Friday, December 7, 2007

A Dead Man Has Some Explaining to Do

Date: 12/6/07

What would you do if you lost your husband, father or friend? In the mist of air, a man, John Darwin was declared dead in April 2003 but it appears he is still alive after walking into a police station claiming he doesn't know his whereabouts for the last couple of years. Police are considering this fraud and may have had debt before disappearing. Darwin will still stick to his story saying he doesn't know what he's been doing since his disappearance.

Dectective Superintendent Hutchinson had recieved financial information three months prior to his existence and found something suspcious. His wife and children and very happy that he is alive after a family vacation where they were kayaking and might've fell and hit his head. His body was never recovered but they did find his paddle and kayak. Mrs. Darwin said it was difficult dealing with his lost and she collected his life insurance and moved to Panama.

It seems odd to have a man disappear for so many years and reappear out of no where. Could this have been fraud to collect life insurance or simply the truth? Before Mrs. Darwin moved to Panama, a website that specializes in relocating. The owner, Mario Vilar said he remembers posing with the couple in a picture beforing moving to Panama. This would be the greatest mystery to figure out and why Darwin decided to come foward now.

Wednesday, November 28, 2007

To Muslim Girls, Scouts Offer a Chance to Fit In

Date: 11/28/07

The Muslim religion are very strict with the dress codes. Living in America and giving these young Muslim girls a chance to live as a normal girl. For them to fit in, these young girls are part of a Girl Scout. It give them comfort when they are able to fit in. All over the United States, the Muslim communities have began Girl Scout to help teach girls how to cook hot dogs or fix a flat bicycle tire. They can represent being an American but at the same time not forget about where they came from. These organizers belong to non-Muslim troops. This is the same as holding a Boy Scout organization where these young boys came adapt to the anture life.

Traditionally, your suppose to say grace before you eat and instead these girls will pray to their god, Allah and live to by the Girl Scout law. It's also very difficult to attract girls to these scouts because parents have a strong resistence against them. Especially parents coming from a Islamic culture who expect their daughters to come home and do chores. These parents are afraid that their daughter might turn into a typical American girl.

This is a great idea to start a organization for American-Muslims to fit in. They are able to tell others, they're in a girl scout without getting a odd look from them. They can express who they are and learn how to adapt to their surrounding without having to feel left out. This article was very worthy because I never knew of seperate girl scouts besides the all American one. It makes it more diverse but in a traditional way. Now, these young Muslim girls will have the chance to live the American dream.

Judge Rebuked in Case of Cellphone 'Madness'

Date: 11/28/07

The law, it's suppose to be focusing on the people rights and who should be put away. But instead a furious judge, Robert M. Restaino decided to sentence 70 people in the courtroom if their cellphone were not off. This was two hours of madness because somebody in the back row had their cellphone ringing. He was dealing with many domestic violence cases when that one phone interrupted his day. Judge Restaino had a security guard search for the ringing cell phone but failed with no results. I believe this judge has gone out of his mind to waste this much time to look for a ridiculous cellphone while there are other matters that should be settle. This was ignorant of the judge and certainly not ethical in his position.

All defendants in the courtroom were part of a program for domestic violence offenders who agreed to take a drug and alcohol test. One defendant, Reginald Jones was one of the first one out of 46 other defendants to be in custody because of the ringing cellphone. This is outraged and unfair to everyone that was in that courtroom. Another defendant told the judge this was not fair and the judge simply said, "You're right, it ain't right. Ain't right at all".

This happened in Niagara Falls, NY. There courtroom system should be the same as the other five boroughs in New York. I deal with the courts and law system all the time. I have heard a few stories from my co-workers that securities inside the courthouse have made an issue with bringing in cell phones before seeing a judge or clerk. Before you enter to see the judge, you must leave your cellphone outside. They are extremely strict with cellphones for security purposes. I understand if we checked in our personal things for security but Judge Restaino has gone overboard and his lawyer that represents him said, "he would exercise his rights to appeal the decision" after sentencing the defendants and waiting for it to be over.

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

Khmer Rouge Figure Appears in Court

11/21/07

Another Hitler act? No! It's a cruel massive torturing of 1.7 million people and one defendant of Khmer Rouge went into a Cambodia courtroom to answer his doing. The defendant, Kaing Guek Eav also known as Duch is being charge with numerous crimes against this torture house he controlled. His case was being delayed due to interruption of war, politics and legal disputes,
For four years, from 1975 to 1979, the Khmer Rouge forced millions of people into labor gangs, and huge numbers died of starvation, exhaustion and disease. There were also those who were sent to killing fields.

He wanted to appeal his case because it took so long to begin in the first place. It has been nearly 8 years, 6 months & 10 days. The Cambodian spectators was not taking it and just took it as a simple joke. About 14,000 were tortured under Duch's order in his prison and only a handful of people have survived this horrible act. Tortures that were perform were, stabbing, beating, suspension from ropes, removing fingernails and other disturbing incidents. Duch came to realize and converted back to Christianity and wanted to confess his sins. Also being charged is Khmer Rouge president, Khieu Samphan who was taken away from his hospital bed after recovering from a stroke.

This cruel torture reminded me of when Hitler was still around with his concentration camps. It's disturbing to read about innocent people being tortured. This article was very detailed about who was being charged and it's about time the law in their country prosecuted them. I still don't understand why it took nearly 8 years to begin this case. Even with the interruptions, a criminal must be tried and be sent away. This was a shocking article to read and when I look or hear about Cambodia, the first thing that comes to my mind is poverty and beliefs.

Freed From Debt, a Hair Stylist Looks to a Brighter Future

Date: 11/20/07

Running out of money? Where do you go? Who do you turn to? A young woman, Aurea Casellas turned to Children's Aid Society who helped put her life back together. This is simply a story of a struggling single mother trying to make ends meet. She already has two daughters, one 18 another 4 years old. She is living in Harlem, and working as a an assistant at a hair salon only making $200.00 to support her family. She also had $270.00 of food stamps until her oldest daughter, Shauna stopped going to her G.E.D and cut it off. She was losing hope.

She started to fall behind on her bills and rent. As her years followed, being pregnant at 15 years old gave her the major experience. The father became involve with the law. She lost many opportunities down the road but then she found hope. She found someone, Ms. Penberg at a program and mentioned her debt situation. Ms. Penberg told her to apply the Children's Aid Society from the Neediest Cases Fund. She received a grant and became debt free. With that out of that, she gained her confidence back and is now a stylist at Jolie Femme and no more sweeping up trims of hair.

This article just surprised me because it's one of those aspiring pieces you come across to get some encouragement. It's not so newsworthy but I liked how the public is still able to focus on helping others. We all need a helping hand once here and there. The Children's Aid Society/Neediest Cases Fund is also provided by the New York Times. The New York Times helped this young lady out and that just shows how much more people need a hand to pull out of their black hole.

Wednesday, November 14, 2007

In Africa, Accusation of Witchcraft Leads to Abuse

Date: 11/14/07

Children practicing witchcraft? That is a very high superstition in parts of Angola, Congo and the Congo Republic. Among this, many children are believed to be witches and are confronted by their parents who would beat and abandon them afterwards. A young boy name, Domingos Pedro was only 12 years old when his father died. He was accused by his family that he murdered his own father. He was beat, slapped, drag and torture until he admit to what he did. A larger amount of 432 children and found on the streets.

In Angola people believe the witches can communicate with the world of the dead and eat the life of others bringing illness and death to others. This is not only towards children but also towards adults. But the belief in adults is very different because they believe they poison their own children and then having them sacrificing a family member. These children are left to feed and take care of themselves. Two shocking cases alerted officials of a mother who bleached her 14 year old daughter eye to get rid of the evil visions. Another, a father who put battery acid in his 12 year old son stomach because he was in fear that his son might be a witch.

Angola's government have tried to make awareness and campaigned in 2000 about child witches. The institute tries to teach these people that violence on your children should not be allowed. They cannot stop their belief but will attempt to show what is wrongful doing on a child. This is a drastic measure and there should be other people trying to help save these children. Children can not be left out on their own to live. The belief of witchcraft may strongly believed in Angola but the government should take action on those who commit strong acts against their children. No child should be torture and put through pain.

Patients Contract 2 Viruses From Donor in Transplants

Date: 11/14/07

Your life is put in the hands of doctors who are there to help and save your life. You need new organs and you have finally found one. Now you look ahead of your life telling yourself you have a second chance to live. But what happens when you receive your new organs and then you find out you contracted HIV and hepatitis C? All four patients in Chicago are left devastated. This case was first published by The Chicago Tribune yesterday. Two patients were infected at University of Chicago Medical Center, one at Rush University Medical Center and another at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. Officials would not release any information of the donor or what parts were donated to the patients.

The chief, Dr. Mills of University of Chicago Medical Center have said the diseases are left treatable. Just because it's left treatable doesn't make life better for the patients knowing they have a disease that can't be cure. The organ donor had passed away and the donor was tested negative on HIV and hepatitis C. The test they have conducted could not find the virus and just took the reaction of the body. It was still too recent to find out if she was HIV positive, it needs time to react. Supposedly the organ donor had a high risk which a close friend of the donor had provided information of a health and social history.

I was very into this article because it is such a health risk for everyone to know. We believe doctors are so trustworthy and we put our life in their hands to make sure they will keep us alive. But even with major mistakes of one donor organs have spread and affect four more people. So what are these patients left to do? Sue the hospital or the organization that provided the organs? Either way, it won't change the way they live their life. They would need to take multiple medication to keep the virus in control. When they thought they had a second chance to live, the are left to die slowly.

Friday, November 9, 2007

Running Out of Space of Park, and Places to Walk

Date: 11/09/2007

Having trouble finding parking in New York Ctiy? Tired of people blocking your way? Just when you thought it could get any worst, but it's not quite like that. The same problem is happening in Athens. No room for pedestrians, no space, so what's left to do? Start a protest! Mr. Pouliasis took action by placing one hand on the hood and the other on the windshield. He put damaged on the car and the owner came out furious. All he was trying to do was get rights for the people to have their walkway back. Nobody knew that the owner of the car was parked illegally.

The pedestrains are being disrepected because they do not have their rights to walk. They are being blocked by illegal parked cars. There are people in scooters storming down the streets where pedistrians struggle to have a decent walk. We thought it was bad in New York where everyone is in a rush to get from point A to point B, but here in Europe it is worst. Drivers are complaining there is not enough parking space so they have ruined the 50,000 steels columns put up for the 2004 Olympics. This is getting out of hand and people are saying there is no way to solve this situation.

People are being fed up and they don't want to cause any more damage. Will the traffic department ever come to a conclusion with the public? This article was well written and detailed. I liked how they were focused on what the drivers and pedestrians thought. I always thought nobody would be able to beat New York traffic or crazy morning and late rushes. It is still difficult to find parking in the city but in Athens this may be a crisis. They're losing capacity on parking but they would need to find areas to build parking lots. The more damaged the drivers cause, the more tickets, but fining these people won't stop them from cramping into one space.

Tuesday, November 6, 2007

A Foul Menace, Ready to Burst Again Onto Gaza

Date: 11/06/07

Your home is destroyed and now your left with nothing. What can you do now? It's been almost seven months when a massive rush of human waste attacked Gaza. It's a poor village and filled up four feet high. Five people have died including animals of, goats, sheep and chickens. About 1,000 people had to be evacuated. People are afraid to go back and people are left not knowing what to do. This started with a sewage overflow that spread 100 acres. People are fearing that another sewage disater might happen. They are trying to fix the problem by digging up outlet ponds for the waste. It's more difficult because more waste are coming in than going out.

Israel is making it harder to fix the problem. They have limited supplies coming in. The supplies they need such as, metal pipes, welding machines are not allow in and they believe it will help fix this problem. It will be more difficult because it is also reducing fuel, gasoline and electrical power due to rocket barrages. Everything is becoming backed up and people are using rain as their water support. They Red Cross are lending a hand to help create more pits after the Palestinian lost their rights to Hamas back in 2006.

I liked this article a lot because it was descriptive. It gave a lot of information on the outcome and what will happen on trying to improve sewage overflow. It's a major disater for these residents living in Gaza because they are left with absolutely nothing. They are in poverty and they are also in a country where war is going on and the government is trying to fight for power. They are being cut off from major sources which makes life that much harder. Will these countries ever be able to improve on how they live or will they be left living in fear and hope?

Sunday, November 4, 2007

New Jersey Man Is Killed in Midtown Poker Game

Date: 11/04/07

Do you have a gambling addiction? or maybe owe someone money? or tried to go to rehab but it didn't work out? Friday night, a mathematician, Frank DeSena was gunned down and killed in Manhattan. There have been no leads and police are investigating weather or not he was connected to the shooter. This took place at 251 Fifth Avenue at 28th street. Three masked men walked into the building and robbed the players for money. I believe there is connection between where the poker games were held and the masked men. How would these three men have known where this location is and what floor?

Police have not arrested anyone but are reviewing surveillance camera to see if they can get the suspects. They are still not sure who was in charge of the poker games. Although it's legal to play poker for money, maybe the suspects had a dispute with one of the players. It's illegal to hold an organization and profit from it. At this location, players were charged $5 every half-hour. Some of the players have said Mr. DeSena is not the type to pick a fight with someone. Poker was a hobby. Out of all reasons, he might have just been killed for being there the wrong time at the wrong place. One of the tenant said, they were hiring security to watch building to make sure who was going in and out.

This article gave a lot of details and also interviewed the players. I wanted more facts from the police on how they will go about this case. I want to think of it as a gambling addiction or maybe Frank DeSena got too deep into the game. For now it just seems these three masked men have studied the location and planned a robbery. Hopefully, this story will have a lead and find out who the killers are. It seems more to it than people playing poker and having fun.

Friday, November 2, 2007

Rules Lower Prison Terms In Sentence For Crack

Date: 11/02/07

Reducing sentences for criminals? Should that be allow? A criminal will always be a criminal. A new effect went in yesterday and the government is looking into if they should decrease the sentences for crack cocaine offenders. Instead of 10 years and 1 month, it might go down to 8 years and 10 months. Since the prison are becoming overcrowded, the United States Sentencing Commission are figuring out a way to apply this new guideline. I don't think they should reduce any sentence for anyone. The famous quote, "If you do the crime, you pay the time." If crack cocaine offenders are able to get less time, what happens to other drug offenders? Shouldn't the same rule apply?

The commission stated in a letter that if this guideline is passed, our communities would be put in danger and have a major affect on the judicial system. The American Bar Association this will result to "cleaner and more uniform decisions". I'm not sure why or how the commission came about this. If a criminal was in prison for marajuana and that particular found out about this guideline, he should've just been charged with crack cocaine if that will help him or her get out earlier.

I thought the article was detailed enough but I wanted to hear more from the commission office. Maybe the writer could've interviewed a few crack cocaine offenders. I wanted to have a better understanding of the whole prcoess and who came about this decision.

Sunday, October 28, 2007

Ellis Island’s Forgotten Hospital

Date: 10/26/07

Haunted? Scared? Spooky? Should be, on Ellis Island had a busy 22 building hospital from 1902-1930. Ellis Island is known for millions of people immigranting to the U.S. This hospital has taken care of so many people. This hospital was abandones for two years until Lorie Conway got to document the hospital. She dug through history to find out all the information she can.

A non-profit organization, Save Ellis Island is trying to save the abandoned hospital and reopen hisotry. She interviewed many family memebers and immigrants also talking about how this place and other hospitals are haunted. But during entry to this hospital years ago, many people were stripped down for a physical, some would be confused and not know what's going on. Some family members were seperated. In 1914, 10,000 patients were treated in 75 different countries.

Many records were lost and Ms. conway hopes her film will lead her to find more clues on the history of this hospital. I believed this article was very well written. It was detailed from beginning to end. The writer focused a lot on the past which was good because there were intervews of patients and what they had to go through. The documentary was sent to PBS and hopefully the film will be seen.

Thursday, October 25, 2007

3-Way Battles Again Jolt Eastern Congo

Date: 10/25/07

A country left in poverty and not much to look forward to. This misery that are leaving these people and young children to move away from violence. A fight broke out this weekend involving Congolese government and two militias. Congo is a violent city and it's a killing zone. People are left desperate and have no where to go. The battle between Congloness Army and Laurent Nkunda are left accusing one another of helping the Hutu militias. I feel like this is a mafia war where everyone is fighting over power. Congo's president, Joseph Kabila tried to make peace with Mr. Nkunda and right after that Mr. Kabila made a threat to have his troops turn over their weapons.

I feel like this is a game and putting the whole country in danger. This all began back in 1994 Hutu killed thousands of Tutsi in Rwanda. Now the Hutu militias have formed again and the United Nations are blaming them for beginning a battle. People and especially have been terrorized. Women are also giving birth on the road. Then comes in the Mai-Mai which are Conglonese militanmen. They believe they will be bulletproof if they rubbed oil and take antibiotics. They are a strong and will not back down.

I don't believe the writer talked enough about what happen in 1994 and how this battle began. He could've been more descriptive. All the writer talked about was who was battling who and who they were. A country left with almost nothing, and now it's being corrupted by militias.

Friday, October 19, 2007

Thai Police Arrest Pedophile Suspect

Date: 10/19/07

New technology, the famous creation of worldwide internet and also the most dangerous place to meet. An unknown stranger behind the screen pretending to be someone else. One may think, he's a respectful guy, but not a lot will know he's a pedophile who's been abusing children in Asia. The internet lets you create a whole new identity for yourself.

In Thailand, police arrested Christopher Paul Neil, after having pictures surf over the internet of him faceless abusing & sexually assaulting boys in Vietnam and Cambodia. Police used high tech to trace Mr. Neil actions on the internet. He has been living in Asia for five years teaching English in, Thailand, Vietnam and South Korea. He would be prosecuted in Thailand but after will be sent back to Canada where he will be sentenced. Canada is also looking into his previous jobs as a teacher but then asked to leave Roman Catholic elementary school because he wasn't qualify.

Many pedophiles have been going out of the country to become a English teacher and using it as a bait to lure children into trusting them. But it's not only foreigners that abuse children, 90% are abused by locals. The young boy made then complaint saying a Thai man lured him to Mr. Neil's apartment. Two other boys also came forward giving more information. Newspaper also printed postings from his Myspace.

I don't believe the reporter gave enough information about Mr. Neils. They should've investigated more on the boys who came forward. All I read was Mr. Neils jumping from country to country. I wanted this article to be more detailed since the internet and pedophiles have became a known couple. The law in other countries aren't as aware and strict as the U.S. There will never be an end to all these pedophiles assaulting these young kids, there's no stopping them.

Wednesday, October 17, 2007

Lifers as Teenagers, Now Seeking Second Chance

Date: 10/17/07

A young girl at the age of 14 year olds took 2 lives away and attempted to kill her own sister. Does she deserve a second chance? Ashley Jones helped her boyfriend kill her aunt and grandfather. She also put her grandmother, Mary Nalls in a coma but she still stands by her granddaughter side. Ms. Nalls defends her granddaughter, now 22 years old believing she deserves a second chance. She says, “If children are under age, sometimes they’re not responsible for what they do.” She's only protecting her but at the same time she is a murderer. As taunting as it may be for her, Ms. Jones deserves the same punishment as anyone else.

Laura Poston, the judge who sentenced Ms. Jones believes if she is on parole she will commit more murderers. An active child and to have a mind set out to kill four people should not have parole. She will be a danger to her own family and her own family refuse to foresee what she has done. Some experts like Bryan Stevenson, the executive director of the Equal Justice Initiative believe there is also hope. In this case, I don't see hope for a criminal. Maybe if it was my own child I would have a different point of view.

Latest research also proved 59% of 2,200 prisoners have no parole and are younger than 17 years old that have never convicted a previous crime. And 26% were involved in a murdered but never committed to one. I will contradict my point because those who don't have previous records and depending on their crime should have parole. Those are the ones that have hope for a life. But someone like Ashley Jones to attack and murder her own family members, will not.

Saturday, October 13, 2007

Uncertainty for an Orphan Claims in Two Adoptions

Date: 10/12/07

Saving a child's life is one of the best gift you can give him or her. But what do you when a couple adopted the child two different times? Who gets custody of the child? In a battle between Elizabeth Roth Johnson and Dr. Lionel Bissoon who both adopted a Cambodian boy, Rath Chan now name William. For now, Ms. Johnson has custody.

She adopted William a year and half ago through Manhattan Surrogates Court but supposedly also named Dr. Bissoon the child's father. The lawyer, Bonnie Robin for Dr. Bissoon claims this was a fraud because Ms. Johnson never mentioned to him that he was the father. The court has ruled that Dr. Bissoon has adopted William in a full legal process in Cambodia. Ms. Johnson ignored the process of the adoption while she did it in New York. At the same time she believes Dr. Bissoon is using the child to get money.

Dr. Bissoon wants joint custoday and hasn't seen William since December, 2005 due to a fight with Ms. Johnson. In this type of stituation, you can't really tell who's lying. Ms. Johnson seems to be hiding a few facts from the case and making it a longer process to come to a conclusion. Ms. Johnson told Dr. Bissoon that she found his son and even looked like him. But never before have they ever discussed adoption.

In the battle of this five year old child, I believe they should have joint custody. Do whatever they can in the best interest of William. He should have a father and mother, not a single parent raising him. It's a wonderful gift that they save this child life but now they are putting the child in a messy custody battle.

Friday, October 5, 2007

Paintball Accident Made Him a Widower, and Then a Crusader

Date: 10/5/07

Paintballing? It's fun but at the same time very violent. Many of my friends have gone to play and when they come back, all they show me are bruises. Some have asked me to play but it's too risky for me. You need lots of protection and layers just to be safe and i'm not up for that.

A 14 year old accidently killed Colette Contois as she was watching in a pinic area. He was miguided and the small paintball bullet hit her head. She was left unconscious and died at the scene. Not too long ago a 15 year old died in Washington. Mr. Contois is fighting for awareness trying to make the sport more safer. This game is like fighting a war. The valve and cylinder manufacturers had known of this danger.

Manufacturers and paintball centers are trying to address the safety issues. Such as, spoting lose valves, every five years you would need to replace the valves, and unscrew their guns to check their gas cylinders. The owner of the park where Colette Contois died has closed down his park. He gave it up and now he's a carpenter.

I see the fun and adrenaline rush but at the same time so many are risking their lives. That one bullet can do a lot of damage. I believe they should have an age limit and sign an agreement knowing the responsibilities. Nowadays trying to address important issue and passing a bill can take forever.

Three Teenagers Die in a Car Crash in Connecticut

Date: 10/5/07

This story is like any other drunk driving teenage story but at the same time I can relate to it. I was in a car and someone I know was driving home under the influence of alcohol. I tried to keep that person awake but at the same time he kept swirling in and out of the lane. We were worried about cops being on the highway. Since then, we always told ourselves, we're not going to drive until we know for sure we're okay or simply pay for a cab home. Now everyday in the newspaper, there's always an article talking about how one teenager died or 2 and so on. It never really hits them until someone close to them dies.

A reckless driver, 17 year old Anthony Apruzzese died along with his 14 year old sister and a 15 year old friend. An investigation being conducted saying the speed limit was raised to 40 miles per hour but he went over. The owner of the boat tried to move his car but it was too late. The Subaru crashed into the boat.

Anthony had a past with traffic problem, didn't put on his seatbelt and a life threatening accident. He talked about the accident on his facebook which left him and a friend hospitalized. This was due to drunk driving but the department of motor vehicles only suspended his license for 90 days. Even after his suspension he got pulled over again for refusing to stop at a stop sign. He only had his license for a year and caused this much damage. The state should've revoked his license. Parents of Anthony & Jessica Apruzzese wanted to be left alone.

Young teenagers nowadays don't understand how dangerous it is to drive under the influence of alcohol. For Anthony Apruzzese he should've realize to drive more carefully after being hospitalize and putting another life in danger. I guess it didn't hit him yet. Now he killed himself, his sister, & a friend.

Thursday, September 27, 2007

Man With a Rifle Is Arrested on St. John's Campus

Date: 9/27/07

When will the terror on campus stop? Not so long ago at Virginia Tech, 32 students die. Now someone bringing a rifle to school is just another crisis we have to worry about in New York. Yesterday, a 22 year old student at St. John University in Queens was arrested for carrying a .50 caliber rifle to school and wearing a mask. Luckily St. John's school officials captured him and no one was hurt. The school sent out text messages to students to alert them about the gunman and to stay out. Students were panicking, trying to lock themselves inside and build protection around them.

The school did not let anybody out until after 5:30P.M. Anxious parents and loved ones waited outside the school until further notices. This just feels like another terrorist attack waiting to happen. The one carrying the rifle, Omeash Hiraman look like a normal student going to school. But that's just base on our assumption. Looks can be deceiving and his parents have spoken out saying this was due to medication. Mr. Hiraman has just got out of scoliosis surgery and is confused.

The school handle this very well and Mr. Chris Benson was the one who held Omeash Hiraman against the wall. A neighbor of Omeash Hiraman said "he was all about books". As well as the school handle the situation, I still believe campus security could be better. One man just had courage to stop him but if no one did, what could've happen? The gunman lawyer is simply just coming up with excuses for his behavior. After Columbine, 9/11, Virginia Tech shooting, a society we live in has now been corrupted by killers.

Wednesday, September 26, 2007

Sect Leader Is Convicted as an Accomplice to Rape

Date: 9/26/07

How much can you commit to your religion? Most say, Mormon is a cult. Washington do not accept what goes on in Utah because of how their marriage work. Husband can have multiple wives.

A polygamist leader, Warren Jeffs was found guilty. What was the reason? In a religious act, he arranged a marriage with a 14 year old girl & her cousin who was 19 at the time. She went against Warren Jeffs and testify in court that he forced her. She doesn't believe it's about religion any more, simply just child abuse. It was her duty as a Mormon believer. Charges have not been made on her cousin. These believers believe this is what God want them to do. They will still arrange underage marriages.

Warren Jeffs also face charges in Arizona for the same reason. He was on F.B.I. Most Wanted List. Some fear Mr. Jeffs power over the community. I think Mormon believers have taken their religion so over their head, they have cut lose with the outside world. Although it took jurys a while to come up with the results, he will be sentenced to life in prison.

I don't agree with how Mormon believers practice their religion. I don't believe in polygamy & sharing husband. They hold themselves as a community and forget about everything else in the world. In my mind they can technically be considered Amish under some similiarities. It's a cult and the United States can not stop them but when will arranging marriages with underage girls stop? How many more prophets do we need to prosecute?

Thursday, September 20, 2007

M.T.A Makes Deal for Cellphone Service in Underground Stations

Date: 9/20/07

Connection underground? Possible? Maybe in just another few years! M.T.A is working up a deal to make that work. This will cost up to almost $200 million. This sounds like a good idea but at the same time I feel like they're a little behind with technology. There are stations that already have service due to good reception. They will install wires for the connection but once you go under the tunnel, your cut off. Is there a point spending so much money for something that can happen for good service? Yes, maybe it's safer and quicker to get in contact to love ones but will everyone be satisfy with the outcome?

One New Yorker thought it was unnecessary for the project. He believes it might be another target for terrorists to plot bombings. I agree because it's just another simple way to contact their members to signals. There are pros and cons to weigh out. Although there have been many bidders for this deal, I believe they should put their money for better security.

In Prosecution of Gang A Chilling Adversary: The Code of the Streets

Date: 9/19/07

When will the violence stop? Everyday innocent lives are taken away by rival gang members. There is no need for gangs to corrupt these neigborhoods. But who can stop them? We can't take away their rights because the second amendment states, "Right to keep and bear arms".

Just three years ago, members of the Latin Kings killed an innocent women, Jeri Lynn Dotson. She witnessed a crime they had committed and they needed to cover their trail. It's getting dangerous and we the people are becoming powerless. Jose Negrete a Latin King leader will stand his ground and position. He is on trial for ordering Angel Hernandez to kill Ms. Dotson. Roberto Rodriguez was a former leader of Latin Kings but agreed to testify against Jose Negrete to have his sentence reduced. Words spread and eventually he was burned with hot water and baby oil.

Ms. Dotson had also put herself in this position. She witness the kidnapping of Alex Ruiz another gang, Netas. She dated someone from Netas and Latin Kings weren't sure if they could trust her. To hold their silence, they murdered her. The population of these gangs are growing and the market is helping them. Just a few months ago, the New York Post published an article that New Era were producing hats for gang members. Depending on which gang your in, a color bandana was wrapped around the hate. Such as, red for Bloods, blue for Crips and yellow for Latin Kings also embroidered with stones to form a crown.

Will law enforcement ever be able to bring down these gang members? Maybe these gangs are in it just for protection but they are also putting their family lives in danger. There is no stopping these people, its just all related to money, drugs & violence. There will be no end.

Sunday, September 16, 2007

Cash to Get By is Still Pawnshop's Stock in Trade

Date: 9/14/07

What is the quickest way to get money? Pawning your goods! A lot of people are beginning to pawning their goods just to pay off debts or support their family. Most pawnshops in NYC are most common among theives and addicts. Some are in much crisis such as Ms. Maynard who needed the money to feed her kids. She spent all her money for her kids to go to Disney World. In my view, I would've thought these pawnshops were carrying items that were stolen.

A aqaintance of mine have been in a situation where her home was robbed. The two robbers took all her belongings including her family jewls. They had pounded all her goods at the shop. It was their simple way to get quick cash. She never got any of the items back.

One particular store in the Bronx call, Mr. Pawnbroker have customers going there to exchange their goods for money to pay off bills. These people in the area have to live on paycheck to paycheck. It's all to maintain a stable life. Although this pawnship in the Bronx is popular, the owner, Mr. Rosado still need to face the facts. Having to put up surveillance incase danger occurs. He worked his a way into the business to become co-owner of the shop.

Mr. Rosado has his eyes out for those who he believes stole items from others. He would refuse them if he doesn't trust them. You can also put a down payment for four months on an item. Unlike other states with a higher interest fee, New York only charge $19 of interest. This may be a someone's only option to give up a valuable to pay off a simple cable bill. It's life of New York, where everything is becoming so expensive. Everyone need to hold a support to live on.

Thursday, September 13, 2007

Tempting Diners in Queens With a Pirated "El Cantante"

Date: 9/11/07

Selling bootlegs, a very common thing upon asians. I would know, I see it all over the place. One of the quickest way to earn money. Although the product may not be in the best quality but if you sell it cheaper than the original, why not? When I'm in Flushing, Queens or Chinatown, Manhattan, I see ladies trying to hustle tourists. It's not even just DVDs! It's knockoff handbags, sneakers, watches, anything you can think of. Prosecutors bust down on one company, another company will open up with the same products.

As said, that ladies go up and down Roosevelt Avenue in Queens selling the famous movie, "El Cantante" staring Marc Anthony & Jennifer Lopez. The DVD cost $5.00. These asian women would go around Corona to sell them in restuarants. In the newspapers, they carry shopping bags. But from my facts, I know that law enforcements are becoming more strict on counterfeits. They would begin to wear purses or big handbags and carry them. It's a disguise. They carry the releases of "The Simpson", "Rush Hour 3", etc.

The Motion Picture Associates lose lots of money. About $903 million. That's a big cost to their industry. But to these people, it's quick money, and they need to make a living. Trying to pass new laws does not stop these people from selling. One new way to try to increase sales back is releasing the movie and dvd at the same time.

I believe that there's really no stop into counterfeits. If people are buying and they don't have to pay the actual full price, why not? It's a good deal, right? Well in my opinion, I don't believe in buying fakes. Yes, the prices are different, but I prefer better quality. Some people may not be able to afford it. When I see cops on the streets on 34th Street in Manhattan especially, they pass by as if nobody is doing anything illegal. If I see that they don't care as much, why bother?

Friday, September 7, 2007

Cabs Are on Strike, but Are on the Street, Too

Date: 9/07/07

Where did all the yellow cabs go? Most of them went on a strike! This has affected many New Yorkers and how they will be getting to work. The one who's benefitting from this strike are cab drivers themselves. Those who stayed behind got double the pay then they usually do. Almost every Saturday afternoon, outside Penn Station I see many people lining up waiting for a taxi. For those who went on a strike made things more complicated.

The strike was against putting high tech video and fare system in the cabs. Many New Yorkers were fustrated about having to pay double the price. They decided why not just take the bus. Although Mayor Bloomberg declared that 75% of drivers went back to work, there was still a confusion. Nobody knew if people were driving or were they still on strike. With the new updated technology in cabs, it's an increase for customers. I believe this is better because drivers won't have to cheat our money. There will be a navigation system to show customers the route they are taking. Drivers will be recieving 3.5%.

The GPS system will also monitor how fast and where they are going. Customers will have a much better gain. This would mean that taxi drivers would have to work extra hard to earn back the same amount as they did before the put in the new systems.

Thursday, September 6, 2007

As Prostitues Turn to Craigslist, Law Enforcement Takes Notice

Date: 09/06/07

People just don't get it do they? Ever since technology got better, the internet came in, people don't see how easy it is to get caught. Nassau police department just caught eight women in a prostitution sting. I feel people have the desire to engage in sexual activities that they don't fear the law. They are so trustworthy of those on the opposite screen. Craigslist is known for ads and job listings. But now it's being taking advantage by escort services which always means so much more.

They have made multiple arrests. For over a year now, they have been closely focusing on ads posted on Craigslist. They even post false ads trying to catch those involve. It has been tracked down in Seattle, Florida & California.

As big as Craigslist is, law enforcements are accusing the website of holding a prostitution ring. President, Jim Buckmaster saying he shouldn't be held responsible because he cannot monitor the site 24/7. Although he has 24 members on staff, they cannot focus on every listing. I agree & disagree at the same time because listings go up and out every hour. At the same time maybe someone should just focus on that particular category.

These ads are making prostitutions easier. They can set up hotels and those who agree to this are in it just for the money. Especially those coming to Long Island knowing there is money there. Law enforcements are trying to put a stop to this illegal operations. Not so long ago, Senator of Idaho, Larry Craig pleaded guilty to attempt to have sexual activity in a restroom at an airport. As many complaints have been said, they began to investigate. There was a specific signal you give in the stall and he happened to signal a undercover cop. As much as he denied the charges, engaging in any sexual conduct in public is illegal. He decided to resigned as senator.

Prostitution is quick and easy money. Those who sell themselves are putting their lives in great danger. Even though enforcements have tighten on prostitution, how many men or women can they put away? There will never be an end to this.

Monday, September 3, 2007

At I.B.M. a Vacation Anytime, or Maybe No Vacation at All

Date: 8/31/07

I would love to have a job where I can take off wheneverI want. That is the ideal job isn't it? Well at I.B.M., employees are allow to go on vacation, skip a day just to hang around. But there's a catch. They would constantly need to check their emails & phone to see if they need to cut their vacation short. Even though the company don't keep track on who's taking more or less days off, the balance is still the same. Employees would still have to meet deadlines.

As good as it sound, would it be the best for you? For, Luis H. Rodrigues it probably is. He works from home or on the road and goes in the office once a week. He spends more time with his children. If I was a parent, I would rather take this position then have to work a 9-5 job. On the days your off you get to do whatever you want and the next thing you know , your back to work, the pressure is on again.

Even though I.B.M. don't keep track of employees records, there's still an expectation to meet. Regardless the time, you need to stay professional & still give it your best. Unlike other companies, they still keep records. Just recently, a man, John Halpin who worked for NYC school system just got fired. He decided to go in at his regualar time but leave earlier than usual. He left work early and went home while getting paid. This was all thanks to a GPS chip in his cellphone.

I.B.M. may have a good compromise with their employers but other companies need to be more secure about their workers. As I have read, the writer did state enough information but I wished the writer would've questioned the CEO of I.B.M. I wonder if the CEO knows that his own employers are doing this.

Friday, August 31, 2007

Virginia Tech Criticized for Actions in Shooting

Date: 8/30/07

My interest with this story is how students about the same age as me are so affected by this. School just started last week for Virginia Tech students and know they have to relive the horrific moment. I'm suprise that up until now, they still have not came to conclusion of reponsibilities. It amazes me how no one is standing in position to explain themselves. I find it that people are pointing figures at one another and staying in denial. It's just unprofessional and leaving parents & love ones grieving.

Should anybody be held responsible for the actions that occured in April, 2007? It states that lives could've been saved if they reached out to the students sooner. But what may be the reasons for officials not to close down the school? If a school is closed down, then they would lose money. I believe the counseling center and campus police should be held accountable. The killer, Seung-Hui Cho had attempted suicide but hasn't got the full help he needed. I don't understand why his parents were never notify of their own son mental issues. If he made an appointment at the counseling center where he got interviewed, where could've the record gone? Instead a judge made his decision. There were no one to follow up on him so how could've we known if he improved? He might need special treatment at another facility. Campus police knew of his previous behavior but information never got through campus workers.

Although he had his revenge on those who did no harm to him, what is the outcome? He got what he wanted. He wanted the attention, to be noticed and for people to listen. Even his English teacher at his middle school caught the attention that in his writing he wanted to repeat "Columbine". He was sent to see a psychiatrist which diagnosis him with selective mutism and depression. Should he have even been able to attend college? He shouldve recieved some type of weekly therapy treatment for his depression.

Furious parents of the victims are trying to find answers and understand how could one person could go on a rampage. He was a danger to everyone around him. He was tired of those around him. He was jealous of rich kids. I don't believe the writer for this article came to its full extent. Information are repeating and it doesn't explain much about what occured.

Tuesday, August 28, 2007

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