protect it somehow. Don't ever put your age, location, name of school, or anything else like that on there. Even pictures can give away hints. (Remember, even if you put fake information, there are these things called hackers who can find out your information through other means).

So that was more like multiple tips combined into three main tips, so hope that gives you a little insight!

I should probably take up some martial arts classes again...you never know when that might come in handy.

Pigge Flu, Piggie Flu, Go Away...Come Again No Other Day

Swine Flu. Otherwise known as H1N1. A deadly disease that will kill you!

Once again, I am just kidding. Actually, this disease have been know to lead to deaths, but I'm sure that's not the case at my school. This past week, approximately 125 students have been reported ill due to severe flu or, in most cases, Swine Flu. My classes were half empty due to the mass absence of my peers. Some people have begun to wear facial masks to prevent themselves from getting sick; teachers are armed with hand sanitizers, Clorox wipes, and other types of disinfectants.

It all started from one student. One student who had the Swine Flu but did not want to miss school. So he came to school...and got everyone else sick!

We all understand that high school is labor-intense for many of us, but really, if you're sick/not feeling well, please don't come to school. Stay home, get better, then come back! If not, then all your friends and enemies at school will get sick.

There have been rumors that if there are 150 reported absences of students due to Swine Flu, the school may have to shut down for quarantine, but I highly doubt that this is the case. If it is, then that's awful - everything will be put on hold (classes, games, rehearsals). SO, here are some tips for those of you who'd like to prevent yourself from becoming ill this Flu season!

1. Wash your hands with soap and warm water regularly.
2. Please remember that Swine Flu can be transmitted through the air, so if someone's coughing - hold your breath as you walk by and turn your head in the opposite direction.
3. Carry hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes with you! It might be paranoia, but you'll thank me later.
4. Also remember that touching doorknobs, doors, lockers, chairs, tables, desks - all of these things have been touched by another person, so be wary that you don't rub your eye (or any other open body part) in case those items are infected with the germ.
5. If you know someone who's sick, please escort them to the nurse/hospital and get them diagnosed!
6. If you're feeling a headache, sore throat, coughing, runny nose - it could be the flu/Swine flu; go get it checked out!
7. Get vaccinated ASAP! Try and go to the nearest clinic and get a vaccine for the classic flu. It might help!

There you go. So please...stay safe, stay healthy, and stay germ-free this flu season!

Catch Some Z's Please

Wow, that title rhymes. I must be tired.
Lately, I haven't been getting the required amount of sleep (not that I usually do during the school year anyways). So, it prompted me to write a quick blurb to all you teenagers out there: GET SLEEP.
If you have an epic amount of homework, like I do, then I feel your pain. But, really, I've found that when I get that extra hour of sleep I can pay more attention (and even participate) in class, rather than struggling to take notes and stay awake during lectures.
Some Awesome Tips?
1) Sleep in the car. Those extra 15 minute naps seem to power me up.
2) Get your homework done as fast as you can! Close that iTunes, turn off your iPod/mp3, shut off your computer if you don't need it (especially those of you who use Facebook, Twitter, or AIM/Gtalk/other IM services).
3) Eat correctly! Don't skip meals, or eat skimpy meals - food gives you energy. You need energy to function in high school.
4) Get some exercise. Sometimes, even taking a quick 20 minute jog can help you get your blood pumping and keep you fully-concentrated during your homework time.
5) If you're not getting even the super-bare-minimum of 6 hours of sleep, you need to get help with your time management. Ask your parents (I know, scandalous, right? But yes, ask those adults around you to help you out).

That's just my quick little advice for now. Nothing political/new news.

Have a greatttt day at school guys! (Or at least try to.)

Stork Delivery Goes Wrong

When we're young, we always ask our parents where babies come from. Obviously, the magical stork brought each child to its parents. So, if Mr. Stork is consistently bringing cute little babies to happy parent(s), why did he make such an epic mistake?

In North Dakota, a new mother accidentally took home the wrong baby. I don't exactly know why, or how this is possible, but I do know that this is absurd. How can you take the wrong child? Doesn't the hospital have forms to sign when checking out? Isn't it the nurse(s) who bring the child to its mother? And if Mr. Stork is in charge of the entire process, shouldn't he have brought the baby safely to its parent? Though the newborn baby was quickly reunited with its own mother, I'm still appalled that it's even possible to take someone else's son/daughter by accident. What is wrong with our hospital system?

Photo Credit: Click Here.

September 11

It has been 8 years since the 9/11 burning of the twin towers.

Eight years is a pretty long time; I was beginning 3rd grade at the time, and now I'm a junior. To my disappointment, my school did not have a moment of silence or anything in recognition of the tragic event. Though many lives were taken on that day, I think it's important to remember what happened and honor those who did pass away.

This is why it angers me when I hear people say that 9/11 was a planned attack, or that it was a conspiracy that former President George W. Bush and his administration new about, but did nothing to prevent it. Take Obama adviser Van Jones, for instance. The ridiculous petition he signed in 2004 had several prominent names of people who supported the theory that the Bush administration deliberately allowed the terrorists to attack the twin towers and the Pentagon. Now, Jones apologizes by saying that he never truly supported any of those statements and he never meant to offend anyone. So, then, why did he sign the petition? I don't quite understand that. I don't take his apology sincerely, and I'm pretty sure that many others agree with me.

How can anyone disrepect the Bush administration, and more importantly, the people who gave their lives that day - victims and servicemen alike? It's ridiculous that people would actually consider things like this.

For more information, click here.

Help for All?

As I was listening to the radio earlier this week, the talk show hosts were discussing the problems with the lack of clarification in the Obama administration's new health care program. One main issue was that two parts of the proposal were contradictory - the policy that undocumented immigrants would not be treated, and the policy that formal verification of citizenship would not be mandatory when purchasing the health care. I was slightly amused at this discovery of fault in the proposal. However, now that these issues have been cleared up according to Msnbc, I suppose I can stop laughing now.

What really bothers me is the fact that even in emergency situations, the undocumented immigrants (i.e. illegal immigrants) are allowed to be treated, and the hospitals will eventually be refunded by a federal grant program. No, I'm not an inhumane person; I still want these people to somehow be treated, especially if they're in critical condition. However, I don't understand why these illegal immigrants are even allowed to stay in the United States once it's been discovered that they are not legal citizens. What gives them the right to use the people's money so they can go to the hospital? It's all very complicated, in my opinion. I suppose that's why teenagers aren't allowed to be politicans.

mycharity: water

mycharity: water

I've decided to start a campaign in memory of my grandpa, James Ka, who passed away 2 years ago due to Alzheimer's Disease. I thought that it would be great to do something in time for the end of 2009 that would help others. I know he'd like that! So, click on the link above and donate! $1, $5, $20, anything you want! Every cent counts! =]

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The Most Important Thing in the World Is...

MONEY!
No, I'm kidding, it's not. But, from what I can see, Americans adore food. Though our economy is in recession, the popular restaurants in town are continuously packed with lines out the door. For example, here in San Jose, there's a popular outdoor-venue mall called Santana Row. On Friday and weekend nights, the bars, trendy restaurants, and cafes are full of people - the entire parking lot is full! Like tonight, for example, we went to a seafood restaurant near my house called The Boiling Crab. The line was out the door, and the room was packed. This restaurant wasn't exactly McDonald's low-priced either. So as I see large groups of teenagers and college students come in to dine, I ask myself - how on earth are they paying for this? Shouldn't they be saving their money for more important things? It's interesting that though the economy is the way it is, the concept of eating and food is still important. People will always need to eat, and people will always enjoy eating, too.

Similarly, we all still need our Starbucks and coffee in the morning. That's a perfect example! Why is it that many of us spend 1.75 on a Tall sized Decaf Coffee in the morning at Starbucks, when at home, it takes half-an-hour to brew or a few minutes with instant coffee? I have no idea. I can't really say anything, since I, too, enjoy Starbucks hot chocolates quite frequently.

So THIS is where all of our money is going - the food industry.

Blog Update!

Hello readers! Sooo...as the new school semester has begun, I've been adding different features to my blog! Exciting, no? To the left hand side, you will see a SocialVibe box. I've decided to choose charity: water as my charity to help! Every time YOU, the fabulous reader, engage with this gadget, money will be added to the running total that will be donated to donating gallons of water to charity: water! Get your friends, family, or even perfect strangers to come and help this cause!

Good luck to you all - let's see how many gallons we can donate!

For more information about Charity : Water, read this.

Farewell Class of '09

As last year's class of '09 seniors leave for college, I wish them all the best of luck. This past week, I saw many alumni come to visit, and I realize how time flies. I tell myself I have two years, two years, two years - but in reality, that's not a lot of time. Soon, high school will be a thing of the past, and I could be living 3,000 miles away from home.

However, for now, I only think of my dear friends who have graduated, who embark upon their journeys to college and beyond. Many people are staying here in California, but some are traveling to Boston and New York. Wherever they might be headed, I hope that they discover wonderful friends and achieve their goals and dreams. Good luck class of '09!

School: Not a Place for Politics

It was called to my attention just a few moments that President Obama plans to give a speech to students grades K-12 on September 8, 2009 (day after Labor Day). My immediate reaction was, I must admit, annoyance. Why would we be forced to listen to this speech? I didn't really want to be required to do anything related to politics at school. Then, I read into this topic on Yahoo! News, and I sighed in relief. No public (especially private) schools were required to air the speech during school hours; it was strongly "encouraged".

Some quotes from other bloggers were given. One ninth grader seemed quite upset that his school wasn't airing the speech. Many people are outraged, and many are accepting of this idea of President Obama's speech. I, for one, don't see the point of doing this. In my opinion, it seems a bit like President Obama is trying too hard to reach out - are little kindergarteners really going to understand that importance of reforming education? No. Having a little sister in kindergarten, I can assure you that after a few minutes of watching the speech, she would start to fidget and think of what she was going to do at recess, not the complex discussion of why education is necessary in today's society.

Yes, many highschoolers might be eager to watch President Obama because they are still pro-Obama since his campaign days advocating "Change". I would not be one of those highschoolers. Whether it be former President Bush or former President Clinton, I have no desire to do anything politically-related at school if forced. It is my strong belief that political discussions should be saved for club-related activities or chitter-chatter in the halls with peers, not for school-advocated functions.

I do hope that the public schools who are airing the speech during school hours are allowing parents to have the option of keeping their child from watching the speech, if they so choose. It'd be wrong not to leave that option open.

It's Real...Or Is It

On the debate team, constant research is necessary in order to have recent evidence at tournaments. The Number 1 website that we are forbidden from ever using is The Onion. Interestingly enough, the home page calls it, "America's Finest News Source." I find this extremely amusing, because The Onion is infamous for its biased and unreliable sources - yet, it makes great reading for discussions in debate.

The most recent, interesting article released from The Onion discusses Neil Armstrong's landing on the moon. It is claimed that a conspiracy theorist has successfully convinced Armstrong that the lunar landing on the moon was indeed a conspiracy, never really happening. I find this extremely hard to believe. However, this article was very amusing as I sat at my computer at lunch today. I'm not a conspiracy theorist myself, I promise you. But isn't it interesting to consider the possibility that perhaps scientists don't really know everything they say they do? Just like the lunar landing. Do I believe we went to the moon? Yes. However, this article got me thinking of other things that might possibly be over-exaggerated or inaccurate...

Any ideas? E-mail wwatcher21@yahoo.com.

R.E.S.P.E.C.T.

Respect. The word we all have come to know and love. School rules always have something about respecting teachers and peers. One must respect the law, their elders, etc.

Today, I was being the ever-so-studious student, studying for SATs and doing homework at the library. All of a sudden, in the middle of an exciting critical reading problem, I heard shouting from across the room. I turned to see a group of young men (maybe even in their late teens) taunting a crippled elderly man, I was pretty mad. Yes, the elderly gentleman was a bit out of his mind as he rambled on about freedom of speech, but that doesn't give anyone the right to tease him. It's called respect - I wish more teenagers these days would learn the definition of that word. As I saw this man being ridiculed by these boys, I wanted to go over to the other side of the room and give them a piece of my mind. However, it wasn't my place to interfere - especially since I am: 1) Only 16 years old. 2) A female who doesn't know martial arts to protect myself (in case something went wrong).

I asked myself, what was so fun about teasing this man? What was so great about bothering someone else? Does it make them feel good to tease someone who might not be in a stable mindset, to provoke them to the point where the person is upset? What is gained from this situation? The answer is this - nothing. So why do people do such cruel things? I really don't know.

Maybe people should stop watching Family Guy (where concepts such as respect don't exist), and start watching healthy T.V. shows that don't encourage the use of foul language and other inappropriate behaviors.

Until then, I guess I'll have to learn some martial arts so I'll be prepared for another situation like the one I witnessed today.

Going Green

Everywhere I look, the "Let's be earth-friendly movement" seems to be advertised. Disney Channel has its own song "Send It On" with tween stars Miley Cyrus, Selena Gomez, Demi Lovato, and the Jonas Brothers. The message to "send it [the message to be environmentally friendly] on" is repeated throughout the song multiple times - repetition is key to remembering things. Even in fashion magazins such as Teen Vogue, there are eco-friendly beauty products, bags, and clothes advertised by celebrities. I wonder if these people actually care about the environment, or they like being advocates of such helpful movements and of course, being paid for the advertisements. I hope it's not the latter.

I'm quite enthusiastic about being environmentally friendly, but only to a certain extent. Yes, I recycle often and don't leave lights/running water on, but I probably won't be standing on the streets holding up "GO GREEN" signs during a protest. However, while waiting for my mother outside of Whole Foods the other day, I saw a group of people wandering around, asking for people to sign petitions and give donations to an environmental group foundation. As I saw these people, I asked myself - I wonder if they own anything made from animals/hides, or if they use animal-tested make-up/hair products. For me, I think that if you stand for environmental protection, then it's only fair that you protect the creatures of the environment, too - just my opinion.

But I digress. What I mean to say is that these environmental movements are slowly getting repetitive and annoying. Yes, I know it's important to conserve energy and not destroy the ozone layer anymore, but it's not going to happen suddenly. Over time, people will all come to realize how important it is to preserve the earth; but I don't believe in the idea that the world will dramatically end (especially anytime soon). It's true that one person can make a difference, but having protests and making people feel angry and creating tensions probably won't help the cause. Aren't there any other way to get the message across? I'm sure there are.

So, will I unplug the plugs that I don't need tonight? Yes.
Do I try not to use non-biodegradable styforoam objects? Yes.
Will I help to plant trees with Key Club this year? Yes.
Will I stop using automobile transportation alltogether? Probably not.

However, I definitely encourage you to initiate and incorporate any changes into your own daily lives - I commend you!!
Have any interesting ideas about the environment, and what we can do to help it? E-mail wwatcher21@yahoo.com.

POP! Goes the iPhone

Do you have an iPhone, or maybe an iTouch? My parents do, as do a significant portion of my friends and even my sister. What's so fantastic about the iPhone or iTouch? The games are addicting and amusing, while the applications on the iPhone are always handy. With portable GPS systems, wi-fi access, and much more, these Apple products are hot on the market.

Did I mention that there is a slight chance that your wonderful Apple gadget will explode in your face? Don't worry, you won't die - they're not bombs. Perhaps some glass shards all around you from the screen, and a burning hot piece of metal in your hands. I'm hyperbolizing; the injuries that can be inflicted are minor. The reported incidents of exploding iPhones are few, but this article definitely caught my eye.

Don't get me wrong, I love Apple. I am a PC and Mac-user, and I do love my white MacBook, along with my iPod - I can't live without these things. However, the fact that these objects,produced from the very same company that made my MacBook and iPod, might explode in my hand does put me on the edge a little. No, I won't hold my dad's iPhone with a pair of tongs and oven mitts, but maybe next time I'll hold it a little farther away from my face. I'd say...maybe at arm's length?


For the nitty gritty scientific details and more information, click here!

Photo Credit: TouchTip

UnLEASH the Child Within!

Have you ever seen parents holding child-leashes as their toddlers attempt to run around in circles at the mall? I do believe I despise those child-leashes. Some may say that these leashes are security measures so that the little children cannot run wild or injure themselves. Some parents who have triplets, or multiple children, find it easier to connect all of them with leashes when going out for a walk. Regardless of the reasons given, I still don't find these leashes humane.

Leashes are for dogs, cats, maybe even little bunnies - but not, children. If your child is that out-of-control, maybe it's high time to sit him/her down and have a talk, or maybe this would be the opportunity to teach your child a lesson in good behavior. I know that toddlers can be very out of control and hard to manage, I have two little sisters. However, I really don't think it's necessary to tie your 4-year-old son or 3-year-old daughter to a leash when you're out shopping for milk at the grocery store. There are several different tactics that can be used to keep order and discipline in your household when in public.

How would you like it if you look back on your child's photo album and there are hundreds of cheerful photos of your family at the amusement park, but your poor child is held back on a leash while in line for the Teacup ride at Disneyland? I'm not so sure this feeling would make you smile and laugh.

So, next time you feel like you're going to go insane because your toddler won't stop running around, don't pick up the leash...Unless you're going for a walk with your dog, of course.

1 x 1 = 1. 25679 x 31456 = ??

As we get older, it's important to keep exercising our brains. At age 16, and still in high school, I am forced to constantly utilize my brain in everyday math problems and chemistry equations. However, for the elderly, or for people who just want to prevent Alzheimer's Disease and other forms of dementia, stimulating the brain little by little daily can be tiresome. These brain teasers can range anywhere from simply brushing one's teeth with the non-dominant hand, to practicing math equations and spelling words on a Nintendo DS on the airplane.

For 75-year-old Albert Clay, his daily brain exercise consists of multiplying pairs of 5-digit numbers in his head. I don't know about you, but the most I can multiply in my head is probably the normal times table - the highest I can go up to at this point is basically 15 times 15 (which is 225). How is it possible that Mr. Clay can multiply numbers such as 25679 x 31456? Which, according to my calculator, is 807,758,624! Clay's method can be learned for $33 - How to Multiply Any Number by Any Number in Your Head.

I wish I could do that kind of math in my own head...maybe it'd help me pass Pre-Calculus this year.

Click here for more information.

Take a Chill Pill, Yeah Yeah?

If you didn't know, the quote "Take a chill pill, yuhhh yuhhh" comes from the MadTV character Miss Swan. How do I know this? My school adores this woman's comedic accent and odd humor.

Do you have an older sibling who all your teachers just happened to know because this sibling was their previous star student, or your coach's star athlete? Or perhaps, Aunt Jane and Uncle Bob always happen to mention, "Oh, your sister always knew how to bake a mean pie," or "Oh, your brother could catch a good-lookin' fish." Well, I can't say I know the feeling of being in someone's shadow, because I am the oldest in my family (lucky me), but I know one person who must strongly dislike standing in a shadow - Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

With her husband, former President Bill Clinton, just returning from a successful trip to North Korea to free the two journalists, Secretary Clinton seemed to be quite annoyed when she was asked to give her husband's opinion of a Chinese loan to Congo. According to Yahoo! News, she told the student, "I am not going to be channeling my husband."

I, for one, can understand how frustrated she must be to be asked about her husband's opinion, rather than hers, at her own press conference. She did, afterall, stand in former President Clinton's limelight for eight years! It's time for the Mrs. Clinton to be in the spotlight! ...Right?

For more information, click here or here.


To watch the Miss Swan video where she says, "Take a chill pill!" click here!

Off With Their Heads!

In the classic Lewis Carroll novel, Alice in Wonderland, the infamous Queen of Hearts would shout a mere, "Off with their heads!" and her next victim would be immediately executed, just because she had no other idea what to do with these people. Is this the solution to the 21st century problems of overpopulation?

Throughout the years, there have been several cases of overpopulation - whether it be humans or animals. Since I just got back from my trip to Sydney, Australia, I was looking into some interesting articles about Australia, and what do you know, I find an article discussing camel population.

Apparently, Australia is home to a vast amount of camels in its region. These camels are harmful to the natural environment as they eat much of the vegetation and scare the locals when hunting for water. According to Yahoo! News, the population doubles "every nine years"! Camels can grow up to seven feet tall and can even weigh up to 2000 pounds! That's a lot of weight. Therefore, the Australian governments have decided to spend millions of dollars to hunt down these camels and minimize the population. However, this solution may only be temporary? How many camels can you really kill? What makes you so certain they won't just repopulate in the next several decades? Nothing is permanent, but can Australia really afford to spend another $16 million (U.S.) when the population starts to increase again?

Poor camels, it's not their fault they breed rapidly and have large bodies!

Is it right to just kill these animals to help prevent damages and protect the people living in camel-territory? Send in your thoughts!

Traveling Blogger

Hello readers! I am currently in Sydney, Australia (so if you're in the San Jose, California - area, I'm about 17 hours ahead of you time-wise). After an agonizing 14-hour plane ride, I'm finally here!

Of course, being myself, I can't help but listen to the local news here. As I was listening to the television news this morning, I heard that a 14-year old teenage girl's rape admittance was aired on the radio show, Kyle and Jackie O show. There is a "Lie-Detector" segment of the show and a young girl's mother volunteered her daughter and herself, in order to find out whether the daughter was sexually active, along with attempting to discover whether the 14-year-old was involved with drugs (etc.). The mother was previously aware of the girl's rape story from a couple months ago, but she wanted to know if her daughter was in any other way involved in sexual relationships. Instead, the girl was forced to re-admit to being raped when she was twelve on a public radio station. The pour girl must feel so embarrassed knowing that her own mother would publicly humiliate her in such a way. Even though the mother may argue that it was for her daughter's own good, did it really need to go so public as to be put on a radio show? What do you think?

E-mail me at wwatcher21@yahoo.com and give me your opinion!

For more information, click here.

Charity: Water

I would just like to call your attention to this organization called Charity: Water. Go to their Homepage for all the details, fun facts, and ways you can donate! The founder of this organization, Scott Harrison, visited my high school near the end of the school year and I never got a chance to make a blog about it. Charity: Water is an organization that I find very interesting. The creatives ways in which it has been able to raise such large amounts of money from an idea that began as such a small and simple concept, is amazing in my opinion. I bought my own wristband to contribute, but there are many other ways to get involved!

As requested by a friend on the Harker newspaper staff, if you have a Facebook account, please go here and vote for charity: water in order for it to win a $10,000 donation!