Comments for Kautzman's AP GO PO Blog http://pkautzman.edublogs.org Mt. Spokane High School AP Government & Politics Sat, 05 Dec 2009 21:42:40 -0500 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.8.2 hourly 1 Comment on BLOG RECOVERY CE Week #13: “Old Clemency May Be Issue for Huckabee” Dec. 1st by Carley Ross http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/12/01/blog-recovery-ce-week-13-old-clemency-may-be-issue-for-huckabee-dec-1st/comment-page-1/#comment-7861 Carley Ross Sat, 05 Dec 2009 21:42:40 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1230#comment-7861 What I Learned: I learned that Mike Huckabee could have (technically) prevented the murder of four policemen in Parkland, Washington. He granted an astounding amount of clemencies in his home state, and this specific case has come back to ruin his political career. From this article, I now know not to be surprised when Huckabee does not run for president. What I Think: Such tragedies like this should be learned from to prevent further repetition; such action includes taking ignorant people like Huckabee out of office. Not all people that go to prison or juvie are “bad people” per say, but with the exception of those truly innocent of a crime, everyone is there for a reason: a sentence they must serve. Whatever moron would subscribe to the “I can’t help it, I had a bad childhood” card should not be allowed to operate a car, let alone hold public office. I shudder to think that Huckabee can justify--in his own mind--the release of murders and rapists on the basis of personal letters. I sure hope he will tune the channel he is subscribed to after this tragedy, and I am glad that it has enough impact to cross him off the 2012 ticket. What I Want To Know: With Huckabee gone, what other Republican nominees are forecasted to be on the ballot? Connection: The invisible primary—something that Huckabee has very well lost. His “pre-campaign campaigning” is sure to come to a complete end after the murder of four people by one of his previous (and numerous) clemencies. What I Learned:

I learned that Mike Huckabee could have (technically) prevented the murder of four policemen in Parkland, Washington. He granted an astounding amount of clemencies in his home state, and this specific case has come back to ruin his political career. From this article, I now know not to be surprised when Huckabee does not run for president.

What I Think:

Such tragedies like this should be learned from to prevent further repetition; such action includes taking ignorant people like Huckabee out of office. Not all people that go to prison or juvie are “bad people” per say, but with the exception of those truly innocent of a crime, everyone is there for a reason: a sentence they must serve. Whatever moron would subscribe to the “I can’t help it, I had a bad childhood” card should not be allowed to operate a car, let alone hold public office. I shudder to think that Huckabee can justify–in his own mind–the release of murders and rapists on the basis of personal letters. I sure hope he will tune the channel he is subscribed to after this tragedy, and I am glad that it has enough impact to cross him off the 2012 ticket.

What I Want To Know:

With Huckabee gone, what other Republican nominees are forecasted to be on the ballot?

Connection:

The invisible primary—something that Huckabee has very well lost. His “pre-campaign campaigning” is sure to come to a complete end after the murder of four people by one of his previous (and numerous) clemencies.

]]> Comment on BLOG RECOVERY CE Week #13: “Old Clemency May Be Issue for Huckabee” Dec. 1st by Sammi Pace http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/12/01/blog-recovery-ce-week-13-old-clemency-may-be-issue-for-huckabee-dec-1st/comment-page-1/#comment-7860 Sammi Pace Fri, 04 Dec 2009 07:35:17 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1230#comment-7860 A. Mike Huckabee, back in 2000, granted clemency to Maurice Clemmons, who at the age of 16 went on a crime spree that landed him 100 plus years in prison. Clemmons is the suspect of killing four Tacoma, Washington, police officers in a coffee shop. Huckabee has pardoned more convicts than the last three governors of Arkansas combined, making his choices of clemency and his front running in the Republican party clash quite nicely. In this justification, he talks of his belief in redemption and the fairness of the Arkansas justice system. Clemmons applied for clemency in 2000, writing a letter saying that he had learned the error of his ways, and Huckabee commuted his sentence. Clemmons was charged again with robbery, but the charges were dropped from too much time between when the warrant was issued and when they finally got around to it. Huckabee’s pardon of Clemmons is compared to a Willie Horton moment. B. I think that Huckabee has a screw loose if he thinks that the Republican party is going to give him their support should Clemmons be found guilty. Even if Clemmons isn’t guilty, it’s an important issue to discuss. I mean, really, who all wouldn’t Huckabee pardon if he’s so devout in his beliefs of redemption and Christianity? Should he be up for President, the nation needs to know the kind of people our potential president elect is taking out of prison, where they’ve been placed for specific reasons. I, personally, think it’s a no-brainer on Huckabee’s stance in the presidential race as Republican nominee. C. There’s a piece in the article from Huckabee’s website stating that “it will be the result of a series of failures in the criminal justice system in both Arkansas and Washington State” should Clemmons be found guilty. How would it be the failure of Washington State’s criminal justice system if it’s Huckabee that set an Arkansas criminal free? Why did Huckabee still grant Clemmons clemency even after his robbery offense back around 2001? D. Connection/Extension: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/12/01/huckabees-clemmons-pardon_n_375020.html “For a politician considering another run for the White House, Clemmons could become Huckabee's Willie Horton.” A. Mike Huckabee, back in 2000, granted clemency to Maurice Clemmons, who at the age of 16 went on a crime spree that landed him 100 plus years in prison. Clemmons is the suspect of killing four Tacoma, Washington, police officers in a coffee shop. Huckabee has pardoned more convicts than the last three governors of Arkansas combined, making his choices of clemency and his front running in the Republican party clash quite nicely. In this justification, he talks of his belief in redemption and the fairness of the Arkansas justice system. Clemmons applied for clemency in 2000, writing a letter saying that he had learned the error of his ways, and Huckabee commuted his sentence. Clemmons was charged again with robbery, but the charges were dropped from too much time between when the warrant was issued and when they finally got around to it. Huckabee’s pardon of Clemmons is compared to a Willie Horton moment.
B. I think that Huckabee has a screw loose if he thinks that the Republican party is going to give him their support should Clemmons be found guilty. Even if Clemmons isn’t guilty, it’s an important issue to discuss. I mean, really, who all wouldn’t Huckabee pardon if he’s so devout in his beliefs of redemption and Christianity? Should he be up for President, the nation needs to know the kind of people our potential president elect is taking out of prison, where they’ve been placed for specific reasons. I, personally, think it’s a no-brainer on Huckabee’s stance in the presidential race as Republican nominee.
C. There’s a piece in the article from Huckabee’s website stating that “it will be the result of a series of failures in the criminal justice system in both Arkansas and Washington State” should Clemmons be found guilty. How would it be the failure of Washington State’s criminal justice system if it’s Huckabee that set an Arkansas criminal free? Why did Huckabee still grant Clemmons clemency even after his robbery offense back around 2001?
D. Connection/Extension:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/12/01/huckabees-clemmons-pardon_n_375020.html
“For a politician considering another run for the White House, Clemmons could become Huckabee’s Willie Horton.”

]]> Comment on BLOG RECOVERY CE Week #13: “Old Clemency May Be Issue for Huckabee” Dec. 1st by Ype Kingma http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/12/01/blog-recovery-ce-week-13-old-clemency-may-be-issue-for-huckabee-dec-1st/comment-page-1/#comment-7859 Ype Kingma Fri, 04 Dec 2009 07:18:53 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1230#comment-7859 A: What I knew: I knew a fair amount due to the discussion we had today in fourth period. I knew that Huckabee had granted clemency to almost one thousand prisoners, I knew the statistic about it being twice as much as his three predecessors. I knew that the man had shot and killed the officers, and that Huckabee had been in trouble before because of another man who had raped a woman, and I knew about the ad campaign that had been run before. B: what I learned: I did not learn much, once again due to the amount I already knew from today discussion in class. Not to say that reading this article was a waste though, I did not know that he read each clemency petition personally. I find that an admirable trait, he had to be a busy man, and he found time to read every single petition personally, it showed that he cared about the people who sent them, that he respected the prisoners and truly believed in the power of redemption. I also did not know that Mr. Clemmons, the man who shot the police officers, would not have been eligible for parole until 2012, and I did not know what he had been convicted for originally, the series of burglaries. I also thought it was funny, his response to the letter he received against his tendency to grant pardons, though I did not understand the part about good luck on his attempt to cut down on his caffeine intake. C: What I want to know: I want to know the results of the trail on Mr. Clemmons when it is finished, and I would like to know if Mr. Clemmons was the only person who was granted pardon by Huckabee who returned to the life of crime. D: Connection: This is a link to a youtube video of the Willie Horton attack ad: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Io9KMSSEZ0Y, enjoy. A: What I knew: I knew a fair amount due to the discussion we had today in fourth period. I knew that Huckabee had granted clemency to almost one thousand prisoners, I knew the statistic about it being twice as much as his three predecessors. I knew that the man had shot and killed the officers, and that Huckabee had been in trouble before because of another man who had raped a woman, and I knew about the ad campaign that had been run before.

B: what I learned: I did not learn much, once again due to the amount I already knew from today discussion in class. Not to say that reading this article was a waste though, I did not know that he read each clemency petition personally. I find that an admirable trait, he had to be a busy man, and he found time to read every single petition personally, it showed that he cared about the people who sent them, that he respected the prisoners and truly believed in the power of redemption. I also did not know that Mr. Clemmons, the man who shot the police officers, would not have been eligible for parole until 2012, and I did not know what he had been convicted for originally, the series of burglaries. I also thought it was funny, his response to the letter he received against his tendency to grant pardons, though I did not understand the part about good luck on his attempt to cut down on his caffeine intake.

C: What I want to know: I want to know the results of the trail on Mr. Clemmons when it is finished, and I would like to know if Mr. Clemmons was the only person who was granted pardon by Huckabee who returned to the life of crime.

D: Connection: This is a link to a youtube video of the Willie Horton attack ad: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Io9KMSSEZ0Y, enjoy.

]]> Comment on BLOG RECOVERY CE Week #13: ” President Obama gives go-ahead to implement Afghanistan strategy” Nov. 30th by Sammi Pace http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/30/ce-week-13-president-obama-gives-go-ahead-to-implement-afghanistan-strategy-nov-30th/comment-page-1/#comment-7858 Sammi Pace Fri, 04 Dec 2009 07:08:39 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1226#comment-7858 A. Although we already went over this in class with Hardball as well, I learned that President Obama has ordered a surge of 30,000 troops into Afghanistan. Obama has been briefing other world leaders of his new strategy in Afghanistan, and Hillary Clinton will be heading to Europe this week to discuss with NATO leaders. Obama has made it clear that “this is not an open-ended commitment.” Obama delivered marching orders with Robert Gates, David Patraeus, James Jones, Mike Mullen, Gen. James Cartwright and Rahm Emanuel. The distinctions that have been made are that the troops are moving so that the Taliban does not provide a safe haven for al Qaeda and that there will be benchmarks for training Afghan security and elimination government corruption. B. While I learned more in class than I did about this, I think that this is the best strategy that has been considered. Obama obviously knows what he’s doing, and it seems as though he hasn’t let anyone hamper his decisions, specifically with the Afghanistan surge. In order to pull out of Afghanistan, something has to be accomplished, and it’s tough to say what has been accomplished so far. Obama has kept to his promises, despite what many people, especially Democrats, are beginning to believe. Being one of the many Americans with a family member fighting overseas and another enlisted, all I can do is hope to hope that the troops will pull out as soon as possible. It will be in the country’s best interest to support Obama’s plan and wait to see what results are yielded. C. Are any other countries going to be involved with the new surge? Which parts of Afghanistan are stable and which aren’t? D. Connection/Extension: http://features.csmonitor.com/politics/2009/12/03/gates-afghanistan-surge-could-require-more-than-30000-troops/ Obama’s plan echoes that of President Bush’s, with the surge of about 30,000 troops to Iraq in 2007. The need for more troops is raising concern. A. Although we already went over this in class with Hardball as well, I learned that President Obama has ordered a surge of 30,000 troops into Afghanistan. Obama has been briefing other world leaders of his new strategy in Afghanistan, and Hillary Clinton will be heading to Europe this week to discuss with NATO leaders. Obama has made it clear that “this is not an open-ended commitment.” Obama delivered marching orders with Robert Gates, David Patraeus, James Jones, Mike Mullen, Gen. James Cartwright and Rahm Emanuel. The distinctions that have been made are that the troops are moving so that the Taliban does not provide a safe haven for al Qaeda and that there will be benchmarks for training Afghan security and elimination government corruption.
B. While I learned more in class than I did about this, I think that this is the best strategy that has been considered. Obama obviously knows what he’s doing, and it seems as though he hasn’t let anyone hamper his decisions, specifically with the Afghanistan surge. In order to pull out of Afghanistan, something has to be accomplished, and it’s tough to say what has been accomplished so far. Obama has kept to his promises, despite what many people, especially Democrats, are beginning to believe. Being one of the many Americans with a family member fighting overseas and another enlisted, all I can do is hope to hope that the troops will pull out as soon as possible. It will be in the country’s best interest to support Obama’s plan and wait to see what results are yielded.
C. Are any other countries going to be involved with the new surge? Which parts of Afghanistan are stable and which aren’t?
D. Connection/Extension:
http://features.csmonitor.com/politics/2009/12/03/gates-afghanistan-surge-could-require-more-than-30000-troops/
Obama’s plan echoes that of President Bush’s, with the surge of about 30,000 troops to Iraq in 2007. The need for more troops is raising concern.

]]> Comment on BLOG RECOVERY CE Week #13: “Science, faith aren’t mutually exclusive” Nov. 30th by Sammi Pace http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/30/ce-week-13-science-faith-aren%e2%80%99t-mutually-exclusive-nov-30th/comment-page-1/#comment-7857 Sammi Pace Fri, 04 Dec 2009 06:37:08 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1224#comment-7857 A. In this article, I learned that 51 percent of scientists say they believe in a God while 41 percent do not, and that scientists today are no more or less likely to believe in God than they were 100 years ago. This is in contrast with 87 percent of scientists believing in evolution over time. In Pew surveys, 95 percent of American adults say they believe in a God or a higher power, with only 32 percent of the American public believing in evolution. I learned that why religion and evolution are viewed as so incompatible is the possibility of our first scientists, Stephen Jay Gould and Stephen Hawking, being atheists and agnostics, but this is also in contrast with the former head of the Human Genome Project, Francis Collins, an evangelical Christian that also believes evolution to be a scientific fact. I learned that Darwin most likely lost his faith after losing his favorite child, not after being introduced to the theory of evolution. B. Evolution and religion are most definitely compatible. With the straight facts of science that is evolution, religion is the basis of faith. One can place one’s faith on a bowl of ice cream on a hot summer day and know that it works out. Evolution and science are as close to opposites as they could be, as are heat and the chilled ice cream, and yet the only thing that separates this moral debate is where belief lies. How else could there be an explanation for the amount of scientists that believe in both a higher being and evolution, other than suggesting that about 50 percent of scientists are on a lunatic fringe? I had never given thought to a question like this. C. I would like to know what some of the scientists believing in a higher being and evolution have to say about both sides. How did the rift between evolution and religion start in the first place? What is the Human Genome Project? D. Connection/Extension: http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2004/10/1018_041018_science_religion.html “Science without religion is lame; religion without science is blind.” –Albert Einstein Joel Primack, the astrophysicist that co-developed the cold dark matter theory, also believes in God. A. In this article, I learned that 51 percent of scientists say they believe in a God while 41 percent do not, and that scientists today are no more or less likely to believe in God than they were 100 years ago. This is in contrast with 87 percent of scientists believing in evolution over time. In Pew surveys, 95 percent of American adults say they believe in a God or a higher power, with only 32 percent of the American public believing in evolution. I learned that why religion and evolution are viewed as so incompatible is the possibility of our first scientists, Stephen Jay Gould and Stephen Hawking, being atheists and agnostics, but this is also in contrast with the former head of the Human Genome Project, Francis Collins, an evangelical Christian that also believes evolution to be a scientific fact. I learned that Darwin most likely lost his faith after losing his favorite child, not after being introduced to the theory of evolution.
B. Evolution and religion are most definitely compatible. With the straight facts of science that is evolution, religion is the basis of faith. One can place one’s faith on a bowl of ice cream on a hot summer day and know that it works out. Evolution and science are as close to opposites as they could be, as are heat and the chilled ice cream, and yet the only thing that separates this moral debate is where belief lies. How else could there be an explanation for the amount of scientists that believe in both a higher being and evolution, other than suggesting that about 50 percent of scientists are on a lunatic fringe? I had never given thought to a question like this.
C. I would like to know what some of the scientists believing in a higher being and evolution have to say about both sides. How did the rift between evolution and religion start in the first place? What is the Human Genome Project?
D. Connection/Extension: http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2004/10/1018_041018_science_religion.html
“Science without religion is lame; religion without science is blind.” –Albert Einstein
Joel Primack, the astrophysicist that co-developed the cold dark matter theory, also believes in God.

]]> Comment on BLOG RECOVERY CE Week #13: “Promised change isn’t happening” Nov. 29th by Sammi Pace http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/29/ce-week-13-promised-change-isn%e2%80%99t-happening-nov-29th/comment-page-1/#comment-7856 Sammi Pace Fri, 04 Dec 2009 06:03:26 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1222#comment-7856 A. In this article, I learned that health care legislation is moving into back rooms of the Senate and not on the floor, because Americans are, for one, evenly divided on what to do, and for two, lobbying and money have pulled out in front of public opinion. I learned that the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the nation’s unions have already planned on funding advertising for shaping voters’ perceptions next year. The OFA is the rechristened Obama organization, Organizing for America, which lobbied this last fall by sending out “thank you” cards to those who voted for health care reform. Obama wants to change the phenomena in American politics of interest groups having more power than the general public. B. I think that, like with the Afghanistan situation, President Obama knows what the country needs and is focusing on passing a bill that will provide just that, whether the people are informed of the what’s and why’s or not. Obama will definitely not be able to change the system, but he has so far had a very different way of running things. It’s interesting that the Chamber of Commerce and unions are already aiming ads at voters. The show of what is assumed the people want to see versus their reactions is quite, for the lack of a better word or phrase, leading. It’s easy to see just how much the media plays into politics, now that we’ve studied it more thoroughly. It’s good to know that Obama’s trying to pull through on his campaign promises, as far as health care is concerned. C. I would like to know, if it’s even possible, just a general outline of what the President is planning on changing in health care reform. When will health care reform finally hit the Senate floor instead of staying behind closed doors? D. Connection/Extension: http://www.cbsnews.com/blogs/2009/12/02/politics/politicalhotsheet/entry5867789.shtml It’s interesting to me that the Senate is planning on continuing this debate through Christmas. This is just a nice view of why and what’s happening with the stall on voting on the health care bill. A. In this article, I learned that health care legislation is moving into back rooms of the Senate and not on the floor, because Americans are, for one, evenly divided on what to do, and for two, lobbying and money have pulled out in front of public opinion. I learned that the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the nation’s unions have already planned on funding advertising for shaping voters’ perceptions next year. The OFA is the rechristened Obama organization, Organizing for America, which lobbied this last fall by sending out “thank you” cards to those who voted for health care reform. Obama wants to change the phenomena in American politics of interest groups having more power than the general public.
B. I think that, like with the Afghanistan situation, President Obama knows what the country needs and is focusing on passing a bill that will provide just that, whether the people are informed of the what’s and why’s or not. Obama will definitely not be able to change the system, but he has so far had a very different way of running things. It’s interesting that the Chamber of Commerce and unions are already aiming ads at voters. The show of what is assumed the people want to see versus their reactions is quite, for the lack of a better word or phrase, leading. It’s easy to see just how much the media plays into politics, now that we’ve studied it more thoroughly. It’s good to know that Obama’s trying to pull through on his campaign promises, as far as health care is concerned.
C. I would like to know, if it’s even possible, just a general outline of what the President is planning on changing in health care reform. When will health care reform finally hit the Senate floor instead of staying behind closed doors?
D. Connection/Extension: http://www.cbsnews.com/blogs/2009/12/02/politics/politicalhotsheet/entry5867789.shtml
It’s interesting to me that the Senate is planning on continuing this debate through Christmas. This is just a nice view of why and what’s happening with the stall on voting on the health care bill.

]]> Comment on BLOG RECOVERY CE Week #13: “Old Clemency May Be Issue for Huckabee” Dec. 1st by Bree Ferris http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/12/01/blog-recovery-ce-week-13-old-clemency-may-be-issue-for-huckabee-dec-1st/comment-page-1/#comment-7855 Bree Ferris Fri, 04 Dec 2009 05:56:03 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1230#comment-7855 A. Mike Huckabee gave clemency to a felon who had more than 100 years in prison. This man is the same one that is a main suspect for the four killings in Tacoma. This tragedy has put a lot of focus on Mr. Huckabee and his many pardons and clemencies thruought his time as govenor. The reports say this is two times more than his three predecessors. Most likely this has killed any potential he had for running as the republican presidential nominee. B. It's ridiculous how many pardons and clemencies Huckabee was allowed to give. There has to be limits on things like this, it's just way too much power in one guy's hands. I think it's a good thing he'll get crushed before he runs for president because I definitely don't want someone who's let 1000 criminals free as president. Presidents must be strong headed and think logically not emotionally which this guy clearly doesn't do. There's a reason that these criminals were sent to jail and it's not fair to society that one person has the power to override what the justice system has declared. Criminals need to remain in prison. C. What are the limits on pardons and clemencies that governors or any government official can give? There must be some sort of limit or requirments, I mean these are dangerous criminals we're talking about. Connection/ Extension: " The post prison transfer board, the process, and I'll be very brief about this, but to understand: They recommended to me, as governor for his commutation, which didn't release him, it simply cut his sentence to 47 years. That would give him parole eligibility. That was the commutation. I'm responsible for that, and it's not something I'm happy about at this particular moment," Mike Huckabee said in defense when asked why he would do such a thing. A. Mike Huckabee gave clemency to a felon who had more than 100 years in prison. This man is the same one that is a main suspect for the four killings in Tacoma. This tragedy has put a lot of focus on Mr. Huckabee and his many pardons and clemencies thruought his time as govenor. The reports say this is two times more than his three predecessors. Most likely this has killed any potential he had for running as the republican presidential nominee.
B. It’s ridiculous how many pardons and clemencies Huckabee was allowed to give. There has to be limits on things like this, it’s just way too much power in one guy’s hands. I think it’s a good thing he’ll get crushed before he runs for president because I definitely don’t want someone who’s let 1000 criminals free as president. Presidents must be strong headed and think logically not emotionally which this guy clearly doesn’t do. There’s a reason that these criminals were sent to jail and it’s not fair to society that one person has the power to override what the justice system has declared. Criminals need to remain in prison.
C. What are the limits on pardons and clemencies that governors or any government official can give? There must be some sort of limit or requirments, I mean these are dangerous criminals we’re talking about.
Connection/ Extension: ” The post prison transfer board, the process, and I’ll be very brief about this, but to understand: They recommended to me, as governor for his commutation, which didn’t release him, it simply cut his sentence to 47 years. That would give him parole eligibility. That was the commutation. I’m responsible for that, and it’s not something I’m happy about at this particular moment,” Mike Huckabee said in defense when asked why he would do such a thing.

]]> Comment on BLOG RECOVERY CE Week #13: “New York State Senate Votes Down Gay Marriage Bill” Dec. 3rd by Sammi Pace http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/12/03/blog-recovery-ce-week-13-new-york-state-senate-votes-down-gay-marriage-bill-dec-3rd/comment-page-1/#comment-7854 Sammi Pace Fri, 04 Dec 2009 05:35:27 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1241#comment-7854 A. Although I learned about this briefly through the Hardball video in class today, I learned that the New York state senate voted 38-to-24 to shoot down legislation allowing same-sex marriage. I learned that about 51 percent of New Yorkers support gay marriage while 42 percent oppose it. I learned that gay rights lobbyists poured about $1 million dollars into trying to pass the measure. I learned that Governor David A. Paterson, Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, Senator Liz Krueger and the Senate Democratic leadership all support gay marriage rights. All but one of the districts within or lying close to the 23rd Congressional District opposed the measure. B. My thoughts are the same as Mr. Paterson’s and Liz Krueger’s. Although I was extremely relieved to hear that Washington State is now recognizing same sex marriages, or civil unions, it still doesn’t rest with me of how the rest of the country besides seven states can still turn heads against same sex marriage. It’s obvious that many of the Senators wishing to vote yes on this measure were politically pressured and didn’t have the nerve to enact what they believe is right for their state and for this country. In the words of Mr. Paterson, “I think if there’d actually been a conscience vote we’d be celebrating marriage equality right now.” I understand and respect the sanctity of marriage, I really do. I do not, however, understand and respect how so many people can rest easily knowing that marriage equality does not exist. C. I would like clarification on how many states have passed referendums restricting marriage to straight couples, and how doing so prevents same sex marriage. What was the ratio of Senators that legitimately opposed the bill to the Senators that initially supported it (before the votes were cast)? D. Connection/Extension: http://www.npr.org/blogs/politicaljunkie/2009/12/new_york_state_senate_rejects.html I found the quote by Democrat Ruben Diaz Sr. of the Bronx on this matter to be quite enlightening. I would like to know where he gets his information. A. Although I learned about this briefly through the Hardball video in class today, I learned that the New York state senate voted 38-to-24 to shoot down legislation allowing same-sex marriage. I learned that about 51 percent of New Yorkers support gay marriage while 42 percent oppose it. I learned that gay rights lobbyists poured about $1 million dollars into trying to pass the measure. I learned that Governor David A. Paterson, Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, Senator Liz Krueger and the Senate Democratic leadership all support gay marriage rights. All but one of the districts within or lying close to the 23rd Congressional District opposed the measure.
B. My thoughts are the same as Mr. Paterson’s and Liz Krueger’s. Although I was extremely relieved to hear that Washington State is now recognizing same sex marriages, or civil unions, it still doesn’t rest with me of how the rest of the country besides seven states can still turn heads against same sex marriage. It’s obvious that many of the Senators wishing to vote yes on this measure were politically pressured and didn’t have the nerve to enact what they believe is right for their state and for this country. In the words of Mr. Paterson, “I think if there’d actually been a conscience vote we’d be celebrating marriage equality right now.” I understand and respect the sanctity of marriage, I really do. I do not, however, understand and respect how so many people can rest easily knowing that marriage equality does not exist.
C. I would like clarification on how many states have passed referendums restricting marriage to straight couples, and how doing so prevents same sex marriage. What was the ratio of Senators that legitimately opposed the bill to the Senators that initially supported it (before the votes were cast)?
D. Connection/Extension: http://www.npr.org/blogs/politicaljunkie/2009/12/new_york_state_senate_rejects.html
I found the quote by Democrat Ruben Diaz Sr. of the Bronx on this matter to be quite enlightening. I would like to know where he gets his information.

]]> Comment on BLOG RECOVERY CE Week #13: “New York State Senate Votes Down Gay Marriage Bill” Dec. 3rd by Bree Ferris http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/12/03/blog-recovery-ce-week-13-new-york-state-senate-votes-down-gay-marriage-bill-dec-3rd/comment-page-1/#comment-7853 Bree Ferris Fri, 04 Dec 2009 04:58:45 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1241#comment-7853 A. The gay marriage bill in New York failed. The vote was 38-24 with Senators who said they would vote in favor of the bill flip-flopping. Many felt political pressure from the electorate fearing that making an unpopular decision could cost them their seat. Though New York is very democratic right now the public still fears we're moving too fast into it. B. It is inevitable that gay rights will pass, look at recent years as the gay rights movement has gained more support. It's going to take some guts from these hesitant Senators and vote for gay rights. Yes, it is a risky move but the fact is that's what it's going to take. Politicians have to worry about their job- I get that- but you can't let that dictate your decision too much. Besides, is it really smart to say you'll vote one way and then vote the other way? You're only angering all those voters who were counting on you and wouldn't that just turn votes away? C. The article said that California passed refferendums limiting marriage to straight couples, I though they passed a law allowing gay marriage? Did the recind that bill or something? Connection/ Extension: It makes sense that even though New York is very democratic that it didn't pass. From what we learned previously, old people are more likely to vote and out number the number of young voters so candidates listen to what they want because they can determine the outcome of an election. Older people are also generally more conservative and grew up in a society where homosexuals were looked down upon so it isn't surprising at all that the Senator's got cold feet and switch their votes in negation of the bill. If they want to get elected again they need to please this particular group of old conservatives and really all the religious people in general who believe in the sanctity of marriage. A. The gay marriage bill in New York failed. The vote was 38-24 with Senators who said they would vote in favor of the bill flip-flopping. Many felt political pressure from the electorate fearing that making an unpopular decision could cost them their seat. Though New York is very democratic right now the public still fears we’re moving too fast into it.
B. It is inevitable that gay rights will pass, look at recent years as the gay rights movement has gained more support. It’s going to take some guts from these hesitant Senators and vote for gay rights. Yes, it is a risky move but the fact is that’s what it’s going to take. Politicians have to worry about their job- I get that- but you can’t let that dictate your decision too much. Besides, is it really smart to say you’ll vote one way and then vote the other way? You’re only angering all those voters who were counting on you and wouldn’t that just turn votes away?
C. The article said that California passed refferendums limiting marriage to straight couples, I though they passed a law allowing gay marriage? Did the recind that bill or something?
Connection/ Extension: It makes sense that even though New York is very democratic that it didn’t pass. From what we learned previously, old people are more likely to vote and out number the number of young voters so candidates listen to what they want because they can determine the outcome of an election. Older people are also generally more conservative and grew up in a society where homosexuals were looked down upon so it isn’t surprising at all that the Senator’s got cold feet and switch their votes in negation of the bill. If they want to get elected again they need to please this particular group of old conservatives and really all the religious people in general who believe in the sanctity of marriage.

]]> Comment on BLOG RECOVERY CE Week #13: “Old Clemency May Be Issue for Huckabee” Dec. 1st by laraestotts http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/12/01/blog-recovery-ce-week-13-old-clemency-may-be-issue-for-huckabee-dec-1st/comment-page-1/#comment-7852 laraestotts Fri, 04 Dec 2009 03:01:45 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1230#comment-7852 A. I knew previously that Huckabee is very strong in his religion, and that he hosts a show on Fox news. I also knew that Huckabee was a possible Republican candidate for 2012, possibly running against Sarah Palin. Both Palin and Huckabee have acting as though they are in the middle of an invisible primary… B. I learned that Huckabee pardoned a significantly larger amount of prisoners than previous governors. He granted more than 1000 requests for clemency! He continuously went against the courts and victims’ families, and listened to his Baptist preacher. I do not think that anyone in government should allow their religious beliefs to corrupt their vision of reality. However, Huckabee’s wrongs are coming backto haunt him. It’s karma! C. Are there any other governors who have granted a significant of requests for clemency? Connection: Republicans generally support a strong law enforcement, and do not think that any criminal should be let off the hook. Because Huckabee would be seeking the Republican office in 2012, he would need to will the support of the Republicans in the primaries and caucuses. I do not think he will accomplish this, because Republicans do not like crime, while Huckabee has proved himself to quickly pardon criminals. A. I knew previously that Huckabee is very strong in his religion, and that he hosts a show on Fox news. I also knew that Huckabee was a possible Republican candidate for 2012, possibly running against Sarah Palin. Both Palin and Huckabee have acting as though they are in the middle of an invisible primary…
B. I learned that Huckabee pardoned a significantly larger amount of prisoners than previous governors. He granted more than 1000 requests for clemency! He continuously went against the courts and victims’ families, and listened to his Baptist preacher. I do not think that anyone in government should allow their religious beliefs to corrupt their vision of reality.
However, Huckabee’s wrongs are coming backto haunt him. It’s karma!
C. Are there any other governors who have granted a significant of requests for clemency?
Connection: Republicans generally support a strong law enforcement, and do not think that any criminal should be let off the hook. Because Huckabee would be seeking the Republican office in 2012, he would need to will the support of the Republicans in the primaries and caucuses. I do not think he will accomplish this, because Republicans do not like crime, while Huckabee has proved himself to quickly pardon criminals.

]]> Comment on BLOG RECOVERY CE Week #13: “Science, faith aren’t mutually exclusive” Nov. 30th by Kevin Danger Yen http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/30/ce-week-13-science-faith-aren%e2%80%99t-mutually-exclusive-nov-30th/comment-page-1/#comment-7851 Kevin Danger Yen Thu, 03 Dec 2009 04:52:51 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1224#comment-7851 What i know/think: Oh gees, I really need to state my opinion before i say anything else. I completely disagree with what the author was trying to convey. Insert- "If a substantial portion of the scientific community is made up of believers, why do so many people think evolution and religion are incompatible?" Before a person can truly answer this question, which was stated in the article, a person must first define a "believer". A believer can be defined as a person who believes a higher power who dictates the actions of their lives, or a believer can be defined as someone who serves a higher power. Back to the article, first off just because a small majority of the scientific community believes in a high power does not mean that evolution and religion belong in the same classroom. Evolution belongs in a science class while religion belongs in possibly a English class. If religion and evolution were to be compatible the first place that it would go would be the schools. Religion and evolution are a still world apart, because of the plain fact that evolution is based on proven face, while religion is in faith and belief because people want to believe. What i learned: I learned that in 1914 42% of the scientific community still had faith in a higher power, while today 51% say they believe in a high power and 41% do not. The 51% of the scientific community which still believes in a higher power was a lot high then i anticipated, but i guess it's depends on what kinds of scientist were asked. What i want to know: What would change if the world of evolution and the world of religion would be compatible? Connection: The world would look differently if evolution and religion were taught under one roof, the United States would just not be the United States anymore if creation was taught in school and the fact that there are a huge number of religions all over the world. This would be a step back for the United States and all of the civil rights acts that were passed. What i know/think:

Oh gees, I really need to state my opinion before i say anything else. I completely disagree with what the author was trying to convey.

Insert-
“If a substantial portion of the scientific community is made up of believers, why do so many people think evolution and religion are incompatible?”

Before a person can truly answer this question, which was stated in the article, a person must first define a “believer”. A believer can be defined as a person who believes a higher power who dictates the actions of their lives, or a believer can be defined as someone who serves a higher power.

Back to the article, first off just because a small majority of the scientific community believes in a high power does not mean that evolution and religion belong in the same classroom. Evolution belongs in a science class while religion belongs in possibly a English class. If religion and evolution were to be compatible the first place that it would go would be the schools.

Religion and evolution are a still world apart, because of the plain fact that evolution is based on proven face, while religion is in faith and belief because people want to believe.

What i learned:

I learned that in 1914 42% of the scientific community still had faith in a higher power, while today 51% say they believe in a high power and 41% do not. The 51% of the scientific community which still believes in a higher power was a lot high then i anticipated, but i guess it’s depends on what kinds of scientist were asked.

What i want to know:

What would change if the world of evolution and the world of religion would be compatible?

Connection:

The world would look differently if evolution and religion were taught under one roof, the United States would just not be the United States anymore if creation was taught in school and the fact that there are a huge number of religions all over the world.
This would be a step back for the United States and all of the civil rights acts that were passed.

]]> Comment on BLOG RECOVERY CE Week #13: “Science, faith aren’t mutually exclusive” Nov. 30th by Russ Zeeryp http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/30/ce-week-13-science-faith-aren%e2%80%99t-mutually-exclusive-nov-30th/comment-page-1/#comment-7850 Russ Zeeryp Thu, 03 Dec 2009 02:19:43 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1224#comment-7850 What I know? Finally a topic I know a lot about. I know about evolution and how it reflect towards the Bible. I know how a great many people believe evolution and region can’t go hand-in-hand. I know this is a very sensitive subject for many. I know studies have been done, as well as human tests. I know a lot more, but this is the basics of what I know. What did I learn? I learned that a great many scientists believe in a higher power or God. I learned that the study of evolution wont turn you away from your religion. I didn’t really learn a lot from this one, but it was fun to read. What do I want to know? I want to know about any human studies that have been done on the human body. I want to know if we can tike our DNA to form us into a super being. Extension: http://www.physorg.com/news177017080.html I used this site to find tests done on Human DNA towards animals. This stuff is truly…interesting, but scary at the same time. It is worth taking a look at. “Two years ago, controversy erupted in Britain after scientists announced plans to create human embryos using empty cow and rabbit eggs. Critics condemned the mixing of human and animal genetic material, though scientists said the embryos would be destroyed after 14 days and would only be used to help them learn how to create human stem cells.” This is something I found that was very interesting. I hope they get the ‘Go-ahead’ for their research. What I know?
Finally a topic I know a lot about. I know about evolution and how it reflect towards the Bible. I know how a great many people believe evolution and region can’t go hand-in-hand. I know this is a very sensitive subject for many. I know studies have been done, as well as human tests. I know a lot more, but this is the basics of what I know.

What did I learn?
I learned that a great many scientists believe in a higher power or God. I learned that the study of evolution wont turn you away from your religion. I didn’t really learn a lot from this one, but it was fun to read.

What do I want to know?
I want to know about any human studies that have been done on the human body. I want to know if we can tike our DNA to form us into a super being.

Extension:
http://www.physorg.com/news177017080.html
I used this site to find tests done on Human DNA towards animals. This stuff is truly…interesting, but scary at the same time. It is worth taking a look at.
“Two years ago, controversy erupted in Britain after scientists announced plans to create human embryos using empty cow and rabbit eggs. Critics condemned the mixing of human and animal genetic material, though scientists said the embryos would be destroyed after 14 days and would only be used to help them learn how to create human stem cells.” This is something I found that was very interesting. I hope they get the ‘Go-ahead’ for their research.

]]> Comment on BLOG RECOVERY CE Week #13: ” President Obama gives go-ahead to implement Afghanistan strategy” Nov. 30th by Russ Zeeryp http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/30/ce-week-13-president-obama-gives-go-ahead-to-implement-afghanistan-strategy-nov-30th/comment-page-1/#comment-7849 Russ Zeeryp Thu, 03 Dec 2009 01:54:50 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1226#comment-7849 What I know? I know we need more help in Afghanistan, and if we can’t get more help we’ve lost. I know most Countries don’t wish to help in this matter. I also know Obama is extremely popular, even though it has greatly fallen, and I know popularity can get you everything. Obama is in the best seat possible to finish the war in Iraq and Afghanistan. What did I learn? Obama is expected to order another 34,000 troops to Afghanistan during the address from the United States Military Academy, though a White House spokesman refused to confirm that figure Monday morning. What do I want to know? I want to know how and why he’s taking these new actions across sea. Is it for popularity, getting the people’s minds off the Healthcare idea, or some greater means. I also what to know if any of the other world leaders are getting anything from this ordeal, and if so what? Extension: I learned, from http://news.google.com/news?q=implement+his+Afghanistan+strategy&oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&um=1&ie=UTF-8&hl=en&ei=LhkXS8i2O4bKsQOw98yxDg&sa=X&oi=news_group&ct=title&resnum=1&ved=0CAwQsQQwAA , that nearly all the powers of the world have troops in Afghanistan. I watched a few videos and learned, from this site and it’s videos, that we’re not just fighting the people but their beliefs. What I know?
I know we need more help in Afghanistan, and if we can’t get more help we’ve lost. I know most Countries don’t wish to help in this matter. I also know Obama is extremely popular, even though it has greatly fallen, and I know popularity can get you everything. Obama is in the best seat possible to finish the war in Iraq and Afghanistan.
What did I learn?
Obama is expected to order another 34,000 troops to Afghanistan during the address from the United States Military Academy, though a White House spokesman refused to confirm that figure Monday morning.

What do I want to know?
I want to know how and why he’s taking these new actions across sea. Is it for popularity, getting the people’s minds off the Healthcare idea, or some greater means. I also what to know if any of the other world leaders are getting anything from this ordeal, and if so what?

Extension:
I learned, from http://news.google.com/news?q=implement+his+Afghanistan+strategy&oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&um=1&ie=UTF-8&hl=en&ei=LhkXS8i2O4bKsQOw98yxDg&sa=X&oi=news_group&ct=title&resnum=1&ved=0CAwQsQQwAA , that nearly all the powers of the world have troops in Afghanistan. I watched a few videos and learned, from this site and it’s videos, that we’re not just fighting the people but their beliefs.

]]> Comment on BLOG RECOVERY CE Week #13: “No Big Cost Rise in U.S. Premiums Is Seen in Study” Dec. 1st by Russ Zeeryp http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/12/01/blog-recovery-ce-week-13-no-big-cost-rise-in-u-s-premiums-is-seen-in-study-dec-1st/comment-page-1/#comment-7848 Russ Zeeryp Thu, 03 Dec 2009 01:29:35 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1228#comment-7848 What I know? I know Healthcare is a system based on helping those who can’t help themselves. What did I learn? Centrist Democrats like Senator Evan Bayh of Indiana, whose votes are vital to President Obama’s hopes of getting the bill approved, was worried that the measure would drive up costs for people with employer-sponsored coverage. I learned the subsidies, the main feature of the bill, would cost the government nearly $450 billion in the next 10 years and would cover nearly two-thirds of premiums for people who receive them. I learned, without subsidies, it said, premiums under the bill would average $5,800 a year for individuals and $15,200 a year for families buying coverage on their own. Under current law, the comparable figures would be $5,500 and $13,100. What do I want to know? I want to know why the President doesn’t just drop Healthcare and move on. Why continue with a project designed to fail. Extension: Health care (often healthcare in American English), is the treatment and management of illness, and the preservation of health through services offered by the medical, dental, complementary and alternative medicine, pharmaceutical, clinical sciences (in vitro diagnostics), nursing, and allied health professions. Health care embraces all the goods and services designed to promote health, including “preventive, curative and palliative interventions, whether directed to individuals or to populations”.[1] The definition of to recognize, tough to define," Albany Times-Union November 12, 2009. Before the term health care became popular, English-speakers referred to medicine or to the health sector and spoke of the treatment and prevention of illness and disease. The social and political issue of access to healthcare in the US has led to public debate and confusing use of terms such as health care (medical management of illness or disease), health insurance (reimbursement of health care costs), and the public health (the collective state and range of health in a population). The public health is related most to economic development and wealth distribution, and health insurance is a business which both provides and restricts reimbursement for healthcare itself in the event of disease, or in access to of medical healthcare in individual health-seeking, -promoting or -maintaining behaviors. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Health_care What I know?
I know Healthcare is a system based on helping those who can’t help themselves.

What did I learn?
Centrist Democrats like Senator Evan Bayh of Indiana, whose votes are vital to President Obama’s hopes of getting the bill approved, was worried that the measure would drive up costs for people with employer-sponsored coverage.
I learned the subsidies, the main feature of the bill, would cost the government nearly $450 billion in the next 10 years and would cover nearly two-thirds of premiums for people who receive them.
I learned, without subsidies, it said, premiums under the bill would average $5,800 a year for individuals and $15,200 a year for families buying coverage on their own. Under current law, the comparable figures would be $5,500 and $13,100.

What do I want to know?
I want to know why the President doesn’t just drop Healthcare and move on. Why continue with a project designed to fail.

Extension:
Health care (often healthcare in American English), is the treatment and management of illness, and the preservation of health through services offered by the medical, dental, complementary and alternative medicine, pharmaceutical, clinical sciences (in vitro diagnostics), nursing, and allied health professions. Health care embraces all the goods and services designed to promote health, including “preventive, curative and palliative interventions, whether directed to individuals or to populations”.[1] The definition of to recognize, tough to define,” Albany Times-Union November 12, 2009.
Before the term health care became popular, English-speakers referred to medicine or to the health sector and spoke of the treatment and prevention of illness and disease. The social and political issue of access to healthcare in the US has led to public debate and confusing use of terms such as health care (medical management of illness or disease), health insurance (reimbursement of health care costs), and the public health (the collective state and range of health in a population). The public health is related most to economic development and wealth distribution, and health insurance is a business which both provides and restricts reimbursement for healthcare itself in the event of disease, or in access to of medical healthcare in individual health-seeking, -promoting or -maintaining behaviors.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Health_care

]]> Comment on BLOG RECOVERY CE Week #13: “Science, faith aren’t mutually exclusive” Nov. 30th by Jeremy Urann http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/30/ce-week-13-science-faith-aren%e2%80%99t-mutually-exclusive-nov-30th/comment-page-1/#comment-7847 Jeremy Urann Thu, 03 Dec 2009 01:16:55 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1224#comment-7847 I learned. It’s interesting to hear the percentages of scientists who believe in god or a higher power because, as a society and personally, religion is often disassociated from science. This begs the question, “Why?” because 51% of scientists do put their faith or at least acknowledge a higher influence. Although the scientific field is split almost evenly in regards to religion, there was an immense gap between them and the general public when it was a question of evolution. Being that 87% scientists believe in evolution and only 32% of the public see this as truth, you wonder who is right-something that I did not nor can learn from this article. I know. For me, it’s an intriguing dilemma. Evolution or simply concise creation? Recently, I’ve put more emphasis on evolution as the most probable path of humanity-though I cannot simply eliminate our quick introduction as an alternate option. I know that I don’t know. I wish I did but I have never read anything that persuaded me either way, though I did enjoy glancing at the statistical evidence in support of either option. I yearn to learn. I would like to know the main irrefutable evidence for both sides of the argument beyond the basic. The nitty-gritties if you will. Thank you so ever much. Extension. After reading where the country and science field stood in the argument of evolution vs. creation, I wanted to know if the issue had ever become a democrat vs. republican dilemma. As far as I could gather, Republicans are pro-creationism while Democrats are generally for teaching both perspectives, but have not yet chosen only one view. http://www.evolutionnews.org/2009/07/james_carville_flaunts_his_int.html I learned.
It’s interesting to hear the percentages of scientists who believe in god or a higher power because, as a society and personally, religion is often disassociated from science. This begs the question, “Why?” because 51% of scientists do put their faith or at least acknowledge a higher influence. Although the scientific field is split almost evenly in regards to religion, there was an immense gap between them and the general public when it was a question of evolution. Being that 87% scientists believe in evolution and only 32% of the public see this as truth, you wonder who is right-something that I did not nor can learn from this article.
I know.
For me, it’s an intriguing dilemma. Evolution or simply concise creation? Recently, I’ve put more emphasis on evolution as the most probable path of humanity-though I cannot simply eliminate our quick introduction as an alternate option. I know that I don’t know. I wish I did but I have never read anything that persuaded me either way, though I did enjoy glancing at the statistical evidence in support of either option.
I yearn to learn.
I would like to know the main irrefutable evidence for both sides of the argument beyond the basic. The nitty-gritties if you will. Thank you so ever much.
Extension.
After reading where the country and science field stood in the argument of evolution vs. creation, I wanted to know if the issue had ever become a democrat vs. republican dilemma. As far as I could gather, Republicans are pro-creationism while Democrats are generally for teaching both perspectives, but have not yet chosen only one view.

http://www.evolutionnews.org/2009/07/james_carville_flaunts_his_int.html

]]> Comment on BLOG RECOVERY CE Week #13: “Old Clemency May Be Issue for Huckabee” Dec. 1st by Russ Zeeryp http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/12/01/blog-recovery-ce-week-13-old-clemency-may-be-issue-for-huckabee-dec-1st/comment-page-1/#comment-7846 Russ Zeeryp Thu, 03 Dec 2009 01:10:04 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1230#comment-7846 What I know? I have no information going into this subject. So we’ll see what I learn, and if I do know something maybe it’ll come back to me. It came back to me, I do remember his name now. He ran for President. What did I learn? I learned you can be sentenced more than 100 years in prison. I learned if you do something REALLY bad you should first call Governor Huckabee. I learned about a few of his cases, most seemed a bit brutal or based on smaller things that added up overtime. I learned he’s written six books. I believe I learned more about the caricature of Huckabee. To me, he sounds like a good person who believes in the human race, and he truly believes everyone should have a second chance. What do I want to know? I want to know what’s going to happen to the fiend Clemmons. Extension: I Googled Huckabee. I learned he came 2nd to McCain in the running for the Republican Party. I found he wrote a book that made it to New York Time’s Best Seller called “Do the Right Thing”. I looked at the Clemmons case charges, and found he brought a gun to school and burglary. It was his past history and violent behavior that landed him in prison. What I know?
I have no information going into this subject. So we’ll see what I learn, and if I do know something maybe it’ll come back to me. It came back to me, I do remember his name now. He ran for President.

What did I learn?
I learned you can be sentenced more than 100 years in prison. I learned if you do something REALLY bad you should first call Governor Huckabee. I learned about a few of his cases, most seemed a bit brutal or based on smaller things that added up overtime. I learned he’s written six books. I believe I learned more about the caricature of Huckabee. To me, he sounds like a good person who believes in the human race, and he truly believes everyone should have a second chance.

What do I want to know?
I want to know what’s going to happen to the fiend Clemmons.

Extension:
I Googled Huckabee. I learned he came 2nd to McCain in the running for the Republican Party. I found he wrote a book that made it to New York Time’s Best Seller called “Do the Right Thing”. I looked at the Clemmons case charges, and found he brought a gun to school and burglary. It was his past history and violent behavior that landed him in prison.

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: “Iranian uranium site heightens concerns” Nov. 17th by TJ McGriff http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/18/ce-week-11-iranian-uranium-site-heightens-concerns-nov-17th/comment-page-1/#comment-7845 TJ McGriff Wed, 02 Dec 2009 23:35:25 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1198#comment-7845 A. I learned that this Iran thing has been going on for a year. This worries me because I wasn’t informed. It has only recently hit the news hard. I also learned that Iran has been getting uranium already and they claim that they are going to use it for civilian purposes. This is hard to believe when you hear some things but it might be true. I would hope this is true and I don’t believe that Iran would consider firing one directly at us but they would possibly try to shoot one Israel’s way. There has always been animosity between them and that is what worries me. B. I know that this situation unsettles me but I think that every country has the right to research and get power from whatever system they choose. I just also believe that there should be regulations and every country should follow those. If a country doesn’t follow the rules we should have the courage to say they can’t before they have the nuke to fire. I would just like to extend on the fact that Iran’s President has traveled in South America to get access to more uranium deposits. He was fairly welcome in Venezuela too. Just thought I’d mention that. C. I would like to know the amounts needed for civilian purposes and to make a bomb. I would also like to know if it is hard to get uranium or something because in the uranium deposits the numbers coming out seem small in the grand scheme of things A. I learned that this Iran thing has been going on for a year. This worries me because I wasn’t informed. It has only recently hit the news hard. I also learned that Iran has been getting uranium already and they claim that they are going to use it for civilian purposes. This is hard to believe when you hear some things but it might be true. I would hope this is true and I don’t believe that Iran would consider firing one directly at us but they would possibly try to shoot one Israel’s way. There has always been animosity between them and that is what worries me.
B. I know that this situation unsettles me but I think that every country has the right to research and get power from whatever system they choose. I just also believe that there should be regulations and every country should follow those. If a country doesn’t follow the rules we should have the courage to say they can’t before they have the nuke to fire. I would just like to extend on the fact that Iran’s President has traveled in South America to get access to more uranium deposits. He was fairly welcome in Venezuela too. Just thought I’d mention that.
C. I would like to know the amounts needed for civilian purposes and to make a bomb. I would also like to know if it is hard to get uranium or something because in the uranium deposits the numbers coming out seem small in the grand scheme of things

]]> Comment on BLOG RECOVERY CE Week #13: ” President Obama gives go-ahead to implement Afghanistan strategy” Nov. 30th by TJ McGriff http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/30/ce-week-13-president-obama-gives-go-ahead-to-implement-afghanistan-strategy-nov-30th/comment-page-1/#comment-7844 TJ McGriff Wed, 02 Dec 2009 23:23:18 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1226#comment-7844 A. I learned that there is a surge and that there is something being done, finally. The number is somewhere between 30000 and 40000 by the sounds of it but as I read in the newspaper today that it doesn’t really specify in the long fun B. I know that this is a big deal. I want to be able to say that we did this right. Afghanistan isn’t ready to handle all this and needs our support. Last time we got the bad guys but didn’t help them internally. We need to do this right and show that we are a responsible superpower. I would like to extend that I’m deeply upset to see in the paper that Obama has said that troops will start to be withdrawn in 18 months. That isn’t good and the Taliban will just wait for 18 months and then make a push. Things aren’t in a situation where you can just say that it will be done in 18 months. It doesn’t work like that. I am a support of the war and what it stands for as a whole and I understand that the Afghans need to take care of it themselves too but saying we will be done in 18 months is arrogant. C. I would like to know what kind of political pressure was involved and why Obama is committing the troops if he is just going to pull them out again. A. I learned that there is a surge and that there is something being done, finally. The number is somewhere between 30000 and 40000 by the sounds of it but as I read in the newspaper today that it doesn’t really specify in the long fun
B. I know that this is a big deal. I want to be able to say that we did this right. Afghanistan isn’t ready to handle all this and needs our support. Last time we got the bad guys but didn’t help them internally. We need to do this right and show that we are a responsible superpower. I would like to extend that I’m deeply upset to see in the paper that Obama has said that troops will start to be withdrawn in 18 months. That isn’t good and the Taliban will just wait for 18 months and then make a push. Things aren’t in a situation where you can just say that it will be done in 18 months. It doesn’t work like that. I am a support of the war and what it stands for as a whole and I understand that the Afghans need to take care of it themselves too but saying we will be done in 18 months is arrogant.
C. I would like to know what kind of political pressure was involved and why Obama is committing the troops if he is just going to pull them out again.

]]> Comment on CE Week #12: “9/11 trials good for America” Nov. 23rd by Kyle Hicks http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/23/ce-week-12-911-trials-good-for-america-nov-23rd/comment-page-1/#comment-7843 Kyle Hicks Thu, 26 Nov 2009 20:33:35 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1218#comment-7843 A. What did you learn about this topic? I knew that we were trying Mohammed, but I hadn’t been following the trials. As such, I did a little research (thank you, Wikipedia) and am now fairly familiar with the going-ons. B. What is opinion about this particular topic or issue? As an American and a human being, I consider the murder of thousands of innocents an indescribable crime made all the worse by claiming that they were doing “God’s will”. No god would ever ask His followers to kill one of His creations. No martyr (which Mohammed has said would become of him if he were sentenced to death) would commit such a crime. As Pitts stated, any decent person’s natural inclination would be to make these criminals pay for what they did. However, I agree that swift justice would not be the best way to handle our situation. As Americans, we pledge our allegiance to the notion of liberty and justice for all. These terrorists want to destroy America. If we don’t give them what they deserve under our beliefs, we will be helping them destroy America. C. What more do you want to know about this particular topic or issue? At what point in the trials are we in? As far as I know, the charges were announced almost two years ago. D. Connection In class, we have discussed the death penalty. If convicted, the six being charged would face the death penalty. Although I, and probably most everybody, would agree that this is the most just punishment, I have to wonder if it is the best. These men believe that they will be martyred if sentenced to death. I personally don’t want them to have that satisfaction as they are dying. A better punishment would be to let them rot slowly in solitary confinement for the rest of their lives. Would this be unethical? Would it be cruel and unusual punishment? It seems just, but does that make it right? A. What did you learn about this topic?
I knew that we were trying Mohammed, but I hadn’t been following the trials. As such, I did a little research (thank you, Wikipedia) and am now fairly familiar with the going-ons.

B. What is opinion about this particular topic or issue?
As an American and a human being, I consider the murder of thousands of innocents an indescribable crime made all the worse by claiming that they were doing “God’s will”. No god would ever ask His followers to kill one of His creations. No martyr (which Mohammed has said would become of him if he were sentenced to death) would commit such a crime. As Pitts stated, any decent person’s natural inclination would be to make these criminals pay for what they did. However, I agree that swift justice would not be the best way to handle our situation. As Americans, we pledge our allegiance to the notion of liberty and justice for all. These terrorists want to destroy America. If we don’t give them what they deserve under our beliefs, we will be helping them destroy America.

C. What more do you want to know about this particular topic or issue?
At what point in the trials are we in? As far as I know, the charges were announced almost two years ago.

D. Connection
In class, we have discussed the death penalty. If convicted, the six being charged would face the death penalty. Although I, and probably most everybody, would agree that this is the most just punishment, I have to wonder if it is the best. These men believe that they will be martyred if sentenced to death. I personally don’t want them to have that satisfaction as they are dying. A better punishment would be to let them rot slowly in solitary confinement for the rest of their lives. Would this be unethical? Would it be cruel and unusual punishment? It seems just, but does that make it right?

]]> Comment on CE Week #12: “Translate Dropout Rates Into Dollars” Nov. 21st by Kyle Hicks http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/21/ce-week-12-translate-dropout-rates-into-dollars-nov-21st/comment-page-1/#comment-7842 Kyle Hicks Thu, 26 Nov 2009 19:58:23 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1212#comment-7842 A. What did you learn about this topic? Most of these statistics have been taught to us for four years and are already common knowledge. I did not know beforehand that districts do use different criteria to calculate dropout rates, though it makes sense that schools would want to make themselves look better statistically. B. What is you opinion about this particular topic or issue? Education is extremely important to a person’s financial success, happiness, and – as studies have shown – physical health. Unfortunately, too often decisions affecting students, teachers, and communities are made by a small group of people who live on the other side of the state. I feel that if education were left up to local communities, with some – but minimal - state or federal intrusion, schools would probably better themselves. C. What more do you want to know about this particular topic or issue? What is the dropout rate for Mt. Spokane High School? Our district? D. Extension: Two days ago, my grandmother from Iowa (who is staying at my house for Thanksgiving) mentioned to me how low Washington’s graduation rate is. She then let me know “how important an education is.” A little family history: The last time my grandma saw me, I had a mohawk. She is now convinced I’m burnout. Because of her prompting (Grandma! I’m in two AP classes and almost have a 3.5!) I wanted to know the dropout rates for Spokane and Washington. So I found an article from the Spokesman Review from 2002. The article says that only 67% of high schoolers graduate, and that only half of African American and Hispanic students graduate statewide. http://www.manhattan-institute.org/html/_spokreview-dropout_rate.htm A. What did you learn about this topic?
Most of these statistics have been taught to us for four years and are already common knowledge. I did not know beforehand that districts do use different criteria to calculate dropout rates, though it makes sense that schools would want to make themselves look better statistically.

B. What is you opinion about this particular topic or issue?
Education is extremely important to a person’s financial success, happiness, and – as studies have shown – physical health. Unfortunately, too often decisions affecting students, teachers, and communities are made by a small group of people who live on the other side of the state. I feel that if education were left up to local communities, with some – but minimal – state or federal intrusion, schools would probably better themselves.

C. What more do you want to know about this particular topic or issue?
What is the dropout rate for Mt. Spokane High School? Our district?

D. Extension:
Two days ago, my grandmother from Iowa (who is staying at my house for Thanksgiving) mentioned to me how low Washington’s graduation rate is. She then let me know “how important an education is.” A little family history: The last time my grandma saw me, I had a mohawk. She is now convinced I’m burnout. Because of her prompting (Grandma! I’m in two AP classes and almost have a 3.5!) I wanted to know the dropout rates for Spokane and Washington. So I found an article from the Spokesman Review from 2002.

The article says that only 67% of high schoolers graduate, and that only half of African American and Hispanic students graduate statewide.

http://www.manhattan-institute.org/html/_spokreview-dropout_rate.htm

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: “The Surprising Lessons of Vietnam” Nov. 16th by JJ Scott http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/16/ce-week-11-the-surprising-lessons-of-vietnam-nov-16th/comment-page-1/#comment-7841 JJ Scott Mon, 23 Nov 2009 02:52:44 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1190#comment-7841 In Response to Sammi Pace: You said, “While you can’t physically fight an ideal, you can fight what it stands for, and the people that define themselves through it.” What makes it right to fight what it stands for? If I wanted destroy all the capitalists because they are making everyone greedy, I couldn’t because that’s not right. Seeing that we are fighting what it stands for, I don’t see how it’s going to make it any better. Some people in our country say that our flag stands for our ideals as a country, which most people would probably say freedom. I could destroy every single one of our country’s flags, but does that mean that I am destroying what our country stands for; not really. It’s the same thing with the terrorists, we can kill them all we want, but in the end of the day the idea is still going to be there. We tried to fight the idea of communism in the Cold War by fighting nations that represented it, but today nations are becoming more and more socialized. You can fight what the idea stands for all you want, but you’ll never get rid of the idea by doing it. In Response to Sammi Pace:

You said, “While you can’t physically fight an ideal, you can fight what it stands for, and the people that define themselves through it.” What makes it right to fight what it stands for? If I wanted destroy all the capitalists because they are making everyone greedy, I couldn’t because that’s not right. Seeing that we are fighting what it stands for, I don’t see how it’s going to make it any better. Some people in our country say that our flag stands for our ideals as a country, which most people would probably say freedom. I could destroy every single one of our country’s flags, but does that mean that I am destroying what our country stands for; not really. It’s the same thing with the terrorists, we can kill them all we want, but in the end of the day the idea is still going to be there. We tried to fight the idea of communism in the Cold War by fighting nations that represented it, but today nations are becoming more and more socialized. You can fight what the idea stands for all you want, but you’ll never get rid of the idea by doing it.

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: “The Surprising Lessons of Vietnam” Nov. 16th by JJ Scott http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/16/ce-week-11-the-surprising-lessons-of-vietnam-nov-16th/comment-page-1/#comment-7840 JJ Scott Mon, 23 Nov 2009 02:36:49 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1190#comment-7840 In Response to Katie Bates: To answer your question, we have freedom of speech in our government, which makes fighting an idea to get rid of it illegal. If I want to be a communist, I can be. If I want to be an extremist Muslim, I can be. In Response to Katie Bates:

To answer your question, we have freedom of speech in our government, which makes fighting an idea to get rid of it illegal. If I want to be a communist, I can be. If I want to be an extremist Muslim, I can be.

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: ” News media needs balance, more debate” Nov. 18th by Alex Price http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/18/ce-week-11-news-media-needs-balance-more-debate-nov-18th/comment-page-1/#comment-7839 Alex Price Sun, 22 Nov 2009 22:34:15 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1210#comment-7839 In response to Brooke Batterson: There are no purely unbiased news medias. The idea of being a human is that you will have opinions. The idea of having opinions is that they will influence nearly everything that you do. Even you will admit (as any honest person will) that opinions influence most aspects of their everyday lives. Even that last sentence was influenced by my own opinions. It is virtually impossible to say anything without your opinions showing because of voice inflection, word choice, etcetera. In response to Brooke Batterson: There are no purely unbiased news medias. The idea of being a human is that you will have opinions. The idea of having opinions is that they will influence nearly everything that you do. Even you will admit (as any honest person will) that opinions influence most aspects of their everyday lives. Even that last sentence was influenced by my own opinions. It is virtually impossible to say anything without your opinions showing because of voice inflection, word choice, etcetera.

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: “Gay Marriage & Marijuana” Nov. 9th by Elise Martin http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/14/ce-week-11-gay-marriage-marijuana-nov-9th/comment-page-1/#comment-7838 Elise Martin Sun, 22 Nov 2009 22:33:59 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1186#comment-7838 To Lauren: The consequences of possession of marijuana can be treated as either a class A misdemeanor or as a class C felony, depending on the person's criminal history and whether or not the marijuana if for personal use. Also your sentence (or charge) can be different if you are under 18. As for your question of medical marijuana I searched and found that the new policy entails that, individuals legally using or supplying medical marijuana under state law should not be prosecuted under federal drug laws. this is obviously not specific though. To Lauren:
The consequences of possession of marijuana can be treated as either a class A misdemeanor or as a class C felony, depending on the person’s criminal history and whether or not the marijuana if for personal use. Also your sentence (or charge) can be different if you are under 18.

As for your question of medical marijuana I searched and found that the new policy entails that, individuals legally using or supplying medical marijuana under state law should not be prosecuted under federal drug laws. this is obviously not specific though.

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: “Playing what’s dealt in Afghanistan” Nov. 15th by Justin Johnson http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/15/ce-week-11-playing-what%e2%80%99s-dealt-in-afghanistan-nov-15th/comment-page-1/#comment-7837 Justin Johnson Sun, 22 Nov 2009 22:30:42 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1194#comment-7837 In response to Jesse Peterson: - There are currently about 38,000 troops serving in Afghanistan. An expected amount of 17,000 will be deployed in increments of 8,000 marines from Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, and 4,000 Army troops from Fort Lewis, Washington. Another 5,000 combat troops will be deployed at a later date. Source: http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/02/17/obama.troops/index.html In response to Jesse Peterson:

- There are currently about 38,000 troops serving in Afghanistan. An expected amount of 17,000 will be deployed in increments of 8,000 marines from Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, and 4,000 Army troops from Fort Lewis, Washington. Another 5,000 combat troops will be deployed at a later date.

Source: http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/02/17/obama.troops/index.html

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: “The Surprising Lessons of Vietnam” Nov. 16th by Alex Price http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/16/ce-week-11-the-surprising-lessons-of-vietnam-nov-16th/comment-page-1/#comment-7836 Alex Price Sun, 22 Nov 2009 22:27:17 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1190#comment-7836 In response to Brooke Batterson: You asked what we are gaining from being in Afghanistan. In one simple word: revenge. It is the most basic and simple human emotion, descended down from the impulsive hate that we all feel. Someone in that country caused the deaths of over 2000 people, so we feel the basic human instinct to steal kill and destroy. Thankfully, we have moved from having such a primitive aspect to having rules and regulations, which prevent the Viking-esque desire to kill everyone in sight. While we should have showed more restraint, we were most likely justified in entering Afghanistan, but by now little is fueling us other than the hope of exacting revenge on Osama Bin Laden. In response to Brooke Batterson: You asked what we are gaining from being in Afghanistan. In one simple word: revenge. It is the most basic and simple human emotion, descended down from the impulsive hate that we all feel. Someone in that country caused the deaths of over 2000 people, so we feel the basic human instinct to steal kill and destroy. Thankfully, we have moved from having such a primitive aspect to having rules and regulations, which prevent the Viking-esque desire to kill everyone in sight. While we should have showed more restraint, we were most likely justified in entering Afghanistan, but by now little is fueling us other than the hope of exacting revenge on Osama Bin Laden.

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: “Gay Marriage & Marijuana” Nov. 9th by Justin Johnson http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/14/ce-week-11-gay-marriage-marijuana-nov-9th/comment-page-1/#comment-7835 Justin Johnson Sun, 22 Nov 2009 22:16:26 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1186#comment-7835 In response to Lauren Lynch: -If you're not a minor punishment can depend on how much you are carrying. If you have less than an ounce charges are usually a maximum of $1,000 or 6 months in jail. However, if you possess more than an ounce it can be tried as possession with intent of trafficking which can lead up to multiple years in prison or thousands of dollars in fines. Source: http://www.cba.org/bc/public_media/criminal/201.aspx In response to Lauren Lynch:

-If you’re not a minor punishment can depend on how much you are carrying. If you have less than an ounce charges are usually a maximum of $1,000 or 6 months in jail. However, if you possess more than an ounce it can be tried as possession with intent of trafficking which can lead up to multiple years in prison or thousands of dollars in fines.

Source: http://www.cba.org/bc/public_media/criminal/201.aspx

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: “Everyone Out of the Water!” (Climate Change/Global Warming) Nov. 16th by Kevin Danger Yen http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/14/ce-week-11-everyone-out-of-the-water-climate-changeglobal-warming-nov-16th/comment-page-1/#comment-7834 Kevin Danger Yen Sun, 22 Nov 2009 22:15:08 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1188#comment-7834 In Response to Daniel Lipuzhin "I believe that there’s no stopping global warming.- We need a radical change to be able to save our planet from destruction by the sun." I agree with you on what you said before, that some of the purposed plans to help end global warming are impossible, but when i kept on reading and got to this part i have to disagree with you to a certain extent. I don't believe that the goal of all the green projects around the nation is to completely stop global warming, well it is, but more realistically it's to slow down the effects of global warming. There's no turning around the environment, unless we want to go to Antarctica and try and re freeze the glaciers. So what I'm trying to say is that there isn't really a stopping global warming but more of a slowing down. In Response to Daniel Lipuzhin

“I believe that there’s no stopping global warming.- We need a radical change to be able to save our planet from destruction by the sun.”

I agree with you on what you said before, that some of the purposed plans to help end global warming are impossible, but when i kept on reading and got to this part i have to disagree with you to a certain extent. I don’t believe that the goal of all the green projects around the nation is to completely stop global warming, well it is, but more realistically it’s to slow down the effects of global warming.
There’s no turning around the environment, unless we want to go to Antarctica and try and re freeze the glaciers. So what I’m trying to say is that there isn’t really a stopping global warming but more of a slowing down.

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: ” News media needs balance, more debate” Nov. 18th by Elise Martin http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/18/ce-week-11-news-media-needs-balance-more-debate-nov-18th/comment-page-1/#comment-7833 Elise Martin Sun, 22 Nov 2009 21:59:54 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1210#comment-7833 In response to Sadie Peterson: Its no surprise that 'only' 47 percent of people consider themselves knowledgable of the health care reform, simply because most americans choose not to pay attention or just dont care. I think the people that are informed are the elite, wealthy, and elderly and politically active americans. there should be no blame of the media, if one wants to know about health-care they'll go find information about it, its that simple. In response to Sadie Peterson:

Its no surprise that ‘only’ 47 percent of people consider themselves knowledgable of the health care reform, simply because most americans choose not to pay attention or just dont care. I think the people that are informed are the elite, wealthy, and elderly and politically active americans. there should be no blame of the media, if one wants to know about health-care they’ll go find information about it, its that simple.

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: “Playing what’s dealt in Afghanistan” Nov. 15th by Dillon Fischer http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/15/ce-week-11-playing-what%e2%80%99s-dealt-in-afghanistan-nov-15th/comment-page-1/#comment-7831 Dillon Fischer Sun, 22 Nov 2009 21:57:24 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1194#comment-7831 In response to Sarah Fullmer: The prisoners currently being held at Guantanamo are individuals captured in Afghanistan suspected of being involved with international terrorism. So the short answer to your question would be yes, the intention of Guantanamo Bay prison is to hold members of terrorist organizations such as Al-Qaeda and the Taliban. However, of the 775 prisoners captured since the beginning of the war in Afghanistan, 420 have been released without charge. A number of prisoners who were found innocent and released alleged that they were tortured while in confinement. There are even children currently being held in Guantanamo, in defiance of international law. It's up to you to decide if these people deserve a civil trial in our country. In response to Sarah Fullmer:
The prisoners currently being held at Guantanamo are individuals captured in Afghanistan suspected of being involved with international terrorism. So the short answer to your question would be yes, the intention of Guantanamo Bay prison is to hold members of terrorist organizations such as Al-Qaeda and the Taliban. However, of the 775 prisoners captured since the beginning of the war in Afghanistan, 420 have been released without charge. A number of prisoners who were found innocent and released alleged that they were tortured while in confinement. There are even children currently being held in Guantanamo, in defiance of international law. It’s up to you to decide if these people deserve a civil trial in our country.

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: “What Coattails?” Nov. 16th by Kyle Hicks http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/16/ce-week-11-what-coattails-nov-16th/comment-page-1/#comment-7832 Kyle Hicks Sun, 22 Nov 2009 21:57:24 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1191#comment-7832 In response to Devon Preedy: “What are the approval rates of the Democratic and Republican parties?” As of October 2009, the Republican Party had a 36% approval rating, and the Democratic Party had a 53% approval rating. I got these statistics from a CNN Gallup poll. http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2009/images/10/23/rel15i.pdf In response to Devon Preedy:

“What are the approval rates of the Democratic and Republican parties?”

As of October 2009, the Republican Party had a 36% approval rating, and the Democratic Party had a 53% approval rating.

I got these statistics from a CNN Gallup poll.
http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2009/images/10/23/rel15i.pdf

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: “Gay Marriage & Marijuana” Nov. 9th by Derrick Cunningham http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/14/ce-week-11-gay-marriage-marijuana-nov-9th/comment-page-1/#comment-7830 Derrick Cunningham Sun, 22 Nov 2009 21:56:43 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1186#comment-7830 Valerie: I kind of see your fears as speculative. Why would a new religion be formed because of gay marriage? There are already a lot of religions that accept gay marriages and perform union ceremonies in states that do not have legal marriage for gays. Ibuprofen probably won't be going out of business because there are a lot of people who know that smoking in any form is bad for them - especially when it comes to marijuana. With strong campaigning against the use of these substances, I'm sure a lot of people can learn to make informed decisions when they decided to take these substances. While I'm sure there will be consequences to if both actions are executed they probably aren't as severe as you think - especially with gay marriage. Marijuana is a little more difficult given the crime and such that surround the substance. Valerie:
I kind of see your fears as speculative. Why would a new religion be formed because of gay marriage? There are already a lot of religions that accept gay marriages and perform union ceremonies in states that do not have legal marriage for gays. Ibuprofen probably won’t be going out of business because there are a lot of people who know that smoking in any form is bad for them – especially when it comes to marijuana. With strong campaigning against the use of these substances, I’m sure a lot of people can learn to make informed decisions when they decided to take these substances. While I’m sure there will be consequences to if both actions are executed they probably aren’t as severe as you think – especially with gay marriage. Marijuana is a little more difficult given the crime and such that surround the substance.

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: “Civility needs infusion of pizazz” Nov. 15th by Derrick Cunningham http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/15/ce-week-11-civility-needs-infusion-of-pizazz-nov-15th/comment-page-1/#comment-7829 Derrick Cunningham Sun, 22 Nov 2009 21:49:43 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1192#comment-7829 Alyson: I don't know if you are for or against media incivility (it seems like your are for it maybe?). Regardless, shouldn't we all be trying to advance in society as a whole and promoting ethics and benevolence toward our peers? It seems like promoting incivility creates more problems and shifts the focus from the issues to the drama ( = misinformed voters, etc). Alyson:
I don’t know if you are for or against media incivility (it seems like your are for it maybe?). Regardless, shouldn’t we all be trying to advance in society as a whole and promoting ethics and benevolence toward our peers? It seems like promoting incivility creates more problems and shifts the focus from the issues to the drama ( = misinformed voters, etc).

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: “Gay Marriage & Marijuana” Nov. 9th by Taylor Jordan http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/14/ce-week-11-gay-marriage-marijuana-nov-9th/comment-page-1/#comment-7828 Taylor Jordan Sun, 22 Nov 2009 21:38:12 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1186#comment-7828 In response to Valerie: Valerie, I completely disagree with your assertion that "The day gay marriage becomes legal there will be a different branch of religion formed". What exactly do you mean by this? But in response to your questions, this website has information on which states have legalized medical marijuana http://medicalmarijuana.procon.org/viewresource.asp?resourceID=000881 and this site has all the information about gay marriage and domestic partnerships. http://www.stateline.org/live/details/story?contentId=347390 In response to Valerie:

Valerie, I completely disagree with your assertion that “The day gay marriage becomes legal there will be a different branch of religion formed”. What exactly do you mean by this? But in response to your questions, this website has information on which states have legalized medical marijuana http://medicalmarijuana.procon.org/viewresource.asp?resourceID=000881 and this site has all the information about gay marriage and domestic partnerships. http://www.stateline.org/live/details/story?contentId=347390

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: “China Holds Firm on Major Issues in Obama’s Visit” Nov. 18th by Kyle Hicks http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/18/ce-week-11-china-holds-firm-on-major-issues-in-obama%e2%80%99s-visit-nov-18th/comment-page-1/#comment-7827 Kyle Hicks Sun, 22 Nov 2009 21:32:50 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1204#comment-7827 In response to Sarah Fullmer: “Can you tell me more about Dalai Lama?” The Dalai Lama, as you stated, is a Tibetan spiritual leader. It is believed that each Dalai Lama is the reincarnation of previous Dalai Lamas. To Tibetan Buddhists, the Dalai Lama is like the pope. The Dalai Lama ran the country of Tibet until 1949 when they were invaded by China. China assumed complete control over Tibet by 1959. The current Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, is in exile from Tibet because of China’s take over. In response to Sarah Fullmer:

“Can you tell me more about Dalai Lama?”

The Dalai Lama, as you stated, is a Tibetan spiritual leader. It is believed that each Dalai Lama is the reincarnation of previous Dalai Lamas. To Tibetan Buddhists, the Dalai Lama is like the pope. The Dalai Lama ran the country of Tibet until 1949 when they were invaded by China. China assumed complete control over Tibet by 1959. The current Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, is in exile from Tibet because of China’s take over.

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: “Gay Marriage & Marijuana” Nov. 9th by Dillon Fischer http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/14/ce-week-11-gay-marriage-marijuana-nov-9th/comment-page-1/#comment-7826 Dillon Fischer Sun, 22 Nov 2009 21:27:42 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1186#comment-7826 In response to Daniel Lipuzhin: I am surprised to hear you say that our society is going the wrong direction morally. A 90 year difference can “mess up” values like marriage, according to you… Apparently it can also “mess up” values like unequal civil rights and political oppression. Since 1920 we have been granted women’s suffrage, limits on presidential terms, and a lower voting age. We passed the Civil Rights Acts of 1964 and 1968 and have greatly reduced racial conflict and inequality in our country. An unprecedented number of women are in the work force, and are paid as closely to their male co-workers as they ever have been. I call that progress, not the wrong direction. I don’t know what to say to you if you attribute the rise of gay marriage to the rise of perverts; our opinions obviously differ in a way that probably won’t change. And I’m not sure what you’re implying by saying there is no alternative lifestyle, you either live right or die? Do those who “live right” (and by live right you mean live like you) live forever? Luckily in America we have the freedom to live as we choose, even though you may disagree with it. In response to your comments on marijuana: First off, why are you so opposed to marijuana when it is less harmful than alcohol or tobacco? Secondly, in reference to your comments on Humboldt and Sonoma Counties: Do you really have any idea how much they need? In response to Daniel Lipuzhin:
I am surprised to hear you say that our society is going the wrong direction morally. A 90 year difference can “mess up” values like marriage, according to you… Apparently it can also “mess up” values like unequal civil rights and political oppression. Since 1920 we have been granted women’s suffrage, limits on presidential terms, and a lower voting age. We passed the Civil Rights Acts of 1964 and 1968 and have greatly reduced racial conflict and inequality in our country. An unprecedented number of women are in the work force, and are paid as closely to their male co-workers as they ever have been. I call that progress, not the wrong direction. I don’t know what to say to you if you attribute the rise of gay marriage to the rise of perverts; our opinions obviously differ in a way that probably won’t change. And I’m not sure what you’re implying by saying there is no alternative lifestyle, you either live right or die? Do those who “live right” (and by live right you mean live like you) live forever? Luckily in America we have the freedom to live as we choose, even though you may disagree with it.

In response to your comments on marijuana: First off, why are you so opposed to marijuana when it is less harmful than alcohol or tobacco? Secondly, in reference to your comments on Humboldt and Sonoma Counties: Do you really have any idea how much they need?

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: “Iranian uranium site heightens concerns” Nov. 17th by Ype Kingma http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/18/ce-week-11-iranian-uranium-site-heightens-concerns-nov-17th/comment-page-1/#comment-7825 Ype Kingma Sun, 22 Nov 2009 21:26:19 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1198#comment-7825 In response to Drew Williams: Here is a link to a website that explains what the IAEA’s job is, http://www.un-ngls.org/orf/documents/publications.en/ngls.handbook/5iaea.htm In response to Drew Williams:
Here is a link to a website that explains what the IAEA’s job is, http://www.un-ngls.org/orf/documents/publications.en/ngls.handbook/5iaea.htm

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: ” News media needs balance, more debate” Nov. 18th by Taylor Jordan http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/18/ce-week-11-news-media-needs-balance-more-debate-nov-18th/comment-page-1/#comment-7824 Taylor Jordan Sun, 22 Nov 2009 21:18:41 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1210#comment-7824 In response to Ype: Ype I agree with what you say about the media not really covering the actual specifics of the bill. And no one is going to actually sit down and read the entire bill, that's a little excessive. I found this article which provides a very brief summary of the bill: http://energycommerce.house.gov/Press_111/20090714/hr3200_summary.pdf In response to Ype:

Ype I agree with what you say about the media not really covering the actual specifics of the bill. And no one is going to actually sit down and read the entire bill, that’s a little excessive. I found this article which provides a very brief summary of the bill: http://energycommerce.house.gov/Press_111/20090714/hr3200_summary.pdf

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: ” News media needs balance, more debate” Nov. 18th by Ype Kingma http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/18/ce-week-11-news-media-needs-balance-more-debate-nov-18th/comment-page-1/#comment-7823 Ype Kingma Sun, 22 Nov 2009 21:15:10 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1210#comment-7823 In response to Carley Ross: Yes Carley, it is actually really easy to get a hold of the health care bill, it can be found at this website here: http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/D?c111:1:./temp/~c111tb9auH:: have a good day! In response to Carley Ross:
Yes Carley, it is actually really easy to get a hold of the health care bill, it can be found at this website here: http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/D?c111:1:./temp/~c111tb9auH:: have a good day!

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: “Court won’t hear Redskins case” Nov. 17th by Jesse Peterson http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/16/ce-week-11-court-wont-hear-redskins-case-nov-17th/comment-page-1/#comment-7822 Jesse Peterson Sun, 22 Nov 2009 20:56:31 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1196#comment-7822 In response to Jeremy Wales: A panel is a group of persons gathered to conduct a public discussion, judge a contest, serve as advisers, and be players on a radio or television game, or the like: a panel of political scientists meeting to discuss foreign policy. According to http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/panel In response to Jeremy Wales:
A panel is a group of persons gathered to conduct a public discussion, judge a contest, serve as advisers, and be players on a radio or television game, or the like: a panel of political scientists meeting to discuss foreign policy. According to http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/panel

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: “Playing what’s dealt in Afghanistan” Nov. 15th by Jesse Peterson http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/15/ce-week-11-playing-what%e2%80%99s-dealt-in-afghanistan-nov-15th/comment-page-1/#comment-7821 Jesse Peterson Sun, 22 Nov 2009 20:55:44 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1194#comment-7821 In response to Nikki Follett: http://www.infoplease.com/spot/taliban-time.html tells the time line of the Taliban. Some of the Taliban issues are that in September of 1994 the Taliban were appointed by Pakistan to protect a trade convoy and quickly emerge as one of the strongest factions. Then, in September 1996 the Taliban, under the leadership of Mullah Muhammad Omar, seized control of Kabul and implemented a strict interpretation of Islamic law. They exiled President Rabbani and executed Najibullah. The Taliban offered Osama bin Laden refuge. In response to Nikki Follett:
http://www.infoplease.com/spot/taliban-time.html tells the time line of the Taliban. Some of the Taliban issues are that in September of 1994 the Taliban were appointed by Pakistan to protect a trade convoy and quickly emerge as one of the strongest factions. Then, in September 1996 the Taliban, under the leadership of Mullah Muhammad Omar, seized control of Kabul and implemented a strict interpretation of Islamic law. They exiled President Rabbani and executed Najibullah. The Taliban offered Osama bin Laden refuge.

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: ” News media needs balance, more debate” Nov. 18th by Jessica Levy http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/18/ce-week-11-news-media-needs-balance-more-debate-nov-18th/comment-page-1/#comment-7820 Jessica Levy Sun, 22 Nov 2009 20:22:31 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1210#comment-7820 In response to Bree Ferris: You asked “What is a right-wing ‘tea party?’” A tea party is a protest in which citizens participate when they want a change to incur. Right-wing “tea parties” are very conservative tea parties that want to change something in their favor. A tea party is used for many different reasons it is not just the right-wing side of politics that use them to get attention placed on their cause. In response to Bree Ferris:
You asked “What is a right-wing ‘tea party?’” A tea party is a protest in which citizens participate when they want a change to incur. Right-wing “tea parties” are very conservative tea parties that want to change something in their favor. A tea party is used for many different reasons it is not just the right-wing side of politics that use them to get attention placed on their cause.

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: “Everyone Out of the Water!” (Climate Change/Global Warming) Nov. 16th by Jessica Levy http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/14/ce-week-11-everyone-out-of-the-water-climate-changeglobal-warming-nov-16th/comment-page-1/#comment-7819 Jessica Levy Sun, 22 Nov 2009 20:02:04 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1188#comment-7819 In response to Daniel Lipuzhin: I disagree with your comment that global warming will destroy the earth. Over the years the climate in the world has changed from, hot to cold, we have lived through El Niño and la Niña, the heating and cooling fluctuation in weather. The world has also gone through ice ages, if this is any sign we should expect a change from hot to cold. Although these recent changes may seem worse, you have to believe that every time something is repeated there is a difference, whether more intense, or less, or possibly different reasons for the occurrence. In response to Daniel Lipuzhin:
I disagree with your comment that global warming will destroy the earth. Over the years the climate in the world has changed from, hot to cold, we have lived through El Niño and la Niña, the heating and cooling fluctuation in weather. The world has also gone through ice ages, if this is any sign we should expect a change from hot to cold. Although these recent changes may seem worse, you have to believe that every time something is repeated there is a difference, whether more intense, or less, or possibly different reasons for the occurrence.

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: “Playing what’s dealt in Afghanistan” Nov. 15th by Haley Anderson http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/15/ce-week-11-playing-what%e2%80%99s-dealt-in-afghanistan-nov-15th/comment-page-1/#comment-7818 Haley Anderson Sun, 22 Nov 2009 19:39:39 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1194#comment-7818 Questions: How many troops are in Afghanistan right now? As of right now, there are a total of 38,000 troops are currently in Afghanistan. I found this article that says 8,000 Marines are expected to be deployed and 4,000 Army troops as well from Fort Lewis, Washington. There will be 5,000 troops joining later in combat for a total of 17,000 new troops. Obama states, "This increase is necessary to stabilize a deteriorating situation in Afghanistan, which has not received the strategic attention, direction and resources it urgently requires." http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/02/17/obama.troops/index.html Questions: How many troops are in Afghanistan right now?

As of right now, there are a total of 38,000 troops are currently in Afghanistan. I found this article that says 8,000 Marines are expected to be deployed and 4,000 Army troops as well from Fort Lewis, Washington. There will be 5,000 troops joining later in combat for a total of 17,000 new troops. Obama states, “This increase is necessary to stabilize a deteriorating situation in Afghanistan, which has not received the strategic attention, direction and resources it urgently requires.”

http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/02/17/obama.troops/index.html

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: “Everyone Out of the Water!” (Climate Change/Global Warming) Nov. 16th by Haley Anderson http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/14/ce-week-11-everyone-out-of-the-water-climate-changeglobal-warming-nov-16th/comment-page-1/#comment-7817 Haley Anderson Sun, 22 Nov 2009 19:29:08 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1188#comment-7817 In response to Kelli Davin: "What I would like to know is if anyone else agrees with me on this article." I do not agree with part of your stance on this article. Global warming is and has been a big issue longer than we may think. Although the temperatures may be cooling down a little, the overall climate change has been significant. There is much evidence to support this as well. I do believe there is global warming occurring and we need to do something about it. On the other hand, I also didn't make the connection with the sharks and "stay out of the water." It seemed a little irrelevant with the topic of climate change. In response to Kelli Davin:

“What I would like to know is if anyone else agrees with me on this article.”

I do not agree with part of your stance on this article. Global warming is and has been a big issue longer than we may think. Although the temperatures may be cooling down a little, the overall climate change has been significant. There is much evidence to support this as well. I do believe there is global warming occurring and we need to do something about it.

On the other hand, I also didn’t make the connection with the sharks and “stay out of the water.” It seemed a little irrelevant with the topic of climate change.

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: “Gay Marriage & Marijuana” Nov. 9th by Alysa Draper-Dehart http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/14/ce-week-11-gay-marriage-marijuana-nov-9th/comment-page-1/#comment-7816 Alysa Draper-Dehart Sun, 22 Nov 2009 19:27:48 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1186#comment-7816 In response to Katie Bates, I really do think your wrong about same-sex marriage. The only people who seem to be against it are hard-core-bible-pounders and is it not an American statement of 'separation of church and state'? So then why are we allowing those people to make the decisions, when they are basing them off of their religious backgrounds and further influencing the rest of the American populace. As for marijuana, sure alcohol has more deaths, but what about crimes? In response to Katie Bates, I really do think your wrong about same-sex marriage. The only people who seem to be against it are hard-core-bible-pounders and is it not an American statement of ’separation of church and state’? So then why are we allowing those people to make the decisions, when they are basing them off of their religious backgrounds and further influencing the rest of the American populace. As for marijuana, sure alcohol has more deaths, but what about crimes?

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: “Gay Marriage & Marijuana” Nov. 9th by Alysa Draper-Dehart http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/14/ce-week-11-gay-marriage-marijuana-nov-9th/comment-page-1/#comment-7815 Alysa Draper-Dehart Sun, 22 Nov 2009 19:16:24 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1186#comment-7815 In response to Devon Preedy, the 6 states that have legalized same sex marriage are; Massachusetts, Connecticut, Iowa, Vermont, Maine and New Hampshire. That being said, New York might be the next one to legalize same sex marriage. As for the treasury license, it's just a license that one need's to travel to Cuba and like countries: (go here for more information, http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1097.html) In response to Devon Preedy, the 6 states that have legalized same sex marriage are; Massachusetts, Connecticut, Iowa, Vermont, Maine and New Hampshire. That being said, New York might be the next one to legalize same sex marriage. As for the treasury license, it’s just a license that one need’s to travel to Cuba and like countries: (go here for more information, http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1097.html)

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: “Gay Marriage & Marijuana” Nov. 9th by Drew Williams http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/14/ce-week-11-gay-marriage-marijuana-nov-9th/comment-page-1/#comment-7814 Drew Williams Sun, 22 Nov 2009 19:09:40 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1186#comment-7814 Dillon Fischer: Legalizing marijuana is getting very close in California. Arnold is really considering it. Many people are pushing for it to happen including Carlos Santana and Pamela Anderson. 52% of voters believe that it should be made legal with a tax on it. http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/28/us/28pot.html This is a site of what is going on in California as of October 28th. The pro-marijuana camp is generally composed of Libertarians and left wing activists, and advocates the decriminalization, and in some cases, total legalization, of marijuana. Proponents of legalization claim that the drug war is failing, that people arrested and imprisoned for marijuana use are not cured of their habit during time spent in jail. The pro-marijuana advocates also suggest that if marijuana were to be legalized, the government could regulate the substance, much like tobacco and alcohol. Thus, there would a means to regulate the purity of distributed marijuana, a means of tracking marijuana use in the United States, and a means of taxing (therefore increasing federal revenue) sale and distribution of marijuana. Under such a policy, abuse of marijuana would be treated very similarly to abuse of alcohol. The liberal side also suggests that legalizing and controlling marijuana would decrease crimes associated with the substance, and lead to safer and more responsible use of the substance. I could not find how many politicians support legalizing it, but I found examples: Arnold, and Mary Lou Dickerson. Dillon Fischer:

Legalizing marijuana is getting very close in California. Arnold is really considering it. Many people are pushing for it to happen including Carlos Santana and Pamela Anderson. 52% of voters believe that it should be made legal with a tax on it.

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/28/us/28pot.html

This is a site of what is going on in California as of October 28th.

The pro-marijuana camp is generally composed of Libertarians and left wing activists, and advocates the decriminalization, and in some cases, total legalization, of marijuana. Proponents of legalization claim that the drug war is failing, that people arrested and imprisoned for marijuana use are not cured of their habit during time spent in jail. The pro-marijuana advocates also suggest that if marijuana were to be legalized, the government could regulate the substance, much like tobacco and alcohol. Thus, there would a means to regulate the purity of distributed marijuana, a means of tracking marijuana use in the United States, and a means of taxing (therefore increasing federal revenue) sale and distribution of marijuana. Under such a policy, abuse of marijuana would be treated very similarly to abuse of alcohol. The liberal side also suggests that legalizing and controlling marijuana would decrease crimes associated with the substance, and lead to safer and more responsible use of the substance.

I could not find how many politicians support legalizing it, but I found examples: Arnold, and Mary Lou Dickerson.

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: “Gay Marriage & Marijuana” Nov. 9th by Valerie Nauditt http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/14/ce-week-11-gay-marriage-marijuana-nov-9th/comment-page-1/#comment-7813 Valerie Nauditt Sun, 22 Nov 2009 19:02:57 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1186#comment-7813 In Response to Lauren Lynch: In Washington the laws for marijuana are: Possession: less than 40 g - misdemeanor - $250 fine more than 40 g - felony - $10,000 fine Sale or Cultivation Less than 40 g - felony - $10,000 fine 40 g or more - felony - $10,000 fine sale to a minor of 3 years younger than seller - felony - double penalty I got this information from http://norml.org In Response to Lauren Lynch:
In Washington the laws for marijuana are:
Possession:
less than 40 g – misdemeanor – $250 fine
more than 40 g – felony – $10,000 fine

Sale or Cultivation
Less than 40 g – felony – $10,000 fine
40 g or more – felony – $10,000 fine
sale to a minor of 3 years younger than seller – felony – double penalty

I got this information from http://norml.org

]]> Comment on CE Week #11: “Everyone Out of the Water!” (Climate Change/Global Warming) Nov. 16th by Drew Williams http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/2009/11/14/ce-week-11-everyone-out-of-the-water-climate-changeglobal-warming-nov-16th/comment-page-1/#comment-7812 Drew Williams Sun, 22 Nov 2009 18:47:09 +0000 http://pkautzman.edublogs.org/?p=1188#comment-7812 Kylei Tompkins: There are a lot of different viewpoints on whether to be worried or not. Some people like Al Gore and a few major scientists believe that global warming is a big issue and we need to help the cause. We have proof that it is a concern, like the polar ice caps and glaciers melting. Also scientists have found evidence that there use to be large masses of water in places like the Sahara. People think we need to drive less, and carpool with others, so we let out less CO2. Other people think that we should start using other means of energy like wind and water instead of fossil fuel. http://www.globalissues.org/issue/178/climate-change-and-global-warming This site has information on global warming, along with articles and opinions from different people. Kylei Tompkins:
There are a lot of different viewpoints on whether to be worried or not. Some people like Al Gore and a few major scientists believe that global warming is a big issue and we need to help the cause. We have proof that it is a concern, like the polar ice caps and glaciers melting. Also scientists have found evidence that there use to be large masses of water in places like the Sahara.
People think we need to drive less, and carpool with others, so we let out less CO2. Other people think that we should start using other means of energy like wind and water instead of fossil fuel.

http://www.globalissues.org/issue/178/climate-change-and-global-warming

This site has information on global warming, along with articles and opinions from different people.

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