Bell Ringer! Dec. 17, 2012

The tragic events on Friday, December 14 2012 have left many in the nation grieving over the loss.

http://www.cnn.com/2012/12/14/us/connecticut-school-shooting/index.html

This article gives a very detailed description of the events that took place on Friday. It starts by giving brief information of the gunman's history and the victim count. 20 children, mostly 6-7 and 6 adults were killed, including the principal and the school psychologist. This particular article really focused on the supposed gunman and what all concerned him throughout the day. This article did talk about the fact that Adam murdered his mother in their home and that the three guns found at the scene were all registered in his mother's name.

http://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/12/18/6-year-old-connecticut-shooting-victim-died-in-arms-teacher-aide-family-says/

This article was specifically about a young boy named Dylan Hockley, 6 years. Dylan was a special needs student at Sandy Hook elementary and had a very loved teacher, Mrs. Murphy; with whom he died in the arms of. In the lines of bullets, this brave teacher held and protected Dylan as best as she could. They ended up dying together and Dylan dying in his beloved teacher's arms. Dylan's parents have shared their gratefulness towards Mrs. Murphy for being with their son.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-connecticut-school-shooting-victims-20121216,0,5491415.story

This article was focused more on the parent's point of view of the shooting. Many said that they are not sure as to whether they will be sending their kids back to school anytime soon. Sandy Hook elementary has rumors of not reopening, because of the tragic events. It was found out that Adam has hundreds of rounds of ammunition, which could have killed pretty much every child in the elementary school, so police are saying that this could have been a lot worse.

Shooting in Connecticut elementary school

Earlier today, at around 9:30-9:40, two gunmen attacked an elementary school in Connecticut and ended up killing 27 people (18 kids) along with the principal and school psychologist. One gunman was pronounced dead, but the status on the other is unknown. Police flooded the scene and the children were evacuated and relocated to a safer facility. Some kids were seen to have been leaving the school building bloodied, not known to be injured, but bloodied. Parents came and got their kids and the school is under a lock down and under intense investigation. The nearby hospital is also under a lock down in order to care efficiently for some of the students who were taken there after the shooting. The actual number of victims is still being investigated as is the other gunman. I think it's completely sick for someone to do this in general, but with kids especially. It's frustrating for these people to sometimes get away with this, so I hope they get the other gunman and really make him pay for life. If capital punishment was still in affect he should be the first in line for this. Makes me sick to think about. The families are in my prayers.

Bell Ringer! Dec. 14, 2012

Recently in Florida, a guy sold his last name online to the highest bidder. The former name "Sadler" was up for grabs, as the guy said his mother was getting a divorce and he would cease to have any need for that last name, but he also needed money, so why not. The bidding ended on December 13th and the name went to the highest bidder for $45,500. Of course, many legal things will have to be changed for this man in order to get all of his legal papers and documents changed in the system. Some people have a problem with him doing this, but he thinks it's completely fine with it and plans to probably keep selling stuff on self made sites.

Bell Ringer! Dec. 13, 2012

The army is now dealing with volunteers who are extremely too overweight to enlist. With our nation right now being a major "fat" problem, its a no brainer that our nation's army will soon be fat too. Obesity is the leading cause for people to be turned down by the army now, with numbers still growing. In 2007 116 troops were declined from joining the army because of their weight; now, 1625 people have been turned down in the first 10 months of this year. I definitely think its a problem today that the army is losing volunteers because of weight, but at the same time I'm not surprised it's happening. Our nation right now is a fat nation and if something isn't done it will only get worse.

Bell Ringer! Dec. 12, 2012

On Tuesday, in Sissonville, WV a gas line leak went up in flames on interstate 77. The fire was massive and burned at least four homes along with melting the pavement and guardrails. At least five other houses have external fire damage, but no one was really home on the day of this explosion; many were at work. All the surrounding hillsides and land was on fire, and burned for a while without any let up. Tomblin did have to say that the heat from the explosion was so hot that it actually cooked the pavement and turned it to tar. Accidents happen and I'm glad no one was really hurt. Hopefully the interstate can be cleaned up.

Bell Ringer! Dec. 11, 2012

The Fiscal Cliff is the newest discussion topic, as the dates are dwindling for Obama and senators to decide what to do and when. Last minute is one thing, but have the potential to push the date back three times is something else. They are hoping to have the amount in by Dec. 21..if not then then bu Jan 1st..if not then, then by Jan 3rd..then who knows. If this does not get taken care of, then the process will have to start completely over, and no one wants that to have to happen. The majority is hoping that they get this decided by the 21st.

Bell Ringer! Dec. 10, 2012

in Portland, Oregon, two boys, ages 7 and 11 tried to carjack/ rob a 22 year old woman while she was waiting in her truck for other family members. She said the boys approached her and showed her the gun they had; she still refused to get out of her truck, so then the boys demand her phone and money. The woman then drove off and police came and got the boys, because they are so young they could not be taken into custody, so they were returned to their families. I think this happening is really an awful thing when you think about it, because these boys were so young; just goes to show you what the society is becoming. On the other hand i keep getting this mental picture of these little boys telling a grown woman to give up her money and phone, it seems unreal and no one would ever think it would really happen.

Bell Ringer! Dec. 7, 2012

In New York on December 6th, a man was killed in a subway train accident. This man was involved in a confrontation and physically fell into the train tracks. Spectators watched as this tragedy happened with no one offering to help, instead, people watched with cell phones out recording the event and taking pictures. After the even happened, doctors tried to revive him with, of course, no success. I think it's really messed up how people could just watch this man about to get hit and not at least try to help. I couldn't imagine seeing that and pulling out my cell phone to take pictures, how awful are people going to get. You have to think, what if it was a family member of yours who was down on the tracks; doesn't make sense to me.

Bell Ringer! Dec. 6, 2012

The Grammies are coming up soon and Mrs. Michelle Obama has been nominated for her story about vegetables and why healthy food on the table is important. She was up against Ellen and Rachel Maddows and Janis Ian. How convenient for the first lady. I don't know when the Grammies are, but I guess a lot of important people are going to be there and its going to be a big deal. I have never watched the Grammies, so I really don't know what it's all about, but Good luck to Michelle. Clinton was also nominated and has already won stuff as has Hilary Clinton.

Bell Ringer! Dec. 3, 2012

Alright, so..these five US schools are passing this thing where they will add up to 300 more hours of school learning class time into their schedule in hopes to make US schools better and get US school scores higher and in global competing range. Basically we need to be smarted, because our education is lower than a bunch of other country's education rates. Everyone else is out there winning stuff and we're just here, sitting in our debt and being lazy. I think its ultimately a good idea to increase the class time, but then again I wouldn't be too happy about it if it were my school.

Bell Ringer! Nov. 30, 2012

These articles wee each very disturbing, however, my videos wouldn't load and i didn't feel like messing with it. So, first, this sorry excuse for a mother posts a picture of her teenage daughter naked! Who does that, and it never said why the mom did this, but it said it was policy to not share motives. I think some motives should be shared, I'd really like to know what possessed this woman to post a naked pic of her daughter, who's a minor.

Next, video wouldn't load, but in Florida, Jacksonville, a teenager was shot in their car because his music was too loud? Really stupid reason to shoot someone, but obviously in today's society its typical, which is really sad.

Last, but not least, a mother is accused of murder and being investigated when her 3 year old child was found dead in a trash bag at a recycling joint. She needs to be locked up forever.

Society is completely messed up and parents aren't parents and it's only going to get worse.

Bell Ringer! Nov. 29, 2012

President Obama had Romney over for lunch today and I'm glad he did, it shows that he wants his help and opinions with stuff, ya know he does. Hope it went well for them and that they had a good time. It said that they might be releasing a photo of how it wewnt, but the lunch would be held in the dining room with closed doors.

Bell Ringer! Nov. 28, 2012

    Powerball is all the talk and with tonights drawing  millions have already been spent in tickets from many vrious places including the US, District of Columbia, and the Virgin Islands. The powerball amount is up to an unbelievable 500 million, the highest its ever been...ever! Sales officials are expecting a great increase in customers today as the drawing is tonight. Although the odds of winning the powerball are about 1 in 175 million, many people are still shelling out their 2$ and plus for as many powerball tickets as they can get.

If I won the powerball I would FIRST buy a house, a nice house...a reallly nice house that would sufice for me and a couple others if needed. I would use a lot of it for college expenses and make sure college would be paid for before I even started going. I would buy a car, something nice but practical still and do a lot of traveling. I would buy a few vacation houses and just switch all the time.

Bell Ringer! Nov. 27, 2012

Charity people are kind of worrying if this years donations are going to be enough, or even close to all the giving that was done in 2007. 2007 has been the highest giving year ever since the great recession and people are just now beginning to feel more secure in their giving with the election and storm over with. I think this will be a lower giving year in general because of how terrified of tax raises everyone is, which I don't blame them.

Bell Ringer! Nov. 26, 2012

Currently in Germany and Poland and mainly in the UK there are these things called "baby boxes" which are these box compartments that are attached to hospitals kinda how laundry shoots are I guess. When a woman comes along who has an unwanted baby, she can go to a local hospital and drop it in the baby box. The baby box is incubated and and alarm sounds in the hospital two minutes later to signal a baby has been left. Now, some people think this is a good thing, because it gives the woman a chance to give the baby a better life as opposed to just leaving it on the side of the road..or killing it or something. Others think its a bad idea, because its saying to the mother, "Go ahead and just leave your unwanted baby, that's perfectly ok, just run away from the problem and go out and make more." I can't decide who's side I'm on, the boxes are good and bad and I think before they're used in the US the system needs to be worked out more.

Bell Ringer! Nov. 15, 2012

Will Obama cut the budget and keep Congress on his side? That's the main question now with elections over and Obama back in the Oval Office for sure. He's been saying forever that he's going to lower the budget for the nation and what not, but I doubt it. I don't think he's done really anything over the four previous years that he's been in office. He's going to want to incorporate more of his personal views and rules and systems until no one has a say in really anything they do. I don't know if these four years will prove to be any different, but hopefully they are and hopefully things will turn around and we can start getting out of debt!

Bell Ringer(s)!! Nov. 14, 2012

Oh the election, and how it was won..makes me very disappointed and pretty disgusted with American society and how blind the majority seems to be. Obama won..and is president..again..heaven help us, but it was a very close race. So Obama had all these factors that were more in his favor than Romney's like gender, age, ethnicity, etc., and because of that his victory was seemingly inevitable. From the time Ohio checked in as being for Obama I have been declaring shenanigans on the entire thing, because I don't think he won fairly and theres proof that multiple states have tried to rig the voting machines. I think the government knew all about it and it was a fixed and unfair race.

Bell Ringer(s)!! Nov. 14, 12

So this pregnant lady ran over her husband with their family SUV..because he didn't vote in the presidential election. Well, in her defense, she is pregnant and that means crazy hormones running rapid through her body. Some ladies handle this better than others, but in this case the lady was not handling it well at all. Her husband is in critical condition at the hospital and I don't know whats going on with her, other than being crazy. Obviously she is very concerned with the future of America, aren't we all, and she wanted everyone to be just as concerned.

Bell Ringer! Nov. 13, 2012

I think being a "prepper" is really strange honestly. I can understand wanting to be prepared, but i mean 700 pounds of flour?? Really? I know he's just concerned with the safety of his family, but that's a big extreme I think. He's convinced that terrorists would love to attach with nuclear weapons, which they probably would, but he also said smallpox would go just as easy. I think he's freaking out a bit too much and it's gotta be miserable, everyday, waiting and thinking about a terrorist attack, that's no life to live, especially when you're a dad and husband and have immediate responsibilities. I'm just sayin' that I would have called it quits after about 10 pounds of flour.

Bell Ringer! Oct. 25, 2012

Alright, so now with the election still going but in the last stretch of it, Obama is playing the trust card against Romney. He's trying to make it seem like he really cares about trust and honesty when he's the one who has proven to be dishonest and untrustworthy for the past four years! Obama, like I've said is really sweating the election and wants to do anything he can to try to move up in the polls...hes taking a lot of cheap shots in hopes to sway the voters away from Romney. As a future voter, theres nothing Obama can do now to sway me, because unlike Romney, he has a four year record of not holding up his side of the deal.

Bell Ringer! Oct. 24, 2012

Alright so now Obama is starting to sweat a little and is finally realizing that yes, he just might lose...what a shame...now, with only a couple weeks left of the campaign he wants to sound all wonderful for the people and...nicely....asking for money, a donation..the president shouldn't be asking the people for money in such a way he is. If you donate 5$ to the Obama campaign you are automatically entered in a raffle that on election night, will allow you to be apart of the whole shebang in Chicago...with! free room and board and transportation from him...sounds pretty low.hes just worrying now that people will actually see how he is..nothing new

Bell Ringer! Oct. 23, 2012

So the DMV wants to spend all this money and hire all these people to make way for the REAL federal ID thing they're trying to put into action. the extra costs will average to be about 1.4 million and I don't think it's necessary, especially from a DMV. The DMV is not the place t have a federal ID made and handled, its a place for your car and driving and what not. They tried to get me to sign up for the federal ID thing and the woman couldn't even tell me what it was really, so I don't think it's necessary. they can try a new thing that won't cost us 1.4 million on top of all the other money we all owe.

Bell Ringer! Oct. 22, 2012

Gambling? Do you have a problem? Is the Greenbrier casino getting played? People have started gambling at the casino without staying over night; they are getting there via day bus tours. The head management is claiming that the Greenbrier is now losing money overall because people aren't staying the night and paying a bigger amount  that they probably are when they gamble the day away. People now saying that the Greenbrier casino is getting played because of the lack of or not meeting potential profit it being taken advantage of. Should day buses be able to run? I think day tour buses should be able to run, but you shouldn't be able to play in the casino unless you are staying at the hotel.

Bell Ringer! Oct. 19, 2012

Obama was on the Daily Show talking about the debates and a clip about his progress was shown. Jon showed two pictures of Obama and Michelle. The first picture was of Obama and Michelle standing far apart looking disappointed while the second one was of Michelle dressed in pink with her arms open getting ready to give Obama a hug. Obama said that the first debate didn't go quite as planned and that the issues will continue to be fixed in the next debate. I thought it was pretty funny that both Michelle ans Anne both wore pink at the second debate.

Bell Ringer! Oct. 18, 2012

Obama and Romney, the five things that we learned from Thursday's debate. Romney, basically doesn't know what hes talking about and Obama just talks and talks and never syas anything. I can't wait til the last debate so this can all be over with and I can go vote! I enjoy watching the debates and think they're very important to have, but no debate is going to change my mind in November, because of how the last four years have been with Obama; it's time for a change. It's obvious that Obama won the most recent debate, but theres still one more.

10 Video Clips

1.) Kennedy vs. Nixon:
     this debate is probably one of the most memorable in history. Alomst everyone could be able to tell you something about the Kennedy Nixon debate and election. During this debate, I agree a lot with the people who say that Kennedy only did better because he looked better. When this debate was heard on the radio, both candidates seemed to have done an equal job as far as getting the issues accross and speaking about what they hope to do as president, but if you were watching this ebate, it's obvious that Nixon wasn't looking his best, nor did he feel completely up to par. I do think that Kennedy got a lot of votes from women, mainly because of he looked and more importantly how he looked compared to Nixon.

2.) Ford vs. Carter:
     During this memorable debate, Ford was asked a question about Russian domination on Eastern Europe to which he answered in a confusing way. Many people felt that his answer did not add up in means of being clear and concise with correct information. Their minds were easily changed after hearing his response and they were convinced that he did not have knowledge of what was truly happening over seas, specifically in the Eastern sections or Europe.

3.) Reagan vs. Carter:
     As many could say Carter was "bashing" Reagan for something had had gone sour in the past, it served as a point where Carted wanted to point fingers in order to try to put blame on Reagan. This is a tactic that is very much used today and is effective. We can see that Reagan however shook off Carters words by making it humerous and pointing out that thats what Carter was attacking him about over and over as if to say that he has nothing else to be upset with or concerned about.

4.) Reagan vs. Carter:
     Reagan had a beautiful and meaningful ending in this debate when he stated to the people, when you vote, as yourself if youre better off now than you were four years ago. To many people this was a no brainer that yes in fact Reagan had made it a lot better for people in those four years. When in a debate its eat or be eaten, you have to say anything that will get you the votes and I think Reagan was very smart in saying what he did; it got everyone thinking.

5.) Mondale vs. Reagan
     I enjoyed watching this clip as it really showed Reagan's humorous side. When asked if he thought he had what it takes to be able to go days on end with no sleep during some sort of potential national crisis he answered very confidently that his age would not be an issue. He then cracked a joke on his opponent saying he would not exploit the youth and inexperience of his opponent. By saying this he wanted to make it perfectly clear that his age had nothing to do with how he'd run the country.

6.) Dukakis vs. George H.W. Bush
    

Bell Ringer! Oct. 16, 2012 (2)

Electoral votes is the topic today and as of right now, Obama is in the lead with 201, 270 are needed to win. Many people are saying that Obama has this election in the bag while others are convinced that it will be neck and neck the whole way, as I do. The great state of Ohio is the tossup state as of right now, meaning it does not have a clear candidate in which it will mainly support up to election time. I think that these candidates need to come to WV, even though they probably wont since WV only has 5 electoral votes, but still that's five more than you had before you came maybe. Right now Romney happens to be in the lead in the poll statistics. This election can go anywhere from Obama again to Romney bringing in new ideas and plans.

Bell Ringer! Oct. 16, 2012 (1)

With the election coming up soon, many people are getting involved in the two candidates and trying to make up their minds. The news is now saying that both the men are millionaires. . .what a surprise. Of course both Obama and Romney are millionaires, why else would they be running for president. I think one way most people are deciding is by looking at the past four years and questioning if they want the same thing again,or think things will change, or if they'd like to try something completely different. Many people are saying that the election gives us choices, or is supposed to, so they are seeing the similarities between the two running candidates. I am pro- Romney, mainly because of how the past four years have been. Obama says he needs four more years to make stuff happen, but I don't think he deserves four more years if he hasn't done anything with the first four.

Bell Ringer! Oct. 15, 2012

No child left behind is was an organization put into the public school system by Bush that was used to help better education and raise scores. It set a kind of rank in schools to not leave a student "behind", meaning you work with the child to make sure they aren't left behind in the curricular world. Obama, I think, in recent years has done away with the no child left behind policy, therefore having schools incorporate their "old" ways to help the kids that need more attention. Recently, more and more students are making known their opinion on how they want an education revolution, which may include bringing back some of the things that no child left behind incorporated. I thought the idea of no child left behind was good, but I'm not so sure how successful and beneficial it was to the kids who needed it.

Bell Ringer! Oct. 12, 2012

The vice Presidential debate is what everyone is talking about and unfortunately i did not watch it. I've heard a lot about it and read about it though. I've heard everything from Vice President Biden won to it was a neck and neck draw; it's hard to decide what to believe. I do however think that both the Vice President and Ryan did a fantastic job when it came to making their candidate proud; I believe both were satisfied with the results. it has been said a lot that Ryan interrupted Biden a lot, but who's to say Biden never interrupted Ryan..I think you should do whatever it takes to get your point across, it shows how serious and passionate about it you are. I'm going to think that it was a pretty close draw.

Bell Ringer! Oct. 11, 2012

I don't think that the house or Supreme Court focuses on race as a big issue right now, however I do see it a lot in today's society. Many can say that they do judge and that they are racist, and to a point, they are. Its sad that these things still have to be an issue even today in 2012. We're just not ready for a lot of the things that have already happened.

Bell Ringer Oct. 10, 2012

I think its ridiculous that the Obama campaign is making such a big deal about the Sesame Street thing. When Mitt mentioned it in the debate, it was used in the context for an example of how he would do things and where he would make some money cuts. I don't know why everyone is making such a big deal about it. Money cuts have to come from somewhere Big Bird or not. If the democratic party wants to keep bashing Mitt on this issue, as if they couldn't have found a better more important one, then that's their decision. Big Bird is the least of our worries and anyone who would be willing to potentially put the economy second to a TV show has some priority issues.

Bell Ringer! Oct. 9, 2012

Recently, a company went through a big case about what information can and can't be put on social networks by the company's workers. There are set rules that the employees have to follow, meaning they can't put something negative about their place of work and expect everything to be OK. I can see why people would be upset at this, because it is a free country and yes you should be able to post whatever you want, but not when it effects a lot of people in a negative way.

Bell Ringer! Oct. 8, 2012

     Jet Blue giving away round trip tickets out of the country..yeah its true. I guess its a good marketing campaign, but it's kind of out of the ordinary. If you wake up on November 7th on the losing side of the election, supposedly, you will be able to completely leave the country for a while and come back if you want. I guess this will make the company better known, but they wont be making a profit because they are giving these tickets away. Doing this is a good idea though.. a lot of people say they're leaving the country if so and so wins, so lets see what they do.

Bell Ringer! Oct. 4, 2012

Debate report- CNN

     The CNN report basically said that Romney was the clear winner and that he showed the best traits within most of the subjects discussed. They talked a lot about how body language played a big part, especially in the first debate, where they said Romney seemed more at ease and engaged in conversation, while Obama would not look at Romney, nor keep his head up a lot of the time while listening. They said Romney appeared more confident being on stage and that since Romney had participated in nearly 20 prior debates within the states he was a lot better delivering tone and energy. Obama, however, was described as being detached from the audience and the conversation topics. Because Obama ha not been in a debate in four years, it showed on stage with Romney. The debate has really "changed the game", and improved the campaign support for Romney, who's supporters were ever worried about him before the debate, but were proven wrong by the end and convinced that Romney could indeed hold his own with the president.


Debate report- FOX

     The more commonly known as republican news base also did a cover of the debate and of course glorified Romney as being the obvious winner all around. They hit on a lot of the same points as CNN did saying things like his energy was great and more lively that Obamas, his connection with the audience was dead on, and that he could definitely stand up against the president and give him a run for his money. Many people now are expecting a big change in the race to take place thanks to Romney's big win in the first debate.

*Venn diagram separate*

Bell Ringer(S)! Oct. 3, 2012

Link 1- Pa Voter ID:

It is now being said that in states like Pa, it is becoming necessary that if you want to vote in election time you must have a photo ID present. It is being made to have a photo ID for better proof of who you are. A voters card is not all you need anymore in Pennsylvania. Maybe this will become more common throughout the US as time goes on, but for right now I don't think they should make it permanent because its never had to be this way, it will prove to be better or worse.


Link 2- Names telling what party:

Clues in your name are being said to have a big effect on what political party you're for, says Chris Wilson, reporter. Multiple numbers of clues in your name tell your party, what group of people you support, possible the amount estimate of money you donate, etc. My name, however, was not anywhere near that list, so I had to go with my middle name, Marie, and it said that name was more affiliated with the democratic party. I'm not sure if I believe the name thing, but I do believe that the way you're raised has a great affect on your political choices.

Bell Ringer! Oct. 2, 2012

With the election coming up quickly, word is traveling that Romney's Supreme Court (if he is elected) Will be one completely different from our current one. He is wanting to replace people, do away with Obama's Obamacare reform and  start improving the society he so desperately wants to help. His plans will focus more on people as individuals incorporating more responsibility on all the social classes. The Supreme Court should first want to uphold all that the Constitution stands for, no matter who is in office. It's hard to say, especially at this point, who will win, but whoever ends up in office needs to know what they're doing.

Social awareness Issue: Bill

                   
Chloe McVicker
7th Pd.
10-2-12


                Senate Bill 19673- Recycling

LAST ACTION: NA

SUMMARY: In order to help the economy within the states with spending costs on consumer products, recycling will be/ should be incorporated into the public's everyday life; more so than it already is. In order to increase the recycling percentages throughout the nation, recycling bins should be placed at at least one corner of EVERY store, shopping plaza, restaurant, rest stops, etc. Anywhere that public activity is very high there should be the option to recycle trash. On many accounts I have heard the excuse, "I would recycle more if it was more convenient for me." In making sure that there is a recycling bin literally around almost every corner throughout all public areas, recycling percentages will increase, thus resulting in what we hope to be a decrease in manufacturing costs for more consumer products (bottled water, soda, etc.). As of right now an estimated 40% to 50% of Americans recycle, that's only half. In putting this bill into action, I am estimating a recycling increase of 37% to 40% withing the next twelve months. In order to make this happen, we will be requesting an average 5% of every one's taxes every two years. The money joined from every one's taxes will get the recycling facilities and keep them updated and taken care of in general. Doing this will definitely pay off in the following years and prove to be a major improvement to us all.

LEAD SPONSOR: Chloe McVicker

SPONSORS: NA

STATUS: Pending

SUBJECT(S): Environmental Improvement

ACTIONS:
     Introduced in Senate

Bell Ringer! Oct.1, 2012

It would seem as though the TSA has been slipping in our American airports (New Orleans and Newark). Reportedly, so far the TSA has now let two loaded handguns through security and searches and on to their planes. Maybe security isn't as strict as we thought it was. It is illegal to have any kind of weapon go on to an airline of any kind, but every now and then something slips. One enraged congressman stated that "hundreds" of prohibited items get through screen security daily. I think that they need to be more accurate with knowing what does and does not go on to an airplane. It's unsettling to everyone and you never know what someone may do.

Bell Ringer! Sept. 28, 2012

Should College Students Be Allowed to Have Concealed Weapons??

NO:

1.) College students are just armatures who are not rained to handle a concealed weapon.

2.) Many college students are immature and take part in risky behaviors such as drug use, partying and alcohol consumption.

3.) The chances of a gun actually saving a life on campus in an emergency situation is extremely slim.

4.) Some students are not mentally stable enough to understand and carry a weapon.

5.) Many students can't handle the responsibility yet.

6.) Half of the students will go to school with their weapon and not be educated on how to use it properly.

7.) Carrying a weapon is dangerous in itself, accidents happen all the time.

8.) If a trained authority professional accidentally injured innocent bystandards, a college student would be ten times worse.

9.) It is allowing students to carry something that can take lives, like what happened at Columbine.

10.) Eventually no one will be able to be trusted.

YES:

1.) It is a good form of self protection, especially if youre away from home.

2.) It will allow you to feel more secure and confident when on campus.

3.) You never know what people are going to do, they're crazy.

4.) You could potentially save a life.

5.) Violence occurrs all the time on campus, with a weapon you can protect you and your things/ property.

6.) Banning guns on campus is said to just encourage students to break the rules.

7.) Gun control classes are avaliable for anyone, and you can obtain your liscence.

8.) People need to be protected away from home.

9.) People should be able to protect whats theres in a place where robbery happens a lot.

10.) Guns are for good people who believe in protection and rights.

Social Awareness Issue

Rt. 1 Box 211-1
Volga, WV 26238
September 27, 2012


Ms. Oprah Winfrey
Chairwoman, CEO and CCO of the Oprah Winfrey Network,
The Oprah Show
Golden Boulevard
Montego CA, 98546

Subject: Human Trafficking Awareness

Dear Ms. Winfrey:

Throughout the following you will realize that I am just a normal face that you may see in the most ordinary places such as, the local super market, a Saturday night movie, or in my place of work trying my best to contribute to a dangerously corrupt society. You will also find that I am not entirely average after all; my past is full of sorrow, secrets, and things that will stay with me in the darkest part of my mind until the day I die. Almost one year ago I was a victim of human trafficking for six months. I have lived through the most unimaginable fear one could ever experience and have now realized just how precious a free life really is.

Human trafficking has the potential to affect anyone, (man, woman or child) at any given time, unfortunately for me I happened to fit the grade perfectly. Last year I was twenty three years old and what they would say, "sure to make a profit." I was out with a good friend of mine at a local Chinese restaurant, one we had been to many times. I don't remember leaving because I never did, my drink had been spiked with "the date rape drug," and I woke up in a warehouse with multiple other women; this entire ungodly operation was kept strictly underground.

From that point on the next six months of my life would be nothing but loneliness, fear and complete power constantly being ruled over me. I was drugged by needle injection once or twice every one to two days, physically abused in beatings when seen as being insubordinate, sexually abused almost daily by forced prostitution, occasionally rented for labor jobs and eventually relocated to a bigger operation in Paris, France. I was bought, sold, or rented to basically anyone who was willing to pay.

Nearing the end of those six months, only by the grace of God, was I given the opportunity to physically escape from the house. I have never experienced a feeling like the one that was pulsating through my body as I was running the broken streets of Paris looking for anyone's help. I eventually found an authority figure who got me in contact with some of the American authorities who had been searching for me thanks to my patient, hopeful, lifesaving family. I was one of the few who made their own second chance.

I come to you with my story in high hopes that you will read over these lines carefully and want to support me in my awareness projects for this merciless disease that thrives on the innocent. I am not ashamed of my experiences, nor am I embarrassed to tell what I went through. I share my story to one day ensure that every person knows that this happens and that it could happen to anyone, a child, a friend, a parent..ANYONE. My past pleas for help have gone unheard, but it is still my goal that one day this plague will be erased from society and that no human being will ever have to live through what I did.

Sincerely,

 

 

Chloe Marie McVicker

 

Bell Ringer! Sept. 27, 2012

     As of right now, healthier foods are becoming a permanent part of school lunches. Not only are healthier foods a big part of lunch, but also the portion size. A group of hungry students and teachers created a parody video to the some "We are Young," but titled it "We are Hungry." This video showed the reactions and negative effects of high school students still being hungry after lunch because they are given the same portions as elementary school kids. In doing this video the students and some teachers spoke out in a perfectly OK way about how they feel about the lunch issue at their school.

Bell Ringer! Sept. 26, 2012

     Today, groups of retired military leaders are getting together in hopes to decrease the rate of obesity in children and high school students. They are complaining and saying that kids today eat way too much junk food and don't get anywhere near enough exercise. These groups want junk foods to be completely banned from schools everywhere.I think that it's a good move to not give junk food at schools, but more than that why can't they just give you more healthy and actual good food and allow you to still have some junk food.

Bell Ringer! Sept. 25, 2012

     I think that giving the plan B or morning after pills to high school students has the potential to be a really good investment. It was said that the girls have the choice to opt out of the program. Girls shouldn't need the morning after pill at 14 years old but there are some people who do put themselves in negative situations and actually will need it. They want to keep students in school instaead of dropping out because they get pregnant. I think they should offer it but you can decide to decline.

Political Ideology

Main Street Republicans

11% of the public

What They Believe

• Highly critical of government
• Strongly opposed to abortion and same-sex marriage
• Less enamored of business than the Staunch Conservatives
• Generally negative about immigrants
• Mostly opposed to social welfare programs
• Confident that hard work pays off
• Supportive of government efforts to protect the environment

Who They Are

• 76% are Republicans
• Most are homeowners (84%); 51% have a gun in the household
• Predominately non-Hispanic white (88%)
• Highly religious (91% say religion is a very important part of their lives)
• Concentrated in the South and Midwest
• Nearly one-quarter (24%) follow NASCAR racing
• Most say they have enough income to lead the life they want

www. http://www.people-press.org/typology/quiz/?src=typology-report

        High Conservative                                                                                                         

http://www.people-press.org/political-party-quiz/

 

Your political compass

Economic Left/Right: -4.75
Social Libertarian/Authoritarian: 1.85

http://www.politicalcompass.org/test

Your answers suggest that you are a conservative. The yellow star shows generally where you fall within the conservative region of the Nolan Chart.

http://www.nolanchart.com/survey.php

Your PERSONAL issues Score is 0%

Your ECONOMIC issues Score is 70%

According to your answers, the political group that agrees with you most is...

Conservative

Conservatives tend to favor economic freedom, but frequently support laws to restrict personal behavior that violates "traditional values." They oppose excessive government control of business, while endorsing government action to defend morality and the traditional family structure. Conservatives usually support a strong military, oppose bureaucracy and high taxes, favor a free-market economy, and endorse strong law enforcement.

http://www.theadvocates.org/quiz


You Are 24% Capitalist, 76% Socialist


 You tend to be quite wary of businesses, especially big business.
While you know that corporations have their place, you tend to support small, locally owned shops.
As far as the rich go, you think they're usually corrupt and immoral.  

http://www.blogthings.com/areyouasocialistorcapitalistquiz/

                 You Are 70% Conservative, 30% Liberal

 Social Issues: 50% Conservative, 50% Liberal

Personal Responsibility: 75% Conservative, 25% Liberal

Fiscal Issues: 50% Conservative, 50% Liberal

Ethics: 75% Conservative, 25% Liberal

Defense and Crime: 100% Conservative, 0% Liberal  

 

http://www.blogthings.com/howliberalorconservativeareyouquiz/

 

Bell Ringer! Sept. 24, 2012

     It's ridiculous how much Obama has to twist what Romney says in order to try to make himself look good, but that is what politics is in a nutshell. I don't think that Romney was actually "attacking" 47% of people who already have voted for Obama. I think Romney was only stating the facts. Obama starts out with 47% of the vote automatically because those are the people who A: like milking the system, or B: who actually need it, unfortunately, those who milk the system give the ones who need it a bad name and may actually out weigh them. Everyone needs to not get offended so easily. Romneys right, some people are just lazy and don't want to have to work for anything and Obama's campaign is all about keeping and taking care of pretty much everyone who doesn't want to work or be an active part of society.

Bell Ringer! Sept. 21, 2012

     I think the van apology/ proposal is an excellent way to get the point across..kind of. Most things like that today are done through texting or a phone call or a social site, but this was creative and more thoughtful. It's obvious the mystery man thought about how to do this in a way that would grab attention, especially Linda's, along with everyone else's. On the other hand, I can see how this may upset certain people, hope Linda likes it.

Right to Privacy Sept. 19, 2012

2.) Freedom of: Religion, Speech, Assembly, Press, and Petition.

3.)      In today's completely digital society it seems a lot harder to keep your privacy with a lot of things. There are numerous social sites that, for one, allow you to expose anything you want whenever you want and in some cases, anyone in the world almost can access that information. Computers and social sites aren't the only things that make this current time one for all to see, newer and better recording devices, microphones, cameras, "bugs", chips, everything has been invented that could ever steal information or invade privacy. Technology isn't the main thing to blame here though, people who know what to do and what they need to get certain information also know how work the new technology sometimes for very negative purposes; it can tempt people. With all the technological advances and the way more and more people are thinking now, there wont be any privacy left alone anywhere.

4.)     The Patriot Act of October, 2001, is an acronym (USA PATRIOT) that stands for  Uniting (and) Strengthening America (by) Providing Appropriate Tools Required (to) Intercept (and) Obstruct Terrorism Act. This act was put into play by President Bush on October 26, 2001. The Patriot Act was initially one of the responses to the 9-11 terrorist attacks on the Twin Towers. This act basically gave  law enforcement agencies' gathering of intelligence within the United States; expanded the Secretary of the Treasury’s authority to regulate financial transactions, particularly those involving foreign individuals and entities, and many other changes to the system. In a nutshell, this act gave more "power" to the big people in charge and allowed them to be more in depth with the people they deal with; they can get in your business and you can't do a whole lot about it because of the Patriot Act put in to play and the fact that no one wants another incident like 9-11. Better be safe than sorry.

5.) I do in a way think that the Patriot Act does indeed violate the first amendment in a couple different ways, but I also think it's necessary. I don't like the fact that it gave so much more "personal power" to the people in charge, but on the other hand, if they weren't like that and had that not started we could have had another attack or something worse. I think that its either in violation of or defending the first amendment and that's just depends on the person at hand. It's a scary thought to know that the government or certain agencies can get information on you and essentially learn everything about your privacy in a matter of minuets, but for all the potential terrorists out there, I'm glad it exists and that we have it; it must be used in the right way though.

6.) http://www.webmd.com/parenting/teen-abuse-cough-medicine-9/teen-privacy

7.)http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2012/apr/23/chris-huhne-partner-accuses-daily-mail

Bell Ringer! Sept. 20, 2012

     After months of spying on his wife, (ex- wife now) Joe Zang is caught and being sued by his ex- wife. Joe, for whatever reason, set up numerous video recordings and microphones in their home and disguised them as wall outlets. Joe admitted he was guilty in actually spying on his wife, and family, but said he did not use any of it negatively. Cathy Zang is suing because she feels it was a huge invasion of her personal privacy in her own home, and the fact that other than the in home recordings, Joe had a temporary GPS put in her car and often got into her e-mail. I agree with Cathy 100%, it is a very big invasion of privacy whether its a husband or a family member or whoever, it doesn't matter; Joe is just crazy and clearly has some issues.

Bell Ringer! Sept. 19, 2012

     I think the pictures were a big invasion of privacy. If, however, the photographer hadn't zoomed in for half a mile on a private estate and got a pic of her topless on accident, then it wouldn't be a big deal..but yeah it was an invasion of privacy.

Founding Fathers/ Citizenship tests

1. Answer the following question: Why is there a constitution day and what mandated it?
- We celebrate or at least remember the signing of The Constitution on September 17th in hopes to be more aware of what all went in to he people their rights and the law of the land, their land. Had it not been for the Constitution we would not be living how we are now, therefore we need to be thankful and remember what happened on September 17th. It was mandated to in fact not only remember but to honor the actual signing of the Constitution.
2. Could you pass the US citizenship test....find five links on the Internet and take the quizzes and post the links and your scores.
-I could maybe pass 2 out of 5??http://www.800citizen.org/us_citizenship_test/citizenship_practice_test/  - 5/5 100% pass

http://www.blogthings.com/couldyoupasstheuscitizenshiptestquiz/results/?result=7  -7/10 passed!

http://usnews.nbcnews.com/_news/2012/07/03/12546953-could-you-pass-the-us-citizenship-test?lite - 8/20 60% Fail

http://www.history.com/interactives/citizenship-quiz - passed no score given

http://www.legallanguage.com/quiz/immigration/ -6/16 Fail

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

http://new.civiced.org/framers.

 Step 1:

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

 Step 2:

 Review the nine correct podcasts and complete the information required in the box adjoining each clue. You must also choose two additional facts about your delegate.

Step 3:

 

Sharing your information, your teacher will direct your group on how to share the information you have gathered about your delegates with the class.

 
Constitution Day Scavenger Hunt with 60-Second Civics

 

Teacher Resource 3: Clue Sheet

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

 

Clue:

This delegate took notes at the Philadelphia Convention.

Name: James Madison

State: Virginia

Age/Year of Birth: Born- 1751

Two Additional Clues:
*One of the main "spokesmen" at the Constitutional Convention
*Known as the "Father of the Constitution"

 

Clue:

He refused to sign the Constitution.

Name: Oliver Ellsworth 

State: Connecticut

Age/Year of Birth: Born 1745

Two Additional Clues:
*Did not agree with the terms
*Was not an avid supporter

 

Clue:

This delegate was the head of the Virginia delegation to the convention.

Name: James Madison

State: Virginia

Age/Year of Birth: Born 1751

Two Additional Clues:
*Played as a leader in the convention (s)
*Held a very influencial role with everyone

 

 Clue:

He practiced in law in Williamsburg.

Name: John Blair

State: Virginia

Age/Year of Birth: Born 1732

Two Additional Clues:
*Born in Williamsburg
*Went on to be the founder of William and Mary
 

 

Clue:

He studied medicine in Scotland.

Name: James Wilson

State: Pennsylvania

Age/Year of Birth: Born 1741

Two Additional Clues:
* He was an active part in the signing
* He was an avid speaker

 

 Clue:

This Framer emancipated his slaves in his will.

Name: Thomas Jefferson

State: Virginia

Age/Year of Birth: Born- 1743

Two Additional Clues:
*Was an owner of slaves
*Known to disagree with slavery in later years

 

 Clue:

He was responsible for the Judiciary Act of 1789.

Name: Oliver Ellsworth

State: Connecticut

Age/Year of Birth: Born - 1745

Two Additional Clues:
*Apointed Chief Justice later on
*One of Connecticut's best lawyers

 

 Clue:

He was the chairman of the Committee on Style.

Name: William Samuel Johnson

State: Connecticut

Age/Year of Birth: Born- 1727

Two Additional Clues:

* Very good at his work in public services
* Refused to participate in first continental congress

 

 

Clue:

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

Name: Roger Sherman

State: Massachusetts

Age/Year of Birth: 1721

Two Additional Clues:

* He attened nearly every session of the conventions
* He was very good at reading

 

Clue:

He studied law in Philadelphia.

Name: Jared Ingersoll

State: Connecticut

Age/Year of Birth: 1749

Two Additional Clues:
* A newly confirmed patriot
* Graduated from Yale and moved to Philadelphia

 

Clue:

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

Name: Gunning Bedford, Jr.

State: Delaware

Age/Year of Birth: Born 1747

Two Additional Clues:
* Went to the college of New Jersey
* Was studying the same field as Madison

 

Clue:

He served as the first postmaster general of Wilmington.

Name: Benjamin Franklin

State: Massachusetts

Age/Year of Birth: 1706

Two Additional Clues:

* Responsible and very smart
* Excellent working skills

 

 Clue:

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

Name: John Dickinson

State: Pennsylvania

Age/Year of Birth: Born- 1732

Two Additional Clues:
* Did not agree with the concept of Independance
* His name is not on the document

 

Clue:

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

Name: Robert Morris

State: Pennsylvania

Age/Year of Birth: Born - 1771

Two Additional Clues:
* One out of two who voted against but proceeded to sign
*His name is on the list of signers

 

 Clue:

He was born in Connecticut.

Name: Abraham Baldwin

State: Connecticut

Age/Year of Birth: Born- 1754

Two Additional Clues:
* Raised in Connecticut
*Delagate for Connecticut